bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observer-Based

H

∞

Fuzzy Synchronization and Output Tracking Control of Time-Varying Delayed Chaotic Systems
Authors: Lin Kuan-Yi , Chiang Tung-Sheng , Chiu Chian-Song , Hu Wen-Fong , Liu Peter
Published: September 2021

Tracking control for the output using an observer-based

H

∞

fuzzy synchronization of time-varying delayed discrete- and continuous-time chaotic systems is proposed in this paper. First, from a practical point of view, the chaotic systems here consider the influence of time-varying delays, disturbances, and immeasurable states. Then, to facilitate a uniform control design approach for both discrete- and continuous-time chaotic systems, the dynamic models along with time-varying delays and disturbances are reformulated using the T-S (Takagi–Sugeno) fuzzy representation. For control design considering immeasurable states, a fuzzy observer achieves master-slave synchronization. Third, combining both a fuzzy observer for state estimation and a controller (solved from generalized kinematic constraints) output tracking can be achieved. To make the design more practical, we also consider differences of antecedent variables between the plant, observer, and controller. Finally, using Lyapunov’s stability approach, the results are sufficient conditions represented as LMIs (linear matrix inequalities). The contributions of the method proposed are threefold: (i) systemic and unified problem formulation of master-slave synchronization and tracking control for both discrete and continuous chaotic systems; (ii) practical consideration of time-varying delay, immeasurable state, different antecedent variables (of plant, observer, and controller), and disturbance in the control problem; and (iii) sufficient conditions from Lyapunov’s stability analysis represented as LMIs which are numerically solvable observer and controller gains from LMIs. We carry out numerical simulations on a chaotic three-dimensional discrete-time system and continuous-time Chua’s circuit. Satisfactory numerical results further show the validity of the theoretical derivations.
Effects of High Shearing Rates on the Shear Behavior of Saturated Loess Using Ring Shear Tests
Authors: Ma Jianquan , Zhao Xiaojie , Li Shibo , Duan Zhao
Published: September 2021

The shear behavior of saturated loess was examined by performing a series of ring shear tests with different shearing rates. The effects of shearing rates on the shear behavior of saturated loess with different normal stress are presented and discussed. The results showed that peak shear strength and steady-state shear strength were greater when the shearing rate was low and vice versa. Compared with high and low shearing rates, the maximum strength reduction ratios of peak shear strength and steady-state shear strength were 34.2% and 37.2%, respectively. The axial displacement during shearing was measured and was found to increase with increasing shear displacement in all tests. A comparison of sample height reduction (when the shear rate was stopped) found that the low shearing rate test sample underwent a much greater reduction than the high shearing rate test sample; however, the variation reduction range was within 4 mm. Monitoring the pore-water pressure during the shearing process revealed that it increased with shear displacement, and a higher excess pore-water pressure was generated within the shear zone during the fast-shearing process. Comparing the particle size distribution of the samples after the test and the original sample showed that the particles were crushed during the shearing process. The percentage that was finer than 0.005 mm increased with shearing rates and normal stress, and the soil structure implosion became more pronounced with increasing normal stress.
Construction of Music Teaching Evaluation Model Based on Weighted Naïve Bayes
Authors: Xia Xiongjun , Yan Jin
Published: September 2021

Evaluation of music teaching is a highly subjective task often depending upon experts to assess both the technical and artistic characteristics of performance from the audio signal. This article explores the task of building computational models for evaluating music teaching using machine learning algorithms. As one of the widely used methods to build classifiers, the Naïve Bayes algorithm has become one of the most popular music teaching evaluation methods because of its strong prior knowledge, learning features, and high classification performance. In this article, we propose a music teaching evaluation model based on the weighted Naïve Bayes algorithm. Moreover, a weighted Bayesian classification incremental learning approach is employed to improve the efficiency of the music teaching evaluation system. Experimental results show that the algorithm proposed in this paper is superior to other algorithms in the context of music teaching evaluation.
[Retracted] Construction of Community Life Service in the Sharing Economy Based on Deep Neural Network
Authors: Qu Di , Deng Dianya
Published: September 2021

Currently, the development of sharing economy and interconnection also has a profound impact on community life services. This study is based on the deep neural network theory, combined with the evolution mechanism of the commercial network of the community life service industry, link prediction theory, and the latest deep neural network algorithm, referring to the evolution model of merger and stripping, and the network structure is optimized on this basis. Through simulation experiments and result analysis, the model is used to deeply study the evolution trend and dynamics of the community life service business network from the perspective of quantitative analysis. Then the business network structure is optimized and development is promoted at the same time. At the same time, it can also upgrade those old scattered industries and provide theoretical and decision‐making guidance for the future transformation and upgrading of the innovative community life service industry.
An Industrial B‐Mode Phased Array Ultrasonic Imaging Reconstruction Algorithm Based on FRI Sampling
Authors: Dai Guangzhi , He Zhiyong , Lin Song
Published: September 2021

Firstly, a novel FRI sampling model has been proposed according to the characteristics of ultrasonic signals. The model has the advantages such as good stability, strong antinoise ability, simple circuit implementation, and fewer preconditions, compared to the traditional methods. Then, in order to verify the validity of the sampling model, the method is applied to B‐type ultrasonic imaging, and a B‐type phased array ultrasonic imaging algorithm based on FRI sampling model is proposed. Finally, the algorithm simulation experiment is designed, and the results show that the sampling point required by the proposed FRI sampling model is only 0.1% of the traditional B‐type phased array ultrasonic imaging method, and the sampling frequency of the proposed ultrasonic imaging algorithm is only 0.0077% of the traditional B‐type ultrasonic imaging method. Additionally, the experiment result indicates that this algorithm is more applicable to phased array ultrasonic imaging than the SOS filter is.
Bioactive Compounds from Agricultural Residues, Their Obtaining Techniques, and the Antimicrobial Effect as Postharvest Additives
Authors: Gomes-Araújo Rafael , Martínez-Vázquez Dolores Gabriela , Charles-Rodríguez Ana Verónica , Rangel-Ortega Sarahi , Robledo-Olivo Armando
Published: September 2021

Agricultural vegetable products always seek to meet the growing demands of the population; however, today, there are great losses in supply chains and in the sales stage. Looking for a longer shelf life of fruits and vegetables, postharvest technologies have been developed that allow an adequate transfer from the field to the point of sale and a longer shelf life. One of the most attractive methods to improve quality and nutritional content and extend shelf life of fruits and vegetables is the incorporation of bioactive compounds with postharvest technologies. These compounds are substances that can prevent food spoilage and the proliferation of harmful microorganisms and, in some cases, act as a dietary supplement or provide health benefits. This review presents an updated overview of the knowledge about bioactive compounds derived from plant residues, the techniques most used for obtaining them, their incorporation in edible films and coatings, and the methods of microbial inhibition.
Candidaturas presidenciales
Authors: Borges Humberto
Published: September 2021

En las últimas semanas se han desarrollado las esperadas primarias, consultas ciudadanas e inscripciones de candidatos de los variados pactos y alianzas políticas del país. En los temas tributarios existen diversas propuestas e ideas, las cuales nos permiten visualizar el panorama futuro del país en esta materia. A continuación describiremos algunas ideas y propuestas tributarias de las tres alianzas que tienen posibilidades de llegar al palacio de La Moneda. Continuar leyendo...
Dirección del Trabajo
Authors: Gutiérrez Francisca
Published: September 2021

El día 4 de agosto 2021 falleció María Ester Feres, abogada que ocupó el cargo de Directora nacional de la Dirección del Trabajo (DT) entre 1994 y 2004. Feres jugó un rol clave en el desarrollo de este organismo público y la defensa de los derechos laborales en el país, tal como ha sido reconocido por distintos representantes del mundo laboral. En homenaje a su persona, esta columna analiza el rol que juega la DT en el sistema laboral chileno. Continuar leyendo...
Dyslipidemia in Chronic Kidney Disease: Contemporary Concepts and Future Therapeutic Perspectives
Authors: Theofilis Panagiotis , Vordoni Aikaterini , Koukoulaki Maria , Vlachopanos Georgios , Kalaitzidis Rigas G.
Published: September 2021

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an increasingly prevalent disease state met with great morbidity and mortality primarily resulting from the high incidence of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Therapeutic strategies in this patient population aim at controlling modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, including dyslipidemia. Summary: In this review article, we first provide the latest pathophysiologic evidence regarding the altered dyslipidemia pattern in CKD, followed by its contemporary management according to the latest guidelines. Moreover, we present the current progress regarding the emerging therapeutic strategies. Key Messages: The presence of renal impairment leads to alterations in cholesterol structure, metabolism, and reverse transport paired with increased oxidative stress. Statins remain the cornerstone of dyslipidemia management in patients with kidney dysfunction who are at risk for cardiovascular events. However, their efficacy is debatable in end-stage renal disease under renal replacement therapy. Therefore, novel treatment approaches aiming at hypertriglyceridemia, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9, and lipoprotein(a) are under rigorous investigation while the research of gut microbiome might provide additional mechanistic and therapeutic insight.
Drug-Induced Kidney Injury Caused by Osimertinib: Report of a Rare Case
Authors: Niitsu Takayuki , Hayashi Terumasa , Uchida Junji , Yanase Takafumi , Tanaka Satoshi , Kuroyama Munenori , Ueno Kiyonobu
Published: September 2021

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) that target the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) have shown highly favourable outcomes in patients with advanced-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The adverse effects of EGFR-TKIs are generally less severe than those of conventional cytotoxic therapies. We report a patient with NSCLC who presented with acute kidney injury associated with biopsy-proven acute tubular injury during osimertinib treatment and whose renal function recovered after reducing the osimertinib dose. A 61-year-old male smoker complained of dyspnoea on exertion for 1 month before his visit to the medical centre. He was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma of the left lower lobe (cT4N3M1a, stage IVA) and was positive for an EGFR mutation (exon 19 deletion). Osimertinib was initiated at 80 mg/day. At treatment initiation, the patient’s serum creatinine level was 0.64 mg/dL, with microscopic haematuria; by day 83, this level had increased to 1.33 mg/dL, with proteinuria. On day 83, we reduced the osimertinib dose to 40 mg/day and performed a kidney biopsy on day 98. The histological diagnosis was tubular injury with IgA deposition. Based on the clinical course and histological findings, we speculated that the kidney injury was associated with osimertinib. After dose reduction, the patient’s serum creatinine level decreased to 1.07 mg/dL, and proteinuria disappeared. He maintained a partial response for >6 months after osimertinib administration. We report the first case of biopsy-proven mild IgA deposition, crescent formation, and tubular injury probably caused by osimertinib and demonstrate how reducing the osimertinib dose could strike a balance between its anti-cancer efficacy and adverse effects.
Serum Periostin Predicts Wheezing Exacerbation: A Prospective Study in Preschool Children with Recurrent Wheezing
Authors: Yooma Pailin , Manuyakorn Wiparat , Sawatchai Adithep , Jotikasthira Wanlapa , Kiewngam Potjanee , Kanchongkittiphon Watcharoot
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Wheezing is a common problem in preschool children. Currently, there are no reliable biomarkers that can predict subsequent wheezing in preschool children. This study aimed to compare serum periostin levels between preschool children with and without recurrent wheezing and investigate its utility for predicting acute wheezing exacerbation. Methods: Children aged 2–5 years with recurrent wheezing and healthy control children were enrolled. They were evaluated for serum periostin level at enrollment and subsequently followed for wheezing episodes in a 1-year prospective study. Results: A total of 122 children were enrolled. Children in the recurrent wheezing group (n = 80) had a greater median serum periostin level (1,122.32 pg/mL [<10–6,978.93]) than that of the healthy control group (n = 40) (<10 pg/mL [<10–2,116.69]), p value = 0.006. After 1-year follow-up, subjects who experienced subsequent wheezing exacerbation episodes had a greater median of periostin level (5,321 pg/mL) compared with those with no exacerbation (<10 pg/mL), p value = 0.014. ROC curve analysis revealed that the level of serum periostin >1,200 pg/mL, corresponding to 78.9% sensitivity and 64.6% specificity, with an AUC of 0.701, p value = 0.009, could be a predictor for acute wheezing exacerbation within 1 year. Besides, subjects with serum periostin >1,200 pg/mL had greater odds of subsequent wheezing episodes compared with those with lower levels of serum periostin (adjusted odds ratio 10.0, 95% confidence interval: 2.3–43.5). Conclusions: Preschool children with recurrent wheezing have a greater serum periostin level than healthy control. Serum periostin may be a valuable biomarker for predicting acute wheezing exacerbations in the following year.
Social and Racial Justice as Fundamental Goals for the Field of Human Development
Authors: Killen Melanie , Yee Kathryn M. , Ruck Martin D.
Published: September 2021

Social justice refers to promoting fairness, equality, equity, and rights across multiple aspects of society, including economic, educational, and workforce opportunities. A number of scholars across academia have called for a greater incorporation of social and racial justice approaches to the field of human development and have asserted that social justice constitutes both a theoretical framework as well as a set of hypotheses to investigate and understand the human condition. The emergence, experience, and awareness of social injustice needs to be better understood from a psychological and developmental perspective. Four areas that reflect theoretical changes in human development research are featured in this issue: (a) socialization theories about race; (b) ethnic/racial identity and development; (c) developmental social identity and moral reasoning; and (d) lay theories and social essentialism. Childhood is a period of intense change and development. Human development research is uniquely positioned to promote change that will contribute to challenging social and racial injustice.
Aircraft Control System Using Model Predictive Controller
Authors: Chrif Labane , Meguenni Kadda Zemalache
Published: September 2021

This paper concerns the application of model-based predictive control to the longitudinal and lateral mode of an aircraft in a terrain following task. The predictive control approach was based on a quadratic cost function and a linear state space prediction model with input and state constraints. The optimal control was obtained as the solution of a quadratic programming problem defined over a receding horizon. Closed-loop simulations were carried out by using the linear aircraft model. This project thesis provides a brief overview of Model Predictive Control (MPC).A brief history of industrial model predictive control technology has been presented first followed by a some concepts like the receding horizon, moves etc. which form the basis of the MPC. It follows the Optimization problem which ultimately leads to the description of the Dynamic Matrix Control (DMC).The MPC presented in this report is based on DMC. After this the application summary and the limitations of the existing technology has been discussed and the next generation MPC, with an emphasis on potential business and research opportunities has been reviewed. Finally in the last part we generate Matlab code to implement basic model predictive controller and introduce noise into the model.
Vehicle Sensor Self-Powered Technology Research Based on Piezoelectric
Authors: Ying-Jun Sang , Shangguang Wu , Man Li , Yang Gao , Haoxiang Li , Fei Huang , Yun-Rong Hao , Yuan-Yuan Fan
Published: September 2021

As a result of the electric vehicles popularity and the development of vehicles intelligent, the number of vehicle sensors surge, meanwhile, many defects of traditional energy supply are increasingly prominent, such as pollution and maintenance difficulties. Taking into account the vehicle vibration exist everywhere, we use the piezoelectric technology to collect vibration energy, and designs a piezoelectric vibration energy harvesting system to be used to solve the energy problem of micro-power sensor. In this paper, the system structure and the theoretical model are analyzed, and the mathematical model of the system vibration frequency and the piezoelectric output have been put forward, then a piezoelectric energy harvesting device is designed on the basis of simulation analysis. Experiments have been done to test the performance of its power generation in the case of resonance. The results showed that the theoretical model proposed in this paper can be a good predictor of the output characteristics of the system. As the resonance frequency is 16.5 Hz, acceleration is 0.5g, the maximum open circuit voltage of the system obtained is 3.5 volts, the optimum load resistance is 425kΩ, and the vibration energy collection device maximum load power is 14 uW. Conclusion: Greater energy could be caught to meet the vehicle sensor power supply needs with the use of super capacitor.
The Effect of IT on After-sales Service in Small- and Medium-Sized Industries
Authors: Özdemir Abdulkadir , Asil Hasan
Published: September 2021

In a world where competition is based on quality of service, quality distance between products becomes smaller day by day. Nowadays, after-sales service can be considered as an inseparable part of industrial products. The development of IT has paved the way for offering better services for customers in a shorter time in a way that these days it is called the electronic after-sales service. Based on this, the present research has analyzed the effect of using IT on after-sales service in small- and medium-sized industries. This research is a causal or a posteriori one which tries to answer the question of whether the use of IT can influence the quality of after-sales service offered by small- and medium-sized industries. According to results with a certainty level of %5, IT influences the accessibility of after-sales service in small- and medium-sized industries.
O capital financeiro vai ao paraíso: Bitcoin, fintech 3.0 e a massificação do homem endividado
Authors: Marchi Leonardo Gabriel De
Published: September 2021

O artigo analisa a criptomoeda Bitcoin como parte de um novo setor do mercado financeiro, a fintech 3.0. Subscrevendo a tese de Maurizio Lazzarato de que a categoria do homem endividado seria a forma de governamentalidade do capitalismo contemporâneo, discute-se de que modo a Bitcoin funciona como um vetor de expansão a uma parcela da população da lógica social do endividamento. A princípio, proponho pensar a criptomoeda como mídia. A seguir, apresento uma genealogia das ideologias que animaram a criação do Bitcoin, a fim de demonstrar os valores libertários que nortearam o desenho dessa nova tecnologia. Por fim, discuto como a fintech 3.0 difunde a lógica social do homem endividado por meio de dispositivos digitais pessoais.
Arquétipo e catarse nas narrativas audiovisuais
Authors: Anaz Sílvio Antonio Luiz
Published: September 2021

O clímax em filmes e séries televisivas é construído pela combinação de imagens e sons que impactam emocionalmente a audiência, gerando a catarse. O efeito catártico é peça-chave em gêneros como aventura, western e horror. Este artigo analisa o papel que o arquétipo tem na catarse em narrativas audiovisuais ao operar como acionador de emoções. Articulam-se as teorias sobre catarse (Aristóteles, Jauss) e arquétipos (Jung, Durand) para estabelecer as relações entre esses elementos e entender como operam a partir de exemplos de filmes e séries. Resultados mostram a oposição arquetípica herói-monstro como gatilho emocional nas catarses e a relação entre imagens arquetípicas e contexto sócio-histórico em cenas catárticas.
Current and Capital Account Dynamics in India: An Empirical Analysis of the Post-Reform Period
Authors: Khan Tanveer Ahmad
Published: September 2021

This article analyses the dynamics between current account (CA) and capital account in post-liberalisation India. Contemporaneous occurrence of CA deficit along with capital account surplus suggests the possible causal relationship between the two accounts. The theoretical debate around capital account liberalisation (KAL) is developed with the intention to lend support to empirical results for policy formulation. The analysis of arguments for and against KAL liberates us in interpreting the empirical results. Within the framework of KAL, this article proceeds to estimate the relationship between current and capital account. A set of econometric tests are performed on an Indian quarterly data over the period from 1996 to 2018. Econometric analysis reveals that capital account affects CA negatively. Short-run capital and debt flow also affect CA negatively, while foreign direct investment (FDI) affects it positively. We find debt flow to be an important factor, contributing to CA imbalance. Such dynamics is critical for any decision about KAL. From the analysis, it is observed that India needs to encourage FDI, while maintaining strict control over short-term capital, which is highly disruptive, and proceed cautiously towards full KAL.

JEL Codes: C32, F21, F32
Expressivity of Interleukin-8 and Gastric Cancer Prognosis Susceptibility: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Zhenzhen , Hou Yuhan , Yao Zhen , Zhan Yanyan , Chen Wenyue , Liu Yulong
Published: September 2021

Background

The relationship between interleukin-8 (IL-8) expression and the prognosis of gastric cancer (GC) patients has been reported, but the results are contradictory.

Aim

To investigate the effect of IL-8 expression on the prognosis of patients with GC.

Method

A comprehensive search strategy was used to search the PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases. The total survival time was analysed using the RevMan 5.4 software. Through extensive search and meta-analysis of relevant studies, studies examining the relationship between IL-8 expression and prognosis in patients with GC were conducted to obtain more accurate estimates.

Findings

Eight studies (1843 patients) were included. The combined results of all the studies showed that high expression of IL-8 was a risk factor for poor prognosis in patients with GC (hazard ratio (HR): 2.08; 95% CI: 1.81–2.39). Sensitivity analysis suggested that the pooled HR was stable, and omitting a single study did not change the significance of the pooled HR. Funnel plots revealed no significant publication bias in the meta-analysis.

Conclusion

High IL-8 expression could be a negative prognostic biomarker for patients with GC.
Potential Socioeconomic Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Neural Development, Mental Health, and K-12 Educational Achievement
Authors: George Grace , Dilworth-Bart Janean , Herringa Ryan
Published: September 2021

The Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic can affect more than a child’s biological health. Lack of in-person schooling and increased stress can affect neurodevelopment, mental health, and later life outcomes, especially for students who are from low socioeconomic status (SES) households. Insights from neuroscience on child development reveal potential neural mechanisms and educational outcomes likely disrupted by the pandemic—and how this will disproportionally affect low-SES children. Three policies can combat these educational and emotional effects: increased access to online resources, investments in social-emotional health, and increased access to summer/out-of-school learning. Integrating the traditionally separate fields of neuroscience and educational research will be critical for developing and assessing the most impactful policies to improve the well-being and educational achievement of our most disadvantaged children.
Coping With the Pandemic: Implementing Social and Emotional Learning in the California K-12 School System
Authors: Varghese Agnes M. , Natsuaki Misaki N.
Published: September 2021

In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Among the massive shutdowns that occurred across the United States in response, all K-12 schools in California closed to protect the health of students. However, such a closure and its resulting consequences were associated with a host of negative mental health implications for youth. Furthermore, many of these youth may not have had adequate resources to tackle issues impacting their psyche in this unprecedented time. Social and emotional learning (SEL), a method in which children can acquire the knowledge and skills to understand and manage emotions, has a proven track record of positive social, emotional, educational, and career consequences. The California Department of Education should convene a task force to develop guidelines for local school districts that provide all K-12 students in the state with effective SEL to assist them in mental health recovery from the pandemic.
A Strength-Based Framework for Realizing Latino Young Children’s Potential
Authors: Gennetian Lisa A. , Cabrera Natasha , Crosby Danielle , Guzman Lina , Smith Julia Mendez , Wildsmith Elizabeth
Published: September 2021

Hispanic children experience poverty at rates two to three times higher than white children. Latino households with children, in general, have high parental employment coupled with low levels of parental education and stagnant parental earnings relative to non-Latino peers. While many Latino children live in neighborhoods that do not have access to high-quality early education, Latino children, on average, are raised in a home environment that offers economic stability and security, the presence of two parents, and socially supported family and community networks. Furthermore, though Hispanic children’s school achievement outcomes lag behind those of their peers, their socio-emotional developmental outcomes are on the same level or better. Latino children are raised in environments with the ingredients needed to achieve their potential. We use this foundation to propose a strength-based framework for guiding policy investment on Latino children and families.
Supporting Young Children Exposed to Potentially Traumatic Events: Implications for Early Care and Education Policy
Authors: Martin Caroline P. , Russo Jaclyn , Goldenthal Hayley , Holley Carmen , Gouze Karen R. , Williford Amanda
Published: September 2021

Every year in the United States, millions of young children under the age of 5 are exposed to potentially traumatic events that threaten their safety, security, and well-being. Decades of scientific research clearly demonstrate the pervasive negative consequences of trauma exposure on young children’s neurocognitive, psychosocial, and physical development, with adverse effects extending into adulthood. In addition, early childhood trauma is now widely recognized as a significant public health concern warranting comprehensive intervention. Federal, state, and private early care and education (ECE) programs serve a large number of the 0 to 5 population and can mitigate the harmful consequences of trauma exposure for children’s health and well-being. The literature on early childhood trauma should guide the creation of policies that strengthen ECE, enabling the delivery of high-quality, equitable, trauma-informed care to young children prior to formal school entry.
Genetic variants associated with inflammatory bowel disease and gut graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Martin Paul J. , Storer Barry E. , Levine David M. , Hansen John A.
Published: September 2021

Previous studies have identified genetic variants associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We tested the hypothesis that some of these variants are also associated with the risk of moderate to severe gut graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Associations were evaluated initially in a discovery cohort of 1980 HCT recipients of European ancestry with HLA-matched related or unrelated donors. Associations discovered in this cohort were tested for replication in a separate cohort of 1294 HCT recipients. Among the 296 single-nucleotide polymorphisms and 26 HLA alleles tested, we found that the recipient rs1260326 homozygous T allele in GCKR was associated with a higher risk of stage 2 to 4 gut GVHD. No other candidate variants were associated with stage 2 to 4 gut GVHD. The rs1260326 variant resides in an IBD-associated locus containing FNDC4, a gene that encodes a secreted anti-inflammatory factor that dampens macrophage activity and improves colitis in mice. Our results suggest that targeting inflammatory macrophages with recombinant FNDC4 offers an attractive avenue of clinical investigation for management of IBD and gut GVHD.
Initial therapy for chronic graft-versus-host disease: analysis of practice variation and failure-free survival
Authors: Pidala Joseph , Onstad Lynn , Martin Paul J. , Hamilton Betty K. , Cutler Corey , Kitko Carrie L. , Carpenter Paul A. , Chen George L. , Arora Mukta , Flowers Mary E. D. , Arai Sally , Alousi Amin , White Jennifer , Jacobsohn David , Pusic Iskra , Lee Stephanie J.
Published: September 2021

Prior clinical trials largely considered prednisone 1 mg/kg per day with or without calcineurin inhibitor as standard initial therapy for chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), but uncertainty remains regarding the extent of practice variation and whether this affects subsequent outcomes. We assembled a cohort of 745 patients with cGVHD treated with initial systemic immune suppressive (IS) therapy from 3 prior cGVHD Consortium observational studies. Initial therapy was defined as first IS therapy started for cGVHD or prednisone increased to ≥0.4 mg/kg per day from lower doses within 30 days before cGVHD diagnosis to any time afterward. Initial therapies were nonprednisone IS therapies (n = 137, 18%), prednisone alone (n = 411, 55%), or prednisone plus other IS therapy (n = 197, 26%). In multivariate analysis, initial therapy group was not associated with failure-free survival (FFS; a composite of death, relapse, and new IS therapy), overall survival (OS), or nonrelapse mortality (NRM). Among the prednisone-based approaches, steroid dose was <0.25 (9%), 0.25 to 0.74 (36%), 0.75 to 1.25 (42%), or >1.25 mg/kg per day (13%). Prednisone dose within the patients treated with steroids was not significantly associated with FFS, OS, or NRM. No significant interactions were detected between overall cGVHD severity and either initial therapy group or prednisone dose for the outcomes of FFS, OS, or NRM. These observational data document heterogeneity in more contemporary cGVHD initial treatment practices, including prednisone dose and use of nonsteroid approaches. This variation was not associated with FFS, OS, or NRM. Prospective trials are needed to verify efficacy of reduced-dose prednisone or prednisone-free initial therapy approaches.
The Mesorhizobium huakuii transcriptional regulator AbiEi plays a critical role in nodulation and is important for bacterial stress response
Authors: Chen Xiaohong , Hu Aiqi , Zou Qian , Luo Sha , Wu Hetao , Yan Chunlan , Liu Tao , He Donglan , Li Xiaohua , Cheng Guojun
Published: September 2021

Background

Bacterial abortive infection (Abi) systems are type IV toxin–antitoxin (TA) system, which could elicit programmed cell death and constitute a native survival strategy of pathogenic bacteria under various stress conditions. However, no rhizobial AbiE family TA system has been reported so far. Here, a M. huakuii AbiE TA system was identified and characterized.

Results

A mutation in M. huakuii abiEi gene, encoding an adjacent GntR-type transcriptional regulator, was generated by homologous recombination. The abiEi mutant strain grew less well in rich TY medium, and displayed increased antioxidative capacity and enhanced gentamicin resistance, indicating the abiEi operon was negatively regulated by the antitoxin AbiEi in response to the oxidative stress and a particular antibiotic. The mRNA expression of abiEi gene was significantly up-regulated during Astragalus sinicus nodule development. The abiEi mutant was severely impaired in its competitive ability in rhizosphere colonization, and was defective in nodulation with 97% reduction in nitrogen-fixing capacity. The mutant infected nodule cells contained vacuolation and a small number of abnormal bacteroids with senescence character. RNA-seq experiment revealed it had 5 up-regulated and 111 down-regulated genes relative to wild type. Of these down-regulated genes, 21 are related to symbiosis nitrogen fixation and nitrogen mechanism, 16 are involved in the electron transport chain and antioxidant responses, and 12 belong to type VI secretion system (T6SS).

Conclusions

M. huakuii AbiEi behaves as a key transcriptional regulator mediating root nodule symbiosis.
The GRAS gene family and its roles in seed development in litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn)
Authors: Chen Jingwen , Yan Qian , Li Jiawei , Feng Lei , Zhang Yi , Xu Jing , Xia Rui , Zeng Zaohai , Liu Yuanlong
Published: September 2021

Background

TheGRASgene family plays crucial roles in multiple biological processes of plant growth, including seed development, which is related to seedless traits of litchi (Litchi chinensisSonn.). However, it hasn’t been fully identified and analyzed in litchi, an economic fruit tree cultivated in subtropical regions.

Results

In this study, 48 LcGRAS proteins were identified and termed according to their chromosomal location. LcGRAS proteins can be categorized into 14 subfamilies through phylogenetic analysis. Gene structure and conserved domain analysis revealed that different subfamilies harbored various motif patterns, suggesting their functional diversity. Synteny analysis revealed that the expansion of theGRASfamily in litchi may be driven by their tandem and segmental duplication. After comprehensively analysing degradome data, we found that fourLcGRASgenes belong to HAM subfamily were regulated via miR171-mediated degradation. The various expression patterns ofLcGRASgenes in different tissues uncovered they were involved in different biological processes. Moreover, the different temporal expression profiles ofLcGRASgenes between abortive and bold seed indicated some of them were involved in maintaining the normal development of the seed.

Conclusion

Our study provides comprehensive analyses onGRASfamily members in litchi, insight into a better understanding of the roles ofGRASin litchi development, and lays the foundation for further investigations on litchi seed development.
Dietary acid load and risk of cardiovascular disease: a prospective population-based study
Authors: Mirmiran Parvin , Houshialsadat Zeinab , Bahadoran Zahra , Khalili‑Moghadam Sajjad , Shahrzad Mohammad Karim , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: September 2021

Background and aim

Considering the inconsistencies in the cardiovascular effects of dietary acid load and the impact of dietary acidity on the acid–base homeostasis within the body, we aimed to assess the association of dietary acid load and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in a prospective community-based study.

Materials and methods

Participants (n = 2369) free of CVD at baseline (2006–2008) were included from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS) and followed up for a mean of 6.7 ± 1.4 years. Dietary intakes of the participants were assessed using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The dietary acid load was evaluated by Potential Renal Acid Load (PRAL) and Net Endogenous Acid Production (NEAP) scores. Both scores have used the macronutrient and micronutrient data of the Food Frequency Questionnaires. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate the 6-years incident risk of CVDs across tertiles of PRAL and NEAP scores.

Results

Mean age and body mass index of participants were 38.5 ± 13.3 years and 26.6 ± 4.8 kg/m2 at baseline. Within 6.7 ± 1.4 years of follow-up, 79 cases of cardiovascular events were reported. NEAP was significantly associated with the incidence of CVDs (HRs = 0.50, CI 0.32–0.96; P for trend = 0.032); however, after adjusting for potential confounders, no significant associations were observed between PRAL and NEAP scores and the risk of CVDs.

Conclusions

This study failed to obtain independent associations between dietary acid load and the incidence of CVDs among an Asian population.
A meta-review demonstrates improved reporting quality of qualitative reviews following the publication of COREQ- and ENTREQ-checklists, regardless of modest uptake
Authors: de Jong Y. , van der Willik E. M. , Milders J. , Voorend C. G. N. , Morton Rachael L. , Dekker F. W. , Meuleman Y. , van Diepen M.
Published: September 2021

Background

Reviews of qualitative studies allow for deeper understanding of concepts and findings beyond the single qualitative studies. Concerns on study reporting quality led to the publication of the COREQ-guidelines for qualitative studies in 2007, followed by the ENTREQ-guidelines for qualitative reviews in 2012. The aim of this meta-review is to: 1) investigate the uptake of the COREQ- and ENTREQ- checklists in qualitative reviews; and 2) compare the quality of reporting of the primary qualitative studies included within these reviews prior- and post COREQ-publication.

Methods

Reviews were searched on 02-Sept-2020 and categorized as (1) COREQ- or (2) ENTREQ-using, (3) using both, or (4) non-COREQ/ENTREQ. Proportions of usage were calculated over time. COREQ-scores of the primary studies included in these reviews were compared prior- and post COREQ-publication using T-test with Bonferroni correction.

Results

1.695 qualitative reviews were included (222 COREQ, 369 ENTREQ, 62 both COREQ/ENTREQ and 1.042 non-COREQ/ENTREQ), spanning 12 years (2007–2019) demonstrating an exponential publication rate. The uptake of the ENTREQ in reviews is higher than the COREQ (respectively 28% and 17%), and increases over time. COREQ-scores could be extracted from 139 reviews (including 2.775 appraisals). Reporting quality improved following the COREQ-publication with 13 of the 32 signalling questions showing improvement; the average total score increased from 15.15 to 17.74 (p-value < 0.001).

Conclusion

The number of qualitative reviews increased exponentially, but the uptake of the COREQ and ENTREQ was modest overall. Primary qualitative studies show a positive trend in reporting quality, which may have been facilitated by the publication of the COREQ.
Measuring the uptake of continuous care among people living with HIV receiving antiretroviral therapy and social determinants of the uptake of continuous care in the southwest of China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Jin Yongmei , Assanangkornchai Sawitri , Fang Meiqin , Guan Wei , Tian Bo , Yu Min , Du Yingrong
Published: September 2021

Background

Continuous care is essential for people living with HIV. This study aimed to measure continuous care uptake and investigate the association between higher uptake of continuous care and behavioral and social factors, including HIV-acquisition risk and socioeconomic characteristics.

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to November 2019 in an HIV treatment center of a specialized hospital in Kunming city, China. Fourteen service indicators were used to calculate composite care scores, which were classified into three levels (low, middle, and high), using principal component analysis. The Behavioral Model for Vulnerable Populations was employed to examine predisposing, enabling, and need factors associated with composite care scores among people living with HIV.

Results

A total of 702 participants living with HIV aged ≥ 18 years (median age: 41.0 years, 69.4% male) who had been on ART for 1–5 years were recruited. Based on ordinal logistic regression modeling, predisposing factors: being employed (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.54, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13–2.11), heterosexuals (AOR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.11–2.25) and men who have sex with men (AOR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.39–3.02) and enabling factors: Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance (AOR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.03–3.54), middle socioeconomic status (SES) (AOR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.01–2.01), were positively associated with the higher level of continuous care uptake, compared to the unemployed, people who inject drugs, those with no medical insurance and low SES, respectively.

Conclusion

There were large differences in continuous care uptake among people living with HIV. HIV-acquisition risk categories and socioeconomic factors were significant determinants of uptake of continuous care. Our findings could inform the development of evidence-based strategies that promote equitable healthcare for all people living with HIV.
Influence of migrant background on patient preference and expectations in breast and gynecological malignancies (NOGGO-expression V study): results of a prospective multicentre study in 606 patients in Germany
Authors: Dimitrova D. , Naghavi B. , Richter R. , Nasser S. , Chekerov R. , Braicu E. I. , David M. , Blohmer J. , Inci G. , Torsten U. , Oskay-Özcelik G. , Blau I. , Fersis N. , Holzgreve A. , Keil E. , Keller M. , Keilholz U. , Sehouli J.
Published: September 2021

Background

An effective cross-cultural doctor-patient communication is vital for health literacy and patient compliance. Building a good relationship with medical staff is also relevant for the treatment decision-making process for cancer patients. Studies about the role of a specific migrant background regarding patient preferences and expectations are lacking. We therefore conducted a multicentre prospective survey to explore the needs and preferences of patients with a migrant background (PMB) suffering from gynecological malignancies and breast cancer to evaluate the quality of doctor-patient communication and cancer management compared to non-migrants (NM).

Methods

This multicentre survey recruited patients with primary or recurrence of breast, ovarian, peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer. The patients either filled out a paper form, participated via an online survey, or were interviewed by trained staff. A 58-item questionnaire was primarily developed in German and then translated into three different languages to reach non-German-speaking patients.

Results

A total of 606 patients were included in the study: 54.1% (328) were interviewed directly, 9.1% (55) participated via an online survey, and 36.8% (223) used the paper print version. More than one quarter, 27.4% (166) of the participants, had a migrant background. The majority of migrants and NM were highly satisfied with the communication with their doctors.

First-generation migrants (FGM) and patients with breast cancer were less often informed about participation in clinical trials (p < 0.05) and 24.5% of them suggested the help of an interpreter to improve the medical consultation. Second and third-generation migrants (SGM and TGM) experienced more fatigue and nausea than expected.

Conclusions

Our results allow the hypothesis that training medical staff in intercultural competence and using disease-related patient information in different languages can improve best supportive care management and quality of life in cancer patients with migrant status.
An individualized decision aid for physicians and patients for total knee replacement in osteoarthritis (Value-based TKR study): study protocol for a multi-center, stepped wedge, cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lange Toni , Deckert Stefanie , Beyer Franziska , Hahn Waldemar , Einhart Natascha , Roessler Martin , Sedlmayr Martin , Schmitt Jochen , Lützner Jörg
Published: September 2021

Background

Total knee replacement (TKR) is one of the most commonly performed routine procedures in the world. Prognostic studies indicate that the number of TKR will further increase constituting growing burden on healthcare systems. There is also substantial regional heterogeneity in TKR rates within and between countries. Despite the known therapeutic effects, a subset of patients undergoing TKR does not benefit from the procedure as intended. To improve the appropriateness of TKR indication, the EKIT initiative (“evidence and consensus based indication critera for total arthroplasty”) developed a clinical guideline for Germany on the indication of TKR. This guideline is the basis for a digital medical decision aid (EKIT tool) to facilitate shared decision making (SDM) in order to improve decision quality for elective surgery. The aim of this cluster randomized trial is to investigate the effectiveness of the EKIT tool on decision quality.

Methods

The Value-based TKR study is a prospective pragmatic multi-center, stepped wedge, cluster randomized controlled trial (SW-RCT). The EKIT tool provides (1) a systematic presentation of individual patient and disease-specific information (symptoms, expectations), (2) the fulfillment of the indication criteria and (3) health information about safety and effectiveness of TKR. All study sites will follow routine care as control clusters until the start of the intervention. In total, there will be 10 clusters (study sites) and 6 sequential steps over 16 month, with clusters receiving the intervention with a minimum 2 months of standard routine care. The primary outcome is patients’ decision quality measured with the Decision Quality Instrument (DQI)-Knee Osteoarthritis questionnaire. Furthermore, we will collect information on global patient satisfaction, patient reported outcome measures and the fulfilment of the individual expectations 12 months after SDM. The power calculation yielded an estimated power of 89% using robust Poisson regression under the following assumptions: 10 study sites with a total of N=1,080 patients (including a dropout rate of 11%), a 10% increase in decision quality due to the use of the EKIT tool, and a significance level of 5%.

Discussion

There is a high potential for transferring the intervention into routine practice if the evaluation is positive.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT04837053. Registered on 08/04/2021.