bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analisis Unsur Surealisme dalam Novel Umibe no Kafuka Karya Murakami Haruki
Authors: Kurniadewi Trifa Fajarina , Fitriana Rina , Haryati Tatat
Published: June 2022

Abstrak Penelitian ini membahas unsur surealisme yang terdapat pada tokoh dan latar serta proses pembentukan identitas tokoh utama Kafka Tamura dalamnovel Umibe no Kafuka. Metode yang digunakan adalah deskriptif analisis. Teori yang digunakan meliputi tokoh dan penokohan, latar, surealisme dan psikoanalisis Jacques Lacan. Hasil analisis yang diperoleh adalah unsur surealisme yang terdapat pada sifat dan perilaku tokoh serta latar merupakan pengaruh dari proses pembentukan identitas tokoh utama. Proses pembentukan identitas maupun unsur surealisme, keduanya dibentuk oleh alam sadar manusia.Kata Kunci : surealisme, psikoanalisis, alam bawah sadar, identitas
Motivasi Tindakan Kriminal dan Tindakan Sosial dalam Fenomena Tahanan Lansia di Jepang
Authors: Salamah Annisa Maulida , Iskandar Kurniawaty
Published: June 2022

Kondisi masyarakat menua di Jepang memiliki dampak sangat besar dalam sosial masyarakatnya. Perubahan masyarakat yang cepat sebagai akibat dari globalisasi dan modernisasi membuat ikatan keluarga modern yang semakin kecil, sehingga membuat lansia di Jepang yang tidak mampu hidup mandiri memilih untuk melakukan tindak kriminal agar dapat hidup lebih baik di dalam penjara. Penelitian ini disusun untuk menemukan penyebab lansia melakukan tindak kriminal dan menjelaskannya dengan teori tindakan sosial. Metode yang digunakan adalah metode kualitatif studi pustaka. Hasil penelitian ini adalah strain yang mendorong mereka untuk melakukan tindak kriminal dibagi menjadi strain ekonomi, kesehatan, dan sosial. Strain tersebut disebabkan oleh terganggunya ekuilibrium dalam sistem masyarakat.
Analisis Penggunaan Aidoru Otaku Yougo Dalam Media Sosial Twitter
Authors: Khoiruddin Khoiruddin , Fitriana Rina
Published: June 2022

Penelitian ini membahas penggunaan aidoru otaku yougo yang digunakan dalam media sosial twitter. Fokus utama dari penelitian ini adalah jenis-jenis kelas kata, pembentukan kata, dan perubahan makna kata dari masing-masing aidoru otaku yougo yang terdapat dalam media sosial twitter dengan menggunakan metode penelitian deskriptif menggunakan metode studi kepustakaan untuk pengumpulan data berdasarkan sumber data pustaka situs dengan menggunakan teori morfologi dan semantik. Hasil analisis penelitian ini adalah kelas kata meishi 41 istilah dan proses pembentukan pemajemukan kata berjumlah 20 istilah serta proses afiksasi merupakan pembentukan aidoru otaku yougo yang paling sedikit hanya terdapat satu istilah saja. Sedangkan aidoru otaku yougo juga mempunyai perubahan makna sebesar 26 istilah.
Etika Berbahasa Masyarakat Jepang dan Hubungannya Dengan Pemakaian Bikago Dalam Kalimat
Authors: Robihim Robihim , Permatasari Kun Maksusy , Harun Yessy
Published: June 2022

Prefiks O dan Go yang merupakan bikago dalam bahasa Jepang berfungsi sebagai penghalus suatu kata yang memiliki makna penghormatan. Adapun penghormatan ini dapat merujuk kepada lawan bicara dengan beberapa kondisi seperti posisi dalam pekerjaan, stasus sosial, umur, jabatan dan kedekatan. Penelitan ini membahas peranan bikago, penggunaan dan makna bikago pada fungsi-fungsi prefix o dan go dan pengaruhnya pada hubungan sosial masyarakat Jepang. Peranan bikago sebagai bagian dari keigo jika sesuai situasi dan kondisinya, maka hubungan baik dengan lawan bicara akan tetap terjalin, sebaliknya akan menjadi bentuk berupa celaan atau hinaan jika situasi dan kondisi penggunaan bikago sebagai perfiks beda atau tidak pas. Adapun makna bikago merujuk pada keterkaitan dalam status baik status pekerjaan ataupun sosial masyarakat, selian itu sebagai menyatakan ungkapan perasaan, sehinggga cerita pada lawan bicara.
PENGARUH KESADARAN MEREK TERHADAP KEPUTUSAN PEMBELIAN DALAM PENGGUNAAN E-COMMERCE TRAVELOKA (Kasus Di Kelurahan Baranangsiang Bogor Timur)
Authors: Wajdi Fahmi Indra , Martha Layung Paramesti , Kusumaningtias Intan Tri
Published: June 2022

The aims of this study are determine the level of awareness of the Kelurahaan Baranangsiang community brand and to find out how the level of brand awareness influences the community purchasing decisions of Baranangsing Village towards Traveloka E-commerce. The method used in this study was descriptive quantitative using survey research. This research was conducted in Kelurahaan Baranangsiang, East Bogor District, Bogor City with a total of 100 respondents. The sampling technique used in this study is a non probability sampling technique with a purposive sampling method. Quantitative data is presented in the form of a frequency table. Statistical tests were carried out with the help of the SPSS version 25.0 program. Based on the results of the study, it was found that the level of brand awareness of the Baranangsiang Kelurahan community was dominated by people with brand awareness at the brand recognition level. It can be concluded that brand awareness has an influence but the influence given is not too significant. But at the peak level of mind towards the level of awareness of the Traveloka brand weakening, which shows that the peak of one's mind can change along with the development of E-commerce that exists today.  Keywords: E-Commerce, Traveloka, Brand Awareness Level, Purchasing Decision.
ANALISIS MANAJEMEN KOMUNIKASI DISKOMINFOSTANDI DALAM MENINGKATKAN KUALITAS PELAYANAN PEMKOT BOGOR (STUDI KASUS APLIKASI SI BADRA)
Authors: Sabilah Danil , Puspanidra Tiara , Martha Layung Paramesti
Published: June 2022

This study aims to describe how the communication management carried out by DISKOMINFOSTANDI in an effort to improve service quality through the Si Badra Application program. This  research  is  a  used  of  descriptive qualitative research methods. Data collection techniques through interviews, observation and documentation. The results showed that the communication management process carried out consisted of four stages, namely the analysis, planning, implementation, and control stages. In this stage DISKOMINFOSTANDI was less prepared in the implementation process, namely the training carried out. But it is very good in the other processes.
PENGARUH PENGGUNAAN INTERNET TERHADAP KESADARAN POLITIK (KASUS PILKADES 2019 DI DESA CICADAS, KACAMATAN GUNUNGPUTRI, KABUPATEN BOGOR)
Authors: Syaipuloh Muhamad , Jayawinangun Roni , Nugraha Yogaprasta Adi
Published: June 2022

This research was conducted to analyze about the effect of internet use on political awareness. This study uses one independent variable, namely internet use and one dependent variable, political awareness. The sampling technique used was Non-probability sampling with accidental sampling technique. The data analysis method used is a quantitative analysis of the validity and reliability test, the classic assumption test, simple linear regression analysis, T test and F test and the coefficient of determination using SPPS software version 22 for windows. The results showed the points of the indicator variables X are intensity, usefulness, effectiveness and variable Y which consists of indicators of knowledge, understanding, attitudes, and patterns of behavior (actions) the results are valid and reliable. In the classical assumption test data is normally distributed, heteroscedasticity symptoms occur. In the hypothesis test the use of the internet has a not positive and not significant influence on political awareness.
Impact of Alcoholism and other factors on violence against women in the state of Bihar, India, - Data from NFHS (National Family Health Survey -5-2019-21)
Authors: Kumar Piyush , ANUPAMA ADVOCATE
Published: June 2022

National Family Health Survey -5 data which was conducted at household level in all 38 districts of the state of Bihar from 9 July, 2019 to 2 February, 2020 revealed that there is failure of complete alcohol ban in Bihar. Violence against women under the influence of alcoholism is still going on under influence of liquor consumption. Alcohol is a risk factor for partner violence across a range of settings for all types of violence where alcohol plays as a key situational factor, escalating the probability of violence by plummeting inhibitions, clouding judgment and deteriorating ability to interpret cues. Psychiatric morbidities such as paranoid schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, delusional and antisocial personality disorder formulate the man more likely to commit sexual crimes. In the light of the above mentioned background this study based on data of NFHS-5 is aimed to analyse the status of liquor consumption relation with
Next generation of live cell super-resolution microscopy: new mechanism and new application
Authors: Chen Liangyi
Published: June 2022

The first practical computational algorithm that extends resolution of fluorescence microscopes beyond their optics.
DEVELOPMENT OF ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION SKILLS IN A PHYSICS TEACHING THROUGH PRACTICAL WORK.
Authors:   HOD (Physics Deptt), NIS, Chemistry and Biology, Shymkent, Kazakhstan., NURZHAN SHILMURZAYEV , ABYLAY TURSYNBAYEV ,   Physics teacher, NIS, Chemistry and Biology, Shymkent, Kazakhstan, SINGH CHANDAN PAL ,   Physics teacher, NIS, Chemistry and Biology, Shymkent, Kazakhstan., IGOR AN ,   Physics teacher, NIS, Chemistry and Biology, Shymkent, Kazakhstan., BAISEYIT OMIRKUL ,   Physics teacher, NIS, Chemistry and Biology, Shymkent, Kazakhstan
Published: June 2022

This research paper addresses how to enhance analysis and evaluation skills in physics lessons using practical or lab work. Analysis and evaluation skills are very important for high school science students that can lead to developing critical thinking also, especially where English is a third-level language. Practicality plays a very important role in understanding complex and confusing topics, so integrating physics lessons with teaching practical work can improve a significant level of understanding. We have researched and analyzed data after applying for practical work in regular lessons and conclusions based on three factors, (a) performance on term-end examinations (b) Attitude towards physics/science (c) Awareness, and more enrolment in physics in grade 12. We have used the Form Two Students Attitude Questionnaire, and FTSAQ to get data to justify the research question. The study was performed on students in grade -11(NIS, Chem, and Bio, Shymkent, Kazakhstan. Respondents were divided into two groups: (1) the Control group and (2) the Experimental Group. Control group were taught in term 3 with all possible teaching methodologies (interactive lesson, Assessment, Inquiry-based learning) except practical work but in another group, practical work was included to analyze the effectiveness of integration. Results are exactly as assumed; a group with integration of practical work was high in results, attitude toward physics, and a more interesting subject with less confusion and more problem-solving skills. The approach to solving problems and connecting concepts with real life is increased significantly.
Lysozyme Gene Expression in 3T3-L1 Cells Sustains Expression of Adipogenic Genes and Adipocyte Differentiation
Authors: Lluch Aina , Latorre Jessica , Fernández-Real José Manuel , Moreno-Navarrete José María
Published: June 2022

Substantial levels of lysozyme in adipose tissue in association to obesity have been recently demonstrated in mice and humans. In addition, experiments in mice suggest that lysozyme might impact on adipose tissue adipogenesis. To further investigate the relationship between lysozyme and adipogenesis, in the present study, we aimed to study lysozyme (Lyz2) during 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation and its possible role in adipogenesis. Time course experiment during 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation indicated that Lyz2 gene expression decreased at day 4, which was caused by isobutylmethylxanthine administration, and recovered at the end of the process (day 8). Importantly, the impact of isobutylmethylxanthine-induced downregulation of Lyz2 gene expression on adipogenesis was not comparable to that observed in the full cocktail, questioning whether the reduction in lysozyme at early stage of adipocyte differentiation is relevant to this process. In fact, the depletion in Lyz2 expression had a negative impact on adipogenesis, and rosiglitazone administration failed to compensate for the anti-adipogenic effect observed in Lyz2 gene knockdown cells. Otherwise, when Lyz2 gene knockdown cells were co-cultured with control cells, these cells had higher expression of adipogenic genes than those co-cultured with themselves at the end of adipocyte differentiation. In conclusion, this study suggests that lysozyme expression in 3T3-L1 cells sustains expression of adipogenic genes and adipocyte differentiation.
Reactive Distillation of Glycolic Acid Using Heterogeneous Catalysts: Experimental Studies and Process Simulation
Authors: Mutschler Carole , Aparicio Juliana , Mokbel Ilham , Capron Mickaël , Fongarland Pascal , Araque Marcia , Nikitine Clémence
Published: June 2022

The glycerol oxidation reaction was developed leading to selective catalysts and optimum conditions for the production of carboxylic acids such as glycolic acid. However, carboxylic acids are produced in highly diluted mixtures, challenging the recovery and purification, and resulting in high production costs, polymerization, and thermal degradation of some of the products. The protection of the acid function by esterification reaction is one of the most promising alternatives through reactive distillation (RD); this technique allows simultaneously the recovery of carboxylic acids and the elimination of most part of the water. The reactive distillation, experimental and simulation, of glycolic acid was performed, based on kinetic and thermodynamic models developed. For the thermodynamic model, binary parameters of the missing couples were determined experimentally, and the non-random two-liquid (NRTL) model was selected as the most suitable to represent the binary behavior. The kinetic study of the esterification in the presence of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis concluded that the heterogeneous reaction can be accurately described either by a pseudo-homogeneous model or the Langmuir–Hinshelwood (L-H) adsorption model. Reactive distillation was conducted in a distillation column filled with random packing sulfonated ion-exchange resin, Nafion NR50®, or with extruded TiO2-Wox. The conversion rate of glycolic acid in reactive distillation increases from 14% without catalyst to 30% and 36% using Nafion NR50® and TiO2-Wox, respectively. As opposed to the batch reactor study, the conversion rate of glycolic acid was better with TiO2-Wox than with sulfonated ion-exchange resin. The better performance was related to an increase in the hydrodynamics inside the column. Tests using water in the feed confirm the hypothesis by increasing the conversion rate because of the decrease in the mass transfer resistance by reducing the average diffusion coefficient. The simulation of the reactive distillation column with ProSim® Plus showed that the yield of the ester increased operating at a low feed rate with reactive stripping. In the presence of water in the feed, nonreactive stages are required, including an enrichment region to separate water vapor.
Biochemical Characterization and Synthetic Application of WciN and Its Mutants From Streptococcus pneumoniae Serotype 6B
Authors: Gong Wei , Liang Min , Zhao Jielin , Wang Hong , Chen Zonggang , Wang Fengshan , Gu Guofeng
Published: June 2022

The biochemical properties of α-1,3-galactosyltransferase WciN from Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 6B were systemically characterized with the chemically synthesized Glcα-PP-(CH2)11-OPh as an acceptor substrate. The in vitro site-directed mutation of D38 and A150 residues of WciN was further investigated, and the enzymatic activities of those WciN mutants revealed that A150 residue was the pivotal residue responsible for nucleotide donor recognition and the single-site mutation could completely cause pneumococcus serotype switch. Using WciNA150P and WciNA150D mutants as useful tool enzymes, the disaccharides Galα1,3Glcα-PP-(CH2)11-OPh and Glcα1,3Glcα-PP-(CH2)11-OPh were successfully prepared in multi-milligram scale in high yields.
The Endless Wars: Severe Fever With Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus, Host Immune and Genetic Factors
Authors: Wang Min , Tan Weilong , Li Jun , Fang Liqun , Yue Ming
Published: June 2022

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging arboviral infectious disease with a high rate of lethality in susceptible humans and caused by severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome bunyavirus (SFTSV). Currently, neither vaccine nor specific antiviral drugs are available. In recent years, given the fact that both the number of SFTS cases and epidemic regions are increasing year by year, SFTS has become a public health problem. SFTSV can be internalized into host cells through the interaction between SFTSV glycoproteins and cell receptors and can activate the host immune system to trigger antiviral immune response. However, SFTSV has evolved multiple strategies to manipulate host factors to create an optimal environment for itself. Not to be discounted, host genetic factors may be operative also in the never-ending winning or losing wars. Therefore, the identifications of SFTSV, host immune and genetic factors, and their interactions are critical for understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of SFTSV infection. This review summarizes the updated pathogenesis of SFTS with regard to virus, host immune response, and host genetic factors to provide some novel perspectives of the prevention, treatment, as well as drug and vaccine developments.
Gentamicin Augments the Quorum Quenching Potential of Cinnamaldehyde In Vitro and Protects Caenorhabditis elegans From Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection
Authors: Chadha Jatin , Ravi  , Singh Jogender , Chhibber Sanjay , Harjai Kusum
Published: June 2022

The quorum sensing (QS) circuitry of Pseudomonas aeruginosa represents an attractive target to attenuate bacterial virulence and antibiotic resistance. In this context, phytochemicals harboring anti-virulent properties have emerged as an alternative medicine to combat pseudomonal infections. Hence, this study was undertaken to investigate the synergistic effects and quorum quenching (QQ) potential of cinnamaldehyde (CiNN) in combination with gentamicin (GeN) against P. aeruginosa. The QQ activity of this novel combination was evaluated using a QS reporter strain and synergism was studied using chequerboard assays. Further, the genotypic and phenotypic expression of pseudomonal virulence factors was examined alongside biofilm formation. The combination of CiNN and GeN exhibited synergy and promising anti-QS activity. This drug combination was shown to suppress AHL production and downregulate the expression of critical QS genes in P. aeruginosa PAO1. Molecular docking revealed strong interactions between the QS receptors and CiNN, asserting its QQ potential. Bacterial motility was compromised along with a significant reduction in pyocyanin (72.3%), alginate (58.7%), rhamnolipid (33.6%), hemolysin (82.6%), protease (70.9%), and elastase (63.9%) production. The drug combination successfully eradicated preformed biofilms and inhibited biofilm formation by abrogating EPS production. Our findings suggest that although GeN alone could not attenuate QS, but was able to augment the anti-QS potential of CiNN. To validate our results using an infection model, we quantified the survival rates of Caenorhabditis elegans following PAO1 challenge. The combination significantly rescued C. elegans from PAO1 infection and improved its survival rate by 54% at 96 h. In summary, this study is the first to elucidate the mechanism behind the QQ prospects of CiNN (augmented in presence of GeN) by abrogating AHL production and increasing the survival rate of C. elegans, thereby highlighting its anti-virulent properties.
Genomic Characterization of Mutli-Drug Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Clinical Isolates: Evaluation and Determination of Ceftolozane/Tazobactam Activity and Resistance Mechanisms
Authors: Bitar Ibrahim , Salloum Tamara , Merhi Georgi , Hrabak Jaroslav , Araj George F. , Tokajian Sima
Published: June 2022

Resistance to ceftolozane/tazobactam (C/T) in Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a health concern. In this study, we conducted a whole-genome-based molecular characterization to correlate resistance patterns and β-lactamases with C/T resistance among multi-drug resistant P. aeruginosa clinical isolates. Resistance profiles for 25 P. aeruginosa clinical isolates were examined using disk diffusion assay. Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) for C/T were determined by broth microdilution. Whole-genome sequencing was used to check for antimicrobial resistance determinants and reveal their genetic context. The clonal relatedness was evaluated using MLST, PFGE, and serotyping. All the isolates were resistant to C/T. At least two β-lactamases were detected in each with the blaOXA-4, blaOXA-10, blaOXA-50, and blaOXA-395 being the most common. blaIMP-15, blaNDM-1, or blaVIM-2, metallo-β-lactamases, were associated with C/T MIC >256 μg/mL. Eight AmpC variants were identified, and PDC-3 was the most common. We also determined the clonal relatedness of the isolates and showed that they grouped into 11 sequence types (STs) some corresponding to widespread clonal complexes (ST111, ST233, and ST357). C/T resistance was likely driven by the acquired OXA β-lactamases such as OXA-10, and OXA-50, ESBLs GES-1, GES-15, and VEB-1, and metallo- β-lactamases IMP-15, NDM-1, and VIM-2. Collectively, our results revealed C/T resistance determinants and patterns in multi-drug resistant P. aeruginosa clinical isolates. Surveillance programs should be implemented and maintained to better track and define resistance mechanisms and how they accumulate and interact.
Marine Heatwaves and Their Depth Structures on the Northeast U.S. Continental Shelf
Authors: Großelindemann Hendrik , Ryan Svenja , Ummenhofer Caroline C. , Martin Torge , Biastoch Arne
Published: June 2022

Marine Heatwaves (MHWs) are ocean extreme events, characterized by anomalously high temperatures, which can have significant ecological impacts. The Northeast U.S. continental shelf is of great economical importance as it is home to a highly productive ecosystem. Local warming rates exceed the global average and the region experienced multiple MHWs in the last decade with severe consequences for regional fisheries. Due to the lack of subsurface observations, the depth-extent of MHWs is not well-known, which hampers the assessment of impacts on pelagic and benthic ecosystems. This study utilizes a global ocean circulation model with a high-resolution (1/20°) nest in the Atlantic to investigate the depth structure of MHWs and associated drivers on the Northeast U.S. continental shelf. It is shown that MHWs exhibit varying spatial extents, with some only occurring at depth. The highest intensities are found around 100 m depth with temperatures exceeding the climatological mean by up to 7°C, while surface intensities are typically smaller (around 3°C). Distinct vertical structures are associated with different spatial MHW patterns and drivers. Investigation of the co-variability of temperature and salinity reveals that over 80% of MHWs at depth (>50 m) coincide with extreme salinity anomalies. Two case studies provide insight into opposing MHW patterns at the surface and at depth, being forced by anomalous air-sea heat fluxes and Gulf Stream warm core ring interaction, respectively. The results highlight the importance of local ocean dynamics and the need to realistically represent them in climate models.
Septal Thickness Does Not Impact Outcome After Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy Surgery (Septal Myectomy and Subvalvular Mitral Apparatus Remodeling): A 15-Years of Experience
Authors: Raffa Giuseppe M. , Franca Eluisa La , Lachina Carlo , Palmeri Andrea , Kowalewski Mariusz , Lebowitz Steven , Ricasoli Alessandro , Greco Matteo , Sciacca Sergio , Turrisi Marco , Morsolini Marco , Stringi Vincenzo , Mattiucci Gabriella , Pilato Michele
Published: June 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of septal thickness on long-term outcomes of surgical treatment for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) and correction of mitral subvalvular anomalies.

Methods

Sixty-six consecutive patients (58 ± 12 years, 56% female) undergoing extended septal myectomy and subvalvular mitral apparatus remodeling from 2007 to 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to septal thickness: moderate [< 18 mm, 29 patients (44%)] and severe [≥ 18 mm, 37 patients (56%)]. End points included survival, symptom improvement, reduction of left ventricle outflow tract (LVOT) gradient, resolution of mitral regurgitation (MR), and reoperation.

Results

The mean interventricular septal thickness was 19 ± 3 mm, 15.8 ± 0.8 mm in patients with moderate and 21.4 ± 3.2 mm in those with severe hypertrophy. Preoperative data, intraoperative variables, postoperative complication rates, pre-discharge echocardiographic and clinical parameters did not differ between the two study groups [except for procedures involving the posterior mitral leaflet (p = 0.033) and septal thickness after myectomy (p = 0.0001)]. Subvalvular apparatus remodeling (secondary chordae of mitral valve resection and papillary muscle and muscularis trabecula procedures including resection, splitting, and elongation) was invariably added to septal myectomy (100%). Four (6%) procedures involved the posterior mitral leaflets. Mitral valve replacement was carried out in two patients (3%, p = 0.4). Reoperation for persistent MR was necessary in one patient (1%, p = 0.4). Neither iatrogenic ventricular septal defect nor in-hospital mortality occurred. During follow-up (mean 4.8 ± 3.8 years), two deaths occurred. NYHA class was reduced from 2.9 ± 0.7 to 1.6 ± 0.6 (p < 0.0001), the LVOT gradient from 89.7 ± 34.5 to 16.3 ± 8.8 mmHg (p < 0.0001), mitral valve regurgitation grade from 2.5 ± 1 to 1.2 ± 0.5 (p < 0.0001), and septal thickness from 18.9 ± 3.7 to 13.9 ± 2.7 mm (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Regardless of septal thickness, subvalvular apparatus remodeling with concomitant septal myectomy can provide satisfactory long-term outcomes in terms of symptom improvement, LVOT obstruction relief, and MR resolution (without mitral valve replacement in most cases) in patients with HOCM.
Assessing Causal Associations of Atopic Dermatitis With Heart Failure and Other Cardiovascular Outcomes: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Chen Heng , Zhuo Chengui , Zheng Liangrong
Published: June 2022

Background and Aims

Observational epidemiological studies have suggested that atopic dermatitis (AD) was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, causality remains to be established. In the present study, Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were used to evaluate whether AD and CVDs are causally associated.

Methods

This study was based on summary statistics of genome-wide association studies (GWASs) for a set of cardiovascular outcomes including heart failure (HF), coronary artery disease (CAD), myocardial infarction (MI), atrial fibrillation (AF), stroke, and stroke subtypes. A total of 19 independent single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with AD were identified at a genome-wide significance threshold (P < 5 × 10−8) based on a large GWAS meta-analysis. MR estimates were pooled using the inverse variance weighted method. Complementary analyses further evaluated the robustness of the results.

Results

Genetically determined AD was causally associated with HF [odds ratio (OR), 1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.03–1.10; P = 1.11 × 10−4]. However, there was no causal association between AD and the risk of AF, CAD, MI, stroke, and stroke subtypes. Complementary analyses returned similar results. No horizontal pleiotropy was found.

Conclusion

This MR study provided evidence to support that AD exerted an effect contributing to HF. No significant associations were found for other cardiovascular outcomes. The study suggested that prevention and early diagnosis of AD may help prevent HF. Improved awareness of these associations is warranted for better management of CVDs in the future.
Stem Cell Based Approaches to Modulate the Matrix Milieu in Vascular Disorders
Authors: S Sajeesh , Dahal Shataakshi , Bastola Suraj , Dayal Simran , Yau Jimmy , Ramamurthi Anand
Published: June 2022

The extracellular matrix (ECM) represents a complex and dynamic framework for cells, characterized by tissue-specific biophysical, mechanical, and biochemical properties. ECM components in vascular tissues provide structural support to vascular cells and modulate their function through interaction with specific cell-surface receptors. ECM–cell interactions, together with neurotransmitters, cytokines, hormones and mechanical forces imposed by blood flow, modulate the structural organization of the vascular wall. Changes in the ECM microenvironment, as in post-injury degradation or remodeling, lead to both altered tissue function and exacerbation of vascular pathologies. Regeneration and repair of the ECM are thus critical toward reinstating vascular homeostasis. The self-renewal and transdifferentiating potential of stem cells (SCs) into other cell lineages represents a potentially useful approach in regenerative medicine, and SC-based approaches hold great promise in the development of novel therapeutics toward ECM repair. Certain adult SCs, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), possess a broader plasticity and differentiation potential, and thus represent a viable option for SC-based therapeutics. However, there are significant challenges to SC therapies including, but not limited to cell processing and scaleup, quality control, phenotypic integrity in a disease milieu in vivo, and inefficient delivery to the site of tissue injury. SC-derived or -inspired strategies as a putative surrogate for conventional cell therapy are thus gaining momentum. In this article, we review current knowledge on the patho-mechanistic roles of ECM components in common vascular disorders and the prospects of developing adult SC based/inspired therapies to modulate the vascular tissue environment and reinstate vessel homeostasis in these disorders.
Temporal Changes of Cardiac Structure, Function, and Mechanics During Sub-acute Cervical and Thoracolumbar Spinal Cord Injury in Humans: A Case-Series
Authors: Balthazaar Shane J. T. , Nightingale Tom E. , Currie Katharine D. , West Christopher R. , Tsang Teresa S. M. , Walter Matthias , Krassioukov Andrei V.
Published: June 2022

Individuals with cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) experience deleterious changes in cardiac structure and function. However, knowledge on when cardiac alterations occur and whether this is dependent upon neurological level of injury remains to be determined. Transthoracic echocardiography was used to assess left ventricular structure, function, and mechanics in 10 male individuals (median age 34 years, lower and upper quartiles 32–50) with cervical (n = 5, c-SCI) or thoracolumbar (n = 5, tl-SCI) motor-complete SCI at 3- and 6-months post-injury. Compared to the 3-month assessment, individuals with c-SCI displayed structural, functional, and mechanical changes during the 6-month assessment, including significant reductions in end diastolic volume [121 mL (104–139) vs. 101 mL (99–133), P = 0.043], stroke volume [75 mL (61–85) vs. 60 mL (58–80), P = 0.042], myocardial contractile velocity (S') [0.11 m/s (0.10–0.13) vs. 0.09 m/s (0.08–0.10), P = 0.043], and peak diastolic longitudinal strain rate [1.29°/s (1.23–1.34) vs. 1.07°/s (0.95–1.15), P = 0.043], and increased early diastolic filling over early myocardial relaxation velocity (E/E') ratio [5.64 (4.71–7.72) vs. 7.48 (6.42–8.42), P = 0.043]. These indices did not significantly change in individuals with tl-SCI between time points. Ejection fraction was different between individuals with c-SCI and tl-SCI at 3 [61% (57–63) vs. 54% (52–55), P < 0.01] and 6 months [58% (57–62) vs. 55% (52–56), P < 0.01], though values were considered normal. These results demonstrate that individuals with c-SCI exhibit significant reductions in cardiac function from 3 to 6 months post-injury, whereas individuals with tl-SCI do not, suggesting the need for early rehabilitation to minimize cardiac consequences in this specific population.
Robust Association Between Changes in Coronary Flow Capacity Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention and Vessel-Oriented Outcomes and the Implication for Clinical Practice
Authors: Hamaya Rikuta , Yonetsu Taishi , Sayama Kodai , Matsuda Kazuki , Ueno Hiroki , Nagamine Tatsuhiro , Misawa Toru , Hada Masahiro , Hoshino Masahiro , Sugiyama Tomoyo , Sasano Tetsuo , Kakuta Tsunekazu
Published: June 2022

Background

Coronary flow capacity (CFC) is a potentially important physiologic marker of ischemia for guiding percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) indication, while the changes through PCI have not been investigated.

Objectives

To assess the determinants and prognostic implication of delta CFC, defined as the change in the CFC status following PCI.

Materials and Methods

From a single-center registry, a total of 450 patients with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) who underwent fractional flow reserve (FFR)-guided PCI with pre-/post-PCI invasive coronary physiological assessments were included. Associations between PCI-related changes in thermodilution method-derived CFC categories and incident target vessel failure (TVF) were assessed.

Results

The mean (SD) age was 67.1 (10.0) years and there were 75 (16.7%) women. Compared with patients showing no change in CFC categories after PCI, patients with category worsened, +1, +2, and +3 category improved had the hazard ratio (95% CI) for incident TVF of 2.27 (0.95, 5.43), 0.85 (0.33, 2.22), 0.45 (0.12, 1.63), and 0.14 (0.016, 1.30), respectively (p for linear trends = 0.0051). After adjustment for confounders, one additional change in CFC status was associated with 0.61 (0.45, 0.83) times the hazard of TVF. CFC changes were largely predicted by the pre-PCI CFC status.

Conclusion

Coronary flow capacity changes following PCI, which was largely determined by the pre-PCI CFC status, were associated with the lower risk of incident TVF in patients with CCS who underwent PCI. The CFC changes provide a mechanistic explanation on potential favorable effect of PCI on reducing vessel-oriented outcome in lesions with reduced CFC and low FFR.
Effects of Seawater Recharge on the Formation of Geothermal Resources in Coastal Areas and Their Mechanisms: A Case Study of Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China
Authors: Liu Chunlei , Li Yasong , Cao Shengwei , Wang Wanli , Li Jing
Published: June 2022

The southeast coastal areas of China have abundant geothermal resources. Most especially, seawater-recharged geothermal systems in the coastal areas have large quantiles of recharge but suffer water salinization and low water temperature. Moreover, the geothermal water development in these areas may induce seawater intrusion. Understanding the genetic patterns of geothermal resources is significant for rational exploration and protection. This study analyzed the hydrochemical and environmental isotopic characteristics of geothermal water, groundwater, and surface water samples collected in the area with geothermal resources in Xiamen Province in the southeast coastal areas of China. Based on this, the recharge of geothermal water circulation and the genetic patterns of geothermal resources were revealed. The results of this study indicate that the geothermal water in mountainous areas and piedmonts in Xiamen is mainly recharged by rainfall infiltration. In contrast, the geothermal water in coastal areas in Xiamen is recharged by seawater mixing to different extents, as indicated by hydrochemical types, isotopic characteristics, and the C1-/Br- ratio of geothermal water. As revealed by the calculation results using the Cl−mixing model, 10 of 13 geothermal fields in Xiamen are recharged by seawater mixing, with a mixing ratio of up to 73.20% in the Pubian geothermal field. After being recharged by rainfall in the low mountainous areas, geothermal water migrates toward deep parts along NW-trending faults. Then, it converges with regional NE-trending deep faults to absorb heat conducted from deep parts to form deep geothermal reservoirs. The deep geothermal reservoirs were estimated to be 185–225°C using the silica-enthalpy mixing model. The geothermal water is mixed with cold water or seawater while rising along faults. The temperature of shallow geothermal reservoirs was estimated to be 71–145°C using SiO2geothermometers.
Idealized Study of a Static Electrical Field on Charged Saltating Snow Particles
Authors: Yu Hongxiang , Li Guang , Huang Ning , Lehning Michael
Published: June 2022

Strong electric fields, with values of tens kV/m near the surface, are observed during drifting and blowing snow events. Charge separation can significantly affect particle motion. Although several investigations attempted to shed light on the mechanisms of charge separation and the resulting electric field structure, few studies paid attention to the effect of electrification on the particle trajectory, which may influence the transport mechanism. In this work, we studied trajectories of individual, charged particles in an idealized static electrical field by solving the equations of motion in a neutral atmospheric boundary layer. The results show that negatively charged particles have a lower saltation height while positively charged particles jump higher as long as friction velocities are small. This effect reverses for higher friction velocities as rebound velocities start to dominate over vertical acceleration. We find regimes, in which charge separation leads to suspension of particles close to the ground. The threshold condition for this saltation-suspension transition is related to the rebound velocity and charge-to-mass ratio of the charged particle. Our study is a first step towards a better understanding on the influence of charge separation on drifting snow and should lead to include this effect in state of the art saltation models.
Relationships Between Rapid Urbanization and Extreme Summer Precipitation Over the Sichuan–Chongqing Area of China
Authors: Wang Hao , Yan Yilin , Long Keji , Chen Qingqing , Fan Xingang , Zhang Fugui , Tan Linyin
Published: June 2022

China has undergone rapid urbanization over the past few decades, and accordingly, changes have occurred in the extreme precipitation events. However, few studies have focused on the relationships between rapid urbanization and extreme precipitation events in southwest China, particularly in the Sichuan–Chongqing area, which has a complex topography and has experienced rapid urbanization over the past few decades. This is the first study to analyze the impact of urbanization on the amount, frequency, and intensity of extreme summer (June–August) precipitation events over the past 30 years. Our results indicate that extreme precipitation events primarily occurred in the urban-dominated Sichuan basin, particularly during the fast urbanization development stage (FUDS) of 1994–2015. Extreme precipitation amounts and intensities increased during the FUDS, implying the greater probability of individual precipitation events developing into heavy or extreme events in a particular area. In addition, the probability distribution functions of the occurrence and volume of strong convective events significantly increased during the FUDS. Finally, the annual increase in urban-scale land surface air temperature, increase in wet convection, and changes in wind speed are identified as essential factors leading to extreme precipitation events in this region.
Influence of Dietary Salt Intake on T2D Treatment
Authors: Li Li , Mi Yuwei , Xu Miao , Ruan Liemin , Sun Jie , Song Qifa
Published: June 2022

Backgrounds

To what extent patients undergoing long-term T2D treatment are affected by dietary salt intake has not been completely investigated.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the influence of dietary salt intakes on T2D treatment, including glucose-lowering effect and indices related to T2D progression.

Methods

The study recruited 1090 patients with T2D at Ningbo City First Hospital from January 1, 2018, to December 30, 2021. We compared their one-year follow-up outcomes in terms of fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), blood pressure, obesity, and prevalence of retinopathy and neuropathy among groups with different dietary salt intakes.

Results

The 1090 patients consisted of 287(26.3%) decreasing-, 190(17.4%) increasing-, 175(16.0%) steadily low-, 243(22.3%) steadily medium-, and 195(17.9%) steadily high-dietary salt intake patients. Compared to increasing-, steadily medium-, and steadily high-dietary salt intake patients, decreasing and steadily low salt intake led to lower baseline FBG, HbA1c, systolic blood pressure (SBP), BMI, and visceral fat area (VFA) (all p<0.05), to a larger decrease in FBG, HbA1c, SBP, BMI, and VFA after one-year treatment (all p<0.05), as well as to a slightly lower prevalence of retinopathy and a significantly lower prevalence of neuropathy. The steadily low salt patients had lower urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UAR) both at baseline and after treatment. Notably, the fasting insulin in the steadily low salt group was higher than the remaining groups after treatment (p<0.01).

Conclusions

The present study concludes that lowered dietary salt intake benefits T2D treatment in multiple aspects, including main treatment targets such as FBG and HbA1c, and indices reflecting potential complications of T2D, including BMI, VFA, SBP, UAR, retinopathy, and neuropathy.

Clinical Trial Registration

www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03811470.
Techno-Economic and Environmental Assessment of Ammonia Production From Residual Bagasse Gasification: A Decarbonization Pathway for Nitrogen Fertilizers
Authors: Telini Rodrigo Oliveira , Flórez-Orrego Daniel , de Oliveira Junior Silvio
Published: June 2022

This work evaluates the potential to produce synthetic nitrogen fertilizers by using sugarcane bagasse gasification in the São Paulo state, Brazil, aiming to increase the economic revenues and to decarbonize a chemical sector traditionally based on natural gas. The partial or total substitution of natural gas by consuming bagasse and enabling an intensive import of electricity from the Brazilian electricity mix is studied. The comparative assessment of the alternative production routes considers a reference case in which the residual bagasse is used only to generate surplus power at the cogeneration unit of the sugarcane mill, whereas ammonia is typically produced by consuming only natural gas. Unlike the conventional scenario, the proposed alternative routes employ surplus bagasse to produce ammonia. Regarding the unit exergy cost of ammonia, an increase between 50% and 100% is expected for the biomass-based routes (2.4498–3.1780 kJ/kJNH3) when compared to the conventional case (1.5866 kJ/kJNH3). In contrast, the net CO2 emissions balance of the alternative scenario achieve negative values (−2.5017 tCO2/tNH3), in comparison to the net CO2 positive emissions (1.75 tCO2/tNH3) of the conventional scenario. Additionally, the best location of the ammonia plant is nearby a sugarcane mill with a milling capacity of 10 Mt/y and 20 km far from another smaller sugarcane mill, in order to achieve an ammonia production potential of 1,200 tNH3/day. Concerning the economic analysis, if no carbon taxes are considered, the net present value (NPV) of the alternative scenarios drops up to 52%, compared to the conventional scenario. Finally, since 1.6 MtCO2/y can be avoided by using the residual bagasse as feedstock in the ammonia plant, the alternative scenarios become competitive vis-à-vis the conventional scenario in terms of NPV when carbon taxes of 40–50 USD/tCO2 are adopted. In the absence of carbon taxes, the drawback of the seasonality of the sugarcane crops (240 days of operation compared to 340 days for the conventional scenario) contributes to the decrease (39%–51%) of the NPV for the alternative scenarios.
Aerodynamic Performance of the Single-Stage Transonic Turbine With Different Reaction Degrees
Authors: Jia Qiankun , Xu Senpei , Sun Peipei , Du Wei
Published: June 2022

A numerical method was used to investigate the reaction degree effects on the aerodynamic performance and flow structure of the single-stage transonic turbine. The SST-γ-θ turbulence model was employed to predict a transition for the boundary layer near the blade surface. This work utilized a public PW-E3 blade profile from NASA. Five different reaction degrees were adopted, corresponding to Ω = 0.15, 0.27, 0.33, 0.44 and 0.59. In addition, different off-design conditions were considered with three reaction degrees. The efficiency, blade surface pressure and high Mach number distributions were significantly associated with the reaction degrees. Results indicated that the highest efficiency point was observed at Ω = 0.33. The trailing edge shocks and the reflected waves were visible in the cascade channels. The Shock wave was easily detected in the stator channel at lower reaction degrees while it was displayed in a rotor with a higher reaction degree. When the reaction degree was increased, the high Mach number region was expanded in the rotor channels while it was reduced in stators. Besides, the highest efficiency points were also observed around π = 1.5 for all operating conditions. Furthermore, the critical pressure ratio was discovered and the maximum mass flow rate gradually decreases as the reaction degree increases.
Research on Energy Management Strategy of Pure Electric Vacuum Vehicle Based on Fuzzy Control
Authors: Wang Yujie , Lei Yu , Zhang Licheng , Zhong Shengshi
Published: June 2022

The current pure electric vacuum vehicle is equipped with main and auxiliary motors, and the two motors work independently without affecting each other. The traditional auxiliary motor usually operates with constant power while the main motor is only responsible for the vehicle driving. The lack of cooperation between the two motors results in high energy consumption. Therefore, formulating a reasonable strategy for the two motors has a significant effect on the performance of the vacuum vehicle. This paper takes a pure electric vacuum vehicle as an example to propose an energy management strategy based on fuzzy control. First, for the working motor, a fuzzy controller is designed by taking the vehicle speed and acceleration as input and motor speed and torque as output. Therefore, the vacuum vehicle can automatically adjust the operating power of the cleaning system according to the real-time road conditions; the driving motor control strategy adopts a closed-loop control strategy that combines driver input and vehicle state parameter feedback based on considering the operating motor. Finally, the effectiveness of the strategy is verified by simulation. The results show that the energy-saving control strategy effectively reduces the power consumption per 100 km and increases the driving range, which is of great significance to the development and design of the vacuum vehicle.