bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicted Value of MicroRNAs, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, and Intermediate Monocytes in the Left Adverse Ventricular Remodeling in Revascularized ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients
Authors: Del Toro Raquel , Galeano-Otero Isabel , Bevilacqua Elisa , Guerrero-Márquez Francisco , Falcon Debora , Guisado-Rasco Agustín , Díaz-de la Llera Luis , Barón-Esquivias Gonzalo , Smani Tarik , Ordóñez-Fernández Antonio
Published: March 2022

Background

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) improves the survival of patients; nevertheless, some patients develop left ventricular adverse remodeling (LVAR) a few months after the intervention. The main objective of this study was to characterize the role of pro-inflammatory cell populations, related cytokines, and microRNAs (miRNAs) released after PPCI as reliable prognostic biomarkers for LVAR in patients with STEMI.

Methods

We evaluated the level of pro-inflammatory subsets, before and after revascularization, 1 and 6 months after PPCI, using flow cytometry. We also performed a miRNA microarray in isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and examined the levels of 27 cytokines in patients’ serum of patients by multiplex ELISA.

Results

We observed that the levels of classical and intermediate monocytes increased 6 h after PPCI in patients who developed LVAR later. Multivariate regression analysis and ROC curves indicated that intermediate monocytes, after PPCI, were the best monocyte subset that correlated with LVAR. Within the 27 evaluated cytokines evaluated, we found that the increase in the level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) correlated with LVAR. Furthermore, the microarray analysis of PBMCs determined that up to 1,209 miRNAs were differentially expressed 6 h after PPCI in LVAR patients, compared with those who did not develop LVAR. Using RT-qPCR we confirmed a significant increase in miR-16, miR-21-5p, and miR-29a-3p, suggested to modulate the expression of different cytokines, 6 h post-PPCI in LVAR patients. Interestingly, we determined that the combined analysis of the levels of the intermediate monocyte subpopulation, VEGF, and miRNAs gave a better association with LVAR appearance. Similarly, combined ROC analysis provided high accurate specificity and sensibility to identify STEMI patients who will develop LVAR.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that the combined analysis of intermediate monocytes, VEGF, and miRNAs predicts LVAR in STEMI patients.
Clinical Implications of Heart Rate Control in Heart Failure With Atrial Fibrillation: Multi-Center Prospective Observation Registry (CODE-AF Registry)
Authors: Song Shinjeong , Ko Jum-Suk , Lee Hye Ah , Choi Eue-Keun , Cha Myung-Jin , Kim Tae-Hoon , Park Jin-Kyu , Lee Jung-Myung , Kang Ki-Woon , Shim Jaemin , Uhm Jae-Sun , Kim Jun , Kim Changsoo , Kim Jin-Bae , Park Hyung Wook , Joung Boyoung , Park Junbeom
Published: March 2022

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is treated by heart rate (HR) control. However, the optimal HR target in AF patients with heart failure (HF) remains unclear. To evaluate the clinical implication of the resting HR in AF patients with HF accompanied by preserved, mid-range, or reduced ejection fraction (HFpEF, HFmrEF, or HFrEF, respectively).

Methods

Echocardiographic data from June 2016 to April 2020 in a prospective, multicenter, observational registry from 11,104 patients were analyzed. The follow-up duration was 2.2 years. The main outcome was composite of death and hospitalization. We categorized patients according to the HF type and resting HR: ≤ 60 bpm, 61–80 bpm, 81–110 bpm, and >110 bpm.

Results

A total of 1,421 patients were enrolled in the study: 582 in the HFpEF group, 506 in the HFmrEF group, and 333 in the HFrEF group. The patients had a mean age of 69 ± 11 years and consisted of 872 (61.4%) men. Primary endpoint rates among HFpEF patients with 60 < HR ≤ 110 bpm were lower than those with HR ≤ 60 bpm (61–80 bpm group: hazard ratio, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.46–0.94; p = 0.021; 81–110 bpm group: hazard ratio, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.40–0.90; p = 0.013). Especially, HFpEF patients with HR 81–110 bpm had a lower incidence of hospitalization caused by HF aggravation than those with other HR strata (HR ≤ 80bpm strata or HR >110 bpm strata). In HFmrEF and HFrEF patients, the survival rates did not differ significantly among patients in the three groups with HR ≤ 110 bpm. Moreover, the event rates increased significantly in HFmrEF patients with HR >110 bpm (hazard ratio, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.16-3.14, p = 0.011).

Conclusion

In patients with AF and HFpEF, the resting HR has U-shaped associations with the overall primary endpoint. A lower or higher resting HR is associated with increased cardiovascular outcomes, especially in patients with HFpEF and AF.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Management of the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Review of the Literature and Report of an Italian Experience
Authors: Camporese Giuseppe , Bernardi Enrico , Venturin Andrea , Pellizzaro Alice , Schiavon Alessandra , Caneva Francesca , Strullato Alessandro , Toninato Daniele , Forcato Beatrice , Zuin Andrea , Squizzato Francesco , Piazza Michele , Stramare Roberto , Tonello Chiara , Di Micco Pierpaolo , Masiero Stefano , Rea Federico , Grego Franco , Simioni Paolo
Published: March 2022

The Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is a clinical potentially disabling condition characterized by a group of upper extremity signs and symptoms due to the compression of the neurovascular bundle passing through the thoracic outlet region. Because of the non-specific nature of signs and symptoms, to the lack of a consensus for the objective diagnosis, and to the wide range of etiologies, the actual figure is still a matter of debate among experts. We aimed to summarize the current evidence about the pathophysiology, the diagnosis and the treatment of the thoracic outlet syndrome, and to report a retrospective analysis on 324 patients followed for 5 years at the Padua University Hospital and at the Naples Fatebenefratelli Hospital in Italy, to verify the effectiveness of a specific rehabilitation program for the syndrome and to evaluate if physical therapy could relieve symptoms in these patients.
A Biohybrid Material With Extracellular Matrix Core and Polymeric Coating as a Cell Honing Cardiovascular Tissue Substitute
Authors: Mudigonda Jahnavi , Xu Dongyang , Amedi Alan , Lane Brooks A. , Corporan Daniella , Wang Vivian , Padala Muralidhar
Published: March 2022

Objective

To investigate the feasibility of a hybrid material in which decellularized pericardial extracellular matrix is functionalized with polymeric nanofibers, for use as a cardiovascular tissue substitute.

Background

A cardiovascular tissue substitute, which is gradually resorbed and is replaced by host's native tissue, has several advantages. Especially in children and young adults, a resorbable material can be useful in accommodating growth, but also enable rapid endothelialization that is necessary to avoid thrombotic complications. In this study, we report a hybrid material, wherein decellularized pericardial matrix is functionalized with a layer of polymeric nanofibers, to achieve the mechanical strength for implantation in the cardiovascular system, but also have enhanced cell honing capacity.

Methods

Pericardial sacs were decellularized with sodium deoxycholate, and polycaprolactone-chitosan fibers were electrospun onto the matrix. Tissue-polymer interaction was evaluated using spectroscopic methods, and the mechanical properties of the individual components and the hybrid material were quantified. In-vitro blood flow loop studies were conducted to assess hemocompatibility and cell culture methods were used to assess biocompatibility.

Results

Encapsulation of the decellularized matrix with 70 μm thick matrix of polycaprolactone-chitosan nanofibers, was feasible and reproducible. Spectroscopy of the cross-section depicted new amide bond formation and C–O–C stretch at the interface. An average peel strength of 56.13 ± 11.87 mN/mm2 was measured, that is sufficient to withstand a high shear of 15 dynes/cm2 without delamination. Mechanical strength and extensibility ratio of the decellularized matrix alone were 18,000 ± 4,200 KPa and 0.18 ± 0.03% whereas that of the hybrid was higher at 20,000 ± 6,600 KPa and 0.35 ± 0.20%. Anisotropy index and stiffness of the biohybrid were increased as well. Neither thrombus formation, nor platelet adhesion or hemolysis was measured in the in-vitro blood flow loop studies. Cellular adhesion and survival were adequate in the material.

Conclusion

Encapsulating a decellularized matrix with a polymeric nanofiber coating, has favorable attributes for use as a cardiovascular tissue substitute.
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Versus Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Multivessel Coronary Artery Disease: A One-Stage Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chew Nicholas W. S. , Koh Jin Hean , Ng Cheng Han , Tan Darren Jun Hao , Yong Jie Ning , Lin Chaoxing , Lim Oliver Zi-Hern , Chin Yip Han , Lim Denzel Ming Wei , Chan Koo Hui , Loh Poay-Huan , Low Adrian , Lee Chi-Hang , Tan Huay-Cheem , Chan Mark
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims

Data are emerging on 10-year mortality comparing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stenting for multivessel disease (MVD) without left main (LM) involvement. We conducted an updated two-stage meta-analysis using reconstructed individual patient data to compare long-term mortality between CABG and PCI for patients with MVD without significant LM coronary disease.

Methods

Medline and Embase databases were searched for articles comparing CABG with PCI for MVD. A two-stage meta-analysis was conducted using reconstructed patient level survival data for all-cause mortality with subgroups by SYNTAX score. The shared-frailty and stratified Cox models were fitted to compare survival endpoints.

Results

We screened 1,496 studies and included six randomized controlled trials with 7,181 patients. PCI was associated with greater 10-year all-cause mortality risk (HR: 1.282, CI: 1.118–1.469, p < 0.001) compared with CABG. In patients with low SYNTAX score, 10-year all-cause mortality after PCI was comparable to CABG (HR: 1.102, 0.822–1.479, p = 0.516). However, in patients with moderate to high SYNTAX score, 10-year all-cause mortality was significantly higher after PCI compared with CABG (HR: 1.444, 1.122–1.858, p < 0.001; HR: 1.856, 1.380–2.497, p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

This updated reconstructed individual patient-data meta-analysis revealed a sustained lower cumulative all-cause mortality of CABG over PCI for multivessel disease without LM involvement.
CT-Based Simulation of Left Ventricular Hemodynamics: A Pilot Study in Mitral Regurgitation and Left Ventricle Aneurysm Patients
Authors: Obermeier Lukas , Vellguth Katharina , Schlief Adriano , Tautz Lennart , Bruening Jan , Knosalla Christoph , Kuehne Titus , Solowjowa Natalia , Goubergrits Leonid
Published: March 2022

Background

Cardiac CT (CCT) is well suited for a detailed analysis of heart structures due to its high spatial resolution, but in contrast to MRI and echocardiography, CCT does not allow an assessment of intracardiac flow. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can complement this shortcoming. It enables the computation of hemodynamics at a high spatio-temporal resolution based on medical images. The aim of this proposed study is to establish a CCT-based CFD methodology for the analysis of left ventricle (LV) hemodynamics and to assess the usability of the computational framework for clinical practice.

Materials and Methods

The methodology is demonstrated by means of four cases selected from a cohort of 125 multiphase CCT examinations of heart failure patients. These cases represent subcohorts of patients with and without LV aneurysm and with severe and no mitral regurgitation (MR). All selected LVs are dilated and characterized by a reduced ejection fraction (EF). End-diastolic and end-systolic image data was used to reconstruct LV geometries with 2D valves as well as the ventricular movement. The intraventricular hemodynamics were computed with a prescribed-motion CFD approach and evaluated in terms of large-scale flow patterns, energetic behavior, and intraventricular washout.

Results

In the MR patients, a disrupted E-wave jet, a fragmentary diastolic vortex formation and an increased specific energy dissipation in systole are observed. In all cases, regions with an impaired washout are visible. The results furthermore indicate that considering several cycles might provide a more detailed view of the washout process. The pre-processing times and computational expenses are in reach of clinical feasibility.

Conclusion

The proposed CCT-based CFD method allows to compute patient-specific intraventricular hemodynamics and thus complements the informative value of CCT. The method can be applied to any CCT data of common quality and represents a fair balance between model accuracy and overall expenses. With further model enhancements, the computational framework has the potential to be embedded in clinical routine workflows, to support clinical decision making and treatment planning.
Additive Effects of Obesity on Myocardial Microcirculation and Left Ventricular Deformation in Essential Hypertension: A Contrast-Enhanced Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Han Pei-Lun , Li Xue-Ming , Jiang Li , Yan Wei-Feng , Guo Ying-Kun , Li Yuan , Li Kang , Yang Zhi-Gang
Published: March 2022

Objective

The combination of hypertension and obesity is a major cause of cardiovascular risk, and microvascular changes and subclinical dysfunction should be considered to illustrate the underlying mechanisms and early identification, thereby developing targeted therapies. This study aims to explore the effect of obesity on myocardial microcirculation and left ventricular (LV) deformation in hypertensive patients by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR).

Methods

This study comprised 101 hypertensive patients, including 54 subjects with a body mass index (BMI) of 18.5–24.9 kg/m2 and 47 subjects with a BMI ≥25 kg/m2, as well as 55 age- and sex-matched controls with a BMI of 18.5–24.9 kg/m2. Myocardial perfusion indicators [upslope, time to maximum signal intensity (TTM), maximum signal intensity (Max SI)] and LV strains [radial, circumferential, and longitudinal global peak strain (PS), peak systolic strain rate (PSSR), and peak diastolic strain rate (PDSR)] were measured.

Results

Upslope was numerically increased in obese patients but statistically decreased in non-obese patients compared with controls. Longitudinal PS deteriorated significantly and gradually from controls to non-obese and obese hypertensive patients. Longitudinal PSSR and PDSR were significantly decreased in obese hypertensive patients compared with the other two groups. BMI was associated with upslope (β = −0.136, P < 0.001), Max SI (β = −0.922, P < 0.001), longitudinal PSSR (β = 0.018, P < 0.001), and PDSR (β = −0.024, P = 0.001). Myocardial perfusion was independently associated with longitudinal PSSR (TTM: β = 0.003, P = 0.017) and longitudinal PDSR (upslope: β = 0.067, P = 0.020) in hypertension.

Conclusion

Obesity had adverse effects on microvascular changes and subclinical LV dysfunction in hypertension, and BMI was independently associated with both myocardial perfusion and LV deformation. Impaired myocardial perfusion was independently associated with subclinical LV dysfunction in hypertension.
Deceleration Capacity Improves Prognostic Accuracy of Relative Increase and Final Coronary Physiology in Patients With Non-ST-Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Wang Jun , Liu Chengzhe , Guo Fuding , Zhou Zhen , Zhou Liping , Wang Yueyi , Chen Huaqiang , Zhou Huixin , Liu Zhihao , Duan Shoupeng , Sun Ji , Deng Qiang , Xu Saiting , Jiang Hong , Yu Lilei
Published: March 2022

Background

Both coronary physiology and deceleration capacity (DC) showed prognostic efficacy for patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). This retrospective cohort study was performed to evaluate the prognostic implication of DC combined with the relative increase and final coronary physiology as detected by quantitative flow ratio (QFR) for patients with non-ST-elevation ACS (NSTE-ACS) who underwent complete and successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

Patients with NSTE-ACS who underwent PCI with pre- and post-procedural QFR in our department between January 2018 and November 2019 were included. The 24-hour deceleration capacity (DC 24h) was obtained via Holter monitoring. The incidence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) during follow up was defined as the primary outcome. The optimal cutoffs of the relative increase, final QFR, and DC 24h for prediction of MACCEs were determined via receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and the predictive efficacies were evaluated with multivariate Cox regression analysis.

Results

Overall, 240 patients were included. During a mean follow up of 21.3 months, 31 patients had MACCEs. Results of multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that a higher post-PCI QFR [adjusted hazard ratio (HR): 0.318; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.129–0.780], a higher relative QFR increase (HR: 0.161; 95% CI: 0.066–0.391], and a higher DC (HR: 0.306; 95% CI: 0.134–0.701) were all independent predictors of lower risk of MACCEs. Subsequently, incorporating low DC (≤2.42) into the risk predicting model with clinical variables, the predictive efficacies of low relative QRS increase (≤23%) and low post-PCI QFR (≤0.88) for MACCEs were both significantly improved.

Conclusions

The DC combined with relative increase and final coronary physiology may improve the predictive efficacy of existing models based on clinical variables for MACCEs in NSTE-ACS patients who underwent complete and successful PCI.
Cardiac Computed Tomography: Application in Valvular Heart Disease
Authors: Patel Kush P. , Vandermolen Sebastian , Herrey Anna S. , Cheasty Emma , Menezes Leon , Moon James C. , Pugliese Francesca , Treibel Thomas A.
Published: March 2022

The incidence and prevalence of valvular heart disease (VHD) is increasing and has been described as the next cardiac epidemic. Advances in imaging and therapeutics have revolutionized how we assess and treat patients with VHD. Although echocardiography continues to be the first-line imaging modality to assess the severity and the effects of VHD, advances in cardiac computed tomography (CT) now provide novel insights into VHD. Transcatheter valvular interventions rely heavily on CT guidance for procedural planning, predicting and detecting complications, and monitoring prosthesis. This review focuses on the current role and future prospects of CT in the assessment of aortic and mitral valves for transcatheter interventions, prosthetic valve complications such as thrombosis and endocarditis, and assessment of the myocardium.
Acceleration of Deep Slip Along the Longmenshan Fault Plane Before the 2008 M8.0 Wenchuan Earthquake
Authors: Zhao Jing , Yuan Zhengyi , Ren Jinwei , Jiang Zaisen , Yao Qi , Zhou Zhihua , Yue Chong , Zhong Jun , Niu Anfu
Published: March 2022

The first step toward earthquake forecasting is the identification of variables whose spatio-temporal variation can be connected with pre-seismic crustal deformation. Four periods of campaign Global Positioning System (GPS) observations around the Longmenshan fault zone (LFZ) provide important insights in crustal deformation and deep fault slip before the 2008 M8.0 Wenchuan earthquake. By using TDEFNODE to invert the coupling fraction and dynamic slip deficit rate of the Longmenshan fault plane before the Wenchuan earthquake, we show that under a background of strong coupling, the compressive slip deficit rate perpendicular to fault increased slightly at first and then decreased; a value of ∼1.5–3.6 mm/a along the central–southern segment from 1999 to 2001 increased to ∼1.9–3.9 mm/a from 2001 to 2004, and then decreased to ∼1.1–2.6 mm/a from 2004 to 2007. The dextral slip deficit rate parallel to fault was ∼6 mm/a from 1999 to 2004, before increasing significantly to ∼9.5 mm/a from 2004 to 2007, when the compressive slip deficit rate decreased. At the same time, large-scale GPS velocity profiles show that compressive shortening deformation in the Eastern Tibet Block, perpendicular to fault, increased slightly from 2001 to 2004, and then decreased from 2004 to 2007. Meanwhile, the dextral shear deformation parallel to fault near the LFZ increased significantly from 2004 to 2007. These findings are in good agreement with those calculated using repeating earthquake sequences, indicating that the deep slip rate of the Longmenshan fault plane may have accelerated several years before the Wenchuan earthquake. Our results demonstrate that GPS data can record pre-seismic preparatory processes, and have the potential for use in medium-term large earthquake forecasting.
Balance and Correlation Analysis of Oilfield Injection-Production System Based on Data Mining
Authors: Kangxing Dong , Xinrui Zhao , Qiuyu Lu , Wei Liu , Siyuan Chang
Published: March 2022

Appropriate water injection volume is the most basic parameter required to maintain stable formation pressure and ensure the development effect of water flooding in oilfields. However, the determination of appropriate water injection volume has always been a major problem in oilfield water injection management. Based on the Grey relational algorithm, this paper determines the optimal connected injection-production well group through the study of the dynamic relationship between oil and water wells. To specifically predict water injection, a Sparrow search algorithm optimisation model based on Sine mapping is proposed. A Sine-SSA-BP algorithm was devised to predict water injection volume and both the improved algorithm and the original BP algorithm were applied to real-world data to assess their predictive accuracy. The prediction results of the Sine-SSA-BP algorithm were found to be closer to the true value than the results of the original BP algorithm, and the average error percentage is reduced by 23.86%. Therefore, the new algorithm can predict and calculate the water injection volume more accurately. The research content of this paper can provide a theoretical basis for advising adjustment measures in the block to slow down the rise of water content, maintain stable production, and improve the efficiency of the mechanical mining system.
Characterization, Classification, and Evaluation of the Reservoir Pore Structure Features of Lacustrine Fine-Grained Sedimentary Rocks. A Case Study of the Fourth Member of the Shahejie Formation in the Chenguanzhuang Area of the Southern Gently Sloping Zone of the Dongying Depression, Bohai Bay Basin
Authors: Yang Yiming , Peng Jun , Xu Tianyu , Wang Yubin , Zeng Yao
Published: March 2022

With the development of unconventional oil and gas exploration “from sea to land,” lacustrine fine-grained sedimentary rocks (FSR) have gradually attracted the attention of scholars and become an important topic in the field of unconventional oil and gas, but the research is still in its initial stage. In this study, lacustrine FSR in the Dongying Depression of the Bohai Bay Basin are used as the research object, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and quantitative image characterization are used to characterize the pore structure of the reservoir in the study area on multiple scales, analyze the reservoir characteristics control factors, and classify and evaluate the reservoir. The results show that: 1) the favorable petrographic phases of the FSR reservoir can be classified into six types of organic-rich lime mudstone, organic-rich laminoid lime clay rock, organic-rich laminoid clay micritic limestone, organic-bearing banding clay micritic limestone, organic-rich banding lime clay rock, and organic-bearing lumpy clay micritic limestone. With an average porosity of 12.3% and an average permeability of 10.58 mD, the overall reservoir is a typical low-porosity-low-permeability type; 2) the reservoir space types are diverse, with strong microscopic inhomogeneity; pores with a pore size of less than 2 nm almost have no contribution to the reservoir space; the pore volume and pore area are mainly provided by organic matter pores at the 100 nm level, mineral intergranular pores, and clay mineral shrinkage pores/slits. The FSR reservoirs in the study area are classified into three categories, and the pore structure of the reservoirs from categories I to III deteriorates in turn. This study provides a basis for the microscopic characterization, classification, and evaluation of lacustrine FSR reservoirs and their exploration.
Obesity Class Impacts Adverse Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes Independent of Diabetes
Authors: Neal Kirsten , Ullah Shahid , Glastras Sarah J.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Obesity in pregnancy is a known risk factor for adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Few studies have compared adverse pregnancy-related outcomes according to obesity severity. Hence, we aimed to examine the impact of obesity class on maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed data from all singleton births from mothers with obesity from 2013-2017 in Northern Sydney Local Health District in Sydney, Australia. Women were categorised into obesity class I (BMI 30-34.9kg/m2), class II (BMI 35-39.9 kg/m2) or class III (BMI 40+ kg/m2). Across BMI classes, we compared maternal outcomes including mode of delivery, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and preeclampsia, and neonatal outcomes including large- and small-for-gestational age (SGA, LGA), neonatal hypoglycaemia, birth defects and timing of birth. Logistic analyses were performed to explore the impact of maternal obesity class on these outcomes, adjusting for maternal age, country of birth, parity, diabetes (both pre-existing and gestational) and hypertension.

Results

There were 2466 births to women with obesity, class (69.1%), class II (21.8%), and class III (9.2%). 42.5% delivered by Caesarean section, 22.3% developed GDM and 11.2% had a hypertensive disorder in pregnancy, and Caesarean section and GDM were more common in women with higher class obesity. LGA occurred in 27.3% and SGA occurred in 4.0% of women across all classes of obesity. LGA rates were 49% more likely in women with class III compared to women with class I obesity (OR=1.49, CI 1.06-2.09, p=0.02). The presence of diabetes in the index pregnancy did not significantly impact risk of neonatal LGA between maternal obesity classes. Other neonatal adverse outcomes such as stillbirth and birth defects were more common in women with higher class obesity. SGA, neonatal hypoglycaemia, gestational age at delivery, APGAR 5-minute score and NICU admissions were similar across obesity classes, after adjustment for covariates.

Conclusions

Obesity class increases the risk of many adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Obesity class is independently associated with LGA incidence in the neonate, independent of maternal factors including GDM. Ongoing efforts must be made to reduce obesity incidence in women of reproductive age to circumvent the adverse perinatal outcomes associated with obesity.
Components of Metabolic Syndrome in Youth With Classical Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
Authors: Kim Mimi S. , Fraga Nicole R. , Minaeian Nare , Geffner Mitchell E.
Published: March 2022

Classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency is the most common primary adrenal insufficiency in children, involving cortisol deficiency, hyperandrogenism, and cardiometabolic risk. Prior studies have reported that youth with classical CAH have a higher prevalence of the components of metabolic syndrome: obesity, hypertension, elevated fasting blood glucose, and dyslipidemia. Yet, the incidence of the complete metabolic syndrome itself in children and adolescents with CAH is relatively rare. Traditional cardiometabolic risk factors can surface early in children with classical CAH, and continue to present and evolve over the lifetime, although it is only recently that reports of Type 2 diabetes and adverse cardiac events have begun to surface in adults affected by this condition. The pathophysiology underlying the increased prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors in patients with CAH is not well-understood, with disease treatments and androgen excess having been studied to date. The aim of this review is to evaluate the recent literature on traditional cardiometabolic risk factors in youth with classical CAH, and to consider non-traditional risk factors/biomarkers for subclinical atherosclerosis, inflammation, and insulin resistance. A better understanding of these traditional and non-traditional risk factors in youth with CAH could help guide treatment options and prevent the onset of metabolic syndrome in adulthood, reducing overall patient morbidity.
The Role of GLP-1 Signaling in Hypoglycemia due to Hyperinsulinism
Authors: Danowitz Melinda , De Leon Diva D.
Published: March 2022

Incretin hormones play an important role in the regulation of glucose homeostasis through their actions on the beta cells and other tissues. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) are the two main incretins and are secreted by enteroendocrine L- and K-cells, respectively. New evidence suggests that incretin hormones, particularly GLP-1, play a role in the pathophysiology of hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia. In individuals with acquired hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia after gastrointestinal surgery, including Nissen fundoplication and gastric bypass surgery, the incretin response to a meal is markedly increased and antagonism of the GLP-1 receptor prevents the hyperinsulinemic response. In individuals with congenital hyperinsulinism due to inactivating mutations in the genes encoding the beta cell KATP channels, the GLP-1 receptor antagonist, exendin-(9-39), increases fasting plasma glucose and prevents protein-induced hypoglycemia. Studies in human and mouse islets lacking functional KATP channels have demonstrated that the effect on plasma glucose is at least in part mediated by inhibition of insulin secretion resulting from lower cytoplasmic cAMP levels. The understanding of the role of incretin hormones in the pathophysiology of hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia is important for the exploration of the GLP-1 receptor as a therapeutic target for these conditions. In this article, we will review incretin physiology and evidence supporting a role of the incretin hormones in the pathophysiology of hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia, as well as results from proof-of concept studies exploring a therapeutic approach targeting the GLP-1 receptor to treat hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia.
Glucose-Stimulated Calcium Dynamics in Beta Cells From Male C57BL/6J, C57BL/6N, and NMRI Mice: A Comparison of Activation, Activity, and Deactivation Properties in Tissue Slices
Authors: Pohorec Viljem , Križančić Bombek Lidija , Skelin Klemen Maša , Dolenšek Jurij , Stožer Andraž
Published: March 2022

Although mice are a very instrumental model in islet beta cell research, possible phenotypic differences between strains and substrains are largely neglected in the scientific community. In this study, we show important phenotypic differences in beta cell responses to glucose between C57BL/6J, C57BL/6N, and NMRI mice, i.e., the three most commonly used strains. High-resolution multicellular confocal imaging of beta cells in acute pancreas tissue slices was used to measure and quantitatively compare the calcium dynamics in response to a wide range of glucose concentrations. Strain- and substrain-specific features were found in all three phases of beta cell responses to glucose: a shift in the dose-response curve characterizing the delay to activation and deactivation in response to stimulus onset and termination, respectively, and distinct concentration-encoding principles during the plateau phase in terms of frequency, duration, and active time changes with increasing glucose concentrations. Our results underline the significance of carefully choosing and reporting the strain to enable comparison and increase reproducibility, emphasize the importance of analyzing a number of different beta cell physiological parameters characterizing the response to glucose, and provide a valuable standard for future studies on beta cell calcium dynamics in health and disease in tissue slices.
Two-Stage Optimal Operation Management of a Microgrid Considering Electricity-Hydrogen Coupling Dynamic Characteristics
Authors: Liu Xinrui , Zhong Weiyang , Hou Min , Luo Yuqing
Published: March 2022

The uncertainty and volatility of renewable energy generation lead to large amounts of abandoned electricity. The electricity-hydrogen coupling microgrid (EHCM) consists of the proton exchange membrane electrolytic cell (PEMEC), liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC) hydrogen storage, proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). The structure helps to increase the utilization of wind and photovoltaic power. The scheduling of an EHCM is very challenging. This paper proposes the optimal operation of a microgrid considering the uncertainty of wind speed, light, and the coupling of electricity and hydrogen. The electricity-hydrogen coupling model and hydrogen market model are constructed. The microgrid provides ancillary services to the grid while meeting hydrogen demand. The above model is solved using a two-stage optimization method with time scales of day-ahead and intra-day. Finally, taking the IEEE 33-node microgrid as an example, the effectiveness of the proposed model is verified. The results of the case show that the proposed method can obtain more benefits and reduce carbon emissions.
Assessing the Oxidative Stability of Anion Exchange Membranes in Oxygen Saturated Aqueous Alkaline Solutions
Authors: Arges Christopher G. , Ramani Vijay , Wang Zhongyang , Ouimet Ryan J.
Published: March 2022

While anion exchange membrane water electrolyzers show promise as a source of green hydrogen using low-temperatures and non-platinum group metal catalysts, many concerns must be addressed. A primary challenge for the development of high-performance anion exchange membrane water electrolyzers is the fabrication of a stable membrane that will be able to survive long-term stability test while maintaining high anion conductivity, which is a necessity for a durable water electrolyzer. This method will present a standardized protocol that can be used by researchers to assess the quality of their AEM materials and be able to provide insight into how materials may be degrading and how to improve the quality of AEMs. Using Mohr or Volhard titration to measure ion-exchange capacity, EIS to determine the ionic conductivity, NMR and FTIR to understand the extent of membrane degradation over time, and mechanical analyzers to determine the strength of their AEMs, this standardized protocol will guide researchers to determining and improving upon the long-term durability and performance of their AEM materials.
Numerical and Experimental Study on Mode Identification Error Characteristics of Fan Noise
Authors: Xu Kunbo , Liu Cunliang , Tong Fan , Qiao Weiyang
Published: March 2022

The influence of different test methods on the accuracy of mode identification is not clear, and it is necessary to explore the error transfer characteristics in mode decomposition of fan noise. Numerical and experimental research studies are carried out on the advantages and disadvantages of radial rake and axial microphone array and error transmission characteristics in mode decomposition. In the numerical study, the error transmission characteristics of different arrays are investigated by adding random disturbances to the artificial sound field, so as to evaluate the applicability and limitations of the two typical arrays in mode identification based on the error analysis theory. The mode recognition error of the single-stage axial flow fan is investigated experimentally using the designed radial rakes and axial arrays. The results show that although the radial rake can directly measure the radial distribution of the modal amplitude, it has a large error in the mode identification at low frequencies. Compared with the radial rake, axial array will take more priority in practical applications. The accuracy of the axial microphone array in mode recognition strongly depends on the axial spacing of the array measuring sensors. The small deviations in the mode identification when applying the two typical arrays are caused by the different signal-to-noise ratio of the sound pressure signals acquired by the two arrays and their discriminative sensitivities to the duct airflow. Based on the obtained modal identification error characteristics, an effective mode identification method can be proposed to help fan noise reduction design.
A Novel Approach for Estimation of Sediment Load in Dam Reservoir With Hybrid Intelligent Algorithms
Authors: Karami Hojat , DadrasAjirlou Yashar , Jun Changhyun , Bateni Sayed M. , Band Shahab S. , Mosavi Amir , Moslehpour Massoud , Chau Kwok-Wing
Published: March 2022

Predicting the amount of sediment in water resource projects is one of the most important measures to be taken, while sediments have an unknown nature in their behavior. In this research, using the data recorded at the Mazrae station between 2002 and 2013, the amount of sediment in the catchment area of Maku Dam has been predicted using different models of intelligent algorithms. Recorded data including river flow (m3/s), sediment concentration (mg/L), and temperature (°C) were considered input data, and sediment load (ton/day) was considered output data. Initially, using the correlation test, the relationship between each input data with output data was considered. The results show high correlation of sediment concentration data and river flow with sediment load and low correlation of temperature data with these data. In order to find the best combination of data for prediction, the combination of single, binary, and triple data was considered in sensitivity analysis. In order to achieve the purpose of this study, first with the classical adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), the amount of sediment load was predicted, and then using evolutionary algorithms in ANFIS training, their performance was examined. The intelligent algorithms used in this study were ant colony optimization extended to continuous domain, particle swarm optimization, differential evolution, and genetic algorithm. The results showed that adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system–ant colony optimization extended to continuous domain, adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system–particle swarm optimization, adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system–genetic algorithm, adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system–differential evolution, and classical ANFIS had the best performance in predicting the amount of sediment load. In the meantime, it was observed that the coefficient of determination, root mean square error, and scatter index in the test mode for the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system–ant colony optimization extended to continuous domain algorithm with the best prediction dataset (sediment concentration + river flow) are equal to 0.991, 13.001, and (ton/day), 0.112, and those for the ANFIS with the weakest prediction (temperature + river flow) are equal to 0.490, 107.383 (ton/day), and 0.929, respectively. The present study showed that the use of intelligent algorithms in ANFIS training has been able to improve its performance in predicting the amount of sediment load in the catchment area of Maku Dam.
Multi-Media Occurrence of Antibiotics and Antibiotic Resistance Genes in East Dongting Lake
Authors: Guo Xiaochun , Song Ranran , Lu Shaoyong , Liu Xiaohui , Chen Jinming , Wan Zhengfen , Bi Bin
Published: March 2022

With the extensive use of antibiotics, antibiotics and their induced resistance genes (ARGs) have become new types of pollutants widely distributed in a variety of environmental media. The contamination of antibiotics and ARGs occurring in important living and agricultural regions has aroused wide concern worldwide, especially in lake basins. The Dongting Lake basin is one of the important aquaculture and livestock areas in China, which is accompanied by a large amount of antibiotic use and discharge. However, the occurrence characteristics of antibiotics and ARGs in a multi-environment medium are still unclear. In this study, surface water and sediment samples in East Dongting Lake were collected by season, antibiotics and ARGs were quantitatively analyzed, and the risk quotient method was used to evaluate the ecological risk of antibiotics in surface water. 1) The concentration of antibiotics in the surface water of East Dongting Lake ranged from ND to 943.49 ng/L, with the maximum average concentration of 20.92 ng/L in spring. The concentration of antibiotics in sediments ranged from ND to 177.43 ng/g, with the maximum average concentration of 16.38 ng/g in fall. Ofloxacin (OFL) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) were the main antibiotic pollutants in East Dongting Lake Basin. 2) sul1 and sul2 were the dominant ARGs in East Dongting Lake Basin. For spatial change, the total abundance of ARGs upstream was higher than that downstream. For seasonal change, the surface water and sediment were characterized by spring > summer > fall. 3) OFL and sulfamethoxazole might pose a significant high risk to aquatic organisms both in three seasons, and the ecological risk of antibiotics in East Dongting Lake is more significant at low temperatures than high. This study could provide important data information of the occurrence and concentration of antibiotics and ARGs in East Dongting Lake Basin.
The Impact of Green Investment, Technological Innovation, and Globalization on CO2 Emissions: Evidence From MINT Countries
Authors: Li Shijie , Yu Yang , Jahanger Atif , Usman Muhammad , Ning Yifan
Published: March 2022

The Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Turkey (MINT) countries have practiced significant levels of economic growth over the years. However, these countries have not managed to protect their environmental quality in tandem. Thus, the aggravation of environmental indicators traversing these countries radiates a shadow of uncertainty on their achievement of economic growth sustainability. In this regard, green investment and technological innovations are commonly considered as an effective aspect geared to minimize CO2 emissions, as these increase energy efficiency and involve cleaner production. Thus, this study investigates the effect of green investment, economic growth, technological innovation, non-renewable energy use, and globalization on the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in MINT countries from 2000 to 2020. After checking the stationary process, this study applied fully modified ordinary least square and dynamic ordinary least square methods to estimate the long-run elasticity of the mentioned regressors on CO2 emissions. The outcomes show that non-renewable energy and technological innovations significantly increase environmental degradation. In contrast, the globalization process and green investment significantly reduce it in the long run. Moreover, the interaction effect of green investment and globalization significantly overcomes the pressure on the environment. Similarly, the moderation effect of technological innovation and globalization significantly reduces the emission level in the region. Moreover, the U-shaped environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis was observed between economic growth and carbon emission across the MINT countries. Furthermore, the findings of the Dumitrescu and Hurlin’s panel causal test disclose that bidirectional causality exists between green investment, globalization, technological innovations, non-renewable energy, and CO2 emissions. This study also recommends some valuable policy suggestions to governments in general and to policymakers specifically which are aimed to endorse environmental sustainability in the MINT countries.
Reef Fish Diversity Across the Temperate South Pacific Ocean
Authors: Pérez-Matus Alejandro , Neubauer Philipp , Shima Jeffrey S. , Rivadeneira Marcelo M.
Published: March 2022

Patterns of species richness and their structuring forces at multiple scales provide a critical context for research efforts focusing on ecology, evolution, and conservation. Diversity gradients have been demonstrated in tropical reef fish, but corresponding patterns and mechanisms remain poorly understood in temperate regions. We conducted hierarchical (spatially nested) sampling of temperate reef fish faunas across > 140 degrees of longitude in the eastern and western South Pacific Ocean. Our sampling efforts spanned five distinct provinces: the Southeast Australian Shelf (SAS), Northern and Southern New Zealand (N-SNZ), Juan Fernandez and Desventuradas Islands (JFD), and the Warm Temperate Southeastern Pacific (WTPA). We evaluated (i) spatial variation in patterns of species richness and abundance (using Chao 1 index), and distribution of functional diversity (using several functional attributes: max body size, trophic groups, feeding guilds, trophic level, habitat use, gregariousness, and activity patterns) and (ii) scale-dependencies in these patterns. Species richness declined from west to east across the temperate South Pacific, but this pattern was detectable only across larger spatial scales. A functional redundancy index was significantly higher in the western South Australian Shelf at multiple scales, revealing that species contribute in equivalent ways to an ecosystem function such that one species may substitute for another. We also detected that patterns of variation in functional diversity differed from patterns of variation in species richness, and were also dependent on the spatial scale of analysis. Lastly, we identified that species’ traits are not equally distributed among reef fish assemblages, where some provinces are characterized by a distinct functional component within their reef fish assemblages. Planktivorous and schooling species, for instance, dominated the assemblages in the eastern Pacific, which is characterized by higher primary productivity and steep bathymetric slopes favoring these traits. Demersal and pairing behavior traits dominated the reef fish assemblages in western Pacific provinces (SAS, SNZ). We conclude that combining the identifies and species’ traits allow us to disentangle historical, biogeographic and environmental factors that structure reef fish fauna.
Small Urban Green Roof Plots Near Larger Green Spaces May Not Provide Additional Habitat for Birds
Authors: Partridge Dustin R. , Clark J. Alan
Published: March 2022

Global wildlife populations are in decline, in part, due to urbanization. However, in urban landscapes, green infrastructure such as green roofs are being created to provide habitat for wildlife. Green roof isolation, planting heterogeneity, and size can all influence wildlife biodiversity, as may the age of a green roof. When new habitat is created, wildlife use of these new habitats is expected to increase over time. To test this expectation for birds, we monitored bird activity prior to and after installation of small green roof plots on six buildings located within New York City parks. Contrary to expectations, bird activity and bird species richness did not increase after green roof plot installation, nor did they increase over a period of 4 years following installation. These unexpected results may reflect the relatively small size of the plots or the fact that the plots were on buildings located within urban parks. Bird activity and bird species richness varied widely between roofs, and the composition of rooftop bird species may have been more influenced by the characteristics of the surrounding landscapes than the presence of the green roof plots. These findings suggest that small urban green roofs within a larger and, potentially, higher quality habitat may not provide additional habitat for foraging birds. Urban green roofs have numerous ecological and environmental benefits, but the size and characteristics of landscapes surrounding a green roof need to be considered when installing green roofs as wildlife habitat.