bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Segmentation of Agricultural Parcels in Satellite Images Based on Historical Vegetation Index Data
Authors: Pavlova Maria , Timofeev Valerii , Bocharov Dmitry , Kunina Irina , Smagina Anna , Zagarev Mikhail
Published: December 2021

This paper considered the issue of agricultural fields boundary recognition in satellite images. A novel algorithm based on the aggregated history of vegetation index data obtained via open satellite data, Sentinel-2, was proposed. The proposed algorithm included several basic steps, namely the detection of parcel regions on aggregated index data; the calculation of aggregated edge maps; the segmentation of parcel regions using the edges obtained; the computation of connected components and their contour extraction. In this paper, we showed that the use of aggregated vegetation index data and boundary maps allow for much more accurate agricultural field segmentation compared to the instant vegetation index approach. The quality of segmentation within regions of Russia and the Ukraine was estimated. The dataset that was used and Python implementation of the proposed algorithm were provided.
Multi-modal Data Fusion Method for Human Behavior Recognition Based on Two IA-Net and CHMM
Authors: ZHANG Yinhuan , XIAO Qinkun , CHU Chaoqin , XING Heng
Published: December 2021

The multi-modal data fusion method based on IA-net and CHMM technical proposed is designed to solve the problem that the incompleteness of target behavior information in complex family environment leads to the low accuracy of human behavior recognition.The two improved neural networks(STA-ResNet50、STA-GoogleNet)are combined with LSTM to form two IA-Nets respectively to extract RGB and skeleton modal behavior features in video. The two modal feature sequences are input CHMM to construct the probability fusion model of multi-modal behavior recognition.The experimental results show that the human behavior recognition model proposed in this paper has higher accuracy than the previous fusion methods on HMDB51 and UCF101 datasets. New contributions: attention mechanism is introduced to improve the efficiency of video target feature extraction and utilization. A skeleton based feature extraction framework is proposed, which can be used for human behavior recognition in complex environment. In the field of human behavior recognition, probability theory and neural network are cleverly combined and applied, which provides a new method for multi-modal information fusion.
Fierce Heat and Players’ Health: Examining the View on Japan High School Baseball
Authors: Yamamura Eiji
Published: December 2021

A summer high school baseball tournament is held every mid-summer in Koshien Stadium. “Koshien Baseball” is very popular in Japan; however, it faces the problem of extremely high temperatures during games. Thus, high school players are threatened by the harsh environment. For this reason, Internet surveys were conducted twice to purposefully engage the same individuals. Then, information on their views regarding the Koshien tournament before and after the provision of information regarding environmental change in Japan was gathered. Using data, this study examined how their views changed after having the information. Compared with the view before, it was found that (1) respondents were more likely to agree that the management rule of the Koshien tournaments should be altered to protect player’s health, and (2) the impact of providing information is larger for female respondents, young people, and highly educated respondents.
Şiî Müfessir Bahrânî ve el-Burhân Fî Tefsîri’l-Kur’ân İsimli Eseri: Muhteva ve Biçim Analizi
Authors: SHAHAVATOV Sabuhi
Published: December 2021

Son dönemlerde İslam düşünce tarihindeki farklı dinî ve siyasî oluşumlara mensup alimlerin düşüncelerine yönelik akademik çalışmalar artış göstermekle birlikte, özellikle 16. ve 17. yüzyılları ihtiva eden dönemlerde hem Osmanlı (Sünnî) hem de Safevi (Şiî) devletlerinde kaleme alınan çalışmalara ilişkin akademik incelemelerin hala sınırlı sayıda olduğu görülmektedir. Bu sınırlı literatür, 16. ve 17. yüzyılların düşünce geleneğinin genel portresini çizmek için yeterli veriyi sağlayamadığı için, söz konusu döneme dair hem bibliyografik çalışmaların hem de doğrudan metinler üzerine incelemelerin yapılması faydalı olacaktır. Yapılacak araştırmalar daha ileri çalışmalara zemin hazırlayacağı gibi söz konusu dönemin dinî/teolojik düşünce biçimi hakkında da bazı ipuçları verecektir. Buradan hareketle, bu makale, 17. yüzyıl Şiî tefsir geleneğinin önemli müfessirlerinden Seyyid Hâşim el-Bahrânî ve el-Burhân fî tefsîri’l-Kur’ân isimli tefsirini ele almakta ve müellifin genel bibliyografyasını belli ölçüde incelemekle beraber, doğrudan metnin kendisine yönelik muhteva analizi de yaparak söz konusu dönemdeki Şiî tefsir literatürünün genel karakterini ortaya koymayı amaçlamaktadır. Ulaşabildiğimiz kaynaklar ışığında, Bahranî’nin, geç dönem müfessiri olmasına rağmen, Şii literatürde o döneme kadar birikmiş olan tefsire dair rivayet malzemesini bütünüyle derlemeyi hedefleyen ilk isim olarak öne çıktığını söylemek mümkündür. Diğer taraftan kendisinin örtük de olsa, diğer (dilbilimsel, felsefî ve tasavvufi) tefsir biçimlerine de bir itirazı söz konusudur. Bu yönleri ile el-Burhân tefsiri, Şii havzanın rivayet/ahbarî kanadının tefsir alanındaki en kapsamlı metni olarak kabul edilebilir. Bahranî ve eserinin bu özellikleri ve Türkiye’de şimdiye kadar bu konuda akademik bir inceleme yapılmaması açısından çalışmamız önem arz etmektedir. Bu bağlamda hem Bahrânî hem de kaleme aldığı tefsir üzerine yapılacak her araştırmanın ileri düzey çalışmalara zemin hazırlayacağı kanaatindeyiz.
Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae Prosthetic Joint Infection in an Immunocompromised Patient
Authors: Mahon John , Phoenix Eimear , Sundanum Sonia , O'Rourke Killian , O'Sullivan Cathal E , Merghani Khalid
Published: December 2021

Case:

We report the case of an immunosuppressed 65-year-old man with prosthetic joint infection (PJI) 23 years postoperatively because of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, through hematogenous seeding of cutaneous erysipeloid. Immunotherapy was discontinued, washout was performed, and antimicrobial therapy was guided by laboratory sensitivities. The patient was discharged on suppressive oral ciprofloxacin monotherapy. First-stage revision was performed at 5 months after presentation—subsequent aspiration at 1 year postoperatively demonstrated no organisms and no leucocytes. At 18-month follow-up, the patient continues to do well and has elected not to proceed with second-stage surgery.

Conclusion:

E. rhusiopathiae is a rarely seen pathogen in PJI—it should be considered with immunosuppression and relevant exposure risks. The patient achieved good clinical outcome and has experienced no sequelae to date.
Team Approach: Preoperative Management of Metabolic Conditions in Total Joint Replacement
Authors: Liu Christina , Brinkmann Elyse , Chou Sharon H. , Tejada Arias Karla , Cooper Lisa , Javedan Houman , Iorio Richard , Chen Antonia F.
Published: December 2021

» Total joint arthroplasties (TJAs) of the knee and hip have been considered 2 of the most successful surgical procedures performed to date.

» Frailty is defined as increased vulnerability to adverse outcomes with physiologic stress.

» Preoperative optimization of frailty and metabolic bone conditions, including osteoporosis, vitamin D deficiency, and diabetes, through a multidisciplinary approach can help improve outcomes and minimize costs after TJA.
Assessment of Left Ventricle Myocardial Function in Hypertensive Patients Using Three-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography (3D-STE)
Authors: Ali Shima , Gareeballah Awadia , Yousif Rihab , Mohammed Ahmed , Mohammed Marwa , Abouraida Raga , XIE Mingxing
Published: December 2021

Background: Increased myocardial fibrosis in hypertension leads to abnormalities in left ventricular diastolic function. 3D-speckle-tracking imaging (3D-STI) is a primary imaging modality used to detect early changes in the left ventricle (LV). The aim of this study was to assess the left ventricular myocardial function in hypertensive patients using 3D-speckle tracking imaging (3D-STI). Methods and Results: A case control, nonintervention, descriptive study was conducted in the Department of Ultrasound Diagnosis of Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology (Wuhan, Hubei, China). The study subjects included 64 patients with hypertension (HT) and, as control group, 44 normotensives. HT patients were divided into HT-I group (SBP of 130-139 mmHg or DBP of 80-89 mmHg, and HT-II group (SBP >140 mmHg or DBP >90 mmHg). In this study, LV geometry and function were assessed using conventional 2D- and 3D-echocardiography in a total of 108 consecutive subjects. LV volumes, global and regional strains were measured using 3D-STI. LV ejection fraction (LVEF) was in normal range in three groups, but in general, it slightly decreased in HT-II patients, compared with control and HT-I groups (62.5±2.1%, 68.0±2.2%, and 67.5±1.3%, respectively, P=0.00). Global systolic strain demonstrated a significant decrease in GLS, GCS, and GRS in the HT-II group, compared with control and HT-I groups. All regional strain parameters (longitudinal, circumferential, and radial) significantly decreased in HT-II patients, compared with control and HT-I groups. Conclusion: A significant deterioration of global LV systolic functions is found in hypertensive patients with well-preserved LVEF, especially in patients with hypertension stage II.
Dyslipidemia as Predictor of Missed Miscarriage
Authors: Orazmuradov Agamurad , Morozov Sergey , Akhmatova Anastasiya , Haddad Khalid , Lopatin Alexander , Ramazanova Fatima , Bekbaeva Irina , Kyrtikov Sergey , Suleymanova Zhasmina , Lukaev Aleksey
Published: December 2021

Background: This study aimed at finding the diagnostic and prognostic possibilities of determining apoC-II, as a serological marker for MM in early gestation. Methods and Results: The study included 182 pregnant women aged between 18 and 45 years at gestational age under 11 weeks. All women were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 (Gr1) included 90 women with MM; Group 2 (Gr2) included 52 women with spontaneous miscarriage; Group 3 included 40 women without pathology (control group [CG]). Lipid metabolism disorders were diagnosed according to the Russian national recommendations of the VII revision(the Russian Society of Cardiologists [RSC, 2020]), considering the European recommendations (2019). Proteomic analysis of the blood serum was performed using LC-MS. Abnormalities in the lipid profile were more common in patients with MM and spontaneous abortions: 62.2% and 59.7% of cases, respectively, which correlates with the identified marker apoC-II in Gr1 and Gr2. Conclusion: ApoC-II can be considered as the most promising serologic marker for MM in the early gestation period for women with dyslipidemia.
Women’s Perception of and Readiness to Adopt a Sustainable Healthy Diet: A Cross-sectional Survey in Enugu City, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbuabor Daniel Chukwuemeka , Ogbuabor Alphonsus Ogbonna
Published: December 2021

Background: Perceived benefit of and readiness to adopt sustainable healthy diets (SHDs) is under-investigated in low-resource countries. We assessed women’s perceived benefit of and readiness to adopt SHDs and their associated factors in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria. Methods: A household cross-sectional survey of childbearing women (n = 450) was conducted in January and February 2021 using a questionnaire assessing food choice motives, perceived benefit, and readiness to adopt SHDs. Readiness to adopt SHDs was grouped into pre-contemplation and contemplation (PC/C), preparation and relapse (P/R), and action and maintenance (A/M). Results: About 79% and 60% of women have high perception and adopted SHDs respectively. Perceived benefit of SHD was associated with younger age (β = -0.20, ρ < 0.05), low education (β = -0.19, ρ < 0.05), and poor wealth quintile (β = -0.57, ρ < 0.001). PC/C was predicted by low perceived benefit (OR = 10.07, 95% CI: 4.78-21.22, ρ < 0.001), low education (OR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.25-5.04, ρ = 0.010), and taste (OR = 3.96, 95% CI: 1.61-9.75, ρ = 0.003). PR was predicted by low perceived benefit (OR = 3.92, 95% CI: 1.99-7.73, ρ < 0.001), low education (OR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.00-3.29, ρ = 0.049). A/M was related to younger age (OR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.27-0.84, ρ = 0.010, PR), and health (OR = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.06-0.36, ρ < 0.001, PC/C) and (OR = 0.17, 95% CI: 0.08-0.35, ρ < 0.001, P/R). Conclusions: Adoption of SHDs need to improve in Enugu, Nigeria. We identified the factors that should inform dietary guidelines and campaigns to increase women's adoption of SHDs.
Gene Co-expression Network Characterizing Microenvironmental Heterogeneity and Intercellular Communication in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Implications of Prognostic Significance and Therapeutic Target
Authors: Wu Chengsi , Liu Yizhen , Cai Kun , Tao Li , Wei Dianhui , Jing Tiantian , Wang Boshi
Published: December 2021

Background Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by intensive stroma involvement and heterogeneity. Pancreatic cancer cells interplay with surrounding tumor micro-environment (TME), leading to exacerbated tumorigenesis, dismal prognosis and tenacious therapy resistance. Herein, we aim to ascertain a gene-network indicative of vicious features of TME, then find a vulnerability for pancreatic cancer. Methods Single cell RNA sequencing data was processed by Seurat package, retrieving the cell component marker genes (CCMGs). Correlation networks/modules of CCMGs were determined by WGCNA algorithm in a combined PDAC mRNA expression dataset. The gene modules that statistically associate with prognosis were chosen for classifying TME subgroups, constructing neural network and designing the risk score system. Cell-cell communication analysis was achieved by NATMI software. The tumor suppressive effect of ITGA2 inhibitor was evaluated in vivo by using a Kras G12D -driven murine pancreatic cancer model.Results WGCNA analysis categorized cell component marker genes into eight co-expression networks. From gene modules with the maximum and minimum hazard ratio, we stratify PDAC samples based on TME gene patterns, resulting in two main TME subclasses with contrasting survival periods. Furthermore, we generated a neural network model and a risk score model which robustly predict prognosis and therapeutic outcomes. The hub genes in both gene modules were also gathered for functional enrichment analysis, elucidating a crucial role of cell communication-mediating integrins in TME associated PDAC malignancy. To perform a confirmatory experiment underpinning the significance of hub gene targeting, the mice with spontaneously developed pancreatic cancer were orally treated with an integrin inhibitor. The in vivo assays unraveled that pharmacologically inhibiting ITGA2 counteracts cancer-promoting micro-environment, and ameliorates pancreatic lesions. Conclusions By recapitulating gene-network across various cell types, we exploited novel PDAC prognosis-predicting strategies. Medically interfering ITGA2, a key factor guiding cellular reciprocal interaction, attenuated tumor development. These findings may open new avenue about PDAC targeting therapy.
Comprehensive Evaluation of the Effects of Long-term Cryopreservation on Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells using Flow Cytometry
Authors: Li Bo , Yang Chunmei , Ja Gui , Liu Yansheng , Wang Na , Yang Fangfang , Su Rui , Shang Yulong , Han Ying
Published: December 2021

Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) originate from hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in the bone marrow, which mainly includes lymphocytes (T cells, B cells, and natural killer [NK] cells) and monocytes. Cryopreserved PBMCs providing biobank resources are crucial for clinical application or scientific research. Here, we used flow cytometry to explore the influence of long-term cryopreservation on the quality of PBMCs with the aim of providing important evidence for the effective utilization of biobank resources. The PBMCs were isolated from the peripheral blood, which was collected from volunteers in the hospital. After long-term cryopreservation in liquid nitrogen, we analyzed the changes in cell numbers, viability, and multiple subtypes of PBMCs and studied the apoptosis, proliferation, activation, function, and status of T cells in comparison with freshly isolated PBMCs by flow cytometry, and then further tracked the effects of long-term cryopreservation on the same sample. Although the different cell types in the PBMCs dynamically changed compared with those in the freshly isolated samples, PBMC recovery and viability remained stable after long-term cryopreservation, and the number of most innate immune cells (e.g., monocytes and B cells) was significantly reduced compared to that of the freshly isolated PBMCs or long-term cryopreserved PBMCs; more importantly, the proportion of T cell subtypes, apoptosis, proliferation, and functional T cells, except for Tregs, were not affected by long-term cryopreservation. However, the proportions of activated T, naïve T, central memory T, effector T, and effector memory T cells dynamically changed after long-term cryopreservation. This article provides important evidence for the effective utilization of biobank resources. Long-term cryopreserved PBMCs can be partly used as biological resources for clinical research or basic studies, but the effect of cryopreservation on PBMCs should be considered when selecting cell samples, especially in research relating to activating or inhibiting function.
Effect of the Trends of Estradiol Level on the Outcome of in Vitro Fertilization-embryo Transfer With Antagonist Regimens: a Single Center Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wei Chun-Xiao , Zhang Liang , Pang Cong-Hui , Qi Ying-Hua , Zhang Jian-Wei
Published: December 2021

Background: The outcome of in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer is often determined according to follicles and estradiol levels following gonadotropin stimulation. However, there is no accurate indicator to predict pregnancy outcome, and it has not been determined how to choose subsequent drugs and dosage based on the ovarian response. This study aimed to make timely adjustments to follow-up medication to improve clinical outcomes based on the potential value of estradiol growth rate.Methods: Serum estradiol levels were measured on the day of gonadotrophin treatment (Gn0), four days later (Gn4), seven days later (Gn7), and on the trigger day (HCG). The ratio was used to determine the increase in estradiol levels. According to the ratio of estradiol increase, the patients were divided into four groups: group A1 (Gn4/Gn0≤6.44), group A2 (6.44˂Gn4/Gn0≤10.62), group A3 (10.62˂Gn4/Gn0≤21.33), and group A4 (Gn4/Gn0>21.33); group B1 (Gn7/Gn4≤2.39), group B2 (2.39˂Gn7/Gn4≤3.03), group B3 (3.03˂Gn7/Gn4≤3.84), and group B4 (Gn7/Gn4>3.84). We analyzed and compared the relationship between data in each group and pregnancy outcome.Results: In the statistical analysis, the estradiol levels of Gn4 (P = 0.029, P = 0.042), Gn7 (P< 0.001, P = 0.001), and HCG (P< 0.001, P = 0.002), as well as the ratios of Gn4/Gn0 (P = 0.004, P = 0.006), Gn7/Gn4 (P = 0.001, P = 0.002), and HCG/Gn0 (P< 0.001, P< 0.001) both had clinical guiding significance, and the lower one significantly reduced the pregnancy rate. The outcomes were positively linked to groups A (P = 0.040, P = 0.041) and B (P = 0.015, P = 0.017). The logistical regression analysis revealed that group A1 (OR = 0.440 [0.223–0.865]; P = 0.017, OR = 0.368 [0.169–0.804]; P = 0.012) and B1 (OR = 0.261 [0.126–0.541]; P< 0.001, OR = 0.299 [0.142–0.629]; P = 0.001) had opposite influence on outcomes.Conclusion: Maintaining a serum estradiol increase ratio at least above 2.39 on Gn7/Gn4 may result in a higher pregnancy rate. When estradiol growth is not ideal, gonadotrophin dosage should be adjusted appropriately to ensure the desired outcome.
Underlying Role of Rumination-Mediated Attachment Style Plays In PTSD After TIA And Stroke
Authors: Zhou Kaiping , Zhang Linjing , Li Tonggui , Wang Weiping
Published: December 2021

Objective: Attachment and rumination was examined as intermediary variable on post-traumatic stress disorder and medication compliance in stroke or TIA patients.Methods: 300 participants with stroke or TIA form The Second Hospital of Hebei Province were selected. Patients accomplished NIHSS, ABCD2, ECR, RSQ and RRS on admission. After 3 months the PCL-C and MMAS were collected.Results: In this stroke or TIA patients, the incident of PTSD was 7.7%; PTSD scores were significantly associated with attachment anxiety (r= 0.225，p<0.01), symptom rumination (r= 0.197, p<0.01), and obsessive thinking (r=0.187, p<0.01).After Sobel test analysis and verification by Baron and Kenny (1996) 's method, we found that ruminant mediated the relationship between attachment anxiety and PTSD; obsessive thinking mediated the relationship between attachment anxiety and PTSD.Conclusions: The relationship between attachment anxiety and PTSD was positively predicted by rumination and obsessive thinking. Adult attachment style, rumination and PTSD scores may not predict medication compliance.
Elevated Plasma Level of the Glycolysis Byproduct Methylglyoxal on Admission Is an Independent Biomarker of Mortality in ICU COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Alomar Fadhel A. , Alshakhs Marai N. , Abohelaika Salah , Almarzouk Hassan M. , Almualim Mohammed , Al-Ali Amein K. , Al-Muhanna Fahad , Alomar Mohammed F. , Alhaddad Mousa J. , Almulaify Mohammed S. , Alessa Faisal S. , Alsalman Ahmed S. , Alaswad Ahmed , Bidasee Sean R. , Alsaad Hassan , Alali Rudaynah A , AlSheikh Mona H. , Akhtar Mohammed S. , Mohaini Mohammed Al , Alsalman Abdulkhaliq J. , Alturaifi Hussain , Bidasee Keshore R.
Published: December 2021

Biomarkers to identify ICU COVID-19 patients at high risk for mortality are urgently needed for therapeutic care and management. In this study we found that plasma levels of the glycolysis byproduct methylglyoxal (MG) were 4.4-fold and 1.7-fold higher (P<0.0001) upon ICU admission in patients that later died (n=34) compared to uninfected controls (n=30) and those survived (n=31), respectively. The increase in MG was inversely correlated with glutathione (r2=-0.63) and the MG-glutathione degrading glyoxalase-1 (r2=-0.50), and positively correlated with the inflammation markers, SSAO (r2 =0.52), TNF-a (r2 =0.41), IL-1b (r2 =0.25), CRP (r2 =0.26) and age (r2 =0.20). Logistic regression analysis provides evidence of a significant relationship between the elevated MG upon admission into ICU and death (P<0.0001), with 42% of the death variability explained. From these data we conclude that elevated plasma MG on admission is a novel independent biomarker that predicts ICU COVID-19 patients at high risk of mortality.
Stability Analysis of Accumulation Landslides in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area Under Reservoir Water Level Fluctuation Based on Multi-Circular Model
Authors: Fan Zhiqiang , Zheng Yanhao
Published: December 2021

In the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) area, the accumulation landslide characterized by stepped slip surfaces is widely developed, and its stability is significantly affected by the fluctuation of reservoir water level. In this paper, the Shuping landslide, a typical accumulation landslide in the TGR area, was selected to study the effect of water level fluctuations on landslide stability. Based on Multi-Circular (M-C) model, it is found that the decline of reservoir water level was the dominant factor causing the decrease of landslide stability. At the end of the decline of reservoir water level, the landslide stability was minimum and the corresponding moment was the most dangerous. The effect of the drawdown speed of reservoir water level on the minimum value of landslide stability had a threshold effect, although the minimum stability coefficient of landslide decreased with the increase of drawdown speed. Under the most dangerous water level conditions, the stability of the piled landslide increased linearly with the increase of the net thrust of piles. Also, by comparing with other classical models, the effectiveness of the M-C model in evaluating landslide stability under the dynamic changes of reservoir water level was verified. The results could provide a reliable scientific basis for improving the stability analysis and reinforcement measures of the accumulation landslide with the multi-circular slip surfaces in the TGR area, as well as can be applied to similar landslides in reservoir areas.
Delineation of Geothermal Energy Potentials in Parts of Calabar Flank, Southeastern Nigeria Using Aeromagnetic Data
Authors: Omokpariola Elshalom , Anakwuba Emmanuel
Published: December 2021

In tackling energy-related challenges in Nigeria; the exploration of an alternative source of energy (Geothermal Energy) comes to the limelight as it is generated below the earth subsurface. This work focuses on the delineation of geothermal energy potentials in parts of Calabar Flank, in southeastern Nigeria using Aeromagnetic Data. The aim is to understand the geothermal energy potentials and structural of parts of the Calabar flank by studying the various geothermal, geological, and structural parameters using Aeromagnetic Data. The methodologies applied are quantitative for structural analysis and qualitative using spectral analysis and 3D Euler Deconvolution. The study area lies between within Latitude 5°30ʹ00ʺ N - 6°30ʹ00ʺN and Longitude 7°30ʹ00ʺE - 8°30ʹ0ʺE respectively. Results from the 3D Euler analysis revealed the depth range of 0.25 Km to 4.018 Km. the spectral Analysis revealed a depth range of Magnetic source (Zt) is (-)0.564 Km to (-)0.828 Km, the Zo is (-)4.261 Km to (-)5.999Km and the average depth to basement thickness is (-)4.825 Km. The Curie Point Depth, Geothermal Gradient, and Heat flow yield an average depth of (-)9.452 Km, a value of 61.893CKm-1, and 154.983 mWm-2 from the Spectral Analysis. Some structural features such as trending faults, and fractured basements was observed at the NE-SW of the study area and this correlated to the relatively high heat flow and geothermal gradient at the NNE-SSW part is associated with thermal structures, mineralogical and tectonic history from the NE-SW trending fault in the study area is suitable for geothermal energy exploitation.
Compensatory Phenolic Induction Dynamics in Aspen After Aphid Infestation
Authors: Gaur Rajarshi Kumar , Abreu Ilka Nacif , Albrectsen Benedicte Riber
Published: December 2021

Condensed tannins (CTs) are polyphenolics and part of the total phenolic (TP) pool that shape resistance in aspen (Populus tremula). CTs negatively associate with pathogens, but their resistance properties against herbivores are less understood. Piercing, sucking arthropods, such as aphids, share similar defence pathways with pathogens suggesting that CTs could also shape resistance to aphids, potentially together with other phenolics. Being highly variable it can further be questioned whether CT-shaped resistance is better described by constitutive levels, by the induced response potential, or by both. Here, aspen genotypes were propagated and selected to represent a range of inherent abilities to produce and store foliar CTs; the plantlets were then exposed to Chaitophorus aphid infestation and to mechanical (leaf rupture) damage, and the relative abundance of constitutive and induced CTs was related to aphid fitness parameters. As expected, aphid fecundity was negatively related to CT-concentrations of the aphid infested plants although more consistently related to TPs. While TPs increased in response to damage, CT induction was generally low and it even dropped below constitutive levels in more CT-rich genotypes, suggesting that constitutive CTs are more relevant measurements of resistance compared to induced CT-levels. Relating CT and TP dynamics with phenolic low molecular compounds further suggested that catechin (the building block of CTs) increased in response to aphid damage in amounts that correlated negatively with CT-induction and positively with constitutive CT-levels and aphid fecundity. Our study portrays dynamic phenolic responses to two kinds of damage detailed for major phenylpropanoid classes and suggests that the ability of a genotype to produce and store CTs may be a measurement of resistance, caused by other, more reactive, phenolic compounds such as catechin. Rupture damage however appeared to induce catechin levels oppositely supporting that CTs may respond differently to different kinds of damage.
Mitochondrial Genome Recombination in Somatic Hybrids of Solanum Commersonii and S. Tuberosum
Authors: Cho Kwang-Soo , Lee Hyun-Oh , Lee Sang-Choon , Park Hyun-Jin , Seo Jin-Hee , Cho Ji-Hong , Park Young-Eun , Choi Jang-Gyu , Yang Tae-Jin
Published: December 2021

Interspecific somatic hybridization has been performed in potato breeding experiments to increase plant resistance against biotic and abiotic stress conditions. We analyzed the mitochondrial and plastid genomes and 45S nuclear ribosomal DNA (45S rDNA) for the cultivated potato (S. tuberosum, St), wild potato (S. commersonii, Sc), and their somatic hybrid (StSc). Complex genome components and structure, such as the hybrid form of 45S rDNA in StSc, unique plastome in Sc, and recombinant mitogenome were identified. However, the mitogenome exhibited dynamic multipartite structures in both species as well as in the somatic hybrid. In St, the mitogenome is 756,058 bp and is composed of five subgenomes ranging from 297,014 to 49,171 bp in St. In Sc, it is 552,103 bp long and is composed of two sub-genomes of 338,427 and 213,676 bp length. StSc has 447,645 bp long mitogenome with two subgenomes of length 398,439 and 49,206 bp. The mitogenome structure exhibited dynamic recombination mediated by tandem repeats; however, it contained highly conserved genes in the three species. Among the 35 protein-coding genes of the StSc mitogenome, 21 were identical for all the three species, and 12 and 2 were unique in Sc and St, respectively. The recombinant mitogenome might be derived from homologous recombination between both species during somatic hybrid development.
Warmer spring temperatures in temperate deciduous forests advance the timing of tree growth but have little effect on annual woody productivity
Authors: Anderson-Teixeira Kristina , Dow Cameron , Kim Albert ,   Loïc D'Orangeville, Gonzalez-Akre Erika , Helcoski Ryan , Herrmann Valentine , Harley Grant , Maxwell Justin , McGregor Ian , McShea William , McMahon Sean , Pederson Neil , Tepley Alan
Published: December 2021

As the climate changes, warmer spring temperatures are causing earlier leaf-out1–6 and commencement of net carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration2,4 in temperate deciduous forests, resulting in a tendency towards increased growing season length1,4,5,7–9 and annual CO2 uptake2,4,10–14. However, less is known about how spring temperatures affect tree stem growth, which sequesters carbon (C) in wood that has a long residence time in the ecosystem15,16. Using dendrometer band measurements from 463 trees across two forests, we show that warmer spring temperatures shifted the woody growth of deciduous trees earlier but had no consistent effect on peak growing season length, maximum daily growth rates, or annual growth. The latter finding was confirmed on the centennial scale by 207 tree-ring chronologies from 108 forests across eastern North America, where annual growth was far more sensitive to temperatures during the peak growing season than in the spring. These findings imply that extra CO2 uptake in years with warmer springs10–12 is not allocated to long-lived woody biomass, where it could have a substantial and lasting impact on the forest C balance. Rather, contradicting current projections from global C cycle models2,3,17,18, our empirical results imply that warming spring temperatures are unlikely to increase the woody productivity or strengthen the CO2 sink of temperate deciduous forests.
Iminodisuccinic Acid Relieved Cadmium Stress in Rapeseed Leaf by Affecting Cadmium Distribution and Cadmium Chelation With Pectin
Authors: Tian Hui , Zhu Zihan , Song Haixing , Wu Xiuwen
Published: December 2021

Rapeseed (Brassica napus. L) is a nutritious vegetable, while cadmium (Cd) pollution threatens the growth, productivity, and food security of rapeseed. By studying the effects of iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), an easily biodegradable and environmental friendly chelating agent, on Cd distribution at the organ and cellular level, we found IDS promoted dry matter accumulation of rapeseed and increased the contents of photosynthetic pigment in leaves. Inhibited root-shoot Cd transport resulted in higher activity of antioxidant enzymes and decreased hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation in leaves, which indicated that IDS contributed to alleviating Cd-caused oxidative damage in leaf cells. Additionally, IDS increased Cd distribution in cell wall (CW) and relieved Cd toxicity in organelle of leaves, while IDS did not change the contents of different CW components. The improved Cd fixation in leaf CW was mainly attributed to enhanced demethylation of covalently bound pectin (CSP) and Cd chelation with CSP.
Systematic Review on Socioeconomic and Environmental Factors of Leptospirosis
Authors: Wada Surajo Adamu , Neela Vasantha Kumari
Published: December 2021

Background: Leptospirosis is a Global emerging zoonotic tropical bacterial disease of the genus Leptospira, with high morbidity and mortality, especially in resource-limited communities. This study is a systematic review on the incidence of socioeconomic and environmental factors of human leptospirosis. Methods: The research involved published articles from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar electronic databases for nine years. It also encompasses all cases analysed for the risk factors under study reported as numerical percentage incidences. The key terms searched in the database include "leptospirosis, Leptospira, human, patients, socioeconomic, environmental, risk factors, incidence, and prevalence." The search terms from the categories were linked with "OR" and those between categories with "AND." Retrieved articles were saved as comma-separated values (CVS) files and sorted out using the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the study, and then presented in PRISMA plot.Results: PubMed search revealed 133 that reduced to 14 after eligibility screening. Scopus produced 338, of which 17 met all the inclusion criteria. Finally, ten publications were qualified for further analysis. Descriptive statistics was used to analysed the association of means of the various factors associated with leptospirosis. Association with rodents had the highest mean incidence of 52.6% among the environmental factors, whereas farming activity among the socioeconomic factors had the highest mean incidence (44.3%). Conclusion: The authority concerned should improve efforts toward health education to farmers regarding personal safety and protective equipment. They should also encourage communities to improve environmental sanitation practices to minimize rodent populations.
A New Modified MR Dual Precision Positioning of Thin-Slice Oblique Sagittal Fat Suppression Proton Density Weighted Imaging: Its Diagnostic Accuracy in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury and its Grades
Authors: Li Kun , Jhonatan Felix Young , Yu Zhaohui , Chen Jinhua , Huang Lixin , Yang Huilin , Du Jun
Published: December 2021

Purpose To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of a new modified MR dual precision positioning of thin-slice oblique sagittal fat suppression proton density-weighted imaging (DPP-TSO-Sag-FS-PDWI) sequence in detecting ACL injuries and its grades compared to standard sequences using arthroscopy as the standard reference.Materials and Methods 42 patients enrolled in this retrospective study received the 1.5-T MRI with standard sequences and the new modified DPP-TSO-Sag-FS-PDWI sequence, and their arthroscopy results was recorded. The Mc Nemer-Bowker and weighted Kappa was performed to compare the consistency of MRI diagnosis with arthroscopic results. Finally, the diagnostic accuracy was calculated based on the true positive, true negative, false negative and false positive values.Results The diagnostic consistency of the DPP-TSO-Sag-FS-PDWI were higher than standard sequences for both reader 1 (K = 0.876 vs. 0.620) and reader 2 (K = 0.833 vs. 0.683) with good diagnostic repeatability (K = 0.794 vs. 0.598). Furthermore, the DPP-TSO-Sag-FS-PDWI can classify and diagnose three grades of ACL injury [the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value were more than 84%], especially for grade II injury as the PPV was superior for reader 1 (92.3% vs. 53.9%) and reader 2 (84.6% vs. 69.2%).Conclusion The new modified DPP-TSO-Sag-FS-PDWI sequence can display the ACL injury on one or continuous levels by maximizing the acquisition of complete ligament shape and true anatomical images, and excluding the influence of anatomical differences between individuals. It can improve the diagnostic accuracy with good repeatability and classify three grades of the ACL injury.
A Simplified Methodology for Rapidly Analyzing the Effect of Multi-Hazard Scenario on Atmospheric Storage Tanks
Authors: Wang Jiajun , Weng Wenguo
Published: December 2021

Natural hazard events that trigger technical emergencies (Natech events), as a typical type of multi-hazard, have become a matter of growing concern. In particular, the occurrence of Natech events in industrial areas triggered a number of severe accidents. The present research aims at introducing a sound but simplified methodology to quickly and flexibly assess the vulnerability of atmospheric storage tanks to multiple natural disasters in Natech events. This method consists of 8 steps, relying on the simplified physical models of tank damage caused by natural disasters. The models of wind overturning tank and tank buckling caused by hail are proposed. In addition, the assessment process of tank vulnerability is demonstrated from two aspects: deterministic analysis and probabilistic analysis. The uncertain parameter set (UPS) proposed in the method and the Monte Carlo simulation method can help to purposefully analyze the impact of various parameters and this method is also a general method, which is also applicable to Natech events including other natural disasters or other types of storage tanks.
Effects of Targeted Temperature Management in Patients with Post-Cardiac Arrest Syndrome after an Out-Of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Caused by Hanging: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study in Japan
Authors: Kakizaki Ryuichiro , Bunya Naofumi , Uemura Shuji , Kasai Takehiko , Sawamoto Keigo , Mizuno Hirotoshi , Narimatsu Eichi
Published: December 2021

Background: Targeted temperature management (TTM) is recommended for unconscious patients after a cardiac arrest. However, its effectiveness in patients with post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS) by hanging remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between TTM and favorable neurological outcomes in patients with PCAS by hanging.Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) registry between June 2014 and December 2017 among patients with PCAS admitted to the hospitals after an OHCA caused by hanging. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the propensity score and to predict whether patients with PCAS by hanging receive TTM. We compared patients with PCAS by hanging who received TTM (TTM group) and those who did not (non-TTM group) using propensity score analysis.Results: A total of 199 patients with PCAS by hanging were enrolled in this study. Among them, 43 were assigned to the TTM group and 156 to the non-TTM group. Logistic regression model adjusted for propensity score revealed that TTM was not associated with favorable neurological outcome at 1-month (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.27–6.96). Moreover, no difference was observed in the propensity score-matched cohort (adjusted OR: 0, 73, 95% CI: 0.10–4.71) and in the inverse probability of treatment weighting-matched cohort (adjusted OR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.15–2.69).Conclusions: TTM was not associated with increased favorable neurological outcomes at 1-month in patients with PCAS after OHCA by hanging.
ELaPro, a LOINC-Mapped Core Dataset for Top Laboratory Procedures of Eligibility Screening for Clinical Trials
Authors: Rafee Ahmed , Riepenhausen Sarah , Neuhaus Philipp , Meidt Alexandra , Dugas Martin , Varghese Julian
Published: December 2021

Background

Screening for eligible patients continues to pose a great challenge for many clinical trials. This has led to a rapidly growing interest in standardizing computable representations of eligibility criteria (EC) in order to develop tools that leverage data from electronic health record (EHR) systems. Although laboratory procedures (LP) represent a common entity of EC that is readily available and retrievable from EHR systems, there is a lack of interoperable data models for this entity of EC. A public, specialized data model that utilizes international, widely-adopted terminology for LP, e.g. LOINC, is much needed to support automated screening tools.
Objective

The aim of this study is to establish a core dataset for LP most frequently requested to recruit patients for clinical trials using LOINC terminology. Employing such a core dataset could enhance the interface between study feasibility platforms and EHR systems and significantly improve automatic patient recruitment.
Methods

We used a semi-automated approach to analyze 10516 UMLS-annotated screening forms from the Medical Data Models (MDM) portal’s data repository. An automated semantic analysis based on concept frequency is followed by a manual expert review performed by physicians to analyze complex recruitment-relevant concepts not amenable to automatic approach.
Results

Based on analysis of 138225 EC from 10516 screening forms, 55 laboratory procedures represented 77.87% of all UMLS laboratory concept occurrences identified in the selected EC forms. We identified 26413 unique UMLS concepts from 118 UMLS semantic types and covered the vast majority of MeSH disease domains.
Conclusions

Only a small set of LP cover the majority of laboratory concepts in screening EC. The results prove the feasibility of establishing a core dataset for a group of LP common to most EC forms. We present ELaPro (Eligibility Laboratory Procedures), a novel, LOINC-mapped, core dataset for the most frequent 55 LP requested in screening for clinical trials in multiple machine-readable data formats.
Intramyocardial Injected Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (Hucmscs ) Contribute to the Recovery of Cardiac Function and the Migration of CD4+ T Cells into the Infarcted Heart via CCL5/CCR5 Signaling
Authors: Liu Jing , Liang Xiaoting , Li Mimi , Lin Fang , Ma Xiaoxue , Xin Yuanfeng , Meng Qingshu , Zhuang Rulin , Zhang Qingliu , Han Wei , He Zhiying , Zhou Xiaohui , Liu Zhongmin
Published: December 2021

Background: Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HucMSCs) have been recognized as a promising cell for treating myocardial infarction (MI). Inflammatory response post MI is critical in determining the cardiac function and subsequent adverse left ventricular remodeling. However, the local inflammatory effect of HucMSCs after intramyocardial injection in murine remains unclear. Methods: HucMSCs were cultured and transplanted into the mice after MI surgery. Cardiac function, angiogenesis, fibrosis and hypertrophy, and immune cells infiltration were evaluated between MI-N.S and MI-HucMSC groups. We detected the expression of inflammatory cytokines and their effects on CD4+ T cells migration. Results: HucMSCs treatment can significantly improve the cardiac function and some cells can survive at least 28 days after MI. Intramyocardial administration of HucMSCs also improved angiogenesis and alleviated cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy. Moreover, we found the much higher numbers of CD4+ T cells and CD4+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells in the heart with HucMSC than that with N.S treatment on day 7 post MI. In addition, the protein level of C-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 5 (CCL5) greatly increased in the HucMSCs treated heart compared to the control. In vitro, HucMSCs inhibited CD4+ T cells migration and addition of CCL5 antibody or C-C Motif Chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) antagonist significantly reversed this effect. Conclusion: These findings indicated that HucMSCs contributed to cardiac functional recovery and attenuated cardiac remodeling post MI. Intramyocardial injection of HucMSCs upregulated the CD4+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells and contributed to the migration of CD4+ T cells into the injured heart via CCL5/CCR5 pathway.
The Effects of a Single Blood Donation on the Lipid Profile, Iron Storage and Enzymatic Antioxidants
Authors: Kharaz Abdulrhman , Aljohani Abdulaziz , Almalki Abdullah , Alnawajha Mostafa , Alnozha Omar , Aloufi Faisal , Mirza Ahmed A.
Published: December 2021

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a global illness causing 31% of global mortality. Though many factors contribute to CVD, oxidative stress advances atherosclerosis through several complementary components, such as the initiation of lipid peroxidation by iron. Blood donation may decrease the risk of CVD due to reducing the iron level. Literature reported that blood donors have a lower risk of CVD, possibly due to the lower iron levels. Various effects of blood donation are involved in preventing type II diabetes. However, little is known of the exact mechanism of the benefits of blood donation. In this study, samples were collected from 33 healthy male participants pre- (1 day) and post-donation (1 day, 1, 2 and 3 weeks) and the effect of the blood donation on the iron, lipids and enzymatic antioxidants profiles were assessed. A repeated-measures ANOVA was used for comparing the quantitative variables between the visits. We found that the iron decreased significantly by week 1 (–25.3%). Ferritin decreased significantly at weeks 1, 2, and 3 (–26.3%, –40.3%, –36.7%, respectively). The superoxide dismutase increased significantly at post-donation day 1, weeks 1, 2, and 3 (17.9%,35.7%, 31.1%, 36.6%, respectively) and in correlation with time [r (165) = 0.50, P <0 .01]. Glutathione peroxide decreased significantly at week 1 (–25.0%). Glutathione reductase decreased significantly 1-day post donation (–5.7%) then increased over the next three weeks [r (165) = 0.3, P <0.01]. Finally, the lipids were significantly reduced 24 hours after the donation but not at week 1, 2 and 3. We conclude that blood donation, resulting in a lowered body iron concentration, is an effective way to increase superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase, which prevent the initiation of lipid oxidation. Our results could be used to advocate for the benefits of blood donation. However, further studies are required to assess the role of blood donation in plaque formation and arteriosclerosis.