bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aqueous Electrodeposition of SmCo Alloys: II. Direct Current Studies
Authors: Wei Jei C. , Schwartz Morton , Nobe Ken , Myung Nosang V.
Published: September 2021

Previously, we reported the aqueous electrodeposition of rare earth - iron group alloys. A key factor was the complexation of the metal ions with various coordination compounds (e.g., aminoacetic acids), without which only the ferrous metal and rare earth hydroxides/oxides are deposited. In this work, samarium cobalt (SmCo) alloys were synthesized using direct current (DC) aqueous electrodeposition. The basic electrolyte solution consisted of 1 M samarium sulfamate, 0.05 M cobalt sulfate, and 0.15 M glycine, resulting in deposits containing >30 at% Sm at 60°C with current density of 500 mA/cm2. Supporting electrolytes (i.e., ammonium salts) decreased the Sm content in the deposit. Crystallinity of deposited films altered from nanocrystalline to amorphous as the Sm content increased. Deposits with high Sm content (32 at%) became isotropic with reduction in magnetic saturation (Ms) and coercivity (Hc). A deposition mechanism involving stepwise reduction of the complexed Sm-Co ions by depositing hydrogen atoms was proposed.
The “DOLPHINS” Project: A Low-Cost Real-Time Multivariate Process Control From Large Sensor Arrays Providing Sparse Binary Data
Authors: Alladio Eugenio , Baricco Marcello , Leogrande Vincenzo , Pagliari Renato , Pozzi Fabio , Foglio Paolo , Vincenti Marco
Published: September 2021

The “DOLPHINS” project started in 2018 under a collaboration between three partners: CNH Industrial Iveco (CHNi), RADA (an informatics company), and the Chemistry Department of the University of Turin. The project’s main aim was to establish a predictive maintenance method in real-time at a pilot plant (CNHi Iveco, Brescia, Italy). This project currently allows maintenance technicians to intervene on machinery preventively, avoiding breakdowns or stops in the production process. For this purpose, several predictive maintenance models were tested starting from databases on programmable logic controllers (PLCs) already available, thus taking advantage of Machine Learning techniques without investing additional resources in purchasing or installing new sensors. The instrumentation and PLCs related to the truck sides’ paneling phase were considered at the beginning of the project. The instrumentation under evaluation was equipped with sensors already connected to PLCs (only on/off switches, i.e., neither analog sensors nor continuous measurements are available, and the data are in sparse binary format) so that the data provided by PLCs were acquired in a binary way before being processed by multivariate data analysis (MDA) models. Several MDA approaches were tested (e.g., PCA, PLS-DA, SVM, XGBoost, and SIMCA) and validated in the plant (in terms of repeated double cross-validation strategies). The optimal approach currently used involves combining PCA and SIMCA models, whose performances are continuously monitored, and the various models are updated and tested weekly. Tuning the time range predictions enabled the shop floor and the maintenance operators to achieve sensitivity and specificity values higher than 90%, but the performance results are constantly improved since new data are collected daily. Furthermore, the information on where to carry out intervention is provided to the maintenance technicians between 30 min and 3 h before the breakdown.
Low-Order Scaling Quasiparticle Self-Consistent GW for Molecules
Authors: Förster Arno , Visscher Lucas
Published: September 2021

Low-order scaling GW implementations for molecules are usually restricted to approximations with diagonal self-energy. Here, we present an all-electron implementation of quasiparticle self-consistent GW for molecular systems. We use an efficient algorithm for the evaluation of the self-energy in imaginary time, from which a static non-local exchange-correlation potential is calculated via analytical continuation. By using a direct inversion of iterative subspace method, fast and stable convergence is achieved for almost all molecules in the GW100 database. Exceptions are systems which are associated with a breakdown of the single quasiparticle picture in the valence region. The implementation is proven to be starting point independent and good agreement of QP energies with other codes is observed. We demonstrate the computational efficiency of the new implementation by calculating the quasiparticle spectrum of a DNA oligomer with 1,220 electrons using a basis of 6,300 atomic orbitals in less than 4 days on a single compute node with 16 cores. We use then our implementation to study the dependence of quasiparticle energies of DNA oligomers consisting of adenine-thymine pairs on the oligomer size. The first ionization potential in vacuum decreases by nearly 1 electron volt and the electron affinity increases by 0.4 eV going from the smallest to the largest considered oligomer. This shows that the DNA environment stabilizes the hole/electron resulting from photoexcitation/photoattachment. Upon inclusion of the aqueous environment via a polarizable continuum model, the differences between the ionization potentials reduce to 130 meV, demonstrating that the solvent effectively compensates for the stabilizing effect of the DNA environment. The electron affinities of the different oligomers are almost identical in the aqueous environment.
Shielding Unit Engineering of NIR-II Molecular Fluorophores for Improved Fluorescence Performance and Renal Excretion Ability
Authors: Liu Chunchen , Ma Huilong , Hu Zhubin , Tian Rui , Ma Rui , Xu Yifan , Wang Xinyuan , Zhu Xingfu , Yu Panpan , Zhu Shoujun , Sun Haitao , Liang Yongye
Published: September 2021

Molecular fluorophores emitting in the second near-infrared (NIR-II) window with good renal excretion ability are favorable for in vivo bio-imaging and clinical applications. So far, renally excretable fluorophores are still less studied. Understanding the influences of molecular structure on optical properties and renal excretion abilities are vital for fluorophore optimization. Herein, a series of shielding unit-donor-acceptor-donor-shielding unit (S-D-A-D-S) NIR-II molecular fluorophores are designed and synthesized with dialkoxy chains substituted benzene as the S unit. The anchoring positions of dialkoxy chains on benzene are tuned as meso-2,6, para-2,5, or ortho-3,4 to afford three fluorophores: BGM6P, BGP6P and BGO6P, respectively. Experimental and calculation results reveal that alkoxy side chains anchored closer to the conjugated backbone can provide better protection from water molecules and PEG chains, affording higher fluorescence quantum yield (QY) in aqueous solutions. Further, these side chains can enable good encapsulation of backbone, resulting in decreased binding with albumin and improved renal excretion. Thus, fluorophore BGM6P with meso-2,6-dialkoxy chains exhibits the highest quantum yield and fastest renal excretion. This work emphasizes the important roles of side chain patterns on optimizing NIR-II fluorophores with high brightness and renal excretion ability.
Photodynamic Therapy Is Effective Against Candida auris Biofilms
Authors: Bapat Priyanka S. , Nobile Clarissa J.
Published: September 2021

Fungal infections are increasing in prevalence worldwide. The paucity of available antifungal drug classes, combined with the increased occurrence of multidrug resistance in fungi, has led to new clinical challenges in the treatment of fungal infections. Candida auris is a recently emerged multidrug resistant human fungal pathogen that has become a worldwide public health threat. C. auris clinical isolates are often resistant to one or more antifungal drug classes, and thus, there is a high unmet medical need for the development of new therapeutic strategies effective against C. auris. Additionally, C. auris possesses several virulence traits, including the ability to form biofilms, further contributing to its drug resistance, and complicating the treatment of C. auris infections. Here we assessed red, green, and blue visible lights alone and in combination with photosensitizing compounds for their efficacies against C. auris biofilms. We found that (1) blue light inhibited and disrupted C. auris biofilms on its own and that the addition of photosensitizing compounds improved its antibiofilm potential; (2) red light inhibited and disrupted C. auris biofilms, but only in combination with photosensitizing compounds; and (3) green light inhibited C. auris biofilms in combination with photosensitizing compounds, but had no effects on disrupting C. auris biofilms. Taken together, our findings suggest that photodynamic therapy could be an effective non-drug therapeutic strategy against multidrug resistant C. auris biofilm infections.
Myrislignan Induces Redox Imbalance and Activates Autophagy in Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Zhang Jili , Chen Jia , Lv Kun , Li Bing , Yan Biqing , Gai Lei , Shi Chaolu , Wang Xinnian , Si Hongfei , Zhang Jiyu
Published: September 2021

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an important health problem in human and animals, and the highlighting side effects of launched therapeutic chemicals cannot be ignored. Thus, it is urgent to develop new drugs to against the infection. Myrislignan originated from nutmeg exhibited excellent anti-T. gondii activity in vitro and in vivo, and was able to destroy mitochondrial function. However, the exact mechanism of action is still unknown. In this study, combining RNAs deep-sequencing analysis and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and high affinity proteins suggested that myrislignan may affect the oxidation-reduction process of T. gondii. Furthermore, the upregulating ROS activity after myrislignan incubation verified that myrislignan destroyed the oxidant-antioxidant homeostasis of tachyzoites. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicated that myrislignan induced the formation of autophagosome-like double-membrane structure. Moreover, monodansyl cadaverine (MDC) staining and western blot further illustrated autophagosome formation. Myrislignan treatment induced a significant reduction in T. gondii by flow cytometry analysis. Together, these findings demonstrated that myrislignan can induce the oxidation-reduction in T. gondii, lead to the autophagy, and cause the death of T. gondii.
Trends in Local Ecosystem Governance
Authors: Bork Karrigan , Hirokawa Keith
Published: September 2021

The physical and biological factors that together determine ecosystem structure and function will be subject to enormous pressures under future climate regimes. These pressures will impact ecosystem processes and services, ranging from impacts on biodiversity to loss of essential ecosystem benefits. Ecosystem management to maintain desired ecosystem conditions will become increasingly important. Existing governance structures are insufficient to provide the necessary guidance for these management efforts. The legal literature is increasingly focused on local ecosystem governance as a viable option to fill this governance gap. For example, increasing recognition of the value of ecosystem services to local communities has driven increased efforts to protect those services through local ecosystem initiatives. The local ecosystem governance scholarship is diffuse, making the literature difficult to access. Based on a review of the legal literature on local ecosystem governance over the last 20 years, this article marshals the theoretical arguments for and against local governance and identifies ongoing efforts to implement local ecosystem governance. The article also identifies both emerging challenges to local ecosystem governance and potential ways to address those challenges. From this review emerges actionable recommendations and critical research needs to improve local ecosystem governance.
Robot Concept Acquisition Based on Interaction Between Probabilistic and Deep Generative Models
Authors: Kuniyasu Ryo , Nakamura Tomoaki , Taniguchi Tadahiro , Nagai Takayuki
Published: September 2021

We propose a method for multimodal concept formation. In this method, unsupervised multimodal clustering and cross-modal inference, as well as unsupervised representation learning, can be performed by integrating the multimodal latent Dirichlet allocation (MLDA)-based concept formation and variational autoencoder (VAE)-based feature extraction. Multimodal clustering, representation learning, and cross-modal inference are critical for robots to form multimodal concepts from sensory data. Various models have been proposed for concept formation. However, in previous studies, features were extracted using manually designed or pre-trained feature extractors and representation learning was not performed simultaneously. Moreover, the generative probabilities of the features extracted from the sensory data could be predicted, but the sensory data could not be predicted in the cross-modal inference. Therefore, a method that can perform clustering, feature learning, and cross-modal inference among multimodal sensory data is required for concept formation. To realize such a method, we extend the VAE to the multinomial VAE (MNVAE), the latent variables of which follow a multinomial distribution, and construct a model that integrates the MNVAE and MLDA. In the experiments, the multimodal information of the images and words acquired by a robot was classified using the integrated model. The results demonstrated that the integrated model can classify the multimodal information as accurately as the previous model despite the feature extractor learning in an unsupervised manner, suitable image features for clustering can be learned, and cross-modal inference from the words to images is possible.
Pediatric Mechanical Circulatory Support: Pathophysiology of Pediatric Hemostasis and Available Options
Authors: Giorni Chiara , Rizza Alessandra , Favia Isabella , Amodeo Antonio , Chiusolo Fabrizio , Picardo Sergio G. , Luciani Matteo , Di Felice Giovina , Di Chiara Luca
Published: September 2021

Pediatric mechanical circulatory support (MCS) is considered a strategy for heart failure management as a bridge to recovery and transplantation or as a destination therapy. The final outcome is significantly impacted by the number of complications that may occur during MCS. Children on ventricular assist devices (VADs) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are at high risk for bleeding and thrombotic complications that are managed through anticoagulation. The first detailed guideline in pediatric VADs (Edmonton Anticoagulation and Platelet Inhibition Protocol) was based on conventional antithrombotic drugs, such as unfractionated heparin (UFH) and warfarin. UFH is the first-line anticoagulant in pediatric MCS, although its profile is not considered optimal in pediatric setting. The broad variation in heparin doses among children is associated with frequent occurrence of cerebrovascular accidents, bleeding, and thrombocytopenia. Direct thrombin inhibitors (DTIs) have been utilized as alternative strategies to heparin. Since 2018, bivalirudin has become the chosen anticoagulant in the long-term therapy of patients undergoing MCS implantation, according to the most recent protocols shared in North America. This article provides a review of the non-traditional anticoagulation strategies utilized in pediatric MCS, focusing on pharmacodynamics, indications, doses, and monitoring aspects of bivalirudin. Moreover, it exposes the efforts and the collaborations among different specialized centers, which are committed to an ongoing learning in order to minimize major complications in this special pediatric population. Further prospective trials regarding DTIs in a pediatric MCS setting are necessary and in specific well-designed randomized control trials between UFH and bivalirudin. To conclude, based on the reported literature, the clinical use of the bivalirudin in pediatric MCS seems to be a value added in controlling and maybe reducing thromboembolic complications. Further research is necessary to confirm all the results provided by this literature review.
Left Ventricular Global Function Index and the Impact of its Companion Metric
Authors: Diaz-Navarro Rienzi A. , Kerkhof Peter L. M.
Published: September 2021

Left ventricular (LV) global function index (LVGFI) has been introduced as a volume-based composite metric for evaluation of ventricular function. The definition formula combines stroke volume (SV), end-systolic volume (ESV), end-diastolic volume (EDV) and LV mass/density. Being a dimensionless ratio, this new metric has serious limitations which require evaluation at a mathematical and clinical level. Using CMRI in 96 patients we studied LV volumes, various derived metrics and global longitudinal strain (GLS) in order to further characterize LVGFI in three diagnostic groups: acute myocarditis, takotsubo cardiomyopathy and acute myocardial infarction. We also considered the LVGFI companion (C), derived from the quadratic mean. Additional metrics such as ejection fraction (EF), myocardial contraction fraction (MCF) and ventriculo-arterial coupling (VAC), along with their companions (MCFC and VACC) were calculated. All companion metrics (EFC, LVGFIC, MCFC, and VACC) showed sex-specific differences, not clearly reflected by the corresponding ratio-based metrics. LVGFI is mathematically coupled to both EF (with R = 0.86) and VAC (R = 0.87), which observation clarifies why these metrics not only share similar prognostic values but also identical shortcomings. We found that the newly introduced LVGFIC has incremental value compared to the single use of LVGFI, EF, or GLS, when characterizing the three patient groups.
Knockdown of lnc-KCNC3-3:1 Alleviates the Development of Atherosclerosis via Downregulation of JAK1/STAT3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Sun Limin , He Xin , Zhang Tao , Tao Guizhou , Wang Xin
Published: September 2021

Background: Atherosclerosis is a major cause of coronary artery disease (CAD), and CAD is one of the main causes leading to death in most countries. It has been reported that lncRNAs play important roles in the development of atherosclerosis; thus, we aimed to explore lncRNAs that are closely related to the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis.

Methods: The data GSE113079 from the GEO database was used to explore the dysregulated lncRNAs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) between 93 patients with CAD and 48 healthy controls. Next, RT-qPCR was performed to detect the level of lncRNAs in HUVEC cells and CCK-8 was performed to detect cell viability. Then, flow cytometry assays were used to determine the apoptosis of HUVEC. In addition, ELISA assay was used to measure the concentrations of triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein cholesterin (LDL-C), and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Moreover, western blot assay was used to detect the expression of proteins.

Results: lnc-KCNC3-3:1 was significantly upregulated in PBMCs of patients with CAD. In addition, oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL) notably inhibited the proliferation and induced the apoptosis of HUVEC, while this phenomenon was notably reversed by lnc-KCNC3-3:1 knockdown. Moreover, oxLDL significantly promoted the migration of HUVECs, which was significantly restored by knockdown of lnc-KCNC3-3:1. Moreover, lnc-KCNC3-3:1 siRNA1 could reverse oxLDL-induced HUVEC growth inhibition, and lnc-KCNC3-3:1 silencing could inhibit the expressions of p-JAK1 and p-STAT3 in oxLDL-treated HUVECs. Animal study revealed that knockdown of lnc-KCNC3-3:1 alleviated the symptom of atherosclerosis, and it could inhibit the expressions of p-JAK1, p-STAT3 and p-Akt in tissues of atherosclerosis mice.

Conclusion: Knockdown of lnc-KCNC3-3:1 alleviates the development of atherosclerosis via downregulation of JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway. These data indicated that lnc-KCNC3-3:1 might serve as a potential target for the treatment of atherosclerosis.
Malignant Gastrointestinal Neuroectodermal Tumor in the Right Heart: A Report of an Extremely Rare Case Presenting With a Cardiac Mass
Authors: Li Zhiwen , Pu Xiaohong , He Lu , Fu Yao , Li Lin , Xu Yuemei , Guan Wenyan , Fan Xiangshan
Published: September 2021

Malignant gastrointestinal neuroectodermal tumor (GNET) is an extremely rare soft tissue sarcoma and has been designated as a new entity recently. At present, GNET virtually exclusively occurs in the gastrointestinal tract. Here we report a case of extra-GNET that arose in the right heart. A 62-year-old male complained of chest distress and breathing difficulty while lying down at night for over 1 month at admission. The radiological findings revealed an occupying lesion involving the right atrium and the right ventricle without any abdominal abnormalities. The patient then underwent a surgical resection. Microscopically, neoplastic cells proliferated in the pattern of nests and sheets with fibrous separation. Focal areas with cellular dyscohesion imparted a vague pseudopapillary pattern. These tumor cells were small to medium in size with fine chromatin and predominantly pale eosinophilic cytoplasm. The nuclei were typically round to oval with somewhat irregular contours and contained small nucleoli. The mitotic figures were easily found. Immunohistochemically, the neoplastic cells were positive for S100 and SOX-10 but negative for HMB-45, A103, and CD99. EWSR1–AFTF1 rearrangement was detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization and further confirmed by whole-transcriptome sequence analysis. The patient had pulmonary metastasis 8 months later and soon died of the disease. The overall survival of the patient was 20 months. In summary, we reported an extremely rare case of cardiac GNET, indicating that the location of GNET should not be confined to the GI tract as initially defined. Due to the lack of a specific effective treatment and the occurrence of early metastasis, cardiac GNET conferred a poor prognosis. More clinical and experimental studies are warranted to better manage this disease in the future.
Left Atrioventricular Coupling Index to Predict Incident Heart Failure: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Pezel Theo , Ambale Venkatesh Bharath , Kato Yoko , De Vasconcellos Henrique Doria , Heckbert Susan R. , Wu Colin O. , Post Wendy S. , Bluemke David A. , Cohen-Solal Alain , Henry Patrick , Lima João A. C.
Published: September 2021

Background: Although left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) structural and functional parameters have independent prognostic value as predictors of heart failure (HF), the close physiological relationship between the LA and LV suggest that the assessment of LA/LV coupling could better reflect left atrioventricular dysfunction and be a better predictor of HF.

Aim: We investigated the prognostic value of a left atrioventricular coupling index (LACI), measured by cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), as well as change in LACI to predict incident HF in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA).

Materials and Methods: In the MESA, 2,250 study participants, free of clinically recognized HF and cardiovascular disease (CVD) at baseline, had LACI assessed by CMR imaging at baseline (Exam 1, 2000–2002), and 10 years later (Exam 5, 2010–2012). Left atrioventricular coupling index was defined as the ratio of LA to LV end-diastolic volumes. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the associations of LACI and average annualized change in LACI (ΔLACI) with incident HF after adjustment for traditional MESA-HF risk factors. The incremental risk prediction was calculated using C-statistic, categorical net reclassification index (NRI) and integrative discrimination index (IDI).

Results: Among the 2,250 participants (mean age 59.3 ± 9.3 years and 47.6% male participants), 50 incident HF events occurred over 6.8 ± 1.3 years after the second CMR exam. After adjustment, greater LACI and ΔLACI were independently associated with HF (adjusted HR 1.44, 95% CI [1.25–1.66] and adjusted HR 1.55, 95% CI [1.30–1.85], respectively; both p < 0.0001). Adjusted models for LACI showed significant improvement in model discrimination and reclassification compared to currently used HF risk score model for predicting HF incidence (C-statistic: 0.81 vs. 0.77; NRI = 0.411; IDI = 0.043). After adjustment, ΔLACI showed also significant improvement in model discrimination compared to the multivariable model with traditional MESA-HF risk factors for predicting incident HF (C-statistic: 0.82 vs. 0.77; NRI = 0.491; IDI = 0.058).

Conclusions: In a multi-ethnic population, atrioventricular coupling (LACI), and coupling change (ΔLACI) are independently associated with incident HF. Both have incremental prognostic value for predicting HF events over traditional HF risk factors.
Misuse of Aspirin and Associated Factors for the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Chen Yinong , Yin Chun , Li Qing , Yu Luyao , Zhu Longyang , Hu Dayi , Sun Yihong
Published: September 2021

Background: The value of aspirin for primary prevention continues to be debated. Data showing whether aspirin use for primary prevention adheres to established guidelines in real world practice are sparse.

Methods: A total of 13,104 patients without cardiovascular diseases (CVD) were selected from the DYS-lipidemia International Study of China, a national survey of patients with dyslipidemia in 2012. The CVD risk of the participants were calculated using the 10-year risk of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases model. The misuse of aspirin for primary prevention was defined as having CVD risk <10% with daily aspirin. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to explore risk factors associated with aspirin misuse.

Results: The proportion of the patients categorized as low, moderate and high risk for CVD were 52.9, 21.6, and 25.4% respectively. The misuse frequency of aspirin was 31.0% (2,147/6,933) in patients with low risk. The misuse of aspirin increased with aging for both men and women. In the multivariate analysis, the independent risk factors associated with aspirin misuse were hypertension, diabetes mellitus, a family history of premature CVD, and elderly age. Level of total cholesterol is negatively associated with aspirin misuse. Patients from low level hospitals are more likely to be taking aspirin inappropriately. Results remained consistent after including 2,837 patients having 10-year risk for CVD between 10 and <20%.

Conclusion: The misuse of aspirin for primary prevention is common in patients having CVD risk <10%. There are important opportunities to improve evidence-based aspirin use for the primary prevention of CVD in Chinese patients.

Clinical Trial Registration:https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier [NCT01732952].
The Utility of Advanced Cardiovascular Imaging in Cancer Patients—When, Why, How, and the Latest Developments
Authors: Yu Christopher , Pathan Faraz , Tan Timothy C. , Negishi Kazuaki
Published: September 2021

Cardio-oncology encompasses the risk stratification, prognostication, identification and management of cancer therapeutics related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD). Cardiovascular imaging (CVI) plays a significant role in each of these scenarios and has broadened from predominantly quantifying left ventricular function (specifically ejection fraction) to the identification of earlier bio-signatures of CTRCD. Recent data also demonstrate the impact of chemotherapy on the right ventricle, left atrium and pericardium and highlight a possible role for CVI in the identification of CTRCD through tissue characterization and assessment of these cardiac chambers. This review aims to provide a contemporary perspective on the role of multi-modal advanced cardiac imaging in cardio-oncology.
Correlation Analysis of Hemoglobin-to-Red Blood Cell Distribution Width Ratio and Frailty in Elderly Patients With Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Qu Jiling , Zhou Ting , Xue Mengxin , Sun Huiping , Shen Yijing , Chen Yuhui , Tang Lei , Qian Lin , You Jiachun , Yang Ruohan , Liu Yongbing
Published: September 2021

Background:Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a common chronic disease in the elderly. Frailty can accelerate the development of CHD and lead to adverse health outcomes. Risk prediction and decision-making for frailty are crucial. The peripheral hemoglobin-to-red blood cell distribution width ratio (HRR) is a novel biomarker of inflammation. Our purpose was to explore the correlation between HRR and frailty in elderly patients with CHD.

Methods:This cross-sectional study evaluated 245 Chinese hospitalized patients with CHD. Blood parameters measured upon admission were obtainedviathe hospital electronic information medical record system. The Fried Frailty Phenotype Scale was used to evaluate the frailty status of the participants. The Receiver operating characteristic curve was used to determine the optimal cut-off values of HRR. We used univariate analysis to examine the potential factors affecting frailty. Kendall's tau-b grade correlation was used to analyze the correlation between HRR and frailty. The ordered logistic regression model was used to analyze the relationship between HRR and frailty.

Results:A total of 233 elderly patients with CHD were included in our study. Among the patients, 33.48% (78) were in a state of frailty. The optimal cut-off values of HRR was 9.76. The area under the curve (AUC) for HRR in the frailty patients was 0.652, exceed Hb (AUC = 0.618) and RDW (AUC = 0.650). Kendall's tau-b grade correlation analysis showed that HRR (K = −0.296,P< 0.001) was negatively correlated with frailty. The ordered logistic regression analysis determined that lower HRR was associated with frailty (P< 0.05) after adjusted for age, body mass index, number of drugs, comorbidity index, heart failure, red blood cells, albumin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low density lipoprotein cholesterol.

Conclusion:Lower HRR is an independent risk factor for frailty in elderly hospitalized patients with CHD. HRR was a more powerful prognostic indicator for frailty than either Hb or RDW alone. Clinicians should focus on timely identification of the risk of frailty in order to improve patient quality of life and to reduce the risk of complications.
Optimizing Outcomes in Cardiac Rehabilitation: The Importance of Exercise Intensity
Authors: Taylor Jenna L. , Bonikowske Amanda R. , Olson Thomas P.
Published: September 2021

Exercise based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is recognized internationally as a class 1 clinical practice recommendation for patients with select cardiovascular diseases and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Over the past decade, several meta-analyses have generated debate regarding the effectiveness of exercise-based CR for reducing all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. A common theme highlighted in these meta-analyses is the heterogeneity and/or lack of detail regarding exercise prescription methodology within CR programs. Currently there is no international consensus on exercise prescription for CR, and exercise intensity recommendations vary considerably between countries from light-moderate intensity to moderate intensity to moderate-vigorous intensity. As cardiorespiratory fitness [peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak)] is a strong predictor of mortality in patients with coronary heart disease and heart failure, exercise prescription that optimizes improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness and exercise capacity is a critical consideration for the efficacy of CR programming. This review will examine the evidence for prescribing higher-intensity aerobic exercise in CR, including the role of high-intensity interval training. This discussion will highlight the beneficial physiological adaptations to pulmonary, cardiac, vascular, and skeletal muscle systems associated with moderate-vigorous exercise training in patients with coronary heart disease and heart failure. Moreover, this review will propose how varying interval exercise protocols (such as short-duration or long-duration interval training) and exercise progression models may influence central and peripheral physiological adaptations. Importantly, a key focus of this review is to provide clinically-relevant recommendations and strategies to optimize prescription of exercise intensity while maximizing safety in patients attending CR programs.
High Level of Uromodulin Increases the Risk of Hypertension: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: You Ruilian , Chen Lanlan , Xu Lubin , Zhang Dingding , Li Haitao , Shi Xiaoxiao , Zheng Yali , Chen Limeng
Published: September 2021

Background: The association of uromodulin and hypertension has been observed in clinical studies, but not proven by a causal relationship. We conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causal relationship between uromodulin and blood pressure.

Methods: We selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to urinary uromodulin (uUMOD) and serum uromodulin (sUMOD) from a large Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) meta-analysis study and research in PubMed. Six datasets based on the UK Biobank and the International Consortium for Blood Pressure (ICBP) served as outcomes with a large sample of hypertension (n = 46,188), systolic blood pressure (SBP, n = 1,194,020), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP, n = 1,194,020). The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was performed in uUMOD MR analysis, while methods of IVW, MR-Egger, Weighted median, and Mendelian Randomization Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO) were utilized on sUMOD MR analysis.

Results: MR analysis of IVM showed the odds ratio (OR) of the uUMOD to hypertension (“ukb-b-14057” and “ukb-b-14177”) is 1.04 (95% Confidence Interval (CI), 1.03-1.04, P < 0.001); the effect sizes of the uUMOD to SBP are 1.10 (Standard error (SE) = 0.25, P = 8.92E-06) and 0.03 (SE = 0.01, P = 2.70E-04) in “ieu-b-38” and “ukb-b-20175”, respectively. The β coefficient of the uUMOD to DBP is 0.88 (SE = 0.19, P = 4.38E-06) in “ieu-b-39” and 0.05 (SE = 0.01, P = 2.13E-10) in “ukb-b-7992”. As for the sUMOD, the OR of hypertension (“ukb-b-14057” and “ukb-b-14177”) is 1.01 (95% CI 1.01–1.02, all P < 0.001). The β coefficient of the SBP is 0.37 (SE = 0.07, P = 1.26E-07) in “ieu-b-38” and 0.01 (SE = 0.003, P = 1.04E-04) in “ukb-b-20175”. The sUMOD is causally associated with elevated DBP (“ieu-b-39”: β = 0.313, SE = 0.050, P = 3.43E-10; “ukb-b-7992”: β = 0.018, SE = 0.003, P = 8.41E-09).

Conclusion: Our results indicated that high urinary and serum uromodulin levels are potentially detrimental in elevating blood pressure, and serve as a causal risk factor for hypertension.
Trend and Impact of Concomitant CABG and Multiple-Valve Procedure on In-hospital Outcomes of SAVR Patients
Authors: Wu Jing , Cong Xiaoqiang , Lou Zhiyang , Zhang Mingyou
Published: September 2021

Background: The trends of concomitant CABG and multiple-valve procedures and their impact on in-hospital outcomes in the context of transcatheter aortic valve replacement are unexplored.

Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study using the administrative database of the U.S. national inpatient sample from 2012 to 2018 to identify patients who underwent SAVR with or without concomitant CABG and/or multiple-valve procedures.

Results: During the study period, a total of 75,763 representing 378,815 patients underwent SAVR nationwide were identified, of whom 42,993 (55.1%) experienced isolated SAVR, 27,133 (34.8%) underwent concomitant CABG, 5,637 (7.2%) underwent multiple-valve procedures, and 2,298 (2.9%) underwent both concomitant CABG and multiple-valve procedures. The rate of multiple-valve procedures increased from 6.1% in 2012 to 9.2% in 2018 (P < 0.001 for trend). In-hospital mortality was 2.1, 3.9, 7.3, and 11.2% for isolated SAVR, SAVR with CABG, SAVR with multiple-valve procedures, and SAVR with CABG and multiple-valve procedures, respectively. After propensity matching, compared to isolated SAVR, the risk ratio for in-hospital mortality associated with concomitant CABG was 1.54 (CI 1.39-1.70). In multiple-valve procedures, it was 2.36 (CI 1.97-2.83), and in concomitant CABG and multiple-valve procedures, it was 2.92 (CI 2.29-3.73).

Conclusions: The proportion of patients receiving multiple-valve procedures is increasing. While concomitant CABG moderately increased in-hospital mortality, multiple-valve procedures dramatically increased in-hospital mortality and complications, even after propensity score matching
Measuring Distortion-Product Otoacoustic Emission With a Single Loudspeaker in the Ear: Stimulus Design and Signal Processing Techniques
Authors: Hsiao Wei-Chen , Chen Yung-Ching , Liu Yi-Wen
Published: September 2021

The distortion-product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) is a backward propagating wave generated inside the cochlea during the wave amplification process. The DPOAE signal can be detected rapidly under relatively noisy conditions. In recent years, the earphone industry demonstrated interest in adopting DPOAE as an add-on feature to make their product “intelligent” of inner-ear status. However, a technical challenge remains to be tackled—the loudspeaker in an earphone generates its own cubic distortion at the same frequency as DPOAE. Unfortunately, the intensity of loudspeaker distortion is typically comparable to that of the DPOAE, if not higher. In this research, we propose two strategies, namely compensation and cancellation, to enable DPOAE measurement with a single loudspeaker. The compensation strategy exploits the part of the growth function of the loudspeaker distortion which is almost linear, and thus suppresses the distortion it generates while retaining a larger portion of DPOAE in the residual signal. The cancellation strategy utilizes a one-dimensional Volterra filter to remove the cubic distortion from the loudspeaker. Testing on normal-hearing ears shows that the compensation strategy improved the DPOAE-to-interference ratio by approximately 7 dB, resulting in a cross-correlation of 0.62 between the residual DPOAE level and the true DPOAE level. Meanwhile, the cancellation strategy directly recovered both the magnitude and the phase of DPOAE, reducing the magnitude estimation error from 15.5 dB to 3.9 dB in the mean-square sense. These pilot results suggest that the cancellation strategy may be suitable for further testing with more subjects.
Resolving Seismic Anisotropy of the Lithosphere–Asthenosphere in the Central/Eastern Alps Beneath the SWATH-D Network
Authors: Link Frederik , Rümpker Georg
Published: September 2021

The Alpine orogeny is characterized by tectonic sequences of subduction and collision accompanied by break-off events and possibly preceded by a flip of subduction polarity. The tectonic evolution of the transition to the Eastern Alps has thus been under debate. The dense SWATH-D seismic network as a complementary experiment to the AlpArray seismic network provides unprecedented lateral resolution to address this ongoing discussion. We analyze the shear-wave splitting of this data set including stations of the AlpArray backbone in the region to obtain new insights into the deformation at depth from seismic anisotropy. Previous studies indicate two-layer anisotropy in the Eastern Alps. This is supported by the azimuthal pattern of the measured fast axis direction across all analyzed stations. However, the temporary character of the deployment requires a joint analysis of multiple stations to increase the number of events adding complementary information of the anisotropic properties of the mantle. We, therefore, perform a cluster analysis based on a correlation of energy tensors between all stations. The energy tensors are assembled from the remaining transverse energy after the trial correction of the splitting effect from two consecutive anisotropic layers. This leads to two main groups of different two-layer properties, separated approximately at 13°E. We identify a layer with a constant fast axis direction (measured clockwise with respect to north) of about 60° over the whole area, with a possible dip from west to east. The lower layer in the west shows N–S fast direction and the upper layer in the east shows a fast axis of about 115°. We propose two likely scenarios, both accompanied by a slab break-off in the eastern part. The continuous layer can either be interpreted as frozen-in anisotropy with a lithospheric origin or as an asthenospheric flow evading the retreat of the European slab that would precede the break-off event. In both scenarios, the upper layer in the east is a result of a flow through the gap formed in the slab break-off. The N–S direction can be interpreted as an asthenospheric flow driven by the retreating European slab but might also result from a deep-reaching fault-related anisotropy.
Exploring the Adequacy of Steady-State-Only Calibration
Authors: Moore Catherine R. , Doherty John
Published: September 2021

This paper explores the adequacy of steady-state-only calibration as a precursor to use of a groundwater model for decision-support. First, it reviews metrics by which a decision-support model should be judged. On the basis of these metrics, it establishes the shortcomings that a decision-support model may incur through foregoing transient calibration. These are 1) failure to reduce the uncertainties of management-salient model predictions to the extent that available data allows, and 2) creation of unquantifiable bias in management-salient predictions. Two methodologies for quantification of these deficiencies are proposed. The first of these addresses uncertainty reduction. This is relatively easy to implement, as it requires only that sensitivities of pertinent model outputs to a model’s parameters be calculated. The second methodology addresses predictive bias. Implementation of this second methodology is more expensive as it requires repeated calibration of a steady state model against stochastic realizations of a transient model.These methods are demonstrated using a synthetic case which explores the viability of steady-state-only calibration of models deployed to examine the impacts of pumping on stream flows and groundwater levels. It is demonstrated that, for some predictions of management interest, steady-state-only calibration is more than sufficient for this kind of decision-support modelling.
Mineral Element Stocks in the Yedoma Domain: A Novel Method Applied to Ice-Rich Permafrost Regions
Authors: Monhonval Arthur , Mauclet Elisabeth , Pereira Benoît , Vandeuren Aubry , Strauss Jens , Grosse Guido , Schirrmeister Lutz , Fuchs Matthias , Kuhry Peter , Opfergelt Sophie
Published: September 2021

With permafrost thaw, significant amounts of organic carbon (OC) previously stored in frozen deposits are unlocked and become potentially available for microbial mineralization. This is particularly the case in ice-rich regions such as the Yedoma domain. Excess ground ice degradation exposes deep sediments and their OC stocks, but also mineral elements, to biogeochemical processes. Interactions of mineral elements and OC play a crucial role for OC stabilization and the fate of OC upon thaw, and thus regulate carbon dioxide and methane emissions. In addition, some mineral elements are limiting nutrients for plant growth or microbial metabolic activity. A large ongoing effort is to quantify OC stocks and their lability in permafrost regions, but the influence of mineral elements on the fate of OC or on biogeochemical nutrient cycles has received less attention and there is an overall lack of mineral element content analyses for permafrost sediments. Here, we combine portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) with a bootstrapping technique to provide i) the first large-scale Yedoma domain Mineral Concentrations Assessment (YMCA) dataset, and ii) estimates of mineral element stocks in never thawed (since deposition) ice-rich Yedoma permafrost and previously thawed and partly refrozen Alas deposits. The pXRF method for mineral element quantification is non-destructive and offers a complement to the classical dissolution and measurement by optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) in solution. Using this method, mineral element concentrations (Si, Al, Fe, Ca, K, Ti, Mn, Zn, Sr and Zr) were assessed on 1,292 sediment samples from the Yedoma domain with lower analytical effort and lower costs relative to the ICP-OES method. The pXRF measured concentrations were calibrated using alkaline fusion and ICP-OES measurements on a subset of 144 samples (R2 from 0.725 to 0.996). The results highlight that i) the mineral element stock in sediments of the Yedoma domain (1,387,000 km2) is higher for Si, followed by Al, Fe, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Zr, Sr, and Zn, and that ii) the stock in Al and Fe (598 ± 213 and 288 ± 104 Gt) is in the same order of magnitude as the OC stock (327–466 Gt).
Seepage Behavior of Fractures in Paleogene Sandstone Reservoirs in Nanpu Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, Eastern China
Authors: Wang Zhaosheng , Muhtar Meiri , Xu Donghao , Fang Jinchuan , Li Jing , Liu Daojie , Zhang Zhenguo , Gao Lianfeng
Published: September 2021

Natural fractures play an important role in the seepage system of Paleogene sandstone reservoirs at Nanpu Sag. Characteristics and formation mechanisms of natural fractures and stress-sensitivity permeability are comprehensively investigated and their impact on water injection is discussed based on core and log data (FMI and diplog data) as well as stress-sensitivity permeability measurement. Results show that high-angle shear fractures, including NE-SW strike fractures and NW-SE strike fractures, are widely developed in the study area, which were primarily developed during the late Paleogene and late Neogene. The present maximum horizontal principal stress is orientated at N60°–80°E, approximately parallel to the NE-SW fractures, contributing greatly to the seepage system at the early oilfield development stage. Fractures in the study area can be divided into three phases and are characterized by obvious stress-sensitivity permeability, which is closely related to fracture aperture and throat size. Since the fracture occurrence enhances stress sensitivity of permeability, it is necessary to regulate well pattern based on dynamic behaviors of fractured reservoirs at different development stages.
A Late Pleistocene Wetland Setting in the Arid Jurf ed Darawish Region in Central Jordan
Authors: Mischke Steffen , Lai Zhongping , Faershtein Galina , Porat Naomi , Röhl Matthias , Braun Paul , Kalbe Johannes , Ginat Hanan
Published: September 2021

Current conditions in the southern Levant are hyperarid, and local communities rely on fossil subsurface water resources. The timing of more favourable wetter periods and also their spatial characteristics are not yet well constrained. To improve our understanding of past climate and environmental conditions in the deserts of the southern Levant, sedimentary sections including artefact-bearing beds from Jurf ed Darawish on the Central Jordanian Plateau were investigated using sedimentological and micropalaeontological analyses and OSL dating. Grain-size analysis and structures of the clayey-silty sediments show that they mainly represent reworked loess deposits. The OSL ages suggest that these fine-grained sediments were accumulated during Marine Isotope Stages (MIS) 5-3. Recorded ostracod valves (mostly Potamocypris, Ilyocypris and Pseudocandona), remains of aquatic and terrestrial gastropod shells, and charophyte gyrogonites and stem encrustations indicate that an in-stream wetland existed at the location of Jurf ed Darawish during MIS 5-4 which was replaced by a vegetated alluvial plain in MIS 3. The prevailing aggradational setting was replaced by an erosional setting sometime after 30 ka. Abundant artefacts, distributed over a vertical range of up to 40 cm in a bed covered by a sedimentary sequence of 12-m thickness, provide evidence for the presence of humans in the region during a relatively long period from ca. 85 to 65 ka. The reconstruction of an in-stream wetland at Jurf ed Darawish, and the presence of humans at the site and in other desert regions of the Jordanian Plateau, the Wadi Arava/Araba, and the Negev and the Nefud deserts, show that the regional climate in the late MIS 5 and MIS 4 was significantly wetter than today and provided favourable conditions for humans in the Southern Levant and the northwestern Arabian Peninsula.