bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing Salinity Tolerate Trees for Challenging Sites and Urban Forests Based on the Inferences of Physiological Responses: Using Ulmus Pumila as an Example
Authors: Mu Deyu , Ding Chen
Published: February 2021

Elevated salinity is one of the major environmental limitation factors of plant growth and development and salinity stress compromises the production and survival of plantation and urban forests and agricultural crops in the arid, semi-arid, and intertidal zones. Ulmus pumila, a salt- indigenous tree species in Asia and is widely deployed in salt-affected areas in China, and U.pumila is promising for multi-varietal forestry in plantation and urban forests. The comprehensive mechanism of the intraspecific salt tolerance is still not clear yet. Here, we investigated the physiological responses of the salinity stress based on the antioxidant enzyme activities, osmotic adjustments, and gas exchange among salt-tolerant U. pumila genotypes for 100 days under five different NaCl levels (0%, 0.3%, 0.5%, 0.7%, and 0.9% w/v) with natural surroundings and rain shade at age-2. Salt stress decreased height (HR), ground diameter (DR), and dry weight (biomass) were significantly different among genotypes. HR and performance indices were positively correlated with photosynthesis rate (Pn), apparent mesophyll conductance (AMC), and chlorophyll (CHLL) with (r= 0.7 - 0.8 ***), but were negatively related to the free proline, sugar, and protein accumulation (r=-0.5 ~ -0.7***). We found that high accumulation of sugars and more activities of SOD enzyme in leaf tissue contribute to the osmotic adjustment and ROS scavenging system under salinity treatment; the sugar content and SOD activity play key roles in U. pumila’s tolerance to salt stress, and are promising indicators for U. pumila species ex vitro selections. The ex vitro selection results align with the previous in vitro studies [37] and is promising for the MVF development.
Human Activity Recognition with Deep Learning: Overview, Challenges & Possibilities
Authors: Kumar Pranjal
Published: February 2021

The growing use of sensor tools and the Internet of Things requires sensors to understand the applications. There are major
difficulties in realistic situations, though, that can impact the efficiency of the recognition system. Recently, as the utility of
deep learning in many fields has been shown, various deep approaches were researched to tackle the challenges of detection
and recognition. We present in this review a sample of specialized deep learning approaches for the identification of sensor-based human behaviour. Next, we present the multi-modal sensory data and include information for the public databases which
can be used in different challenge tasks for study. A new taxonomy is then suggested, to organize deep approaches according
to challenges. Deep problems and approaches connected to problems are summarized and evaluated to provide an analysis of
the ongoing advancement in science. By the conclusion of this research, we are answering unanswered issues and providing
perspectives into the future.
An Update of Molecular Basis of Telomere Biology Diseases
Authors: Vertecchi Eleonora , Iuzzolino Angela , Salvati Erica
Published: February 2021

Telomeres are crucial structures that preserve genome stability. Their progressive erosion over rounds of DNA duplication determines senescence of cells and organisms. In a classic view, telomere biology impinges on intracellular signaling pathways regulating DNA damage repair and cell cycle arrest, but new roles of telomeric proteins and transcripts emerge from recent literature. Telomere biology diseases are human disorders associated to telomere attrition. This review wants to overview the recent findings in the field of telomere’s metabolism and to deepen molecular mechanisms of inherited and acquired telomeropathies, explaining new critical connections between telomeric factors and disease pathogenesis
Turbulence of Capillary Waves on Shallow Water
Authors: Vladimirova Natalia , Vointsev Ivan , Skoba Alena , Falkovich Gregory
Published: February 2021

We consider the developed turbulence of capillary waves on shallow water. Analytic theory shows that an isotropic cascade spectrum is unstable with the respect to small angular perturbations, in particular, to spontaneous breakdown of the reflection symmetry and generation of nonzero momentum. By computer modeling we show that indeed a random pumping, generating on average zero momentum, produces turbulence with a nonzero total momentum. A strongly anisotropic large-scale pumping produces turbulence whose degree of anisotropy decreases along a cascade. It tends to saturation in the inertial interval and then further decreases in the dissipation interval. Surprisingly, neither the direction of the total momentum nor the direction of the compensated spectrum anisotropy is locked by our square box preferred directions (side or diagonal) but fluctuate.
Alzheimer’s Disease as a Chronic Maladaptive Polyamine Stress Response
Authors: Polis Baruh , Karasik David , Samson Abraham
Published: February 2021

Polyamines are nitrogen-rich polycationic ubiquitous bioactive molecules with diverse evolutionary-conserved functions. Their activity interferes with numerous genes' expression resulting in cell proliferation and signaling modulation. The intracellular levels of polyamines are precisely controlled by evolutionary-conserved machinery. Their transient synthesis is induced by heat stress, radiation, and other traumatic stimuli in a process termed the polyamine stress response (PSR). Notably, polyamine levels decline gradually with age; and external supplementation improves lifespan in model organisms. This corresponds to cytoprotective and reactive oxygen species scavenging properties of polyamines. Paradoxically, age-associated neurodegenerative disorders are characterized by an upsurge in polyamine levels, indicating polyamine pleiotropic, adaptive, and pathogenic roles. Specifically, arginase overactivation and arginine brain deprivation have been shown to play an important role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis. Here, we assert that a universal short-term PSR associated with acute stimuli is beneficial for survival. However, it becomes detrimental and maladaptive following chronic noxious stimuli, especially in an aging organism. Furthermore, we regard cellular senescence as an adaptive response to stress and suggest that PSR plays a central role in age-related neurodegenerative diseases' pathogenesis. Our perspective on AD proposes an inclusive reassessment of the causal relationships between the classical hallmarks and clinical manifestation. Consequently, we offer a novel treatment strategy predicated upon this view and suggest fine-tuning of arginase activity with natural inhibitors to preclude or halt the development of AD-related dementia.
Cosmology of Barrow Holographic Dark Energy as Nojiri-Odintsov Holographic Dark Energy with Specific Cut-off and the Thermodynamics
Authors: Chakraborty Gargee , Chattopadhyay Surajit , Güdekli Ertan , Radinschi Irina
Published: February 2021

Motivated by the work of Saridakis (Phys. Rev. D 102, 123525 (2020)), the present study reports the cosmological consequences of Barrow holographic dark energy (HDE) and its thermodynamics. Literatures demonstrate that Dark Energy (DE) may result from electroweak symmetry breaking that triggers a phase transition from early inflation to late time acceleration. In the present study, we incorporated viscosity in the Barrow HDE. A reconstruction scheme is presented for the parameters associated with Barrow holographic dark energy under the purview of viscous cosmology. Equation of state (EoS) parameter is reconstructed in this scenario and quintessence behaviour is observed. Considering BarrowHDE as a specific case ofNojiri-Odintsov (NO) HDE, we have observed quintom behaviour of the EoS parameter and for some values of n the EoS has been observed to be very close to −1 for the current universe. The generalised second law of thermodynamics has come out to be valid in all the scenarios under consideration. Physical viability of considering Barrow HDE as a specific case of NO HDE is demonstrated in this study.
Salt-Cured Atlantic Cod Skin: A Sustainable Source of Acid-Soluble Type I Collagen
Authors: Coscueta Ezequiel , Brassesco María Emilia , Pintado Manuela
Published: February 2021

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the animal kingdom. Industrial collagen is mainly bovine and porcine origin. However, due to religious beliefs, allergic issues, and infectious diseases, alternative sources of collagen as marine are gaining increasing interest. In this work, the acid-soluble collagen (ASC) were extracted from salt-cured Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) skin and characterized. The extraction yield was about 2.0%, equivalent to the extraction yield reported for other fish skins. The electrophoretic pattern showed the typical type I structure (α, β and γ chains). UV-VIS and FTIR absorbance spectra suggested a very pure ASC with an intact triple helical structure. The integrity and the adequate porosity required for different applications were then confirmed by electron micrograph. Our findings allow us to say that, for the first time, we extracted acid-soluble type I collagen from salt-cured Atlantic cod skin, with characteristics suitable for application in various fields, such as biomedical.
Estimativa do estoque da população apta a demandar por educação de jovens e adultos no Estado de São Paulo em 1995 e 2015
Authors: Vitor Longo Flávia , Melo Vieira Joice
Published: February 2021

A Lei de Diretrizes e Bases da Educação Nacional estabelece que é dever da Federação recensear anualmente não apenas crianças e adolescentes em idade escolar, mas também os jovens e adultos que não concluíram a educação básica. O objetivo deste estudo é mensurar o estoque de jovens e adultos (15 a 64 anos) com educação básica incompleta no Estado de São Paulo e estimar a demanda por nível de ensino se todos eles retornassem aos bancos escolares. A metodologia fundamenta-se em dados da Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios de 1995 e 2015 e na aplicação do modelo Profluxo. Os resultados indicam que os principais gargalos do sistema estão na passagem de um ciclo educacional para outro. A demanda por Educação de Jovens e Adultos (EJA) persiste, especialmente nos primeiros anos de cada ciclo da educação básica, ainda que em menor volume em 2015 se comparado a 1995.
O The student occupations movement in Pará, Brazil in 2016
Authors: Groppo Luís Antonio , Araujo Ronaldo Marcos de Lima , Moraes Verena Cristina Monteiro
Published: February 2021

A historical interpretation of the occupations of high schools in Pará, in 2016, is made, trying to understand their characteristics and their political and formative practices, based on the category of Thompson's experience and that of Rancière's historical subject. Five interviews were conducted in 2019, listening to young people who participated in the movement in four municipalities. As a result, Pará joined the national student occupation movement in a very active way, both adhering to the national agenda and proposing its own demands. Also, students experienced formative practices that gave new meaning to school culture, youth culture and political culture, combining both the autonomist tendency and the political orientation of student entities, producing significant impacts on the educational and political trajectories of the subjects interviewed.
Altas Capacidades: desarrollo de prácticas de enriquecimiento curricular
Authors: Bergamin Aletéia Cristina , Marques Zanata Eliana , Messias Fialho Capellini Vera Lucía , Belfort Arantes-Brero Denisse Rocha , Ramos Gastaldi Daniel
Published: February 2021

Este artículo presenta una experiencia de enriquecimiento curricular basada en la referencia teórica de Joseph Renzulli, en un salón de primaria común de una escuela pública del interior del Estado de São Paulo (Brasil), elaborada a partir de las necesidades de un estudiante con Altas Capacidades que pertenecía a esta aula. La investigación consistió en un enfoque cualitativo con características exploratorias, en el que las hipótesis se construyeron durante todo el proceso y se fueron mejorando a medida que se recopilaban los datos. Los resultados individuales y colectivos obtenidos con el enriquecimiento fueron satisfactorios para atender a todos los estudiantes, ya que el seguimiento en este proceso señaló que avanzaron en el desarrollo de habilidades cognitivas y socioemocionales, datos que señalan que la propuesta está dentro de la perspectiva inclusiva.
Randomised, double-blind comparison of a fixed co-formulation of intra-articular polynucleotides and hyaluronic acid versus hyaluronic acid alone in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: two-year follow-up
Authors: Stagni Cesare , Rocchi Martina , Mazzotta Alessandro , Piccolo Nicolandrea Del , Rani Nicola , Govoni Marco , Vivarelli Leonardo , Veronesi Francesca , Fini Michela , Dallari Dante
Published: February 2021

Background: A first-year interim analysis of this two-year study suggested that intra-articular injections of highly purified, natural-origin polynucleotides and hyaluronic acid (HA) as a fixed combination (PNHA) might improve knee function and joint pain more effectively than HA alone in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Purpose of the second-year analysis herein described was verifying whether the first-year interim outcomes persist over the whole two-year period.
Methods: Randomised, double-blind, HA-controlled clinical trial in 100 knee OA patients (98 randomised, 69 completing the study) in a high-specialisation tertiary care setting. The hypothesised difference of efficacy between PNHA and HA for the original sample size estimate is 20%. Treatment cycle: 3 weekly intra-articular knee injections of either PNHA or HA. Evaluations: Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) score and Knee Society Score (KSS) as, respectively, primary and secondary endpoints, evaluated at baseline and after 2, 6, 12, and 24 months; synovial fluid levels of proinflammatory mediators (biochemical and immunoenzymatic assays at baseline and the end of the treatment cycle). Adverse effects investigated at each control visit. Statistical analysis: Kruskal-Wallis test for independent samples (nonparametric one-way analysis of variance) after correction of means for age, Body Mass Index and Kellgren-Lawrence grade. If significant, pairwise post-hoc Sidak multiple comparisons.
Results: KSS total score and KSS pain item: significant improvement in both groups, with significantly more pain improvement in patients treated with PNHA (2-point reduction) than HA (1-point reduction). Both groups experienced significant long-term reductions in WOMAC total scores: significantly stronger in PNHA-treated patients after 24 months with a steady difference of 16% favouring PNHA in WOMAC pain subscore. No clinically significant adverse events in either group.
Conclusions: The outcomes of the 2-year study confirmed that a short cycle of intra-articular treatment (3 weekly double-blind injections) with polynucleotides (long-acting viscosupplementation properties, pro-trophic activity on chondrocytes, pain-relieving properties) in fixed combination with high molecular weight hyaluronic acid is more effective in improving knee function and pain in knee OA patients than HA alone. PNHA may be elective for viscosupplementation in knee OA patients with fastidious and resistant pain, signs of inflammation or worsening disease.
A CTLA-4 Blocking Strategy Based on Nanobaby in Dendritic Cell-stimulated Cytokine-induced Killer Cells Enhances Their Anti-tumor Effects
Authors: Wang Wu , Zhong Kai , Wang Xi , Yang Wenli , He Na , Li Xuexia , Pang Yanyang , Liu Aiqun , Lu Xiaoli
Published: February 2021

Background: Cytokine-induced killer cells which were induced with tumor antigen-pulsed dendritic cells (DC-CIK) immunotherapy is a promising strategy for the treatment of malignant tumors. However, the efficacy was restricted by the immunosuppression of tumor microenvironment mediated by the cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) pathway. We, therefore, screened a nanobody which is targeted for CTLA-4 (Nb36), and blocked the CTLA-4 signaling with Nb36 to overcome the negative co-stimulation of effector T cells. Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected from healthy donors and used to induce CIK cells in vitro, then co-cultured with DC cells that have received tumor antigens. We tested whether blocking CTLA-4 signaling with Nb36 could promote DC-CIK cells proliferation, pro-inflammatory cytokine production and cytotoxicity in vitro. In vivo experiments, The NOD/SCID mice were injected subcutaneously with HepG2 cells to induce solid tumor. We observe whether this therapy can more effectively inhibit tumor growth in mice. Results: After being stimulated with Nb36, DC-CIK cells presented enhanced proliferation and production of IFN-γ in vitro, thereby strengthening the killing effect on tumor cells. For in vivo experiments, Nb36-treated DC-CIK cells significantly inhibited the growth of subcutaneously transplanted tumors of liver cancer, reduced tumor weight and prolonged the survival of tumor-bearing NOD/SCID mice. Conclusions: These findings demonstrated that in response to CTLA-4 specific nanobody stimulation, DC-CIK cells exhibited superior anti-tumor efficacy. Our findings suggested that DC-CIK cells + Nb36 has potential to treat malignant tumors through in vivo adoptive therapy.
Exploring the mechanism of Bushenhuoxue formula acting on postmenopausal osteoporosis via network pharmacology and experimental validation
Authors: Ke Chunhai , Chen Yizhou , Wang Yi , He Guonong , Lou Hongkai , Mao Dandan , Jin Hongting , Wu Chengliang , Fang Liang , Xia Chenjie
Published: February 2021

Background: Bushenhuoxue (BSHX) formula, a ten-compound herbal decoction, has been used to treat postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) in China for decades. Our previous study also revealed the anti-PMOP effects of BSHX formula in ovariectomized (OVX) mice. However, its pharmacological mechanisms remain unknown. Methods: Network pharmacology followed by animal experiments was used to explore the action mechanism of BSHX formula. Firstly, we obtained the chemical compounds and potential targets of BSHX formula using TCMSP and TCMID databases. Simultaneously, GeneCards and DisGeNET databases were used to determine the targets in PMOP. Based on their overlapping genes between BSHX formula and PMOP, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed for screening hub-targets. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were further performed to identify the critical biological processes and signaling pathways. In vivo experimental study, an OVX mouse model was established to determine the anti-PMOP effects of BSHX formula via Micro-CT assay and ABH staining. The expressions of β-catenin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and CD31 were detected by immunohistochemistry.Results: A total of 218 active ingredients and 274 related targets were identified in BSHX formula. After matching with 292 therapeutic targets of PMOP, 64 overlapping genes were obtained and further used to build a PPI network in which CTNNB1 and VEGFA played a central role. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that the anti-PMOP effects of BSHX formula were mainly associated with cell proliferation, angiogenesis and their regulated pathways including β-catenin signaling and VEGF signaling. In mouse experiments, we revealed that bone mass and blood vessels in the OVX mice were significantly enhanced after treated with BSHX formula for 8 weeks. Moreover, down-regulations of β-catenin, ALP, VEGF and CD31 caused by OVX surgery were significantly restored by BSHX formula.Conclusions: Through network pharmacology and an experimental validation, we have revealed that BSHX formula exerts anti-PMOP effects mainly through promoting β-catenin-mediated osteogenesis and VEGF-mediated angiogenesis. BSHX formula can be considered as a new option for the treatment of PMOP.
DDIT4 is involved in PPAR-γ mediated Fatty Acid intake to promote the Proliferation of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Ding Fadian , Gao Feng , Lian Wei , Huang Shirong , Wang Hanjun , Zhang Shuyu , Lv Xiaoting , Liu Qicai , Chen Youting
Published: February 2021

Background: DDIT4 is a tumor metabolism-related protein which is involved in the proliferation and survival of various tumors. However, the function of DDIT4 in the pancreatic cancer is still unknown.Methods: We collected clinical samples of pancreatic cancer and established animal models of pancreatic cancer and DDIT4-HET animal models. We examined the expression of DDIT4 in pancreatic cancer tissues by IHC and WB and the degree of fat infiltration in the pancreas by HE staining and oil-red O staining. What’s more, the Western blot and immunohistochemical methods were applied to test the expression levels of PPAR-γ and CD36. Meanwhile, the apoptosis and proliferation levels were also examined in DDIT4-HET pancreatic cancer model.Results:The expression of DDIT4 is decreased in pancreatic cancer and DDIT4 regulates the development of pancreatic cancer by participating in fat infiltration. The degree of fat infiltration in DDIT4-HET pancreatic cancer tumors is higher than that in wild-type pancreatic cancer tumors. Through transgenic animal models, we found that DDIT4 regulates lipid metabolism in pancreatic cancer by regulating PPAR-γ and its downstream proteins CD36 and ATGL, and DDIT4-mediated lipid metabolism abnormality is involved in the proliferation and apoptosis of pancreatic cancer.Conclusion: The low expression of DDIT4 promotes the proliferation and survival by regulating lipid metabolism in pancreatic cancer cells.
The nodule-specific multifunctional channel NOD26 of Medicago truncatula is crucial for nitrogen-fixing symbiosis
Authors: Frare Romina , Gómez Cristina , López-Fernández María Paula , Alleva Karina , Nikel Pablo , Ayub Nicolás , Soto Gabriela
Published: February 2021

The multifunctional channel NOD26, identified and extensively studied (both biochemically and biophysically) in soybean, is a major protein component of the symbiosome membrane. The water and ammonia transport activities of NOD26 are thought to be important for nodule development, osmotic balance, and ammonia efflux from the symbiosome. However, the widely accepted relevance of NOD26 in nitrogen-fixing symbiosis has never been explored in planta. Recently, we have reported the emergence of NOD26 in the nitrogen-fixing clade of angiosperms via tandem duplication. Here, we characterized the two copies of NOD26 from Medicago truncatula (Medtr8g087710 and Medtr8g087720) in their transport abilities, and at gene expression and genetic levels. Similar to their homologous soybean gene, MtNOD26 genes encode water and ammonia transport activities in heterologous expression systems. By using multiple transcriptional studies (RT-qPCR, transcriptional fusion and RNA-Seq analyses), we found that the expression of MtNOD26 copies is restricted to the nodule and gradually increases from the bacteria-free meristematic region to the nitrogen-fixation zone. Under nitrogen-limiting soil conditions, the homozygous insertional mutant lines of these two MtNOD26 genes had the same aberrant nodulation phenotype and chlorosis. Similar to uninoculated wild-type plants, inoculated mutants were unable to grow in minimal medium without a nitrogen source. Collectively, our findings suggest functional equivalence between MtNOD26 copies and underline a crucial role of NOD26 in symbiotic nitrogen fixation.
Investigation on Seismic Behaviour of Masonry Infilled Self-Centring-Beam Moment-Frames using New Infill Material Model
Authors: Huang Xiaogang , Zhou Zhen , wang yuhang
Published: February 2021

This paper conducted experimental and numerical investigations on seismic behaviour of masonry infilled self-centring-beam moment-frames (SCB-MFs). First, an efficient hysteretic material model was proposed for use with the equivalent strut modelling approach of infill walls. This model was defined by backbone parameters and hysteretic parameters and implemented in the OpenSees platform to facilitate its application. Then, an approximately half-scale test of infilled SCB-MFs was carried out. The test observations and load-carrying capacities of masonry walls in the specimen were reported and analysed. The experimental hysteresis was reproduced by the numerical model using the proposed infill material. Finally, structural analyses were conducted for 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-storey infilled SCB-MFs based on the calibrated computational model. Comparisons of the hysteretic behaviours obtained by the simulation with experimental results showed that the proposed infill material could capture the strength, stiffness, and energy dissipation during reloading, along with the residual drift during unloading. The nonlinear dynamic analyses also validated the feasibility of using the proposed model to simulate the dynamic responses of infilled SCB-MFs.
Triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio predicts all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in diabetic patients with coronary artery disease on statin treatment
Authors: Wang Le , Cong Hongliang , Zhang JingXia , Hu YueCheng , Wei Ao , Zhang YingYi , Yang Hua , Ren LiBin , Qi Wei , Li WenYu , Liu ChunWei
Published: February 2021

Background The triglyceride (TG)to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio has been regarded as an independent predictor of cardiovascular events. However, the association of TG/HDL-C ratio with survival in patients with diabetes and coronary artery disease (CAD) on statin therapy remains uncertain. The aim of the present study was to explore whether TG/HDL-C ratio predicts mortality in diabetic patients with CAD on statin treatment.Methods A total of 2080 consecutive patients with type 2 diabetes and angiographic-proven CAD who were treated with statin were enrolled in the presents study. Patients were divided into tertiles according to baseline TG/HDL-C ratio. The primary endpoints were all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.Results During 4-year follow-up, 209(10.0%) patients died, 136(65.1%) caused by cardiovascular disease (CVD). The Kaplan-Meier analyses showed that all-cause and cardiovascular mortality increased gradually with rising TG/HDL-C ratio tertiles (log-rank test, P < 0.001, respectively). Multivariate cox hazard regression analysis revealed that patients in tertile 3 but not teretile 2 had significantly higher rate of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality (P < 0.001, P < 0.05, respectively). Moreover, TG/HDL-C ratio was independently associated with all-cause mortality (HR: 1.21, 95% CI:1.11–1.31; P < 0.001) and cardiovascular mortality (HR:1.28, 95% CI: 1.19–1.37; P < 0.001). For all-cause mortality, TG/HDL-C ratio significantly improved the C-statistic (0.799[0.766–0.833] to 0.813[0.780–0.845]; P = 0.018), net reclassification index (NRI) (0.315; P < 0.001), and integrated discrimination index (IDI) (0.012; P = 0.003). For cardiovascular mortality, TG/HDL-C ratio significantly improved the C-statistic (0.769[0.727–0.812] to 0.810[0.771–0.849]; P = 0.001), NRI (0.442; P < 0.001), and IDI (0.039; P < 0.001).Conclusions TG/HDL-C ratio may predict mortality risk among diabetic CAD patients receiving statin treatment. These findings suggest that assessing TG/HDL-C ratio may be useful for risk stratification for mortality risk in patients with diabetes and CAD.
Scenario Simulation and Landscape Pattern Dynamic Changes of Land Use in Mining Area
Authors: Chang Xiaoyan , Zhang Feng , Cong Kanglin , Liu Xiaojun
Published: February 2021

In this study, we selected 11 townships with severe ground subsidence located in Weishan County as the study area. Based on the interpretation data of Landsat images, the Binary logistic regression model was used to explore the relationship between land use change and the related 7 driving factors at a scale of 60m * 60m. Using the CLUE-S model, combined with Markov model, the simulation of land use under three scenarios–namely, natural development scenario, ecological protection scenario and farmland protection scenario–were explored. Firstly, using land use map in 2005 as input data, we predicted the land use spatial distribution pattern in 2016. By comparing the actual land use map in 2016 with the simulated map of land use pattern in 2016, the prediction accuracy was evaluated based on the Kappa index. Then, after validation, the distribution of land use pattern in 2025 under the three scenarios was simulated. The results showed the following: (1) The driving factors had satisfactory explanatory power for land use changes. The Kappa index was 0.82, which indicated good simulation accuracy of the CLUE-S model. (2) Under the three scenarios, the area of other agricultural land and water body showed an increasing trend; while the area of farmland, urban and rural construction land, subsided land with water accumulation, and tidal wetland showed a decreasing trend, and the area of urban and rural construction land and tidal wetland decreased the fastest. (3) Under the ecological protection scenario, the farmland decreased faster than the other two scenarios, and most of the farmland was converted to ecological land such as garden land and water body. Under the farmland protection scenario, the area of tidal wetland decreased the fastest, followed by urban and rural construction land. We anticipate that our study results will provide useful information for decision-makers and planners to take appropriate land management measures in the mining area.
Evaluation of changes in gastrointestinal motility caused by altered thyroid function in conscious dogs
Authors: Nakazawa Nobuhiro , Sohda Makoto , Ogata Kyoichi , Baatar Seded , Ubukata Yasunari , Kuriyama Kengo , Hara Keigo , Suzuki Masaki , Yanoma Toru , Kimura Akiharu , Kogure Norimichi , Sano Akihiko , Sakai Makoto , Yokobori Takehiko , Oue Atsushi , Mochiki Erito , Kuwano Hiroyuki , Shirabe Ken , Koibuchi Noriyuki , Saeki Hiroshi
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to clarify the relationship between thyroid function and gastrointestinal motility. We established an experimental configuration in which the feedback of thyroid function was completely removed using conscious dogs. With hypothyroidism, time of phase Ⅰ of interdigestive migrating contractions (IMC) was longer, time of phase Ⅱ and phase Ⅲ was significantly shortened, and both the continuous time of strong tetanic contraction at antrum and 10-hours frequency of phase Ⅲ counted from the first IMC after meal significantly decreased. Whereas, hyperthyroidism caused the opposite events to those with hypothyroidism. Furthermore, We found giant migrating contractions (GMC) occurred from the upper gastrointestinal tract when we administrated high dose of thyroid hormone. One GMC occurred from anal sides propagated to cardiac, and this propagation was similar to the emesis-like interdigestive motor activity, the other GMC occurred from oral sides propagated to anal sides and this was similar to the diarrhea-like interdigestive motor activity. We examined the relationship between thyroid function and gastrointestinal hormones including of ghrelin, GLP-1, and cholecystokinin (CCK). However, we could not find significant differences under different thyroid hormone status. This is the first report that thyroid hormone activated upper gastrointestinal motility without mediating gastrointestinal hormones.
Deep Pathological Phenotyping of Dermatomyositis with Different Autoantibodies
Authors: Zeng Li , Ma Xue , Lu Jun , Gao Ming-shi , Wang Zhang-yang , Sun Chong , Xi Jian-ying , Luo Su-shan , Lin Jie , Qiao Kai , Zhao Chong-bo , Lu Jia-hong , Bu Bi-tao , Zhu Wen-hua
Published: February 2021

Objective

Dermatomyositis with different myositis-specific autoantibodies has distinctive clinical presentations. Pathological variation of patients with different antibodies has not been fully understood.
Methods

A retrospective review of muscle pathological features was performed in dermatomyositis patients with known myositis-specific antibodies.
Results

A total of 46 dermatomyositis patients with one myositis-specific autoantibody (anti-MDA5 11, anti-Mi-2 10, anti-NXP2 13, anti-TIF1γ 8, anti-SAE 4) were included and the pathological severity score was evaluated. Patients with anti-Mi-2 demonstrated higher pathological severity scores and apparent sarcolemmal complement deposition, which was in consistency of more severe muscle weakness and higher level of muscle enzymes. In contrast, patients with anti-MDA5 generally had minimal pathological changes in muscle with less inflammatory cell infiltration, fewer membrane attack complex deposition, and milder myxovirus resistance protein A upregulation. Patients with anti-SAE had more inflammatory cell infiltration and MAC deposition compared to anti-MDA5 group. Muscle pathological scores varied largely in patients with anti-NXP2 and anti-TIF1γ.
Conclusion

The muscle pathological features varies among dermatomyositis with different autoantibodies, which further indicates the heterogeneity of dermatomyositis.
Risk factors for rejection after deceased donor kidney transplantation: a mono-institutional analysis of paired kidneys
Authors: Zhang Fuxun , Liu Zhihong , Liang Jiayu , Xiong Yang , Wu Changjing , Zhang Fan , Wu Kan , Lu Yiping , Wang Xianding , Lin Tao
Published: February 2021

Background

Deceased donor kidney transplantation is an important therapeutic option for end-stage renal diseases. Adverse events including acute rejection after deceased donor kidney transplantation are not uncommon and result in poor transplant outcomes. Exploration of risk factors and patient stratification is increasingly significant to improve graft survival. This study aim to evaluate and identify the risk factors for treated rejection of patients after deceased donor kidney transplantation.
Methods

Clinical and immunological data of deceased donors and corresponding recipients between 2015 and 2018 in West China Hospital were retrospectively collected. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to indicate distribution of variables. Univariate comparisons of baseline characteristics were made with Chi-square, t and Mann-Whitney U tests. Logistic regression was constructed to analysis potential risk factors. Receiver operating characteristic curve and Jordan index were generated to determine optimal cut-off value for continuous variables.
Results

Data of 123 deceased donors and 246 recipients were obtained. The median (range) age was 41(4–62) years in recipients and 39 (1–65) years in donors. The recipients who died or suffered graft loss during the follow-up period were 8 (3.3%) and 12 (4.9%) respectively. After univariate analysis and subsequent multivariate analysis, some preoperative hemato-biochemical and transplantation-related parameters including uric acid (HR 2.132, 95%CI: 1.016–4.476, P = 0.045), platelet (HR 2.202, 95%CI:1.051–4.617, P = 0.037), absolute neutrophil count (HR 2.164, 95%CI:1.018–4.599, P = 0.045) and HLA-DQ mismatch (HR 2.197, 95%CI:1.119–4.317, P = 0.022) showed statistical significance and could be considered as independent predictors for treated rejection.
Conclusions

Including unexpected serum uric acid, several hemato-biochemical and transplantation-related parameters were found to be independent risk factors for rejection, which may contribute to stratify patients and develop personalized regimen in perioperative period.
Inhaled Sphingosine Has no Adverse Side Effects in Isolated Ventilated and Perfused Pig Lungs
Authors: Carstens Henning , Kalka Katharina , Verhaegh Rabea , Schumacher Fabian , Soddemann Matthias , Wilker Barbara , Keitsch Simone , Sehl Carolin , Kleuser Burkhard , Wahlers Thorsten , Reiner Gerald , Koch Achim , Rauen Ursula , Gulbins Erich , Kamler Markus
Published: February 2021

Background: Ex-vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) systems like XVIVOâ are more and more common in the setting of lung transplantation, since marginal donor-lungs can easily be subjected to a performance test or be treated with corticosteroids or antibiotics in high dose regimes. Donor lungs are frequently positive in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) bacterial cultures (46-89%) which leads to a donor-to-recipient transmission and subsequent to a higher risk of lung infection with reduced posttransplant outcome. We have previously shown that sphingosine very efficiently kills a variety of pathogens, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and epidermidis, Escherichia coli or Haemophilus influenzae. Thus, sphingosine could be a new treatment option with broadspectrum antiinfective potential, which may improve outcome after lung transplantation when administered prior to lung re-implantation. Here, we tested whether sphingosine has any adverse effects in the respiratory tract when applied into the isolated ventilated and perfused lungs. Methods: A 4-hour EVLP run using minipig lungs was performed. Functional parameters as well as perfusate measurements where obtained. Biopsies were obtained 30 min and 150 min after inhalation of sphingosine. Tissue samples were fixed in paraformaldehyde, embedded in paraffin and sectioned. Hemalaun, TUNEL as well as Cy3-coupled anti-sphingosine/ceramide antibodies stainings were implemented. Results: We demonstrate that tube-inhalation of sphingosine into ex-vivo perfused and ventilated minipig lungs results in increased levels of sphingosine in the luminal membrane of bronchi and the trachea without morphological side effects up to very high doses of sphingosine. Sphingosine also did not affect functional lung performance.Conclusion: In summary, the inhalation of sphingosine results in an increase of sphingosine concentrations in the luminal plasma membrane of tracheal and bronchial epithelial cells. The inhalation has no local side effects in ex-vivo perfused and ventilated minipig lungs.
A Parametric Neutron Bragg Edge Imaging Study of Additively Manufactured Samples Treated by Laser Shock Peening
Authors: Busi Matteo , Kalentics Nikola , Morgano Manuel , Griffiths Seth , Tremsin Anton S. , Shinohara Takenao , Logé Roland , Leinenbach Christian , Strobl Markus
Published: February 2021

Laser powder bed fusion is an additive manufacturing technique extensively used for the production of metallic components. Despite this process has reached a status at which parts are produced with mechanical properties comparable to those from conventional production, it is still prone to introduce detrimental tensile residual stresses towards the surfaces along the building direction, implying negative consequences on fatigue life and resistance to crack formations. Laser shock peening (LSP) is a promising method adopted to compensate tensile residual stresses and to introduce beneficial compressive residual stress on the treated surfaces. Using neutron Bragg edge imaging, we perform a parametric study of LSP applied to 316L steel samples produced by laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing. We include in the study the novel 3D-LSP technique, where samples are LSP treated also during the building process, at intermediate build layers. The LSP energy and spot overlap were set to either 1.0 or 1.5 J and 40% or 80% respectively. The results support the use of 3D-LSP treatment with the higher LSP laser energy and overlap applied, which showed a relative increase of surface compressive residual stress (CRS) and CRS depth by 57% and 104% respectively, compared to the conventional LSP treatment.
Intracranial Atherosclerosis in Stroke Patients, Which Risk Factors Are Important? A Study From Mixed Ethnic Population in Singapore.
Authors: Pande shrikant , Lwin May Thiri , Khine Aye Aye , Myat May Win , Lolong Lorecar , Morris Julie
Published: February 2021

Intracranial atherosclerosis (ICAD) although more common in Asians, has not been studied from Singapore population. The aim of this study is to identify prevalence ICAD in stroke subjects, its association with comorbidities, stroke subtypes and long-term survival. We performed retrospective analysis of 681 stroke patients, 327(48%) had ICAD) with 232 (71%) having one or more intracranial artery with significant stenosis. ICAD was associated with older age, ischaemic strokes, total anterior circulation syndrome (TACS), large artery strokes (p<0.001), peripheral vascular disease (PVD, p=0.018), diabetes mellitus (DM), and with history of hyperlipidemia. In addition, higher serum potassium (p=0.046) and glucose (p<0.001), lower haemoglobin (p=0.040) and aortic valve sclerosis were significantly associated with ICAD (p<0.001). Multivariable analysis showed a significant independent association of ICAD with advancing age, history of hyperlipidemia and DM.In ischemic strokes (489), 311(64%) had ICAD of which 229(72%) had significant stenosis. Of the 192 hemorrhagic strokes, 16 (8%) had ICAD.Conclusion: The prevalence of ICAD, especially in ischemic strokes, from our study is high. As modifiable risk factors such as hyperlipidemia and DM appear to be associated with ICAD, then proactive management of these conditions may improve long term associated complications. Prospective studies may help to validate our findings.
Post Procedural Peak Left Atrial Contraction Strain Predicts Recurrence of Arrhythmia After Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Wen Songnan , Indrabhinduwat Manasawee , Brady Peter A. , Pislaru Cristina , Miller Fletcher A. , Ammash Naser M. , Nkomo Vuyisile T. , Padang Ratnasari , Pislaru Sorin V. , Lin Grace
Published: February 2021

Background: Left atrial (LA) function can be impaired by the atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation and might be associated with the risk of recurrence. We sought to determine whether the post-procedural changes in LA function impact the risk of recurrence following AF ablation. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent AF ablation between 2009 and 2011 and underwent transthoracic echocardiography before ablation, 1-day and 3-month after ablation. Peak left atrial contraction strain (PACS) and left atrial emptying fraction (LAEF) were evaluated during sinus rhythm and compared across the three time points. The primary endpoint was atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence after ablation. Results: Out of 144 patients were enrolled (mean age 61±11 years, 77% male, 46% persistent AF). PACS and LAEF initially decreased 1-day following ablation but partially recovered within 3 months in PAF patients, with a similar trend in the PerAF patients. After median 24 months follow-up, 68 (47%) patients had recurrence. Patients with recurrence had higher PACS1-day than that in non-recurrence subjects (-10.9±5.0%%vs. -13.4±4.7, p=0.003). PACS1-day -12% distinguished recurrence cases with a sensitivity of 67.7% and specificity of 60.5%. The Kaplan-Meier curves showed significant difference in 5-year cumulative probability of recurrence between those with PACS≥ -12 % and PACS < -12% (log rank p<0.0001). Multivariate regression showed that PACS1-day was an independent risk factor of arrhythmia recurrence. Conclusions: Left atrial function deteriorates immediately following AF ablation and partially recovers in 3 months but remains abnormal in the majority of patients. PACS1-day post procedure predicts arrhythmia recurrence at long-term follow-up.
Role of the mobilome in the global dissemination of the carbapenem resistance gene blaNDM
Authors: Acman Mislav , Wang Ruobing , Dorp Lucy van , Shaw Liam , Wang Qi , Luhmann Nina , Yin Yuyao , Sun Shijun , Chen Hongbin , Wang Hui , Balloux Francois
Published: February 2021

The mobile resistance gene blaNDM encodes the NDM enzyme capable of hydrolysing carbapenems, a class of antibiotics used to treat some of the most severe bacterial infections. blaNDM is globally distributed across a variety of Gram-negative bacteria and is typically located within a highly recombining transposon-rich genomic region common to multiple plasmids types. As a result of this genomic complexity the dynamics underlying the dissemination of blaNDM remain poorly resolved. In this work, we compiled a dataset of over 2000 bacterial genomes harbouring the blaNDM gene including 112 new PacBio hybrid assemblies from clinical and livestock associated isolates across China and developed a novel computational approach to track structural variants in bacterial genomes. We were able to correlate specific structural variants with plasmid backbones, bacterial host species and sampling locations, and identified multiple transposition events that occurred during the global dissemination of blaNDM. Our results highlight the most prominent transposons responsible for the global spread of blaNDM and suggest that genetic recombination, rather than mutation, was the dominant force driving the evolution of the blaNDM genomic region. By tracking the change in diversity among countries of collection of blaNDM-positive genomes, we estimate that blaNDM reached global prevalence within 8-11 years after its initial mobilization. Lastly, we observe notable correlation between plasmid backbones bearing blaNDM and the sampling location which suggests that the dissemination of resistance is mainly driven by successive between-plasmid transposon jumps with plasmid exchange being largely restricted by the boundaries defined by bacterial host-adaptation of individual plasmids.
A Data-Driven Approach to Violin Making
Authors: Gonzalez Sebastian , Salvi Davide , Baeza Daniel , Antonacci Fabio , Sarti Augusto
Published: February 2021

Of all the characteristics of a violin, those that concern its shape are probably the most important ones, as the violin maker has complete control over them. Contemporary violin making, however, is still based more on tradition than understanding, and a definitive scientific study of the specific relations that exist between shape and vibrational properties is yet to come and sorely missed. In this article, using standard statistical learning tools, we show that the modal frequencies of violin tops can, in fact, be predicted from geometric parameters, and that artificial intelligence can be successfully applied to traditional violin making. We also study how modal frequencies vary with the thicknesses of the plate (a process often referred to as plate tuning) and discuss the complexity of this dependency. Finally, we propose a predictive tool for plate tuning, which takes into account material and geometric parameters.
Tracing the Origin of Korean Invasive Populations of the Spotted Lanternfly, Lycorma Delicatula (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae)
Authors: Kim Hyojoong , Kim Sohee , Lee Yerim , Lee Heung-Sik , Lee Seong-Jin , Lee Jong-Ho
Published: February 2021

Lycorma delicatula (White) suddenly arrived in South Korea where it rapidly spread out in the central region of South Korea and became a pest causing serious damage to grapevine yards. To trace the source region of its invasiveness, population genetic structures were compared between the native region, China, and the introduced regions, Korea and Japan. We examined 762 individuals from 38 different population collections using 15 microsatellite loci. Both principal coordinate and structure analyses displayed that the Chinese populations were separated into three subgroups which were located significantly apart from each other, and, among them, Shanghai population was located closest to most Korean populations. Based on the genetic relationships and structures, although the multiple introductions into South Korea occurred at least three times, the single genetic group close to Shanghai with a high density spread was estimated to be a cause of dominant genetic structure of initial invasive populations. In addition, analysis of the approximate Bayesian computation suggested simultaneous spread from two distant locations early in the invasion by artificial transportation of the host plants including egg masses. Our population genetics study can provide a precedent case with regards to identifying unnatural spreads by anthropogenic outcomes in other invasive regions.