bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caracterização do regime fluvial da bacia hidrográfica do rio Acre
Authors: Tamwing Daniela Silva , Montefusco Carolina de Lima Accorsi , Serrano Rodrigo Otávio Peréa , Mesquita Anderson Azevedo , Moreira José Genivaldo do Vale
Published: December 2021

O regime fluvial de um rio representa a variação do volume de água durante um período, e é uma ferramenta essencial para o estudo da disponibilidade hídrica. Nesse sentido, este trabalho objetivou caracterizar o regime hídrico fluvial da bacia hidrográfica do rio Acre, considerando a dinâmica espaço-temporal a fim de estudar a sua disponibilidade hídrica. Foram identificas as vazões médias, máximas e mínimas anuais e mensais, obtidas através de tratamento estatístico dos dados fluviométricos de cinco estações ao longo do rio Acre, disponibilizados pela ANA (Agência Nacional de Água e Saneamento Básico). Verificou-se que o período de maior disponibilidade hídrica, para as séries históricas estudadas, ocorreu entre os meses de dezembro a abril, enquanto o período com menores vazões médias mensais ocorreram entre junho e setembro.
Uso de medicamentos fitoterápicos em pediatria
Authors: Sarmento Thaise de Abreu Brasileiro , Fernandes Filho Antônio , Feitosa Ankilma do Nascimento Andrade , Maracajá Patrício Borges , Castro Anubes Pereira de
Published: December 2021

Objetivo: Discutir o uso da fitoterapia adotada como terapêutica em crianças atendidas em ambulatórios de pediatria. Metodologia: Estudo exploratório, descritivo e transversal com abordagem quali-quantitativa. A pesquisa ocorreu na Policlínica Santa Maria, Policlínica Orcino Guedes e Polisaúde, ambos com atendimento em pediatria e localizadas no município de Cajazeira-PB. A amostra do estudo foi composta por 324 pais/responsáveis das crianças atendidas nos ambulatórios mencionados, sendo a coleta dos dados realizada nos meses de agosto, setembro e outubro de 2021, através de um instrumento validado sobre a saúde e utilização de plantas medicinais em crianças pelas famílias. Para análise dos dados utilizou-se o programa SPSS v.25, além dos testes inferenciais de qui-quadrado de Pearson, além da técnica proposta por Bardin. Os critérios de inclusão foram: pais/responsáveis por crianças de 0-10 anos atendidas nos ambulatórios, no período correspondente à realização da pesquisa e que preencheram o formulário, sendo excluídos aqueles que não preencheram o questionário corretamente e aqueles que não sabiam informar sobre o uso de fitoterápicos. Resultados: Foi analisado que as plantas medicinais mais utilizadas no município de Cajazeiras foi: camomila (17,5%) seguida de cidreira (8,8%) e Boldo (8%). Além disso, foi identificado que 73,1% dos entrevistados utilizam ou já utilizaram as plantas medicinais para prevenção, cura ou tratamento de doenças em seus filhos, dos quais 90,29% receberam orientações dos próprios familiares. 219 entrevistados informaram que usam as plantas como chás. Conclusão: Visto isso, observou-se que a utilização de plantas medicinais é fortemente presente entre os pais do município de Cajazeiras-PB.
A depressão infantil e o pedagogo em cena
Authors: Carvalho Tayse Cardoso Ferreira , Teixeira Zenaide Dias , Vilela Paula Rey , Santos Juscélia Paiva dos
Published: December 2021

O presente trabalho tem como finalidade apresentar estudo de campo sobre a depressão infantil e o processo de ensino-aprendizagem, buscando, mais especificamente, discutir a importância do papel do professor.  Diante de sua recente comprovação na infância, muitas vezes a depressão infantil passa despercebida. E por afetar muitos aspectos da vida da criança, inclusive o processo de ensino-aprendizagem, partimos do pressuposto de que o professor possa exercer um papel fundamental na identificação da criança acometida pela depressão, o que é um grande desafio. Para isso, realizamos uma pesquisa de campo, com aplicação de um questionário por meio do Google Forms para 29 estudantes do último semestre do curso de pedagogia de uma universidade pública no estado de Goiás, buscando perceber os conhecimentos dos futuros professores a respeito do tema. Os resultados da pesquisa demonstram que apesar de julgarem como importante que sua formação contemple conhecimentos básicos sobre a depressão infantil, a maioria dos estudantes, que estão no último semestre do curso de pedagogia e, portanto, em breve estarão em sala de aula, avaliam as orientações recebidas sobre o tema como insuficientes, portanto, não se sentem preparados para identificar ou lidar com crianças acometidas pela doença. Nesse sentido, chegamos à conclusão de que é necessário ampliar os conhecimentos sobre este transtorno, sobre seus sintomas e como ocorre na infância. Assim, o professor poderá auxiliar muitos de seus alunos a receberem um maior cuidado, alertar os responsáveis para que se possa procurar ajuda profissional adequada e a criança poderá receber tratamento o mais breve possível. Quanto antes ela for encaminhada para profissionais, mais resultados positivos são manifestados no tratamento e os danos à vida da criança, bem como ao processo de ensino-aprendizagem, podem ser significativamente minimizados.
O impacto da terapêutica estética na qualidade de vida de mulheres portadoras do melasma
Authors: Silva Daniela Aparecida Martins da , Santos Jeane Rocha
Published: December 2021

O melasma é resultado da produção excessiva de melanina, principal pigmento que constitui a coloração da pele. Possui causa multifatorial e acomete áreas fotoexpostas do corpo, como o face. O melasma impacta diretamente na autoestima dos pacientes acometidos, impactando na sua qualidade de vida e convívio social.  O objetivo é analisar os benefícios dos tratamentos estéticos na redução do melasma para melhoria da qualidade de vida de mulheres. Trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva de natureza bibliográfica. Os resultados pretendem demostrar a eficácia do tratamento e a melhoria da autoestima de portadoras de melasma. Os tratamentos eficazes trazem benefícios na qualidade de vida dos portadores de melasma. Sugere-se que novos estudos acerca do tema sejam realizados e que estas pesquisam possam apresentar informações sobre os tratamentos mais efetivos e como eles atuam no clareamento do melasma.
Mutation breeding in six rowed barley: Screening for stem rust resistance in certain
induced mutants
Authors: Raj Shipra
Published: December 2021

During the induced mutagenesis in six rowed barley, 18 mutant lines were isolated from the M2 and M3 generations. Thirteen lines were induced by gamma rays, four by EMS and one by HA. These lines were screened for resistance to stem rust and loss assessment. Mutants were grown in field as well as in earthen pots. Artificial inoculums were provided in condition suitable for rust occurrence. Rust reaction was recorded according to modified Cabb’s scale and the rust intensity was classified as 0,5, 10, 25, 40 and 65 percent. Lines K50-38, K50-97, K50-102 and K40-73 were completely free from infection (0 %) and thought to be immune lines(I). K50-47, KE-4-47 and G50-47 exhibited traces of symptoms and placed under 5% intensity and were very resistant(R). Line KE2-63 exhibited 10% intensity and classified as moderately resistant(MR). Line K50-44; K40-11, K40-67, K30-91, KE3-75, G50-35 and GH3-32 showed 25% intensity of pustules and were put into moderately susceptible(MS) class. One line K30-82 showed 40% intensity and classified as susceptible(S), while line KE4-87 exihibited 65% intensity and was classified as heavily susceptible. Class 100 percent was not observed. Immune, very resistant and moderately resistant were identified as resistant lines and selected for further study, while moderately susceptible and heavily susceptible lines were identified as susceptible lines and discarded. Reduction in yield contributing traits i.e. number of grains/spike, test weight, seed yield and biological yield was also observed which was positively correlated with disease intensity.
Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Fungal Study of Schiff Bases and their Metal Co (II)& Zn (II)
Complexes
Authors: Sharma Dileep , Agarwal S.C.
Published: December 2021

Synthesis of Schiff bases from different types of aromatic aldehyde and 3-amino-2- napthol-4-sulphonic acid and then prepared the Co (II), Zn (II) complexes. Metal complexes of Schiff bases have occupied a central role in the development of coordination Chemistry. A number of verities of stable chemical species have been synthesized, containing transition metal and multifarious ligand. Metal complexes of Schiff base shows the strong anti fungicidal, anti bacterial activity, anti viral infection, anticancer, herbicides, plant growth regulators and anti covulsants . Metal complexes also find a wide applications in the field of industrial chemistry, analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical chemistry, agricultural chemistry and bioorganic chemistry. Recently hetrocyclic such as 2 ‘al’ pyrrol, 2 ‘al’ furan, 2 ‘al’ thiophen and aromatic aldehyde, there metal Zn (II), Co (II) complexes have also gained a focal position in bioinorganic field and frequently used as antifungal, plant growth regulators and anticancer.
Effect of Minor Alloying Elements (C, Ni, Cr, Mo) on the Long-Term Corrosion Behaviors of Ultrahigh-Strength Automotive Steel Sheet in Neutral Aqueous Environment
Authors: Bang Hye Rin , Park Jin-seong , Seong Hwan Goo , Kim Sung Jin
Published: December 2021

This study examined the effects of minor alloying elements (C, Ni, Cr, and Mo) on the long-term corrosion behaviors of ultrahigh-strength automotive steel sheets with a tensile strength of more than 1800 MPa. A range of experimental and analytical results showed that the addition of Ni, Cr, and Mo decreased the corrosion current density and weight loss in electrochemical and immersion tests, respectively, in a neutral aqueous condition. This suggests that the minor addition of elements to steel can result in improved corrosion resistance even for long-term immersion periods. This is closely associated with the formation of thin and stable corrosion scale on the surface, which was enriched with the alloying elements (Ni, Cr, and Mo). On the other hand, their beneficial effects did not persist during the prolonged immersion periods in steel with a higher C content, suggesting that the beneficial effects of the minor addition of Ni, Cr, and Mo were overridden by the detrimental effects of a higher C content as the immersion time was increased. Based on these results, lower C and the optimal use of Ni, Cr, and Mo are suggested as a desirable alloy design strategy for developing ultrahigh-strength steel sheets that can be exposed frequently to a neutral aqueous environment.
Return, Remembrance and Redemption: Hauntology and the Topography of Trauma inThe VirtuesandThis Is England ’88
Authors: Anderson Jack
Published: December 2021

This article takes a hauntological approach to explore Shane Meadows's preoccupation with (post)traumatic return, focusing on the TV series The Virtues (Channel 4, 2019) and This Is England ’88 (Channel 4, 2011), which are correlatives in their sophisticated explication of hauntological trauma. Using Jacques Derrida's theoretical neologism ‘hauntology’, the haunting cycles which are signatures in Meadows's work are understood as spectres of an unresolved past and symptoms of repressed knowledge. As explored by Meadows, the psychological breakdowns of key characters Joseph and Lol are articulated as a ghostly resurfacing of unprocessed trauma from the past. By highlighting Meadows's use of return, remembrance and redemption as a triadic narrative pattern, the article will show how Meadows depicts the transformative efficacy of traumatic return through using the haunting as a potentially restorative device.
COVID-19 Vaccine Anaphylaxis: Current Evidence and Future Approaches
Authors: Laisuan Wannada
Published: December 2021

Vaccine anaphylaxis is rare; however, severe allergic reactions after administration of a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines have been reported. Excipients in the vaccine may play a role in severe allergic reactions post-vaccination. Various mechanisms, including IgE-mediated pathways, direct mass cell stimulation via the Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor-X2, and complement pathway activation, have been proposed to cause the anaphylaxis. Skin testing, using the basophil activation test, has been used to clarify the mechanism of the anaphylaxis and provide safety information for the next injection. Here, we review the current evidence and suggested approaches for patients who experienced an immediate severe allergic reaction to the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.
A Novel Chondroitin AC Lyase With Broad Substrate Specificity From Pedobacter rhizosphaerae: Cloning, Expression, and Characterization
Authors: Zhou Li-Jian , Guo Li-Bin , Wei Wei , Lv Zhi-Xiang , Zhang Ye-Wang
Published: December 2021

Chondroitin AC lyase (ChSaseAC) is one of the essential polysaccharides lyases in low molecular chondroitin sulfate production. In this work, a novel PrChSaseAC from Pedobacter rhizosphaerae was successfully cloned, expressed in Escherichia coli. After optimizing the induction, the recombinant PrChSaseAC could be expressed efficiently at 0.1 mM IPTG, 25°C, and 12 h induction. Then, it was purified with Ni-NTA affinity chromatography. The characterization of the purified PrChSaseAC showed that it had high specific activity and good storage stability, which would favor the production of low molecular weight chondroitin sulfate. It also displayed activity toward chondroitin sulfate C and hyaluronic acid. PrChSaseAC had the highest activity at pH 7.5, 37°C, 10 mM Ca2+, and 5 mg/ml of chondroitin sulfate A. Molecular docking of substrate and enzyme showed the interactions between the enzyme and substrate; it revealed that the enzyme showed high activity to CS-A and hyaluronic acid, but lower activity to CS-C attributed to the structure of the binding pocket. The high stability and specific activity of the enzyme will benefit the industrial production or clinical treatment.
mTOR Signaling Regulates the Development and Therapeutic Efficacy of PMN-MDSCs in Acute GVHD
Authors: Li Xiaoqing , Li Yixue , Yu Qinru , Xu Lin , Fu Shan , Wei Cong , Wang Limengmeng , Luo Yi , Shi Jimin , Qian Pengxu , Huang He , Lin Yu
Published: December 2021

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) represent a population of heterogeneous myeloid cells, which are characterized by their remarkable ability to suppress T cells and natural killer cells. MDSCs have been proven to play a positive role in protecting acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD). Here, we aimed to describe the mechanism behind how mTOR signaling regulates MDSCs’ generation and explore its prophylactic and therapeutic potential in aGVHD. Reducing mTOR expression retains myeloid cells with immature characteristics and promotes polymorphonuclear MDSC (PMN-MDSC) immunosuppressive function through STAT3-C/EBPβ pathway. Prophylactic transfusion of mTORKO PMN-MDSCs could alleviate aGVHD while maintaining the graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect, which could downregulate the Th1/Th2 ratio, decrease serum proinflammatory cytokines, and increase the proportion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in aGVHD models at the early stage after transplantation. Moreover, transfusion therapy could promote the reconstruction and function of donor-derived PMN-MDSCs. Not only the percentage and the absolute number of donor-derived PMN-MDSCs significantly increased but also the immunosuppressive ability was much more robust compared to other groups. Altogether, these findings indicated that mTOR is an intrinsic regulator for PMN-MDSCs’ differentiation and immunosuppressive function. Together, mTORKO PMN-MDSC transfusion can play a protective role in alleviating cytokine storm at the initial stage and promoting the quantitative and functional recoveries of donor-derived PMN-MDSCs in aGVHD.
Recent Developments on Using Nanomaterials to Combat Candida albicans
Authors: Li Bingxin , Pan Luyao , Zhang Haofeng , Xie Lingping , Wang Xi , Shou Jiahui , Qi Yu , Yan Xiaojian
Published: December 2021

Vaginal candidiasis (VC) is a common disease of women and the main pathogen is Candida albicans (C. albicans). C. albicans infection incidence especially its drug resistance have become a global health threat due to the existence of C. albicans biofilms and the low bioavailability of traditional antifungal drugs. In recent years, nanomaterials have made great progresses in the field of antifungal applications. Some researchers have treated fungal infections with inorganic nanoparticles, represented by silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with antifungal properties. Liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) were also used to improve the bioavailability of antifungal drugs. Herein, we briefly introduced the recent developments on using above nanomaterials to combat C. albicans in antifungal applications.
Immunometabolic Analysis of Mobiluncus mulieris and Eggerthella sp. Reveals Novel Insights Into Their Pathogenic Contributions to the Hallmarks of Bacterial Vaginosis
Authors: McKenzie Ross , Maarsingh Jason D. , Łaniewski Paweł , Herbst-Kralovetz Melissa M.
Published: December 2021

The cervicovaginal microbiome plays an important role in protecting women from dysbiosis and infection caused by pathogenic microorganisms. In healthy reproductive-age women the cervicovaginal microbiome is predominantly colonized by protective Lactobacillus spp. The loss of these protective bacteria leads to colonization of the cervicovaginal microenvironment by pathogenic microorganisms resulting in dysbiosis and bacterial vaginosis (BV). Mobiluncus mulieris and Eggerthella sp. are two of the many anaerobes that can contribute to BV, a condition associated with multiple adverse obstetric and gynecological outcomes. M. mulieris has been linked to high Nugent scores (relating to BV morphotypes) and preterm birth (PTB), whilst some bacterial members of the Eggerthellaceae family are highly prevalent in BV, and identified in ~85-95% of cases. The functional impact of M. mulieris and Eggerthella sp. in BV is still poorly understood. To determine the individual immunometabolic contributions of Eggerthella sp. and M. mulieris within the cervicovaginal microenvironment, we utilized our well-characterized human three-dimensional (3-D) cervical epithelial cell model in combination with multiplex immunoassays and global untargeted metabolomics approaches to identify key immune mediators and metabolites related to M. mulieris and Eggerthella sp. infections. We found that infection with M. mulieris significantly elevated multiple proinflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α and MCP-1) and altered metabolites related to energy metabolism (nicotinamide and succinate) and oxidative stress (cysteinylglycine, cysteinylglycine disulfide and 2-hydroxygluatrate). Eggerthella sp. infection significantly elevated multiple sphingolipids and glycerolipids related to epithelial barrier function, and biogenic amines (putrescine and cadaverine) associated with elevated vaginal pH, vaginal amine odor and vaginal discharge. Our study elucidated that M. mulieris elevated multiple proinflammatory markers relating to PTB and STI acquisition, as well as altered energy metabolism and oxidative stress, whilst Eggerthella sp. upregulated multiple biogenic amines associated with the clinical diagnostic criteria of BV. Future studies are needed to evaluate how these bacteria interact with other BV-associated bacteria within the cervicovaginal microenvironment.
Novel Insights Into the Pathogenesis of Diabetic Cardiomyopathy and Pharmacological Strategies
Authors: Muñoz-Córdova Felipe , Hernández-Fuentes Carolina , Lopez-Crisosto Camila , Troncoso Mayarling F. , Calle Ximena , Guerrero-Moncayo Alejandra , Gabrielli Luigi , Chiong Mario , Castro Pablo F. , Lavandero Sergio
Published: December 2021

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a severe complication of diabetes developed mainly in poorly controlled patients. In DCM, several clinical manifestations as well as cellular and molecular mechanisms contribute to its phenotype. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), chronic low-grade inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagic flux inhibition, altered metabolism, dysfunctional insulin signaling, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis, and increased myocardial cell death are described as the cardinal features involved in the genesis and development of DCM. However, many of these features can be associated with broader cellular processes such as inflammatory signaling, mitochondrial alterations, and autophagic flux inhibition. In this review, these mechanisms are critically discussed, highlighting the latest evidence and their contribution to the pathogenesis of DCM and their potential as pharmacological targets.
Case Report: Abnormal ECG in a Patient With Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Long Yunxiang , Tang Manyun , Wang Jie , Liu Hui , Jian Zhijie , Li Guoliang , Liu Chang
Published: December 2021

Background: Both acute pancreatitis and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are rapidly progressive and frequently fatal diseases that can be interrelated and lead to a vicious cycle for further problems. The concomitant occurrence of AMI and acute pancreatitis is rare but critical, and efficient diagnosis and treatment of such patients are challenging.

Case Summary: We reported an uncommon case of abnormal ECG findings in a 63-year-old woman with acute pancreatitis. The patient exhibited increased biomarkers of myocardial injury, such as creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) and troponin T, as well as ST segment elevation in inferior leads II, III, and aVF. Both of these have been previously observed in patients with acute abdomen in the absence of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), including pancreatitis. In addition, lacking complaints of chest pain or tightness was also supportive of this idea. Echocardiography indicated abnormalities in the functioning of the left inferior posterior wall segments and decreased overall systolic function of the left ventricle with a 51% ejection fraction. Eventually, AMI was diagnosed after coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) showing critical stenosis of the right coronary artery and left anterior descending artery segments. The patient was urgently transferred to intensive care unit and was treated with anticoagulation, antiplatelet aggregation, lipid-lowering and other palliative drugs.

Conclusion: Concomitant acute pancreatitis and AMI are often considered to be critical conditions with a poor prognosis. Therefore, it is important to rapidly identify this condition and consider transferring patients for multidisciplinary supportive care.
A Phenotyping of Diastolic Function by Machine Learning Improves Prediction of Clinical Outcomes in Heart Failure
Authors: Kameshima Haruka , Uejima Tokuhisa , Fraser Alan G. , Takahashi Lisa , Cho Junyi , Suzuki Shinya , Kato Yuko , Yajima Junji , Yamashita Takeshi
Published: December 2021

Background: Discriminating between different patterns of diastolic dysfunction in heart failure (HF) is still challenging. We tested the hypothesis that an unsupervised machine learning algorithm would detect heterogeneity in diastolic function and improve risk stratification compared with recommended consensus criteria.

Methods: This study included 279 consecutive patients aged 24–97 years old with clinically stable HF referred for echocardiographic assessment, in whom diastolic variables were measured according to the current guidelines. Cluster analysis was undertaken to identify homogeneous groups of patients with similar profiles of the variables. Sequential Cox models were used to compare cluster-based classification with guidelines-based classification for predicting clinical outcomes. The primary endpoint was hospitalization for worsening HF.

Results: The analysis identified three clusters with distinct properties of diastolic function that shared similarities with guidelines-based classification. The clusters were associated with brain natriuretic peptide level (p < 0.001), hemoglobin concentration (p = 0.017) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (p = 0.001). During a mean follow-up period of 2.6 ± 2.0 years, 62 patients (22%) experienced the primary endpoint. Cluster-based classification predicted events with a hazard ratio 1.68 (p = 0.019) that was independent from and incremental to the Meta-analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure (MAGGIC) risk score for HF, and from left ventricular end-diastolic volume and global longitudinal strain, whereas guidelines-based classification did not retain its independent prognostic value (hazard ratio = 1.25, p = 0.202).

Conclusion: Machine learning can identify patterns of diastolic function that better stratify the risk for decompensation than the current consensus recommendations in HF. Integrating this data-driven phenotyping may help in refining prognostication and optimizing treatment.
Sequential Coupling Shows Minor Effects of Fluid Dynamics on Myocardial Deformation in a Realistic Whole-Heart Model
Authors: Brenneisen Jochen , Daub Anna , Gerach Tobias , Kovacheva Ekaterina , Huetter Larissa , Frohnapfel Bettina , Dössel Olaf , Loewe Axel
Published: December 2021

Background: The human heart is a masterpiece of the highest complexity coordinating multi-physics aspects on a multi-scale range. Thus, modeling the cardiac function in silico to reproduce physiological characteristics and diseases remains challenging. Especially the complex simulation of the blood's hemodynamics and its interaction with the myocardial tissue requires a high accuracy of the underlying computational models and solvers. These demanding aspects make whole-heart fully-coupled simulations computationally highly expensive and call for simpler but still accurate models. While the mechanical deformation during the heart cycle drives the blood flow, less is known about the feedback of the blood flow onto the myocardial tissue.

Methods and Results: To solve the fluid-structure interaction problem, we suggest a cycle-to-cycle coupling of the structural deformation and the fluid dynamics. In a first step, the displacement of the endocardial wall in the mechanical simulation serves as a unidirectional boundary condition for the fluid simulation. After a complete heart cycle of fluid simulation, a spatially resolved pressure factor (PF) is extracted and returned to the next iteration of the solid mechanical simulation, closing the loop of the iterative coupling procedure. All simulations were performed on an individualized whole heart geometry. The effect of the sequential coupling was assessed by global measures such as the change in deformation and—as an example of diagnostically relevant information—the particle residence time. The mechanical displacement was up to 2 mm after the first iteration. In the second iteration, the deviation was in the sub-millimeter range, implying that already one iteration of the proposed cycle-to-cycle coupling is sufficient to converge to a coupled limit cycle.

Conclusion: Cycle-to-cycle coupling between cardiac mechanics and fluid dynamics can be a promising approach to account for fluid-structure interaction with low computational effort. In an individualized healthy whole-heart model, one iteration sufficed to obtain converged and physiologically plausible results.
Longevity Factor FOXO3: A Key Regulator in Aging-Related Vascular Diseases
Authors: Zhao Yan , Liu You-Shuo
Published: December 2021

Forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) has been proposed as a homeostasis regulator, capable of integrating multiple upstream signaling pathways that are sensitive to environmental changes and counteracting their adverse effects due to external changes, such as oxidative stress, metabolic stress and growth factor deprivation. FOXO3 polymorphisms are associated with extreme human longevity. Intriguingly, longevity-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in human FOXO3 correlate with lower-than-average morbidity from cardiovascular diseases in long-lived people. Emerging evidence indicates that FOXO3 plays a critical role in vascular aging. FOXO3 inactivation is implicated in several aging-related vascular diseases. In experimental studies, FOXO3-engineered human ESC-derived vascular cells improve vascular homeostasis and delay vascular aging. The purpose of this review is to explore how FOXO3 regulates vascular aging and its crucial role in aging-related vascular diseases.
Non-invasive Ischaemia Testing in Patients With Prior Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: Technical Challenges, Limitations, and Future Directions
Authors: Seraphim Andreas , Knott Kristopher D. , Augusto Joao B. , Menacho Katia , Tyebally Sara , Dowsing Benjamin , Bhattacharyya Sanjeev , Menezes Leon J. , Jones Daniel A. , Uppal Rakesh , Moon James C. , Manisty Charlotte
Published: December 2021

Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery effectively relieves symptoms and improves outcomes. However, patients undergoing CABG surgery typically have advanced coronary atherosclerotic disease and remain at high risk for symptom recurrence and adverse events. Functional non-invasive testing for ischaemia is commonly used as a gatekeeper for invasive coronary and graft angiography, and for guiding subsequent revascularisation decisions. However, performing and interpreting non-invasive ischaemia testing in patients post CABG is challenging, irrespective of the imaging modality used. Multiple factors including advanced multi-vessel native vessel disease, variability in coronary hemodynamics post-surgery, differences in graft lengths and vasomotor properties, and complex myocardial scar morphology are only some of the pathophysiological mechanisms that complicate ischaemia evaluation in this patient population. Systematic assessment of the impact of these challenges in relation to each imaging modality may help optimize diagnostic test selection by incorporating clinical information and individual patient characteristics. At the same time, recent technological advances in cardiac imaging including improvements in image quality, wider availability of quantitative techniques for measuring myocardial blood flow and the introduction of artificial intelligence-based approaches for image analysis offer the opportunity to re-evaluate the value of ischaemia testing, providing new insights into the pathophysiological processes that determine outcomes in this patient population.
Impaired Retrograde Transport Due to Lack of TBC1D5 Contributes to the Trafficking Defect of Lysosomal Cathepsins in Ischemic/Hypoxic Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Cui Lin , Zhang Qiong , Huang Yao , Yang Lei , Zhang Junhui , Jiang Xupin , Jia Jiezhi , Lv Yanling , Zhang Dongxia , Huang Yuesheng
Published: December 2021

Lysosomal dysfunction has been found in many pathological conditions, and methods to improve lysosomal function have been reported to be protective against infarcted hearts. However, the mechanisms underlying lysosomal dysfunction caused by ischemic injury are far less well-established. The retromer complex is implicated in the trafficking of cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR), which is an important protein tag for the proper transport of lysosomal contents and therefore is important for the maintenance of lysosomal function. In this study, we found that the function of retrograde transport in cardiomyocytes was impaired with ischemia/hypoxia (I/H) treatment, which resulted in a decrease in CI-MPR and an abnormal distribution of lysosomal cathepsins. I/H treatment caused a reduction in TBC1D5 and a blockade of the Rab7 membrane cycle, which impeded retromer binding to microtubules and motor proteins, resulting in an impairment of retrograde transport and a decrease in CI-MPR. We also established that TBC1D5 was an important regulator of the distribution of lysosomal cathepsins. Our findings shed light on the regulatory role of retromer in ischemic injury and uncover the regulatory mechanism of TBC1D5 over retromer.
Catheter Ablation of Ventricular Arrhythmias Originating From the Region of DGCV-AIV via a Swartz Sheath Support Approach
Authors: Zheng Cheng , Lin Wei-Qian , Wang Yao-Ji , Lv Fang-Zhou , Jin Qi-Qi , Li Jin , Lin Jia-Feng
Published: December 2021

Aims: This study aimed to investigate an appropriate catheter manipulation approach for ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) originating from the left ventricular epicardium adjacent to the transitional area from the great cardiac vein to the anterior interventricular vein (DGCV-AIV).

Methods: A total of 123 patients with DGCV-AIV VAs were retrospectively analyzed. All these patients underwent routine mapping and ablation by conventional approach [Non-Swartz sheath support (NS) approach] firstly. In the situation of the distal portion of the coronary venous system (CVS) not being accessed or a good target site not being obtained, the Swartz sheath support (SS) approach was attempted alternatively. If this still failed, the hydrophilic coated guidewire and left coronary angiographic catheter-guided deep engagement of Swartz sheath in GCV to support ablation catheter was performed.

Results: A total of 103 VAs (103/123, 83.74%) were successfully eliminated in DGCV-AIV. By NS approach, the tip of the catheter reached DGCV in 39.84% VAs (49/123), reached target sites in 35.87% VAs (44/123), and achieved successful ablation in 30.89% VAs (38/123), which was significantly lower than by SS approach (88.61% (70/79), 84.81 % (67/79), and 75.95% (60/79), P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in complication occurrence between the NS approach and the SS approach (4/123, 3.25% vs. 7/79, 8.86%, p > 0.05). The angle between DGCV and AIV <83° indicated an inaccessible AIV by catheter tip with a predictive value of 94.5%. Width/height of coronary venous system>0.69 more favored a SS approach with a predictive value of 87%.

Conclusion: For radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) of VAs arising from DGCV-AIV, the SS approach facilitates the catheter tip to achieve target sites and contributes to a successful ablation.
Technological and Digital Interventions for Mental Health and Wellbeing: An Overview of Systematic Reviews
Authors: De Witte Nele A. J. , Joris Steven , Van Assche Eva , Van Daele Tom
Published: December 2021

Background: Research increasingly shows how selective and targeted use of technology within care and welfare can have several advantages including improved quality of care and active user involvement.

Purpose: The current overview of reviews aims to summarize the research on the effectiveness of technology for mental health and wellbeing. The goal is to highlight and structure the diverse combinations of technologies and interventions used so far, rather than to summarize the effectiveness of singular approaches.

Methods: The current overview includes reviews published in the past five years with a focus on effectiveness of digital and technological interventions targeting mental health and wellbeing.

Results: A total of 246 reviews could be included. All reviews examined the effectiveness of digital and technological interventions in the context of care and welfare. A combination of two taxonomies was created through qualitative analysis, based on the retrieved interventions and technologies in the reviews. Review classification shows a predominance of reviews on psychotherapeutic interventions using computers and smartphones. It is furthermore shown that when smartphone applications as stand-alone technology are researched, the primary focus is on self-help, and that extended reality is the most researched emerging technology to date.

Conclusion: This overview of reviews shows that a wide range of interventions and technologies, with varying focus and target populations, have been studied in the field of care and wellbeing. The current overview of reviews is a first step to add structure to this rapidly changing field and may guide both researchers and clinicians in further exploring the evidence-base of particular approaches.
Developing a Quality Benchmark for Determining the Credibility of Web Health Information- a Protocol of a Gold Standard Approach
Authors: Daraz Lubna , Bouseh Sheila
Published: December 2021

Background: The current pandemic of COVID-19 has changed the way health information is distributed through online platforms. These platforms have played a significant role in informing patients and the public with knowledge that has changed the virtual world forever. Simultaneously, there are growing concerns that much of the information is not credible, impacting patient health outcomes, causing human lives, and tremendous resource waste. With the increasing use of online platforms, patients/the public require new learning models and sharing medical knowledge. They need to be empowered with strategies to navigate disinformation on online platforms.

Methods and Design: To meet the urgent need to combat health “misinformation,” the research team proposes a structured approach to develop a quality benchmark, an evidence-based tool that identifies and addresses the determinants of online health information reliability. The specific methods to develop the intervention are the following: (1) systematic reviews: two comprehensive systematic reviews to understand the current state of the quality of online health information and to identify research gaps, (2) content analysis: develop a conceptual framework based on established and complementary knowledge translation approaches for analyzing the existing quality assessment tools and draft a unique set of quality of domains, (3) focus groups: multiple focus groups with diverse patients/the public and health information providers to test the acceptability and usability of the quality domains, (4) development and evaluation: a unique set of determinants of reliability will be finalized along with a preferred scoring classification. These items will be used to develop and validate a quality benchmark to assess the quality of online health information.

Expected Outcomes: This multi-phase project informed by theory will lead to new knowledge that is intended to inform the development of a patient-friendly quality benchmark. This benchmark will inform best practices and policies in disseminating reliable web health information, thus reducing disparities in access to health knowledge and combat misinformation online. In addition, we envision the final product can be used as a gold standard for developing similar interventions for specific groups of patients or populations.
Factors Controlling Tropical Cyclone Intensification Over the Marginal Seas of China
Authors: Li Xiaomeng , Zhan Ruifen , Wang Yuqing , Xu Jing
Published: December 2021

Tropical cyclone (TC) intensification over marginal seas, especially rapid intensification (RI), often poses great threat to lives and properties in coastal regions and is subject to large forecast errors. It is thus important to understand the characteristics of TC intensification and the involved key factors affecting TC intensification over marginal seas. In this study, the 6-hourly TC best-track data from Shanghai Typhoon Institute of China Meteorological Administration, ERA-Interim reanalysis data, and TRMM satellite rainfall products are used to analyze and compare the climatological characteristics and key factors of different intensification stratifications over the marginal seas of China (MSC) and the western North Pacific (WNP) during 1980–2018. The statistical results show that TC intensification over the MSC is more likely to occur when TCs experience relatively large intensities, weak vertical wind shear, small translation perpendicular to the coastline, relatively high fullness, strong upper-level divergence, low-level relative vorticity, and high inner-core precipitation rate. The box difference index method is used to quantify the relative contributions of these factors to TC RI. Results show that the initial (relative) intensity contributes the most to TC RI over both the MSC and the WNP. The inner-core precipitation rate and translation perpendicular to the coastline are of second importance to TC RI over the MSC, while both vertical wind shear and TC fullness are crucial to TC RI over the WNP. These findings may help understand TC activity over the MSC and provide a basis for improving intensity prediction of TCs in the MSC.
Nanoindentation-Based Three-Parameter Fracability Evaluation Method for Continental Shales
Authors: Meng Siwei , Li Dongxu , Wang Qi , Tao Jiaping , Su Jian , Li Hanqi , Jin Xu , Yang Liu
Published: December 2021

Shale fracturing evaluation is of great significance to the development of shale oil and gas resources, but the commonly used shale evaluation methods (e.g., the method using the brittleness index based on mineral composition or elastic parameters) have certain limitations. Fractures and beddings affecting fracturing are not considered in these methods. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a new method to evaluate fracturing more comprehensively. The samples used in this research were taken from four typical continental shale basins of China, namely the Bohai Bay Basin, the Ordos Basin, the Songliao Basin, and the Junggar Basin. From a microscopic point of view, a three-parameter evaluation method involving multi-dimensional factors has been developed based on the nanoindentation method. Then, the fracturing coefficient K2 is obtained by combining the ratio β of the fracture indentation to the total indentation and the uneven coefficient m. After that, the fracability coefficient K3 is the ratio of the elastic modulus parallel to bedding to that perpendicular to bedding. Finally, the correlation between fracability coefficients K1, K2, and K3 is used to evaluate the overall fracturing performance of shale. The results of this evaluation method are in good agreement with the actual fracturing performance. It can be concluded that this method is highly reliable and practical and well worthy of promoted applications.
Decomposition Analysis of CO2 Emissions in Northeast China: Insights From Investment Factors
Authors: Wang Xue , Li Lu , Zhao Fusen
Published: December 2021

Global warming caused by carbon emissions is a central concern across the world. Given the immense contribution of Northeast China to total carbon dioxide emissions, this study explores the driving forces of carbon emissions in that region from the perspective of investment-related factors, applying a logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) model. We assess the driving forces on carbon emissions using a temporal LMDI model and explore interregional differences using a spatial LMDI model. The main findings are as follows. First, the trajectory of investment evolution is consistent with the mitigation of carbon emissions, which indicates that investment-related factors have a significant impact on carbon emissions. Second, the region’s carbon emissions are mainly generated by industry in Inner Mongolia and Liaoning, which suggests that the industry structure in Inner Mongolia should be adjusted to improve its coal-based energy consumption. In Liaoning, in contrast, the investment efficiency effect is a major driving force, which suggests that the regional investment structure should be adjusted to generate a more significant and orderly momentum. Lastly, although the impact of industry structure on carbon emission mitigation has significantly increased over time in Northeast China, local policy needs to be updated regularly. In line with these findings, several potential suggestions are offered for the formulation of practical and appropriate guidelines by the regional government.
How Biodiversity-Friendly Is Regenerative Grazing?
Authors: Morris Craig D.
Published: December 2021

Regenerative grazing management (ReGM) seeks to mimic natural grazing dynamics to restore degraded soils and the ecological processes underpinning sustainable livestock production while enhancing biodiversity. Regenerative grazing, including holistic planned grazing and related methods, is an adaptive, rotational stocking approach in which dense livestock herds are rotated rapidly through multiple paddocks in short bouts of grazing to defoliate plants evenly and infrequently, interspersed with long recovery periods to boost regrowth. The concentrated “hoof action” of herds in ReGM is regarded vital for regenerating soils and ecosystem services. Evidence (from 58 studies) that ReGM benefits biodiversity is reviewed. Soils enriched by ReGM have increased microbial bioactivity, higher fungal:bacteria biomass, greater functional diversity, and richer microarthropods and macrofauna communities. Vegetation responds inconsistently, with increased, neutral, or decreased total plant diversity, richness of forage grasses and invasive species under ReGM: grasses tend to be favored but shrubs and forbs can be depleted by the mechanical action of hooves. Trampling also reduces numerous arthropods by altering vegetation structure, but creates favorable habitat and food for a few taxa, such as dung beetles. Similarly, grazing-induced structural changes benefit some birds (for foraging, nest sites) while heavy stocking during winter and droughts reduces food for seedeaters and songbirds. With herding and no fences, wildlife (herbivores and predators) thrives on nutritious regrowth while having access to large undisturbed areas. It is concluded that ReGM does not universally promote biodiversity but can be adapted to provide greater landscape habitat heterogeneity suitable to a wider range of biota.
Preliminary Support for a Cognitive Remediation Intervention for Women During the Menopausal Transition: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ballantyne Elena C. , King Jelena P. , Green Sheryl M.
Published: December 2021

Background: Menopause is associated with physical and emotional symptoms, and subjective cognitive concerns that are generally not borne out on objective cognitive measures. This discrepancy suggests that a psychological rather than biological mechanism likely mediates the cognitive concerns of women in menopause. The current study assessed the feasibility and effectiveness of a cognitive remediation intervention with the goal of reducing subjective perceptions of cognitive difficulty during the menopause.

Methods: Twenty-seven menopausal women (M age = 53.74, SD = 4.14) completed a 5-week group-based intervention (with a post-group booster) consisting of 2-h weekly sessions. Participants completed pre- and post-intervention measures capturing subjective cognitive ability, mood, anxiety, stress, personality, and objective cognitive tests. The primary variable of interest was self-reported cognitive confidence measured by the Memory and Cognitive Confidence Scale (MACCS).

Results: All but one MACCS subscale significantly decreased over the course of treatment (with lower scores associated with higher confidence) and effect sizes ranged from small to large (d = −0.39 to −0.91) with gains maintained at 1-month follow-up. Interestingly, no change in objective cognitive test performance was observed, indicating increases in subjective cognitive confidence in the absence of objective cognitive improvement. There was no change in mood, anxiety, or stress scores. Two-level HLM analyses revealed that those with higher baseline neuroticism, as measured by the NEO Personality Inventory, had smaller decreases in post-group MACCS High Standards subscale relative to those with lower baseline neuroticism (p = 0.027, d = −0.45). Those with higher baseline depression scores on the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) had a smaller decrease in post-intervention MACCS Total Score relative to those with lower depression ratings.

Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first feasibility study of its kind targeting perceptions of cognitive impairment during menopause. Although generally well-tolerated, recruitment and scheduling difficulties were flagged as challenges to engagement while a small sample size and lack of control group limit conclusions about efficacy. Providing current results could be replicated with enhanced methods, these results provide support that cognitive remediation is a feasible and credible treatment, and may improve quality of life for women in menopause.

Clinical Trial Registration:www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03311880.