bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiomics signature of epicardial adipose tissue for predicting postoperative atrial fibrillation after pulmonary endarterectomy
Authors: Liu Zhan , Deng Yisen , Wang Xuming , Liu Xiaopeng , Zheng Xia , Sun Guang , Zhen Yanan , Liu Min , Ye Zhidong , Wen Jianyan , Liu Peng
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to construct a radiomics signature of epicardial adipose tissue for predicting postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) after pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH).

Methods

We reviewed the preoperative computed tomography pulmonary angiography images of CTEPH patients who underwent PEA at our institution between December 2016 and May 2022. Patients were divided into training/validation and testing cohorts by stratified random sampling in a ratio of 7:3. Radiomics features were selected by using intra- and inter-class correlation coefficient, redundancy analysis, and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator algorithm to construct the radiomics signature. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate the discrimination, calibration, and clinical practicability of the radiomics signature. Two hundred-times stratified five-fold cross-validation was applied to assess the reliability and robustness of the radiomics signature.

Results

A total of 93 patients with CTEPH were included in this study, including 23 patients with POAF and 70 patients without POAF. Five of the 1,218 radiomics features were finally selected to construct the radiomics signature. The radiomics signature showed good discrimination with an AUC of 0.804 (95%CI: 0.664–0.943) in the training/validation cohort and 0.728 (95% CI: 0.503–0.953) in the testing cohorts. The average AUC of 200 times stratified five-fold cross-validation was 0.804 (95%CI: 0.801–0.806) and 0.807 (95%CI: 0.798–0.816) in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. The calibration curve showed good agreement between the predicted and actual observations. Based on the DCA, the radiomics signature was found to be clinically significant and useful.

Conclusion

The radiomics signature achieved good discrimination, calibration, and clinical practicability. As a potential imaging biomarker, the radiomics signature of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) may provide a reference for the risk assessment and individualized treatment of CTEPH patients at high risk of developing POAF after PEA.
Digital preventive measures for arterial hypertension (DiPaH) – a mixed-methods study protocol for health services research
Authors: Bruch Dunja , Muehlensiepen Felix , May Susann , Wengemuth Eileen , Johannsen Olen , Reber Katrin Christiane , Blankenstein Eva-Lotta , Fleige Gerrit , Middeke Martin , Albes Johannes , Heinze Martin , Lehnen Marc , Spethmann Sebastian
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Digital health measures promise to further improve the quality of cardiovascular care but have not yet been widely implemented in routine care. The research project Digital preventive measures for arterial hypertension (DiPaH) will systematically identify structural and individual factors in different stakeholders that influence the use of digital preventive measures in patients with arterial hypertension in Germany. Special focus is given to remote and sparsely populated areas, the age-specific impact, as well as influence of digital health literacy.

Methods and analysis

The DiPaH project is an exploratory cross-sectional study with a mixed-methods design, in which written surveys and interviews with patients and physicians will be conducted. In addition, secondary data from a health insurance company will be analyzed. In module 1, individuals from the database of the health insurance company with confirmed arterial hypertension will be interviewed (1,600 questionnaires, 30 interviews). Module 2 includes users of digital prevention offers and apps (400 questionnaires, 40 interviews) and in module 3, family physicians and cardiologists will be interviewed (400 questionnaires, 40 interviews). In a final module, the overall results will be analyzed and recommendations for interventions in clinical care will be derived.

Discussion

The DiPaH project will contribute to a patient-oriented and demand-based improvement of arterial hypertension prevention services in health care. Challenges and barriers will be analyzed and the respective target groups identified based on their prevention needs and social characteristics to enable a patient-centered implementation of digital prevention of arterial hypertension and cardiovascular services in general, and finally to improve cardiovascular outcomes.

Clinical trial registration

https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00029761, identifier DRKS00029761.
Reciprocal interferences of the left ventricular assist device and the aortic valve competence
Authors: Vriz Olga , Mushtaq Ali , Shaik Abdullah , El-Shaer Ahmed , Feras Khalid , Eltayeb Abdalla , Alsergnai Hani , Kholaif Naji , Al Hussein Mosaad , Albert-Brotons Dimpna , Simon Andre Rudiger , Tsai Felix Wang
Published: January 2023

Patients suffering from end-stage heart failure tend to have high mortality rates. With growing numbers of patients progressing into severe heart failure, the shortage of available donors is a growing concern, with less than 10% of patients undergoing cardiac transplantation (CTx). Fortunately, the use of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), a variant of mechanical circulatory support has been on the rise in recent years. The expansion of LVADs has led them to be incorporated into a variety of clinical settings, based on the goals of therapy for patients ailing from heart failure. However, with an increase in the use of LVADs, there are a host of complications that arise with it. One such complication is the development and progression of aortic regurgitation (AR) which is noted to adversely influence patient outcomes and compromise pump benefits leading to increased morbidity and mortality. The underlying mechanisms are likely multifactorial and involve the aortic root-aortic valve (AV) complex, as well as the LVAD device, patient, and other factors, all of them alter the physiological mechanics of the heart resulting in AV dysfunction. Thus, it is imperative to screen patients before LVAD implantation for AR, as moderate or greater AR requires a concurrent intervention at the time of LVADs implantation. No current strict guidelines were identified in the literature search on how to actively manage and limit the development and/or progression of AR, due to the limited information. However, some recommendations include medical management by targeting fluid overload and arterial blood pressure, along with adjusting the settings of the LVADs device itself. Surgical interventions are to be considered depending on patient factors, goals of care, and the underlying pathology. These interventions include the closure of the AV, replacement of the valve, and percutaneous approachviapercutaneous occluding device or transcatheter aortic valve implantation. In the present review, we describe the interaction between AV and LVAD placement, in terms of patient management and prognosis. Also it is provided a comprehensive echocardiographic strategy for the precise assessment of AV regurgitation severity.
Conscious sedation/monitored anesthesia care versus general anesthesia in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A meta-analysis
Authors: Hung Kuo-Chuan , Chen Jen-Yin , Hsing Chung-Hsi , Chu Chin-Chen , Lin Yao-Tsung , Pang Yu-Li , Teng I-Chia , Chen I-Wen , Sun Cheuk-Kwan
Published: January 2023

Background

To compare the merits and safety between conscious sedation/monitored anesthesia (CS/MAC) and general anesthesia (GA) for patients receiving transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Measurements

Databases including EMBASE, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception to October 2022 to identify studies investigating the impact of CS/MAC on peri-procedural and prognostic outcomes compared to those with GA. The primary outcome was the association of CS/MAC with the risk of 30-day mortality, while secondary outcomes included the risks of adverse peri-procedural (e.g., vasopressor/inotropic support) and post-procedural (e.g., stroke) outcomes. Subgroup analysis was performed based on study design [i.e., cohort vs. matched cohort/randomized controlled trials (RCTs)].

Main results

Twenty-four studies (observational studies,n= 22; RCTs,n= 2) involving 141,965 patients were analyzed. Pooled results revealed lower risks of 30-day mortality [odd ratios (OR) = 0.66,p< 0.00001, 139,731 patients, certainty of evidence (COE): low], one-year mortality (OR = 0.72,p= 0.001, 4,827 patients, COE: very low), major bleeding (OR = 0.61,p= 0.01, 6,888 patients, COE: very low), acute kidney injury (OR = 0.71,p= 0.01, 7,155 patients, COE: very low), vasopressor/inotropic support (OR = 0.25,p< 0.00001, 133,438 patients, COE: very low), shorter procedure time (MD = −12.27 minutes,p= 0.0006, 17,694 patients, COE: very low), intensive care unit stay (mean difference(MD) = −7.53 hp= 0.04, 7,589 patients, COE: very low), and hospital stay [MD = −0.84 days,p< 0.00001, 19,019 patients, COE: very low) in patients receiving CS/MAC compared to those undergoing GA without significant differences in procedure success rate, risks of cardiac-vascular complications (e.g., myocardial infarction) and stroke. The pooled conversion rate was 3.1%. Results from matched cohort/RCTs suggested an association of CS/MAC use with a shorter procedural time and hospital stay, and a lower risk of vasopressor/inotropic support.

Conclusion

Compared with GA, our results demonstrated that the use of CS/MAC may be feasible and safe in patients receiving TAVR. However, more evidence is needed to support our findings because of our inclusion of mostly retrospective studies.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42022367417.
Moderated digital social therapy for young people with emerging mental health problems: A user-centered mixed-method design and usability study
Authors: van Doorn Marilon , Monsanto Anne , Boeschoten Cato M. , van Amelsvoort Thérèse , Popma Arne , Öry Ferko G. , Alvarez-Jimenez Mario , Gleeson John , Jaspers Monique W. M. , Nieman Dorien H.
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Over 25% of Dutch young people are psychologically unhealthy. Individual and societal consequences that follow from having mental health complaints at this age are substantial. Young people need care which is often unavailable. ENgage YOung people earlY (ENYOY) is a moderated digital social therapy-platform that aims to help youngsters with emerging mental health complaints. Comprehensive research is being conducted into the effects and to optimize and implement the ENYOY-platform throughout the Netherlands. The aim of this study is to explore the usability and user experience of the ENYOY-platform.

Methods

A user-centered mixed-method design was chosen. 26 young people aged 16–25 with emerging mental health complaints participated. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore usability, user-friendliness, impact, accessibility, inclusivity, and connection (Phase 1). Phase 2 assessed usability problems using the concurrent and retrospective Think Aloud-method. User experience and perceived helpfulness were assessed using a 10-point rating scale and semi-structured interviews (Phase 3). The Health Information Technology Usability Evaluation Scale (Health-ITUES; Phase 1) and System Usability Scale (SUS; Phase 2 and 3) were administered. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Task completion rate and time were tracked and usability problems were categorized using the Nielsen's rating scale (Phase 2).

Results

Adequate to high usability was found (Phase 1 Health-ITUES 4.0(0.34); Phase 2 SUS 69,5(13,70); Phase 3 SUS 71,6(5,63)). Findings from Phase 1 (N = 10) indicated that users viewed ENYOY as a user-friendly, safe, accessible, and inclusive initiative which helped them reduce their mental health complaints and improve quality of life. Phase 2 (N = 10) uncovered 18 usability problems of which 5 of major severity (e.g. troubles accessing the platform). Findings from Phase 3 (N = 6) suggested that users perceived the coaching calls the most helpful [9(0.71)] followed by the therapy content [6.25(1.41)]. Users liked the social networking aspect but rated it least helpful [6(2.1)] due to inactivity.

Conclusion

The ENYOY-platform has been found to have adequate to high usability and positive user experiences were reported. All findings will be transferred to the developmental team to improve the platform. Other evaluation methods and paring these with quantitative outcomes could provide additional insight in future research.
An approach to determine brittle upper crustal thinning: Insights into crustal extension discrepancy in the central part of Qiongdongnan Basin
Authors: He Chao , Zhao Zhongxian , Lee Eun Young , Xue Yulong
Published: January 2023

Summing fault heaves is the most commonly used method to evaluate upper crustal thinning. However, since fault deformation width (W) is often assumed as a constant in the range of 75–150 km, the stretching factor estimated from fault geometry (βf) accompanies significant uncertainty. Here we propose a new approach to determine brittle stretching factors on the foundation of numerical analyses of W and further compare our results to previous methods, with specific reference to the central part of Qiongdongnan Basin, South China Sea (SCS). Our results suggest that the value of W is generally less than 80 km and mostly less than 50 km in the northern SCS margin. We confirm that applying an overestimated value of W can lead to an underestimated amount of fault-related extension and overstatement of extension discrepancy in the rifted margin. Results also indicate an inverse discrepancy with our new method in the southeast of the basin. The difference in syn-rift sediment thickness across the rifted margin likely drove the lower crust flow causing a transition between inverse and positive extension discrepancies.
Impact of urban expansion on grain production in the Japan Sea Rim region
Authors: Shen Xiaoli , Zhang Da , Nan Ying , Quan Yue , Yang Fengru , Yao Yuanhao
Published: January 2023

The Japan Sea Rim (JSR) region is the core area for the future sustainable development of Northeast Asia. Effectively assessing the impact of urban expansion on grain production is of great significance for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), such as SDG2 Zero Hunger, and promoting sustainable development in Northeast Asia. Only a few studies have assessed the impact of urban expansion on grain production in the JSR. In this study, we initially analyzed urban expansion in the JSR for the period 1992 to 2050. Then, we assessed the impact of urban expansion on cropland net primary productivity (NPP) based on NPP data. Finally, we evaluated the impact of urban expansion on grain production in the JSR. The results indicated that urban land expanded from 21,509 km2 to 42,501 km2 in the JSR between 1992 and 2020 (an increase of 1.98 times), and the occupation of cropland caused by urban expansion resulted in a decrease of 2.21 million t in grain production. Urban land will continue to expand from 2020 to 2050, which will cause grain production to decrease by 1.68 (1.02–2.24) million t. China will experience the most serious loss of grain production, accounting for 62.93% (56.69–71.60%) of the total grain production loss in the JSR. Considering the situation for the period 1992–2020, the impact of urban expansion on grain production will be moderated in the future. Thus, the future grain production loss will be reduced by 24.18% (8.80–53.98%). However, future urban expansion will continue to have a negative impact on regional food security. Therefore, we suggest that urban development should be reasonably regulated and high-quality cropland should be protected. Meanwhile, we should strengthen international cooperation and optimize food and economic trade among different countries in the JSR to ensure food security and promote sustainable regional development.
Experimental and numerical research of crack propagation process and energy dissipation law of grouting specimens under radial impact load
Authors: Zhu Chang-Xing , Sun Jia-Xin , Gong Jian , Wang Feng-E
Published: January 2023

Different air pressures are used to conduct an impact test based on the split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) test system to study the crack evolution process and energy dissipation law of the cemented rock under impact load. The failure mechanism of the specimens is analyzed from the perspective of dynamic failure process and energy dissipation. The spatial distribution of the specimen components visualized by the image reconstruction technology and the LS-DYNA mesoscopic model is established. Results show that the proportion of dissipated energy, the dynamic tensile strength and peak strain of the specimens increase with strain rate increase. The crack evolution process of the model is quantitatively described under an impact load, which is divided into four stages, namely, no crack stage, slow development stage, accelerated propagation stage and penetration stage. Compared with the indoor and simulation test result, the crack evolution process and failure modes are consistent under different strain rates. When the specimens are destroyed, the energy dissipation rate fluctuates from 10% to 13%. The dissipated energy of cement paste accounts for more than 90% of the total dissipated energy. The cement paste damages first and its strength has a great influence on the strength of the grouting specimens. This study provides a reference to evaluate the cemented rock under a dynamic load.
Unified framework based parallel FEM code for simulating marine seismoacoustic scattering
Authors: Jirong Shen , Shaolin Chen , Jiao Zhang , Puxin Cai
Published: January 2023

The simulation of seismic wave propagation in marine areas, which belongs to seismoacoustic scattering problem, is complicated due to the fluid-solid interaction between seawater and seabed, especially when the seabed is saturated with fluid. Meanwhile, huge computation resources are required for large-scale marine seismic wave simulation. In the paper, an efficient parallel simulation code is developed to solve the near-field seismoacoustic scattering problem. The method and technologies used in this code includes: 1) Unified framework for acoustic-solid-poroelastic interaction analysis, in which seawater and dry bedrock are considered as generalized saturated porous media with porosity equals to one and zero, respectively, and the coupling between seawater, saturated seabed and dry bedrock can be analyzed in the unified framework of generalized saturated porous media and avoid interaction between solvers of different differential equation; 2) Element-by-element strategy and voxel finite-element method (VFEM), with these strategies, it only needs to calculate several classes of element matrix and avoid assembling and storing the global system matrices, which significantly reduces the amount of memory required; 3) Domain-partitioning procedure and parallel computation technology, it performs 3D and 2D model partitioning for the 3D and 2D codes respectively, sets up the velocity structure model for the partitioned domain on each CPU or CPU core, and calculates the seismic wave propagation in the domain using Message Passing Interface data communication at each time step; 4) Local transmitting boundary condition, we adopt multi-transmitting formula, which is independent of specific wave equations, to minimize reflections from the boundaries of the computational model. A horizontal layered model with the plane P-wave incident vertically from bottom is used to demonstrate the computational efficiency and accuracy of our code. Then, the code is used to simulate the wave propagation in Tokyo Bay. All codes were written following to the standards of Fortran 95.
Seismological reference earth model in South China (SREM-SC): Upper mantle
Authors: Tang Qingya , Sun Weijia , Hu Jiamin , Fu Li-Yun
Published: January 2023

This work is the mantle component of constructing the Seismological Reference Earth Model in South China (SREM-SC). Although there has been a wide range of research for imaging the upper mantle structures beneath South China, most of them focus on the large-scale features of the upper mantle, and the depth resolution is insufficient for existing surface wave tomography models to distinguish anomalies below 200 km. This study aims to develop a 3-D upper mantle Seismological Reference Earth Model in South China based on the prior tomography models. The shear wave velocity model comes from the analysis of several seismic surface wave tomography, supplemented by body wave tomography and the P-wave velocity model is constructed by the conversion from S-wave velocity. The radial anisotropy model is calculated from the SV-wave and SH-wave velocity. The Density model of the upper mantle is derived using the empirical relationship linking the density to the shear-wave velocity. The model is grid with 0.5° × 0.5° in latitude and longitude and 5 km interval in depth from 60 to 300 km. The mantle component of Seismological Reference Earth Model in South China is expected to provide a good representation of the upper mantle structures for further detailed studies. The mantle component of Seismological Reference Earth Model in South China provides new insights into upper mantle structures that should be meaningful to reveal the dynamic mechanism and tectonic evolution of South China.
Two-dimensional fast imaging of airborne EM data based on U-net
Authors: Liu Qiang , Yin Changchun , Su Yang , Liu Yunhe , Wang Luyuan , Liang Hao , Wang Han
Published: January 2023

As an efficient geophysical exploration tool, the airborne electromagnetic (AEM) method has been widely used in mineral exploration, geological mapping, environmental and engineering investigation, etc. Currently, the imaging and 1D inversions are the mainstream means for AEM interpretation as the amount of AEM data is huge and 2D and 3D inversions are not efficient. In this paper, we propose a 2D fast imaging method for frequency-domain AEM data based on U-net network. The U-net is a symmetric full-convolution neural network, in which the partial pooling operation between the convolution layers is replaced by the up-sampling operation, while the target location is achieved by skipping connection. This method does not need to consider the complex coupling between the EM responses and underground structures, but instead it establishes a mapping relationship between EM responses and the resistivity model and can quickly achieve accurate imaging of AEM data. We use this network to image both synthetic and field survey data and compare the results with the traditional inversion algorithms. The results show that the U-net imaging have high resolution at high speed that provides a new way for interpreting large amounts of AEM data.
The impact of uncertainty on farmers’ adoption of straw returning technology in Northwest China
Authors: Ge Yan , Wu Haixia
Published: January 2023

Straw returning technology has the potential to not only enhance the crop’s nitrogen yield but also protect the ecological environment and enhance crop yield. This paper explores the impact of uncertainty on rural households’ adoption of straw returning technology using an experimental method based on 703 wheat planting households in the Loess Plateau, China. The results show that 1) most farmers are inclined to risk aversion, and farmers generally have the characteristics of ambiguity aversion. 2) Risk preference and ambiguity preference obviously and negatively impact the possibility of adopting straw returning technology, and when the farmer’s risk preference and ambiguity preference increase by 0.1 units, the probability of adopting straw returning technology will decrease by 19.4% and 17.1%, respectively. 3) When we take the risk preference and ambiguity preference together into account, risk preference has sufficiently large effects on farmers’ decision on adopting straw returning technology relative to ambiguity preference. Overall, this research provides a micro-foundation and policy recommendations for farmers’ straw returning technology promotion in rural China and sheds light upon how the government can formulate relevant policies to promote green environmental development.
Characterization of the Plant‒Soil feedback index in alpine meadow degradation and recovery: A field experiment
Authors: Yandi She , Tao Ma , Huakun Zhou , Honglin Li , Zhonghua Zhang , Li Ma , Ruimin Qin , Hongye Su , Tao Chang , Jingjing Wei , Xue Hu
Published: January 2023

Most plant‒soil feedback studies have been conducted on the mechanism by which soil directly influences plant growth performance and mostly in indoor pot experiments; however, it is unclear how plant‒soil feedback is influenced by plant, soil and microbial diversity in grassland ecosystems in alpine meadows with high plant diversity. In this study, plant‒soil feedback patterns were investigated by analyzing plant, soil and microbial characteristics across seven gradients in the time series from light degradation to 10-years of recovery, classified into three categories: ecosystem multifunctionality, biotic and abiotic factors, and comparing the strength and magnitude of plant‒soil feedback in alpine meadows of degradation stages and years of recovery. The results showed that the plant-soil feedback relationships in alpine meadows differed significantly in three aspects: ecosystem multifunctionality, biotic and abiotic factors in the degradation stage and recovery years, and under the degradation gradient, ecosystem multifunctionality decreased from 0.34 to −0.99 with the deepening of degradation, biotic factors increased from −0.17 to 0.09, and abiotic factors increased from −0.17 to 0.15, while in the recovery gradient, ecosystem multifunctionality showed a trend of increasing and then decreasing with increasing recovery years, while biotic and abiotic factors showed fluctuating changes. The plant-soil feedback index indicated that the strength and direction of plant-soil interactions during degradation and recovery were different, and the positive feedback effect was 0.34 and 0.38 in the early stage of degradation and recovery, respectively, which were greater than the negative feedback effect. With the deepening of degradation, the negative feedback effect became more and more obvious, and at the stage of extreme degradation, the negative feedback effect reached −0.99, which was much larger than the positive feedback effect. However, with the increase of the recovery years, the positive feedback effect gradually weakened, and finally all of them were negative feedback effects at 10-years of recovery. This study provides a scientific basis for understanding plant-soil feedback in alpine meadow ecosystems and indicates the direction for the next scientific recovery of alpine meadows.
Underestimated increase and intensification of humid-heat extremes across southeast China due to humidity data inhomogeneity
Authors: Li Xuezhu , Chen Yang , Zhu Yani , Shi Yan , An Ning , Liao Zhen
Published: January 2023

When co-occurring with elevated levels of ambient relative humidity (RH), hot extremes are more perceivable and consequently more health-damaging. Quantifying changes in humid-heat extremes has therefore gained considerable scientific and societal attention, but a fundamental yet critical aspect to the estimation—data reliability—has been largely downplayed in previous analysis. By comparing ∼10 observational and reanalysis datasets to fully-homogenized observations across China, we report ubiquitous inhomogeneity in RH series in these popularly-used datasets [including HadISD(H) and ERA5], which accordingly produce unrealistically strong drying trends 2–3 times the homogenized dataset-based estimate during 1979–2013 in warm-moist southeast China. Locally, an inhomogeneity-caused exaggeration of drying by a magnitude of 1% decade−1 translates into a significant underestimation of increasing rates for frequency and intensity of humid-heat extremes by more than 1.2 days decade−1 and .07% decade−1 respectively. From a regional perspective, these inhomogeneous records have underestimated the frequency increase of extremes by up to 2 days decade−1 and their intensification by up to .4°C decade−1 in southeast China. Extremes identified via homogenized and non-homogenized datasets also differ in the bivariate joint distribution structure, with former cases featuring similarly hot temperatures yet discernably lower humidity.
Variations and influencing factors of soil organic carbon during the tropical forest succession from plantation to secondary and old–growth forest
Authors: Xing Guitong , Wang Xiaofang , Jiang Yamin , Yang Huai , Mai Siwei , Xu Wenxian , Hou Enqing , Huang Xingzhao , Yang Qiu , Liu Wenjie , Long Wenxing
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Soil organic carbon (SOC) accumulation changed with forest succession and hence impacted the SOC storage. However, the variation and underlying mechanisms about SOC during tropical forest succession are not fully understood.

Methods

Soil samples at four depths (0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, 20–40 cm and 40–60 cm), litter, and roots of 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm were collected from three forest succession stages (plantation forest, secondary forest, and old– growth forest) in the Jianfengling (JFL) National Nature Reserve in Hainan Island, China. The SOC, soil enzyme activities, physiochemical properties, the biomass of litter and roots were analyzed.

Results

Results showed that forest succession significantly increased SOC at 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm depth (from 23.00 g/kg to 33.70 g/kg and from 14.46 g/kg to 22.55 g/kg, respectively) but not at a deeper depth (20–60 cm). SOC content of the three forest succession stages decreased with increasing soil depth and bulk density (BD). With forest succession from plantation to secondary and old–growth forest, the soil pH at 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm depth decreased from 5.08 to 4.10 and from 5.52 to 4.64, respectively. Structural equation model (SEM) results showed that the SOC at depths of 0–20 cm increased with total root biomass but decreased with increasing soil pH value. The direct positive effect of soil TP on SOC was greater than the indirect negative effect of decomposition of SOC by soil acid phosphatase (AP).

Discussion

To sum up, the study highlighted there was soil P– limited in tropical forests of JFL, and the increase in TP and total root biomass inputs were main factors favoring SOC sequestration during the tropical forest succession. In addition, soil acidification is of great importance for SOC accumulation in tropical forests for forest succession in the future. Therefore, forest succession improved SOC accumulation, TP and roots contributed to soil C sequestration.
A complex heterozygous mutation in PADI6 causes early embryo arrest: A case report
Authors: Zhang Ting , Liu Peng , Yao Guanfeng , Zhang Xin , Cao Cuijuan
Published: January 2023

Background: The PADI6 gene is a component of the subcortical maternal effect complex (SCMC). Mutations in the PADI6 gene, which was the first gene discovered to impact the activation process of the human embryonic genome, have been shown to induce early embryo arrest.

Case: A 29-year-old lady with primary infertility underwent in vitro fertilization embryo transfer (IVF-ET) for tubal reasons, who had normal hormone levels and ovarian reserve. A Progestin-Primed Ovarian Stimulation (PPOS) protocol of Ovarian stimulation with IVF was performed. The total of Gonadotropin (Gn) stimulation with u-FSH was 2100 IU, which lasted for 10 days. When three follicles measuring less than 18 mm in diameter were seen, r-hCG 250 ug and triptorelin acetate 0.2 mg were injected to trigger oocyte maturation. Nineteen oocytes (including thirteen MII oocytes) were picked up 37 h after the trigger, and seven of these were normal fertilized. Unfortunately, these many embryos were stopped at the 1- or 2-cell stage, hence this infertile patient’s IVF treatment won't result in an embryo transfer. Using whole-exome sequencing, a complex heterozygous mutation in PADI6 was discovered: c. 1247T>C [p.Ile416Thr] in exon 12 of PADI6, and c. 2009_2010del [p.Glu670GlyfsTer48] in exon 17 of PADI6.

Conclusion: We found a complex heterozygous mutation in the PADI6 gene (c. 1247T>C; c. 2009_2010del) that caused embryos were arrested at the 1- or 2- cell stage. The discovery in this patient adds to the evidence showing the PADI6 gene mutation causes early embryo arrest in humans.
Impact of mouse model tumor implantation site on acquired resistance to anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint therapy
Authors: Denis Morgane , Mathé Doriane , Micoud Manon , Choffour Pierre-Antoine , Grasselly Chloé , Matera Eva-Laure , Dumontet Charles
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The use of tumor subcutaneous (SC) implantations rather than orthotopic sites is likely to induce a significant bias, in particular, in the field of immunotherapy.

Methods

In this study, we developed and characterized MC38 models, implanted subcutaneously and orthotopically, which were either sensitive or rendered resistant to anti-PD1 therapy. We characterized the tumor immune infiltrate by flow cytometry at baseline and after treatment.

Results and Discussion

Our results demonstrate several differences between SC and orthotopic models at basal state, which tend to become similar after therapy. These results emphasize the need to take into account tumor implantation sites when performing preclinical studies with immunotherapeutic agents.
Differentially expressed genes in head kidney of Pelteobagrus fulvidraco following Vibrio cholerae challenge
Authors: Jiang Sen-Hao , Wu Lin-Xin , Cai Yu-Ting , Ma Rui-Ting , Zhang Hua-Bin , Zhang Dai-Zhen , Tang Bo-Ping , Liu Qiu-Ning , Dai Li-Shang
Published: January 2023

The yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco) is a freshwater fish with high economic value in eastern China. Nevertheless, pathogens causing bacterial diseases in P. fulvidraco have brought about huge economic loss and high mortality in artificial aquaculture. For disease control, it is critical to further understand the immune system of yellow catfish and immune-related genes with which they respond to pathogenic infections. In this study, high-throughput sequencing methods were used to analyze the transcriptomic spectrum of the head kidney from P. fulvidraco challenged by Vibrio cholera. A total of 45,544 unique transcript fragments (unigenes) were acquired after assembly and annotation, with an average length of 1,373 bp. Additionally, 674 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified after stimulation with V. cholerae, 353 and 321 genes were identified as remarkably up- or downregulated, respectively. To further study the immune-related DEGs, we performed KEGG enrichment and GO enrichment. The results showed gene regulation of response to stimulus, immune response, immune system progress, response to external stimuli and cellular response to stimuli. Analysis of KEGG enrichment is important to identify chief immune related pathways. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) results indicated 10 immune response genes that were found to be upregulated compared to a control group after 6 h of V. cholerae challenging. In summary, the results of our study are helpful to determine the defense mechanisms and immune system responses of yellow catfish in reaction to bacterial challenges.
Dendritic cells and natural killer cells: The road to a successful oncolytic virotherapy
Authors: Ghasemi Matin , Abbasi Laleh , Ghanbari Naeini Leila , Kokabian Pajman , Nameh Goshay Fard Najmeh , Givtaj Nozar
Published: January 2023

Every type of cancer tissue is theoretically more vulnerable to viral infection. This natural proclivity has been harnessed as a new anti-cancer therapy by employing oncolytic viruses (OVs) to selectively infect and destroy cancer cells while providing little or no harm with no toxicity to the host. Whereas the primary oncolytic capabilities of OVs initially sparked the greatest concern, the predominant focus of research is on the association between OVs and the host immune system. Numerous OVs are potent causal agents of class I MHC pathway-related chemicals, enabling early tumor/viral immune recognition and cytokine-mediated response. The modified OVs have been studied for their ability to bind to dendritic cells (DCs) by expressing growth factors, chemokines, cytokines, and defensins inside the viral genome. OVs, like reovirus, can directly infect DCs, causing them to release chemokines and cytokines that attract and excite natural killer (NK) cells. In addition, OVs can directly alter cancer cells’ sensitivity to NK by altering the expression levels of NK cell activators and inhibitors on cancerous cells. Therefore, NK cells and DCs in modulating the therapeutic response should be considered when developing and improving future OV-based therapeutics, whether modified to express transgenes or used in combination with other drugs/immunotherapies. Concerning the close relationship between NK cells and DCs in the potential of OVs to kill tumor cells, we explore how DCs and NK cells in tumor microenvironment affect oncolytic virotherapy and summarize additional information about the interaction mentioned above in detail in this work.
Influence of oyster and seaweed cultivation facilities on coastal environment and eukaryote assemblages in Matsushima Bay, northeastern Honshu, Japan
Authors: Okumura Yutaka , Masuda Yoshio , Matsutani Minenosuke , Shiomoto Akihiro
Published: January 2023

The northeastern coast of Japan suffered a massive tsunami in 2011, a natural disaster which ‘reset’ the coastal ecosystem when it destroyed much of the original sealife and scoured the seabed. This has presented an opportunity to learn more about the load on coastal ecosystems exerted by human exploitation such as aquaculture rafts and areas of anchored and float-suspended ropes. We surveyed the coastal environment in Matsushima Bay for approximately four years following the year after the occurrence of the 2011 tsunami. Phytoplankton abundance increased with increasing water temperature. Nutrient concentrations were high at the exit of a small branch of the Ofuna-iri Canal (entering the southwestern inner part of the bay at Shiogama) but no significant differences in nutrient concentrations were observed at other stations, so it is considered that the aquaculture installations in Matsushima Bay currently have no significant effect on observed nutrient concentrations. The composition of eukaryotes in the surface seawater varied with the year and the season, but there were no clear differences between sampling stations. The lack of any differences in nutrient concentrations or eukaryote assemblages between areas with or without aquaculture installations is considered to be a result of efficient seawater exchange, despite the presence of many small islets separating Matsushima Bay from the open ocean. In addition, the aquaculture installations at present number less than half of the maximum number before the tsunami, so the bay is by no means overexploited by aquaculture. It is concluded that the current aquaculture installations have no major negative impact on the environment in Matsushima Bay.
Deep-sea biology in undergraduate classrooms: Open access data from remotely operated vehicles provide impactful research experiences
Authors: Gerringer Mackenzie E. , Ismail Yumna , Cannon Kayla A. , Camilo Hernández Arline , Gonzales Peralta Franchesca , Bohen Ryan , Cartwright Joseph C. , Feasley Austin , Fregosi Lydia , Lehman Hannah , Niles Hailey , Quay Jillian , Sherpa Nima , Woodworth Brett H. , Cantwell Kasey
Published: January 2023

Opportunities for students to conduct research in courses increase feelings of belonging in science, retention in STEM majors, and sense of ownership in a student’s educational experience. However, many research fields are challenging to bring to students: for example, deep-sea biology often requires expensive expeditions, restricting participation and accessibility. Access to deep-sea systems has been expanded by programs such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Ocean Exploration (NOAA Ocean Exploration), which uses telepresence to bring deep-sea exploration to a global audience. Here, we present one example of how remotely operated vehicles can engage students in original research. Students in an undergraduate Marine Biology lab at at the State University of New York at Geneseo investigated the relationship between substrate rugosity and biodiversity of cold-water coral communities and associate fauna. The study site in the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument was explored by NOAA Ocean Exploration using NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer as part of the 2017 Mountains in the Deep Expedition, EX1705. Organism density was greater at higher rugosity levels, suggesting that complex substrates support higher abundances in deep-sea communities. This research experience enhanced student’s understanding of the scientific process, appreciation for deep-sea communities, and engagement in the course. Open access deep-sea data provide impactful opportunities for students to participate in original research, increasing the accessibility and reach of deep-sea science.
Homoepitaxial growth of 3-inch single crystalline AlN boules by the physical vapor transport process
Authors: Wang Qikun , Lei Dan , Huang Jiali , Sun Xiaojuan , Li Dabing , Zhou Zhenxiang , Wu Liang
Published: January 2023

Single crystalline aluminum nitride (sc-AlN or AlN) boules with a diameter of 3-inch (Φ76 mm) were successfully prepared by the physical vapor transport (PVT) process. The initial homoepitaxial growth run was performed on an aluminum nitride seed sliced from a Φ51 mm aluminum nitride boule, and diameter enlargement was conducted iteratively via the lateral expansion technique until a Φ76 mm boule was achieved. During the diameter expansion growth runs, the crystal shape transitioned from a hexagonal pyramid to a cylindrical pyramid. After the standard slicing and wafering processes, the as-obtained substrates were characterized by high-resolution X-ray diffraction (HRXRD), preferential chemical etching, and optical spectroscopy. The characterization results revealed that the aluminum nitride substrates showed good crystallinity and excellent UV transparency, although a slight quality deterioration was observed when the crystal size was expanded from Φ51 to Φ76 mm, while the deep-UV (DUV) transparency remained very similar to that of the aluminum nitride seeds. The Φ76 mm aluminum nitride boules obtained in this study are an important milestone towards achieving Φ100 mm (4-inch) aluminum nitride, which are essential for the rapid commercialization of deep-UV optoelectronics and ultra-wide bandgap (UWBG) electronics.
An exploration of biosimilar TNF-alpha inhibitors uptake determinants in hospital environments in Italy, Portugal, and Spain
Authors: Barcina Lacosta Teresa , Vulto Arnold G. , Huys Isabelle , Simoens Steven
Published: January 2023

Background

The availability of biosimilar medicines in Southern European markets has allowed purchasing biologics at a lower cost for healthcare systems. However, the capacity to seize this cost-reduction opportunity in the long run depends on fostering a sustainable competitive environment for all the market players involved. Diverse policies and information campaigns have been launched in Italy, Portugal and Spain to support uptake of “best-value” biologics (BVB). Despite these measures, the utilization of lower-cost biologics in certain regions is low, especially when it comes to the treatment of chronic conditions.

Objective

We aim to identify biosimilar uptake determinants in hospital environments in Italy, Portugal and Spain, using the class of TNF-alpha inhibitors as an example.

Methods

This is a mixed-methods study based on (1) the quantitative analysis of regional uptake data for TNF-alpha inhibitor biosimilars and (2) the qualitative processing of semi-structured interviews capturing experts’ views on uptake determinants for biosimilars.

Results

The organization of multi-stakeholder information campaigns supporting TNF-alpha inhibitor biosimilars use in Italy, Portugal and Spain has resulted in an increased familiarity of healthcare professionals and patients with the prescription/use of these products. However, barriers persist that impede high biosimilars uptake, especially in chronic patient populations eligible for a switch. These are: (1) the late publication of position statements on biosimilars interchangeability by regulatory health authorities; (2) the vague positioning of (national/regional) health authorities on best switching practices (including multiple biosimilar-to-biosimilar switches); (3) the existence of policy frameworks that do not necessarily support the initiation of switching protocols; (4) the establishment of sometimes inefficient purchasing procedures that limit biosimilars potential to compete for market shares. Diverse approaches taken regionally to address these barriers have contributed to heterogeneous TNF-alpha inhibitor biosimilars uptake across Southern Europe.

Conclusion

Our research signaled the limited reach of biosimilar policies implemented locally, if not supported by a national policy framework. This study highlights the need for the coordinated implementation of policy measures fostering biosimilars use at the regional and national level in Italy, Portugal and Spain. These measures should account for the particularities of off-patent biologic and biosimilar markets and should jointly address supply- and demand-side challenges.
Genotype-protein phenotype characterization of NOD2 and IL23R missense variants associated with inflammatory bowel disease: A paradigm from molecular modelling, dynamics, and docking simulations
Authors: Nasser Khalidah Khalid , Shinawi Thoraia
Published: January 2023

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a gastrointestinal disease with an underlying contribution of genetic, microbial, environment, immunity factors. The coding region risk markers identified by IBD genome wide association studies have not been well characterized at protein phenotype level. Therefore, this study is conducted to characterize the role of NOD2 (Arg675Trp and Gly908Arg) and IL23R (Gly149Arg and Arg381Gln) missense variants on the structural and functional features of corresponding proteins. Thus, we used different variant pathogenicity assays, molecular modelling, secondary structure, stability, molecular dynamics, and molecular docking analysis methods. Our findings suggest that SIFT, Polyphen, GREP++, PhyloP, SiPhy and REVEL methods are very sensitive in determining pathogenicity of NOD2 and IL23R missense variants. We have also noticed that all the tested missense variants could potentially alter secondary (α-helices, β-strands, and coils) and tertiary (residue level deviations) structural features. Moreover, our molecular dynamics (MD) simulation findings have simulated that NOD2 (Arg675Trp and Gly908Arg) and IL23R (Gly149Arg and Arg381Gln) variants creates rigid local structures comprising the protein flexibility and conformations. These predictions are corroborated by molecular docking results, where we noticed that NOD2 and IL23R missense variants induce molecular interaction deformities with RIPK2 and JAK2 ligand molecules, respectively. These functional alterations could potentially alter the signal transduction pathway cascade involved in inflammation and autoimmunity. Drug library searches and findings from docking studies have identified the inhibitory effects of Tacrolimus and Celecoxib drugs on NOD2 and IL23R variant forms, underlining their potential to contribute to personalized medicine for IBD. The present study supports the utilization of computational methods as primary filters (pre-in vitro and in vivo) in studying the disease potential mutations in the context of genptype-protein phenotype characteristics.