bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary Vasculature Responsiveness to Phosphodiesterase-5A Inhibition in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction: Possible Role of Plasma Potassium
Authors: Monzo Luca , Reichenbach Adrian , Al-Hiti Hikmet , Jurcova Ivana , Huskova Zuzana , Kautzner Josef , Melenovsky Vojtech
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Phosphodiesterase-5a inhibition (PDE5i) leads to favorable changes in pulmonary hemodynamic and cardiac output (CO) in patients with advanced heart failure (HF) and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The hemodynamic response to PDE5i could be heterogeneous and the clinical variables associated with these changes are scarcely investigated.

Materials and Methods

Of 260 patients with advanced HFrEF referred for advanced therapies [cardiac transplant/left ventricular assist device (LVAD)], 55 had pulmonary hypertension (PH) and fulfilled the criteria for the PDE5i vasoreactivity test. Right heart catheterization (RHC) was performed as a part of clinical evaluation before and after 20-mg intravenous sildenafil. Absolute and relative changes in pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) were evaluated to assess hemodynamic response to PDE5i. Clinical, biochemical, and hemodynamic factors associated with PVR changes were identified.

Results

Sildenafil administration reduced PVR (− 45.3%) and transpulmonary gradient (TPG; − 34.8%) and increased CO (+ 13.6%). Relative change analysis showed a negative moderate association between baseline plasma potassium and changes in PVR (r = − 0.48; p = 0.001) and TPG (r = − 0.43; p = 0.005) after PDE5i. Aldosterone concentration shows a direct moderate association with PVR changes after PDE5i. A significant moderate association was also demonstrated between CO improvement and the severity of mitral (r = 0.42; p = 0.002) and tricuspid (r = 0.39; p = 0.004) regurgitation.

Conclusion

We identified plasma potassium, plasma aldosterone level, and atrioventricular valve regurgitations as potential cofounders of hemodynamic response to acute administration of PDE5i. Whether modulation of potassium levels could enhance pulmonary vasoreactivity in advanced HFrEF deserves further research.
Myocardial Injury in COVID-19 and Its Implications in Short- and Long-Term Outcomes
Authors: Izquierdo-Marquisá Andrea , Cubero-Gallego Hector , Aparisi Álvaro , Vaquerizo Beatriz , Ribas-Barquet Núria
Published: June 2022

COVID-19 caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still a pandemic with high mortality and morbidity rates. Clinical manifestation is widely variable, including asymptomatic or mild respiratory tract illness to severe pneumonia and death. Myocardial injury is a significant pathogenic feature of COVID-19 and it is associated with worse in-hospital outcomes, mainly due to a higher number of hospital readmissions, with over 50% mortality. These findings suggest that myocardial injury would identify COVID-19 patients with higher risk during active infection and mid-term follow-up. Potential contributors responsible for myocardial damage are myocarditis, vasculitis, acute inflammation, type 1 and type 2 myocardial infarction. However, there are few data about cardiac sequelae and its long-term consequences. Thus, the optimal screening tool for residual cardiac sequelae, clinical follow-up, and the benefits of a specific cardiovascular therapy during the convalescent phase remains unknown. This mini-review explores the different mechanisms of myocardial injury related to COVID-19 and its short and long-term implications.
Hypertension in Women
Authors: Tasić Tatjana , Tadić Marijana , Lozić Maja
Published: June 2022

Hypertension is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in the human population. Nevertheless, the intricate network of pathophysiological mechanisms that lead to the development of hypertension in women still awaits to be fully understood. From young age to maturity and senescence, the female body transits through different stages, each of them characterized with specific physiological features and disposition to particular pathological conditions, and that is exactly what makes the understanding of the genesis and adequate treatment of hypertension in women so challenging. Clinical and experimental findings emphasize the role of sex hormones, autonomic nervous system, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and arterial stiffness in the development of chronically elevated blood pressure in females. The purpose of this review is to briefly summarize the knowledge of the mechanisms and treatment of hypertension in women.
Splenic Artery Embolization and Splenectomy for Spontaneous Rupture of Splenic Hemangioma and Its Imaging Features
Authors: Lin Jia-Li , Lin Can , Wang Han-Lu , Wu Shao-Jie , Tang Yi , Yang Chang Shun , Luo Jie-Wei , Chi Wu , Fang Zhu-Ting
Published: June 2022

Background

Spontaneous splenic rupture (SSR) is a rare, often life-threatening, acute abdominal injury that requires immediate diagnosis and early treatment. SSR is mainly treated surgically or conservatively. A few cases of interventional embolization for SSRs have been reported.

Case Presentation

A 30-year-old male patient complaining mainly of left upper abdominal pain underwent emergency abdominal computed tomography (CT) and showed enlargement of the spleen with a massive mixed-density shadow approximately 10.0 × 8.0 × 12.5 cm in size. The boundary was unclear and showed obvious progressive enhancement. Considering the intrasplenic tumor lesions with rupture and hemorrhage, the possibility of vascular tumors was high, with intraperitoneal blood and fluid accumulation. Digital subtraction angiography of the splenic arteriography and embolization of the ruptured splenic artery branches were performed. Postoperative hemoglobin progressively decreased, inflammatory indicators, such as white blood cell counts, procalcitonin (PCT), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were significantly increased, and 2 days after embolization, the patient developed severe hypoxemia, shock, pulmonary edema, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. CT re-examination 9 days after embolization showed reduced lesion absorption. After stabilization of the condition, splenectomy was performed, and postoperative platelet count increase, anticoagulant improvement, and discharge were observed. Postoperative pathological examination revealed extensive hemorrhage and necrosis, vascular tissue with abnormal hyperplasia in the surrounding area, vascular tissue in the bleeding area and outer wall (elastic fiber staining +), and local myofibroblast hyperplasia. Immunohistochemistry showed actin (SM +) and Ki67 (10% +).

Conclusion

SSR caused by splenic hemangioma is rare, and the choice between surgical treatment or splenic artery embolization remains dependent on the patient's hemodynamic stability and imaging findings.
Research on 3D Development Characteristics of Water-Conducting Fractured Zone Based on Field Measurement
Authors: Feng Dong , Hou Enke , Wang Shuangming , Xie Xiaoshen , Yuan Feng , Guo Liangliang , Wang Gang , Xie Yongli , Chen Zhen
Published: June 2022

With the large-scale mining of coal resources in western China, coal resources are gradually shifting from shallow to deep mining. In coal seam mining, the overlying rock water-conducting fractured zone (WCFZ) is the main factor causing mine water damage and water resource damage. Accurately grasping the development height of the water-conducting fissure zone is the key to the prevention of water hazards and the protection of water resources in medium–deep coal seams. In this study, the 3D development form of the WCFZ in the middle and deep coal seam mining is studied by the integrated method of drilling and 3D seismic survey, taking the first mining face of Xiaobodang No.1 mine in Yushen such that the height of the WCFZ measured by drilling is 81.50–177.07 m. The height of WCFZ development in the 3D seismic survey was 79.83–178.03 m, and the morphology of the WCFZ was saddle-shaped. This study provides methodological guidance for predicting the 3D morphology and developmental characteristics of the WCFZ. The results obtained are of great significance for the safe, green, and efficient mining of coal seams in medium and deep buried ecologically fragile environments.
Enhanced Multi-Dimensional Inversion Through Target-Specific Inversion Parameter Bounds With an Application to Crosswell Electromagnetic for Sequestration Monitoring
Authors: Commer Michael , Alumbaugh David L. , Hoversten G. Michael , Um Evan S. , Vasco Donald W. , Wilt Michael , Nichols Edward , Marchesini Pierpaolo , Macquet Marie
Published: June 2022

In geophysical inversions, lower and upper model parameter bounds are a means of solution stabilization. Further, constraints that intend to let only geologically plausible inverse solutions pass are amenable to lower and upper bounds. Reliable prior information is paramount to construct such bound constraints. It is common practice to narrow and widen bound intervals for regions of, respectively, more and less certain prior information. Contrary to this practice, we experiment with widened bound intervals in zones that are poorly resolved by a given survey configuration but where prior information would suggest structural anomalies of interest. The purpose of enlarged parameter bounds that correlate spatially with predefined targets is to let the inversion explore a larger solution space, thus increasing the potential to resolve otherwise hidden anomalies. Application of the method is based on a carbon-sequestration baseline (pre-injection) crosswell electromagnetic (EM) field survey at the Containment and Monitoring Institute Field Research Station (Alberta, Canada), where impeded measurements led to generally reduced sensitivities for the interwell region. Synthetic-data proofs of concept use augmented bounds designed to boost the resolution of artificial plume targets, indicating an enhanced illumination compared to constant bounds. Comparative field data inversions with spatially variable bounds constructed from prior resistivity and velocity information highlight non-horizontal baseline structures.
Cirque Floor Altitude of the Gangdise Mountains and its Controlling Factors
Authors: Dou Jiahui , Mou Juan , Zhang Qian
Published: June 2022

The cirque floor altitude (CFA) was used to indicate the patterns of paleoprecipitation, paleocloudiness, palaeoglaciation, and paleo-equilibrium line altitude (ELA). However, CFA is also affected by non-climatic factors, which limits its efficacy of being a paleoclimatic indicator. This study focuses on the Gangdise Mountains with an aim to investigate the controlling factors on CFA and test the CFA efficiency as an indicator of paleoclimate. A total of 1652 cirques were identified, and their CFAs were analysed in this study. The results show that the lowest CFA is in the eastern part of the Gangdise Mountains, followed by the western and central parts. This spatial distribution is in contrast with that of precipitation. This means that the development of the cirque is favoured by high precipitation. The high CFA values on southern and western slopes are due to effects of solar radiation and wind. The weak correlation between the cirque height and CFA and their different spatial distributions imply that cirque deepening is not the main factor affecting CFA. Various bedrocks of cirques manifest different CFA values, while the spatial patterns of the CFAs in the western, central and eastern parts can be partly explained by their bedrock types. The CFA values of the Gangdise Mountains are higher than those of the central Tibetan Plateau (TP). The CFA spatial distribution of the central TP is in contrast with that of precipitation, highlighting that precipitation is the primary control of the CFA. The relief and glacier type significantly control the CFAs. These findings lead to the conclusion that CFA is not always an actual indicator of paleoclimate on a large regional scale.
Effects of Deep Fluids on Middle Permian Dolomite of the Western Sichuan Basin
Authors: Huang Huiwen , Chen Hongde , Huo Fei , Yang Shuai , Chen Anqing
Published: June 2022

Deep fluid activity is closely related to carbonate reservoir transformation as well as oil and gas accumulation. The large-scale deep fluid activity caused by Emeishan large igneous province (ELIP) brought a lot of deep material and energy to Sichuan Basin and changed the paleogeothermal and geochemical field of the region they flowed through, which had an important impact on the formation of the Middle Permian dolomite reservoir in Western Sichuan. Through comprehensive analyses of petrographic, geochemical, and fluid inclusion data from two drill cores and three outcrop sections of the Middle Permian Formation in the Western Sichuan Basin, the dolomitizing fluid, dolomite genesis, and effect of deep fluid were discussed. The dolomite was divided into four types which are matrix dolomites (Md1, Md2, and Md3) and cement dolomites (Cd). Among them, the Md1 was formed in penecontemporaneous seawater by seepage reflux dolomitization, while Md2 was formed in heated Permian seawater through thermal convection. In the northwest of the study area, the Md3 and Cd were formed by higher-temperature thermal convection without hydrothermal. In the southwest of the study area, the lower δ13C value and Sr contents, higher Mn contents and 87Sr/86Sr ratios, and positive Eu anomalies as well as much higher Th and salinity values of inclusions show that hydrothermal participated in the dolomitization, forming the Md3 and Cd through structure-hydrothermal dolomitization and the thermal convection of seawater mixed with hydrothermal. The deep fluid activities of ELIP provided both the material source (Mg2+) for the dolomitization process and the migration motive power for the dolomitization fluid. From the southwest to northwest, with the deep fluid activity decreasing, the abundance of Md3 and Cd, which are closely related to the hydrothermal solution, reduced.
Late Pleistocene Slip Rates on an Active Normal Fault in the Northwestern Ordos Block, China
Authors: Liu Xingwang , Gao Zemin , Shao Yanxiu , Yao Yunsheng
Published: June 2022

The slip rates of normal faults on the northern margin of the Ordos Block are critical for understanding the deformation of the Ordos Block and adjacent areas. In this study, we obtain the late Pleistocene slip rate of an active normal fault, the Zhuozishan West Piedmont Fault (ZWPF), in the northwestern corner of the Ordos Block. Satellite imagery interpretation and field investigations suggest that the fault displaces late Pleistocene alluvial fans and forms west-facing fault scarps. To quantify the vertical slip rate of the ZWPF, we measured the displacements along the fault scarps using differential GPS and an unmanned aerial vehicle system and dated the displaced geomorphic surfaces using optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating methods. The vertical slip rate of the fault is constrained to 0.1 ± 0.02 mm/a, which suggests a horizontal extension rate of 0.05 mm/a for a dip of 65°. This rate is consistent with those on similar structures in the northwestern Ordos Block. Combining this result with published slip rates along other active faults, we infer that the NW-directed extension rate across the northwestern corner of the Ordos Block is ∼0.6–1.3 mm/a. This rate is comparable with the geodetic strain rate. Given the extension rate, we believe that extensional deformation is mainly concentrated on the western side of the basin.
The Effects of Individual-Level and Group-Level Trust on Willingness to Communicate in the Group Language Learning
Authors: Ito Takehiko , Furuyabu Mariko , Toews-Shimizu Jennifer
Published: June 2022

This study examined the effects of individual-level and group-level trust on willingness to communicate (WTC) in a second language, targeting Japanese university students in a group-language (English) learning setting. Although the effects of group language learning on students’ learning attitudes and the effects of trust on WTC in a second language have been examined extensively, no study has examined group-level factors in a group-language learning setting. A questionnaire survey was conducted thrice per semester. Multilevel analysis found that individual-level trust in group members positively influenced individual-level WTC in English, and group-level trust in group members also positively influenced group-level WTC in English repeatedly through one semester. Moreover, the degree of group-level WTC in English changed after the mid-semester. This study contributes to the literature on group-language learning, and has implications for language education where educators must be mindful not only of each student’s characteristics but also of each group’s characteristics to enhance their performance.
Association of Diabetes Mellitus With Postoperative Complications and Mortality After Non-Cardiac Surgery: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Zhang Xiaoying , Hou Aisheng , Cao Jiangbei , Liu Yanhong , Lou Jingsheng , Li Hao , Ma Yulong , Song Yuxiang , Mi Weidong , Liu Jing
Published: June 2022

Background

Although a variety of data showing that diabetes mellitus (DM) (Type 1 or Type 2) is associated with postoperative complication, there is still a lack of detailed studies that go through the specific diabetic subgroups. The goal of this meta-analysis is to assess the relationship between DM and various complications after non-cardiac surgery.

Methods

We searched articles published in three mainstream electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of science) before November, 2020. A random effects model was conducted since heterogeneity always exist when comparing results between different types of surgery.

Results

This paper included 125 studies with a total sample size of 3,208,776 participants. DM was a risk factor for any postoperative complication (Odds ratio (OR)=1.653 [1.487, 1.839]). The risk of insulin-dependent DM (OR=1.895 [1.331, 2.698]) was higher than that of non-insulin-dependent DM (OR=1.554 [1.061, 2.277]) for any postoperative complication. DM had a higher risk of infections (OR=1.537 [1.322, 1.787]), wound healing disorders (OR=2.010 [1.326, 3.046]), hematoma (OR=1.369 [1.120, 1.673]), renal insufficiency (OR=1.987 [1.311, 3.013]), myocardial infarction (OR=1.372 [0.574, 3.278]). Meanwhile, DM was a risk factor for postoperative reoperation (OR=1.568 [1.124, 2.188]), readmission (OR=1.404 [1.274, 1.548]) and death (OR=1.606 [1.178, 2.191]).

Conclusions

DM is a risk factor for any postoperative complications, hospitalization and death after non-cardiac surgery. These findings underscore the importance of preoperative risk factor assessment of DM for the safe outcome of surgical patients.
Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine Mediates the Development and Progression of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Luo Liying , Sun Xi , Tang Min , Wu Jiahui , Qian Tianwei , Chen Shimei , Guan Zhiyuan , Jiang Yanyun , Fu Yang , Zheng Zhi
Published: June 2022

Backgrounds

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most severe microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus (DM). Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) has been found to play an important role in many diseases, but its role and mechanism in DR remain unknown.

Methods

We studied the role of SPARC and integrin β1 in vascular pathophysiology and identified potential therapeutic translation. The SPARC levels were tested in human serum and vitreous by ELISA assay, and then the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset was used to understand the key role of the target gene in DR. In human retinal capillary endothelial cells (HRCECs), we analyzed the mRNA and protein level by RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting. The cell apoptosis, cell viability, and angiogenesis were analyzed by flow cytometry, CCK-8, and tube formation.

Results

In this study, we investigated the role of SPARC in the development and progression of human DR and high glucose-induced HRCEC cells and found that the SPARC-ITGB1 signaling pathway mimics early molecular and advanced neurovascular pathophysiology complications of DR. The result revealed that DR patients have a high-level SPARC expression in serum and vitreous. Knockdown of SPARC could decrease the expressions of inflammatory factors and VEGFR, inhibit cell apoptosis and angiogenesis, and increase cell viability by regulating integrin β1 in HRCECs.

Conclusion

SPARC promotes diabetic retinopathy via the regulation of integrin β1. The results of this study can provide a potential therapeutic application for the treatment of DR.
Potential Impact of Body Mass Index on the Clinical Outcome of Papillary Thyroid Cancer After High-Dose Radioactive Iodine Therapy
Authors: Cao Jingjia , Zhu Xiaolu , Sun Yaru , Li Xiao , Yun Canhua , Zhang Wei
Published: June 2022

Context

Obesity has been reported as a potential risk factor for the aggressiveness of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), but the data gathered so far are conflicting.

Objective

The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and aggressiveness of PTC at the diagnosis and clinical outcome.

Methods

A total of 337 patients who underwent radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy between March 2017 and May 2020 were recruited. Patients were divided into four groups: underweight (BMI<18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (18.5-24.9 kg/m2), overweight (25-29.9 kg/m2), and obese (BMI≥ 30 kg/m2). Treatment and follow-up were defined according to criteria used in the 2015 ATA guidelines.

Results

This study included 337 patients with PTC (71.5% women, median age 45.21 ± 13.04 years). The mean BMI was 24.2 ± 3.1 kg/m2. Obese groups had a higher age than the other groups (P = 0.001). Moreover, obese patients had larger tumor sizes and higher T stage, compared to overweight, normal weight, and underweight patients (P = 0.007). After a median follow-up of 32 months, 279 patients (82.7%) had achieved an excellent response (ER) to therapy. The overall ER rates were compared between groups, and they did not differ significantly.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that BMI may have an additive effect on the aggressiveness of PTC, but did not have an effect on the response to therapy after high-dose RAI therapy.
Comparison of Nonalbuminuric and Albuminuric Diabetic Kidney Disease Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shi Shaomin , Ni Lihua , Gao Ling , Wu Xiaoyan
Published: June 2022

Background

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of most common complications of diabetes. Recently, the classical phenotype of DKD, which is characterized by albuminuria preceding renal insufficiency, has been challenged since a subset of diabetic patients with renal insufficiency but without albuminuria has been increasingly reported. However, the available evidence is inconsistent. Thus, the present systematic review will assess and summarize the available data regarding nonalbuminuric diabetic kidney disease (NADKD).

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane were searched for clinical trials related to NADKD. The results were limited to full-text articles published in English, without restrictions on the publication time. The quality of clinical trials was appraised, and the data were extracted. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model. Descriptive analysis was performed if the data were insufficient.

Results

A final total of 31 articles were included in this review. The meta-analysis of 18 studies showed that compared with albuminuric DKD, patients with NADKD were older (MD = 1.04 years old, 95% CI [0.52, 1.57], p < 0.05); were more often women (Male RR = 0.74, 95% CI [0.68, 0.81], p < 0.05); had shorter diabetes duration (MD = −2.9 years, 95% CI [−3.63, −2.18], p < 0.05), lower HbA1c levels (MD = −0.34%, 95% CI [−0.42, −0.25], p < 0.05), and lower blood pressure (systolic blood pressure MD = −6.21 mmHg, 95% CI [−9.41, −3.0], p < 0.05; diastolic blood pressure MD = −1.27 mmHg, 95% CI [−2.15, 4.0], p < 0.05); less frequently experienced diabetic retinopathy (RR = 0.58, 95% CI [0.51, 0.67], p < 0.05); and less frequently used renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors. The underlying pathology of NADKD might be different from that of the classic phenotype of DKD, which is associated with more advanced tubulointerstitial and vascular lesions but mild typical glomerular lesions. The annual estimated glomerular filtration rate decline tended to be lower in patients with NADKD than in those with albuminuric DKD. The risk for cardiovascular disease, end-stage renal disease, and all-cause death was lower for patients with NADKD than patients with albuminuric DKD.

Conclusions

The prevalence of NADKD has increased in recent decades, and its characteristics, pathology, and prognosis are different from those of albuminuric DKD; thus, diagnosis and treatment strategies should be different. More attention should be given to this phenotype.
Effect of Glomerular Filtration Rate by Different Equations on Prediction Models for End-Stage Renal Disease in Diabetes
Authors: Lv Liangjing , Chen Xiangjun , Hu Jinbo , Wu Jinshan , Luo Wenjin , Shen Yan , Lan Rui , Li Xue , Wang Yue , Luo Ting , Yang Shumin , Li Qifu , Wang Zhihong
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives

The study aimed to evaluate the performance of a predictive model using the kidney failure risk equation (KFRE) for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in diabetes and to investigate the impact of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as estimated by different equations on the performance of the KFRE model in diabetes.

Design, Setting, Participants, and Measurements

A total of 18,928 individuals with diabetes without ESRD history from the UK Biobank, a prospective cohort study initiated in 2006–2010, were included in this study. Modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD), chronic kidney disease epidemiology collaboration (CKD-EPI) or revised Lund–Malmö (r-LM) were used to estimate GFR in the KFRE model. Cox proportional risk regression was used to determine the correlation coefficients between each variable and ESRD risk in each model. Harrell’s C-index and net reclassification improvement (NRI) index were used to evaluate the differentiation of the models. Analysis was repeated in subgroups based on albuminuria and hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) levels.

Results

Overall, 132 of the 18,928 patients developed ESRD after a median follow-up of 12 years. The Harrell’s C-index based on GFR estimated by CKD-EPI, MDRD, and r-LM was 0.914 (95% CI = 0.8812–0.9459), 0.908 (95% CI = 0.8727–0.9423), and 0.917 (95% CI = 0.8837–0.9496), respectively. Subgroup analysis revealed that in diabetic patients with macroalbuminuria, the KFRE model based on GFR estimated by r-LM (KFRE-eGFRr-LM) had better differentiation compared to the KFRE model based on GFR estimated by CKD-EPI (KFRE-eGFRCKD-EPI) with a KFRE-eGFRr-LM C-index of 0.846 (95% CI = 0.797–0.894, p = 0.025), while the KFRE model based on GFR estimated by MDRD (KFRE-eGFRMDRD) showed no significant difference compared to the KFRE-eGFRCKD-EPI (KFRE-eGFRMDRD C-index of 0.837, 95% CI = 0.785–0.889, p = 0.765). Subgroup analysis of poor glycemic control (HbA1c >8.5%) demonstrated the same trend. Compared to KFRE-eGFRCKD-EPI (C-index = 0.925, 95% CI = 0.874–0.976), KFRE-eGFRr-LM had a C-index of 0.935 (95% CI = 0.888–0.982, p = 0.071), and KFRE-eGFRMDRD had a C-index of 0.925 (95% CI = 0.874–0.976, p = 0.498).

Conclusions

In adults with diabetes, the r-LM equation performs better than the CKD-EPI and MDRD equations in the KFRE model for predicting ESRD, especially for those with macroalbuminuria and poor glycemic control (HbA1c >8.5%).
Associations Between Body Composition, Leptin, and Vitamin D Varied by the Body Fat Percentage in Adolescents
Authors: Khwanchuea Rapheeporn , Punsawad Chuchard
Published: June 2022

Background

Serum leptin levels reflects one’s degree of obesity and can affect vitamin D levels. The relationship between body fat, leptin, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) has not been extensively studied in adolescents. This study aimed to investigate the correlations between body composition and leptin and 25(OH)D levels in boys and girls.

Methods

Participants aged 12–14 years (n = 205) were grouped according to sex. After body composition was recorded using bioelectrical impedance analysis, they were classified into three groups according to body fat percentage (%BF) (< 30, ≥ 30 and < 40, and ≥ 40). Serum leptin and 25(OH)D levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Correlations between all variables were analyzed according to sex and the percentage of BF groups.

Results

Boys and girls with %BF ≥ 30 showed no difference in body mass index (BMI), %BF, and leptin and 25(OH)D, while other variables of body composition were more common in boys than in girls. The %BF, body fat mass (BFM), and 25(OH)D of both sexes with %BF ≥ 30, and leptin levels of boys with %BF ≥ 40 increased with an increase in %BF. A negative correlation between leptin and 25(OH)D levels was found in boys with %BF < 40 and girls with %BF < 30. In the %BF ≥ 30 and < 40 groups, there were negative correlations between leptin, BFM, free fat mass, and muscle mass (MM); between leptin, 25(OH)D, and height in boys; and between 25(OH)D, body weight, BMI, and MM in girls.

Conclusion

A negative correlation between leptin and 25(OH)D levels varied according to sex, while for body composition, it was evident at 30 and 40% BF.
Hormonal Male Contraception: Getting to Market
Authors: Page Stephanie T. , Blithe Diana , Wang Christina
Published: June 2022

Rates of unplanned pregnancies are high and stagnant globally, burdening women, families and the environment. Local limitations placed upon contraceptive access and abortion services exacerbate global disparities for women. Despite survey data suggesting men and their partners are eager for expanded male contraceptive options, efforts to develop such agents have been stymied by a paucity of monetary investment. Modern male hormonal contraception, like female hormonal methods, relies upon exogenous progestins to suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, in turn suppressing testicular testosterone production and sperm maturation. Addition of an androgen augments gonadotropin suppression, more effectively suppressing spermatogenesis in men, and provides androgenic support for male physiology. Previous contraceptive efficacy studies in couples have shown that hormonal male methods are effective and reversible. Recent efforts have been directed at addressing potential user and regulatory concerns by utilizing novel steroids and varied routes of hormone delivery. Provision of effective contraceptive options for men and women is an urgent public health need. Recognizing and addressing the gaps in our contraceptive options and engaging men in family planning will help reduce rates of unplanned pregnancies in the coming decades.
Research on China’s New Energy Cross-Provincial Marketization Mechanism Under the Background of “Double Carbon”
Authors: Zhou Qiang , Li Jin , Lv Qingquan , Wang Dingmei , Yang Shiyou
Published: June 2022

In the past decade, China’s new energy has experienced a prosperous development and has become an important main power supply in China. With the promotion of China’s power market–oriented reform, the market-oriented transaction mechanism will play an essential role for China to achieve a large-scale and efficient national allocation of new energy. This study systematically analyzes and designs the principle of China’s new energy cross-provincial marketization mechanism, including those for a compound system such as an interprovincial medium and long-term transaction and spot transaction. The proposed mechanism is validated by its implemental results on a prototype power system with new energy.
Describing Function Analysis of Sustained Oscillations in Grid-Tied Voltage-Source Converter With Double Saturation Limiters
Authors: Huang Yifan , Ma Rui , Zhan Meng , Cao Kan , Ye Chang
Published: June 2022

Recently, with the fast development of renewable energy, various power-electronic-based devices have been widely incorporated in power systems, and controller saturation limiters have been broadly utilized, such as in voltage-source converter. It has been well recognized that these saturation limiters make sustained oscillations possible. To study the impact of saturation limiters, by considering the dynamical response of double saturation limiters in both the d-axis and q-axis of the alternating current control, this paper establishes single-input-single-output models for two novel phenomena including the double-clipped oscillation and single-clipped oscillation, based on the describing function. Then the describing-function-based Nyquist criterion is used to obtain the amplitude and frequency of the sustained oscillations. The model accuracy is verified by the electromagnetic transient simulation, and the influences of control parameters are extensively studied. All these findings clearly demonstrate that the saturation limiters play an active role in sustained oscillations in power-electronic-based power systems.
Environmental Information Disclosure, Fiscal Decentralization, and Exports: Evidence From China
Authors: Fang Ziwei , Li Zhaohua , Tao Shuang
Published: June 2022

We take the “Environmental Information Disclosure Measures (Trial)” implemented in China as a quasi-natural experiment and use the difference-in-difference (DID) method to identify the impact of environmental information disclosure (EID) on local exports. Additionally, we further investigate the impact of fiscal decentralization on local governments’ performance of this centrally mandated environmental information disclosure policy. Our results suggest that EID significantly hinders local exports, and such an inhibition effect exhibits obvious regional and stringency heterogeneity. Furthermore, the degree of fiscal decentralization is positively related to the enthusiasm of local governments in implementing the EID policy, thus strengthening EID’s inhibitory impact on local exports. As for the mechanisms behind, we verify that EID activates the “cost effect” and increases the cost of local pollution control. However, it cannot stimulate local innovation at the same time, and the “innovation effect” does not work, which ultimately results in a decrease in local exports; for cities with a high degree of fiscal decentralization, local governments tend to actively implement the centrally-mandated environmental protection policy by increasing investments in environmental pollution control and stimulating the innovation vitality of local enterprises. But the benefits from the innovation improvement cannot fully offset the negative impact of the increase in environmental costs in the short term, and local exports are further reduced.
Does Geographical Indication Certification Increase the Technical Complexity of Export Agricultural Products?
Authors: Xu Zhiyuan , Feng Yang , Wei Hua
Published: June 2022

As a special intellectual property right, geographical indications have obvious regional quality signals and reputation. Whether geographical indication certification can promote the technical complexity of export agricultural products in the process of high-quality agricultural transformation in developing countries is a new issue that has to be studied urgently. Therefore, based on the provincial panel data from 2005 to 2019, this research examines the impact of geographical indication certification on the technical complexity of China’s export agricultural products. The empirical results reveal that geographic indication certification can significantly improve the technical complexity of export agricultural products. Moreover, the positive spillover effect of geographical indications on the export of agricultural products is strengthened as the level of the technical complexity of products increases. However, the regression coefficient at the 85% quantile decreases, reflecting that the current international recognition of geographical indication certification in China needs improvement. The heterogeneity study finds that the above results are not significantly supported by evidence in the central region. Thus, the quality guidance role of geographical indication products in the central region has not been brought into full play, thereby restraining the price addition ability of export agricultural products. Therefore, the government should increase policy support to enhance the quality guidance role of geographical indication products.
Spatial Pattern of Rural Ecological Land and Its Multidimensional Gradient Differentiation in a Loess Hilly Region: A Case Study of Longxi County, Gansu Province, China
Authors: Ma Libang , Yao Yao , Tao Tianmin , Zong Yanling
Published: June 2022

Studying the gradient differentiation of rural ecological land (REL) from a microscopic perspective is conducive to the pattern optimization, scientific control, and protection of REL. This has far-reaching significance for the improvement of village appearance and the delineation of an ecological safety network. Taking Longxi County as an example, this research studied the spatial pattern of REL based on the landscape pattern index and analyzed the multi-dimensional gradient spatial differentiation characteristics of REL. Therefore, we can clarify the impact of natural and human factors on EL under different gradients. The results show 1) the rural ecological background conditions of Longxi County are good, and the area of ecological land (EL) accounts for 90.45% of the total area of the county; 2) there are significant differences between the spatial feature index and spatial pattern of REL in Longxi County. Its diversity, dominance, and shape index were mainly at low and medium levels. The degrees of fragmentation were mainly at low and high levels; and 3) the REL in Longxi County has different evolution laws in different gradients.
Link Between Aeration in the Rhizosphere and P-Acquisition Strategies: Constructing Efficient Vegetable Root Morphology
Authors: Wang Rui , Shi Weiming , Li Yilin
Published: June 2022

Excessive application of phosphate fertilizer is common in vegetable fields and causes deterioration of the rhizosphere environment, that is, the soil oxygen (O2) environment, which further constrains root morphology construction and limits vegetable yield. Nevertheless, the interaction between root morphology and the response of the rhizosphere O2 environment to vegetable P utilization has rarely been reported. Therefore, we carried out an experiment applying different concentrations of O2 generator, 10%, 30%, 50%, and 80% urea hydrogen peroxide (as pure nitrogen) instead of urea as a top dressing in the rhizosphere, to study the effect on root morphology and P adsorption, and its mechanism. We found that there were O2-deficient and P-deficient zones in the rhizosphere, and oxygenation could alleviate the rhizosphere O2 and P consumption in roots. The rhizosphere O2 concentration was maintained at approximately 250.6 μmol L−1, which significantly promoted total root length, root volume, average diameter, and root activity by 29.0%, 30.9%, 3.9%, and 111.2%, respectively. Oxygenation promoted organic P mineralization and increased the Olsen-P content in the rhizosphere. The characteristics of root morphology and increased available P in the rhizosphere jointly contributed to high P absorption and utilization, and the P use efficiency was improved by 9.3% and the shoot P accumulation by 10.9% in the 30% urea hydrogen peroxide treatment compared with CK. Moreover, this treatment also improved yield and quality, including vitamin C and the soluble sugar content. However, at a still higher O2 concentration (260.8 μmol L−1), vegetable growth exhibited O2 damage, resulting in reduced yield and quality. Our study provided new insights into constructing efficient root morphology by regulating the rhizosphere O2 environment to improve vegetable yield and quality, as well as to increase P use efficiency in vegetable fields.
How Green is the Economic Complexity in the Central and Eastern European Union Countries?
Authors: Neagu Olimpia , Neagu Mădălin-Ioan , Gavurova Beata
Published: June 2022

The paper analyses the association between economic complexity and openness to trade green products in eleven Central and Eastern European Union (EU) countries over the period of 2003–2016. The study uses the “green openness index” as it is framed by the Beta Akademi Social Science Lab in order to explain the progress in the productive structure of the European economies. In a panel data approach comprising of eleven EU economies, other explanatory variables of economic complexity are included: financial development, research and development (R&D) expenditures, and number of patents. The methodological approach includes: testing cross-sectional dependence of considered variable and second generation test for stationarity check. Cointegration on long run is verified by Westerlund test and estimation of regression coefficients uses FMOLS and DOLS models. Finally the causality relationship between economic complexity and explanatory variables is tested with Dumitrescu-Hurlin test. Empirical results show that Economic Complexity Index (ECI) is positively associated with green openness index (GOP), financial development, R&D expenditures and number of patents in the examined panel of countries. A validated causality relationship is running from green trade to economic complexity and from economic complexity to financial development and number of patents. It is also revealed validated bidirectional causality between R&D expenditures and ECI. Policy implications are also provided.
Life in 2.5D: Animal Movement in the Trees
Authors: Harel Roi , Alavi Shauhin , Ashbury Alison M. , Aurisano Jillian , Berger-Wolf Tanya , Davis Grace H. , Hirsch Ben T. , Kalbitzer Urs , Kays Roland , Mclean Kevin , Núñez Chase L. , Vining Alexander , Walton Zea , Havmøller Rasmus Worsøe , Crofoot Margaret C.
Published: June 2022

The complex, interconnected, and non-contiguous nature of canopy environments present unique cognitive, locomotor, and sensory challenges to their animal inhabitants. Animal movement through forest canopies is constrained; unlike most aquatic or aerial habitats, the three-dimensional space of a forest canopy is not fully realized or available to the animals within it. Determining how the unique constraints of arboreal habitats shape the ecology and evolution of canopy-dwelling animals is key to fully understanding forest ecosystems. With emerging technologies, there is now the opportunity to quantify and map tree connectivity, and to embed the fine-scale horizontal and vertical position of moving animals into these networks of branching pathways. Integrating detailed multi-dimensional habitat structure and animal movement data will enable us to see the world from the perspective of an arboreal animal. This synthesis will shed light on fundamental aspects of arboreal animals’ cognition and ecology, including how they navigate landscapes of risk and reward and weigh energetic trade-offs, as well as how their environment shapes their spatial cognition and their social dynamics.
Foraging Payoffs Change With Group Size in Kin and Non-kin Groups of an Argyrodinae Kleptoparasitic Spider, Argyrodes miniaceus
Authors: Yu Chia-Ning , Kuo Chi-Yun , Lin Hsing-Chieh , Su Yong-Chao
Published: June 2022

Evolutionary transitions from solitary to group-living are ubiquitous in animal systems. While the fitness consequences of group size changes are often investigated, the long-standing debate on whether kinship is a prerequisite of sociality is still ongoing. In the current study, we used kleptoparasitic spiders Argyrodes miniaceus (subfamily Argyrodinae, Theridiidae) as a model system to assess the role of group size on the foraging payoffs of kin and non-kin groups. We set up laboratory-manipulated kin and non-kin foraging groups and used feeding occurrence and duration as proxies for foraging benefits and feeding latency and the number of host attacks as estimates of foraging costs. Compared to solitary individuals, feeding durations of successfully fed individuals in groups was not significantly different from that of solitary foragers in both kin and non-kin groups. The occurrences of feeding decreased significantly in group sizes two and above, in non-kin groups, and in group sizes three and above, in kin groups. In kin groups, groups size two had significantly shorter feeding latencies compared to other group sizes, even though feeding duration did not change systematically with group size. Similarly, the number of attacks from the hosts were highest in non-kin groups with more than two individuals and in kin groups with more than three individuals. The juxtaposition of kin and non-kin group showed that A. miniaceus enjoyed the highest foraging payoffs when being solitary or in small groups (group size two). However, host attacks appeared to hamper feeding occurrences in kin groups, which was not observed in non-kin groups. Our results contrast sharply with the feeding benefits of kinship recorded in kin-based groups of sub-social species present in related subfamilies in the Theridiidae.
Identifying Environmental Factors Limiting Recovery of an Imperiled Estuarine Fish
Authors: Hamilton Scott A. , Murphy Dennis D.
Published: June 2022

Correctly identifying the environmental factors that limit population growth and recovery of imperiled species is an essential element of any targeted conservation program. Abundance index values for delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus), an imperiled fish in the upper San Francisco Estuary, have exhibited substantial inter-annual variation and the population is now at historically low numbers. Drawing from conceptual ecological models, we developed and applied a new multivariate analytical technique that incorporates a fundamental characteristic of limiting environmental factors– recognition that certain factors influence abundance in certain seasons or years, but they may have no influence on the species’ performance at other times. We observe that delta smelt occasionally experience years with population size increases, despite their ongoing long-term downward trajectory in numbers. The differences in environmental conditions that occur in years that prompt different population responses can provide insight into the environmental factors that limit species recovery. Nine temporally and spatially explicit covariates emerged from analyses that explain changes in inter-annual delta smelt abundance indices. We contrast those environmental factors with the factors that influence occupancy because distinguishing and focusing conservation actions on factors affecting delta smelt performance, rather than occupancy, should lead to the implementation of management and habitat-restoration actions that are more likely to benefit the fish. We think that the approach taken in this study can be a model for other species where salient data are limited and information needs are pressing.