bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Hepatitis C Virus Genotypes on Oxidative Stress Markers and Catalase Activity
Authors: Đorđević Vukica , Stanković Đorđević Dobrila , Kocić Branislava , Dinić Marina , Sokolović Danka , Pešić Stanković Jana
Published: February 2021

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of liver disease worldwide. Chronic HCV infections are usually associated with increased oxidative stress in the liver tissue. The intensity of oxidative stress may be a detrimental factor in liver injury and may determine the severity of the disease. The aim of the present case‐control study was to determine the level of lipid peroxidation (TBARS), protein oxidative modification (AOPP), and catalase activity in sera of patients infected with HCV, in relation to different HCV genotypes and viral load. Considering the HCV patients with chronic hepatitis C (52) and control subject (50) recruitment, the study was designed as a case–control‐type. The HCV RNA isolation, viral load, and HCV genotyping were performed according to the standard protocols. A significant difference compared to control healthy subjects was reported for TBAR (p < 0.001), AOPP (p = 0.001), and catalase activity (p = 0.007). In a gender‐based comparison, a significantly higher level of AOPP for females was reported (p < 0.001). As stratified by HCV genotype, the most common was HCV‐1 (HCV‐1a and HCV 1b), with the overall participation of more than 60%, followed by genotype 3, while the least represented was genotype 2. No significant difference was documented among genotypes in regard to oxidative stress markers, although somewhat higher TBARS level, but not significant, was registered in patients infected with genotype 1b. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the concentration of HCV genome copies and AOPP (r = 0.344; p = 0.012). A high level of HCV viral load was more likely to have a higher TBARS, but still without statistical significance (p = 0.072). In conclusion, the results obtained confirmed an imbalance between the ROS production and antioxidative defense system in HCV‐infected patients. Since oxidative stress may have a profound influence on disease progression, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis, our results may meet the aspirations of mandatory introduction of antioxidants as early HCV therapy to counteract ROS consequences.
An Empirical Study on Optimal the Allocations in Advertising and Operation Innovation on Supply Chain Alliance for Complex Data Analysis
Authors: Wang Jiang-Tao , Yu Jian-Jun , Yuan Yu-Hsi , Tsai Sang-Bing , Zhang Shu-Fen
Published: February 2021

Effective and efficient closed‐loop supply chain processes can provide a significant competitive edge for companies. This study considered three investment strategies in the process of initiating closed‐loop supply chain alliances. The results showed that a promised proportion has a significant effect on investment decisions under a pure investment strategy. Furthermore, a reasonable promised proportion can coordinate the supply chain under a pure innovation strategy but cannot in a pure advertising strategy. Upstream (i.e., innovation) investments decrease wholesale and retail prices, while downstream ones increase retail and wholesale prices. Increasing innovation investment can transform benefits to the downstream, while increasing advertising investment may cause opportunism. A hybrid investment strategy balances upstream and downstream investment simultaneously and provides insights into optimizing the supply chain system in investments.
A Two‐Level Communication Routing Algorithm Based on Vehicle Attribute Information for Vehicular Ad Hoc Network
Authors: He Chenguang , Qu Guanqiao , Ye Liang , Wei Shouming
Published: February 2021

Recently, the research on the vehicular ad hoc network (VANET) has been paid more attention by researchers with the quick development of the autonomous driving technology. In the VANET, vehicles can communicate with everything through the route established by routing algorithms. However, the topology of the VANET changes fast because the vehicles move fast. Also, as the number of vehicles increases, the probability of data collision and the transmission latency will also increase when communicating. Therefore, the VANET needs a stable, low‐latency, and efficient route for vehicles to communicate with each other. However, the existing routing algorithms are either unable to aggregate data or are not suitable for the large‐size VANET. In this paper, we consider the vehicle attribute information comprehensively and cluster the vehicles on the road by using the cluster algorithm we propose. We dynamically select the cluster heads at each moment according to their attribute information. We consider all kinds of nodes in the network and the vehicle nodes will communicate with each other through the cluster heads under the two‐level communicating algorithm we propose. Compared with the existing cluster routing algorithm, the algorithm we propose is much more suitable for the large‐size VANET because the cluster heads do not need a gateway to help them communicate. In the simulation part, we set some real street scenes in Simulation of Urban Mobility (SUMO) and the vehicles can move by the traffic rules like in the real world, which is more suitable for the VANET. After analysing the communication performance in Network Simulator version 2 (NS2), we can get a conclusion that the algorithm proposed is superior to the traditional routing algorithm. The route established by the algorithm we propose is much more stable and efficient. And the latency is also lower than the former.
A New Maintenance Optimization Model Based on Three‐Stage Time Delay for Series Intelligent System with Intermediate Buffer
Authors: Lv Xiaolei , Liu Qinming , Li Zhinan , Dong Yifan , Xia Tangbin , Chen Xiang
Published: February 2021

For the maintenance problem of intelligent series system with buffer stock, a preventive maintenance model based on the threestage time delay theory is proposed. Firstly, the intelligent series system is decomposed into n − 1 virtual series systems by using approximate decomposition method. The impact factor is introduced to establish the failure rate and maintenance rate model of each virtual machine. Secondly, a preventive maintenance model based on the three‐stage time delay theory is proposed for each virtual series system. The machine state from normal operation to failure stage is divided into three steps: initial defect, serious defect, and fault, and different distribution functions are defined in different stages to simulate the degradation process of the machine. Based on the three‐stage time delay theory, the machine cost ratio model was established by taking the machine monitoring time and buffer stock as decision variables and the minimum unit time cost rate as objective function. Finally, the rationality and validity of the model are verified by an example analysis, which provides a basis for the maintenance of the intelligent series system.
Modification of Peck Formula to Predict Ground Surface Settlement of Twin Tunnels in Low Permeability Soil
Authors: Tang Xiaowu , Liang Jiaxin , Liu Wei , Ye Yuhang , Gan Penglu , Zhao Wenfang , Yu Yue
Published: February 2021

Accurate prediction of surface settlement induced by tunnel excavation is significant for preventing damage to existing structures under complex geological conditions. The Peck formula is currently considered as an efficient solution for surface settlement prediction. This paper proposes a modified Peck formula considering geological conditions to improve the accuracy of surface settlement prediction of twin tunnels. The asynchronization of the sinking rate and stability of the vault settlement and surface settlement within the river‐affected area may attribute to the groundwater drawdown caused by cofferdam construction on the river. A modified Peck formula is put forward with soil permeability and width‐controlling parameters involved. There is a small settlement at the center of the twin tunnels, making the settlement trough upward buckling, which is like a “W” shape. This situation can be accurately predicted by the modified formula with a significantly increased adjusted R‐square. The modified formula can accurately predict the surface settlement of tunnels excavated in low permeability soil layers with a permeability coefficient between 10−4 cm/s and 10−7 cm/s, especially in the groundwater drawdown environment. The reliability of the modified Peck formula is verified by other cases in Nanjing and Singapore.
Numerical Simulation on the Whole Sinking Process of Open Caisson with an Improved SPH Method
Authors: Zhang Jiahe
Published: February 2021

The phenomena of dynamic change in the material interfaces and mechanical properties are often involved in the caisson construction. Using conventional methods to simulate these phenomena is quite difficult due to the extremely large deformation. In this study, we proposed an improved soil-water-caisson interaction algorithm with the method of smoothed-particle hydrodynamics (SPH). This algorithm dealt with the support domain truncation of the particles near the blade and applied

δ
−
SPH

to avoid the pressure fluctuation. Meanwhile, the application of dynamic particles birth and death method could simulate the whole sinking process of an open caisson with underwater soil excavation. According to the comparison between SPH simulation and centrifuge test, the distribution of sidewall effective soil pressure was consistent, which indicated promising applicability of the algorithm. It should be noted that the considerable excess pore water pressure appeared in the surrounding soil under the blade. With the dissipation of the pressure over time, the effective soil stress increased correspondingly, and it would lead to the increasing difficulty of the sinking process. Therefore, the caisson should be avoided to stop for a long time during the sinking process or it would cause the stagnation of sinking. This algorithm could simulate engineering problems involving underwater construction effectively and provide theoretical and technical support for underwater excavation, shield tunneling, and other engineering problems.
A Novel Shock Absorber with the Preload and Global Negative Stiffness for Effective Shock Isolation
Authors: Zeng Zecui , Zhang Lei , Yan Ming
Published: February 2021

A novel shock absorber with the preload structure and global negative stiffness is proposed for the shock isolation of sensitive systems. The novel shock absorber is composed of a linear spring and permanent magnet sets. The preload force and negative stiffness region are related to the attractive force between permanent magnet sets. The aim of this paper is to investigate the shock isolation performance of the novel shock absorber. Firstly, a static analysis of the novel shock absorber is carried out. Secondly, the motion stability of the NSA is analyzed by the Jacobian Matrix and the shock response is calculated numerically compared with the conventional preload structures. Finally, the shock test of the novel shock absorber is completed to verify the above results. It is found that the novel shock absorber could be advantageous in improving shock isolation in terms of relative displacement and absolute acceleration compared with conventional preload structures.
LLAD: Life-Log Anomaly Detection Based on Recurrent Neural Network LSTM
Authors: Elbasani Ermal , Kim Jeong-Dong
Published: February 2021

Life-Log is a term used for the daily monitoring of health conditions and recognizing anomalies from data generated by sensor devices. The development of smart sensors enables collection of health data, which can be considered as a solution to risks associated with personal healthcare by raising awareness regarding health conditions and wellness. Therefore, Life-Log analysis methods are important for real-life monitoring and anomaly detection. This study proposes a method for the improvement and combination of previous methods and techniques in similar fields to detect anomalies in health log data generated by various sensors. Recurrent neural networks with long short-term memory units are used for analyzing the Life-Log data. The results indicate that the proposed model performs more effectively than conventional health data analysis methods, and the proposed approach can yield a satisfactory accuracy in anomaly detection.
A Pneumonia Diagnosis Scheme Based on Hybrid Features Extracted from Chest Radiographs Using an Ensemble Learning Algorithm
Authors: Masud Mehedi , Bairagi Anupam Kumar , Nahid Abdullah-Al , Sikder Niloy , Rubaiee Saeed , Ahmed Anas , Anand Divya
Published: February 2021

Pneumonia is a fatal disease responsible for almost one in five child deaths worldwide. Many developing countries have high mortality rates due to pneumonia because of the unavailability of proper and timely diagnostic measures. Using machine learning-based diagnosis methods can help to detect the disease early and in less time and cost. In this study, we proposed a novel method to determine the presence of pneumonia and identify its type (bacterial or viral) through analyzing chest radiographs. We performed a three-class classification based on features containing diverse information of the samples. After using an augmentation technique to balance the dataset’s sample sizes, we extracted the chest X-ray images’ statistical features, as well as global features by employing a deep learning architecture. We then combined both sets of features and performed the final classification using the RandomForest classifier. A feature selection method was also incorporated to identify the features with the highest relevance. We tested the proposed method on a widely used (but relabeled) chest radiograph dataset to evaluate its performance. The proposed model can classify the dataset’s samples with an 86.30% classification accuracy and 86.03% F-score, which assert the model’s efficacy and reliability. However, results show that the classifier struggles while distinguishing between viral and bacterial pneumonia samples. Implementing this method will provide a fast and automatic way to detect pneumonia in a patient and identify its type.
Trade Credit and Revenue Sharing of Supply Chain with a Risk-Averse Retailer
Authors: Liu Caiyun , Chen Kebing , Li Mingxia , Zhou Haijie
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we develop three supply chain game models, i.e., the basic model, the single trade credit model, and the trade credit and revenue sharing collaboration model. Conditional value-at-risk (CVaR) criterion is used as the measure of risk assessment in these models. We analyze the optimal decisions in the centralized and decentralized situations, respectively, and verify that single trade credit cannot coordinate the supply chain. However, the collaboration contract can coordinate the supply chain. Furthermore, this paper explores the influence of risk-aversion factor, trade credit period, revenue sharing coefficient, and other parameters on the optimal decisions and studies the feasible range of Pareto improvement in the collaborative model. In numerical experiments, the results show that the decisions and profits of both the manufacturer and the retailer reply on the degree of the risk aversion, the trade credit period, and the revenue sharing coefficient. The collaborative contract effectively improves supply chain performance and achieves a ‘win-win’ situation for the supply chain members. In addition, we also consider two extensions for our research. One extension shows that the collaborative contract of trade credit and buyback can also coordinate the supply chain in a certain range. The other extension considers the optimal decision of a risk-averse manufacturer with CVaR.
The Common GermlineTP53-R337HMutation Is Hypomorphic and Confers Incomplete Penetrance and Late Tumor Onset in a Mouse Model
Authors: Jeffers John R. , Pinto Emilia M. , Rehg Jerold E. , Clay Michael R. , Wang Jinling , Neale Geoffrey , Heath Richard J. , Lozano Guillermina , Lalli Enzo , Figueiredo Bonald C. , Pappo Alberto S. , Rodriguez-Galindo Carlos , Chen Wenan , Pounds Stanley , Ribeiro Raul C. , Zambetti Gerard P.
Published: February 2021

The TP53-R337H founder mutation exists at a high frequency throughout southern Brazil and represents one of the most common germline TP53 mutations reported to date. It was identified in pediatric adrenocortical tumors in families with a low incidence of cancer. The R337H mutation has since been found in association with early-onset breast cancers and Li–Fraumeni syndrome (LFS). To study this variability in tumor susceptibility, we generated a knockin mutant p53 mouse model (R334H). Endogenous murine p53-R334H protein was naturally expressed at high levels in multiple tissues and was functionally compromised in a tissue- and stress-specific manner. Mutant p53-R334H mice developed tumors with long latency and incomplete penetrance, consistent with many human carriers being at a low but elevated risk for cancer. These findings suggest the involvement of additional cooperating genetic alterations when TP53-R337H occurs in the context of LFS, which has important implications for genetic counseling and long-term clinical follow-up.

Significance:

A p53-R334H knockin mouse serves as an important model for studying the most common inherited germline TP53 mutation (R337H) that is associated with variable tumor susceptibility.
Longitudinal Immune Profiling Reveals Unique Myeloid and T-cell Phenotypes Associated with Spontaneous Immunoediting in a Prostate Tumor Model
Authors: Ager Casey R. , Obradovic Aleksandar Z. , Arriaga Juan M. , Chaimowitz Matthew G. , Califano Andrea , Abate-Shen Cory , Drake Charles G.
Published: February 2021

The theory of cancer immunoediting, which describes the dynamic interactions between tumors and host immune cells that shape the character of each compartment, is foundational for understanding cancer immunotherapy. Few models exist that facilitate in-depth study of each of the three canonical phases of immunoediting: elimination, equilibrium, and escape. Here, we utilized NPK-C1, a transplantable prostate tumor model that we found recapitulated the three phases of immunoediting spontaneously in immunocompetent animals. Given that a significant portion of NPK-C1 tumors reliably progressed to the escape phase, we were able to delineate cell types and mechanisms differentially prevalent in equilibrium versus escape phases. Using high-dimensional flow cytometry, we found that activated CD4+ effector T cells were enriched in regressing tumors, highlighting a role for CD4+ T cells in antitumor immunity. CD8+ T cells were also important for NPK-C1 control, specifically, central memory–like cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. Regulatory T cells (Treg), as a whole, were counterintuitively enriched in regressing tumors; however, high-dimensional analysis revealed their significant phenotypic diversity, with a number of Treg subpopulations enriched in progressing tumors. In the myeloid compartment, we found that iNOS+ dendritic cell (DC)–like cells are enriched in regressing tumors, whereas CD103+ DCs were associated with late-stage tumor progression. In total, these analyses of the NPK-C1 model provide novel insights into the roles of lymphoid and myeloid populations throughout the cancer immunoediting process and highlight a role for multidimensional, flow-based analyses to more deeply understand immune cell dynamics in the tumor microenvironment.
Vik Muniz: alquimista das imagens
Authors: Geremias Agnaldo Aparecido
Published: February 2021

Este artigo traz uma análise sucinta do processo criativo do artista plástico Vik Muniz. Objetiva-se suscitar reflexões acerca dos significados passíveis de serem apreendidos a partir da observação atenta de suas obras, bem como um diálogo entre elementos de sua trajetória artística e os aspectos teóricos do processo criativo. A ideia é criar uma “fresta” intertextual que estimule a compreensão do tema proposto e a transcendência dos limites da linguagem.
Presságios
Authors: Guedes Ângelo Dimitre Gomes
Published: February 2021

Além do imaginário, artistas buscam inspiração nos sonhos para a construção de narrativas capazes de questionar, qualificar, transformar ou até imaginar outras realidades. O onírico não parece jogar com regras tão definidas e isso abre espaço para múltiplas experimentações de linguagens, signos e direções. Este ensaio visual segue por esta rota: explora a aproximação entre sonhos e a escritura fotográfica para compor e compartilhar uma narrativa onírica.
A report on the moth (Lepidoptera: Heterocera) diversity of Kavvai River basin in Kerala, India
Authors: Alex Chembakassery Jose , Soumya Koladyparambil Chinnan , Sajeev Thavalathadathil Velayudhan
Published: February 2021

In the present paper, we report the presence of 503 species of moths (343 identified to species, 160 identified to genus) that belong to 371 genera under 42 families.  The study was conducted at Kavvai River basin, northern Kerala, India for three years from 2015 to 2017.  Traditional light trapping method was employed to collect the moths during the night.  Among the families reported, Erebidae was the most dominant family followed by Crambidae, Geometridae, Noctuidae, and Pyraliade.  The study highlights the significance of the riverbasin in conserving rich diversity of invertebrates.
Tawny Fish-Owl (Ketupa flavipes Hodgson, 1836): A new record from a sacred grove in Zemithang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Authors: Bhattacharya Malyasri , Adhikari Bhupendra S. , Gopi G.V.
Published: February 2021

Individuals of Tawny Fish-Owl (Ketupa flavipes) were sighted and photographed in a sacred grove in Zemithang, Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh during nine months fieldwork between June 2017 and February 2018. Previous records from ebird have only listed the occurrence of Tawny Fish-Owl from Pakke Tiger Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh. The present sighting is the first photographic evidence from Tawang district in Western Arunachal Pradesh. The record shows the importance of sacred groves in the conservation of wildlife, which is threatened due to an upcoming hydroelectric power project in the area.
Potential remote drug delivery failures due to temperature-dependent viscosity and drug-loss of aqueous and emulsion-based fluids
Authors: Rosenfield Derek Andrew , Acosta Alfred , Trigilio Tavares Denise , Schilbach Pizzutto Cristiane
Published: February 2021

The ability to inject wild animals from a distance using remote drug delivery systems (RDDS) is one of the most effective and humane practices in wildlife management.  Several factors affect the successful administration of drugs using RDDS.  For example, temperature-dependent viscosity change in aqueous (Newtonian) or water-in-oil emulsion (non-Newtonian) fluids, commonly used in tranquilizer and adjuvant-based vaccines, respectively, can potentially result in drug delivery failure.  To better understand impacts due to viscosity changes, we investigated the fluid dynamics and ballistics involved in remote drug delivery.  Our research was divided into two phases: we investigated the viscosimetric physics in the first phase to determine the fluid behavior under different temperature settings, simulating recommended storage temperature (7ºC), plus an ambient temperature (20ºC).  In the second phase of our study, we assessed the drug delivery efficiency by specialized darts, using a precision CO2 projector and a blowgun. Efficiency assessment was done by comparing the original drug volume with the actual volume injected after firing the dart into a fresh pork hide mounted on a ballistic gel.  Before testing, we configured the required minimum impact velocity for our parameters and intramuscular injection (determined as ˃ 40 m/sec).  All executed dart-deployments performed satisfactorily, despite initial concerns of potential incomplete drug delivery, however, noteworthy drug loss was observed (˃10%) associated with drug residues in syringe/dart dead space and within the transfer needle.  This could potentially result in inaccurate dosing depending on the drug used.  Furthermore, the use of a blowgun for remote drug delivery (>3m) is discouraged, especially when using specialized darts, as the required minimum dart velocity for adequate penetration is difficult to reach, in addition to a loss of precision during targeting.
An insight into the butterfly (Lepidoptera) diversity of an urban landscape: Guwahati, Assam, India
Authors: Bohra Sanath Chandra , Purkayastha Jayaditya
Published: February 2021

The paper deals with the butterfly diversity of Guwahati, Assam, India which was the result of a survey conducted from April 2016 to July 2020.  During the study period we recorded 249 species of butterflies belonging to six families namely Papilionidae (24 species), Pieridae (23 species), Lycaenidae (57 species), Riodinidae (two species), Nymphalidae (97 species), and Hesperiidae (46 species).  Twenty-eight species were recorded from commercial areas, 74 species from residential areas, and 248 species from forested areas. Nineteen species were found to be very common, 39 species common, 50 species fairly common, 53 species uncommon, 57 species rare, and 31 species very rare.  Twenty-four species and nine subspecies including Discophora sondiaca, Athyma selenophora, and Athyma kanwa phorkys are legally protected under different schedules as per the Indian Wildlife Protection Act (1972).
New additions to the larval food plants of Sri Lankan butterflies (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea)
Authors: Jayasinghe Himesh Dilruwan , Rajapakshe Sarath Sanjeewa , Ranasinghe Tharindu
Published: February 2021

Larval food plants (LFPs) of Sri Lankan butterflies have been well documented recently with the aid of studies done by numerous researchers.  In this paper, we present further records, 118 LFPs used by 83 butterflies and 145 plant-butterfly combinations.  LFPs of Lethe dynsate and Potanthus pseudomaesa pseudomaesa are reported for the first time in Sri Lanka.  Important observations, possible LFPs and LFP preferences of rare and threatened butterfly species, are discussed.  This information on plant-butterfly interactions will play an important role in conservation management of both plant and butterfly species.
Autonomic Alterations After Pulmonary Vein Isolation in the CIRCA‐DOSE (Cryoballoon vs Irrigated Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation) Study
Authors: Tang Lisa Y. W. , Hawkins Nathaniel M. , Ho Kendall , Tam Roger , Deyell Marc W. , Macle Laurent , Verma Atul , Khairy Paul , Sheldon Robert , Andrade Jason G. ,   CIRCA‐DOSE Study Investigators
Published: February 2021

Background

The natural history of autonomic alterations following catheter ablation of drug‐refractory paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is poorly defined, largely because of the historical reliance on non‐invasive intermittent rhythm monitoring for outcome ascertainment.

Methods and Results

The study included 346 patients with drug‐refractory paroxysmal atrial fibrillation undergoing pulmonary vein isolation using contemporary advanced‐generation ablation technologies. All patients underwent insertion of a Reveal LINQ (Medtronic) implantable cardiac monitor before ablation. The implantable cardiac monitor continuously recorded physical activity, heart rate variability (measured as the SD of the average normal‐to‐normal), daytime heart rate, and nighttime heart rate. Longitudinal autonomic data in the 2‐month period leading up to the date of ablation were compared with the period from 91 to 365 days following ablation. Following ablation there was a significant decrease in SD of the average normal‐to‐normal (mean difference versus baseline of 19.3 ms; range, 12.9–25.7;P<0.0001), and significant increases in daytime and nighttime heart rates (mean difference versus baseline of 9.6 bpm; range, 7.4–11.8;P<0.0001, and 7.4 bpm; range, 5.4–9.3;P<0.0001, respectively). Patients free of arrhythmia recurrence had significantly faster daytime (11±11 versus 8±12 bpm,P=0.001) and nighttime heart rates (8±9 versus 6±8 bpm,P=0.049), but no difference in SD of the average normal‐to‐normal (P=0.09) compared with those with atrial fibrillation recurrence. Ablation technology and cryoablation duration did not influence these autonomic nervous system effects.

Conclusions

Pulmonary vein isolation results in significant sustained changes in the heart rate parameters related to autonomic function. These changes are correlated with procedural outcome and are independent of the ablation technology used.

Registration

URL:https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT01913522.
Cholesterol Efflux and Collateral Circulation in Chronic Total Coronary Occlusion: Effect‐Circ Study
Authors: Lee Seonhwa , Park Jung Mi , Ann Soo‐Jin , Kang Moonjong , Cheon Eun Jeong , An Dan Bi , Choi Yu Ri , Lee Chan Joo , Oh Jaewon , Park Sungha , Kang Seok‐Min , Lee Sang‐Hak
Published: February 2021

Background

The mechanism through which high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) induces cardioprotection is not completely understood. We evaluated the correlation between cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC), a functional parameter of HDL, and coronary collateral circulation (CCC). We additionally investigated whether A1BP (apoA1‐binding protein) concentration correlates with CEC and CCC.

Methods and Results

In this case‐control study, clinical and angiographic data were collected from 226 patients (mean age, 58 years; male, 72%) with chronic total coronary occlusion. CEC was assessed using a radioisotope and J774 cells, and human A1BP concentration was measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Differences between the good and poor CCC groups were compared, and associations between CEC, A1BP, and other variables were evaluated. Predictors of CCC were identified by multivariable logistic regression analysis. The CEC was higher in the good than in the poor CCC group (22.0±4.6% versus 20.2±4.7%;
P
=0.009). In multivariable analyses including age, sex, HDL‐cholesterol levels, age (odds ratio [OR], 0.96;
P
=0.003), and CEC (OR, 1.10;
P
=0.004) were identified as the independent predictors of good CCC. These relationships remained significant after additional adjustment for diabetes mellitus, acute coronary syndrome, and Gensini score. The A1BP levels were not significantly correlated with CCC (300 pg/mL and 283 pg/mL in the good CCC and poor CCC groups, respectively,
P
=0.25) or CEC.

Conclusions

The relationship between higher CEC and good CCC indicates that well‐functioning HDL may contribute to CCC and may be cardioprotective; this suggests that a specific function of HDL can have biological and clinical consequences.
Ontogenetic and seasonal shifts in movement and habitat selection of the alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)
Authors: Hyder Saidee J. , Ennen Joshua R. , Davenport Jon M.
Published: February 2021

We aimed to discern the seasonal movement patterns, home range sizes, and microhabitat associations of subadult Macrochelys temminckii in a West Tennessee population. Because this population was previously monitored (i.e., telemetry and habitat use) as juveniles after the initial release in 2005, studying the movement ecology and habitat use of the same released cohort 12 years later allows for unique comparisons between hatchling and subadult ecology. We used radio telemetry to collect movement and microhabitat data of 16 subadult M. temminckii during one year. Our results suggest that seasonal and ontogenetic variation in movement patterns and habitat selection occur within a cohort of M. temminckii. Compared to juveniles, subadults used deep slough areas with high overstory tree cover and had larger home ranges (100% minimum convex polygons [MCP]). Additionally, as subadults, the mean distance moved (m) varied among seasons and furthest during summer. Subadults used deeper water, with higher temperatures and significantly more tree canopy cover, than random locations. Overall, the home range estimate for subadults (mean MCP ± SE; 1.64 ± 0.57 ha) was greater than for juveniles (0.044 ± 0.021 ha). These home-range estimates and habitat usage patterns were similar to subadults in other studies. The seasonal and ontogenetic variations suggest that habitat heterogeneity is critical to sustain populations of introduced M. temminckii.
In “defense” of Podarcis latastei, an Italian insular endemic species (Squamata: Lacertidae)
Authors: Castiglia Riccardo , Senczuk Gabriele , Böhme Wolfgang , Corti Claudia
Published: February 2021

Based on genetic and morphological evidence, Senczuk et al. (2019) formally raised the Podarcis populations from the Western Pontine Islands, previously classified as several subspecies of P. siculus, to species rank, i.e. Podarcis latastei (Bedriaga, 1879). This taxonomic change was not accepted in the checklist of the European herpetofauna by Speybroeck et al. (2020), recently published on Amphibia-Reptilia. In this note we respond to the reasons given by Speybroeck and colleagues and support the validity of Podarcis latastei as an endemic Italian species.
Autopreening behaviour may convey information about internal social state in Arabian babbler (Turdoides squamiceps) allopreening dyads
Authors: Fulmer Andrew Goldklank , Hauber Mark E.
Published: February 2021

When individuals groom or preen one another (allopreening), vulnerability and physical access allow for information about hierarchy and bonds to be exchanged, in addition to basic health benefits. During these interactions, individuals may also self-direct grooming/preening (autopreening). We investigate autopreening in a cooperatively breeding passerine bird, the Arabian babbler (Turdoides squamiceps) in the specific context of allopreening interactions. Auto- and allogrooming (the mammalian analogue behaviours) may occur in sequence together, with some species socially facilitating allogrooming by autogrooming. We here consider the possibility of similar associations between autopreening and allopreening. Using a two-year database of 35 individuals in 8 social groups, we assessed the social factors that predict the occurrence of autopreening and its timing in the context of allopreening dyad formation. We ask if there is a social dimension to this behaviour, and specifically find evidence that it may represent displacement and/or subordinate behaviour. The relative age of individuals in preening dyads and the behaviour of recipients prior to social approach significantly predicted the behaviour of recipients as the preening dyad was formed: recipients were less likely to autopreen before approaching older actors to begin an allopreening bout. When recipients autopreened, actors were more likely to make the approach. Recipients that did not autopreen or otherwise conspicuously display were significantly more likely to approach the actor without first autopreening. We suggest that autopreening in these bouts is a socially modulated behaviour representative of uncertainty and/or subordination.
Heritability and characteristics of resin ducts in Pinus oocarpa stems in Michoacán, Mexico
Authors: Fabián-Plesníková Irenka , Sáenz-Romero Cuauhtémoc , Cruz-De-León José , Martínez-Trujillo Miguel , Sánchez-Vargas Nahum M. , Terrazas Teresa
Published: February 2021

Despite the extensive distribution and use of Pinus oocarpa in Mexico, knowledge on the range of genetic variation and magnitude of quantitative parameters of the defensive structures of the species is rare. Our study attempts to fill this gap by providing a comprehensive assessment of resin duct traits in mother trees and their offsprings in an open-pollinated trial of P. oocarpa. Resin ducts are fundamental structures of the defense mechanisms of the coniferous trees. They vary depending on the age of the tree, the genotype, the species, and may be influenced by environmental factors. We investigated intraspecific variation among families of the resin duct system in secondary vascular tissues (wood and inner bark) of P. oocarpa trees. Our study attempts to explore the variance and the possible genetic control of these defensive structures. We hypothesized that the resin duct features analyzed would vary with the tree’s genetic make-up. We analyzed samples from two groups of trees. First, from mature mother trees selected as superior in resin yield. Second, from their six-year-old off-springs established in a progeny trial. Axial and radial ducts showed differences in their size and quantity, between wood and bark and between ages. The axial duct density showed differences among families, and the heritability estimates were moderate. In P. oocarpa trees selected as phenotypically superior in resin yield, the size of its constitutive resin ducts is a less variable trait, and the differences in axial duct density can be attributed to genetic factors.
A new species of Osteospermum subgen. Tripteris (Asteraceae: Calenduleae) from the Namib Desert, Namibia

Authors: SWANEPOEL WESSEL , CAUWER VERA DE , WYK ABRAHAM E. VAN
Published: February 2021

Osteospermum namibense, here described as a new species, is known only from the northern part of the Namib Desert in the Kaokoveld Centre of Endemism, northwestern Namibia. Within a broad generic concept for Osteospermum (tribe Calenduleae), the new species is a member of subgen. Tripteris. These dwarf shrubs grow on rocky outcrops under harsh desert conditions. Diagnostic characters for Osteospermum namibense include the perennial, woody habit, di- or trichotomous branching, succulent leaves arranged in rosettes, and capitula with 12–14 rays. A comparison of some of the more prominent morphological features to differentiate between O. namibense and its possible nearest relative, O. microcarpum (=Tripteris microcarpa), is provided. Based on IUCN Red List categories and criteria, a conservation assessment of Vulnerable (VU D1) is recommended for the new species.
Taxonomic corrections for Asian Fingulus (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae)
Authors: WANG YANG , CHEN LING , RÉDEI DÁVID
Published: February 2021

The identities of two East and Southeast Asian species of the plant bug genus Fingulus Distant, 1904 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae: Deraeocorinae: Deraeocorini) are clarified based on their type specimens. The following new subjective synonymies are proposed: F. longicornis Miyamoto, 1965 = F. brevirostris Ren, 1983, syn. nov.; and F. ruficeps Hsiao & Ren, 1983 = F. henrytomi Nakatani & Yasunaga, 2018, syn. nov. Previous records of F. umbonatus Stonedahl & Cassis, 1991 from Hainan, China, and F. collaris Miyamoto, 1965 from Zhejiang and Yunnan, China, are regarded as misidentifications of F. ruficeps and F. inflatus Stonedahl & Cassis, 1991, respectively.
New record of Megalestes gyalsey Gyeltshen, Kalkman & Orr, 2017 (Zygoptera: Synlestidae) from India, with first description of female and larva
Authors: PAYRA ARAJUSH , DAWN PROSENJIT , SUBRAMANIAN K. A. , DEEPAK C. K. , CHANDRA KAILASH , TRIPATHY BASUDEV
Published: February 2021

Megalestes gyalsey Gyeltshen, Kalkman & Orr, 2017 is recorded for the first time from India, extending the known geographic range of the species. This report is based on the collection of 5 individuals (4 males, 1 female) from Jang waterfall, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh and 2 males from Neora Valley National Park, Kalimpong district, West Bengal. The female of M. gyalsey is described for the first time with notes on the variation in the male. A probable larva of the species is also described and illustrated.
Subseasonal Predictability of Arctic Ocean Sea Ice Conditions: Bering Strait and Ekman-Driven Ocean Heat Transport
Authors: Lenetsky Jed E. , Tremblay Bruno , Brunette Charles , Meneghello Gianluca
Published: February 2021

We use ocean observations and reanalyses to investigate the subseasonal predictability of summer and fall sea ice area (SIA) in the western Arctic Ocean associated with lateral ocean heat transport (OHT) through Bering Strait and vertical OHT along the Alaskan coastline from Ekman divergence and upwelling. Results show predictive skill of spring Bering Strait OHT anomalies in the Chukchi Sea and eastern East Siberian Sea for June and July SIA, followed by a sharp drop in predictive skill in August, September, and October and a resurgence of the correlation in November during freeze-up. Fall upwelling of Pacific Water along the Alaskan coastline—a mechanism that was proposed as a preconditioner for lower sea ice concentration (SIC) in the Beaufort Sea the following summer—shows minimal predictive strength on both local and regional scales for any months of the melt season. A statistical hindcast based on May Bering Strait OHT anomalies explains 77% of July Chukchi Sea SIA variance. Using OHT as a predictor of SIA anomalies in the Chukchi Sea improves hindcasts from the simple linear trend by 35% and predictions from spring sea ice thickness anomalies by 24%. This work highlights the importance of ocean heat anomalies for melt season sea ice prediction and provides observational evidence of subseasonal changes in forecast skill observed in model-based forecasts of the Chukchi Sea.
A Real-Time Algorithm to Identify Convective Precipitation Adjacent to or within the Bright Band in the Radar Scan Domain
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Qi Youcun , Li Donghuan , Zhu Ziwei , Yang Meilin , Wang Nan , Yang Yin , Hu Qiyuan
Published: February 2021

Hydrological hazards usually occur after heavy precipitation, especially during strong convection. Therefore, accurately identifying convective precipitation is very helpful for hydrological warning and forecasting. However, separating the convective, bright band (BB), and stratiform precipitation is found to be challenging when the convection is adjacent to or within the BB region. A new convection/BB/stratiform precipitation segregation algorithm is proposed in this study to resolve this challenging issue. This algorithm is applicable for a single radar volume scan data in native (polar) coordinates and consists of four processes: 1) check the freezing (0°C) level to roughly assess whether convection is occurring or not; 2) identify the convective cores through analyzing composite reflectivity (maximum reflectivity for a given range gate among all the sweeps), vertically integrated liquid water (VIL), VIL horizontal gradient, and reflectivity at the levels of 0°, −10°, and above −10°C; 3) delineate the whole convective region through the seeded region growing method by taking account of the microphysical differences between the BB and convective regions; and 4) delineate BB features in the stratiform region. The proposed algorithm utilizes the physical characteristics of different precipitation types for precisely segregating the convective, BB, and stratiform precipitation. This algorithm has been tested with radar data of different precipitation events and evaluated with three months of rain gauge data. The results show that the proposed algorithm performs consistently well for challenging precipitation events with the convection adjacent to or within a strong BB. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm could be used to improve the vertical profile of reflectivity (VPR) correction and reduce the overestimation of rainfall in the BB precipitation region.
A Cost-Benefit Analysis of an Overseas Volunteer Mission to the Local Healthcare System
Authors: Gachabayov Mahir , Latifi Lulejeta A. , Rivera Renato , Baluyot Fancy S. , Latifi Rifat
Published: February 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the sustainability and cost-benefit of the Operation Giving Back Bohol surgical volunteerism mission (SVM) carried out in Bohol Province, Philippines, over twelve consecutive missions.

Methods

This was a cost-benefit analysis of prospectively collected financial data from twelve consecutive surgical volunteerism missions held between 2006 and 2018. The overall cost of an SVM and cost per patient were the endpoints of interest. Disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and costs thereof were calculated for each patient undergoing surgery in the twelve SVMs.

Results

A mean of 112 ± 22 patients were included per year of the SVM. A statistically significant increasing trend in the overall cost of SVMs over time was found ( R2 = .469; P = .014). A nonsignificant decreasing trend in the cost per patient over time was found ( R2 = .007; P = .795). A total of 8811.71 DALYs were averted in the twelve SVMs. DALYs averted per year ranged between 474.02 (2009) and 969.16 (2012). Cost per a DALY averted ranged between $466.9 (2006) and $865.6 (2009). Comparison of the latter with GDP per capita showed that this SVM was “very cost-effective.”

Conclusion

The SVM contributes substantially to the health care system both clinically and financially. A total of 8812 DALYs were averted in these twelve SVMs. Costs per a DALY averted did not significantly change over the mission years. Increasing the number of patients served has increased the total cost of the mission with no impact on the cost per patient.
Incidental Findings on Whole-body Computed Tomography in Major Trauma Patients: Who and What?
Authors: Liu Ping-Yuan , Kuo Ling-Wei , Liao Chien-Hung , Hsieh Chi-Hsun , Bajani Francesco , Fu Chih-Yuan
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Whole-body computed tomography (WBCT) scans are frequently used for trauma patients, and sometimes, nontraumatic findings are observed. We aimed to investigate the characteristics of patients with nontraumatic findings on WBCT.

Methods

From 2013 to 2016, adult trauma patients who underwent WBCT were enrolled. The proportions of nontraumatic findings in different anatomical regions were studied. Nontraumatic findings were classified and evaluated as clinically important findings and findings that needed no further follow-up or treatment. The characteristics of the patients with nontraumatic findings were analyzed and compared with those of patients without nontraumatic findings.

Results

Two hundred seventeen patients were enrolled in this study during the 3-year study period, and 89 (41.0%) patients had nontraumatic findings. Nontraumatic findings were found more frequently in the abdomen (69.2%) than in the head/neck (17.3%) and chest regions (13.5%). In total, 31.3% of the findings needed further follow-up or treatment. Patients with nontraumatic findings that needed further management were significantly older than those without nontraumatic findings (57.3 vs. 38.9; P < .001), particularly those with abdominal nontraumatic findings (57.9 vs. 41.3; P < .001). A significantly higher proportion of women were observed in the group with head/neck nontraumatic findings that needed further management than in the group without nontraumatic findings (56.3% vs 24.9%; P = .015).

Conclusions

Whole-body computed tomography could provide alternative benefits for nontraumatic findings. Whole-body computed tomography images should be read carefully for nontraumatic findings, particularly for elderly patients or the head/neck region of female patients. A comprehensive program for the follow-up of nontraumatic findings is needed.