bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stimulation of Acanthamoeba castellanii excystment by enzyme treatment and consequences on trophozoite growth
Authors: Fechtali-Moute Zineb , Loiseau Philippe M. , Pomel Sébastien
Published: September 2022

Acanthamoeba castellanii is a widespread Free-Living Amoeba (FLA) that can cause severe ocular or cerebral infections in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients, respectively, besides its capacity to transport diverse pathogens. During their life cycle, FLA can alternate between a vegetative form, called a trophozoite, and a latent and resistant form, called a cyst. This resistant form is characterized by the presence of a cell wall containing two layers, namely the ectocyst and the endocyst, mainly composed of cellulose and proteins. In the present work, we aimed to stimulate Acanthamoeba castellanii excystment by treating their cysts with a cellulolytic enzyme, i.e., cellulase, or two proteolytic enzymes, i.e., collagenase and pepsin. While 11 days were necessary to obtain total excystment in the control at 27°C, only 48 h were sufficient at the same temperature to obtain 100% trophozoites in the presence of 25 U/mL cellulase, 50 U/mL collagenase or 100 U/mL pepsin. Additionally, more than 96% amoebae have excysted after only 24 h with 7.5 U/mL cellulase at 30°C. Nevertheless, no effect of the three enzymes was observed on the excystment of Balamuthia mandrillaris and Vermamoeba vermiformis. Surprisingly, A. castellanii trophozoites excysted in the presence of cellulase displayed a markedly shorter doubling time at 7 h, in comparison to the control at 23 h. Likewise, trophozoites doubled their population in 9 h when both cellulose and cellulase were added to the medium, indicating that Acanthamoeba cyst wall degradation products promote their trophozoite proliferation. The analysis of cysts in epifluorescent microscopy using FITC-lectins and in electron microscopy revealed a disorganized endocyst and a reduction of the intercystic space area after cellulase treatment, implying that these cellular events are preliminary to trophozoite release during excystment. Further studies would be necessary to determine the signaling pathways involved during this amoebal differentiation process to identify new therapeutic targets for the development of anti-acanthamoebal drugs.
The LEM-ESCRT toolkit: Repair and maintenance of the nucleus
Authors: Borah Sapan , Dhanasekaran Karthigeyan , Kumar Santosh
Published: September 2022

The eukaryotic genome is enclosed in a nuclear envelope that protects it from potentially damaging cellular activities and physically segregates transcription and translation.Transport across the NE is highly regulated and occurs primarily via the macromolecular nuclear pore complexes.Loss of nuclear compartmentalization due to defects in NPC function and NE integrity are tied to neurological and ageing disorders like Alzheimer’s, viral pathogenesis, immune disorders, and cancer progression.Recent work implicates inner-nuclear membrane proteins of the conserved LEM domain family and the ESCRT machinery in NE reformation during cell division and NE repair upon rupture in migrating cancer cells, and generating seals over defective NPCs. In this review, we discuss the recent in-roads made into defining the molecular mechanisms and biochemical networks engaged by LEM and many other integral inner nuclear membrane proteins to preserve the nuclear barrier.
Neurodegeneration-associated mitochondrial proteins, CHCHD2 and CHCHD10–what distinguishes the two?
Authors: Ikeda Aya , Imai Yuzuru , Hattori Nobutaka
Published: September 2022

Coiled-coil-helix-coiled-coil-helix domain containing 2 (CHCHD2) and Coiled-coil-helix-coiled-coil-helix domain containing 10 (CHCHD10) are mitochondrial proteins that are thought to be genes which duplicated during evolution and are the causative genes for Parkinson’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal lobe dementia, respectively. CHCHD2 forms a heterodimer with CHCHD10 and a homodimer with itself, both of which work together within the mitochondria. Various pathogenic and disease-risk variants have been identified; however, how these mutations cause neurodegeneration in specific diseases remains a mystery. This review focuses on important new findings published since 2019 and discusses avenues to solve this mystery.
Pax3/7 regulates neural tube closure and patterning in a non-vertebrate chordate
Authors: Kim Kwantae , Orvis Jameson , Stolfi Alberto
Published: September 2022

Pax3/7 factors play numerous roles in the development of the dorsal nervous system of vertebrates. From specifying neural crest at the neural plate borders, to regulating neural tube closure and patterning of the resulting neural tube. However, it is unclear which of these roles are conserved in non-vertebrate chordates. Here we investigate the expression and function of Pax3/7 in the model tunicate Ciona. Pax3/7 is expressed in neural plate border cells during neurulation, and in central nervous system progenitors shortly after neural tube closure. We find that separate cis-regulatory elements control the expression in these two distinct lineages. Using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutagenesis, we knocked out Pax3/7 in F0 embryos specifically in these two separate territories. Pax3/7 knockout in the neural plate borders resulted in neural tube closure defects, suggesting an ancient role for Pax3/7 in this chordate-specific process. Furthermore, knocking out Pax3/7 in the neural impaired Motor Ganglion neuron specification, confirming a conserved role for this gene in patterning the neural tube as well. Taken together, these results suggests that key functions of Pax3/7 in neural tube development are evolutionarily ancient, dating back at least to the last common ancestor of vertebrates and tunicates.
Probing oxygen activation on plasmonic photocatalysts
Authors: Dingenen Fons , Borah Rituraj , Ninakanti Rajeshreddy , Verbruggen Sammy W.
Published: September 2022

In this work we present an assay to probe the oxygen activation rate on plasmonic nanoparticles under visible light. Using a superoxide-specific XTT molecular probe, the oxygen activation rate on bimetallic gold-silver “rainbow” nanoparticles with a broadband visible light (> 420 nm) response, is determined at different light intensities by measuring its conversion into the colored XTT-formazan derivate. A kinetic model is applied to enable a quantitative estimation of the rate constant, and is shown to match almost perfectly with the experimental data. Next, the broadband visible light driven oxygen activation capacity of this plasmonic rainbow system, supported on nano-sized SiO2, is demonstrated towards the oxidation of aniline to azobenzene in DMSO. To conclude, a brief theoretical discussion is devoted to the possible mechanisms behind such plasmon-driven reactions.
Carbon nanomaterials for drug delivery and tissue engineering
Authors: Zheng Shaolie , Tian Yuan , Ouyang Jiang , Shen Yuan , Wang Xiaoyu , Luan Jian
Published: September 2022

Carbon nanomaterials are some of the state-of-the-art materials used in drug-delivery and tissue-engineering research. Compared with traditional materials, carbon nanomaterials have the advantages of large specific surface areas and unique properties and are more suitable for use in drug delivery and tissue engineering after modification. Their characteristics, such as high drug loading and tissue loading, good biocompatibility, good targeting and long duration of action, indicate their great development potential for biomedical applications. In this paper, the synthesis and application of carbon dots (CDs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene in drug delivery and tissue engineering are reviewed in detail. In this review, we discuss the current research focus and existing problems of carbon nanomaterials in order to provide a reference for the safe and effective application of carbon nanomaterials in drug delivery and tissue engineering.
Ion selectivity and gating behavior of the CorA-type channel Bpss1228
Authors: Zhu Yibo , Wang Yu , Zhang Yanjing , Pu Mengjun , Miao Wenqian , Bai Mingran , Bao Rui , Geng Jia
Published: September 2022

Magnesium is an essential element to sustain all forms of life. Total intracellular magnesium content is determined by the balance of magnesium influx and efflux. CorA is a divalent selective channel in the metal ion transport superfamily and is the major Mg2+ uptake pathway in prokaryotes and eukaryotic mitochondria. Previous studies have demonstrated that CorA showed distinct magnesium bound closed conformation and Mg2+-free states. In addition, CorA is regulated by cytoplasmic magnesium ions and its gating mechanism has been investigated by electron paramagnetic resonance technique and molecular dynamic simulations. Here, we report a study of the putative CorA-type channel Bpss1228 from Burkholderia pseudomallei, which has been shown to be significantly associated with pseudomallei infection. We expressed and purified the Bpss1228 in full-length. Subsequently, electrophysiological experiments further investigated the electrical characteristics of Bpss1228 and revealed that it was a strictly cation-selective channel. We also proved that Bpss1228 not only possessed magnesium-mediated regulatory property a remarkable ability to be modulated by magnesium ions. Finally, we observed the three-step gating behavior of Bpss1228 on planar lipid bilayer, and further proposed a synergistic gating mechanism by which CorA family channels control intracellular magnesium homeostasis.
The reality of remote extended reality research: Practical case studies and taxonomy
Authors: Kroma Assem , Grinyer Kristen , Scavarelli Anthony , Samimi Elaheh , Kyian Stanislav , Teather Robert J.
Published: September 2022

Remote user studies—those where the experimenter and participant are not physically located together—offer challenges and opportunities in HCI research in general, and extended reality (XR) research specifically. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced this form of research to overcome a long period of unprecedented circumstances. However, this experience has produced a lot of lessons learned that should be shared. We propose guidelines based on findings from a set of six remote virtual reality studies, by analyzing participants' and researchers' feedback. These studies ranged from one-session types to longitudinal ones and spanned a variety of subjects such as cybersickness, selection tasks, and visual search. In this paper, we offer a big-picture summary of how we conducted these studies, our research design considerations, our findings in these case studies, and what worked well and what did not in different scenarios. Additionally, we propose a taxonomy for devising such studies in a systematic and easy-to-follow manner. We argue that the XR community should move from theoretical proposals and thought pieces to testing and sharing practical data-informed proposals and guidelines.
Sex differences in the impact of frailty in elderly outpatients with heart failure
Authors: Díez-Villanueva Pablo , Jiménez-Méndez César , Bonanad Clara , Ortiz-Cortés Carolina , Barge-Caballero Eduardo , Goirigolzarri Josebe , Esteban-Fernández Alberto , Pérez-Rivera Angel , Cobo Marta , Sanz-García Ancor , Formiga Francesc , Ariza-Solé Albert , Martínez-Sellés Manuel , Alfonso Fernando
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Frailty is common among patients with heart failure (HF). Our aim was to address the role of frailty in the management and prognosis of elderly men and women with HF.

Methods and results

Prospective multicenter registry that included 499 HF outpatients ≥75 years old. Mean age was 81.4 ± 4.3 years, and 193 (38%) were women. Compared with men, women were older (81.9 ± 4.3 vs. 81.0 ± 4.2 years, p = 0.03) and had higher left ventricular ejection fraction (46 vs. 40%, p < 0.001) and less ischemic heart disease (30 vs. 57%, p < 0.001). Women had a higher prevalence of frailty (22 vs. 10% with Clinical Frailty Scale, 34 vs. 15% with FRAIL, and 67% vs. 46% with the mobility visual scale, all p-values < 0.001) and other geriatric conditions (Barthel index ≤90: 14.9 vs. 6.2%, p = 0.003; malnutrition according to Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Formulary ≤11: 55% vs. 42%, p = 0.007; Pfeiffer cognitive test's errors: 1.6 ± 1.7 vs. 1.0 ± 1.6, p < 0.001; depression according to Yesavage test; p < 0.001) and lower comorbidity (Charlson index ≥4: 14.1% vs. 22.1%, p = 0.038). Women also showed worse self-reported quality of life (6.5 ± 2.1 vs. 6.9 ± 1.9, on a scale from 0 to 10, p = 0.012). In the univariate analysis, frailty was an independent predictor of mortality in men [Hazard ratio (HR) 3.18, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.29–7.83, p = 0.012; HR 4.53, 95% CI 2.08–9.89, p < 0.001; and HR 2.61, 95% CI 1.23–5.43, p = 0.010, according to FRAIL, Clinical Frailty Scale, and visual mobility scale, respectively], but not in women. In the multivariable analysis, frailty identified by the visual mobility scale was an independent predictor of mortality (HR 1.95, 95% CI 1.04–3.67, p = 0.03) and mortality/readmission (HR 2.06, 95% CI 1.05–4.04, p = 0.03) in men.

Conclusions

In elderly outpatients with HF frailty is more common in women than in men. However, frailty is only associated with mortality in men.
Infective endocarditis in developing countries: An update
Authors: Mutagaywa Reuben K. , Vroon Josephine C. , Fundikira Lulu , Wind Anna Maria , Kunambi Peter , Manyahi Joel , Kamuhabwa Apollinary , Kwesigabo Gideon , Chamuleau Steven A. J. , Cramer Maarten J. , Chillo Pilly
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Despite advances in diagnostic and treatment, morbidity and mortality due to infective endocarditis (IE) has not decreased. There is a discrepancy in epidemiology of IE between developed and developing countries. Over the last years, increased early detection and consequently prevalence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) and congenital heart disease (CHD) which are considered predisposing conditions for IE, is noted. Here, we present a review of literature on IE in developing countries.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search of IE studies in developing countries through PubMed and Embase. We have divided the studies into two groups: studies published before 2015 (group 1) and studies ≥ 2015 (group 2). The outcome was defined as a difference in epidemiology, microbiology, treatment, and mortality over time. The Scale for Assessment of Narrative Review Articles guidelines was applied.

Findings

In total, 16 studies were included. The total number of IE cases was 1,098 and 1,505 in groups 1 and 2, respectively. We compared 4/7 cohorts from group 1 (n = 789) with 5/9 cohorts from group 2 (n = 636). Six studies were not included in the comparison because they were interacting between the two cohorts. Males predominated in all studies. Rheumatic heart disease was higher in group 1 than in group 2 (42.3% vs. 30.3%, p < 0.001) while for CHD there was no change (17.6% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.672). Streptococci infections was lower in group 1 than group 2 (26.2% vs. 37.7%, p < 0.001). The proportion of Staphylococcus aureus was 15.3% in group 1 and 23.6% in group 2, p < 0.001. Negative blood culture (NBC) was higher in group 1 than in group 2 (42.2% vs. 34.1%, p = 0.002). Patients in group 1 received more surgery than in group 2 (38.8% vs. 28.8%, p < 0.001). Mortality was similar in the two groups (20.9% vs. 22.3%, p = 0.518).

Conclusion

This review shows a scarcity of studies on IE in developing countries. Rheumatic heart disease and congenital heart disease are common predisposing conditions. Other risk factors are prosthetic valves, degenerative valve disease (DVD), intravenous drug use, and human immunodeficiency virus infection. While the proportion of IE cases caused by Streptococcus and Staphylococcus has increased, the number of NBC and patients getting surgery has decreased. Mortality has not changed over time. Timely diagnosis and management of patients with RHD and CHD and comprehensive management of IE are warranted.
Worldwide long-term trends in the incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease during 1990–2019: A joinpoint and age-period-cohort analysis
Authors: Wu Wentao , Feng Aozi , Ma Wen , Li Daning , Zheng Shuai , Xu Fengshuo , Han Didi , Lyu Jun
Published: September 2022

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) was previously a neglected disease that is now becoming a worldwide pandemic. A better understanding of its incidence and long-term trends will help to increase public awareness of the disease and the development of future prevention strategies.

Methods

The incidence rates of NAFLD during 1990–2019 were collected from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 database according to the following parameters: sex, age, socio-demographic index, and geographical region. Estimated annual percentage changes and joinpoint models were used to assess the long-term trend of NAFLD, and an age-period-cohort model was used to assess the extents of the age, period, and cohort effects.

Results

Adult males, postmenopausal females, Latin American populations, and people in developing countries had a high risk of developing NAFLD. The joinpoint model indicated a new trend of increasing NAFLD incidence in 2005. Age was a risk factor affecting NAFLD incidence, with this effect increasing in more-recent periods. Younger birth cohorts had lower risks of NAFLD.

Conclusions

Recent prevention measures for NAFLD have achieved good initial results. However, it remains a high priority to increase the public awareness of this condition, develop its diagnostic criteria, identify cost-effective screening methods, and seek policy support to act against NAFLD, which will be a major public health problem in the future.
Effects of potential risk factors on the development of cardiometabolic multimorbidity and mortality among the elders in China
Authors: Zhang Huihui , Duan Xinyu , Rong Peixi , Dang Yusong , Yan Mingxin , Zhao Yaling , Chen Fangyao , Zhou Jing , Chen Yulong , Wang Duolao , Pei Leilei
Published: September 2022

Objectives

To examine the impact of demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioral factors on the development of cardiometabolic multimorbidity and mortality in Chinese elders.

Methods

Data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) 2002–2018 was used in the study. Cardiometabolic multimorbidity was defined as the presence of two or more cardiometabolic disorders, such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), heart disease, or stroke. Cox regression model and multi-state Markov model were developed to evaluate the association of the study factors with the progression of cardiometabolic conditions and mortality. The outcomes included three states (first cardiometabolic disease, cardiometabolic multimorbidity, and all-cause mortality) and five possible transitions among the three states.

Results

Of the 13,933 eligible individuals, 7,917 (56.8%) were female, and 9,540 (68.50%) were over 80 years old. 2,766 (19.9%) participants had their first cardiometabolic disease, 975 (7.0%) participants suffered from cardiometabolic multimorbidity, and 9,365 (67.2%) participants died. The progression to cardiometabolic multimorbidity was positively associated with being female (HR = 1.42; 95%CI, 1.10 − 1.85), living in the city (HR = 1.41; 95%CI, 1.04 − 1.93), overweight (HR = 1.43; 95%CI, 1.08 − 1.90), and obesity (HR = 1.75; 95% CI, 1.03 − 2.98). A higher risk for the first cardiometabolic disease was associated with being female (HR = 1.26; 95% CI, 1.15 − 1.39), higher socioeconomic status (SES, HR = 1.17; 95%CI, 1.07 − 1.28), lack of regular physical activity (HR = 1.13; 95%CI, 1.04 − 1.23), smoking (HR = 1.20; 95%CI, 1.08 − 1.33), ≤ 5 h sleep time (HR = 1.15; 95%CI, 1.02 − 1.30), overweight (HR = 1.48; 95% CI, 1.32 − 1.66), and obesity (HR = 1.34; 95%CI, 1.06 − 1.69). It also should be noted that not in marriage, lower SES and unhealthy behavioral patterns were risk factors for mortality.

Conclusion

This study emphasized the importance of lifestyle and SES in tackling the development of cardiometabolic conditions among Chinese elders and provided a reference for policy-makers to develop a tailored stage-specific intervention strategy.
Chronic intermittent hypoxia accelerates cardiac dysfunction and cardiac remodeling during cardiac pressure overload in mice and can be alleviated by PHD3 overexpression
Authors: Xu Xuan , Zhen Peng-Hao , Yu Fu-Chao , Wang Tao , Li Sheng-Nan , Wei Qin , Tong Jia-Yi
Published: September 2022

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) accelerates the progression of chronic heart failure (CHF). OSA is characterized by chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), and CIH exposure accelerates cardiac systolic dysfunction and cardiac remodeling in a cardiac afterload stress mouse model. Mechanistic experiments showed that long-term CIH exposure activated hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) expression in the mouse heart and upregulated miR-29c expression and that both HIF-1α and miR-29c simultaneously inhibited sarco-/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase 2a (SERCA2a) expression in the mouse heart. Cardiac HIF-1α activation promoted cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. SERCA2a expression was suppressed in mouse heart in middle- and late-stage cardiac afterload stress, and CIH exposure further downregulated SERCA2a expression and accelerated cardiac systolic dysfunction. Prolyl hydroxylases (PHDs) are physiological inhibitors of HIF-1α, and PHD3 is most highly expressed in the heart. Overexpression of PHD3 inhibited CIH-induced HIF-1α activation in the mouse heart while decreasing miR-29c expression, stabilizing the level of SERCA2a. Although PHD3 overexpression did not reduce mortality in mice, it alleviated cardiac systolic dysfunction and cardiac remodeling induced by CIH exposure.
Contrast between continental and oceanic thunderstorms in producing red sprites and halos
Authors: Lu Gaopeng , Peng Kang-Ming , Xian Tao , Wang Yongping , Ren Huan , Tian Ye , Zhang Mao , Lucena Frankie , Zhang Xiaoyang , Huang Xin , Cheng Zhengwei
Published: September 2022

The observations of transient luminous events from space-borne platform extend our exploration on the mysteries of sprite phenomenology from continental thunderstorms to oceanic thunderstorms. By combining with ground-based measurements of causative strokes for hundreds of red sprites observed by the Imager of Sprites and Upper Atmospheric Lightnings (ISUAL) during 2004–2016, there is a consensus that negative cloud-to-ground (CG) strokes spawned by oceanic thunderstorms are more readily to produce sprites. The existing ground-based observations in both Caribbean Sea and near the coast of South China, mainly due to the contributions from numerous amateurs, are generally consistent with the implications of ISUAL observations. However, the physical mechanisms that might cause the enhancement of negative CG strength in the ocean remain not completely understood. There have been analyses on several cases of oceanic thunderstorms abundant in producing negative sprites. It seems that the production of negative sprites heavily depends on the size of parent thunderstorms, and they are often generated by thunderstorm conditions that are also favorable for gigantic jets.
Circulating osteogenic progenitors and osteoclast precursors are associated with long-term glycemic control, sex steroids, and visceral adipose tissue in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ballato Elliot , Deepika Fnu , Prado Mia , Russo Vittoria , Fuenmayor Virginia , Bathina Siresha , Villareal Dennis T. , Qualls Clifford , Armamento-Villareal Reina
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is well-known to be associated with normal bone density but, concurrently, low bone turnover and increased risk for fracture. One of the proposed mechanisms is possible derangement in bone precursor cells, which could be represented by deficiencies in circulating osteogenic progenitor (COP) cells and osteoclast precursors (OCP). The objective of our study is to understand whether extent of glycemic control has an impact on these cells, and to identify other factors that may as well.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of baseline data from 51 male participants, aged 37-65 in an ongoing clinical trial at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA. At study entry serum Hemoglobin A1c was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography osteocalcin (OCN) and C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTx) were measured by ELISA, and testosterone and estradiol by liquid-chromatography/mass-spectrometry. Areal bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular bone score and body composition were measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, while COP and OCP were measured by flow cytometry.

Results

When adjusted for serum testosterone, parathyroid hormone, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D, those with poor long-term glycemic control had significantly higher percentage of COP (p = 0.04). COP correlated positively with visceral adipose tissue (VAT) volume (r = 0.37, p = 0.01) and negatively with free testosterone (r = -0.28, p = 0.05) and OCN (r = -0.28, p = 0.07), although only borderline for the latter. OCP correlated positively with age, FSH, lumbar spine BMD, and COP levels, and negatively with glucose, triglycerides, and free estradiol. Multivariable regression analyses revealed that, in addition to being predictors for each other, another independent predictor for COP was VAT volume while age, glucose, and vitamin D for OCP.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that high COP could be a marker of poor metabolic control. However, given the complex nature and the multitude of factors influencing osteoblastogenesis/adipogenesis, it is possible that the increase in COP is a physiologic response of the bone marrow to increased osteoblast apoptosis from poor glycemic control. Alternatively, it is also likely that a metabolically unhealthy profile may retard the development of osteogenic precursors to fully mature osteoblastic cells.
The diaphragm coupling in energy equipment: A review
Authors: Wang Guoping , Liu Jixuan , Cheng Shuang , Yan Feifei , Jia Qian , Han Haiyan
Published: September 2022

With the rapid development of high-speed rotating machinery, diaphragm couplings are widely used in energy equipment such as compressors, generators, drilling equipment, and turbine drives by virtue of their high sensitivity, oil resistance and corrosion resistance. However, the theoretical research of this product mainly focuses on the design of diaphragm profile, the combination form between diaphragms, the overall structural form of diaphragm coupling and the axial dynamic characteristics of diaphragm coupling. Therefore, this paper analyzes and summarizes the current research status of diaphragm couplings in the world, and puts forward the problems that need to be solved in the field of diaphragm coupling research, and proposes a new direction for the subsequent research.
Data and model hybrid-driven virtual reality robot operating system
Authors: Liu Xinyu , Nan Lin , Lin Yuexin , Han Jiatong , Liu Jinxin , Ku Tao
Published: September 2022

To realize efficient remote human-computer interaction of robots, a robot remote operating system based on virtual reality and digital twin is proposed. The system builds a digital twin model based on the Unity 3D engine to establish a connection with the robot entity, assisting the online remote programming and real-time manipulation of the robot unit. The system uses HTC VIVE to build a virtual reality framework. To actualize the mutual drive between the real space and the virtual space, a mathematical model of the robot is constructed through the forward and inverse kinematics of the robot. Through the combination of eye-tracking-based eye movement interaction and the unique controller interaction of virtual reality system, a multi-sensory multi-input collaborative interaction method is accomplished. The method realizes the robot joints driving of users using multiple interaction methods simultaneously, simplifies the robot programming and control procedure, and optimizes the operation experience. Tests demonstrate that the system is capable of effectively providing monitoring, teleoperation and programming services for remote interaction of robots.
Game theory applications in the electricity market and renewable energy trading: A critical survey
Authors: Huang Wen , Li Heng
Published: September 2022

With the acceleration of China’s electricity market construction, it is urgent to establish a unified electricity transaction mechanism to balance the interests of all parties and build a competitive electricity market. Game theory has significant advantages in the study of decision optimization among multiple decision-making bodies that interact and compete with each other. Therefore, the application of game theory in the electricity system has attracted the attention and research of a large number of scholars, among which the research on the electricity market accounts for the highest proportion. In this study, the concept and evolution of cooperative game theory, non-cooperative game theory, and evolutionary game theory in game theory are described in detail. Second, the status quo and scale of the domestic and foreign electricity market are sorted out and summarized. Finally, according to the research results of the application of three kinds of game theory in the electricity market in recent years, this study evaluates and analyzes the three typical aspects of the power generation side, the power sale side, and the power consumption side, and puts forward the prospect of the application of game theory in the electricity market in the future.
Rotating Disk Electrode Standardization and Best Practices in Acidic Oxygen Evolution for Low-Temperature Electrolysis
Authors: Alia Shaun M. , Danilovic Nemanja
Published: September 2022

Efforts in oxygen evolution catalyst development have significantly increased and often use rotating disk electrode half-cells to evaluate intrinsic kinetics and screen materials for short-term durability. Standardizing rotating disk electrode test protocols is critical to experimental accuracy, to realistically assess their potential impact at a device level and to assess how different catalyst approaches and concepts are prioritized. The goal of this study is to provide standardized test protocols and suggest best practices to help reduce variability in ex situ materials characterization in the broader community. Specifically, these protocols focus on test cleanliness and materials choices, including how electrodes are prepared and tested, and the impact on activity observations.
RETRACTED: Is the interaction of commercial regulation with foreign direct investment a source of Heaven or EKC hypothesis? An empirical investigation of the BRICS region
Authors: Wu Chenmu , Zhou Xiaoming , Ali Muhammad
Published: September 2022

It is generally agreed that the quality of institutions, the amount of energy consumed, and foreign direct investment are among the essential factors in sustainable development. On the other hand, these aspects are just as critical as the others when determining what causes environmental deterioration and how the climate changes globally. This research used the dataset of the BRICS countries, which are classified as emerging nations, intending to determine the nature of the relationship between foreign direct investment and institutional quality in terms of an interaction term, in addition to other independent variables and environmental quality. The objective of this study was to determine whether or not a Pollution Heaven or Environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) exists in the BRICS countries. To accomplish this objective, the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) technique of econometrics was utilized to estimate a 21-year dataset between 2000 and 2020. The Pollution Heaven theory was shown to be true after empirical research was conducted on the BRICS economies. In these economies, this finding verified the expansion of foreign direct investment and the proliferation of business rules were sources of environmental degradation. In addition, no evidence was discovered to support the presence of the EKC theory in any of the BRICS countries or areas. Based on these empirical outcomes, this research suggested that the introduction of appropriate commercial laws is required to translate the benefits of foreign direct investment into environmentally sustainable development.
Impact of factor quality improvement on agricultural carbon emissions: Evidence from China’s high-standard farmland
Authors: Yang Ningze , Sun Xuetao , Qi Qi
Published: September 2022

Reducing agricultural carbon emissions is essential to address climate change comprehensively, and improving factor quality reduces agricultural carbon emissions by promoting agricultural transformation. Based on the policy experiment of high standard farmland construction in China, this paper analyzes the role of factor quality in reducing agricultural carbon emissions using the SARAR model and data from 280 urban agricultural sectors. The study finds a significant spatial correlation between agricultural carbon emissions and factor quality improvement. Factor quality improvement can reduce agricultural carbon emissions. The disequilibrium effect analysis finds that the impact of factor quality improvement on agricultural carbon emissions has a disequilibrium effect. In other words, factor quality improvement mainly affects agricultural carbon emissions in areas with a higher level of agricultural development. The mediating test suggests that factor quality reduces the improvement of agricultural carbon emissions and promotes the transformation of agricultural industrial structure through the mediating factor of agricultural carbon emissions. Finally, in addressing global climate change, this paper attempts to provide policy references for developing countries to reduce agricultural carbon emissions from factor quality improvement.
Does the government’s environmental attention improve enterprise green innovation?—Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Jing , Li Qinyang , Wang Xiangjun
Published: September 2022

In recent years, governments worldwide have paid more attention to environmental issues, and green innovation is essential to balance economic growth and environmental sustainability. This article investigates the different impacts of the government’s environmental attention on green innovation of heavy-polluting and non-heavy-polluting firms using the sample of listed firms in China from 2011 to 2019. We find that the relationship between the government’s environmental attention and green innovation is consistent with the “U”-shape in heavy-polluting firms. However, the government’s environmental attention positively impacts the green innovation of non-heavy-polluting firms. In addition, Fintech mitigates the negative effects of the government’s environmental attention on green innovation in the short term while enhancing the positive effect of the government’s environmental attention on green innovation in the long term for heavy polluting firms. Our article provides evidence and implications for environmental regulation in developing countries and urban areas.
Identification of host plant volatile stimulants of Anastrepha fraterculus male courtship behavior
Authors: Belliard Silvina Anahí , Bachmann Guillermo Enrique , Fernández Patricia Carina , Hurtado Juan , Vera María Teresa , Segura Diego Fernando
Published: September 2022

In some tephritid fruit flies, exposure to volatile compounds from host plants increases male sexual success. This phenomenon has been used to boost sterile males’ sexual competitiveness in the framework of the sterile insect technique (SIT). Previous studies revealed that males of Anastrepha fraterculus (Diptera: Tephritidae) exposed to volatiles from guava (Psidium guajava) fruit (GF) and guava essential oil (GEO) exhibit intensified courtship behavior and have greater copulatory success relative to unexposed males. Similar results were achieved in these flies through exposure to moradillo (Schinus polygama) essential oil or lemon (Citrus limon) essential oil. To identify the responsible compounds involved in these effects, we compared the volatile chemical profiles of GF, GEO, moradillo essential oil, and lemon essential oil. We selected five candidate compounds: (E)-β-ocimene, (Z)-β-ocimene, limonene, β-caryophyllene, and α-humulene. Using the electroantennographic detection (EAD) technique, we verified that males are able to detect all the candidate compounds and built dose-response curves between 0.01 and 100 μg/μl for each compound. We confirmed a stimulating effect on the courtship behavior of males for (E/Z)-β-ocimene and (R)-limonene, whereas β-caryophyllene and α-Humulene did not affect male courtship behavior. For those compounds that sexually stimulated males, we found a dose-dependent effect. Males’ behavioral response to the semiochemicals was maximum when (R)-limonene was combined with (E/Z)-β-ocimene, but the response was reduced when β-caryophyllene and α-humulene were included, which suggests some sort of negative interaction between them. Our results may contribute to the ongoing development of the SIT in this species.
Enhanced GIRK2 channel signaling in Down syndrome: A feasible role in the development of abnormal nascent neural circuits
Authors: Kleschevnikov Alexander M.
Published: September 2022

The most distinctive feature of Down syndrome (DS) is moderate to severe cognitive impairment. Genetic, molecular, and neuronal mechanisms of this complex DS phenotype are currently under intensive investigation. It is becoming increasingly clear that the abnormalities arise from a combination of initial changes caused by triplication of genes on human chromosome 21 (HSA21) and later compensatory adaptations affecting multiple brain systems. Consequently, relatively mild initial cognitive deficits become pronounced with age. This pattern of changes suggests that one approach to improving cognitive function in DS is to target the earliest critical changes, the prevention of which can change the ‘trajectory’ of the brain development and reduce the destructive effects of the secondary alterations. Here, we review the experimental data on the role of KCNJ6 in DS-specific brain abnormalities, focusing on a putative role of this gene in the development of abnormal neural circuits in the hippocampus of genetic mouse models of DS. It is suggested that the prevention of these early abnormalities with pharmacological or genetic means can ameliorate cognitive impairment in DS.
Comprehensive analysis about prognostic and immunological role of WTAP in pan-cancer
Authors: Lei Jiangchu , Fan Yuzhi , Yan Chaobiao , Jiamaliding Yeernaer , Tang Yang , Zhou Jiawei , Huang Mengna , Ju Guomin , Wu Jian , Peng Chuanhui
Published: September 2022

Background: Wilms tumor 1-associated protein (WTAP) plays a critical role in ribonucleic acid (RNA) methylation of N6 adenosine (m6A) modification, which is closely related with varieties of biological process. However, the role of WTAP in cancers remains to be determined. This study is designed to demonstrate the prognostic landscape of WTAP in pan-cancer and explore the relationship between WTAP expression and immune infiltration.

Methods: Here, we investigated the expression level and prognostic role of WTAP in pan-cancer using multiple databases, including PrognoScan, GEPIA, and Kaplan-Meier Plotter. Then, applying the GEPIA and TIMER databases, we illustrated the correlations between WTAP expression and immune infiltration in tumors, especially liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC), and esophageal carcinoma (ESCA).

Results: WTAP had significant higher expression levels in tumor tissues of ESCA, LIHC, etc., while lower expression levels in those of bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA), breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA), etc. And WTAP demonstrated multifaceted prognostic value in cancers. Of our interests, WTAP exerted a harmful effect on LIHC patient for overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS). WTAP expression also significantly associated with the infiltration levels of B cells, CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells (DC) in LIHC but not ESCA. Furthermore, combined analysis about WTAP expression level and immune cell specific gene markers implied WTAP correlates with regulatory cells (T reg) infiltration in LIHC and ESCA.

Conclusion: The m6A regulator WTAP can serve as a prognostic biomarker for certain tumor types in pan-cancer and potentially result from immune cell infiltration.
Non-cytotoxic functions of CD8 T cells: “repentance of a serial killer”
Authors: Al Moussawy Mouhamad , Abdelsamed Hossam A.
Published: September 2022

Cytotoxic CD8 T cells (CTLs) are classically described as the “serial killers” of the immune system, where they play a pivotal role in protective immunity against a wide spectrum of pathogens and tumors. Ironically, they are critical drivers of transplant rejection and autoimmune diseases, a scenario very similar to the famous novel “The strange case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”.Until recently, it has not been well-appreciated whether CTLs can also acquire non-cytotoxic functions in health and disease. Several investigations into this question revealed their non-cytotoxic functions through interactions with various immune and non-immune cells. In this review, we will establish a new classification for CD8 T cell functions including cytotoxic and non-cytotoxic. Further, we will discuss this novel concept and speculate on how these functions could contribute to homeostasis of the immune system as well as immunological responses in transplantation, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.
Clinicopathological features and individualized treatment of kidney involvement in B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder
Authors: Nie Guangyan , Sun Lianqin , Zhang Chengning , Yuan Yanggang , Mao Huijuan , Wang Zhen , Li Jianyong , Duan Suyan , Xing Changying , Zhang Bo
Published: September 2022

Background

Due to the various clinical and pathological manifestations of kidney involvement in lymphoproliferative disorder (LPD), the whole spectrum of kidney disease in LPD is still unclear, and data on kidney prognosis is scarce.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the renal pathology profiles from January 2010 to December 2021, and 28 patients with B-cell LPD combined with intact renal biopsy data were included.

Results

There were 20 men and eight women aging 41 to 79 years at the time of renal biopsy (median age 62 years). According to hematological diagnosis, patients were classified into four groups: chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) (group1, n=7), Waldenström macroglobulinemia/lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (WM/LPL) (group 2, n=8; WM, n=6; LPL, n=2), Other non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (NHL) (group3, n=7; diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), n=2; mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, n=4; Low grade B-cell lymphoma, n=1), and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance/monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (MGUS/MGRS) (group 4, n=6). Median serum creatinine (Scr) level was 129 (range,59-956) umol/L. Eight patients (29%) were presented with acute kidney injury (AKI), and five patients (18%) required hemodialysis upon admission. Twenty-three patients (82%) presented with proteinuria (median protein excretion, 2.14 g/d), 11(39%) of whom had the nephrotic syndrome. Interstitial malignant infiltration was the most frequent renal lesion (n=6). Eight patients underwent immunohistochemistry of renal tissues, of which three patients (CLL, n=1; LPL, n=1; WM, n=1) had confirmed lymphoma infiltrates, and the infiltrating cells in the remaining five patients (CLL, n=1; MALT lymphoma, n=2; MGUS, n=2) were considered unrelated to lymphoma. The most common glomerular diseases were renal amyloidosis (n=4) and membranous nephropathy (n=4). Only 20 patients were treated, 13 of whom were treated with rituximab separately or in combination. The median follow-up time was 11 months. Of these, six had achieved hematological response, complete response in five cases. Eight had achieved renal response. At the end-of-study visit, four patients died and two progressed to end stage kidney disease (ESKD).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the clinicopathological spectrum of renal involvement in BLPD is diverse. Renal biopsy and immunohistochemistry are required for early diagnosis and prognostic assessment.
Immune Effects of Macrophages in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Bibliometric Analysis From 2000 to 2021
Authors: Xu YunLing , Zhang Zhongmin , He Jiaolong , Chen Zhenxing
Published: September 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease characterized by macrophage activation. The current characteristics, hotspots, and research frontiers of macrophage-related RA were analyzed using bibliometric analysis. Relatedpapers published from 2000 to 2021 in the Web of Science database were retrieved. The diagrams were generated and analyzed using the bibliometric software package. VOSviewer and CiteSpace were used to evaluate and visualize the research trends and hotspots in macrophage-related RA. A total of 7253 original articles were obtained. Global research on macrophage-related RA is in an advanced stage of development, with core authors, teams and research institutions emerging. United States has published the most papers, received the most citations, and had the highest H-index over the last 22 years. The University of Amsterdam and the journal of Arthritis and Rheumatism are the most productive research institutions and journals. Tak PP’s (St Vincent’s Hospital) paper has the highest publication and citation scores. The keywords “bone loss” and “polarization” have the highest frequency. Additionally, the study of macrophage polarization in RA has been research focus in recent years. This study demonstrates that research on macrophages in RA will continue. China is a significant producer, whereas the United States is an influential nation in this regard. In the last decade, most studies have concentrated on fundamental research. Recent studies have shown how macrophages play a role in controlling and weakening inflammation, and drug delivery and mechanism have come to the fore.