bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medium-term forecast of Ukraine’s balance of payments and sources of its deficits financing
Authors: Bogdan Tetiana ,   Project “Ukraine's Foreign Financing Needs and the EU's Role in Restoring Long-Term Growth of the Ukrainian Economy”
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Since the beginning of the russian large-scale war external viability of Ukrainian economy was jeopardized by dramatic trade deficits and destructions of export capacities, loss of access to the international capital market and outflow of domestic capital into foreign currencies, as well as significant reliance of public finances on unstable official funding. Problem Statement. Maintaining external sustainability of Ukraine’s economy highlight the importance of elaboration of the balance of payment (BoP) forecasts and identification on their basis of the Ukrainian external financing needs. Purpose – development of the methodological approaches to medium-term forecasting of Ukrainian BoP, projection of the BoP’s aggregates and constituents through 2024-2027, estimating evolving external gaps and foreign financing needs (in particular, official concessional financing), that will provide well-justified arguments for policy dialogue with international partners. Methods. General and special scientific methods are used: analysis and synthesis, description and comparison, historical method, method of generalization, abstract and logical method, quantitative forecasting methods, simulations, multiple regression models and functional dependencies. Results. Author reviews the available methodological approaches for BoP forecasting and specifies multiple regression models for estimating the volumes of Ukraine’s exports and imports. Predicting the values of exogenous variables (comprised in these models) allowed estimation of the exports and imports through 2024-2027. Author identifies the significant factors explaining the behavior of the major components of the current account and forecasts their medium-term developments. Important determinants and quantitive estimates/ projections of the financial account constituents are also suggested. In the framework of medium-term scenario external official financing needs are calculated as a sum of projected current account balance without official grants and financial account balance without exceptional financing. Conclusions. As a result of modelling and forecasting undertakings for BoP indicators we arrived at Ukraine’s financing needs estimates, that approach 39.2 bn USD in 2024, 33.2 bn in 2025, 24.4 bn in 2026 and 20.6 bn in 2027. Discrepancy between exceptional official financing in our forecast and that one in the IMF financing plan amount to 27.3 bn USD spanned over 2025-2027. Such discrepancy might be countervailed by higher contributions from the EU via Ukraine Facility, larger own resources, pledged for Ukraine by the World bank and enhanced commitments from the bilateral donors, including grant financing.
Transparent budgets as a prerequisite for effective control of public finances in the conditions of decentralization processes in Ukraine
Authors: Yushko Serhii ,   Kharkiv National University of Economics named after Simon Kuznets
Published: July 2024

Introduction. The implementation of the decentralization reform in Ukraine led to an increase in public interest in the indicators laid down in the budgets of territorial communities and the results of their execution. Problem Statement. Availability and openness of information about budgets as a prerequisite for effective control over public finances of territorial communities. Purpose. Analysis of legal acts that establish requirements for disclosure of information about local budgets, providing recommendations for ensuring compliance in practice with the principle of publicity and transparency of the budget process as an important prerequisite for effective control over public finances. Methods. General scientific methods are used, namely: description, comparison, monographic, theoretical generalization. Results. The legal documents regulating the implementation of the principle of publicity and transparency of the budget process in Ukraine are analyzed, the contradictory and ambiguous norms contained in such documents are outlined, the mistakes made by the authorized persons of local councils when disclosing information about budgets are emphasized, the possibilities that provided by the state web portal Open budget, methods of raising the state of awareness of interested persons on issues of budget formation and execution are substantiated. Conclusions. Part of the public data on issues of formation and execution of budgets of territorial communities still remains inaccessible to information users. Increasing the transparency of budgets with the creation of opportunities for full-fledged control of public funds will become possible under the condition of legislative consolidation of norms on the obligation of managers to publish information on budget and financial reporting on the execution of local budgets within the terms and according to the forms approved by the current orders of the Ministry of Finance of Ukraine, disclosure of information on budget expenditures and lending operations, grouped, among other things, by departmental classification, which will be a prerequisite for researchers to have a holistic view of spending budget funds. Public information about budget indicators on the websites of local councils should be systematized, submitted in formats that allow further processing of the published data with the possibility of simple and unlimited access to them.
Tween 80™-induced changes in fatty acid profile of selected mesophilic lactobacilli
Authors: Zaręba Dorota , Ziarno Małgorzata
Published: July 2024

Fatty acid profiles are crucial for the functionality and viability of lactobacilli used in food applications. Tween 80™, a common culture media additive, is known to influence bacterial growth and composition. This study investigated how Tween 80™ supplementation impacts the fatty acid profiles of six mesophilic lactobacilli strains (Lacticaseibacillus spp., Limosilactobacillus spp., Lactiplantibacillus plantarum). Analysis of eleven strains revealed 29 distinct fatty acids. Tween 80™ supplementation significantly altered their fatty acid composition. Notably, there was a shift towards saturated fatty acids and changes within the unsaturated fatty acid profile. While some unsaturated fatty acids decreased, there was a concurrent rise in cyclic derivatives like lactobacillic acid (derived from vaccenic acid) and dihydrosterculic acid (derived from oleic acid). This suggests that despite the presence of Tween 80™ as an oleic acid source, lactobacilli prioritize the synthesis of these cyclic derivatives from precursor unsaturated fatty acids. Myristic acid and dihydrosterculic acid levels varied across strains. Interestingly, palmitic acid content increased, potentially reflecting enhanced incorporation of oleic acid from Tween 80™ into membranes. Conversely, cis-vaccenic acid levels consistently decreased across all strains. The observed fatty acid profiles differed from previous studies, likely due to a combination of factors including strain-specific variations and growth condition differences (media type, temperature, harvesting point). However, this study highlights the consistent impact of Tween 80™ on the fatty acid composition of lactobacilli, regardless of these variations. In conclusion, Tween 80™ significantly alters fatty acid profiles, influencing saturation levels and specific fatty acid proportions. This work reveals key factors, including stimulated synthesis of lactobacillic acid, competition for oleic acid incorporation, and strain-specific responses to myristic and dihydrosterculic acids. The consistent reduction in cis-vaccenic acid and the presence of cyclic derivatives warrant further investigation to elucidate their roles in response to Tween 80™ supplementation.
Mechanism of LncRNA Gm2044 in germ cell development
Authors: Zhu Qinran , Sun Junpei , An Chuangchuang , Li Xin , Xu Shumin , He Yutong , Zhang Xinyi , Liu Lei , Hu Ke , Liang Meng
Published: July 2024

Germ cell development in mammals is a complex physiological process that involves the proliferation of primordial germ cells, meiosis, and the formation of male and female gametes. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is a type of RNA with more than 200 nucleotides that does not code for proteins. A small number of lncRNAs have been shown to participate in spermatogenesis in the testes and in follicular development in the ovaries, but the role of the vast majority of lncRNAs and their molecular mechanisms still need further study. LncRNA Gm2044 was identified as a differentially expressed lncRNA in mouse spermatogenesis by microarray technology. In mouse testis, lncRNA Gm2044 can act as competing endogenous RNA to regulate SYCP1 expression in GC-2 cells derived from mouse spermatocyte cells, and it can also act as a host gene for miR-202 to regulate RBFOX2 protein expression. In female mouse ovaries, lncRNA Gm2044 regulates 17β-estradiol synthesis through the miRNA-138-5p-Nr5a1 pathway or by interacting with EEF2. In addition, studies suggest that lncRNA Gm2044 is also involved in the progression of reproductive system diseases such as male nonobstructive azoospermia. Here, we summarize the roles and molecular mechanisms of lncRNA Gm2044 in male and female gametogenesis and its potential role in some infertility disorders.
Molecular characteristics and evaluation of the phenotypic detection of carbapenemases among Enterobacterales and Pseudomonas via whole genome sequencing
Authors: Liang Bingshao , Chen Yuou , Liang Zhuwei , Li Xueying , Cai Hao , Lai Hanyu , Zhong Huamin , Xie Yongqiang , Huang Lianfen , Gao Fei , Long Yan
Published: July 2024

Background/purpose(s)

The continuously increasing carbapenem resistance within Enterobacterales and Pseudomonas poses a threat to public health, nevertheless, the molecular characteristics of which in southern China still remain limited. And carbapenemase identification is a key factor in effective early therapy of carbapenem-resistant bacteria infections. We aimed to determine the molecular characteristics of these pathogens and compare commercial combined disc tests (CDTs) with the modified carbapenem inactivation method (mCIM) and EDTA-CIM (eCIM) in detecting and distinguishing carbapenemases using whole genome sequencing (WGS).

Methods

A total of 78 Enterobacterales, 30 Pseudomonas were obtained from two tertiary hospitals in southern China. Susceptibility tests were conducted using an automated VITEK2 compact system with confirmation via the Kirby–Bauer method. The WGS was conducted on all clinical isolates and the molecular characteristics were analyzed by screening the whole genome sequences. CDTs with or without cloxacillin, mCIM, and eCIM, were performed and compared by taking WGS results as the benchmark.

Results

A total of 103 carbapenem non-susceptible and 5 carbapenem susceptible bacteria were determined, with Klebsiella pneumoniae (42.7%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (23.3%) and Escherichia coli (18.4%) being most prevalent. Carbapenemase genes were detected in 58 (56.3%) of the 103 carbapenem-non-susceptible clinical isolates, including 46 NDM, 6 KPC, 3 IMP, 1 IPM+VIM,1NDM+KPC, and 1 OXA-181. Carbapenemase-producing isolates were detected more frequently in Enterobacterales (76.3%). Among K. pneumoniae, the major sequence types were st307 and st11, while among E. coli and P. aeruginosa, the most prevalent ones were st410 and st242 respectively. For carbapenemase detection in Enterobacterales, the mCIM method achieved 100.00% (95% CI, 92.13–100.00%) sensitivity and 94.44% (70.63–99.71%) specificity (kappa, 0.96); for Pseudomonas, detection sensitivity was 100% (5.46–100.00%), and 100% (84.50–100.00%) specificity (kappa, 0.65). Commercial CDT carbapenemase detection sensitivity for Enterobacterales was 96.49% (86.84–99.39%), and 95.24% (74.13–99.75%) specificity (kappa, 0.90); for Pseudomonas, carbapenemase detection sensitivity was 100.00% (5.46–100.00%) and 37.93% (21.30–57.64%) specificity (kappa, 0.04). When cloxacillin testing was added, CDT specificity reached 84.61% (64.27–94.95%).

Conclusion

The molecular epidemiology of carbapenem-non-susceptible isolates from pediatric patients in Southern China exhibited distinctive characteristics. Both the mCIM–eCIM combination and CDT methods effectively detected and differentiated carbapenemases among Enterobacterales isolates, and the former performed better than CDT among Pseudomonas.
Repairing gut barrier by traditional Chinese medicine: roles of gut microbiota
Authors: Zhou Yaochuan , Zhang Dandan , Cheng Hao , Wu Jinlu , Liu Juan , Feng Wuwen , Peng Cheng
Published: July 2024

Gut barrier is not only part of the digestive organ but also an important immunological organ for the hosts. The disruption of gut barrier can lead to various diseases such as obesity and colitis. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has gained much attention for its rich clinical experiences enriched in thousands of years. After orally taken, TCM can interplay with gut microbiota. On one hand, TCM can modulate the composition and function of gut microbiota. On the other hand, gut microbiota can transform TCM compounds. The gut microbiota metabolites produced during the actions of these interplays exert noticeable pharmacological effects on the host especially gut barrier. Recently, a large number of studies have investigated the repairing and fortifying effects of TCM on gut barriers from the perspective of gut microbiota and its metabolites. However, no review has summarized the mechanism behand this beneficiary effects of TCM. In this review, we first briefly introduce the unique structure and specific function of gut barrier. Then, we summarize the interactions and relationship amidst gut microbiota, gut microbiota metabolites and TCM. Further, we summarize the regulative effects and mechanisms of TCM on gut barrier including physical barrier, chemical barrier, immunological barrier, and microbial barrier. At last, we discuss the effects of TCM on diseases that are associated gut barrier destruction such as ulcerative colitis and type 2 diabetes. Our review can provide insights into TCM, gut barrier and gut microbiota.
Antimicrobial resistance genes harbored in invasive Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii complex isolated from Korean children during the pre-COVID-19 pandemic periods, 2015–2020
Authors: Kang Hyun Mi , Kim Kyung Ran , Kim Gahee , Lee Dong-gun , Kim Yae Jean , Choi Eun Hwa , Lee Jina , Yun Ki Wook
Published: July 2024

Background

Acinetobacter baumannii (AB) has emerged as one of the most challenging pathogens worldwide, causing invasive infections in the critically ill patients due to their ability to rapidly acquire resistance to antibiotics. This study aimed to analyze antibiotic resistance genes harbored in AB and non-baumannii Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii (NB-ACB) complex causing invasive diseases in Korean children.

Methods

ACB complexes isolated from sterile body fluid of children in three referral hospitals were prospectively collected. Colistin susceptibility was additionally tested via broth microdilution. Whole genome sequencing was performed and antibiotic resistance genes were analyzed.

Results

During January 2015 to December 2020, a total of 67 ACB complexes were isolated from sterile body fluid of children in three referral hospitals. The median age of the patients was 0.6 (interquartile range, 0.1–7.2) years old. Among all the isolates, 73.1% (n=49) were confirmed as AB and others as NB-ACB complex by whole genome sequencing. Among the AB isolates, only 22.4% susceptible to carbapenem. In particular, all clonal complex (CC) 92 AB (n=33) showed multi-drug resistance, whereas 31.3% in non-CC92 AB (n=16) (P<0.001). NB-ACB showed 100% susceptibility to all classes of antibiotics except 3rd generation cephalosporin (72.2%). The main mechanism of carbapenem resistance in AB was the blaoxa23 gene with ISAba1 insertion sequence upstream. Presence of pmr gene and/or mutation of lpxA/C gene were not correlated with the phenotype of colistin resistance of ACB. All AB and NB-ACB isolates carried the abe and ade multidrug efflux pumps.

Conclusions

In conclusion, monitoring and research for resistome in ACB complex is needed to identify and manage drug-resistant AB, particularly CC92 AB carrying the blaoxa23 gene.
Socio-economic implications of forest-based biofuels for marine transportation in the Arctic: Sweden as a case study
Authors: Yacout Dalia M. M. , Tysklind Mats , Upadhyayula Venkata K. K.
Published: July 2024

Arctic melting is an effect of climate change; the use of fossil fuels in marine shipping emits large amounts of air emissions that impact climate change, and Arctic aquatic and human life. Swedish pulp and paper mills generate large amounts of waste and side streams that could be utilized. The production of forest-based biofuel may be a promising solution to achieve sustainable Arctic marine shipping. This review highlights the socio-economic impacts associated with the production of forest-based biofuel in Sweden, the related opportunities, challenges, knowledge gaps, and further need of research. From the economic perspective, it was found that the production and use of forest-based biofuel have short and long-term economic sustainability benefits: (a) short-term benefits, the use of the waste and side streams of the pulp and paper industry is a low-cost available feedstock, unlike first-generation biofuel from crops like corn forest-based biofuels neither require additional land use, water resources nor compete with food. (b) Long-term benefits: (i) the Swedish shipping sector depends on imported fossil fuels, these new biofuels can replace partly those imported fossil fuels that will reduce shipping costs, and generate economic benefits for local consumers. (ii) Usage of forest-based biofuels as blends with conventional fuels in existing engines will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the Arctic shipping to the set limits in the region. (iii) One of the important socio-economic impacts of forest-based biofuel production and use is the new job creation and employment opportunities that will impact the local communities and livelihoods of indigenous people in the area. From a societal perspective, stakeholder involvement is essential to address the sustainability challenges of biofuel production: EU policymakers need to encourage the production and use of biofuels by developing policies that promote biofuel use. Further studies are needed to develop more efficient and low-cost biofuel production routes, more investments in related research and development are required as well. Local indigenous communities must be involved in the decision-making process through surveys, local dialogues, and research studies. The production of forest-based biofuels has great potential and many social-economic impacts alongside the environmental benefits.
A rapid assessment methodology for quantifying and visualizing functional landscape connectivity
Authors: Schumaker Nathan H.
Published: July 2024

Context

The number of publications that evaluate or use landscape connectivity has grown dramatically in recent years. But the biological realism of common connectivity assessments remains limited. To address this shortcoming, I introduce a flexible methodology for evaluating functional landscape connectivity that can be quick to implement, biologically nuanced, and straightforward to interpret.

Methods

I combined a US Fish and Wildlife Service land cover map with information from existing empirical studies to develop a movement simulator for the Fender’s blue butterfly, an endangered species in Oregon, USA. I use the resulting butterfly model to explore the concepts and mechanics behind my novel connectivity assessment methodology.

Results

My methods are able to identify clusters of connected resource patches, quantify and visualize movement rates between patches, and identify opportunities for enhancing connectivity through restoration and mitigation. My results include an emergent dispersal kernel that captures the influence of movement behavior on connectivity.

Discussion

The methods I introduce are capable of generating detailed yet practical connectivity analyses that can incorporate considerable biological and behavioral realism. My approach is simple to implement, and the requisite data can be modest. The toolkit I developed has the potential to standardize connectivity assessments that use either real or simulated movement data.
Efficacy and safety of azilsartan medoxomil in the treatment of hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Ling , Wei Guo-Cui , Xiao Qing , Chen Qian-Lan , Zhao Qian , Li Xiu-xia , Pan Ling-ai , Xiong Xuan
Published: July 2024

Background

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are utilized for the management of hypertension and diabetes. Previous meta-analyses suggested that azilsartan medoxomil (AZL-M) improved blood pressure (BP) reduction, but there were no safety findings or suggestions for patients with hypertension or diabetes.

Methods

We performed an efficacy and safety meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating AZL-M therapy for reducing BP in patients with hypertension. Patients with hypertension complicated by diabetes were analyzed. The relevant literature was searched in English and Chinese databases for RCTs involving AZL-M in hypertension. Efficacy variables included the change from baseline in the 24-h mean systolic/diastolic BP measured by ambulatory BP monitoring, the change from baseline in clinic systolic/diastolic BP, and responder rates. Safety variables included total adverse events (AEs), serious AEs, AEs leading to discontinuation, and AEs related to the study drug. The raw data from the included studies were utilized to calculate the odds ratio (OR) for dichotomous data and the mean difference (MD) for continuous data, accompanied by 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical analysis was performed using R software.

Results

A total of 11 RCTs met the inclusion criteria, representing 7,608 patients, 5 of whom had diabetes. Pooled analysis suggested a reduction in BP among patients randomized to 40 mg of AZL-M vs. control therapy [24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) (MD: −2.85 mmHg), clinic SBP (MD: −3.48 mmHg), and clinic diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (MD: −1.96 mmHg)] and for 80 mg of AZL-M vs. control therapy [24-h ABPM mean SBP (MD: −3.59 mmHg), 24-h ABPM mean DBP (MD: −2.62 mmHg), clinic SBP (MD: −4.42 mmHg), clinic DBP (MD: −3.09 mmHg), and responder rate (OR: 1.46)]. There was no difference in the reduction of risks, except for dizziness (OR: 1.56) in the 80-mg AZL-M group or urinary tract infection (OR: 1.82) in the 40-mg AZL-M group. Analysis of patients with diabetes revealed that AZL-M can provide superior management, while safety and tolerability were similar to those of control therapy.

Conclusions

AZL-M appears to reduce BP to a greater extent than dose-control therapy and does not increase the risk of adverse events in patients with hypertension and diabetes compared with placebo.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=464284, identifier PROSPERO CRD42023464284.
Tracking the spatial patterns and thematic dynamics of GRACE satellite application over the last 20 years (2002–2022)
Authors: Zhang Hongyue
Published: July 2024

The GRACE (Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment) satellite, operational from its launch in 2002 until October 2017, documented critical changes in global terrestrial water storage, significantly advancing the fields of gravity field analysis, hydrological variations, and environmental monitoring. This study investigates the thematic evolution of 2,966 SCIE-indexed publications on GRACE satellite applications from 2002 to 2022, utilizing co-occurrence network mapping and complex network analysis. Our results indicate a steady growth in GRACE satellite application research, with early publications (2002–2004) achieving an average citation rate exceeding 100, underscoring their substantial impact. Keyword clustering identified four primary research themes: Hydrology and Water Resources, Atmospheric and Environmental Science, Geophysical and Temporal Analysis, and Polar and Glaciological Studies. Over time, these themes have expanded and deepened, transitioning from initial focuses on gravity field computations to hydrological applications, sea level studies, and more specific investigations into water resources, climate change, and advancements in satellite geodesy. Recent research has particularly concentrated on groundwater and water storage issues. Geographically, the United States leads in publication output, impact, and international collaborations, with China following in publication count and network centrality, albeit with potential for improved impact. European countries demonstrate significant influence and centrality within the cooperation network. The evolution index of the international cooperation network shows a significant increase in connectivity from 2002 to 2022, with closer cooperation between countries. There is notable growth in both the number and intensity of collaborations, as evidenced by the rising average degree and average weighted degree. Overall, these indices underscore the evolution towards a more connected and globally integrated research network in GRACE satellite research. Looking forward, technological advancements, enhanced international collaboration, and integration with other data sources will drive future research in GRACE satellite application research, with important implications for addressing global environmental and climate challenges.
Subgrade uplift prediction along a high-speed railway using machine learning techniques in Sichuan, China
Authors: Yan Hongyi , Zhao Xiaoyan , Jian Liming , Long Ruixin , Xiao Dian , Chen Minghao
Published: July 2024

In the red-bed areas of southwestern China, subgrade uplift deformation poses a serious safety concern for high-speed trains. However, the subgrade uplift mechanisms are still not well-defined, and there is a lack of effective prediction methods for addressing this issue. The objective of this study is to build prediction model of subgrade uplift using three machine learning techniques (MLTs): artificial neural network (ANN), random forest (RF), and support vector machine (SVM). The Chengdu-Chongqing passenger dedicated line (CCPDL) was selected as the research object, and a total of 200 cuttings along the CCPDL were randomly divided into two groups: a training set (70%) and a testing set (30%). The subgrade uplift mechanism was concluded by conducting the laboratory test, field investigation and mathematical statistics. Then six subgrade uplift-conditioning factors were identified, including subgrade excavation height, subgrade excavation width, dip angle, interbedded characteristics between sandstone and mudstone, mudstone rheology, and mudstone swelling. To assess the model performance, various evaluation metrics were employed, including receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), area under the curve (AUC), accuracy, precision, recall, specificity, and F-1 score. The results demonstrate that the RF model outperforms the other MLTs in predicting subgrade uplift. Notably, among the six factors considered, subgrade excavation height was identified as the most influential factor. These findings provide valuable insights into the prediction of subgrade uplift and offer guidance for mitigating the risks associated with subgrade uplift during the construction of high-speed railways.
Inversion of mining-induced stress field based on focal mechanism solutions: a case study of the 63upper06 working face in Dongtan Coal Mine
Authors: Yan Xianyang , Xu Rui , Zhan Kai , Wen Xiaotao , Wang Cong , Li Zhenguo , Zhang Quan
Published: July 2024

Microseismic monitoring is pivotal for mine safety, offering early warnings for coal mining operations. By introducing the MTfit and MSATSI inversion methods to study the focal mechanisms of microseismic events and the stress field in coal mines, we applied these techniques for the first time to the 63upper06 working face in the Dongtan Coal Mine. We selected 107 high-quality microseismic events during the mining process and used MTfit to invert their focal mechanisms. Moreover, we used MSATSI to determine the direction of the maximum horizontal principal compressive stress in the region. This allowed us to establish a connection between mining activities, focal mechanisms, and rock strata fractures. Results show the predominance of normal and reverse faulting with significant CLVD components, underlining tensile and compressive failures as dominant in the mine’s seismicity. Further, the study subdivides the research area into three subregions for detailed stress analysis: Subregion 1 is located below the working face with a maximum principal stress of 20.3 MPa, oriented between N60°E and N75°E; Subregion 2 is above the working face and exhibits more complex stress conditions with a maximum principal stress of 30.1 MPa; and Subregion 3 is situated at the roof’s right side of the working face, with a maximum principal stress of 20.3 MPa, oriented at 30°northwest. It provides an important reference for seismic risk assessment and disaster prevention and control during mining.
Discussion of deep–seated structures as plumbing systems of hydrothermal minerals using gravity and magnetic data from the West Qinling Orogenic Belt
Authors: Fan Zhenyu , Xiong Shengqing , Yang Hai , Fan Zhengguo , Li Fang , Ge Tengfei , He Jingzi , Jia Zhiye
Published: July 2024

The West Qinling Orogenic Belt (WQOB) in central China records the tectonic evolution and deep geodynamics process associated with plate collision on the northeastern margin of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. The study of the deep–seated West Qinling structure is beneficial for revealing the evolution of the West Qinling crust during the continental collision orogeny, and also has significance for mineral exploration. In this study, the crustal structure and the distribution of major faults in the West Qinling Orogen are calculated by processing geophysical aeromagnetic and ground gravity data. The density and magnetic susceptibility differences between the West Qinling crust and the upper mantle are calculated by fitting, and the depth and trend of the faults related are inferred from the gravity and magnetic inversion results. Due to the overall subduction of the lower crust of the Ruoergai to the West Qinling Orogenic Belt, the structural deformation within the West Qinling is strong, and the geophysical magnetic field and gravity field are suddenly changed. It is indicated that the formation of the Diebu–Sanhe fault may have a strong correlation with the Mianlue suture zone, and their intersection may penetrate into the lower crust at a depth of about 50 km or more. The West Qinling structure represents important conduits for migrating magmatic–derived hydrothermal fluids. During the continental collision, the West Qinling major faults provided hydrothermal migration channels for ore–forming materials in different tectonic periods. Meanwhile, multiple the geological activities led to the formation of mineral deposits related to magmatic hydrothermal fluids.
In-situ geological conditions and their controls on permeability of coalbed methane reservoirs in the eastern Ordos Basin
Authors: Zhang Yan , Liu Jincheng
Published: July 2024

The eastern Ordos Basin plays an important role in China’s coalbed methane (CBM) industry, boasting considerable CBM resources and pronounced reservoir heterogeneity, making it an ideal site for comparative research on deep and shallow CBM geology. In order to dissect the fundamental reasons for significant differences in production capacity between blocks and promote mutual learning from successful development experiences, this paper conducts a systematical study on the distribution characteristics of in-situ geological conditions of CBM reservoirs based on extensive well-testing data. Additionally, through coal permeability sensitivity experiments on coal samples with various Ro,max values, burial depths, and initial permeabilities, this study explores the change law of permeability during the process of CBM extraction. The results indicate that as the burial depth of coal seam increases, so do the temperature, pressure, and stress. Moreover, the distribution of geothermal gradient, reservoir pressure gradient, horizontal stress gradient, and lateral pressure coefficient tends to converge with increasing burial depth, with a turning depth typically between 1,000 and 1,500 m. Coal seams below 1,500 m generally exhibit a normal-fault type stress field with normal-overpressure. In-situ permeability decreases with depth, but the permeability in deep stress relief zones can be maintained at a relatively high level. A lower initial permeability corresponds to a smaller stress sensitivity coefficient and reduced temperature sensitivity effects, resulting in slower permeability damage during CBM extraction. However, when the reservoir pressure drops to depletion pressure, the maximum damage rate of permeability increases significantly, underscoring the importance of reservoir reconstruction in deep CBM development. This study provides a theoretical basis for selecting favorable areas for CBM exploration and development, as well as for designing efficient development plans in practice.
Association between gut microbiota and diabetic nephropathy: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ye Zhitao , So Tikyeung , Zhang Tianyou , Gao Xia
Published: July 2024

Background

To clarify the causal relationship between gut microbiota and diabetic nephropathy (DN), we employed Mendelian randomization (MR). Despite a strong correlation observed, establishing causality is still unclear. By utilizing MR, we aimed to investigate this relationship further and shed light on the potential causal effect of gut microbiota on DN.

Methods

Genetic instrumental variables for gut microbiota were obtained from a GWAS with 18340 participants. DN summary statistics (1032 cases, 451248 controls) were sourced from a separate GWAS. The primary analysis used the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method. Reverse MR analysis was conducted to explore reverse causation. Rigorous sensitivity analyses were performed to ensure the resilience and reliability of the study’s findings.

Results

We found two bacterial traits associated with an increased risk of DN: genus LachnospiraceaeUCG008 (OR: 1.4210; 95% CI: 1.0450, 1.9322; p = 0.0250) and genus Terrisporobacter (OR: 1.9716; 95% CI: 1.2040, 3.2285; p = 0.0070). Additionally, phylum Proteobacteria (OR: 0.4394; 95% CI: 0.2721, 0.7096; p = 0.0008) and genus Dialister (OR: 0.4841; 95% CI: 0.3171, 0.7390; p = 0.0008) were protective against DN. Sensitivity analyses consistently supported these results. In the reverse MR analysis, no statistically significant associations were observed between DN and these four bacterial traits.

Conclusions

Our analyses confirmed a potential causal relationship between certain gut microbiota taxa and the risk of DN. However, additional studies are required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms through which gut microbiota influences the development of DN.
Causal impact of human blood metabolites and metabolic pathways on serum uric acid and gout: a mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhong Yan , Yang ChengAn , Zhang BingHua , Chen YingWen , Cai WenJun , Wang GuoChen , Zhao ChangWei , Zhao WenHai
Published: July 2024

Objective

Hyperuricaemia and gout are common metabolic disorders. However, the causal relationships between blood metabolites and serum urate levels, as well as gout, remain unclear. A systematic evaluation of the causal connections between blood metabolites, hyperuricemia, and gout could enhance early screening and prevention of hyperuricemia and gout in clinical settings, providing novel insights and approaches for clinical treatment.

Methods

In this study, we employed a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis utilizing data from a genome-wide association study involving 7,286 participants, encompassing 486 blood metabolites. Serum urate and gout data were sourced from the Chronic Kidney Disease Genetics consortium, including 288,649 participants for serum urate and 9,819 African American and 753,994 European individuals for gout. Initially, LDSC methodology was applied to identify blood metabolites with a genetic relationship to serum urate and gout. Subsequently, inverse-variance weighting was employed as the primary analysis method, with a series of sensitivity and pleiotropy analyses conducted to assess the robustness of the results.

Results

Following LDSC, 133 blood metabolites exhibited a potential genetic relationship with serum urate and gout. In the primary Mendelian randomization analysis using inverse-variance weighting, 19 blood metabolites were recognized as potentially influencing serum urate levels and gout. Subsequently, the IVW p-values of potential metabolites were corrected using the false discovery rate method. We find leucine (IVW P FDR = 0.00004), N-acetylornithine (IVW P FDR = 0.0295), N1-methyl-3-pyridone-4-carboxamide (IVW P FDR = 0.0295), and succinyl carnitine (IVW P FDR = 0.00004) were identified as significant risk factors for elevated serum urate levels. Additionally, 1-oleoylglycerol (IVW P FDR = 0.0007) may lead to a substantial increase in the risk of gout. Succinyl carnitine exhibited acceptable weak heterogeneity, and the results for other blood metabolites remained robust after sensitivity, heterogeneity, and pleiotropy testing. We conducted an enrichment analysis on potential blood metabolites, followed by a metabolic pathway analysis revealing four pathways associated with serum urate levels.

Conclusion

The identified causal relationships between these metabolites and serum urate and gout offer a novel perspective, providing new mechanistic insights into serum urate levels and gout.
Liquid L-T4 therapy in hypothyroid patients with gastric diseases, an observational study
Authors: Fallahi Poupak , Ragusa Francesca , Patrizio Armando , Mazzi Valeria , Botrini Chiara , Elia Giusy , Balestri Eugenia , Barozzi Emilio , Rugani Licia , Palmisano Elena , Cosenza Maria Carla , Varricchi Gilda , Ulisse Salvatore , Benvenga Salvatore , Ferrari Silvia Martina , Antonelli Alessandro
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This is an observational and retrospective study, in which we have analyzed data from patients affected by gastric diseases (p) who have been treated with liquid L-T4 (L-LT4;84 p), or tablet L-T4 (T-LT4;120 p), for the replacement therapy of hypothyroidism. The aim of the study is to compare the stability of TSH [normal range, 0.3-3.5 μIU/ml] in these patients.

Methods

All p assumed L-T4 30 minutes before breakfast. The types of gastric disease were: a) T-LT4 group: 74 chronic gastritis (CG); 4 gastrectomy for gastric cancer (GTx); 42 gastro-plastics (GP); b) L-LT4 group: 60 CG; 3 GTx; 21 GP (p>0.05). 66% p in T-LT4 group were chronically treated with proton pump inhibitors (PPI), against 51% in L-LT4 group (p>0.05). The frequency of Helicobacter Pylori infection was 17% in both T-LT4 and L-LT4 groups. The gender distribution, mean age and body weight were similar in the 2 groups (p>0.05). The mean L-T4 dosage in T-LT4 group at the basal evaluation was 1.22+/-0.27 μg/kg/die, in the L-LT4 group 1.36+/-0.22 μg/kg/die (p>0.05).

Results

At the basal evaluation the prevalence of patients with a TSH>3.5 μIU/mL in T-LT4 group was 36%, in L-LT4 group 46% (p<0.05). After adjustment of the dosage of the LT-4 therapy, the p were re-evaluated in an interval range of 5-9 months, for 4 times, during an overall period ranging from 23 to 31 months. At the first re-evaluation, the prevalence of p with a TSH>3.5 μIU/mL was 13% in both groups. At the second re-evaluation, the prevalence of p with a TSH>3.5 μIU/mL in T-LT4 group was 26%, in L-LT4 group 13% (p>0.05). At the third re-evaluation, the prevalence of p with TSH<3.5 μIU/mL in T-LT4 group was 19%, in L-LT4 group 9% (p=0.05). At the fourth and last re-evaluation, the prevalence of patients with a TSH>3.5 μIU/mL in T-LT4 group was 18%, in L-LT4 group 5% (p<0.05). Mean FT4 and FT3 circulating levels were not significantly different in the two group at each visit.

Discussion

These data suggest that the liquid L-T4 formulation therapy can result in a more stable control of TSH levels in hypothyroid patients with gastric disorders in the long-term follow-up.
Determinants of clinical outcome in patients with moderate/severe Graves' orbitopathy undergoing treatment with parenteral glucocorticoids: a retrospective study
Authors: Le Moli Rosario , Naselli Adriano , Costanzo Gabriele , Piticchio Tommaso , Tumino Dario , Pellegriti Gabriella , Frasca Francesco , Belfiore Antonino
Published: July 2024

Background

Graves' orbitopathy (GO) occurs in approximately 25-40% of patients with Graves' disease (GD). High levels of anti-thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TRAbs), smoking habit, sex, older age, longer duration and amount of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism are well-recognized risk factors for the occurrence, severity and clinical course of GO. Oxidative stress (OX) has recently been shown to play a role in the pathogenesis of GO, and several clinical conditions related to OX have been investigated regarding the presentation and severity of GO.

Aim

We aimed to evaluate the impact of clinical conditions related to oxidative stress on the outcome of intravenous glucocorticoid (ivGCs) therapy in a cohort of patients with active moderate to severe GO (AMS-GOs) treated at a single institution.

Methods

We retrospectively studied a series of patients with AMS-GOs who were treated with ivGCs from January 2013 to May 2022. GO clinical evaluation was performed at baseline and at 6 (W6), 12 (W12) and 24 (W24) weeks after starting ivGCs by the seven-point clinical activity score (CAS) alone and by overall clinical criteria (CI) according to the European Group of Graves' Ophthalmopathy (EUGOGO). Total cholesterol and calculated LDL cholesterol (LDLc), triglyceride, body mass index (BMI), diabetes status, history of hypertension (HoH), smoking status, age and sex were used as covariates for the clinical outcome of GO to ivGCs.

Results and conclusions

LDLc and HoH negatively and independently modulated the response of AMS-GOs to ivGCs. Notably, slightly elevated LDLc levels (> 130 mg/dl) reduced the response of orbital soft tissue to ivGCs, whereas more elevated LDLc levels (from 175 mg/dl to 190 mg/dl) and HoH were associated with poorer clinical response of eye motility and proptosis.
Rapid assessment of distribution network equipment status based on fuzzy decision making
Authors: Qian Wang , Yuquan Li , Xiaohui Wang , Kun Yang , Yang Liu , Zhongyuan Xia , Guangyu Lan , Yunlong Liu , Jiyuan Tang
Published: July 2024

Voltage instability, power imbalance, and unreliability are caused mainly by equipment failure in the distribution system, so it is important to accurately and quickly assess the status of distribution network equipment. However, it is challenging to detect equipment failures, the traditional XGBoost algorithm is unsuitable because some evaluation indices are incompetent to quantify. To address these issues, we propose a fast evaluation method for the state of electrical distribution equipment based on fuzzy decision-making. Firstly, key indices are selected from the multi-source equipment information. Secondly, this paper constructs the mapping between key indices and equipment status scores by combining the fuzzy iterative method and the XGBoost algorithm. Finally, the proposed assessment model is confirmed by using the distribution transformers as an example. The result shows that the proposed multi-source information assessment method can quickly and accurately determine the operation status of electrical distribution equipment, and the proposed method has better accuracy than the traditional method.
Climatic conditions at provenance origin influence growth stability to changes in climate in two major tree species
Authors: Di Fabio Alessandro , Buttò Valentina , Chakraborty Debojyoti , O’Neill Gregory A. , Schueler Silvio , Kreyling Juergen
Published: July 2024

Climate change is expected to outpace the rate at which populations of forest trees can migrate. Hence, in forestry there is growing interest in intervention strategies such as assisted migration to mitigate climate change impacts. However, until now the primary focus when evaluating candidates for assisted migration has been mean or maximum performance. We explore phenotypic plasticity as a potentially new avenue to help maintain the viability of species and populations in the face of climate change. Capitalizing on large, multi-site international provenance trials of four economically and ecologically important forest tree species (Fagus sylvatica, Picea abies, Picea engelmannii, Pinus contorta), we quantify growth stability as the width of the response function relating provenance growth performance and trial site climate. We found significant differences in growth stability among species, with P. engelmannii being considerably more stable than the other three species. Additionally, we found no relationship between growth performance and growth stability of provenances, indicating that there are fast-growing provenances with a broad climate optimum. In two of the four species, provenances’ growth stability showed a significant relationship with the climate of the seed source, the direction of which depends on the species. When taken together with data on growth performance in different climate conditions, a measure of growth stability can improve the choice of species and provenances to minimize future risks in forest restoration and reforestation.
Network-based pharmacology and UHPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap-MS reveal Jinhua Qinggan granule's mechanism in reducing cellular inflammation in COVID-19
Authors: Qian Liping , Zeng Zehua
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2, leading to COVID-19, poses a major global health threat. While specific treatments and vaccines are under development, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has historically been effective against pandemics, including viral pneumonias. Our study explores the efficacy and mechanisms of Jinhua Qinggan Granules (JHQG) in treating COVID-19.

Methods

We analyzed JHQG’s components using UHPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap-MS, identifying 73 compounds. Network pharmacology and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) were used to assess JHQG’s effects on immune cells from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Literature review supported the antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects of JHQG.

Results

JHQG targets were found to interact with immune cells, including neutrophils, monocytes, plasmablasts, and effector T cells, reducing their overactivation in severe COVID-19. JHQG’s modulation of these cells’ activity likely contributes to reduced inflammation and improved clinical outcomes.

Discussion

Our findings provide insights into JHQG's mechanism of action, highlighting its potential in controlling the inflammatory response in COVID-19 patients. The study supports the use of JHQG as a safe and effective treatment for COVID-19 and similar viral infections, leveraging its ability to modulate immune cell activity and reduce inflammation.