bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the impact path of China’s environmental protection investment on green development—based on the perspective of industrial structure upgrading
Authors: Guo Mengyao , Cui Yiniu
Published: January 2024

As a special category of investment, environmental protection investment can provide important funds and technological support for a region, achieve green production, and promote green development. This article uses a benchmark regression model based on panel data from 30 provinces in China from 2007 to 2020 to analyze the impact of environmental protection investment on the level of green development. It specifically examines the effects of urban environmental infrastructure investment, industrial pollution control investment, and completion of environmental protection acceptance projects on the level of green development. It also explores how different regions can make use of environmental protection investment according to local conditions. Additionally, due to the spatial spillover effect of environmental protection investment, this article introduces the spatial Durbin model to study the spillover effects. Furthermore, in order to effectively promote green economic development through environmental protection investment, it is necessary to upgrade the industrial structure. Therefore, this article also uses the mediation effect model to explore the relationship between environmental protection investment, industrial structure upgrading, and the level of green development. The research findings are as follows: 1) environmental protection investment can promote the development of green level; 2) the various components of environmental protection investment have different effects on the level of green development. Urban environmental infrastructure investment has a promoting effect on the level of green economic development, while industrial pollution control investment and completion of environmental protection acceptance projects have a restraining effect; 3) environmental protection investment has a positive spillover effect in spatial terms, promoting the green development of surrounding areas while driving the local green development level; 4) as an important driving force for promoting green economic development, environmental protection investment relies on the support of industrial structure upgrading, and further optimization and upgrading of the industrial structure can achieve green economic development. Based on these findings, this article proposes that each region should increase environmental protection investment, implement the concept of green development, and leverage the positive impact of each component of environmental protection investment on local green development according to local conditions. At the same time, each region should also pay attention to the role of industrial structure upgrading and make rational use of environmental protection investment to promote green development.
Identification and analysis of influencing factors of green mining construction based on DPSIR model and Fuzzy-DEMATEL approach
Authors: Lin Weixing , Wu Pan , Zhao Guoyan
Published: January 2024

Green mining construction (GMC) is a sustainable mining development model with the potential of realizing synergistic development of resources, environment, society, and economy. At present, the green mining strategy has yielded some successes, but there is still a significant gap between theoretical research and practical promotion, owing to the complexity of the green mining system and the diversity of influencing factors. Therefore, in the context of current pressure to normalize environmental protection, how to promote the construction of green mines while taking into account the premise of economic development has become an important issue. Inspired by the form of Drive-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) model, this paper constructs a DPSIR model of the driving mechanism of green mining construction. Using the fuzzy-DEMATEL method, each critical factor and influencing mechanism of GMC is explored, and the network relationship of the critical factors is established. The results show that many factors affect GMC from the perspective of the ecological environment, and 11 critical factors are obtained in varying degrees. Among them, green technology and supervision and long-term mechanism are the most important and influencing factors. Based on the transmission mechanism among these factors, improvement suggestions, and specific strategies are put forward. This research effectively identifies and analyzes the critical factors of GMC from the perspective of driving and response mechanisms, which is helpful to support the construction of ecological civilization and the sustainable development of mining industry.
Financial openness and energy structure transformation
Authors: Jia Xianjun , Xu Wenjing , Wang Kaiyue
Published: January 2024

Energy structure transformation is the only way for China to achieve the “dual carbon” goal, and one of the difficulties faced by energy transformation is financing. In the context of China’s steadily promoting the high-level opening-up of financial industry, this paper uses the panel data of China’s provincial level from 2010 to 2019 to systematically examine the impact of financial opening-up on the transformation of energy structure. The results show that: 1) Financial openness has a significant positive impact on the energy structure transition; 2) In different stages of energy structure transformation, as the main driving force in the initial stage of energy structure transformation is the government’s policy support, with the continuous maturity of energy structure transformation, the impact of financial openness on energy structure transformation gradually increases; 3) With different levels of economic development, the driving effect of financial openness is also different. The lower the level of economic development is, the stronger the driving effect of financial openness on energy structure transformation is due to the lack of financing channels. This paper provides a theoretical basis for China’s energy structure transformation, and also provides rich policy implications for promoting China’s financial industry to open up at a high level.
Factors influencing hikers’ litter behavior in national park in China
Authors: Sun Huazhen , Yang Feifei , Guo Weifeng
Published: January 2024

The implementation of the litter behavior initiative aims to mitigate the generation of litter by hikers within the hiking trails of China’s national park. The present study employed the extended norm activation model (NAM) to examine the determinants of hikers’ intention to engage in litter behavior within the context of Wuyishan national park. This analysis incorporated three supplementary explanatory variables, namely environmental knowledge, connectedness to nature, and pro-environmental behavior in everyday life. Additionally, three control variables were included, namely gender, age, and education. A survey was conducted by researchers at Wuyishan national park, with a sample size of 466 hikers. The data obtained from the survey was analyzed using the statistical technique known as structural equation modeling. The findings indicate that the NAM effectively captured hikers’ litter behavior in national parks. Factors such as hikers’ awareness of consequences, ascription of responsibility, personal norm, environmental knowledge, connectedness to nature, and pro-environmental behavior in everyday life were found to significantly influence hikers’ intention to engage in litter behavior. The influence of age on hikers’ intention was shown to be significant and positive, suggesting that older hikers exhibited a greater willingness to engage in litter behavior compared to younger hikers. In conclusion, the study provided practical recommendations for improving the management of hiker trash and promoting sustainable development inside national parks.
Functional traits and phylogeny jointly regulate the effects of environmental filtering and dispersal limitation on species spatial distribution
Authors: Wang Minghui , Liu Wande , Chen Zhaoquan , Li Shuaifeng , Huang Xiaobo , Hu Zihan , Shang Ruiguang
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Revealing the spatial distribution pattern and formation mechanism of species in a community can provide important clues for community renewal, succession, and diversity maintenance mechanisms.

Methods

In this study, we employed spatial point process modeling to identify and quantify the processes contributing to the spatial distribution of species. Simultaneously, we explored the relationship between functional traits and species spatial distribution characteristics in conjunction with phylogenetic studies.

Results

The results revealed that the LGCP model effectively described all species, indicating that the spatial pattern of species may be influenced by a combination of environmental filtering and dispersal limitation. Disparities in species spatial distribution were elucidated by characterizing functional traits, such as body size and resource conservation. Incorporating phylogenetic information enhanced the predictive capacity of functional traits in explaining species spatial distribution.

Discussion

This study underscores the significance of the joint effects of environmental filtering and dispersal limitation in generating species spatial distribution patterns. Integrating spatial point process models with considerations of functional traits and phylogeny proves to be an effective approach for comprehending the mechanisms governing species combinations.
Polyketide synthases mutation in tuberculosis transmission revealed by whole genomic sequence, China, 2011–2019
Authors: Wang Ting-Ting , Hu Yuan-Long , Li Yi-Fan , Kong Xiang-Long , Li Ya-Meng , Sun Ping-Yi , Wang Da-Xing , Li Ying-Ying , Zhang Yu-Zhen , Han Qi-Lin , Zhu Xue-Han , An Qi-Qi , Liu Li-Li , Liu Yao , Li Huai-Chen
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). Previous studies have primarily focused on the transmissibility of multidrug-resistant (MDR) or extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Mtb. However, variations in virulence across Mtb lineages may also account for differences in transmissibility. In Mtb, polyketide synthase (PKS) genes encode large multifunctional proteins which have been shown to be major mycobacterial virulence factors. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the role of PKS mutations in TB transmission and assess its risk and characteristics.

Methods: Whole genome sequences (WGSs) data from 3,204 Mtb isolates was collected from 2011 to 2019 in China. Whole genome single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) profiles were used for phylogenetic tree analysis. Putative transmission clusters (≤10 SNPs) were identified. To identify the role of PKS mutations in TB transmission, we compared SNPs in the PKS gene region between “clustered isolates” and “non-clustered isolates” in different lineages.

Results: Cluster-associated mutations in ppsA, pks12, and pks13 were identified among different lineage isolates. They were statistically significant among clustered strains, indicating that they may enhance the transmissibility of Mtb.

Conclusion: Overall, this study provides new insights into the function of PKS and its localization in M. tuberculosis. The study found that ppsA, pks12, and pks13 may contribute to disease progression and higher transmission of certain strains. We also discussed the prospective use of mutant ppsA, pks12, and pks13 genes as drug targets.
Unraveling the regulatory network of miRNA expression in Potato Y virus-infected of Nicotiana benthamiana using integrated small RNA and transcriptome sequencing
Authors: Song Hongping , Gao Xinwen , Song Liyun , Jiao Yubing , Shen Lili , Yang Jinguang , Li Changquan , Shang Jun , Wang Hui , Zhang Songbai , Li Ying
Published: January 2024

Potato virus Y (PVY) disease is a global problem that causes significant damage to crop quality and yield. As traditional chemical control methods are ineffective against PVY, it is crucial to explore new control strategies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in plant and animal defense responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. These endogenous miRNAs act as a link between antiviral gene pathways and host immunity. Several miRNAs target plant immune genes and are involved in the virus infection process. In this study, we conducted small RNA sequencing and transcriptome sequencing on healthy and PVY-infected N. benthamiana tissues (roots, stems, and leaves). Through bioinformatics analysis, we predicted potential targets of differentially expressed miRNAs using the N. benthamiana reference genome and the PVY genome. We then compared the identified differentially expressed mRNAs with the predicted target genes to uncover the complex relationships between miRNAs and their targets. This study successfully constructed a miRNA-mRNA network through the joint analysis of Small RNA sequencing and transcriptome sequencing, which unveiled potential miRNA targets and identified potential binding sites of miRNAs on the PVY genome. This miRNA-mRNA regulatory network suggests the involvement of miRNAs in the virus infection process.
Lessons learned from rapid exome sequencing for 575 critically ill patients across the broad spectrum of rare disease
Authors: Marouane Abderrahim , Neveling Kornelia , Deden A. Chantal , van den Heuvel Simone , Zafeiropoulou Dimitra , Castelein Steven , van de Veerdonk Frank , Koolen David A. , Simons Annet , Rodenburg Richard , Westra Dineke , Mensenkamp Arjen R. , de Leeuw Nicole , Ligtenberg Marjolijn , Matthijsse Rene , Pfundt Rolph , Kamsteeg Erik Jan , Brunner Han G. , Gilissen Christian , Feenstra Ilse , de Boode Willem P. , Yntema Helger G. , van Zelst-Stams Wendy A. G. , Nelen Marcel , Vissers Lisenka E. L. M.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Rapid exome sequencing (rES) has become the first-choice genetic test for critically ill patients, mostly neonates, young infants, or fetuses in prenatal care, in time-sensitive situations and when it is expected that the genetic test result may guide clinical decision making. The implementation of rES has revolutionized medicine by enabling timely identification of genetic causes for various rare diseases. The utilization of rES has increasingly been recognized as an essential diagnostic tool for the identification of complex and undiagnosed genetic disorders.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective evaluation of our experiences with rES performed on 575 critically ill patients from various age groups (prenatal to adulthood), over a four-year period (2016–2019). These patients presented with a wide spectrum of rare diseases, including but not limited to neurological disorders, severe combined immune deficiency, and cancer.

Results: During the study period, there was a significant increase in rES referrals, with a rise from a total of two referrals in Q1-2016 to 10 referrals per week in Q4-2019. The median turnaround time (TAT) decreased from 17 to 11 days in the period 2016–2019, with an overall median TAT of 11 days (IQR 8–15 days). The overall diagnostic yield for this cohort was 30.4%, and did not significantly differ between the different age groups (e.g. adults 22.2% vs children 31.0%; p-value 0.35). However, variability in yield was observed between clinical entities: craniofacial anomalies yielded 58.3%, while for three clinical entities (severe combined immune deficiency, aneurysm, and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism) no diagnoses were obtained.

Discussion: Importantly, whereas clinical significance is often only attributed to a conclusive diagnosis, we also observed impact on clinical decision-making for individuals in whom no genetic diagnosis was established. Hence, our experience shows that rES has an important role for patients of all ages and across the broad spectrum of rare diseases to impact clinical outcomes.
Rethinking (local) integration: domains of integration and their durability in Kismayo and Garowe, Somalia
Authors: Bile Ahmed S. , Boeyink Clayton , Ali-Salad Mohamed A. , Lowe Lucy , Mohamoud Said A. , Jama Mahmud Amina
Published: January 2024

Amidst the ever-expanding debates in various academic and policy fields around migrant and refugee integration and local integration, we bring these two concepts in conversation with one another. Until very recently, theories of integration have had a state-centric focus in the Global North. This article expands and complicates this literature to focus on displaced Somalis within Somalia and its borderlands living in the cities of Kismayo and Garowe using mixed qualitative and quantitative methods in five displacement settlements. Toward this end, we use the often- engaged term “domains of integration” to frame integration. In our conceptualization, however, we incorporate the concept of “local integration” as a durable solution. In brief, we see the domains of integration as a productive concept in the Somali context. However, in Somalia, where clans are interwoven into the state, which lacks resources and power, clan affiliation represents social connections domains, yet also influences the state's role in the foundational domain of rights and citizenship and makers and means (employment, housing, education, health). International donors and NGOs, as well as international capitalist urban expansion also have a large role in these processes. As such, we argue that the ten domains of integration (discussed in detail below) intersect and blur to an even greater extent than in European and North American contexts, particularly around crucial issues such as housing, land, and property; a key factor in people's decisions to remain or leave.
Evolutionary trade-offs constraining the MHC gene expansion: beyond simple TCR depletion model
Authors: Migalska Magdalena , Węglarczyk Kazimierz , Dudek Katarzyna , Homa Joanna
Published: January 2024

The immune system is as much shaped by the pressure of pathogens as it is by evolutionary trade-offs that constrain its structure and function. A perfect example comes from the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), molecules that initiate adaptive immune response by presentation of foreign antigens to T cells. The remarkable, population-level polymorphism of MHC genes is assumed to result mainly from a co-evolutionary arms race between hosts and pathogens, while the limited, within-individual number of functional MHC loci is thought to be the consequence of an evolutionary trade-off between enhanced pathogen recognition and excessive T cell depletion during negative selection in the thymus. Certain mathematical models and infection studies suggest that an intermediate individual MHC diversity would thus be optimal. A recent, more direct test of this hypothesis has shown that the effects of MHC diversity on T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoires may differ between MHC classes, supporting the depletion model only for MHC class I. Here, we used the bank vole (Myodes=Cletronomys glareolus), a rodent species with variable numbers of expressed MHC genes, to test how an individual MHC diversity influences the proportions and TCR repertoires of responding T cell subsets. We found a non-linear relationship between MHC diversity and T cell proportions (with intermediate MHC numbers coinciding with the largest T cell proportions), perhaps reflecting an optimality effect of balanced positive and negative thymic selection. The association was strongest for the relationship between MHC class I and splenic CD8+ T cells. The CD8+ TCR richness alone was unaffected by MHC class I diversity, suggesting that MHC class I expansion may be limited by decreasing T cell counts, rather than by direct depletion of TCR richness. In contrast, CD4+ TCR richness was positively correlated with MHC class II diversity, arguing against a universal TCR depletion. It also suggests that different evolutionary forces or trade-offs may limit the within-individual expansion of the MHC class II loci.
Current vaccination status and safety of children with peripheral neuroblastoma in the real-world
Authors: Shen Heping , Xu Yuyang , Zhan Yuxuan , Liu Yan , Zhang Xuechao , Li Mingyan , Ji Chai
Published: January 2024

Background

peripheral neuroblastic tumors (pNT) have high incidence and mortality, and infants are prone to various infectious diseases. The purpose of this study is to understand the immunization status of children with pNT in the real-world and the incidence of adverse reactions after vaccination, and to evaluate the feasibility of vaccination and the influencing factors of vaccination.

Methods

Children with pNT treated in the Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang University from January 1, 2011 to December 1, 2021 were included. By referring to medical records, the vaccination history of the national immunization program (NIP) vaccines and the occurrence of adverse events following immunization(AEFI), current status and safety of immunization in children with pNT in the real-world were analyzed.

Results

Among 784 children with pNT, 394 were able to obtain the history of vaccination. The overall vaccination rate of NIP vaccines was 71.49% before chemotherapy and 37.67% after chemotherapy, and the recovery time of vaccination after treatment was 16.00 (6.00,24.00) months. Age, time of tumor diagnosis and disease classification were significantly correlated with vaccination. AEFI reported an incidence of 0.23‰.

Conclusion

The vaccination rate of children with pNT is generally low, especially the vaccination rate after chemotherapy. The vaccination safety is good, children should be encouraged to immunize.
Identification of the shared genetic architecture underlying seven autoimmune diseases with GWAS summary statistics
Authors: Wang Yuping , Yang Yongli , Jia Xiaocan , Zhao Chenyu , Yang Chaojun , Fan Jingwen , Wang Nana , Shi Xuezhong
Published: January 2024

Background

The common clinical symptoms and immunopathological mechanisms have been observed among multiple autoimmune diseases (ADs), but the shared genetic etiology remains unclear.

Methods

GWAS summary statistics of seven ADs were downloaded from Open Targets Genetics and Dryad. Linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) was applied to estimate overall genetic correlations, bivariate causal mixture model (MiXeR) was used to qualify the polygenic overlap, and stratified-LDSC partitioned heritability to reveal tissue and cell type specific enrichments. Ultimately, we conducted a novel adaptive association test called MTaSPUsSet for identifying pleiotropic genes.

Results

The high heritability of seven ADs ranged from 0.1228 to 0.5972, and strong genetic correlations among certain phenotypes varied between 0.185 and 0.721. There was substantial polygenic overlap, with the number of shared SNPs approximately 0.03K to 0.21K. The specificity of SNP heritability was enriched in the immune/hematopoietic related tissue and cells. Furthermore, we identified 32 pleiotropic genes associated with seven ADs, 23 genes were considered as novel genes. These genes were involved in several cell regulation pathways and immunologic signatures.

Conclusion

We comprehensively explored the shared genetic architecture across seven ADs. The findings progress the exploration of common molecular mechanisms and biological processes involved, and facilitate understanding of disease etiology.
Analyzing the impact of metabolism on immune cells in tumor microenvironment to promote the development of immunotherapy
Authors: Long Yanru , Shi Houhui , He Yuedong , Qi Xiaorong
Published: January 2024

Tumor metabolism and tumor immunity are inextricably linked. Targeting the metabolism of tumors is a point worth studying in tumor immunotherapy. Recently, the influence of the metabolism of tumors and immune cells on the occurrence, proliferation, metastasis, and prognosis of tumors has attracted more attention. Tumor tissue forms a specific tumor microenvironment (TME). In addition to tumor cells, there are also immune cells, stromal cells, and other cells in TME. To adapt to the environment, tumor cells go through the metabolism reprogramming of various substances. The metabolism reprogramming of tumor cells may further affect the formation of the tumor microenvironment and the function of a variety of cells, especially immune cells, eventually promoting tumor development. Therefore, it is necessary to study the metabolism of tumor cells and its effects on immune cells to guide tumor immunotherapy. Inhibiting tumor metabolism may restore immune balance and promote the immune response in tumors. This article will describe glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and immune cells in tumors. Besides, the impact of metabolism on the immune cells in TME is also discussed for analyzing and exploring tumor immunotherapy.
Dissecting tumor microenvironment heterogeneity in syngeneic mouse models: insights on cancer-associated fibroblast phenotypes shaped by infiltrating T cells
Authors: Carretta Marco , Thorseth Marie-Louise , Schina Aimilia , Agardy Dennis Alexander , Johansen Astrid Zedlitz , Baker Kevin James , Khan Shawez , Rømer Anne Mette Askehøj , Fjæstad Klaire Yixin , Linder Hannes , Kuczek Dorota Ewa , Donia Marco , Grøntved Lars , Madsen Daniel Hargbøl
Published: January 2024

Murine syngeneic tumor models have been used extensively for cancer research for several decades and have been instrumental in driving the discovery and development of cancer immunotherapies. These tumor models are very simplistic cancer models, but recent reports have, however, indicated that the different inoculated cancer cell lines can lead to the formation of unique tumor microenvironments (TMEs). To gain more knowledge from studies based on syngeneic tumor models, it is essential to obtain an in-depth understanding of the cellular and molecular composition of the TME in the different models. Additionally, other parameters that are important for cancer progression, such as collagen content and mechanical tissue stiffness across syngeneic tumor models have not previously been reported. Here, we compare the TME of tumors derived from six common syngeneic tumor models. Using flow cytometry and transcriptomic analyses, we show that strikingly unique TMEs are formed by the different cancer cell lines. The differences are reflected as changes in abundance and phenotype of myeloid, lymphoid, and stromal cells in the tumors. Gene expression analyses support the different cellular composition of the TMEs and indicate that distinct immunosuppressive mechanisms are employed depending on the tumor model. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) also acquire very different phenotypes across the tumor models. These differences include differential expression of genes encoding extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and immunosuppressive factors. The gene expression profiles suggest that CAFs can contribute to the formation of an immunosuppressive TME, and flow cytometry analyses show increased PD-L1 expression by CAFs in the immunogenic tumor models, MC38 and CT26. Comparison with CAF subsets identified in other studies shows that CAFs are skewed towards specific subsets depending on the model. In athymic mice lacking tumor-infiltrating cytotoxic T cells, CAFs express lower levels of PD-L1 and lower levels of fibroblast activation markers. Our data underscores that CAFs can be involved in the formation of an immunosuppressive TME.
Improved multivariable algorithms for estimating oceanic particulate organic carbon concentration from optical backscattering and chlorophyll-a measurements
Authors: Koestner Daniel , Stramski Dariusz , Reynolds Rick A.
Published: January 2024

The capability to estimate the oceanic particulate organic carbon concentration (POC) from optical measurements is crucial for assessing the dynamics of this carbon reservoir and the capacity of the biological pump to sequester atmospheric carbon dioxide in the deep ocean. Optical approaches are routinely used to estimate oceanic POC from the spectral particulate backscattering coefficient bbp, either directly (e.g., with backscattering sensors on underwater platforms like BGC-Argo floats) or indirectly (e.g., with satellite remote sensing). However, the reliability of algorithms which relate POC to bbp is typically limited due to the complexity of interactions between light and natural assemblages of marine particles, which depend on variations in particle concentration, composition, and size distribution. This study expands on our previous work by analysis of an extended field dataset created with judicious data inclusion criteria with the aim to provide POC algorithms for multiple light wavelengths of measured bbp, which can be useful for applications with in situ optical sensors as well as above-water active or passive measurement systems. We describe an improved empirical multivariable approach to estimate POC from simultaneous measurements of bbp and chlorophyll-a concentration (Chla) to better account for the effects of variable particle composition on the relationship between POC and bbp. The multivariable regression models are formulated using a relatively large dataset of coincident measurements of POC, bbp, and Chla, including surface and subsurface data from the Atlantic, Pacific, Arctic, and Southern Oceans. We show that the multivariable algorithm provides reduced uncertainty of estimated POC across diverse marine environments when compared with a traditional univariate algorithm based on only bbp. We also propose an improved formulation of univariate algorithm based on bbp alone. Finally, we examine performance of several algorithms to estimate POC using our dataset as well as a dataset consisting of optical measurements from BGC-Argo floats and traditional POC measurements collected during a coincident research cruise in the Atlantic Ocean.
First screening of bacteria assemblages associated with the marine polychaete Melinna palmata Grube, 1870 and adjacent sediments
Authors: Menabit Selma , Lavin Paris , Begun Tatiana , Mureşan Mihaela , Teacă Adrian , Purcarea Cristina
Published: January 2024

Bacteria associated with marine invertebrate play a fundamental role in the biology, ecology, development and evolution of their hosts. Although many studies have been focused on the microbial populations of benthic and pelagic habitats, little is known about bacteria colonizing tube-dwelling polychaete. In this context, the current study provided the first characterization of the Melinna palmata Grube, 1870 microbiome based on Illumina sequencing of 16S rRNA gene of the polychaete tissue and proximate sediments collected from the Black Sea, Romania, along a 24.2 m – 45.4 m depth-gradient. The diversity, taxonomic composition and deduced functional profile of the tissue and sediments associated bacterial communities were compared and analyzed in relation with the environmental parameters. This polychaete harbored a distinct bacterial assemblage as compared to their sediments and independent on the depth of their habitat, including 8 phyla in tissues dominated by Proteobacteria, and 12 phyla in sediments majorly represented by Actinobacteriota, respectively. At order level, Synechococcales, Rhodobacterales and Actinomarinales were highly represented in the M. palmata microbiome, while Microtrichales, Anaerolineales and Caldilineales were mostly found in sediments. A significant correlation was observed between Cyanobacteria taxa and the dissolved oxygen concentrations in shallow waters impacted by the Danube inputs. Meanwhile, this phylum showed a positive correlation with Planctomycetota colonizing the invertebrate tissues, and a negative one with Actinobacteriota and Chloroflexi found in sediments. The deduced functional profile of these bacterial assemblages suggested the prevalence of the amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism for both analyzed matrices. This pioneering report on the M. palmata microbiome highlighted the environment contribution to bacterial species enrichment of the polychaete, and provided a glimpse on the putative role of microbial communities associated with this marine organism.
Impact of circumpolar deep water on organic carbon isotopes and ice-rafted debris in West Antarctic: a case study in the Amundsen Sea
Authors: Lei Ziyan , Ge Qian , Chen Dong , Zhang Yongcong , Han Xibin
Published: January 2024

This research delves into the interaction between carbon isotopes, ice-rafted debris (IRD), and Circumpolar Deep Water (CDW) in the Amundsen Sea, West Antarctic. Utilizing sediment core ANT36-A11-04, we traced the source of the organic matter though an analysis of the total organic carbon (TOC), stable carbon isotopes (δ13Corg), and nitrogen content. We identified six environmental events in this region since the Mid-Holocene, which were discerned through a comparative analysis of the δ13Corg, TOC, and IRD content. These events were closely linked to variations in the intensity of the CDW. Notably, the synchronous occurrence of a negative shift in the δ13Corg value and increases in TOC and IRD highlight the significant impact of CDW intrusion, underlining the pivotal role of the CDW in the regional environmental evolution. Specifically, intensified upwelling of the CDW was correlated with increased heat and nutrients, enhanced glacier melting, phytoplankton blooms, higher TOC content, augmented deposition of IRD, and finally resulted in a negative shift in the δ13Corg value. We present a comprehensive picture of the local environmental evolution in the Amundsen Sea, characterized as a marine-glacial-biological coupling model, thereby contributing to a broader understanding of Antarctic environmental dynamics.
Particulate organic carbon export fluxes across the Seychelles-Chagos thermocline ridge in the western Indian Ocean using 234Th as a tracer
Authors: Seo Junhyeong , Kim Intae , Kang Dong-Jin , Lee Hyunmi , Choi Jin Young , Ra Kongtae , Rho TaeKeun , Park Kyungkyu , Kim Suk Hyun
Published: January 2024

We investigated the export flux of particulate organic carbon (POC) using 234Th as a tracer in the western Indian Ocean along 60°E and 67°E transects in 2017 and 2018. The Seychelles-Chagos Thermocline Ridge (SCTR), where production is relatively high due to nutrient replenishment by upwelling of subsurface water, was observed at 3°S – 12°S in 2017 and 4°S – 13°S both 60°E and 67°E in 2018. POC fluxes in 2017 showed no differences between the SCTR and non-SCTR regions. However, in 2018, the POC fluxes in the SCTR regions (8.52 ± 7.89 mmol C m–2 d–1) were one order of magnitude higher than those observed in the non-SCTR regions (0.63 ± 0.07 mmol C m–2 d–1), which appeared to be related to the strong upwelling of subsurface water. These POC fluxes were comparable to those observed under bloom conditions, and thus, are important for estimating the efficiency of carbon sequestration in the ocean.
Surface ocean warming near the core of hurricane Sam and its representation in forecast models
Authors: Chiodi Andrew M. , Hristova Hristina , Foltz Gregory R. , Zhang Jun A. , Mordy Calvin W. , Edwards Catherine R. , Zhang Chidong , Meinig Christian , Zhang Dongxiao , Mazza Edoardo , Cokelet Edward D. , Burger Eugene F. , Bringas Francis , Goni Gustavo , Kim Hyun-Sook , Chen Sue , Triñanes Joaquin , Bailey Kathleen , O’Brien Kevin M. , Morales-Caez Maria , Lawrence-Slavas Noah , Chen Shuyi S. , Chen Xingchao
Published: January 2024

On September 30, 2021, a saildrone uncrewed surface vehicle intercepted Hurricane Sam in the northwestern tropical Atlantic and provided continuous observations near the eyewall. Measured surface ocean temperature unexpectedly increased during the first half of the storm. Saildrone current shear and upper-ocean structure from the nearest Argo profiles show an initial trapping of wind momentum by a strong halocline in the upper 30 m, followed by deeper mixing and entrainment of warmer subsurface water into the mixed layer. The ocean initial conditions provided to operational forecast models failed to capture the observed upper-ocean structure. The forecast models failed to simulate the warming and developed a surface cold bias of ~0.5°C by the time peak winds were observed, resulting in a 12-17% underestimation of surface enthalpy flux near the eyewall. Results imply that enhanced upper-ocean observations and, critically, improved assimilation into the hurricane forecast systems, could directly benefit hurricane intensity forecasts.
Groundwater salinization under the influence of paleo sea-level fluctuation: a case study in southern Laizhou Bay, China
Authors: Cui Zhen , Chen Guangquan , Chen Shenliang , Yu Hongjun , Chen Keke , Ran Baichuan , Fu Tengfei , Lyu Wenzhe , Wang Yancheng , Jiang Xueyan , Zhong Xihuang
Published: January 2024

The groundwater environment in low-lying coastal regions is significantly impacted by global sea-level fluctuation. In Laizhou Bay, three large-scale transgressions have occurred since the late Pleistocene, resulting in the transformation of ancient seawater into brine. This brine has become a major contributor to groundwater salinity in the area. This study establishes a correlation between groundwater occurrence and paleoclimate changes in Laizhou Bay using borehole sediment data. The source and mechanism of groundwater salinity are analyzed based on sediment pore water characteristics and hydrogen and oxygen isotopes. The study reveals that the stratigraphic structures in the area consist of four layers: a Holocene transgressive layer, a continental confining bed from the late Pleistocene, a Cangzhou transgressive layer from the late Pleistocene, and a fluvial aquifer from the middle Pleistocene. All aquifers in the study area have been infiltrated by modern seawater, with the uppermost Holocene aquifer influenced by evaporation and leaching processes, the central late Pleistocene aquifer remaining relatively stable, and the lower middle Pleistocene aquifer affected by subsurface low salinity runoff and exhibiting an increasing trend with depth. Given the presence of numerous hydrogeological environments globally that are similar to the study area, the obtained mechanisms of groundwater salinization in this study will provide theoretical support for groundwater management in similar regions worldwide.
Exploring the hidden treasures: Deep-sea bacterial community structure in the Bay of Bengal and their metabolic profile
Authors: Verma Pankaj , Pandey Vikas , Seleyi Seyieleno C. , Alagarsamy Abirami , Dharani Gopal
Published: January 2024

Deep sea bacterial communities demonstrate remarkable adaptability to high-pressure environments coupled with low temperatures which has sparked curiosity about their diversity and exceptional metabolic pathways. Additionally, bacteria in the deep sea exert a substantial influence over various biogeochemical processes. To date, we have relatively very little information about the deep-sea bacterial communities and, they remain largely unexplored. We investigated the variability in the physicochemical conditions, heavy metals and their influence on deep-sea bacterial community structure across three different depths in the Bay of Bengal. The structural and metabolic diversity of deep-sea sediment microbial communities were examined through culture-based sequencing of 16S rRNA genes, ecto-enzymatic studies, and community-level physiological profiling. Bacillota was the most dominant phylum representing 61% of the cultured bacterial isolates, while the remaining belonged to Actinomycetota and Pseudomonodata. Five potential novel species belonging to the genera Fictibacillus, Lysinibacillus, Salinicola, Robertmurraya and Blastococcus were identified. The extracellular enzymatic activity was positive for >50% of the bacterial isolates, wherein the genera Bacillus and Micromonospora exhibited versatile profiles. High metabolic diversity was recorded through the carbon substrate utilization profiles indicating that microbial communities are active participants in biogeochemical cycles in the deep sea. The most prominently utilized carbon substrates were α-cyclodextrin, glucose-1-phosphate, D-xylose, glycogen, and 2-hydroxy benzoic acid which serve as organic substrates for microbial metabolism, facilitating the decomposition of organic matter and, recycling carbon in deep-sea ecosystems. Multivariate statistical analyses confirmed that the environmental variables had a profound influence on the bacterial community. The findings shed light on spatial variability in the bacterial community structure, enzyme activity and metabolic profiles, and enhance our understanding of Bay of Bengal deep-sea sedimentary microbial ecology.
Application of modified sodium alginate hydrogel for interventional embolization of hemorrhagic diseases
Authors: Wei Shengchao , Deng Tang , Wu Caixia , Shi Jianshan , Liao Yong , Huang Lin , Liu Yongjie , Zhong Shijie , Ji Xueying , Jin Guiyun
Published: January 2024

Traditional particulate embolic agents are small in diameter, but can easily embolize the ends of blood vessels, resulting in ischemia and necrosis of normal tissues and organs. The metal spring embolic agent has a larger diameter, but it cannot be degraded and can easily cause permanent damage to blood vessels. Ideally, a bleeding embolism should achieve rapid hemostasis without causing long-term necrosis of organs and tissues. In this study, a modified sodium alginate hydrogel (MSAH) was prepared by mixing an oxidized sodium alginate (OSA) aqueous solution with a carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) aqueous solution at a ratio of 1:6 in a 38°C bath for 8 min. The feasibility of this modified hydrogel was then tested in an internal iliac artery hemorrhage model using New Zealand rabbits. The MSAH had good adhesion. The hydrogel was injected through a single curved 4F catheter without obvious effects on uterine smooth muscle cell proliferation and apoptosis. The blood flow of the internal iliac artery was restored by long-term degradation of the sodium alginate hydrogel, and no ischemia and necrosis were observed by histopathology. The MSAH prepared using a mixture of OSA and CMC had good adhesion, biocompatibility, and injectability and could be used for target-vessel embolization in an internal iliac artery hemorrhage model. The MSAH can achieve main artery embolization without affecting the peripheral artery blood supply, resulting in both short-term rapid hemostasis and long-term degradation, with no target organ necrosis.
Chinese experts’ consensus on the application of intensive care big data
Authors: Su Longxiang , Liu Shengjun , Long Yun , Chen Chaodong , Chen Kai , Chen Ming , Chen Yaolong , Cheng Yisong , Cui Yating , Ding Qi , Ding Renyu , Duan Meili , Gao Tao , Gu Xiaohua , He Hongli , He Jiawei , Hu Bo , Hu Chang , Huang Rui , Huang Xiaobo , Jiang Huizhen , Jiang Jing , Lan Yunping , Li Jun , Li Linfeng , Li Lu , Li Wenxiong , Li Yongzai , Lin Jin , Luo Xufei , Lyu Feng , Mao Zhi , Miao He , Shang Xiaopu , Shang Xiuling , Shang You , Shen Yuwen , Shi Yinghuan , Sun Qihang , Sun Weijun , Tang Zhiyun , Wang Bo , Wang Haijun , Wang Hongliang , Wang Li , Wang Luhao , Wang Sicong , Wang Zhanwen , Wang Zhong , Wei Dong , Wu Jianfeng , Wu Qin , Xing Xuezhong , Yang Jin , Yang Xianghong , Yu Jiangquan , Yu Wenkui , Yu Yuan , Yuan Hao , Zhai Qian , Zhang Hao , Zhang Lina , Zhang Meng , Zhang Zhongheng , Zhao Chunguang , Zheng Ruiqiang , Zhong Lei , Zhou Feihu , Zhu Weiguo
Published: January 2024

The development of intensive care medicine is inseparable from the diversified monitoring data. Intensive care medicine has been closely integrated with data since its birth. Critical care research requires an integrative approach that embraces the complexity of critical illness and the computational technology and algorithms that can make it possible. Considering the need of standardization of application of big data in intensive care, Intensive Care Medicine Branch of China Health Information and Health Care Big Data Society, Standard Committee has convened expert group, secretary group and the external audit expert group to formulate Chinese Experts’ Consensus on the Application of Intensive Care Big Data (2022). This consensus makes 29 recommendations on the following five parts: Concept of intensive care big data, Important scientific issues, Standards and principles of database, Methodology in solving big data problems, Clinical application and safety consideration of intensive care big data. The consensus group believes this consensus is the starting step of application big data in the field of intensive care. More explorations and big data based retrospective research should be carried out in order to enhance safety and reliability of big data based models of critical care field.
Assessing the impact of adopting a competency-based medical education framework and ACGME-I accreditation on educational outcomes in a family medicine residency program in Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Baynouna AlKetbi Latifa , Nagelkerke Nico , AlZarouni Amal A. , AlKuwaiti Mariam M. , AlDhaheri Ruwaya , AlNeyadi Amna M. , AlAlawi Shamma S. , AlKuwaiti Mouza H.
Published: January 2024

Background

Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) is now mandated by many graduate and undergraduate accreditation standards. Evaluating CBME is essential for quantifying its impact, finding supporting evidence for the efforts invested in accreditation processes, and determining future steps. The Ambulatory Healthcare Services (AHS) family medicine residency program has been accredited by the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education-International (ACGME-I) since 2013. This study aims to report the Abu Dhabi program’s experience in implementing CBME and accreditation.

Objectives

Compare the two residents’ cohorts’ performance pre-and post-ACGME-I accreditation.

Study the bi-annually reported milestones as a graduating residents’ performance prognostic tool.

Methods

All residents in the program from 2008 to 2019 were included. They are called Cohort one—the intake from 2008 to 2012, before the ACGME accreditation, and Cohort two—the intake from 2013 to 2019, after the ACGME accreditation, with the milestones used. The mandatory annual in-training exam was used as an indication of the change in competency between the two cohorts. Among Cohort two ACGME-I, the biannual milestones data were studied to find the correlation between residents’ early and graduating milestones.

Results

A total of 112 residents were included: 36 in Cohort one and 76 in Cohort two. In Cohort one, before the ACGME accreditation, no significant associations were identified between residents’ graduation in-training exam and their early performance indicators, while in Cohort two, there were significant correlations between almost all performance metrics. Early milestones are correlated with the graduation in-training exam score. Linear regression confirmed this relationship after controlling the residents’ undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA). Competency development continues to improve even after residents complete training at Post Graduate Year, PGY4, as residents’ achievement in PGY5 continues to improve.

Conclusion

Improved achievement of residents after the introduction of the ACGME-I accreditation is evident. Additionally, the correlation between the graduation in-training exam and graduation milestones, with earlier milestones, suggests a possible use of early milestones in predicting outcomes.
Porokeratosis of the scrotum: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Xiaorong , Chen Bangtao , Yang Jing
Published: January 2024

Porokeratosis, a keratinizing disorder of unknown etiology, exhibits an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern or manifests as an isolated acquired dermatosis. This condition can occur at any site on the skin; however, scrotal lesions are extremely rare. Only 18 cases of scrotal lesions were identified through a comprehensive review of the relevant literature. Herein, we present a case of a 19-year-old patient with porokeratosis of the scrotum. Additionally, we provide a summary of the etiologies, clinical manifestations, and histopathology of scrotal porokeratosis, and present differential diagnoses by reviewing the related literature.