bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polystyrene nanoplastics aggravates lipopolysaccharide‐induced apoptosis in mouse kidney cells by regulating IRE1/XBP1 endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway via oxidative stress
Authors: Li Zhe , Xu Tong , Peng Lin , Tang Xinyu , Chi Qianru , Li Ming , Li Shu
Published: November 2022

Nanoplastics (NPs) pollution poses a huge threat to the ecosystem and has become one of the environmental pollutants that have attracted much attention. There is increasing evidence that both oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) are associated with polystyrene nanoplastics (PS‐NPs) exposure. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) has been shown to induce apoptotic damage in various tissues, but whether PS‐NPs can aggravate LPS‐induced apoptosis in mouse kidneys through oxidative stress‐regulated inositol‐requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1)/X‐box binding protein 1 (XBP1) ERS pathway remains unclear. In this study, based on the establishment of in vitro and in vivo PS‐NPs and LPS exposure models alone and in combination in mice and HEK293 cells, the effects and mechanisms of PS‐NPs on LPS‐induced renal cell apoptosis were investigated. The results showed that PS‐NPs could aggravate LPS‐induced apoptosis. PS‐NPs/LPS can induce ERS through oxidative stress, activate the IRE1/XBP1 pathway, and promote the expression of apoptosis markers (Caspase‐3 and Caspase‐12). Kidney oxidative stress, ERS, and apoptosis in PS‐NPs + LPS combined exposure group were more severe than those in the single exposure group. Interestingly, 4‐phenylbutyric acid‐treated HEK293 cells inhibited the expression of the IRE1/XBP1 ERS pathway and apoptotic factors in the PS‐NPs + LPS combined exposure group. N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine effectively blocked the activation of the IRE1/XBP1 ERS pathway, suggesting that PS‐NPs‐induced oxidative stress is an early event that triggers ERS. Collectively, these results confirmed that PS‐NPs aggravated LPS‐induced apoptosis through the oxidative stress‐induced IRE1/XBP1 ERS pathway. Our study provides new insights into the health threats of PS‐NPs exposed to mammals and humans.
Significance of enriched culture on the assessment of the acute inhibitory impact of sulfamethoxazole on nitrifying biomass
Authors: Katipoglu‐Yazan Tugce , Ubay‐Cokgor Emine , Orhon Derin
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

Autotrophic microorganisms are quite vulnerable to environmental conditions and to inhibitory actions that would upset nitrification mechanisms. A reliable numerical assessment of the adverse impact is needed for proper remedial action. This study focused on the kinetic response of the nitrifying fraction within the activated sludge biomass under acute exposure to sulfamethoxazole (SMX), utilizing and emphasizing the role of enriched culture. A mixed culture sustained with an enrichment technique was used to generate oxygen uptake rate profiles, where ammonia was the sole substrate with different SMX concentrations.

RESULTS

Model calibration studies yielded specific growth rates of 1.40/day for the ammonia oxidizing fraction and 0.65/day for the nitrite oxidizing fraction acting as the rate limiting step for the overall nitrification process. SMX did not appreciably affect the specific growth rates, but it induced a significant increase in half saturation coefficients. Moreover, increased endogenous decay rates were estimated.

CONCLUSION

Model calibration values indicated that SMX induced competitive inhibition on microbial growth and enhanced endogenous respiration due to an increasing demand for the maintenance energy to activate antibiotic resistance. This underlines the merit of further studies on conditions to sustain resistant microorganisms capable of tolerating and even degrading antibiotics in biological systems. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Production of syngas by methane dry reforming over the catalyst ZNi1‐xCex: effects of catalyst calcination and reduction temperature
Authors: Rajput Akanksha Singh , Das Taraknath
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

A nickel‐based catalyst is active in the dry reforming of methane. However, the nickel‐metal particles' sintering at high reaction temperatures and the rapid catalyst deactivation due to coke deposition are still significant issues.

RESULTS

A series of catalysts, Ni1‐xCex, was prepared by the sol–gel technique and the synthesized catalysts were used for the methane dry reforming reaction considering various parameters, such as the ceria to nickel ratio, total loading, catalyst calcination, and reduction temperature. The addition of ceria to nickel increased the CH4 and CO2 percent conversion. The catalyst 40Ni0.75Ce0.25/Al2O3 calcined at 700 °C possessed a high conversion of CO2 and CH4. The reduced catalyst (40Ni0.75Ce0.25/Al2O3) showed better catalytic activity than the calcined catalyst. However, the reduced catalyst's performance declined due to coke deposition. The calcined catalyst was more stable than the reduced catalyst. The time‐on‐stream study (up to 16 h) reflected that the percent conversion and yield dropped more sharply for the reduced catalyst (% CO2 Conversion dropped: 100% to 94%) than for the calcined catalyst (% CO2 conversion dropped: 94% to 93%). The accumulation of ceria and support (alumina) increased the catalyst surface area, which improved the overall activity and stability of the catalyst. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy analyses detected the formation of Multi Walled ‐ Carbon Nanotubes (MW‐CNT) on the used catalyst. They also show the formation of a smaller diameter of MW‐CNT (60–70 nm) over the calcined catalyst than the reduced catalyst (80–139 nm).

CONCLUSION

The calcined catalyst, 40Ni0.75Ce0.25/Al2O3–700 °C, was very active with high methane (91%) and CO2 (94%) conversions; also, the reduced catalyst was active and possessed high methane (88%) and CO2 (100%) conversions at low reaction temperatures. Overall, the calcined catalyst was comparatively more stable than the reduced catalyst. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Exercise and emersion in air and recovery in seawater in the green crab (Carcinus maenas): Effects on nitrogenous wastes and branchial chamber fluid chemistry
Authors: Wood Chris M.
Published: November 2022

At low tide, the green crab, which is capable of breathing air, may leave the water and walk on the foreshore, carrying branchial chamber fluid (BCF). N‐waste metabolism was examined in crabs at rest in seawater (32 ppt, 13°C), and during 18‐h recovery in seawater after 1 h of exhaustive exercise (0.25 BL s−1) on a treadmill in air (20°C–23°C), or 1 h of quiet emersion in air. Measurements were made in parallel to O2 consumption (ṀO2), acid‐base, cardio‐respiratory, and ion data reported previously. At rest, the ammonia‐N excretion rate (ṀAmm = 44 µmol‐N kg−1 h−1) and ammonia quotient (AQ; ṀAmm/ṀO2 = 0.088) were low for a carnivore. Immediately after exercise and return to seawater, ṀAmm increased by 65‐fold above control rates. After emersion alone and return to seawater, ṀAmm increased by 17‐fold. These ammonia‐N bursts were greater, but transient relative to longer‐lasting elevations in ṀO2, resulting in temporal disturbances of AQ. Intermittent excretion of urea‐N and urate‐N at rest and during recovery indicated the metabolic importance of these N‐wastes. Hemolymph glutamate, glutamine, and PNH3 did not change. Hemolymph ammonia‐N, urea‐N, and urate‐N concentrations increased after exercise and more moderately after emersion, with urate‐N exhibiting the largest absolute increments, and urea‐N the longest‐lasting elevations. All three N‐wastes were present in the BCF, with ammonia‐N and PNH3 far above hemolymph levels even at rest. BCF volume declined by 34% postemersion and 77% postexercise, with little change in osmolality but large increases in ammonia‐N concentrations. Neither rapid flushing of stored BCF nor clearance of hemolymph ammonia‐N could explain the surges in ṀAmm after return to seawater.
Influence of bone morphology and femur preparation method on the primary stability of hip revision stems
Authors: Konow Tobias , Schlieker Peter J. , Lampe Frank , Ondruschka Benjamin , Morlock Michael M. , Huber Gerd
Published: November 2022

Aseptic loosening is one of the major reasons for re‐revisions of cementless revision stems. Insufficient primary stability is associated with bone characteristics and the surgical process. This study aimed to investigate how femur morphology and preparation methods influence the primary stability of revision stems. The Femur morphology was described by the upper femoral curvature (UFC) and an individualized Dorr type classification based on the ratio between the canal‐to‐calcar ratio (CCR*) and the cortical index (CI*) introduced as the cortical‐canal shape (CCS). Manual and powered reaming in combination with helical and straight reamers were used to prepare the bone cavity of 10 cadaveric human femur pairs. Forces during stem impaction were recorded (Reclaim, Depuy Synthes). Micromotion at the bone–implant interface during cyclic axial loading and torsional load to failure was determined. The CCS and impaction forces (R2 = 0.817, p < 0.001) or torsional strength (R2 = 0.577, p < 0.001) are inversely related. CCS did not correlate with micromotion during axial loading (R2 = 0.001, p > 0.999), but proximal femoral curvature did (R2 = 0.462, p = 0.015). Powered reaming and straight reamers led to an improved torsional strength (both: p = 0.043). The Individualized Dorr classification CCS and UFC allows a good estimation of the primary stability of revision stems. For severely curved Dorr type‐C femurs, an alternative anchorage method should be considered clinically.
Pattern of grade C molar‐incisor pattern periodontitis in families
Authors: Tabaa Mostafa , Adatowovor Reuben , Shabila Avesta , Morford Lorri , Dawson Dolph , Harrison Peter , Aukhil Ikramuddin , Huang Hong , Stromberg Arnold , Goncalves Jussara , Shaddox Luciana M.
Published: November 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the clinical and inflammatory response patterns for individual siblings diagnosed with grade C molar‐incisor pattern periodontitis (C‐MIP) and between the related siblings within families.

Methods

Sixty‐nine siblings within 28 families with moderate‐to‐severe C‐MIP were included. Clinical parameters were evaluated for symmetry regarding the affected type of teeth, side and/or arch, and bone loss pattern. The protein concentrations from in vitro whole blood cultures for 14 different lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated inflammatory markers were correlated with the extent and severity of disease, within an individual sibling and among siblings within a family.

Results

A similar disease pattern was observed among all siblings and within families. The most common teeth affected were first molars and incisors or first molars only within the permanent dentition and only molars within the primary dentition (p < 0.001). Symmetry involving molars was higher than in incisors in siblings, regardless of arch or side affected (p = 0.020). Arc‐shape/vertical bone defects were the most common (p = 0.006) and higher symmetry was found for these defects in the permanent dentition (p = 0.005). Positive correlations were found between age, clinical attachment loss, and percent affected sites with several inflammatory markers. The inflammatory responses for several inflammatory markers were correlated within and among families (p < 0.050). Specifically, the intraclass correlation coefficient within families was highest (>0.5) for interleukin (IL)‐8, IL‐6, and IL‐10.

Conclusions

Families with C‐MIP presented similar patterns of disease. The level of an inflammatory response to bacteria seemed to play a role in the extent and severity of this disease, exemplified by the high degree of correlation in these families.
Cyanoacrylate and hyaluronic acid combination on palatal donor site management after de‐epithelialized graft harvesting
Authors: Parlak Hanife Merva , Durmaz Murat Haktan , Bayrak Havanur , Yilmaz Birtan Tolga , Keceli H. Gencay
Published: November 2022

Background

Although soft tissue substitutes showed promising improvement in the past decade, epithelialized gingival graft (EGG) is still widely used in periodontal plastic surgery applications. Donor site management after EGG harvesting has been challenging for clinicians. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of cyanoacrylate, hyaluronic acid, and their combination in palatal donor site management after EGG harvesting.

Methods

Data from 89 patients were included and categorized as gelatin sponge (GS), gelatin sponge with either cyanoacrylate (GS + CY), hyaluronic acid (GS + HA), or both (GS + CY + HA). The data of pain perception (PP), quantity of analgesics (QA), secondary bleeding (SB), epithelization level (EL), and color match (CM) were assessed retrospectively.

Results

The GS + CY and GS + HA + CY groups showed lower PP scores compared to the GS and GS + HA groups (p < 0.05). The QA was higher in the GS group compared to the GS + CY and GS + HA + CY groups (p < 0.001). All study groups showed greater EL than GS group on day 7 (p < 0.001). On day 14, full EL was present in 81% of the patients in the GS + HA + CY group, which was higher than the other groups (p < 0.001). All study groups reported lower SB in the first 3 days, which was lower compared to the GS group (p < 0.001) and showed higher CM scores than the GS group on days 7 and 14 (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

CY application reduces pain and analgesic intake and HA may support the wound healing with increased EL. Using the CY‐HA combination provides additional benefits for donor site management.
Aggregation and adsorption behavior of cobalt‐based metallosurfactant in water–ethylene glycol media forming worm‐like micelles
Authors: Charingia Anushmita , Shergujri Mohd Aurif , Suting Smarling , Wagay Tariq Ahmad , Askari Hassan
Published: November 2022

The cobalt based metallosurfactant cis‐chlorobis(ethylenediamine)hexadecylaminecobalt(III) chloride (CHCC) has been prepared and well characterized by utilizing elemental analysis, NMR (1H, 13C), FT‐IR and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The CHCC metallosurfactant shows thermal stability up to 168°C. The micellization behavior of the synthesized CHCC metallosurfactant has been investigated systematically by the tensiometric, conductometric, and fluorescence techniques. The critical micelle concentration (cmc) values of CHCC have been determined in various water–ethylene glycol mixtures ranging from 0 to 100 weight % of ethylene glycol at 293.15, 298.15, 303.15, and 308.15 K. The physicochemical parameters namely counterion binding constant, surface pressure, surface excess, surface area covered per CHCC metallosurfactant molecule, free energy minimum, standard free energies of micellization and adsorption, standard enthalpy and entropy of micellization, and Gibb's free energy of transfer have been calculated. The hydrodynamic diameters and zeta potentials of the CHCC metallomicelles have been measured by dynamic light scattering method. Transmission electron microscopy was employed to confirm the presence of worm‐like micelles.
Diffusion of phenolic compounds during a model maceration in winemaking: role of flesh and seeds
Authors: Abi‐Habib Elissa , Vernhet Aude , Roi Stéphanie , Carrillo Stéphanie , Veran Fredéric , Ducasse Marie‐Agnès , Poncet‐Legrand Céline
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

During red winemaking, diffusion of phenolic compounds from the grape berry cells into the liquid phase occurs simultaneously with the adsorption of the same compounds onto the pulp. In previous studies, we quantified the proportions of polyphenols diffusing from the skins and then assessed the amounts that can be fixed by the pulp. In this work, we added the impact of seeds, also present during vinification, by carrying out macerations in a model medium with the following berry compartments: skins, seeds, skins + seeds, skins + seeds + pulp.

RESULTS

Interestingly, the seeds alone released a rather high amount of polyphenols. As soon as they were in the presence of cell walls of skin/flesh, and/or anthocyanins, the concentration of seed tannins in the solution dropped dramatically, due to a combined effect of adsorption and/or precipitation and/or chemical reactions. The pulp certainly adsorbed tannins, but they also tended to shift the extraction equilibria, and it seems that more tannins could be extracted from skins and seeds when pulp was present. Polyphenol amounts extracted in model systems with skins + seeds + pulp were close to what was extracted in microvinification.

CONCLUSION

These model experiments reflect relatively well extraction during microvinification experiments and highlight the respective impact of the grape berry's different compartments in the wine's final phenolic composition as well as some of the mechanisms involved. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
A polarization modulated directional backlight autostereoscopic display
Authors: Fan Yunjia , He Yong , Chen Xuehao , Li Zhanhong , Li Xiaoke , Zhan Shaohui , Zhou Jianying
Published: November 2022

A polarization modulated directional backlight autostereoscopic display is proposed and demonstrated. The system consists of the orthogonally polarized backlight, the Fresnel lens array, a light shaping diffuser film, and a liquid crystal display (LCD) with a microphase retardation film. The autostereoscopic image pair carried by the directional light with different polarization directions is simultaneously projected to different spatial directions. The simulation and experimental results show that the directional projection of parallax images is realized for a high‐quality autostereoscopic display with large viewing angle and continuous viewing volume, hence making it suitable for practical applications.
Prognostic and predictive factors for locoregional and systemic therapies in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Gray Simon , Lamarca Angela , McNamara Mairéad G. , Edeline Julien , Piper‐Hanley Karen , Valle Juan W. , Hubner Richard A.
Published: November 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a growing health concern, with an estimated global incidence of over 1 million by 2025. In its intermediate and advanced stages, HCC remains a challenging condition to treat, despite a recently expanded array of systemic therapies, which continues to grow. Extensive efforts have accordingly been made to identify predictive factors to guide treatment decisions. However, currently, only one predictive biomarker is in widespread clinical use, namely elevated alpha‐fetoprotein for second‐line systemic therapy with ramucirumab. This article reviews known prognostic and predictive biomarkers for patients with HCC who are treated with locoregional and systemic therapies, including recent controversies around the potential impact of HCC aetiology on the efficacy of systemic therapies.
The incorporation of straw into the subsoil increases C, N, and P enzyme activities and nutrient supply by enriching distinctive functional microorganisms
Authors: Zhao Deqiang , Ling Jun , Wu Gong , Liu Zixi , Zhou Shunli , Wen Yuan , Beule Lukas
Published: November 2022

Incorporation of crop residues into agricultural soils is a common practice that can improve soil quality. However, the impact of different straw incorporation techniques on soil bacteria and their functions is still not well understood, especially across soil depths. Here, we investigated the impact of three maize straw management methods (straw removal, straw incorporation into topsoil, and deep‐injected straw incorporation into subsoil) on soil bacterial communities and how they were linked to extracellular enzymes and soil properties. Deep‐injected straw incorporation strongly promoted enzyme activities: C‐cycling enzymes increased by 111–532 nmol g−1 hr−1, N‐cycling enzymes by 229–708 nmol g−1 hr−1, and P‐cycling enzymes by 142–216 nmol g−1 hr−1 compared to straw removal and straw incorporation into topsoil. In addition, deep‐injected straw incorporation considerably increased soil organic carbon (SOC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and total nitrogen (TN) compared to the other straw management methods (249–253% for SOC, 303–370% for DOC, and 178–196% for TN). However, in topsoil, only minimal effects of straw management practices on bacterial communities, enzymes activities, and soil properties were found. Deep‐injected straw incorporation favoured copiotrophic bacteria which resulted in a reduction of 41% in Shannon index. Bacteria associated with carbon and nitrogen cycling were mainly Actinobacteria, which were positively correlated with TN, SOC, and DOC. Acidobacteria were the dominant species in P‐cycling module and were positively associated with SOC, DOC, and available phosphorus. Overall, injection of straw into subsoil alters bacterial communities and functioning, and increases soil nutrients and soil organic C in subsoil.
An econometric analysis of small‐ and medium‐scale enterprises and employment creation in Nigeria
Authors: Aderemi Timothy Ayomitunde , Opele Adedayo Mathias , Okoh Johnson Ifeanyi , Al‐Faryan Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh
Published: November 2022

This study examined the relationship between small‐medium enterprises and employment in Nigeria. Annual data extracted from the ILO, WDI and CBN databases from 1991 to 2019 was subjected to various econometric techniques. The summary of findings that erupted in this work is as follows. Commercial banks loans to SMEs stimulate a significant employment creation in Nigeria. SMEs jobs have a significant positive contribution to employment creation in the country. Steaming from the findings of this study, whenever these policymakers want to create employment, policy and programmes that drive the expansion of SMEs oriented jobs should be implemented in the country.
Simulations on multiple tropical cyclones event associated with monsoon trough over the western North Pacific
Authors: Huang Qijun , Guo Bingyao , Ge Xuyang
Published: November 2022

In this study, the formation of an idealized multiple tropical cyclones (MTCs) event within a monsoon trough (MT) region is investigated by using the weather forecasting model (WRF_ARW). Sensitivity experiments are conducted by specifying different initial conditions. It is revealed that both dynamical and thermodynamical conditions associated with the MT are important in triggering MTCs event over the western North Pacific basin. In the composite active years, which have a strong MT with higher ambient moisture, an MTCs event is produced. In contrast, no MTCs event occurs in the inactive years, which confirms the previous observational study. The possible pathway for the formation of MTCs event is proposed. In the active years, under favourable moist environments, the first TC is generated faster through the greater barotropic kinetic energy conversion. Once the first tropical cyclone (TC) is generated, the energy dispersion induced low‐level Rossby wave train acts as a precursor to the second TC. Furthermore, the upper‐level asymmetric outflow jet acts as a dynamical forcing to induce vertical motion, which builds up a favourable environmental condition for a second TC development. This work provides some insights into the formation of MTCs event.
Elevated plasma miR‐210 expression is associated with atypical genitalia in patients with 46,XY differences in sex development
Authors: Elias Felipe Martins , Nishi Mirian Yumi , Sircili Maria Helena Palma , Bastista Rafael Loch , Gomes Nathalia Lisboa , Ferrari Maria Tereza Martins , Costa Elaine Maria Frade , Denes Francisco Tibor , Mendonca Berenice Bilharinho , Domenice Sorahia
Published: November 2022

Background

Differences of sex development (DSD) is a term used for conditions in which the chromosomal, gonadal or phenotypical sex is atypical. 46,XY DSD patients frequently present undervirilized external genitalia. The expression of different miRNAs in many organs of the male genital system has been reported, and these miRNAs have been associated with testicular function and its disorders, but no description has been related to DSD conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the plasma expression of miR‐210 in 46,XY DSD patients who presented atypical genitalia at birth.

Methods

Eighteen 46,XY DSD patients who presented atypical genitalia (undescended testis and/or hypospadias, bifid scrotum or micropenis) at birth and 36 male control individuals were selected. Plasma levels of miR‐210 and reference miR‐23a were measured using RT‐qPCR and the data were analysed by the 2−ΔCt method.

Results

MiR‐210 plasma levels were significantly higher in 46,XY DSD patients with atypical genitalia than in male control subjects (p = 0.0024). A positive association between miR‐210 levels and the presence of cryptorchidism and hypospadias (p = 0.0146 and p = 0.0223) was found in these patients. Significantly higher levels of miR‐210 were observed in patients with 46,XY DSD and cryptorchidism than in control subjects (p = 0.0118). These results are in agreement with previous literature reports, in which increased levels of miR‐210 expression were observed in human testicular tissue from adult males with undescended testes in comparison with samples of descended testes.

Conclusion

Our study showed a positive association between the presence of atypical genitalia and plasma levels of miR‐210 expression in the group of patients with 46,XY DSD of unknown aetiology studied. These findings contribute to reveal a new perspective on the role of miRNAs in the development of male external genitalia and the broad spectrum of phenotypes presented by patients with 46,XY DSD.
The compound heterozygous mutations of c.607G>a and c.657delC in the FAH gene are associated with renal damage with hereditary tyrosinemia type 1 (HT1)
Authors: Chi Huan , Gan Chun , Jiang Yaru , Chen Dan , Qiu Jiawen , Yang Qing , Chen Yaxi , Wang Mo , Yang Haiping , Jiang Wei , Li Qiu
Published: November 2022

Background

Hereditary tyrosinemia type 1 (HT1) is a rare inherited metabolic disease characterized by severe liver and renal dysfunction. Early identification in affected children is critical for improved treatment options and prognosis.

Methods

In this study, we identified novel compound heterozygous mutations (NM_000137: c.657delC (p.K220Rfs*12) and c.607G>A (p.A203T)) in the fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase (FAH) gene in a family. We also characterized the clinical phenotype of the proband and verified the pathogenic effects of the mutations. Furthermore, we explored the pathogenic mechanism of renal injury through renal biopsy pathology and cell‐based in vitro assays. Our study aims to verify the association between novel fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase (FAH) variants and HT1, confirm the pathogenic effects of the mutations and explore the pathogenic mechanism of renal injury.

Results

We showed these FAH mutations were inherited in an autosomal recessive manner and resulted in abnormal FAH protein expression and dysfunction, leading to fumarylacetoacetate (FAA) accumulation. The proband also showed apparent renal injury, including glomerular filtration barrier dysfunction and abnormal tubular protein reabsorption.

Conclusions

These observations may provide deeper insights on disease pathogenesis and identify potential therapeutic approaches for HT1 from a genetic perspective. Similarly, we hope to provide valuable information for genetic counseling and prenatal diagnostics.
Behavioral health heads priority list for state Medicaid service expansions
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: November 2022

Behavioral health care stands as the most frequently targeted area for benefit expansions in state Medicaid programs, reports the latest survey of state Medicaid directors by Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). Sixteen states reported mental health and/or substance use benefit additions or expansions in fiscal year 2022, with 14 states intending to do so in fiscal 2023.
Modeling of periodic compensation policy for sterile mosquitoes incorporating sexual lifespan
Authors: Huang Mingzhan , Liu Shouzong , Song Xinyu
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a delayed mosquito population suppression model with stage and sex structure is constructed incorporating periodic releases of the sterile mosquito and its sexual lifespan. Sterile mosquitoes are released periodically into the field to suppress the wild mosquito population, and only sexually active sterile mosquitoes are included in the interaction system of these two populations. According to the relationship between the release period
and the sexual lifespan
, we study the dynamic behaviors of the system, such as the existence of positive periodic solutions and the stability of extinction equilibrium in three cases. A series of numerical simulations are performed, which not only verify the reliability of the theoretical results but also make a numerical analysis of the open problems raised in the theoretical research.
Method of separating variables combined with approach of dynamic system for investigating exact solutions of nonlinear time‐fractional models
Authors: Xu Jiafa , Weiguo Rui , Wei Tang
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we introduce a combination method called method of separating variables and approach of dynamic system. As an application example, by using this combination method, we study two nonlinear time‐fractional models called time‐fractional reaction–diffusion equations. Under different parametric regions, phase portraits of the systems which are derived from the parts of space variables of the two reaction–diffusion equations are given. In free boundary conditions, the existence of solution of the two nonlinear time‐fractional models is studied. In some special parametric conditions, some exact solutions of the two time‐fractional models are obtained. Dynamic phenomena of some representative exact solutions developing with time and space variables are illustrated by 3D graphs of numerical simulation.
Study on the thermal and mechanical properties of two‐dimensional d‐Ti3C2Tx filled polyamide 66 nanocomposite
Authors: Li Haonan , Wang Libo , Xu Shuya , Li Han , Dai Yahui , Zhou Aiguo
Published: November 2022

Two‐dimensional (2D) transition‐metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides exhibit excellent thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties, and MXene displays good advantages in improving the mechanical properties of composites. In this study, the injection molding method is employed to introduce d‐Ti3C2Tx MXene into the polyamide 66 matrix, yielding a d‐Ti3C2Tx/PA66 nanocomposite. The tensile strength, flexural strength, Young's modulus, and hardness of d‐Ti3C2Tx/PA66 nanocomposites are higher than that of pure PA66, owing to the high strength of the d‐Ti3C2Tx nanosheets, good interfacial bonding, and stress transfer between the PA66 matrix and d‐Ti3C2Tx nanofiller. TGA and DMA results revealed that the addition of d‐Ti3C2Tx into the PA66 matrix improves the Tg, Es, creep resistance, and recovery properties, as well as the thermal stability of PA66 in an oxidizing atmosphere.
Absolute lymphocyte count recovery following initial acute myelogenous leukemia therapy: Implications for adoptive cell therapy
Authors: Molina John C. , Li Yimei , Otto William R. , Miller Tamara P. , Getz Kelly D. , Mccoubrey Carly , Ramos Mark , Krause Edward , Cao Lusha , Gramatges M. Monica , Rabin Karen , Scheurer Michael , Elgarten Caitlin W. , Myers Regina M. , Seif Alix E. , Fisher Brian T. , Shah Nirali N. , Aplenc Richard
Published: November 2022

Background

An adequate absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) is an essential first step in autologous chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell manufacturing. For patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), the intensity of chemotherapy received may affect adequate ALC recovery required for CAR T‐cell production. We sought to analyze ALC following each course of upfront therapy as one metric for CAR T‐cell manufacturing feasibility in children and young adults with AML.

Procedure

ALC data were collected from an observational study of patients with newly diagnosed AML between the ages of 1 month and 21 years who received treatment between the years of 2006 and 2018 at one of three hospitals in the Leukemia Electronic Abstraction of Records Network (LEARN) consortium.

Results

Among 193 patients with sufficient ALC data for analysis, the median ALC following induction 1 was 1715 cells/μl (interquartile range: 1166–2388), with successive decreases in ALC with each subsequent course. Similarly, the proportion of patients achieving an ALC >400 cells/μl decreased following each course, ranging from 98.4% (190/193) after course 1 to 66.7% (22/33) for patients who received a fifth course of therapy.

Conclusions

There is a successive decline of ALC recovery with subsequent courses of chemotherapy. Despite this decline, ALC values are likely sufficient to consider apheresis prior to the initiation of each course of upfront therapy for the majority of newly diagnosed pediatric AML patients, thereby providing a window of opportunity for T‐cell collection for those patients identified at high risk of relapse or with refractory disease.
Targeting peptide‐based quorum sensing systems for the treatment of gram‐positive bacterial infections
Authors: Milly Tahmina A. , Tal‐Gan Yftah
Published: November 2022

Bacteria utilize a cell density‐dependent communication system called quorum sensing (QS) to coordinate group behaviors. In Gram‐positive bacteria, QS involves the production of and response to auto‐inducing peptide (AIP) signaling molecules to modulate group phenotypes, including pathogenicity. As such, this bacterial communication system has been identified as a potential therapeutic target against bacterial infections. More specifically, developing synthetic modulators derived from the native peptide signal paves a new way to selectively block the pathogenic behaviors associated with this signaling system. Moreover, rational design and development of potent synthetic peptide modulators allows in depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms that drive QS circuits in diverse bacterial species. Overall, studies aimed at understanding the role of QS in microbial social behavior could result in the accumulation of significant knowledge of microbial interactions, and consequently lead to the development of alternative therapeutic agents to treat bacterial infectivity. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the development of peptide‐based modulators to target QS systems in Gram‐positive pathogens, with a focus on evaluating the therapeutic potential associated with these bacterial signaling pathways.
Stability profile of vimentin rod domain
Authors: Lilina Anastasia V. , Leekens Simon , Hashim Hani M. , Vermeire Pieter‐Jan , Harvey Jeremy N. , Strelkov Sergei V.
Published: November 2022

Intermediate filaments (IFs) form an essential part of the metazoan cytoskeleton. Despite a long history of research, a proper understanding of their molecular architecture and assembly process is still lacking. IFs self‐assemble from elongated dimers, which are defined by their central “rod” domain. This domain forms an α‐helical coiled coil consisting of three segments called coil1A, coil1B, and coil2. It has been hypothesized that the structural plasticity of the dimer, including the unraveling of some coiled‐coil regions, is essential for the assembly process. To systematically explore this possibility, we have studied six 50‐residue fragments covering the entire rod domain of human vimentin, a model IF protein. After creating in silico models of these fragments, their evaluation using molecular dynamics was performed. Large differences were seen across the six fragments with respect to their structural variability during a 100 ns simulation. Next, the fragments were prepared recombinantly, whereby their correct dimerization was promoted by adding short N‐ or C‐terminal capping motifs. The capped fragments were subjected to circular dichroism measurements at varying temperatures. The obtained melting temperatures reveal the relative stabilities of individual fragments, which correlate well with in silico results. We show that the least stable regions of vimentin rod are coil1A and the first third of coil2, while the structures of coil1B and the rest of coil2 are significantly more robust. These observations are in line with the data obtained using other experimental approaches, and contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving IF assembly.
Development of charybdotoxin Q18F variant as a selective peptide blocker of neuronal BK(α + β4) channel for the treatment of epileptic seizures
Authors: Liu Xinlian , Tao Jie , Zhang Shuzhang , Lan Wenxian , Yao Yu , Wang Chunxi , Xue Hongjuan , Ji Yonghua , Li Guoyi , Cao Chunyang
Published: November 2022

Epilepsy is the results from the imbalance between inhibition and excitation in neural circuits, which is mainly treated by some chemical drugs with side effects. Gain‐of‐function of BK channels or knockout of its β4 subunit associates with spontaneous epilepsy. Currently, few reports were published about the efficacy of BK(α + β4) channel modulators in epilepsy prevention. Charybdotoxin is a non‐specific inhibitor of BK and other K+ channels. Here, by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and other biochemical techniques, we found that charybdotoxin might interact with the extracellular loop of human β4 subunit (i.e., hβ4‐loop) of BK(α + β4) channel at a molar ratio 4:1 (hβ4‐loop vs. charybdotoxin). Charybdotoxin enhanced its ability to prevent K+ current of BK(α + β4 H101Y) channel. The charybdotoxin Q18F variant selectively reduced the neuronal spiking frequency and increased interspike intervals of BK(α + β4) channel by π–π stacking interactions between its residue Phe18 and residue His101 of hβ4‐loop. Moreover, intrahippocampal infusion of charybdotoxin Q18F variant significantly increased latency time of seizure, reduced seizure duration and seizure numbers on pentylenetetrazole‐induced pre‐sensitized rats, inhibited hippocampal hyperexcitability and c‐Fos expression, and displayed neuroprotective effects on hippocampal neurons. These results implied that charybdotoxin Q18F variant could be potentially used for intractable epilepsy treatment by therapeutically targeting BK(α + β4) channel.
Probing the effect of glycosaminoglycan depletion on integrin interactions with collagen I fibrils in the native extracellular matrix environment
Authors: Roth Jonathan , Hoop Cody L. , Williams Jonathan K. , Hayes Robert , Baum Jean
Published: November 2022

Fibrillar collagen–integrin interactions in the extracellular matrix (ECM) regulate a multitude of cellular processes and cell signalling. Collagen I fibrils serve as the molecular scaffolding for connective tissues throughout the human body and are the most abundant protein building blocks in the ECM. The ECM environment is diverse, made up of several ECM proteins, enzymes, and proteoglycans. In particular, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), anionic polysaccharides that decorate proteoglycans, become depleted in the ECM with natural aging and their mis‐regulation has been linked to cancers and other diseases. The impact of GAG depletion in the ECM environment on collagen I protein interactions and on mechanical properties is not well understood. Here, we integrate ELISA protein binding assays with liquid high‐resolution atomic force microscopy (AFM) to assess the effects of GAG depletion on the interaction of collagen I fibrils with the integrin α2I domain using separate rat tails. ELISA binding assays demonstrate that α2I preferentially binds to GAG‐depleted collagen I fibrils in comparison to native fibrils. By amplitude modulated AFM in air and in solution, we find that GAG‐depleted collagen I fibrils retain structural features of the native fibrils, including their characteristic D‐banding pattern, a key structural motif. AFM fast force mapping in solution shows that GAG depletion reduces the stiffness of individual fibrils, lowering the indentation modulus by half compared to native fibrils. Together these results shed new light on how GAGs influence collagen I fibril–integrin interactions and may aid in strategies to treat diseases that result from GAG mis‐regulation.
The alarmone ppGpp selectively inhibits the isoform A of the human small GTPase Sar1
Authors: Huang Qingqiu , Szebenyi Doletha M. E.
Published: November 2022

Transport of newly synthesized proteins from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to Golgi is mediated by coat protein complex II (COPII). The assembly and disassembly of COPII vesicles is regulated by the molecular switch Sar1, which is a small GTPase and a component of COPII. Usually a small GTPase binds GDP (inactive form) or GTP (active form). Mammals have two Sar1 isoforms, Sar1a and Sar1b, that have approximately 90% sequence identity. Some experiments demonstrated that these two isoforms had distinct but overlapping functions. Here we found another instance of differing behavior: the alarmone ppGpp could bind to and inhibit the GTPase activity of human Sar1a but could not inhibit the GTPase activity of human Sar1b. The crystal structures of Sar1a⋅ppGpp and Sar1b⋅GDP have been determined. Superposition of the structures shows that ppGpp binds to the nucleotide‐binding pocket, its guanosine base, ribose ring and 5′‐diphosphate occupying nearly the same positions as for GDP. However, its 3′‐diphosphate points away from the active site and, hence, away from the surface of the protein. The overall structure of Sar1a⋅ppGpp is more similar to Sar1b⋅GDP than to Sar1b⋅GTP. We also find that the Asp140‐Arg138–water–ligand interaction net is important for the binding of ppGpp to Sar1a. This study provides further evidence showing that there are biochemical differences between the Sar1a and Sar1b isoforms of Sar1.
Time‐delay and parameter estimation for an ARX model based on copula theory and Armijo criterion and their applications in the modeling of the dynamics of the UAV
Authors: Jing Shaoxue , Chen Ling , Liu Ranran
Published: November 2022

Time‐delay dynamic systems are widely existed in industrial applications owing to the measure, control or other processes. To carry out system analysis, control and fault diagnosis, the identification of time‐delay systems becomes more and more important. This article considers the identification of time‐delay ARX models based on a novel two‐stage algorithm. Firstly, a 2‐copula criterion based time‐delay estimation method is presented by using a measure of dependence between the model input and output. This method can obtain the time delay without the estimates of the parameters. Secondly, a multi‐gradient algorithm with adaptive stacking length is studied. This algorithm accelerates traditional stochastic gradient algorithm by taking several recent gradients in each iteration. The stacking length, that is, the number of the gradient used in a step, is determined by the Armijo criterion. The proposed algorithm is validated by numerical experiments and the modeling of unmanned aerial vehicle data.
Robust discrete‐time output feedback stabilization of integrator chains
Authors: Carvajal‐Rubio José Eduardo , Alarcón‐Carbajal Martín Alfredo , Sánchez‐Torres Juan Diego , Defoort Michael , Rubio‐Astorga Guillermo Javier , Castro‐Palazuelos David Enrique , Djemai Mohamed , Loukianov Alexander G.
Published: November 2022

This work proposes a discrete‐time output feedback controller to stabilize an integrator chain system in the presence of measurement noise and external disturbances. Besides, two structural systems are considered, the first one is a system with a saturation in the control input. The second one is a system with an unbounded input. Since the system output is supposed to be periodically sampled and noisy, a discrete‐time filtering observer is designed. Hence, using the output of the observer, a discrete‐time controller is derived. The closed‐loop system convergence and robustness analysis are also presented. Simulation results are performed, aiming to illustrate the main characteristics of the proposal, including comparisons between the closed‐loop system with an explicit and implicit discrete‐time observer. Finally, having proved the features of the implicit realization, the controller with an implicit differentiator is implemented to control a DC–DC buck converter.
Effects of rainfall characteristics on bromide leaching in a typical tobacco field in China's Yunnan Province
Authors: Zou Congming , Zhang Hui , Yang Yang , Liu Yingna , Sun Haowei , Gao Xiaofei
Published: November 2022

Knowledge about water and solute transport in the vadose zone is critical for agrochemical management, especially for the tobacco cultivation characterized by extensive fertilizer and pesticide applications. Under the field conditions, however, natural soil heterogeneity complicates and limits the analysis of water and solute transport. Applying the scale‐dependent treatment distribution in a rainfall simulation experiment, the objective was to evaluate the impact of rainfall characteristics on bromide (Br−) leaching in a typical tobacco field in China's Yunnan Province. On a transect established with 24 plots, rainfall amount, intensity, and time delay relative to solute application were arranged in cyclic patterns at different spatial scales. Soil samples in 10‐cm increments down to 50 cm depth were collected for Br− determination after the simulated rainfall. The results display a significantly decreasing trend of Br− concentration with depth, suggesting the predominance of matrix diffusion over preferential flow at the scale of investigation in the intensively cultivated tobacco field. The Pearson correlation analysis only detected significant associations of Br− with rainfall intensity at the 0–10 cm depth and with rainfall amount at the 20–30 cm. With the aid of frequency‐domain analysis, by comparison, strong spatial correlations were revealed with rainfall characteristics at each depth, even with the presence of a plow pan at the depth of 30–40 cm due to deep tillage. Although the dominant control of Br− distribution varied with depth, these findings demonstrate the profound effects of rainfall characteristics on solute leaching and the usefulness of scale‐dependent treatment distribution in field‐scale investigations of solute transport as well as other hydrological processes.
Cluster analysis via random partition distributions
Authors: Dahl David B. , Andros Jacob , Carter J. Brandon
Published: November 2022

Hierarchical and k‐medoids clustering are deterministic clustering algorithms defined on pairwise distances. We use these same pairwise distances in a novel stochastic clustering procedure based on a probability distribution. We call our proposed method CaviarPD, a portmanteau from cluster analysis via random partition distributions. CaviarPD first samples clusterings from a distribution on partitions and then finds the best cluster estimate based on these samples using algorithms to minimize an expected loss. Using eight case studies, we show that our approach produces results as close to the truth as hierarchical and k‐medoids methods, and has the additional advantage of allowing for a probabilistic framework to assess clustering uncertainty. The method provides an intuitive graphical representation of clustering uncertainty through pairwise probabilities from partition samples. A software implementation of the method is available in the CaviarPD package for R.