bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The metabolic effects of multi-trace elements on parenteral nutrition for pediatric patients: A Randomized Control Trial and Metabolomic Research
Authors: Tan Qingti , Wang Yu , Zhang Guoying , Lu Bin , Wang Tao , Tao Tao , Wang He , Jiang Hua , Chen Wei
Published: March 2021

Objectives: The recommended dose of multi-trace element injection Ⅰ (MTEI-(Ⅰ)), and the effects of MTEI-(Ⅰ) on nutrient metabolism were investigated by supplementing different doses of multi-trace element parenteral nutrition (PN) to severe pediatric subjects. Methods: Enrolled subjects were randomly divided into two groups: Group A (low-dose group) received MTEI-(I) at 1 mL/kg/d, and Group B (high-dose group) received MTEI-(I) at 2 mL/kg/d, with a maximum dose of 15 mL/d. Patient blood samples before PN, and five day after treatment were collected for trace element detection and metabolomics analyses. Results: After 5 days treatment, white blood counts (WBC), nitrogen (N), chromium (Cr), total bilirubin (TB), direct bilirubin (DB) and albumin (ALB) levels in both groups were variably decreased; of which, WBC (p=0.011) and Cr (p=0.007) levels of subjects in Group B were significantly decreased; Overall, after 5 days of treatment, manganese (Mn) and copper (Cu) levels were decreased, zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se) levels were increased. The increase of Zn (A: 0.170±0.479 VS B：0.193±0.900)and decrease of Cu (A: -0.240±0.382 VS B: -0.373±0.465) of subjects in group B were particularly greater than those in group A. After 5 days treatment, valine, leucine, isoleucine degradation (α-ketoisovaleric acid) products, taurine and hypotaurine metabolism (hypotaurine), arginine and proline metabolism (phosphocreatine), ketone body metabolism (acetoacetic acid and acetone), and other metabolic outputs were decreased (p＜0.05). For Group B, β-oxidation of very long chain fatty acids (hexacosanoic acid), arginine and proline metabolism (phosphocreatine), pentose phosphate metabolism (D-ribose), ketone body metabolism (acetone), citric acid cycle (succinic acid), purine metabolism (adenine), caffeine metabolism (dimethylxanthine) and pyruvate metabolism (acetyl phosphate) were variably decreased (p＜0.05) when compared with Group A at T5. Conclusions: Our work suggested that the high-dose administration of MTEI-(I) is safe for severe pediatric patients. It may alleviate inflammation and antioxidation, relieved hyper caused by stress, improved tissues-based hypoxia, and improved renal function. (Trial registration: ChiCTR-IPR-17013037. Registered 19 October 2017, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=22327)
Contrasting structural complexity differentiate hunting strategy in an ambush apex predator
Authors: Říha Milan , Gjelland Karl Ø. , Děd Vilém , Eloranta Antti P. , Rabaneda-Bueno Ruben , Baktoft Henrik , Vejřík Lukáš , Vejříková Ivana , Draštík Vladislav , Šmejkal Marek , Holubová Michaela , Jůza Tomas , Rosten Carolyn , Sajdlová Zuzana , Økland Finn , Peterka Jiří
Published: March 2021

Structural complexity is known to influence prey behaviour, mortality and population structure, but the effects on predators has received less attention. We tested whether contrasting structural complexity in two newly colonised lakes (low structural complexity lake – LSC; high structural complexity - HSC) was associated with contrasting behaviour in an aquatic apex predator, Northern pike (Esox lucius; hereafter pike) present in the lakes. Behaviour of pike was studied with whole-lake acoustic telemetry tracking, supplemented by stable isotope analysis of pike prey utilization and survey fishing data on the prey fish community. Pike displayed increased activity, space use, individual growth as well as behavioural differentiation and spent more time in open waters in the LSC lake. Despite observed differences between lakes, stable isotopes analyses indicated a high dependency on littoral food sources in both lakes. We concluded that pike in the HSC lake displayed a behaviour consistent with a prevalent ambush predation behaviour, whereas the higher activity and larger space use in the LSC lake indicated a transition to more active search behaviour. It could lead to increased prey encounter and cause better growth in the LSC lake. Our study demonstrated how differences in structural complexity mediated prominent changes in the foraging behaviour of an apex predator, which in turn may have effects on the prey community.
Physiological and transcriptomic analyses reveal novel insights into the cultivar-specific response to alkaline stress in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)
Authors: Wei Tian-Jiao , Li Guang , Wang Ming-Ming , Jin Yang-Yang , Zhang Guo-Hui , Liu Miao , Yang Hao-Yu , Jiang Chang-Jie , Liang Zheng-Wei
Published: March 2021

Key message Candidate pathways for alkaline tolerance in alfalfa seedlings were identified; these included those for homeostasis of ions and redox status, biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, and amino acids, and MAPK signaling.Abstract Soil alkalization severely limits plant growth and development; however, the mechanisms of alkaline response remain largely unknown. In this study, we performed physiological and transcriptomic analyses using two alfalfa cultivars (Medicago sativa L.) with different sensitivities to alkaline conditions. The chlorophyll content and shoot fresh weight drastically declined in the alkaline-sensitive cultivar Algonquin (AG) following alkaline treatment (0-25 mM Na2CO3 solution), while the alkaline-tolerant cultivar Gongnong NO.1 (GN) maintained relatively stable growth and chlorophyll content. Physiological analysis revealed that compared with AG, GN had higher contents of Ca2+ and Mg2+; the ratios of Ca2+ and Mg2+ to Na+, proline and soluble sugar, and enzyme activities of peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) decreased under the alkaline conditions. Further, transcriptomic analysis identified three categories of alkaline-responsive differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the two cultivars: 48 genes commonly induced in both the cultivars (CAR), 574 genes from the tolerant cultivar (TAR), and 493 genes from the sensitive cultivar (SAR). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses showed that CAR genes were mostly involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, lipid metabolism, and DNA replication and repair; TAR genes were significantly enriched in metabolic pathways, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, MAPK signaling pathway, and flavonoid and amino acid biosynthesis; the SAR genes were specifically enriched in vitamin B6 metabolism. Taken together, the results identified candidate pathways associated with genetic variation in response to alkaline stress, providing novel insights into the mechanisms underlying alkaline tolerance in alfalfa.
Effect of Mn doping on structure, the dielectric and electric properties of BCZT ceramics
Authors: Ismail Khmiri , KRIAA Issa , KHEMAKHEM Hamadi
Published: March 2021

The synthesis of (Ba 0.99 Ca 0.01 )(Zr 0.2 Ti 0.8 )O 3 (BCZT) and doped (Ba 0.99 Ca 0.01 )(Zr 0.2 Ti 0.8-x Mn x )O 3 (BCZT-xMn) ceramics was successfully carried out by the solid-state method. The doping effect is followed by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and dielectric and conductivity measurements. Indeed, X-ray diffraction measurements show the crystalline structure of ceramics. SEM images indicate the doping effect on the studied perovskite microstructure. The results indicate that during doping the maximum value of the temperature (Tm) of the dielectric constant varies slightly, and there will be a considerable decrease in permittivity, dielectric losses and conductivity. Manganese ions are well integrated in the perovskite while maintaining the solid solution.
Bio-efﬁcacy of entomopathogenic nematodes, Steinernema feltiae and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora against the Cabbage butterfly Pieris brassicae (L.), under laboratory conditions
Authors: Kumar Kasi Indra , Singh Mohinder , Waiba Kanchhi Maya , Monika Sharma , Waseem MA , Gilhotra Himanshu
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Keeping in view the serious health and environmental apprehensions associated with the use of pesticides, entomopathogenic nematodes have the potential to supersede larvicidal activity for the management of various insect pests. RESULT: The lab experiments were conducted to test the pathogenicity of two EPNs species S. feltiaeand H. bacteriophora at different (IJs/cm2) concentrations against cabbage pests. Based on the pathogenicity of strains, only two isolates effectively show larvicidal activity. The native isolate was obtained from soil samples, collected from Rajgarh, Hamachi Pradesh, India. Petri dish bioassay use nematodes S. feltiae HR1 and H. bacteriophora HR2 species dose (0, 10, 20, 40, 80, 160/ IJs/cm2). The highest (%) 2nd instar larval mortality was recorded in treatments with H. bacteriophora and S. feltiae @ 160 /IJs/cm-2 were (72.08, 67.42 percent). And 4th instar larval mortality was recorded in treatment with H. bacteriophora, and S. feltiae @ 160 /IJs/cm-2 were (85.38,69.50 percent). The next best treatments in order of their efficacy’s pupae mortality were H. bacteriophora and S. feltiae @ 160 /IJs/cm-2 (74.12, percent) both are seam result, H. bacteriophora and S. feltiae @ 80 /IJs/cm-2 (62.12, 58.58 percent). Larvicidal activity after 48- and 72-hours exposure, the S. feltiae and H. bacteriophora (1.0, 1.30, 1.60, 1.90, 2.20 /IJs/cm2) showed potent larvicidal activity with LC50, LC75 and LC90 of all instars and pupae show high mortality. The strain inhibits the larval and pupal development 48 to 72 hr exposer time with LC50 range from 11.30 to 39.94, LC75 18.15 to 73.54, LC90 61.80 to 99.21.CONCLUSION: These studies demonstrate the challenge for cabbage butterfly P. brassicae. The local indigenous strains of EPNs (S. feltiae HR1, H. bacteriophora HR2) as a good biocontrol agent against, cruciferous vegetables crop pest P. brassicae.
Molecular Docking of Biosynthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles to Screen Their Impact on Fungal Pathogen of Carrot Plant
Authors: Khan Masudulla , Khan Azhar U. , Alam Javed , Parveen Aiman , Moon Il-Soo , Alam Mahboob , Cabral-Pinto Marina MS , Ahamed Maqusood , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Yadav Krishna
Published: March 2021

Zinc plays a key role in plants growth and application of Zinc can, therefore, contribute to crop yield improvement. Nowadays, nanoparticles have received high attention because to their novel properties. The current work is done with an aim to investigate the biosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and effect on fungus Rhizoctonia solani and on carrot crop. Use of nanoparticles as a nano-fertilizer requires an understanding of nanoparticles impact on crop plants We have used seed coat of almond for the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) characterized by EDS, FTIR, SEM and TEM. Spray with 50ppm and 100 ppm caused significant increase in plant growth parameter of carrot plants. It has been reported that the synthesized ZnO NPs demonstrated an inhibitory activity against plant pathogenic fungi R. solani. Antifungal efficiency of ZnONPs was further explained with help of Molecular docking analysis. Confirmation of the least binding energy was used to predict binding site of receptor with NPs to know mechanistic approach. ZnONPs are likely to interact with the pathogens by mechanical enfolding which may be one of the major toxicity actions against R. solani by ZnONPs.
Catalysis of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate to MeFox facilitates folate biofortification in crops
Authors: Zhang Chunyi , Jiang Ling , Guo Wenzhu , Wang Yanjing , Wen Weiwei , Wang Weixuan , Lian Tong , Liang Qiuju , Liu Ji'an , Liu Haijun , Xue Yuan , Pan Lixu , Liu Qiaoquan , Yin Ping , Zhang Delin , Yan Jianbing
Published: March 2021

Folate deficiency is a global health problem. Biofortification has been considered a cost-effective means to tackle this problem. Here, we describe the genetic cloning and functional identification of a previously uncharacterised plant protein, designated as CTM, which functions as an enzyme in folate metabolism. Plant CTMs are capable of catalysing 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate to MeFox, a pyrazino-s-triazine derivative of 4α-hydroxy-5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate. The natural asparagine-to-glycine substitution caused by an A-to-G single nucleotide variation in maize CTM enhances its enzymatic activity, as demonstrated by in vitro enzymatic assays and in silico analyses using a maize CTM structure model based on a monomeric sorghum CTM crystal. Loss of the CTM function led to accumulation of 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate, and overexpression of the maize CTM carrying the G-allele boosted the metabolic flow towards MeFox, and showed no negative impacts on plant growth. Our results suggest that CTM, which has evolved 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate-to-MeFox converting activity in plants, could be valuable for developing folate-biofortified crops to provide an alternative to the challenge presented by the global folate deficiency.
Cholesterol-induced LRP3 downregulation promotes cartilage degeneration in osteoarthritis by targeting SDC4
Authors: Cao Chenxi , Shi Yuanyuan , Xin Zhang , Li Qi , Zhang Jiaohao , Zhao Fengyuan , Meng Qingyang , Dai Wenli , Liu Zhenlong , Xiaoning Duan , Zhang Jiying , Fu Xin , Cheng Jin , Xiaoqing Hu , Ao Yingfang
Published: March 2021

Emerging evidence suggests that osteoarthritis (OA) is associated with high cholesterol levels. However, the specific mechanism remains unclear. Here, we found that cholesterol metabolism-related gene, LRP3 (low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 3) is significantly reduced in high-cholesterol diet mouse’s cartilage. By using global Lrp3−/− mice in vivo and LRP3 lentiviral vector-transduced chondrocytes in vitro, we identified that LRP3 positively regulated chondrocyte extracellular matrix metabolism, and its deficiency aggravated the degeneration of OA cartilage. Regardless of diet, LRP3 overexpression in cartilage attenuated anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT)-induced OA progression in rats. Furthermore, LRP3 knockdown upregulated syndecan-4 (SDC4) expression by activating the Ras signaling pathway. We identified SDC4 as a downstream molecular target of LRP3 in OA pathogenesis. Together, these findings suggest that the cholesterol-LRP3-SDC4 axis plays critical roles in the OA development, and the LRP3 gene therapy may provide a new therapeutic regimen for OA treatment.
How Does Industrial Digitalization Affect Enterprise Environmental Performance?
Authors: Wen Huwei , Lee Chien-Chiang , Song Ziyu
Published: March 2021

Despite the increasing use of digital technology in industrial production, how industrial digitalization affects the environmental performance of production activities remains unclear. This research contributes to the literature on the relationship between industrial digitalization and enterprise environmental performance by employing a large sample of Chinese manufacturing enterprises. Results indicate that the environmental performance of manufacturing enterprises has been significantly improved in the process of industrial digital transformation. Structural and technology effects are the influencing mechanisms. Industrial digitalization reduces the production scale of heavy polluting enterprises and improves product innovation and green total factor productivity, but it has an insignificant effect on total factor productivity. Moreover, industrial digitalization improves enterprise environmental performance by introducing front-end cleaner production technologies, rather than by increasing pipe-end pollutant treatment facilities.JEL Classification: Q56, O13, L86
Greater mastery is associated with lower depression risk in a large international cohort of people with multiple sclerosis over 2.5 years
Authors: Neate Sandra , Humam Afaf , Nag Nupur , Jelinek George , Simpson-Yap Steve
Published: March 2021

Background: Mastery is the extent to which an individual perceives their life circumstances as being under their control and not predominantly influenced by external factors. The relationship of mastery with clinical outcomes in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) has not been well-researched. We assessed the relationships of mastery with fatigue, disability, relapse number, and depression risk among pwMS over 2.5 years’ follow-up. Methods: Data from the Health Outcomes and Lifestyle in a Sample of people with Multiple sclerosis (HOLISM) study, among 839 participants who completed the 2.5 and 5-year reviews, were analysed. Mastery was measured by the Pearlin Mastery Scale, fatigue by Fatigue Severity Scale, depression risk by Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and disability by Patient-Determined Disease Steps, and diagnosed relapse number in the previous 12 months was queried. Cross-sectional and prospective analyses were undertaken by log-binomial, log-multinomial, and Poisson regression, as appropriate, adjusted for relevant confounders. Results: Cross-sectionally, pwMS with the highest quartile mastery (>25/28) had 90% lower depression risk, 60% lower frequency of clinically significant fatigue, and 77% fewer with severe disability, all largely robust to adjustment. Prospectively, those in the top two quartiles of mastery (>21-25, >25) had 66% and 74% lower depression risk, robust to adjustment. No significant associations were seen prospectively for change in fatigue, disability, or relapse number, however, and no robust associations of mastery with relapse number. Conclusions: Prospectively, a protective relationship of mastery with subsequent risk of depression was observed, suggesting this may be a point of intervention to improve wellbeing in pwMS.
Cross-Modality Coherent Registration of Whole Mouse Brains
Authors: Peng Hanchuan , Qu Lei , Li Yuanyuan , Xie Peng , Liu Lijuan , Wang Yimin , Wu Jun , Liu Yu , Wang Tao , Li Longfei , Guo Kaixuan , Wan Wan , Ouyang Lei , Xiong Feng , Zheng Yefeng , Xu Fang , Gong Hui , Dong Hongwei , Luo Qingming , Bi Guo-Qiang , Hawrylycz Michael , Zeng Hongkui
Published: March 2021

Recent whole brain mapping projects are collecting large-scale 3D images using powerful and informative modalities, such as STPT, fMOST, VISoR, or MRI. Registration of these multi-dimensional whole-brain images onto a standard atlas is essential for characterizing neuron types and constructing brain wiring diagrams. However, cross-modality image registration is challenging due to intrinsic variations of brain anatomy and artifacts resulted from different sample preparation methods and imaging modalities. We introduced a cross-modality registration method, called mBrainAligner, which uses coherent landmark mapping as well as deep neural networks to align whole mouse brain images to the standard Allen Common Coordinate Framework atlas. We also built a single cell resolution atlas using the fMOST modality, and used our method to generate whole brain map of 3D full single neuron morphology and neuron cell types.
All-optical pulse-train generation and distributed sensing through the temporal analogue of a laser
Authors: Sparapani Alexis Cristian , Fernández Germán , Sánchez Alfredo , Bonetti Juan , Linale Nicolás , Grosz Diego
Published: March 2021

We propose a novel scheme for the all-optical generation of pulse trains in optical fibers based on the reflection and refraction of pulses at a time boundary, and the temporal analogue of a laser cavity with gain. Furthermore, this scheme is shown to provide an original and simple way to measure distributed fiber parameters. In particular, we put forth an application of the temporal laser to the distributed sensing of the fiber group-velocity dispersion parameter.
Morphological Variation of the Baka Pygmies’ Deciduous Second Molars 
Authors: Šimková Petra G. , Weber Gerhard W. , Ramirez-Rozzi Fernando , Slimani Lotfi , Sadoine Jérémy , Fornai Cinzia
Published: March 2021

The Baka pygmies are known for their short stature resulting from a reduced growth rate during infancy. They are peculiar also for their teeth erupt earlier than in any other African population, and their posterior dentition is larger than in non-pygmies. However, the Baka’s dental morphology, as several other aspects of their biology, is still understudied. In this study we explore the Baka’s upper and lower second deciduous molars variation in comparison to a human sample including Africans, Asians, Europeans, and South Americans by means of 3D geometric morphometrics. We analyzed both the outer and inner aspect of the dental crowns, as well as their general size based on the natural logarithm of centroid sizes. Our results show largely overlapping morphologies between populations, especially for the lower molars. The distal region of the second molars is the most variable, with the Baka’s lower second molars showing the most extreme range of variation for this aspect and in terms of crown height. Upper and lower second molars showed high morphological covariation (RV=0.82). The Baka and South Americans’ second molars were confirmed among the largest in our sample. Despite of the Baka’s particular growth pattern, long-lasting isolation and extreme dental variation, it is not possible to distinguish them from other populations on the basis of their second molar morphology only.
Patterns of Physical Activity Parenting Practices Among Parent-Adolescent Dyads Who Participated in a Cross-Sectional Internet-Based Study
Authors: Thomson Jessica L , Landry Alicia S , Walls Tameka I
Published: March 2021

Background

While research exploring relationships between individual parenting practices and child physical activity (PA) exists, little is known about simultaneous use of practices. Hence, study objectives were to determine patterns of PA parenting practices and their associations with demographic, anthropometric, and PA measures in a large sample of parents and their adolescent children (12–17 years).
Methods

Dyadic survey data from Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating (FLASHE), a cross-sectional, internet-based study, conducted in 2014 were analyzed using latent class analysis on five PA parenting practices – pressuring, guided choice, expectations, facilitation, and modeling. Self-report model covariates included adolescent age and parent and adolescent sex, body mass index category (based on height and weight), legitimacy of parental authority regarding PA (PA-LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA).
Results

Based on 1166 parent-adolescent dyads, four latent classes were identified representing a continuum of practice use (high to low) – Complete Influencers (26%), Facilitating-Modeling Influencers (23%), Pressuring-Expecting Influencers (25%), and Indifferent Influencers (27%). Compared to dyads with parent underweight/healthy weight, dyads with parent overweight/obesity had 84% higher odds of belonging to Indifferent Influencers. Compared to dyads with adolescent underweight/healthy weight, dyads with adolescent overweight/obesity had 50% and 46% lower odds of belonging to Facilitating-Modeling and Indifferent Influencers. Odds of belonging to Pressuring-Expecting and Indifferent Influencers were less than 1% lower for every 1 minute/day increase in parent MVPA and 2% and 4% lower for every 1 minute/day increase in adolescent MVPA. Compared to dyads with high parental and adolescent agreement with PA-LPA, dyads with low agreement had between 3 and 21 times the odds of belonging to one of the other three classes.
Conclusions

Findings suggest that parents utilize distinct patterns of PA practices ranging from use of many, use of some, to low use of any practice and these patterns are differentially associated with parent and adolescent PA. When planning PA interventions, a counseling or intervening approach with parents to use combinations of practices, like facilitation and modeling, to positively influence their adolescents’ and possibly their own participation in PA may prove more efficacious than parental pressuring or lack of practice use.
Trial registration:
Not applicable.
The effect of contact areas on seepage behavior in 3D rough fractures under normal stress
Authors: Li Man , Liu Xianshan , Li Yu , Hou Zelin , Qiao Shihao
Published: March 2021

The investigation of fluid flow in fractured rocks is a key issue in underground engineering. Reservoir sandstones as a case study, three specimens with different roughness using the Brazilian splitting were scanned to get the geometric morphology and aperture distribution, and the fractal dimension was introduced to characterize the fracture roughness. The flow experiments through the rough fractures subjected to different normal stresses were conducted to analyze the influence of the fractal dimension and the contact ratio on the nonlinear flow behavior, proving that the Forchheimer equation could better describe the flow nonlinearity. A modified Bandis model based on the experiments was proposed to calculate the max normal displacement of fracture under different normal stresses. Besides, a new model to forecast the nonlinear coefficient B was developed depending on the fractal dimension and the contact ratio, and a semi-empirical equation was employed to describe the critical Reynolds number. The influence of contact on the seepage path is simulated by COMSOL.
Characterization of Commercial PLGAs by NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Sun Jing , Walker Jennifer , Beck-Broichsitter Moritz , Schwendeman Steve
Published: March 2021

Poly(lactic- co -glycolic acid) (PLGA) is among the most common of biodegradable polymers studied in various biomedical applications such as drug delivery and tissue engineering. To facilitate the understanding of the often overlooked PLGA microstructure on important factors affecting PLGA performance, we measured four key parameters of 17 commonly used commercial PLGA polymers (Resomer ®, Expansorb ®, Purasorb ®, Lactel ®, and Wako ® ) by NMR spectroscopy. 1 HNMR and 13 CNMR spectra were used to determine lactic to glycolic ratio (L/G ratio), polymer end-capping, glycolic blockiness ( Rc ), and average glycolic and lactic block lengths ( L G and L L ). In PLGAs with a labeled L/G ratio of 50/50 and acid end capping, the actual lactic content slightly decreased as molecular weight increased in both Resomer ® and Expansorb ®. Whether or not acid- or ester-, termination of these PLGAs was confirmed to be consistent with their brand labels. Moreover, in the ester end-capped 75/25 L/G ratio group, the blockiness value ( Rc ) of Resomer ® RG 756S ( Rc : 1.7) was highest in its group; whereas for the 50/50 acid end-capped group, Expansorb ® DLG 50-2A ( Rc : 1.9) displayed notably higher values than their counterparts. Resomer ® RG 502 ( L L : 2.6, L G : 2.5) and Expansorb ® DLG 50-2E ( L L : 2.5, L G : 2.6) showed the lowest block lengths, suggesting they may undergo a steadier hydrolytic process compared to random, heterogeneously distributed PLGA.
Biodegradation and detoxification of phenanthrene in in-vitro and in-vivo conditions by a newly isolated ligninolytic fungus Coriolopsis byrsina strain APC5 and characterization of their metabolites for environmental safety
Authors: Agrawal Nikki , Kumar Vineet , Shahi Sushil Kumar
Published: March 2021

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are recalcitrant organic pollutants generated from agricultural, industrial, and municipal sources, and their strong toxic, carcinogenic and teratogenic properties pose a harmful threat to human beings. The present study delas with the bioremediation of phenanthrene by a ligninolytic fungus, Coriolopsis byrsina strain APC5, isolated from the fruiting body of decayed wood surface. During the experiment, Coriolopsis byrsina strain APC5 was found as a promising organisms for the degradation and detoxification of phenanthrene (PHE) in in-vitro and in-vivo conditions. HPLC analysis showed that the C. byrsina strain degraded 99.90% of 20 mg/L PHE in in-vitro condition wheras 77.48% degradation of 50 mg/L PHE was reported in in-vivo condition. The maximum degradation of PHE was noted at pH 6.0 at 25 ºC temperature under shaking flask conditions. Further GC-MS analysis of fungal treated samples showed detection of 9, 10-Dihydroxy phenanthrene, 2, 2-Diphenic acid, phthalic acid, 4-heptyloxy phenol, benzene octyl and acetic acid anhydride as a metabolic products of degraded PHE. Furthermore, the phytotoxicity evaluation of degraded PHE was observed through the seed germination method using Vigna radiata and Cicer arietinum seeds. The phytotoxicity results showed that the seed germination index and vegetative growth parameters of plants were increased in the degraded PHE soil. As a result, C. byrsina strain APC5 was found to be a potential organism for the degradation and detoxification of PHE without showing any adverse effect of their metabolites.
Adsorption performance and mechanisms of mercaptans removal from gasoline oil using core-shell AC-based adsorbents: Role of intra-particles space
Authors: Ndagijimana Pamphile , Liu Xuejiao , Li Zhiwei , Xing Zhenjiao , Pan Beibei , Yu Guangwei , Wang Yin
Published: March 2021

Sulfur compound detection such as mercaptans in liquid fuels is undesirable because sulfur is the main sourcing emission of sulfur oxide (SOx) into the air. The use of activated carbon (AC) has proven to efficiently remove mercaptans. In the meantime, it is limited by the generation of the second pollution in oil, and the difficulties of recovery and regeneration. To address these issues, a core-shell structured AC with high mechanical strength and big intra-particles space were synthesized and demonstrated to efficiently remove organic pollutants from an aqueous solution without generation of the second pollution in our previous work. However, the performance, characteristics, and mechanism of mercaptans adsorption from gasoline oil by core-shell structured AC was still unclear. In this study, the mercaptans adsorption behaviors using core-shell powdered activated carbon (CSAC) and core-shell granulated activated carbon (CSGAC), along with raw PAC, PAC-core, raw GAC, and GAC-core were carried out. The results showed that both the CSAC and CSGAC adsorbents effectively removed sulfur-based pollutants and were provided with good recovery and recyclability without second pollution in gasoline oil. The CSGAC exhibited a higher mercaptans removal efficiency compared to those of CSAC as a result of the bigger intra-particles space. PAC-based adsorbents, presented the shrinking of removal efficiency after regeneration. The Pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir isotherms models were dominated for mercaptans adsorption by both CSAC and CSGAC. Furthermore, the interactions between mercaptans and the composites were probably ascribed to the Van der Waals force, hydrophobic compatibility, pore texture, and π-π dispersion interaction.
Preparation of novel imidazo[1,2-a]indole fluorophore and its application for detecting extreme pH of fungus
Authors: Xu Yanhao , Duan Ruikang , Liu Hao , Xia Chengcai , Duan Guiyun , ge yanqing
Published: March 2021

A novel pH fluorescent probe imidazo[1,2-a]indole derivative is reported. The probe is highly selective to strong acidic pH (pKa = 3.56) with high sensitivity and a fast response time (within 30 s). It is hardly interfered by ordinary metal ions and has good reversibility under strong acid conditions. The probe transfers charge under different pH conditions, and the response mechanism depends on the change of ICT. It can also be used for imaging in strong acidic Saccharomyces cerevisiae and detection of intracellular H+ as well.
ADAM10- and presenilin 1/g-secretase-dependent cleavage of PTPRT mitigates Neurodegeneration of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Liu Siling , Zhang Zhongyu , Li Lianwei , Yao Li , Ma Zhanshan , Li Jiali
Published: March 2021

BackgroundPTPRT (receptor-type tyrosine-protein phosphatase T), as a brain-specific type 1 transmembrane protein, plays an important function in neurodevelopment and synapse formation. However, whether PTPRT-dependent signaling is involved in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains elusive. MethodsWe have begun to address these questions by investigation of the relationship between Ab and PTPRT-dependent signaling in both postmortem human AD brain tissues, APP/PS1 mice, and different cell lines using biochemical and histological methods. Using RNAseq we analyzed gene expression regulated by PTPRT intracellular domain (PICD). We further assessed the function of PICD in AD brain using neuropathology, electrophysiology and animal behavior testing after conduction on APP/PS1 mice with overexpressing PICD in the hippocampus. ResultsA significant downregulation in the levels of Ptprt mRNA and protein was found in both human AD and disease model mouse brains. PTPRT intracellular domain (PICD), which was released from ADAM10- and presenilin 1-/g-secretase-dependent cleavage of PTPRT, efficiently translocated to the nucleus via a conserved nuclear localization signal. Inhibition of nuclear-localization of PICD via the mutation of its nuclear localization signal (NLS) leads to accumulation of phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (pSTAT3), which is a substrate of PTPRT and eventually resulted in neuronal cell death. RNA sequencing reveals that expression of the PICD alone can profoundly alter the expression of genes associated with synapse function and dephosphorylation et al. Overexpression of PICD alone not only significantly decreases the level of phosph-STAT3Y705 and Ab deposition in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice, but also improves synaptic function and behavioral deficits in APP/PS1 mice. ConclusionsAltogether, these findings suggest that a novel role of the ADAM 10- and presenilin 1-/g-secretase-dependent cleavage of PTPRT in the events can mitigate neurodegeneration of AD and moderate Alzheimer’s pathogenesis.
Improvement of the corrosion behavior of AISI 304L stainless steel by deep rolling treatment under cryogenic cooling
Authors: Gharbi Khouloud , Moussa Naoufel Ben , Rhouma Amir Ben , Fredj Nabil Ben
Published: March 2021

The effects of deep rolling parameters; particularly, work speed and cooling conditions (dry and cryogenic) on the surface integrity of AISI 304L machined samples and their further impact on uniform and localized corrosion behavior in chloride environment were experimentally investigated in this work. The electrochemical behavior of machined and deep rolled samples was assessed using cyclic potentiodynamic polarization tests in synthetic seawater. Findings of this study exhibit that grain refinement generated in the surface layers leads to improved corrosion behavior of deep rolled specimens with regard to machining state. In addition, machined samples deep rolled at a speed of 25 m/min, without cooling, showed better corrosion resistance than those processed under cryogenic cooling. However, the application of cryogenic deep rolling at speeds of 75 m/min and 120 m/min significantly enhanced the electrochemical behavior of mechanically treated specimens. It was found that the corrosion behavior of AISI 304L deep rolled components is related to combined factors (surface roughness, strain-induced martensite, microhardness, residual stress). Despite of high amounts of strain-induced martensite that can deteriorate the electrochemical behavior, it was shown that deep rolled specimens under cryogenic cooling with low surface roughness depict better uniform and localized corrosion resistances.
Investigating into the Employment and Income Inequality Nexus in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Gokhool Suneila , Ragoobur Verena Tandrayen , Kasseeah Harshana
Published: March 2021

This paper aims to examine the relationship between employment and income inequality in Sub-Saharan African countries. Even though the region has experienced a decade of positive economic growth, it has the second highest level of income inequality in the world. The drivers of income inequality are quantitatively investigated using data from 1991 to 2015 by the Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares technique. The results show that employment, trade and domestic investment reduce income inequality in the region in the long term. Higher trade tends to improve income equality in middle-income countries. Alternatively, domestic investment and trade have more potential to reduce inequality in low-income economies. Controlling corruption is essential in the long run for job creation, irrespective of the development stage of the country. There is thus evidence to show that policies must be oriented to more opportunities of employment, domestic investment, trade and good governance in terms of low corruption.
Quasi Oppositional Dragonfly Algorithm for Load Balancing in Cloud Computing Environment
Authors: TP Latchoumi , Parthiban Latha
Published: March 2021

In Cloud Computing (CC), load balancing tasks remain an essential problem of spreading resources from a data center to ensure that each Virtual Machine (VM) has a balanced load to achieve maximum utilization of its capabilities. In the CC world, load balancing is a Non-Polynomial (NP) problem solved with metaheuristic algorithms. A new Quasi Oppositional Dragonfly Algorithm for Load Balancing (QODA-LB) was developed to achieve the optimal resource scheduling in a CC setting. The proposed QODA-LB algorithm uses three variables to compute an objective function: run time, running cost, and load. The QODA-LB algorithm assigns tasks to VM based on its potential and the derivative objective function. Also, the QODA-LB algorithm uses the principle of Quasi-Oppositional Based Learning (QOBL) to increase the standard Dragonfly Algorithm's (DA) convergence rate. A comprehensive series of experiments were conducted, and the findings were analyzed in a variety of ways to ensure the efficient performance increased by the QODA-LB algorithm. The simulation's results demonstrated optimum load balancing efficiency and outperformed the leading approaches.
Assessment of Spatiotemporal Variability and Trend Analysis of Reference Crop Evapotranspiration for the southern region of Peninsular India
Authors: Ramachandra Jayashree Tenkila , Veerappa Subba Reddy Nandanavana , Udupi Dinesh Acharya
Published: March 2021

Accurate estimation of reference evapotranspiration (ET0) is an essential requirement for water resource management and scheduling agricultural activities. Several empirical methods have been employed in estimating ET0 across diverse climate regimes over the past decades. The Python implementation for estimation of daily and monthly ET0 values of representative stations of ten agro-climatic zones of Karnataka from 1979 through 2014 using the standard FAO Penman-Monteith method was carried out. The assessment of temporal and spatial variability of monthly ET0 values across the various agro-climatic zones done by the various statistical measures revealed that the variation in spatial ET0 values was higher than temporal indicating major differentiation of ET0 values was with respect to the stations rather than years under study. The non-parametric Mann-Kendall test conducted at 1% significance level on the annual ET0 values revealed that statistically significant increasing trend was observed for all the ten stations during the study period. The trend test conducted on the climate variables like mean air temperature, wind speed, relative humidity and solar radiation signify their influence the annual ET0 values. The magnitude changes in the trends detected by the Theil Sen’s slope indicated that increasing values of mean temperature, solar radiation and decreasing values of relative humidity predominantly contributed to the annual upward trend in ET0 values for the 10 stations. A trivial impact of wind speed on annual ET0 values was observed for the stations. Kalburgi and Udupi stations exhibited positive ET0 trend with the highest and lowest annual values among ten stations.
Nutrient resorption and adaptation strategy characteristics of two plantations in subtropical China­—Ecological stoichiometry
Authors: Pang Danbo , Ma Li , Wang Genzhu , An Miaoying , Chen Lin , Wan Long , Wu Xiuqin , Cao Jianhua , Zhou Jinxing
Published: March 2021

Background and aims

Leaf nutrients resorption is critical for considerations of how plants use and recycle nutrients in terrestrial ecosystems. However, information on nutrient resorption and adaptation strategies of the same plant species growing in areas with different geological backgrounds remain poorly understood.
Methods

We investigated one natural plantation of Pinus yunnanensis Franch. (PY) and one introduced plantation of Eucalyptus maideni F. Muell. (EM) growing under the same climatic conditions but different geological backgrounds (limestone, karst area vs clasolite, non-karst area) in Yunnan Province, China. The C, N, and P concentrations, nutrient restriction, nutrient resorption efficiency, stoichiometric homeostasis, and plant adaptation strategy indicators were investigated.
Results

The results showed that soil concentrations of C, N, and P were significantly higher in the karst areas compared to the non-karst areas both of the two plantations. Elemental composition of specific plant organs differed significantly between the two sites, while within sites, different organs showed different elemental compositions. In addition, leaf N: P ratios and leaf P resorption efficiencies indicated that plantations in subtropical China are mainly limited by P, which was more evident in the non-karst area. The PY plantation in both areas showed a “conservative consumption” nutrient use strategy, whereas the EM plantation in the two areas showed a “resource spending” nutrient use strategy.
Conclusions

Plants need to adapt physiologically and morphologically to the harsh conditions in karst areas, resulting in lower growth rates and biomass, more conservative nutrient use, and a high capacity to retain nutrients in the biomass. The findings of this study indicated that trees could synergistically accommodate leaf stoichiometry and nutrient resorption efficiencies in response to different soil types. Overall, our results provide support that the geological background should be considered during the process of vegetation restoration.
Renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system blockade with telmisartan prevents the decline in cardiac contractility orchiectomy-dependent in SHR: role of PPAR-γ activation
Authors: Silva Marito Afonso Sousa Costa , Almenara Camila , Birocale Antonio Marcos , Ávila Renata Andrade , Stefanon Ivanita , Bissoli Nazaré S , Padilha Alessandra
Published: March 2021

The present study aimed to investigate the beneficial role of AT1 receptor blockade and PPAR-γ activation in preventing cardiac contractile changes in hypertensive animals (SHR) with testosterone deficiency. Rats were divided into a control group (sham), orchiectomized (OCT), orchiectomized that received telmisartan (OCT + Tel) or telmisartan plus PPAR-γ antagonist (OCT + Tel + BADGE). After 8 weeks, contractility of isolated papillary muscles was evaluated. The OCT group showed a reduction in the contraction force, avoided in the OCT + Tel and Tel + BADGE groups. Post-pause potentiation (PPP) was similar in the Sham, OCT and OCT + Tel group, suggesting prevention of sarcoplasmic reticulum activity. In contrast, PPP in the OCT + Tel + BADGE group decreased. The reduction in response to calcium or isoproterenol in the OCT group was prevented in the OCT + Tel and Tel + BADGE group. The influx of calcium, assessed indirectly, although it was similar in the OCT and Sham groups, increased both in the OCT + Tel groups and in the OCT + Tel + BADGE groups. SERCA2a protein expression was increased in the OCT group, which was avoided in the OCT + Tel and Tel + BADGE group. NCX expression was increased in the Tel + BADGE group compared to OCT + Tel and sham. Our results suggest that AT1 receptor blockade with telmisartan prevents compromised papillary muscle contractility in SHR. Moreover, it has been shown that the activation of PPAR-γ adds benefits to the inhibition of renin-angiotensin system with telmisartan in preventing harmful effects on the contractility of hypertensive rats with testosterone deficiency.
Comprehensive Characterization of m6A Regulators-Mediated Methylation Modification Patterns and Tumor Microenvironment Signature in Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Jian , Jiang Huali , Hu Xiaoshan , Xie Tao , Du Kunpeng , Zhong Xi , Wang Baiyao , Cen Bohong , Chen Chengcong , Yuan Yawei
Published: March 2021

BackgroundRecent studies have identified the epigenetic regulation in the tumor immune microenvironment (TME). Nonetheless, RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification mediated TME cell infiltration in breast cancer is still unknown. MethodsHerein, we systematically explored m6A modification TME infiltration characteristics of 2249 breast cancer patients and comprehensively correlated the m6 A modification patterns with tumor immune landscape. The m6Ascore was established using principal component analysis. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to evaluate the prognostic value of the m6Ascore.ResultsThree m6A modification clusters were identified. The TME cell infiltration characteristics under m6A clusters were consistent with the tumor immune phenotypes (-excluded, -inflamed and -desert). The assessment of m6A modification clusters was able to estimate tumor stages, stromal activity (angiogenesis, CD8+ T effector and EMT), clinical prognosis and genomic mutation. The genetic alternation mediated by m6Ascore was also associated with enhanced response to targeted therapy and immunotherapy. ConclusionThis study demonstrated that m6A regulator-mediated methylation modification plays an important role in TME modulation. Thus, comprehensive evaluation of m6A modification patterns may enhances our understanding of TME modulation and presents a new approach toward targeted therapy and immunotherapeutic strategies for breast patients.
Transcriptomics-based drug repositioning pipeline identifies therapeutic candidates for COVID-19
Authors: Le Brian , Andreoletti Gaia , Oskotsky Tomiko , Vallejo-Gracia Albert , Ramirez Romel Rosales , Yu Katharine , Kosti Idit , Leon Kristoffer , Bunis Daniel , Li Christine , Kumar G. Renuka , White Kris , Garcia-Sastre Adolfo , Ott Melanie , Sirota Marina
Published: March 2021

The novel SARS-CoV-2 virus emerged in December 2019 and has few effective treatments. We applied a computational drug repositioning pipeline to SARS-CoV-2 differential gene expression signatures derived from publicly available data. We utilized three independent published studies to acquire or generate lists of differentially expressed genes between control and SARS-CoV-2-infected samples. Using a rank-based pattern matching strategy based on the Kolmogorov-Smirnov Statistic, the signatures were queried against drug profiles from Connectivity Map (CMap). We validated sixteen of our top predicted hits in live SARS-CoV-2 antiviral assays in either Calu-3 or 293T-ACE2 cells. Validation experiments in human cell lines showed that 11 of the 16 compounds tested to date (including clofazimine, haloperidol and others) had measurable antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. These initial results are encouraging as we continue to work towards a further analysis of these predicted drugs as potential therapeutics for the treatment of COVID-19.