bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-amputation reactive oxygen species production is necessary for axolotls limb regeneration
Authors: Carbonell-M Belfran , Zapata Cardona Juliana , Delgado Jean Paul
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) represent molecules of great interest in the field of regenerative biology since several animal models require their production to promote and favor tissue, organ, and appendage regeneration. Recently, it has been shown that the production of ROS such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is required for tail regeneration in Ambystoma mexicanum. However, to date, it is unknown whether ROS production is necessary for limb regeneration in this animal model. Methods: forelimbs of juvenile animals were amputated proximally and the dynamics of ROS production was determined using 2′7- dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) during the regeneration process. Inhibition of ROS production was performed using the NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin. Subsequently, a rescue assay was performed using exogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The effect of these treatments on the size and skeletal structures of the regenerated limb was evaluated by staining with alcian blue and alizarin red, as well as the effect on blastema formation, cell proliferation, immune cell recruitment, and expression of genes related to proximal-distal identity. Results: our results show that inhibition of post-amputation limb ROS production in the A. mexicanum salamander model results in the regeneration of a miniature limb with a significant reduction in the size of skeletal elements such as the ulna, radius, and overall autopod. Additionally, other effects such as decrease in the number of carpals, defective joint morphology, and failure of integrity between the regenerated structure and the remaining tissue were identified. In addition, this treatment affected blastema formation and induced a reduction in the levels of cell proliferation in this structure, as well as a reduction in the number of CD45+ and CD11b + immune system cells. On the other hand, blocking ROS production affected the expression of proximo-distal identity genes such as Aldha1a1, Rarβ, Prod1, Meis1, Hoxa13, and other genes such as Agr2 and Yap1 in early/mid blastema. Of great interest, the failure in blastema formation, skeletal alterations, as well as the expression of the genes evaluated were rescued by the application of exogenous H2O2, suggesting that ROS/H2O2 production is necessary from the early stages for proper regeneration and patterning of the limb.
Role of Aβ in Alzheimer’s-related synaptic dysfunction
Authors: Zhang Huiqin , Jiang Xuefan , Ma Lina , Wei Wei , Li Zehui , Chang Surui , Wen Jiayu , Sun Jiahui , Li Hao
Published: August 2022

Synaptic dysfunction is closely related to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) which is also recognized as synaptic disorder. β-amyloid (Aβ) is one of the main pathogenic factors in AD, which disrupts synaptic plasticity and mediates the synaptic toxicity through different mechanisms. Aβ disrupts glutamate receptors, such as NMDA and AMPA receptors, which mediates calcium dyshomeostasis and damages synapse plasticity characterized by long-term potentiation (LTP) suppression and long-term depression (LTD) enhancement. As Aβ stimulates and Ca2+ influx, microglial cells and astrocyte can be activated and release cytokines, which reduces glutamate uptake and further impair synapse function. Besides, extracellular glutamate accumulation induced by Aβ mediates synapse toxicity resulting from reduced glutamate receptors and glutamate spillovers. Aβ also mediates synaptic dysfunction by acting on various signaling pathways and molecular targets, disrupting mitochondria and energy metabolism. In addition, Aβ overdeposition aggravates the toxic damage of hyperphosphorylated tau to synapses. Synaptic dysfunction plays a critical role in cognitive impairment of AD. The review addresses the possible mechanisms by which Aβ mediates AD-related synaptic impairment from distant perspectives.
Multimodal regulation of the osteoclastogenesis process by secreted group IIA phospholipase A2
Authors: Mangini Maria , D’Angelo Rosa , Vinciguerra Caterina , Payré Christine , Lambeau Gérard , Balestrieri Barbara , Charles Julia F. , Mariggiò Stefania
Published: August 2022

Increasing evidence points to the involvement of group IIA secreted phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-IIA) in pathologies characterized by abnormal osteoclast bone-resorption activity. Here, the role of this moonlighting protein has been deepened in the osteoclastogenesis process driven by the RANKL cytokine in RAW264.7 macrophages and bone-marrow derived precursor cells from BALB/cJ mice. Inhibitors with distinct selectivity toward sPLA2-IIA activities and recombinant sPLA2-IIA (wild-type or catalytically inactive forms, full-length or partial protein sequences) were instrumental to dissect out sPLA2-IIA function, in conjunction with reduction of sPLA2-IIA expression using small-interfering-RNAs and precursor cells from Pla2g2a knock-out mice. The reported data indicate sPLA2-IIA participation in murine osteoclast maturation, control of syncytium formation and resorbing activity, by mechanisms that may be both catalytically dependent and independent. Of note, these studies provide a more complete understanding of the still enigmatic osteoclast multinucleation process, a crucial step for bone-resorbing activity, uncovering the role of sPLA2-IIA interaction with a still unidentified receptor to regulate osteoclast fusion through p38 SAPK activation. This could pave the way for the design of specific inhibitors of sPLA2-IIA binding to interacting partners implicated in osteoclast syncytium formation.
Decoding histone ubiquitylation
Authors: Chen Jennifer J. , Stermer Dylan , Tanny Jason C.
Published: August 2022

Histone ubiquitylation is a critical part of both active and repressed transcriptional states, and lies at the heart of DNA damage repair signaling. The histone residues targeted for ubiquitylation are often highly conserved through evolution, and extensive functional studies of the enzymes that catalyze the ubiquitylation and de-ubiquitylation of histones have revealed key roles linked to cell growth and division, development, and disease in model systems ranging from yeast to human cells. Nonetheless, the downstream consequences of these modifications have only recently begun to be appreciated on a molecular level. Here we review the structure and function of proteins that act as effectors or “readers” of histone ubiquitylation. We highlight lessons learned about how ubiquitin recognition lends specificity and function to intermolecular interactions in the context of transcription and DNA repair, as well as what this might mean for how we think about histone modifications more broadly.
Construction of a novel exosomes-related gene signature in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tao Qiqi , Zhu Kai , Zhan Yating , Zhang Rongrong , Lang Zhichao , Yu Zhengping , Wang Meng
Published: August 2022

Background: Exosomes are extracellular vesicles between 40 and 150 nm in diameter and are cargoes for a wide range of small biological molecules. Recent studies have reported that lncRNAs, miRNAs, circRNAs in serum exosomes may serve as biomarkers to predict hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prognosis. However, the prognostic values of exosomes-related mRNAs in HCC are still unclear.

Methods: Data of HCC patients were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The serum exosome sequencing data of HCC patients and healthy individuals were obtained from the exobase database. Univariate cox regression analysis was used to identify prognostic exosomes-related genes. LASSO and multivariate cox regression analyses were applied to construct prognostic signature.

Results: 22 exosomes-related mRNAs differentially expressed between HCC tissues and normal tissues were identified. Then, 8 prognostic exosomes-related mRNAs were screened. Subsequently, G6PD and ADAMTS5, selected by LASSO and multivariate cox regression analyses, were used to construct a prognostic signature. The patients with high-risk scores had a poor prognosis in TCGA cohort as well as ICGC cohort. Notably, this prognostic signature was also validated in a local cohort collected from the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analyses indicated that the signature had a good performance in all the cohorts. The gene set enrichment analysis revealed that this signature was associated with cell cycle and metabolism pathways. Immune infiltration analysis indicated that the patients with high-risk scores had a higher M0 macrophages infiltration. The univariate and multivariate cox regression analyses identified that the risk score is an independent risk factor for HCC. In addition, a nomogram containing age, gender, stage and risk score was constructed to precisely predict HCC prognosis.

Conclusion: In conclusion, we develop a novel exosomes-related gene signature that helps to predict HCC prognosis.
Carboxylated graphene oxide nanosheets as efficient electrodes for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Abdu Hassan Idris , Hamouda Hamouda Adam , Orege Joshua Iseoluwa , Ibrahim Mohammed Hassan , Ramadan Anas , Aboudou Taslim , Zhang Hongxia , Pei Jinjin
Published: August 2022

In the presence of dry ice, a series of graphitic materials with carboxylated edges (ECGs) were synthesized by ball milling graphite for varied times (24, 36, and 46 h). The influence of carboxylation on the physiochemical characteristics and electrochemical performance as effective electrodes for supercapacitors were assessed and compared with pure graphite. Several characterization techniques were employed to investigate into the morphology, texture, microstructure, and modification of the materials. Due to its interconnected micro-mesoporous carbon network, which is vital for fast charge-discharge at high current densities, storing static charges, facilitating electrolyte transport and diffusion, and having excellent rate performance, the ECG-46 electrode among the investigated samples achieved the highest specific capacitance of 223 F g−1 at 0.25 A g−1 current density and an outstanding cycle stability, with capacitance retention of 90.8% for up to 10,000 cycles. Furthermore, the symmetric supercapacitor device based on the ECG-46 showed a high energy density of 19.20 W h kg−1 at 450.00 W kg−1 power density. With these unique features, ball milling of graphitic material in dry ice represents a promising approach to realize porous graphitic material with oxygen functionalities as active electrodes.
Characteristics of salivary microbiota in children with obstructive sleep apnea: A prospective study with polysomnography
Authors: Huang Xin , Chen Xuehui , Gong Xu , Xu Ying , Xu Zhifei , Gao Xuemei
Published: August 2022

Objectives

The present study aimed to investigate the characteristics of salivary microbiota of children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and to assess longitudinal alterations in salivary microbiota before and after adenotonsillectomy.

Methods

A set of cross-sectional samples consisted of 36 OSA children (17 boys and 19 girls, 7.47 ± 2.24 years old) and 22 controls (9 boys and 13 girls, 7.55 ± 2.48 years old) were included in the study, among which eight OSA children (five boys and three girls, 8.8 ± 2.0 years old) who underwent treatment of adenotonsillectomy were followed up after 1 year. Saliva samples were collected, and microbial profiles were analyzed by bioinformatics analysis based on 16S rRNA sequencing.

Results

In cross-sectional samples, the OSA group had higher α-diversity as estimated by Chao1, Shannon, Simpson, Pielou_e, and observed species as compared with the control group (p < 0.05). β-Diversity based on the Bray–Curtis dissimilarities (p = 0.004) and Jaccard distances (p = 0.001) revealed a significant separation between the OSA group and control group. Nested cross-validated random forest classifier identified the 10 most important genera (Lactobacillus, Escherichia, Bifidobacterium, Capnocytophaga, Bacteroidetes_[G-7], Parvimonas, Bacteroides, Klebsiella, Lautropia, and Prevotella) that could differentiate OSA children from controls with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.94. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis revealed a significantly higher abundance of genera such as Prevotella (p = 0.027), Actinomyces (p = 0.015), Bifidobacterium (p < 0.001), Escherichia (p < 0.001), and Lactobacillus (p < 0.001) in the OSA group, among which Prevotella was further corroborated in longitudinal samples. Prevotella sp_HMT_396 was found to be significantly enriched in the OSA group (p = 0.02) with significantly higher levels as OSA severity increased (p = 0.014), and it had a lower abundance in the post-treatment group (p = 0.003) with a decline in each OSA child 1 year after adenotonsillectomy.

Conclusions

A significantly higher microbial diversity and a significant difference in microbial composition and abundance were identified in salivary microbiota of OSA children compared with controls. Meanwhile, some characteristic genera (Prevotella, Actinomyces, Lactobacillus, Escherichia, and Bifidobacterium) were found in OSA children, among which the relationship between Prevotella spp. and OSA is worth further studies.
Design and implementation of high-order PID for second-order processes with time delay
Authors: Han Wenjie , Hu Xingqi , Damiran Ulemj , Tan Wen
Published: August 2022

In this study, a state-space pole placement approach is first proposed to design high-order PID controllers for high-order processes. The method makes use of a single parameter to determine the locations of closed-loop poles; thus, a high-order PID controller can be tuned with this parameter. To implement the high-order PID controller in practice, an observer-based PID structure is proposed. The structure utilizes a model-free observer to estimate the plant output and its derivatives, thus retaining the high-order PID structure but can filter the measurement noise and make the high-order derivatives of the plant output available for control. The proposed method is applied to design high-order PID controllers for second-order processes with time delay. Simulation results show that high-order PID can indeed improve the performance of conventional PID controllers for second-order processes with time delay in disturbance rejection and robustness.
Growth differentiation factor-15 as a biomarker of atherosclerotic coronary plaque: Value in people living with and without HIV
Authors: Royston Léna , Isnard Stéphane , Perrin Nils , Sinyavskaya Liliya , Berini Carolina , Lin John , Trottier Benoit , Baril Jean-Guy , Chartrand-Lefebvre Carl , Tremblay Cecile , Durand Madeleine , Routy Jean-Pierre
Published: August 2022

Background

Increased rates of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and larger subclinical high-risk coronary plaques in coronary CT angiography have been observed in people living with HIV (PLWH) treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART) compared to HIV-uninfected people. Growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) is a cytokine emerging as an optimal marker for CVD in the general population.

Methods

We cross-sectionally analyzed plasma of 95 PLWH on ART and 52 controls. We measured GDF-15, fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21), glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2), soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR), CRP, and anti-CMV and anti-EBV IgG levels. All participants had no clinical CVD and underwent coronary CT angiography with the 3D reconstruction of coronary artery atherosclerotic plaques. Total plaque volume (TPV) and low attenuation plaque volume (LAPV, defined as density <30 Hounsfield Units) were calculated (mm3).

Results

In both PLWH and controls, GDF-15 levels were increased in participants with presence of coronary plaque vs. without (p = 0.04 and p < 0.001, respectively) and correlated with TPV (r = 0.27, p = 0.009 and r = 0.62, p < 0.001, respectively) and LAPV (r = 0.28, p = 0.008, r = 0.60, p < 0.001, respectively). However, in a multivariate model, GDF-15 was independently associated with LAPV in controls only (adjusted OR 35.1, p = 0.04) and not in PLWH, mainly due to confounding by smoking. Other markers were not independently associated with plaque volume, except for anti-EBV IgGs in controls (adjusted OR 3.51, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

In PLWH, GDF-15 and smoking seemed to synergistically contribute to coronary plaque volume. Conversely, increased GDF-15 levels were associated with the presence of coronary artery plaques in people without HIV, independently of CV risk factors.
Land Lapse Phenomenon and Surface Subsidence Law of Shield Tunnel Passing Through Rock-Bearing Formation
Authors: Guangming Yu , Pengju Xia , Yongyi Zhang , Qimeng Shi , Jun Lei , Pengfei Song , Zhiwen Tan , Hao Liu , Ze Chen
Published: August 2022

When constructing subway tunnels in coastal cities, boulders with high strength and large volume are often encountered. A large number of engineering practices have shown that the existence of boulders will destroy the unity and homogeneity of the stratum. If the tunnel is not properly handled during crossing construction, it will lead to the collapse of surrounding rock; in serious cases, it may induce ground collapse, damage the surrounding buildings, and endanger the safety of people’s lives and property. Firstly, with the help of similar material simulation test, this paper reproduces the phenomenon of vault collapse and surface collapse when the tunnel passes through the boulder stratum, explores the law of stratum collapse and surface settlement caused by the boulder in the process of tunnel excavation, and puts forward the “weightlessness weak surface effect” of the boulder stratum disturbed. Then, taking the Liu-Bai inter-district tunnel project of Shenzhen Metro Line 13 as an example, Midas GTS NX numerical simulation software is used to compare and analyze the influence characteristics of surrounding rock deformation and surface settlement caused by the presence or absence of boulders in the tunnel through the stratum and verify the “weightlessness weak surface effect” of the boulder stratum disturbed. Finally, the engineering treatment measures for the Liu-Bai inter-district tunnel project of Shenzhen Metro Line 13 crossing the boulder stratum are given. The research results are of great significance to guide the prediction and treatment of collapse and surface settlement when crossing the boulder stratum in the tunnel construction project.
The reconstruction of Holocene northwestern Mongolian fire history based on high-resolution multi-site macro-charcoal analyses
Authors: Unkelbach Julia , Behling Hermann
Published: August 2022

In palaeoecology, multi-site macro-charcoal analyses provide information on climate–fire–vegetation linkages, their spatial and temporal extent, and the impact of prehistoric human practices. Our multi-site study comprises eight macro-charcoal records from two highly continental forest-steppe regions in western and north-central Mongolia, covering the Holocene. In addition to reviewing macro-charcoal influxes and comparing macro-charcoal morphotype results with arboreal/non-arboreal pollen ratios, our dataset provides the first fire frequency synthesis for two regions in Mongolia. During the early and mid-Holocene, the fire history in western and north-central Mongolia was controlled by the regional climate variability, whereas the fire intensities were higher in the Mongolian Altai. In general, fire frequencies are lower in northern Khangai. Increases in the fire frequency correlate with the potential beginning of a rise in the nomadic population of the Mongolian Altai after 1,100 cal yr BP. In both areas, individual macro-charcoal peaks, a marked site-to-site variability, and a generally very low impact on the forest-steppe distribution may mostly be explained by a strictly local nomadic disturbance.
Vertical velocity at hydrostatic and anisotropic stresses
Authors: Muqtadir Arqam , Al-Dughaimi Saud , Alzaki Taqi , Dvorkin Jack
Published: August 2022

Sonic and dipole wireline tools measure Vp and Vs along the vertical direction. The state of stress in the subsurface is predominantly anisotropic, while most laboratory experiments measuring the dynamic elastic properties are conducted under hydrostatic stress. The question we ask is whether such laboratory experiments provide the velocities that are close to those measured in the vertical wellbore where the stresses are anisotropic. To address this question, we conducted ultrasonic pulse transmission experiments on several room-dry rock samples. The comparison was made between the P- and S-wave velocities obtained at pure hydrostatic loading conditions and those at a smaller hydrostatic stress with added axial stress, so that the total stress along the axis of a cylindrical plug was the same as under pure hydrostatic loading. These differences were significant in the extreme case of only 1 MPa hydrostatic confining stress with the axial stress increasing up to 40 MPa. However, as the hydrostatic (confining) stress increased, the differences between the velocities along the axis of the sample became smaller and smaller. For example, at 1 MPa confining and 30 MPa axial stress, the relative difference in Vp was about 10%, while that in Vs was about 20%. However, at 10 MPa confining stress, these differences became about 3% and 6%, respectively, and further decreased as the confining stress increased. This means that even at strong in-situ contrasts between the vertical and horizontal stresses, the results of laboratory hydrostatic experiments can be used for in-situ velocity estimates. These results also appear to be consistent with a theoretical model that predicts the directional velocities at any triaxial stress conditions from those measured versus hydrostatic stress.
Anisotropy of the T vs. H phase diagram and the HO/LMAFM phase boundary in URu2−xFexSi2
Authors: Pouse N. , Deng Y. , Ran S. , Graf D. , Lai Y. , Singleton J. , Balakirev F. F. , Baumbach R. E. , Maple M. B.
Published: August 2022

The correlated f-electron compound URu2Si2 exhibits superconductivity (SC) with a critical temperature Tc = 1.5 K that coexists with the “hidden order” (HO) phase that forms below a characteristic temperature T0 = 17.5 K. The SC of URu2Si2 appears to be spin singlet chiral SC with d-wave order parameter symmetry, and the pairing of SCing electrons may involve spin excitations of the HO phase. Electrical resistance R measurements were performed on single crystal specimens of URu2−xFexSi2 with increasing x throughout the transition from the HO phase to the large moment antiferromagnetic LMAFM phase in high magnetic fields H oriented at various angles θ with respect to the tetragonal c-axis. Measurements of R(θ) at H = 20, 33, 40, and 45 T were conducted in the temperature range 0.33 ≤ T ≤ 20 K and showed θ-dependent behavior in the various phase transitions of URu2−xFexSi2 (HO, LMAFM, spin density wave, Fermi surface reconstruction, etc.). These phase transitions, as functions of T, H, and θ are plotted in a phase diagram of T vs. H//c = Hcosθ for multiple values of x and show that H//c, not θ is a tuning parameter of the URu2−xFexSi2 system throughout all Fe concentrations, as previously found by Scheereret al. for the URu2Si2 parent compound.
Disorders of the adrenal cortex: Genetic and molecular aspects
Authors: Pitsava Georgia , Maria Andrea G. , Faucz Fabio R.
Published: August 2022

Adrenal cortex produces glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids and adrenal androgens which are essential for life, supporting balance, immune response and sexual maturation. Adrenocortical tumors and hyperplasias are a heterogenous group of adrenal disorders and they can be either sporadic or familial. Adrenocortical cancer is a rare and aggressive malignancy, and it is associated with poor prognosis. With the advance of next-generation sequencing technologies and improvement of genomic data analysis over the past decade, various genetic defects, either from germline or somatic origin, have been unraveled, improving diagnosis and treatment of numerous genetic disorders, including adrenocortical diseases. This review gives an overview of disorders associated with the adrenal cortex, the genetic factors of these disorders and their molecular implications.
Prevention of salivary gland dysfunction in patients treated with radioiodine for differentiated thyroid cancer: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Auttara-atthakorn Arunrat , Sungmala Jaruwan , Anothaisintawee Thunyarat , Reutrakul Sirimon , Sriphrapradang Chutintorn
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Salivary gland dysfunction (e.g., sialadenitis and xerostomia) is the most common complication of radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy for differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). Several methods have been used to reduce/prevent this adverse effect. We aimed to systematically review the effectiveness of non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions in preventing RAI-induced salivary gland dysfunction in patients with DTC.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted, according to PRISMA guidelines. The protocol was registered (PROSPERO: CRD42022295229). PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library electronic databases were searched from inception to November 2021. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials of DTC patients who were older than 18 years and underwent RAI after thyroidectomy in which at least one studied group received an intervention to prevent salivary gland dysfunction.

Results

Twelve studies (a total of 667 participants) were included. Among DTC patients who were treated with RAI, nonpharmacological treatment such as parotid gland massage and aromatherapy ameliorated salivary gland dysfunction. Antioxidants such as vitamin E and selenium demonstrated radioprotective effects on the salivary gland, while other antioxidants did not show radioprotective benefits. Vitamin C showed no significant effects on preventing salivary gland dysfunction. Amifostine had inconsistent outcomes among studies. Among cholinergic agonists, pilocarpine did not demonstrate the radioprotective effect on parotid glands, while bethanechol lowered salivary gland dysfunction. However, the negative results from pilocarpine may be explained by the strong sialorrheic effect of the Cincinnati regimen in both study arms.

Conclusion

Among non-pharmacological and pharmacological methods, parotid gland massage, aromatherapy, vitamin E, selenium, amifostine, and bethanechol may have benefits in minimizing RAI-induced salivary gland dysfunction in patients with DTC. The results are limited by a small number of patients and should be confirmed in future larger randomized controlled trials.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=295229, PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022295229.
Interhemispheric asymmetry of the brain in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus and cognitive impairment
Authors: Samoilova Yulia Gennadevna , Matveeva Mariia Vladimirovna , Tonkih Olga Sergeevna , Kudlay Dmitry Anatolievich , Oleynik Oxana Alekseevna , Aremu Stephen Olaide , Kilina Oksana Yurievna , Kanev Alexander Federovich , Gerget Olga Mihailovna
Published: August 2022

With an ageing of population and a splurging epidemic of diabetes mellitus (DM), the prevalence of complications associated with pathology of the central nervous system are expected to increase, which in the future may have serious consequences for public health. It is known that one of the main manifestations of brain damage in type 1 diabetes is cognitive impairment, which is possibly associated with the peculiarities of vascularization and interhemispheric asymmetry, which requires in-depth analysis using modern neuroimaging methods. The aim of the study is to assess the symmetry of structural, metabolic and neurovascularization changes in the brain in patients with type 1 diabetes and cognitive impairment. The study included 120 patients with type 1 diabetes aged 18 to 45 years suffering from cognitive impairment, and 30 people without cognitive decline and the control group (n=30) healthy people without diabetes. Neuropsychological testing included the Montreal Cognitive Dysfunction Assessment Scale (MoCA test). For neuroimaging methods, standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), contrast and non-contrast-enhanced perfusion were used. Statistical processing was carried out using the SPSS Statistic 2020 software. In patients with type 1 diabetes with cognitive impairment, as manifested by impaired memory and/or attention, perfusion imaging revealed the presence of brain asymmetry zones. Standard MRI allowed to demonstrate changes in the white, gray matter and hippocampus in the right hemisphere. The results obtained were refined taking into account the topical localization, so during the perfusion study, regions with asymmetric blood flow were identified - namely, the white matter of the frontal lobe and the gray matter in the occipital lobe. Spectroscopy of the brain revealed that it was in these areas of the brain that the most significant metabolic disorders were noted – in the form of significantly altered ratio of N-acetylaspartate (NAA)/choline (Cho) on the left, along with the asymmetry in phosphocreatine level (Cr 2) on the right. In conclusion, early preclinical predictive diagnostics with the use of modern neuroimaging methods allows for timely detection of impaired vascularization and brain metabolism in this group of patients, However, decreased perfusion in the region within the region of frontal lobe white matter and temporal lobe grey matter, and hippocampal cell metabolism by spectra should be highlighted among the parameters Cr right and NAA/Cho left.
Using human urinary extracellular vesicles to study physiological and pathophysiological states and regulation of the sodium chloride cotransporter
Authors: Wu Aihua , Wolley Martin J. , Fenton Robert A. , Stowasser Michael
Published: August 2022

The thiazide-sensitive sodium chloride cotransporter (NCC), expressed in the renal distal convoluted tubule, plays a major role in Na+, Cl- and K+ homeostasis and blood pressure as exemplified by the symptoms of patients with non-functional NCC and Gitelman syndrome. NCC activity is modulated by a variety of hormones, but is also influenced by the extracellular K+ concentration. The putative “renal-K+ switch” mechanism is a relatively cohesive model that links dietary K+ intake to NCC activity, and may offer new targets for blood pressure control. However, a remaining hurdle for full acceptance of this model is the lack of human data to confirm molecular findings from animal models. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have attracted attention from the scientific community due to their potential roles in intercellular communication, disease pathogenesis, drug delivery and as possible reservoirs of biomarkers. Urinary EVs (uEVs) are an excellent sample source for the study of physiology and pathology of renal, urothelial and prostate tissues, but the diverse origins of uEVs and their dynamic molecular composition present both methodological and data interpretation challenges. This review provides a brief overview of the state-of-the-art, challenges and knowledge gaps in current uEV-based analyses, with a focus on the application of uEVs to study the “renal-K+ switch” and NCC regulation. We also provide recommendations regarding biospecimen handling, processing and reporting requirements to improve experimental reproducibility and interoperability towards the realisation of the potential of uEV-derived biomarkers in hypertension and clinical practice.
A Fundamental Moving Boundary Problem of 1D Commingled Preferential Darcian Flow and Non-Darcian Flow Through Dual-Layered Porous Media
Authors: Wang Ping , Liu Wenchao , Ding Wei , Kong Xiangwen , Fan Hailiang
Published: August 2022

In consideration of vertical formation heterogeneity, a basic nonlinear model of 1D commingled preferential Darcian flow and non-Darcian flow with the threshold pressure gradient (TPG) in a dual-layered formation is presented. Non-Darcian flow in consideration of the TPG happens in the low-permeability tight layer, and the Darcian kinematic equation holds in the other high-permeability layer. The similarity transformation method is applied to analytically solve the model. Moreover, the existence and uniqueness of the analytical solution are proved strictly. Through analytical solution results, some significant conclusions are obtained. The existence of the TPG in the low-permeability tight layer can intensify the preferential Darcian flow in the high-permeability layer, and the intensity of the preferential Darcian flow is very sensitive to the dimensionless layer thickness ratio. The effect of the layer permeability ratio and layer elastic storage ratio on the production sub-rate is more sensitive than that of the layer thickness ratio. In addition, it is strictly demonstrated that moving boundary conditions caused by the TPG should be incorporated into the model. When the moving boundary is neglected, the preferential Darcian flow in the high-permeability layer will be exaggerated. Eventually, solid theoretical foundations are provided here, which are very significant for solving non-Darcian seepage flow problems in engineering by numerical simulation validation and physical experiment design. Furthermore, they are very helpful for better understanding the preferential flow behavior through the high-permeability paths (such as fractures) in the water flooding development of heterogeneous low-permeability reservoirs; then, the efficient profile control technology can be further developed to improve oil recovery.
Price-based low-carbon demand response considering the conduction of carbon emission costs in smart grids
Authors: Yang Chao , He Binghao , Liao Huanxin , Ruan Jiaqi , Zhao Junhua
Published: August 2022

The rapid development of the Industrial Internet-of-Things extends demand response (DR) research to the aspect of low-carbon emission in smart grids. This study proposed the concept of low-carbon DR (LCDR) in the electricity market as well as the price-based LCDR mechanism and its model. First, carbon cost conduction from the generation side to the demand side was analyzed, and then conduction function was quantifiably deduced. Second, the mechanism and model of price-based LCDR were proposed by considering three DR signals, namely, the electricity price, carbon price, and carbon emission intensity of the demand side, based on the traditional price-based DR (PBDR) mechanism. Third, the proposed LCDR mechanism was applied to the environmental–economic dispatch optimization problem. At last, case studies on the modified IEEE 39-bus system verified that the LCDR mechanism can reduce carbon emissions while maintaining the function of the traditional PBDR. Meanwhile, the applicability of LCDR was illustrated based on carbon emission sensitivity to LCDR model parameters. The proposed mechanism can guide participants in the electricity market in reducing electricity carbon emissions.
Thermal characteristics of kerosene oil-based hybrid nanofluids (Ag-MnZnFe2O4): A comprehensive study
Authors: Ahmad Sohail , Ali Kashif , Haider Tahir , Jamshed Wasim , Tag El Din El Sayed M. , Hussain Syed M.
Published: August 2022

Hybrid nanofluids are new and most fascinating types of fluids that involve superior thermal characteristics. These fluids exhibit better heat-transfer performance as equated to conventional fluids. Our concern, in this paper, is to numerically interpret the kerosene oil-based hybrid nanofluids comprising dissimilar nanoparticles like silver (Ag) and manganese zinc ferrite (MnZnFe2O4). A numerical algorithm, which is mainly based on finite difference discretization, is developed to find the numerical solution of the problem. A numerical comparison appraises the efficiency of this algorithm. The effects of physical parameters are examined via the graphical representations in either case of nanofluids (pure or hybrid). The results designate that the porosity of the medium causes a resistance in the fluid flow. The enlarging values of nanoparticle volume fraction of silver sufficiently increase the temperature as well as velocity. It is examined here that mixture of hybrid nanoparticles (Ag-MnZnFe2O4) together with kerosene oil can provide assistance in heating up the thermal systems.
Antagonistic Effect of Dichloromethane on Oreochromis mossambicus and Immune Stimulation Activity of Aloe Vera
Authors: Nirmala G. N. , Sharma Akshata , Ragunathan Venkataraghavan
Published: August 2022

This study examined the aquatic toxicity of dichloromethane (DCM) on Oreochromis mossambicus. Along with aquatic toxicity studies, in silico research was also conducted to identify ways of improving the fish’s immune system, which may help to fight the oxidative stress and neurotoxic effects of DCM. The activities of glutathione S-transferase and acetylcholinesterase enzymes were studied in samples from the brains, muscles, livers, and gills of fish treated with different concentrations of DCM (730, 760, and 790 ppm). Histopathological and hematological studies were also completed at various concentrations of DCM. Molecular docking studies of the bioactive compounds of Aloe vera against interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were conducted, and drug properties were also analyzed. The lethal concentration (LC50) of DCM in the fish was found to be 760 ppm. The hematological study revealed that tissues exposed to 760 ppm of DCM had an elevated leukocyte count, high amounts of hemoglobin, and very low platelet counts. The liver histopathological study identified cellular alterations such as necrosis, and the gills showed lamellar fusion and congestion. The compound sitosterol showed strong binding energy (-12.398 kcal/mol) against IL-1β, followed by squalene (−12.157 kcal/mol). Pharmacokinetic properties were also analyzed, with satisfactory results. Thus, the hematological and histopathological studies reveal that DCM has a potential ability to induce oxidative stress and neurotoxic effects. Hence, the phytochemicals of Aloe vera can improve the immune system to fight against the neurotoxicity of DCM, which can be further validated by in vitro and in vivo studies.
Environmental impact of oil palm processing on some properties of the on-site soil in a growing city in Nigeria
Authors: TO Ogunbode , O Aliku , PO Ogungbile , Olatubi IV , VA Adeniyi , EA Akintunde
Published: August 2022

Both natural and anthropogenic activities exert a great influence on soil conditions, with some being beneficial to soil health. This study was conducted to assess the impact of oil palm processing activities on selected soil properties in Iwo, Nigeria. Soil samples taken from upstream, mid-section, and downstream points along an oil palm mill dumpsite were compared against a control. Soil organic matter, bulk density, and soil moisture were determined using standard procedures, while soil structural stability was estimated using stability index. The soil organic matter was significantly higher at the oil palm mill relative to the control and reduced by 50.8 and 64.4% at the upstream and downstream relative to the mid-section, respectively. The bulk density did not differ significantly among the sampling points but increased at the upstream, mid-section, and downstream by 2.4–13.1% compared with the control. The soil moisture at field capacity was substantially higher at the site relative to the control, with the upstream having the highest value (0.94 m3m−3). The soil structural stability was superior at the mid-section and reduced by 57.0–76.2% at the upstream, downstream, and control points. In general, oil palm mill processing activities improved the on-site soil organic matter and its physical conditions.
New Form of Economic Development in Highly Urbanized Area and Its Effect on Green Development
Authors: Wang Baohui , Dong Xiaozhen , Qu Yanbo , Li Yan , Ren Qiuwei , Zheng Yanfeng , Xu Zhiwei
Published: August 2022

The balanced and stable development among economy, society and environment is an important research topic for any region. Given the gap between urban and rural areas, further improving the social security system is a key issue that China urgently needs to solve. This paper uses the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model to evaluate the implementation effect of the two-tier social security system in the Macao Special Administrative Region (MSAR), and discusses the effect of social security expenditure on green development. The results show that: in the long run, social security expenditure is negatively correlated with regional economic development, but the two-tier social security system has significantly promoted the development of the regional economy. This shows that Macao’s two-tier social security system can be a new form of economic development. The coupling coordinating relationship between economic growth and green development fluctuated from 2010 to 2020. Compared to economic growth, social security expenditure has a significant negative lag effect on green development. Therefore, the effect of social security on promoting environmental protection and green development needs to be optimized. Through the discussion of the relationship between Macao’s social security, economic growth and green development, this study provides relevant practical experience and inspiration for the economic and social green development of other region.
Deaths and disability-adjusted life years burden attributed to air pollution in China, 1990–2019: Results from the global burden of disease study 2019
Authors: Gan Hui , Cheng Long , Zhai Yingying , Wang Yimin , Hu Haisheng , Zhu Zheng , Sun Baoqing
Published: August 2022

Background: The impact of deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) caused by air pollution in China has not been well elucidated. We aimed to analyze the association of air pollution with deaths and DALYs in the Chinese population.

Methods: We extracted data on burden due to deaths and disability-adjusted life years attributed to air pollution in the previous 30 years in China from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study 2019 and performed a comprehensive analysis and summary.

Results: 1.85 (95% UI: 1.57–2.17) million Chinese people lost their lives as a result of air pollution in 2019, a slight decrease from 1990. In 2019, the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) caused by air pollution in China was 42.51 (95% UI: 36.34–49.48) million, a 30.2% decrease from 1990. From 1990 to 2019, both age-standardized death rate (ASDR) and age-standardized DALYs due to air pollution in China showed a significant year-on-year downward trend. Air pollution–related deaths and DALYs occurred mostly in people over the age of 50 years. Stroke, ischemic heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were attributed the maximum death burden due to air pollution in China in 2019.

Conclusion: Over the past 30 years, air pollution has brought a heavy disease burden to China, and in the future, joint efforts are required to improve the air quality.
A first attempt to evaluate the toxicity to Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin exposed to rare earth elements
Authors: Siciliano Antonietta , Sabatino Manuela , Paone Antonietta , Padilla Suarez Edith Guadalupe , Toscanesi Maria , Brouziotis Antonios Apostolos , Gambino Edvige , Saviano Lorenzo , Trifuoggi Marco , Guida Marco , Libralato Giovanni
Published: August 2022

The increasing use and demand of rare earth elements in many emerging technologies is leading to a potentially higher input to the marine environment. This study compared for the first time the effect of lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce), neodymium (Nd), samarium (Sm), europium (Eu), gadolinium (Gd), dysprosium (Dy), and erbium (Er) to the microalga Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin. The algal growth inhibition was investigated after 72 h of exposure. The median effect concentrations (EC50) ranged from 0.98 mg/L to 13.21 mg/L and elements were ranked as follows: Gd > Ce > Er > La > Eu > Nd > Dy > Sm. The comparison of predicted no effect concentrations (PNEC) for hazard and risk assessment with measured environmental concentrations showed that ecological risks deriving from REEs could be present, but limited to specific environments like estuarine waters. The results support evidence of actions to manage the REE impact in seawater environments, looking to improve the monitoring tailored to the different and dynamic nature of ecosystems.
Current bioinformatics tools for biodegradation of xenobiotic compounds
Authors: Arora Pankaj Kumar , Kumar Ashish , Srivastava Alok , Garg Sanjay Kumar , Singh Vijay Pal
Published: August 2022

The review summarizes different bioinformatics tools used in studying the degradation of various xenobiotic compounds. Databases and Pathway Prediction Systems are the key bioinformatics tools involved in biodegradation. Several bio-degradative databases including EAWAG-BBD (Biocatalysis/Biodegradation Database), Plastics Microbial Biodegradation Database, ONDB (Organonitrogen Degradation Database), Food risk component database (Food risk component database, Aromadeg (Aromatic hydrocarbon Degrading Database), OxDBase (A database of Biodegradative oxygenases), and RHObase database (ring-hydroxylating oxygenase database) have been developed for biodegradation and bioremediation studies. Users can use pathway prediction systems to predict degradation of xenobiotic whose degradation has never been reported in the literature. This review will help to design a strategy for biodegradation of chemicals therefore, also help in improved bioremediation process of chemicals.
Circular economy implementation and business performance: The mediating role of environmental performance in the Chinese energy production enterprises
Authors: Dong Hao , Wang Bo , Li Jiaze , Li Zongwu , Li Fujing , Wang Chuangjia
Published: August 2022

This study proposes a model to explain the effect of circular economy implementation on business performance in the Chinese energy production enterprises. Moreover, it analyzes the mediating role of environmental performance in explaining the influence mechanism. Our study used data from the Chinese energy production enterprises, which included 295 firms. We applied the methodological approach, partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), to test the hypothetical model. The results show that circular economy implementation have a positive on business performance, and environmental performance plays a part of the intermediary role in the circular economy implementation affecting business performance. Finally, some promising avenues for future research and implications for managers and policymakers are suggested based on these findings.
The impact of digital economy on green development in China
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Fu Wei Kang , Ma Li
Published: August 2022

With the huge dividends released by the vigorous development of the digital economy, China urgently demand a major strategic transformation from extensive development to green development. The 14th five-year plan period will require China’s green development to firmly create new advantages in the growth of the digital economy. In order to investigate the impact of the digital economy on the green economy, this paper has utilized a panel data model to analyze data from 30 Chinese provinces between 2015 and 2020. Findings from the research have suggested that the digital economy is helpful for advancing the green economy, with the Eastern region having a bigger influence than the central region and the center region having a greater influence than the Western region. Industrial structure and technological innovation are important channels for digital economy to promote green development. According to the aforementioned conclusion, we have proposed the following suggestion: China should actively advance the digital economy, encourage regional coordination in growth, continuously improve the industrial structure and boost technical innovation.