bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Middle cerebral artery infarction, A rare complication of intracranial cryptococcoma in an immunocompetent patient: A case report and literature review
Authors: Li Ying-Ching , Tseng Chun-Chia , Chien Shuo-Chi , Huang Sheng-Han , Chang Tin-Wei , Chen Chun-Ting , Tu Po-Hsun , Liu Zhuo-Hao , Huang Yin-Cheng
Published: February 2023

Background

This report presents the first case of intracranial cryptococcoma arising from the right frontal lobe causing right middle cerebral artery infarction. Intracranial cryptococcomas usually occur in the cerebral parenchyma, basal ganglia, cerebellum, pons, thalamus, and choroid plexus; they may mimic intracranial tumors, but seldom cause infarction. ﻿Of the 15 cases of pathology-confirmed intracranial cryptococcomas in the literature, no case has been complicated by middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction. Here, we discuss a case of intracranial cryptococcoma with an ipsilateral middle cerebral artery infarction.

Case Description

A 40-year-old man was referred to our emergency room due to progressive headaches and acute left hemiplegia. The patient was a construction worker with no history of avian contact, recent travel, or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Brain computed tomography (CT) showed an intra-axial mass, and subsequent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) delineated a large mass of 53 mm in the right middle frontal lobe and a small lesion of 18 mm in the right caudate head, with marginal enhancement and central necrosis. A neurosurgeon was consulted in view of the intracranial lesion, and the patient underwent en-bloc excision of the solid mass. The pathology report later identified a Cryptococcus infection rather than malignancy. The patient underwent 4 weeks of postoperative treatment with amphotericin B plus flucytosine; he then received subsequent oral antifungal treatment for 6 months, and had neurologic sequelae that manifested as left side hemiplegia.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of fungal infections in the CNS remains challenging. This is especially true of Cryptococcus CNS infections that present as a space-occupying lesion in an immunocompetent patient. A Cryptococcus infection should be considered in the differential diagnoses in patients with brain mass lesions, as this infection can be misdiagnosed as a brain tumor.
Single-center experience of Ex vivo liver resection and autotransplantation for complex hepatic alveolar echinoccosis
Authors: Yuan Jiaqi , Chen Xiaobin , Hou Lizhao , Wang Haijiu , Zhou Ying , Pang Mingquan , YangDan CaiRang , Wang Zhixin , Fan Haining
Published: February 2023

Objective

To summarize the single-centre experience of Ex vivo Liver Resection and Autotransplantation (ELRA) to treat end-stage hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (HAE).

Methods

Retrospective analysis of clinical data and follow-up data of 13 patients admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University from January 2015 to December 1, 2020, with the Ex vivo Liver Resection and Autotransplantation for hepatic alveolar echinococcosis.

Result

13 patients underwent successful total/ semi-ex-vivo liver resection combined with Ex vivo Liver Resection and Autotransplantation with no intra-operative deaths. the median standard liver volume was 1,118 ml (1,085–1,206.5 ml); the median residual liver volume was 634 ml (526.5–1,338 ml); The median weight of the autograft was 845.8 g (619.5–1,020.5 g), the median operation time was 14.5 h (11.5–16.15 h); the median anhepatic period time was 290 min (257–312.5 min). The median intraoperative blood loss was 1,900 ml (1,300–3,500 ml); the median number of erythrocyte suspensions entered was 7.5 u (6–9u). The median length of hospital stay was 32 days (24–40 days). Postoperative complications occurred in 9 patients during hospitalization,with 7 patients graded at grade III or higher by Clavien-Dindo; 4 patients died postoperatively. 1 patient had recurrent abdominal distension with massive thoracoabdominal fluid and coagulation dysfunction 8 months after surgery and was considered to have small liver syndrome. 1 patient developed HAE recurrence during the follow-up, which was considered intraoperative incisional implantation.

Conclusion

ELRA is one of the most valuable therapeutic measures for the treatment of end-stage complicated hepatic alveolar echinococcosis. Precise preoperative assessment of liver function, individualized intraoperative duct reconstruction, and precise management of the postoperative disease can achieve better treatment results.
End-of-life decisions: A focus group study with German health professionals from human and veterinary medicine
Authors: Selter Felicitas , Persson Kirsten , Kunzmann Peter , Neitzke Gerald
Published: February 2023

Introduction

At first glance, human and (companion animal) veterinary medicine share challenging processes in end-of-life (EOL) decision-making. At the same time, treatment options in both professions are substantially different. The potential of an interdisciplinary exchange between both fields has been neglected by empirical research so far.

Methods

In this qualitative study, professionals from both fields were brought together in interdisciplinary focus groups to investigate the ethical aspects of convergences and divergences in EOL situations in human and veterinary medicine. The authors present and discuss an innovative mix of materials and methods as stimuli for discussion and for generating hypotheses.

Results

The results point toward a general convergence of issues, challenges, and judgements in EOL situations in both fields, such as professional ethos, communication with the family and the role thereof as well as the ideals of death, clearly exceeding the expectations of study participants. At the same time, the study highlights a few prominent differences such as the access to patients' preferences or legal and practical constraints.

Discussion

The findings suggest that using social science methods in empirical interdisciplinary biomedical-veterinary ethics could help to shed more light on this new area. Animal as well as human patients can potentially benefit from this mutual, scientifically accompanied exchange and the resulting identification and corrections of misconceptions.
Maintaining momentum: Tempospatial orientations among members of the Hungarian Momentum Movement Party towards a new political morale
Authors: Kristina Trebeljahr Leonie
Published: February 2023

Providing insight in political reality and morale beyond increasingly illiberal governments in CEE, this paper offers an ethnographic perspective on democratic opposition during the process of de-democratisation. Analysing the motivation and purpose of being politically active based on a limited group of members of the Hungarian Momentum Movement Party, it highlights how relating to past, present and future as well as other Hungarian parties and the West they strive to realise a ‘21st century European normality’.
De/humanizacja w procesach dezintegracji i reintegracji: przykład „dzikich” wojen
Authors: Ścigaj Paweł
Published: February 2023

The processes of integration, disintegration and reintegration are central to thinking about politics in processual terms. Among many circumstances and determinants, a special place is occupied by issues related to the humanization or dehumanization of opponents. The article deals with the relationship between dehumanization-rehumanization and disintegration-reintegration in the context of savage wars and taking into account their consequences for the phenomena of politicization and depoliticization.
Rozliczalność polityczna w nieskonsolidowanej demokracji. Przykład Polski
Authors: Pawłowska Agnieszka
Published: February 2023

The author formulates the assumption that public authorities in Poland are less able to hold accountability in connection with the changes introduced to the political system under the rule of the United Right. The aim of this article is to justify this assumption by presenting the current conditions of accountability of public authorities. In defining accountability, the author uses the approaches of R. Mulgan and M. Bovens. Following these authors, she distinguishes three stages of accountability: information, discussion, and consequences. The article presents the legal grounds and restrictions on access to public information, discussion of government policy and imposing sanctions on public authorities and officials. The author formulates a conclusion on the accountability deficit of public authorities in Poland due to the limitation of discussions in the parliament and public media and the breaking of the chain of accountability at the stage of consequences, which results mainly from the political subordination of the prosecutor’s office.
Rozwój uczestnictwa polskiej młodzieży w lokalnym i regionalnym życiu publicznym i społecznym w kontekście rekomendacji Rady Europy
Authors: Dybowska Agnieszka
Published: February 2023

Human rights, the rule of law and democracy are the basic issues on which the axiological system of the Council of Europe is based. All activities of the Council of Europe are subordinated to this axiology and influence the proposed shape of public policies in the states that are members of the organization. The study concerns a specific policy, namely the strategy for youth, and is the result of research aimed at answering the question of what influence recommendations of the Council of Europe have on the development of young Poles’ participation in public and social life at the local and regional level. During the research, the method of institutional and legal analysis was of key importance, by means of which legal acts of the Council of Europe and Poland (both legally binding and “soft law”) were analyzed, in particular those relating to youth policy.
Grounded Theory—An Illustrative Application in the Portuguese Footwear Industry
Authors: Monteiro Mónica , Rosa Álvaro , Martins Adelaide , Jayantilal Shital
Published: February 2023

Grounded theory is an inductive research methodology aiming at the construction of new concepts or new theories able to explain emerging phenomena. The objective of this paper is to provide insights on the usage of grounded theory in management research. We showcase how grounded theory can bring light to development modes of Portuguese small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in the specific reality of the footwear industry, where a changing and unpredictable environment threatens constant loss of competitive advantage. An interpretive–epistemological research philosophy was adopted, and evidence was gathered through nine semi-structured interviews. Portugal is currently a reference in the international footwear market and the sustainability of the sector plays an important role in the Portuguese industrial structure. This study highlights how the method of grounded theory can add value to research by uncovering complex managerial realities and develop new questions and issues for theory building.
Automatic Defect Recognition and Localization for Aeroengine Turbine Blades Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Wang Donghuan , Xiao Hong , Huang Shengqin
Published: February 2023

Radiographic testing is generally used in the quality management of aeroengine turbine blades. Traditional radiographic testing is critically dependent on artificially detecting professional inspectors. Thus, it sometimes tends to be error-prone and time-consuming. In this study, we gave an automatic defect detection method by combining radiographic testing with computer vision. A defect detection algorithm named DBFF-YOLOv4 was introduced for X-ray images of aeroengine turbine blades by employing two backbones to extract hierarchical defect features. In addition, a new concatenation form containing all feature maps was developed which play an important role in the present defect detection framework. Finally, a defect detection and recognition system was established for testing and output of complete turbine blade X-ray images. Meanwhile, nine cropping cycles for one defect, flipping, brightness increasing and decreasing were applied for expansion of training samples and data augmentation. The results found that this defect detection system can obtain a recall rate of 91.87%, a precision rate of 96.7%, and a false detection rate of 7% within the score threshold of 0.5. It was proven that cropping nine times and data augmentation are extremely helpful in improving detection accuracy. This study provides a new way of automatic radiographic testing for turbine blades.
Effects of Pulsed Jet Intensities on the Performance of the S-Duct
Authors: Wang Chengze , Lu Huawei , Kong Xiaozhi , Wang Shiqi , Ren Dongzhi , Huang Tianshuo
Published: February 2023

The high curvature of modern S-ducts causes a strong secondary flow, which seriously affects the uniformity of the compressor inlet flow. In this study, the flow control method of a pulsed jet was applied in the S-duct at an incoming Mach number of 0.4. The jet holes were with an angle of 45° and were symmetrically distributed on the upper wall. Three jet intensities of 0.16%, 0.24%, and 0.31% were simulated using the unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations (URANS) and were validated by experiments. The mechanism of the pulsed jet, with respect to controlling the flow separation in the S-duct, was analyzed through secondary flow behaviors and boundary layer characteristics. The results indicated that the radial and axial pressure gradients were crucial to the formation of the large-scale vortices and reversed fluids in the S-duct. The pulsed jets were found to resist the adverse pressure gradient by exciting the turbulent kinetic energy of the boundary layer fluids. In addition, the dissipation process of vorticity was accelerated due to the promotion of the mixing effect by these devices. Moreover, in the current study, the area with high total pressure loss coefficients decreased gradually along with the intensity increase. Specifically, a maximum loss reduction of 5.9% was achieved when the pulse jet intensity was set to 0.31%, which means that the pulsed jet has great potential in controlling the flow separation in the S-duct.
Insights into Transcriptomic Differences in Ovaries between Lambs and Adult Sheep after Superovulation Treatment
Authors: Wang Qingwei , Guo Xiaofei , Yao Dawei , Wang Biao , Li Yupeng , Zhang Jinlong , Zhang Xiaosheng
Published: February 2023

Superovulation technology shows a great potential for shortening breeding time. Using the juvenile superovulation technology, juvenile animals can generate more follicles than adult animals. By sequencing using high-throughput methods, we studied and described differentially expressed (DE) long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs) and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in the ovaries of young and adult sheep. Herein, 242 DE lncRNAs and 3150 DE mRNAs were screened. Through GO and KEGG analyses, we obtained genes related to ovarian/follicle development and ovulation in DE mRNAs, including OaFSHR, OaLHCGR, OaLDLR, OaZP3, OaSCARB1, and OaPDGFRA; through lncRNA-mRNA correlation analysis, we found that genes associated with ovarian/follicle development or ovulation include: XR_003585520.1, MSTRG.15652.1, XR_003588840.1, and their paired genes PDGFC, LRP5, and LRP1. We observed a synergistic effect between PDGFR and LRP1. PDGFR may play a leading role compared with LRP1. The induced LHCGR in lambs is higher than in adult sheep, showing more sensitivity to LH. The release of the oocytes was stimulated. Among the three lncRNAs, we found that XR_003588840.1 was significantly different and might perform a regulatory role in ovarian/follicle growth or ovulation.
Relevant Indicators of Consciousness after Waterbath Stunning in Turkeys and Stunning Efficiency in Commercial Conditions
Authors: Contreras-Jodar Alexandra , Varvaró-Porter Aranzazu , Velarde Antonio , Michel Virginie
Published: February 2023

The prevalence and inter-observer repeatability of the four most valid and feasible indicators of consciousness after waterbath stunning in turkeys were evaluated before bleeding (i.e., tonic convulsion, breathing, spontaneous blinking and vocalization) and during bleeding (i.e., fluttering, breathing, spontaneous swallowing and head shaking). Furthermore, correlations between them were calculated to further understand the association between such indicators. This study compared the assessments of four observers on 7877 turkeys from 28 flocks slaughtered in eight different abattoirs. Repeatability between observers was assessed by combining the crude percentage of agreement and the Fleiss’ kappa. Before bleeding, tonic seizure was observed to be not reliable under commercial conditions and spontaneous blinking and vocalization had poor repeatability. During bleeding, spontaneous swallowing was not observed and head shaking had poor repeatability. Hence, the most relevant indicators of consciousness before bleeding is breathing while during bleeding is breathing and wing flapping. Moreover, the stunning efficiency of the key electrical parameters used in the different slaughterhouses was assessed. Therefore, a refined list of indicators of the state of consciousness after waterbath stunning is proposed to be used in commercial turkey slaughterhouses to ensure consistency of controls. On the other hand, the range of the prevalence of turkeys with indicators of consciousness within a batch found before bleeding [0–16%] and after bleeding [0–18%] highlights the importance of controls.
Evaluation of Environmental Sampling for Detection of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis in the Pre-Weaned Calf Area and Calving Area of Infected Dairy Farms Enrolled in a Voluntary Johne’s Disease Control Programme
Authors: Field Niamh L. , Mee John F. , McAloon Conor G.
Published: February 2023

One of the pillars of Johne’s disease control is to break the cycle of transmission from infectious adult animals to young susceptible animals. Many control programmes utilise a risk assessment and management plan (RAMP) to identify specific risks for transmission of infection on individual farms and then recommend tailored biosecurity measures to mitigate the risk. It is important that infected farms in particular, practice effective biocontainment in the calving area and pre-weaned calf area. The objectives of this study were: (1) to determine what proportion of MAP-infected farms (PCR-positive) enrolled in a control programme had detectable MAP in their calf environment; (2) to compare RAMP scores and apparent within-herd prevalence (aWHP) of PCR-positive and PCR-negative farms; (3) to evaluate the correlation between RAMP scores, aWHP and levels of contamination based on PCR test Ct value. A novel environmental sampling protocol combining manure samples and boot swab samples was conducted in the calving area and pre-weaned calf area on 28 dairy farms with PCR-confirmed MAP infection. All samples were tested with PCR. Logistic regression modelling was used to evaluate the association between RAMP score and aWHP and PCR outcome. Overall, 46% of farms had positive PCR samples in either the calving area, pre-weaned calf area or both. The calving area was positive in 36% of farms and the pre-weaned calf area was positive in 21% of farms. There was a moderate, negative correlation (r = −0.45; p = 0.08) observed between RAMP scores and Ct value at the sample-level that slightly missed the required significance level. No significant association was identified between RAMP scores or aWHP and PCR test outcome (positive or negative). It was concluded that environmental sampling of the calving area and pre-weaned calf area has potential applications in the assessment of transmission risk on infected farms and could be used to monitor the efficacy of biosecurity measures over time. Further research conducted on a larger scale is required to support these results.
Dental Disease in Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Its Risk Factors—A Private Practice Study in the Metropolitan Region of Chile
Authors: Palma-Medel Tamara , Marcone Daniela , Alegría-Morán Raúl
Published: February 2023

Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) have elodont dentition, a characteristic that predisposes them to the development of Acquired Dental Disease (ADD), which is a multifactorial disease. The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors for ADD in domestic pet rabbits. To do this, a retrospective analysis of 1420 rabbits treated at a private practice during 2018–2021 was performed. For this, several variables were retrieved from clinical records, in addition to signology at the time of diagnosis. ADD was found on 25.4% of rabbits, mostly on their cheek teeth. In addition, age (OR = 1.029; 95% CI = 1.023–1.035; p < 0.001) and sex (male) (OR = 1.591; 95% CI = 1.226–2.064; p < 0.001) were found to be significant risk factors for ADD. In contrast, a free lifestyle (OR = 0.565; 95% CI = 0.362–0.882; p = 0.012) and consuming hay in the diet (OR = 0.323; 95% CI = 0.220–0.473; p < 0.001) were protective factors. In conclusion, ADD has a high prevalence and is usually underdiagnosed, highlighting the need for an exhaustive evaluation of patients during the clinical examination. This study improves our knowledge of ADD and its prevention.
Itaconate Suppresses the Activation of Mitochondrial NLRP3 Inflammasome and Oxidative Stress in Allergic Airway Inflammation
Authors: Xie Qiu-Meng , Chen Ning , Song Si-Ming , Zhao Cui-Cui , Ruan Ya , Sha Jia-Feng , Liu Qian , Jiang Xu-Qin , Fei Guang-He , Wu Hui-Mei
Published: February 2023

Itaconate has emerged as a novel anti-inflammatory and antioxidative endogenous metabolite, yet its role in allergic airway inflammation (AAI) and the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, the itaconate level in the lung was assessed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), and the effects of the Irg1/itaconate pathway on AAI and alveolar macrophage (AM) immune responses were evaluated using an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AAI model established by wild type (WT) and Irg1−/− mice, while the mechanism of this process was investigated by metabolomics analysis, mitochondrial/cytosolic protein fractionation and transmission electron microscopy in the lung tissues. The results demonstrated that the Irg1 mRNA/protein expression and itaconate production in the lung were significantly induced by OVA. Itaconate ameliorated while Irg1 deficiency augmented AAI, and this may be attributed to the fact that itaconate suppressed mitochondrial events such as NLRP3 inflammasome activation, oxidative stress and metabolic dysfunction. Furthermore, we identified that the Irg1/itaconate pathway impacted the NLRP3 inflammasome activation and oxidative stress in AMs. Collectively, our findings provide evidence for the first time, supporting the conclusion that in the allergic lung, the itaconate level is markedly increased, which directly regulates AMs’ immune responses. We therefore propose that the Irg1/itaconate pathway in AMs is a potential anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative therapeutic target for AAI.
Hepatic-Modulatory Effects of Chicken Liver Hydrolysate-Based Supplement on Autophagy Regulation against Liver Fibrogenesis
Authors: Lin Yi-Ling , Chen Chih-Ying , Yang Deng-Jye , Wu Yi-Hsieng Samuel , Lee Yue-Jia , Chen Yi-Chou , Chen Yi-Chen
Published: February 2023

Chicken-liver hydrolysates (CLHs) have been characterized as performing several biofunctions by our team. This study aimed to investigate if a CLH-based supplement (GBHP01TM) can ameliorate liver fibrogenesis induced by thioacetamide (TAA) treatment. Our results showed that the TAA treatment caused lower body weight gains and enlarged livers, as well as higher serum ALT, AST, and ALP levels (p < 0.05). This liver inflammatory and fibrotic evidence was ameliorated (p < 0.05) by supplementing with GBHP01TM; this partially resulted from its antioxidant abilities, including decreased TBARS values but increased TEAC levels, reduced GSH contents and catalase/GPx activities in the livers of TAA-treated rats (p < 0.05). Additionally, fewer nodules were observed in the appearance of the livers of TAA-treated rats after supplementing with GBHP01TM. Similarly, supplementing GBHP01TM decreased fibrotic scars and the fibrotic score in the livers of TAA-treated rats (p < 0.05). Moreover, the increased hepatic IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels after TAA treatment were also alleviated by supplementing with GBHP01TM (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, GBHP01TM could decrease the ratio of LC3B II/LC3B I, but upregulated P62 and Rab7 in the livers of TAA-treated rats (p < 0.05). Taking these results together, the CLH-based supplement (GBHP01TM) can be characterized as a natural agent against liver fibrogenesis.
Reinforcement Learning in Game Industry—Review, Prospects and Challenges
Authors: Souchleris Konstantinos , Sidiropoulos George K. , Papakostas George A.
Published: February 2023

This article focuses on the recent advances in the field of reinforcement learning (RL) as well as the present state–of–the–art applications in games. First, we give a general panorama of RL while at the same time we underline the way that it has progressed to the current degree of application. Moreover, we conduct a keyword analysis of the literature on deep learning (DL) and reinforcement learning in order to analyze to what extent the scientific study is based on games such as ATARI, Chess, and Go. Finally, we explored a range of public data to create a unified framework and trends for the present and future of this sector (RL in games). Our work led us to conclude that deep RL accounted for roughly 25.1% of the DL literature, and a sizable amount of this literature focuses on RL applications in the game domain, indicating the road for newer and more sophisticated algorithms capable of outperforming human performance.
Effect of Different Culture Methods on Growth and Survival of the Snout Otter Clam, Lutraria philippinarum, in Bai Tu Long Bay, Vietnam
Authors: Giang Cao Truong , Ugalde Sarah , In Vu Van , Thuy Tran Thi , Muu Tran The , Huyen Vu Thi , Lua Dang Thi , Minh Tran Thi Nguyet , Khuyen Trinh Dinh , Khoi Le Van , Sang Vu Van
Published: February 2023

This is the first study to examine the effect of three different cultivation methods (bottom-tray culture, suspended-tray culture, and beach/bottom culture) on the growth and survival rates of the snout otter clam, Lutraria philippinarum, after 12 months of grow-out cultivation from seed to commercial size. Analyses included weight, survival, shell size, and total fat. Although the results showed limited differences in growth among cultivation methods, survival rates were significantly different among three different culture methods. The bottom-tray cultivation method had the highest survival rate (76.5%), compared with suspended-tray cultivation (31.6%) and beach/bottom cultivation (52.5%). This demonstrates that the most suitable method for commercial snout otter clam farming is cultivation trays placed on the bottom of the substrate. Improving commercial farming of the species will support the development and expansion of aquaculture in Vietnam and elsewhere, while reducing the harvest pressure on wild populations.
Physical Explanation for Paradoxical Climate Change in Semi-Arid Inland Eurasia Based on a Remodeled Precipitation Recycling Ratio and Clausius–Clapeyron Equation
Authors: Wang Xi-Yu , Bao Xin-Yue , Huang Yu , Li Zhong-Wai , Yong Jia-Hua , Wu Yong-Ping , Feng Guo-Lin , Sun Gui-Quan
Published: February 2023

Under global warming, the climate in semi-arid inland Eurasia (SAIE) has changed in an opposite manner, thereby seriously impacting the local ecological environment. However, the key influencing factors and physical mechanism remain inconclusive. In this paper, we remodel the precipitation recycling ratio (PRR) model to assess the contributions of moisture from different water vapor sources to local precipitation, analyze the characteristics of the PRR and precipitation in SAIE, and provide possible physical reasons based on the Clausius–Clapeyron equation. It is found that the PRR increased from 1970 to 2017 as the result of linear trend analysis, with obvious seasonality. Moreover, the component of precipitation contributed by locally evaporated moisture (Pl), and that contributed by advected moisture (Pa) as well as the total precipitation (P), increased during the past 48 years. In particular, the Pa, Pl, and P in autumn and winter all increased obviously during the past 20 years from the interdecadal change trend, as well as the PRR (Pl/P), which was opposite to the decrease in the total water vapor input I(Ω) in the horizontal direction. According to the Clausius–Clapeyron equation, one of the causes might be that global warming has accelerated the local water cycle and driven the increase in Pa, and the increase in atmospheric water holding capacity caused by global warming provides the power source. We suggest that the climate’s transformation from dry to wet in SAIE can only be temporary since SAIE is an inland area and the adjustment of atmospheric circulation did not lead to the increase in external water vapor.
The Lagging Effect of Precipitation on NAIs Concentrations on Rainy Days in Wuyi Mountain National Park, China
Authors: Xie Ziyang , Li Changshun , Lin Yan , Liu Jinfu , He Zhongsheng
Published: February 2023

Precipitation (PRE) is an essential factor that affects the negative air ions (NAIs) concentrations. However, the mechanism of NAIs concentrations and their influencing factors on rainy and non-rainy days remains unclear. Here, we used hourly data of NAIs concentrations and meteorological data in 2019 to analyze the distribution of NAIs concentrations and its influencing factors on rainy and non-rainy days in the Wuyi Mountain National Park (WMNP) of China, which was listed as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site in 1999. The results indicated that the NAIs concentrations on rainy days were significantly higher than on non-rainy days. However, the NAIs concentrations on rainy days were slightly higher than on the first and second days after rainy days. Then, the NAIs concentrations were significantly reduced on the third day and after that. Thus, rainy days lead to a 2-day lag in the smooth reduction of NAIs on non-rainy days after rainy days. NAIs concentrations were significantly correlated with the relative humidity (RHU) on both rainy and non-rainy days. By analyzing the meteorological factors on NAIs for ranking the feature importance scores on rainy and non-rainy days, PRE was ranked first on rainy days, and sea level pressure (PRS_Sea) and temperature (TEM) were ranked first and second on non-rainy days, respectively. Based on the univariate linear regression model (ULRM), NAIs concentrations responded strongly (higher absolute slope values) to RHU on rainy days and to pressure (PRS), visibility (VIS), water vapor pressure (VAP), TEM, and ground surface temperature (GST) on non-rainy days. The results highlight the importance of PRE in the lag time of NAIs concentrations on rainy and non-rainy days.
Impact Analysis of Super Typhoon 2114 ‘Chanthu’ on the Air Quality of Coastal Cities in Southeast China Based on Multi-Source Measurements
Authors: Li Fei , Zheng Qiuping , Jiang Yongcheng , Xun Aiping , Zhang Jieru , Zheng Hui , Wang Hong
Published: February 2023

The northward typhoon configuration along the southeast coast of China (TCN-SEC) is one of the key circulation patterns influencing the coastal cities in southeast China (CCSE). Here, we analyzed the air quality in CCSE during the high-incidence typhoon period from 2019 to 2021. Multi-source measurements were carried out to explore the impact of super typhoon 2114 ‘Chanthu’ on the air quality in CCSE. The results showed that the TCN-SEC and its surrounding weather situation had a favorable impact on the increase in pollutant concentration in CCSE, especially on the increase in O3 concentration. From 13 September to 17 September 2021, affected by the cyclonic shear in the south of super typhoon 2114 ‘Chanthu,’ the strong wind near the ground, stable relative humidity, strong precipitation, and the significantly reduced wind speed had a substantial effect on PM10, PM2.5, SO2, and NO2 concentrations. Calm and light air near the ground, weak precipitation, high daily maximum temperatures, and minimum relative humidity may provide favorable meteorological conditions for the accumulation of O3 precursors and photochemical reactions during the day, resulting in the daily peak values of O3 exceeding 160 μg/m3. The evolution of wind, relative humidity, and boundary layer height could play an important role in the variations in PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations by influencing pollutant accumulation or diffusion. It was suggested that the atmospheric structure of horizontal stability and vertical mixing below 1500 m could play a significant role in the accumulation and vertical distribution of ozone. The results highlight the important role of typhoons in the regional environment and provide a scientific basis for further application of multi-source observation data, as well as air pollution control.
Lake Water Quality and Dynamics Assessment during 1990–2020 (A Case Study: Chao Lake, China)
Authors: Li Chuan , Rousta Iman , Olafsson Haraldur , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2023

Settlements along the coastlines of oceans and lakes, which are among the world’s most densely populated areas, are in immediate danger due to stressors brought on by climate change and dangers posed by human activities. This study investigates the water changes of Chao Lake during the last 30 years by using Landsat 5, 7 and 8 time-series images and water indices, including Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), Normalized Difference Turbidity Index (NDTI), Green Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (GNDVI) and Normalized Sea Surface Temperature (SST). The gathered data demonstrates that each estimated indicator’s value has increased with time. Thus, over the course of the 30-year research period, the NDWI, NDTI, GNDVI and SST annual average values show increases of 112.10%, 242.42%, 112.82% and 119.42%, respectively. The NDWI index underwent these fluctuations, evidenced with the biggest amount (681.8%) in the winter and the lowest amount (28.13%) in the fall. The most NDTI changes (480%) and the least (only 50%) occurred in summer and fall, respectively. The largest increases in GNDVI (180%) and SST values (537.86%) were observed in winter; the smallest changes in GNDVI (43.48%) and GNDVI (68.76%) in fall. The outcomes also demonstrated a strong link between all four estimated factors. In the majority of the analyzed months, the correlation between the 2 measures, GNDVI and NDTI, was considerably greater and near to 1. The findings of this study may be utilized by managers, decision-makers and local planners for the purpose of environmental planning and reducing water pollution in Chao Lake (and other water regions), as well as reducing the risk of environmental hazards due to water pollution.
Renewable Electricity for Decarbonisation of Road Transport: Batteries or E-Fuels?
Authors: Pasini Gianluca , Lutzemberger Giovanni , Ferrari Lorenzo
Published: February 2023

Road transport is one of the most energy-consuming and greenhouse gas (GHG) emitting sectors. Progressive decarbonisation of electricity generation could support the ambitious target of road vehicle climate neutrality in two different ways: direct electrification with onboard electrochemical storage or a change of energy vector with e-fuels. The most promising, state-of-the-art electrochemical storages for road transport have been analysed considering current and future technologies (the most promising ones) whose use is assumed to occur within the next 10–15 years. Different e-fuels (e-hydrogen, e-methanol, e-diesel, e-ammonia, E-DME, and e-methane) and their production pathways have been reviewed and compared in terms of energy density, synthesis efficiency, and technology readiness level. A final energetic comparison between electrochemical storages and e-fuels has been carried out considering different powertrain architectures, highlighting the huge difference in efficiency for these competing solutions. E-fuels require 3–5 times more input energy and cause 3–5 times higher equivalent vehicle CO2 emissions if the electricity is not entirely decarbonised.
Synthetic CT in Carbon Ion Radiotherapy of the Abdominal Site
Authors: Parrella Giovanni , Vai Alessandro , Nakas Anestis , Garau Noemi , Meschini Giorgia , Camagni Francesca , Molinelli Silvia , Barcellini Amelia , Pella Andrea , Ciocca Mario , Vitolo Viviana , Orlandi Ester , Paganelli Chiara , Baroni Guido
Published: February 2023

The generation of synthetic CT for carbon ion radiotherapy (CIRT) applications is challenging, since high accuracy is required in treatment planning and delivery, especially in an anatomical site as complex as the abdomen. Thirty-nine abdominal MRI-CT volume pairs were collected and a three-channel cGAN (accounting for air, bones, soft tissues) was used to generate sCTs. The network was tested on five held-out MRI volumes for two scenarios: (i) a CT-based segmentation of the MRI channels, to assess the quality of sCTs and (ii) an MRI manual segmentation, to simulate an MRI-only treatment scenario. The sCTs were evaluated by means of similarity metrics (e.g., mean absolute error, MAE) and geometrical criteria (e.g., dice coefficient). Recalculated CIRT plans were evaluated through dose volume histogram, gamma analysis and range shift analysis. The CT-based test set presented optimal MAE on bones (86.03 ± 10.76 HU), soft tissues (55.39 ± 3.41 HU) and air (54.42 ± 11.48 HU). Higher values were obtained from the MRI-only test set (MAEBONE = 154.87 ± 22.90 HU). The global gamma pass rate reached 94.88 ± 4.9% with 3%/3 mm, while the range shift reached a median (IQR) of 0.98 (3.64) mm. The three-channel cGAN can generate acceptable abdominal sCTs and allow for CIRT dose recalculations comparable to the clinical plans.
P2X7 Receptor Modulation of the Gut Microbiota and the Inflammasome Determines the Severity of Toxoplasma gondii-Induced Ileitis
Authors: Moreira-Souza Aline Cristina Abreu , Nanini Hayandra Ferreira , Rangel Thuany Prado , da Silva Sthefani Rodrigues Batista , Damasceno Beatriz Pêgo , Ribeiro Beatriz Elias , Cascabulho Cynthia M. , Thompson Fabiano , Leal Camille , Santana Patrícia Teixeira , Rosas Siane Lopes Bittencourt , de Andrade Kívia Queiroz , Silva Claudia L. Martins , Vommaro Rossiane Claudia , de Souza Heitor Siffert Pereira , Coutinho-Silva Robson
Published: February 2023

In mice, oral Toxoplasma gondii infection induces severe ileitis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of the P2X7 receptor (P2X7) on the inflammatory response to T. gondii-induced ileitis. Cysts of the ME49 strain of T. gondii were used to induce ileitis. The infected mice were euthanized on day 8 and ileal tissue and peripheral blood were collected for histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses. Ileal contractility, inflammatory mediators, inflammasome activation, quantitative PCR analysis of gene expression, and fecal microbiota were assessed using appropriate techniques, respectively. The infected P2X7−/− mice had greater disease severity, parasitic burden, liver damage, and intestinal contractility than the infected wild-type (WT) mice. Infection increased serum IL-6 and IFN-γ and tissue caspase-1 but not NLRP3 in P2X7−/− mice compared to WT mice. Bacteroidaceae, Rikenellaceae, and Rhodospirillales increased while Muribaculaceae and Lactobacillaceae decreased in the infected WT and P2X7−/− mice. Bacteroidia and Tannerellaceae increased in the P2X7−/− mice with ileitis. By contrast, Clostridiales and Mollicutes were absent in the P2X7−/− mice but increased in the WT mice. P2X7 protects mice against T. gondii infection by activating the inflammasome and regulating the local and systemic immune responses. Specific gut bacterial populations modulated by P2X7 determine disease severity.
Structural Basis of the Interaction of the G Proteins, Gαi1, Gβ1γ2 and Gαi1β1γ2, with Membrane Microdomains and Their Relationship to Cell Localization and Activity
Authors: Álvarez Rafael , Escribá Pablo V.
Published: February 2023

GPCRs receive signals from diverse messengers and activate G proteins that regulate downstream signaling effectors. Efficient signaling is achieved through the organization of these proteins in membranes. Thus, protein–lipid interactions play a critical role in bringing G proteins together in specific membrane microdomains with signaling partners. Significantly, the molecular basis underlying the membrane distribution of each G protein isoform, fundamental to fully understanding subsequent cell signaling, remains largely unclear. We used model membranes with lipid composition resembling different membrane microdomains, and monomeric, dimeric and trimeric Gi proteins with or without single and multiple mutations to investigate the structural bases of G protein–membrane interactions. We demonstrated that cationic amino acids in the N-terminal region of the Gαi1 and C-terminal region of the Gγ2 subunit, as well as their myristoyl, palmitoyl and geranylgeranyl moieties, define the differential G protein form interactions with membranes containing different lipid classes (PC, PS, PE, SM, Cho) and the various microdomains they may form (Lo, Ld, PC bilayer, charged, etc.). These new findings in part explain the molecular basis underlying amphitropic protein translocation to membranes and localization to different membrane microdomains and the role of these interactions in cell signal propagation, pathophysiology and therapies targeted to lipid membranes.
Complement 1q/Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Proteins (CTRPs): Structure, Receptors and Signaling
Authors: Schanbacher Constanze , Hermanns Heike M. , Lorenz Kristina , Wajant Harald , Lang Isabell
Published: February 2023

Adiponectin and the other 15 members of the complement 1q (C1q)/tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related protein (CTRP) family are secreted proteins composed of an N-terminal variable domain followed by a stalk region and a characteristic C-terminal trimerizing globular C1q (gC1q) domain originally identified in the subunits of the complement protein C1q. We performed a basic PubMed literature search for articles mentioning the various CTRPs or their receptors in the abstract or title. In this narrative review, we briefly summarize the biology of CTRPs and focus then on the structure, receptors and major signaling pathways of CTRPs. Analyses of CTRP knockout mice and CTRP transgenic mice gave overwhelming evidence for the relevance of the anti-inflammatory and insulin-sensitizing effects of CTRPs in autoimmune diseases, obesity, atherosclerosis and cardiac dysfunction. CTRPs form homo- and heterotypic trimers and oligomers which can have different activities. The receptors of some CTRPs are unknown and some receptors are redundantly targeted by several CTRPs. The way in which CTRPs activate their receptors to trigger downstream signaling pathways is largely unknown. CTRPs and their receptors are considered as promising therapeutic targets but their translational usage is still hampered by the limited knowledge of CTRP redundancy and CTRP signal transduction.
Quantitative Autofluorescence in Non-Neovascular Age Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Chandra Shruti , Grewal Manjot K. , Gurudas Sarega , Sondh Rajan , Bird Alan , Jeffery Glen , Chong Victor , Sivaprasad Sobha
Published: February 2023

Quantitative autofluorescence (qAF8) level is a presumed surrogate marker of lipofuscin content in the retina. We investigated the changes in the qAF8 levels in non-neovascular AMD. In this prospective cohort study, Caucasians aged ≥50 years with varying severity of non-neovascular AMD in at least one eye and Snellen visual acuity ≥6/18 were recruited. The qAF8 levels were analysed in the middle eight segments of the Delori pattern (HEYEX software, Heidelberg, Germany). The AMD categories were graded using both the Beckman classification and multimodal imaging (MMI) to include the presence of subretinal drusenoid deposits (SDD). A total of 353 eyes from 231 participants were analyzed. Compared with the age-matched controls, the qAF8 values decreased in the eyes with AMD (adjusted % difference = −19.7% [95% CI −28.8%, −10.4%]; p < 0.001) and across the AMD categories, (adjusted % differences; Early, −13.1% (−24.4%, −1%), p = 0.04; intermediate AMD (iAMD), −22.9% (−32.3%, −13.1%), p < 0.001; geographic atrophy −25.2% (−38.1%, −10.4%), p = 0.002). On MMI, the qAF8 was reduced in the AMD subgroups relative to the controls, (adjusted % differences; Early, −5.8% (−18.9%, 8.3%); p = 0.40; iAMD, −26.7% (−36.2%, −15.6%); p < 0.001; SDD, −23.7% (−33.6%, −12.2%); p < 0.001; atrophy, −26.7% (−39.3%, −11.3%), p = 0.001). The qAF8 levels declined early in AMD and were not significantly different between the severity levels of non-neovascular AMD, suggesting the early and sustained loss of function of the retinal pigment epithelium in AMD.
Screening MT1-MMP Activity and Inhibition in Three-Dimensional Tumor Spheroids
Authors: Knapinska Anna M. , Drotleff Gary , Chai Cedric , Twohill Destiny , Ernce Alexa , Tokmina-Roszyk Dorota , Grande Isabella , Rodriguez Michelle , Larson Brad , Fields Gregg B.
Published: February 2023

Membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) has been shown to be crucial for tumor angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis, and thus MT1-MMP is a high priority target for potential cancer therapies. To properly evaluate MT1-MMP inhibitors, a screening protocol is desired by which enzyme activity can be quantified in a tumor microenvironment-like model system. In the present study, we applied a fluorogenic, collagen model triple-helical substrate to quantify MT1-MMP activity for tumor spheroids embedded in a collagen hydrogel. The substrate was designed to be MT1-MMP selective and to possess fluorescent properties compatible with cell-based assays. The proteolysis of the substrate correlated to glioma spheroid invasion. In turn, the application of either small molecule or protein-based MMP inhibitors reduced proteolytic activity and glioma spheroid invasion. The presence of MT1-MMP in glioma spheroids was confirmed by western blotting. Thus, spheroid invasion was dependent on MT1-MMP activity, and inhibitors of MT1-MMP and invasion could be conveniently screened in a high-throughput format. The combination of the fluorogenic, triple-helical substrate, the three-dimensional tumor spheroids embedded in collagen, and Hit-Pick software resulted in an easily adaptable in vivo-like tumor microenvironment for rapidly processing inhibitor potential for anti-cancer use.