bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A folyamatos glükózmonitorozás jelentősége a korszerű diabetesgondozásban
Authors: Kocsis Győző
Published: May 2022

Talán nem túlzás kijelenteni, hogy a diabetes gondozásában paradigmaváltás történik, amelynek irányítói 2015-öt követően nem az új inzulinok, kezelési rendszerek, hanem egyértelműen az egyre szélesebb körben elterjedő szenzoros technológiák. Az 1-es típusú cukorbetegség kezelésében 2015 óta egyre több országban használják támogatott formában és széles körben a szenzoros technológiákat. A folyamatos glükózmonitorozás (szöveti glükózszenzor, egyszerűsítve szenzor) használata, amely magában foglalja mind a valós idejű CGM (real-time, RT-CGM), mind az időszakosan szkennelt CGM (intermittently scanned, isCGM) alkalmazását, az elmúlt néhány évben gyorsan elterjedt az érzékelők javuló pontossága, a nagyobb kényelem és a könnyebb használat, valamint a bővülő költségtérítés eredményeként. Számos tanulmány bizonyította a CGM használatának klinikai előnyeit cukorbetegeknél, függetlenül az inzulinkezelés módjától. Az összefoglalóban a glükózmonitorozással kapcsolatos gyakorlati szempontokat, a monitorozás optimális gyakoriságát, a folyamatos glükózmonitorozó rendszerek hatékonyságát, megbízhatóságát és szerepét elemezzük.
Normalization of Sudanese and Israeli Relations: From Hostility to Pragmatic Conciliation
Authors: BOZKURT Abdulgani , KAMAL ELDEEN Mayada
Published: May 2022

This article investigates the elements of continuity and rupture in the relations between Sudan and Israel from the time of Sudan’s independence until the end of Omar al-Bashir's rule in order to better understand the recent normalization of ties between these two countries. Through process tracing, the study examines, first, the period before independence when Sudan established contacts with Israel, followed by the Abboud regime that severed ties, and later the rule of Nimeiry when relations continued implicitly. The article explains the reasons for the tensions in the relationship between Sudan and Israel after Islamists came to power in 1989 as well as the defining features of the post-Bashir period. Although the so-called Sudan’s normalization of relations with Israel that started after Bashir was ousted from power in April 2019 is viewed as a dramatic change in Sudan’s foreign policy by many analysts, this study argues that to the contrary, the recent developments actually point to the continuities.
Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) Adaptation to US Midwest Agroecosystems
Authors: Oliveira Maxwel C. , Jhala Amit J. , Bernards Mark L. , Proctor Christopher A. , Stepanovic Strahinja , Werle Rodrigo
Published: May 2022

Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeriS. Watson) is one of the most troublesome agronomic weed species in the United States. Palmer amaranth is prevalent in the Southern Great Plains and the Southeastern United States, and its range is expanding northward through natural dispersal and human intervention. Palmer amaranth dispersal warrants studies assessing species adaptation into new geographies. A study was conducted in 2018 and 2019 to investigate the morphology, flowering, and gender from cohorts of Palmer amaranth growing under corn, soybean, and bareground across five locations in the Midwest United States. Results demonstrated that the first cohort of Palmer amaranth, established in June, produced 42% more biomass than plants from the second cohort (established in July). The first Palmer amaranth cohort produced 75.5 g plant-1in bareground, 28.3 g plant-1in soybean, and 16.3 g plant-1in corn, whereas the second Palmer amaranth cohort produced 62.6, 6.3, and 1.4 g plant-1in bareground, soybean, and corn, respectively. Palmer amaranth height was most impacted when growing in corn and averaged 85.2 cm tall in the first cohort, and 38.2 cm tall in the second cohort in corn. Moreover, Palmer amaranth flowering window shifted according to crop and cohort timings. Palmer amaranth growing in intense competition, such as under low light in corn, resulted in the longest flowering window. Palmer amaranth gender was slightly influenced by day of year, weight, and height. We documented a high degree of plasticity in Palmer amaranth, which will presumably favor its adaptation and expansion in cropping systems north of its current range. Therefore, preventing Palmer amaranth dispersal into new habitats is the most effective management strategy.
Effects of Elbow Crutch Locomotion on Gluteus Medius Activation During Stair Ascending
Authors: De la Fuente Carlos , Neira Alejandro , Torres Gustavo , Silvestre Rony , Roby Matias , Yañez Roberto , Herrera Sofia , Martabit Virgina , McKay Isabel , Carpes Felipe P.
Published: May 2022

Crutches can help with the locomotion of people with walking disorders or functional limitations. However, little is known about hip muscle activation during stair ascending using different crutch locomotion patterns in people without disorders and limitations. Thus, we determined the acute effects of elbow crutch locomotion on gluteus medius (GM) activity during stair ascending. This comparative analytic cross-sectional study enrolled ten healthy men (22.0 ± 0.47 years). Participants climbed up the stairs with elbow crutches using one or two crutches, with ipsilateral or contralateral use, and after loading or unloading a limb. EMG signals were recorded from anterior, middle, and posterior portions of the GM and compared between the crutch conditions. The Kruskal–Wallis test and Dunn’s multiple comparison test were performed (α= 5%). The activation of the GM increased with the ipsilateral use of crutches, with two crutches and three points, and when all the load depended only on one limb. GM activation decreased with contralateral use and in the unload limb. In conclusion, ascending stairs with elbow crutches alters the GM activation. The more critical factors were choosing the crutches’ lateral use, the number of crutches, and if the limb is loaded or unloaded while ascending the stairs. Our findings can be helpful to increase or decrease the GM activation for those who use or will use crutches.
The Symmetry of Neural Stem Cell and Progenitor Divisions in the Vertebrate Brain
Authors: Casas Gimeno Glòria , Paridaen Judith T. M. L.
Published: May 2022

Robust brain development requires the tight coordination between tissue growth, neuronal differentiation and stem cell maintenance. To achieve this, neural stem cells need to balance symmetric proliferative and terminal divisions with asymmetric divisions. In recent years, the unequal distribution of certain cellular components in mitosis has emerged as a key mechanism to regulate the symmetry of division, and the determination of equal and unequal sister cell fates. Examples of such components include polarity proteins, signaling components, and cellular structures such as endosomes and centrosomes. In several types of neural stem cells, these factors show specific patterns of inheritance that correlate to specific cell fates, albeit the underlying mechanism and the potential causal relationship is not always understood. Here, we review these examples of cellular neural stem and progenitor cell asymmetries and will discuss how they fit into our current understanding of neural stem cell function in neurogenesis in developing and adult brains. We will focus mainly on the vertebrate brain, though we will incorporate relevant examples from invertebrate organisms as well. In particular, we will highlight recent advances in our understanding of the complexities related cellular asymmetries in determining division mode outcomes, and how these mechanisms are spatiotemporally regulated to match the different needs for proliferation and differentiation as the brain forms.
Antagonistic Interaction of Selenium and Cadmium in Human Hepatic Cells Through Selenoproteins
Authors: Ramírez-Acosta S. , Uhlírová R. , Navarro F. , Gómez-Ariza J. L. , García-Barrera T.
Published: May 2022

Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic heavy metal for humans and animals, which is associated with acute hepatotoxicity. Selenium (Se) confers protection against Cd-induced toxicity in cells, diminishing the levels of ROS and increasing the activity of antioxidant selenoproteins such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx). The aim of this study was to evaluate the antagonistic effect of selenomethionine (SeMet) against Cd toxicity in HepG2 cells, through the modulation of selenoproteins. To this end, the cells were cultured in the presence of 100 µM SeMet and 5 μM, 15 µM, and 25 µM CdCl2 and a combination of both species for 24 h. At the end of the experiment, cell viability was determined by MTT assay. The total metal content of Cd and Se was analyzed by triple-quadrupole inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-QqQ-MS). To quantify the concentration of three selenoproteins [GPx, selenoprotein P (SELENOP), and selenoalbumin (SeAlb)] and selenometabolites, an analytical methodology based on column switching and a species-unspecific isotopic dilution approach using two-dimensional size exclusion and affinity chromatography coupled to ICP-QqQ-MS was applied. The co-exposure of SeMet and Cd in HepG2 cells enhanced the cell viability and diminished the Cd accumulation in cells. Se supplementation increased the levels of selenometabolites, GPx, SELENOP, and SeAlb; however, the presence of Cd resulted in a significant diminution of selenometabolites and SELENOP. These results suggested that SeMet may affect the accumulation of Cd in cells, as well as the suppression of selenoprotein synthesis induced by Cd.
Beyond Water Oxidation: Hybrid, Molecular-Based Photoanodes for the Production of Value-Added Organics
Authors: Natali Mirco , Sartorel Andrea , Ruggi Albert
Published: May 2022

The political and environmental problems related to the massive use of fossil fuels prompted researchers to develop alternative strategies to obtain green and renewable fuels such as hydrogen. The light-driven water splitting process (i.e., the photochemical decomposition of water into hydrogen and oxygen) is one of the most investigated strategies to achieve this goal. However, the water oxidation reaction still constitutes a formidable challenge because of its kinetic and thermodynamic requirements. Recent research efforts have been focused on the exploration of alternative and more favorable oxidation processes, such as the oxidation of organic substrates, to obtain value-added products in addition to solar fuels. In this mini-review, some of the most intriguing and recent results are presented. In particular, attention is directed on hybrid photoanodes comprising molecular light-absorbing moieties (sensitizers) and catalysts grafted onto either mesoporous semiconductors or conductors. Such systems have been exploited so far for the photoelectrochemical oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes in the presence of suitable co-catalysts. Challenges and future perspectives are also briefly discussed, with special focus on the application of such hybrid molecular-based systems to more challenging reactions, such as the activation of C–H bonds.
Detangling the Crosstalk Between Ascaris, Trichuris and Gut Microbiota: What´s Next?
Authors: Castañeda Sergio , Paniz-Mondolfi Alberto , Ramírez Juan David
Published: May 2022

Helminth infections remain a global public health issue, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where roundworms from theTrichuris and Ascaris genera are most prevalent. These geohelminths not only impact human health but most importantly also affect animal well-being, in particular the swine industry. Host-helminth parasite interactions are complex and at the same time essential to understand the biology, dynamics and pathophysiology of these infections. Within these interactions, the immunomodulatory capacity of these helminths in the host has been extensively studied. Moreover, in recent years a growing interest on how helminths interact with the intestinal microbiota of the host has sparked, highlighting how this relationship plays an essential role in the establishment of initial infection, survival and persistence of the parasite, as well as in the development of chronic infections. Identifying the changes generated by these helminths on the composition and structure of the host intestinal microbiota constitutes a field of great scientific interest, since this can provide essential and actionable information for designing effective control and therapeutic strategies. Helminths like Trichuris and Ascaris are a focus of special importance due to their high prevalence, higher reinfection rates, resistance to anthelmintic therapy and unavailability of vaccines. Therefore, characterizing interactions between these helminths and the host intestinal microbiota represents an important approach to better understand the nature of this dynamic interface and explore novel therapeutic alternatives based on management of host microbiota. Given the extraordinary impact this may have from a biological, clinical, and epidemiological public health standpoint, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current knowledge and future perspectives examining the parasite-microbiota interplay and its impact on host immunity.
Targeting the Plasmodium falciparum’s Thymidylate Monophosphate Kinase for the Identification of Novel Antimalarial Natural Compounds
Authors: Enninful Kweku S. , Kwofie Samuel K. , Tetteh-Tsifoanya Mark , Lamptey Amanda N. L. , Djameh Georgina , Nyarko Samuel , Ghansah Anita , Wilson Michael D.
Published: May 2022

Recent reports of resistance to artemisinin-based combination drugs necessitate the need to discover novel antimalarial compounds. The present study was aimed at identifying novel antimalarial compounds from natural product libraries using computational methods. Plasmodium falciparum is highly dependent on the pyrimidine biosynthetic pathway, a de novo pathway responsible for the production of pyrimidines, and the parasite lacks the pyrimidine salvage enzymes. The P. falciparum thymidylate monophosphate kinase (PfTMPK) is an important protein necessary for rapid DNA replication; however, due to its broad substrate specificity, the protein is distinguished from its homologs, making it a suitable drug target. Compounds from AfroDB, a database of natural products originating from Africa, were screened virtually against PfTMPK after filtering the compounds for absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET)-acceptable compounds with FAF-Drugs4. Thirteen hits with lower binding energies than thymidine monophosphate were selected after docking. Among the thirteen compounds, ZINC13374323 and ZINC13365918 with binding energies of −9.4 and −8.9 kcal/mol, respectively, were selected as plausible lead compounds because they exhibited structural properties that ensure proper binding at the active site and inhibitory effect against PfTMPK. ZINC13374323 (also called aurantiamide acetate) is known to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities, and ZINC13365918 exhibits antileishmanial activity. Furthermore, aurantiamide acetate, which is commercially available, is a constituent of Artemisia annua, the herb from which artemisinin was derived. The compound also shares interactions with several residues with a potent thymidine analog inhibitor of PfTMPK. The anti-plasmodial activity of aurantiamide acetate was evaluated in vitro, and the mean half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was 69.33 μM when synchronized P. falciparum 3D7 culture was used as compared to IC50 > 100 μM with asynchronized culture. The significance of our findings within the context of malaria treatment strategies and challenges is discussed.
Application of CRISPR/Cas Genomic Editing Tools for HIV Therapy: Toward Precise Modifications and Multilevel Protection
Authors: Maslennikova Alexandra , Mazurov Dmitriy
Published: May 2022

Although highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) can robustly control human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, the existence of latent HIV in a form of proviral DNA integrated into the host genome makes the virus insensitive to HAART. This requires patients to adhere to HAART for a lifetime, often leading to drug toxicity or viral resistance to therapy. Current genome-editing technologies offer different strategies to reduce the latent HIV reservoir in the body. In this review, we systematize the research on CRISPR/Cas-based anti-HIV therapeutic methods, discuss problems related to viral escape and gene editing, and try to focus on the technologies that effectively and precisely introduce genetic modifications and confer strong resistance to HIV infection. Particularly, knock-in (KI) approaches, such as mature B cells engineered to produce broadly neutralizing antibodies, T cells expressing fusion inhibitory peptides in the context of inactivated viral coreceptors, or provirus excision using base editors, look very promising. Current and future advancements in the precision of CRISPR/Cas editing and its delivery will help extend its applicability to clinical HIV therapy.
Fast, Simple, and Highly Specific Molecular Detection of Porphyromonas gingivalis Using Isothermal Amplification and Lateral Flow Strip Methods
Authors: Ge Duobao , Wang Fang , Hu Yanyan , Wang Bendi , Gao Xuzhu , Chen Zhenxing
Published: May 2022

Porphyromonas gingivalis is an important oral pathogen that causes periodontal disease and is difficult to culture under conventional conditions. Therefore, a reliable technique for detecting this pathogenic bacterium is required. Here, isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), a new nucleic acid amplification method, was combined with a visualization method based on nanoparticle-based lateral flow strips (LFS) for the rapid detection of P. gingivalis. The species-specific 16S rRNA sequence of P. gingivalis was used as the target for RPA, and a set of specific primer–probe combinations were designed and screened to amplify the target sequences. As a thermostatic amplification method, the RPA reaction, under optimized conditions, takes only 30 min to complete at a constant temperature (37°C). The amplification reaction products can be detected visually by LFS without any need for special equipment. The RPA-LFS method established for the detection of P. gingivalis was shown to be highly specific in distinguishing P. gingivalis from other pathogenic organisms by using 20 clinical isolates of P. gingivalis and 23 common pathogenic microorganisms. Susceptibility measurements and probit regression analysis were performed with gradient dilutions of P. gingivalis genomic DNA. The method was obtained to be highly sensitive, with a detection limit of 9.27 CFU per reaction at 95% probability. By analyzing the gingival sulcus fluid specimens from 130 patients with chronic periodontitis, the results showed that the RPA-LFS method detected 118 positive cases and 12 negative cases of P. gingivalis, and the results obtained were consistent with those of a conventional PCR assay. The RPA–LFS method is an efficient, rapid, and convenient diagnostic method that simplifies the tedious process of detecting P. gingivalis.
The Potential Association of Delayed T Lymphocyte Reconstitution Within Six Months Post-Transplantation With the Risk of Cytomegalovirus Retinitis in Severe Aplastic Anemia Recipients
Authors: Mo Wenjian , Chen Xiangting , Zhang Xu , Wang Shunqing , Li Ling , Zhang Yuehong
Published: May 2022

Background

Delayed immune reconstitution after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is significantly associated with cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. The aim of this study was to observe the recovery trend of peripheral lymphocyte subsets and immunoglobulins in HSCT recipients who developed CMV retinitis (CMVR).

Methods

We identified 37 CMVR cases and 303 non-CMVR controls in this case-control study from a database of 404 consecutive severe aplastic anemia patients who received allogeneic HSCT at a single center between 2015 and 2020. We analyzed the transplant outcomes and immune reconstitution principles with a focus on lymphocyte CD series and immunoglobulin series within the first year post-HSCT.

Results

Thirty-seven patients (55 eyes) were diagnosed with CMVR, with a mean onset time of 155 days post-HSCT. Among the 37 patients, one never had CMV detected in his blood but had a high CMV load in his intraocular fluid at the time of CMVR diagnosis. In the controls, 195 had CMV viremia and 108 did not. Compared with controls, CMVR cases had a longer duration of CMV viremia and a higher peak number of CMV load. T lymphocyte subsets including CD3, CD4 and CD8 were significantly lower in CMVR cases within six months after HSCT (all p < 0.05). Immunoglobulins also showed a slower recovery trend in CMVR cases. The recovery of B lymphocytes and natural killer cells exhibited no significant differences between the two groups.

Conclusions

It is not enough to develop fundus screening strategies by merely relying on the CMV serostatus of recipients. Dynamic and continuous monitoring of T lymphocyte subsets, especially within six months post-HSCT, as well as serum immunoglobulin levels, can provide assistance with screening program of CMVR in HSCT recipients with severe aplastic anemia.
Case Report: Successful Concomitant Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy and Carotid Endarterectomy
Authors: Liu Zhan , Liu Xiaopeng , Zheng Xia , Lin Fan , Sun Guang , Ye Zhidong , Zhen Yanan , Liu Peng
Published: May 2022

Pulmonary thromboendarterectomy is the treatment of choice for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. Pulmonary thromboendarterectomy concomitant with additional cardiac procedures was reported as safe and feasible. However, the treatment strategy for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension patients with severe carotid stenosis is still not clear. We describe a case of successful concomitant pulmonary thromboendarterectomy and carotid endarterectomy.
Hemodynamic Changes Before and After Endovascular Treatment of Type B Aortic Dissection by 4D Flow MRI
Authors: Cosset Benoit , Boussel Loic , Davila Serrano Eduardo , Millon Antoine , Douek Philippe , Farhat Fadi , Sigovan Monica
Published: May 2022

Objective:

The standard treatment for complicated Stanford type B aortic dissection (TBAD) is thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). Functional parameters, specifically blood flow, are not measured in the clinical assessment of TEVAR, yet they are of outmost importance in patient outcome. Consequently, we investigated the impact of TEVAR on the flows in the aorta and its branches in TBAD using 4D Phase-Contrast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (4D Flow MRI).

Methods

Seven patients with TBAD scheduled for TEVAR underwent pre and post-operative 4D Flow MRI. An experienced reader assessed the presence of helical flow in the false lumen (FL) using streamlines and measured net flow at specific locations. In addition, forward and reverse flows, stasis, helicity, and absolute helicity were computed automatically along the aorta centerline. Average values were then computed in the segmented vessels. Impact of TEVAR on these parameters was assessed with a Wilcoxon signed rank test. Impact of the metallic stent on the velocity quantification was assessed using intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) between velocities measured intra-stent and in adjacent stent-free regions.

Results

FL helical flow was observed proximally in 6 cases and distally in 2 cases pre-operatively. Helical flow disappeared post-TEVAR proximally, but developed distally for 2 patients. Intra-stent measures were similar to stent-free with a median difference of 0.1 L/min and an ICC equal to 0.967 (p < 0.01). Forward flow increased from 59.9 to 81.6% in the TL and significantly decreased in the FL from 15.9 to 3.3%. Similarly, reverse flow increased in the TL from 4.36 to 10.8% and decreased in the FL from 10.3 to 4.6%. No significant changes were observed in net flow for aortic branches (p > 0.05). A significant increase in FL stasis was observed (p = 0.04).

Discussion

TEVAR significantly increased forward flow in the TL and significantly decreased both forward and reverse flows in the FL. Interestingly, reverse flow in the TL increased post-TEVAR, which could be due to increased rigidity of the wall, due to the metallic stent. User independent helicity quantification enabled detection of elevated helicity at the level of secondary entry tears which had been missed by streamline visualization.
Genetically Predicted Obesity Causally Increased the Risk of Hypertension Disorders in Pregnancy
Authors: Wang Wenting , Tan Jiang-Shan , Hua Lu , Zhu Shengsong , Lin Hongyun , Wu Yan , Liu Jinping
Published: May 2022

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the causal association between obesity and hypertension disorders in pregnancy.

Methods

Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study was conducted based on the data obtained from the GIANT (n = 98,697 participants) consortium and FinnGen (n = 96,449 participants) consortium to determine the causal effect of obesity on the risk of hypertension disorders in pregnancy. Based on a genome-wide significance, 14 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with obesity-related databases were used as instrumental variables. The random-effects inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was adopted as the main analysis with a supplemented sensitive analysis of the MR-Egger and weighted median approaches.

Results

All three MR methods showed that genetically predicted obesity causally increased the risk of hypertension disorders in pregnancy. IVW analysis provided obesity as a risk factor for hypertension disorders in pregnancy with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.39 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21–1.59; P = 2.46 × 10−6]. Weighted median and MR Egger regression also showed directionally similar results [weighted median OR = 1.49 (95% CI, 1.24–1.79), P = 2.45 × 10−5; MR-Egger OR = 1.95 (95% CI, 1.35–2.82), P = 3.84 × 10−3]. No directional pleiotropic effects were found between obesity and hypertension disorders in pregnancy with both MR-Egger intercepts and funnel plots.

Conclusions

Our findings provided directed evidence that obesity was causally associated with a higher risk of hypertension disorders in pregnancy. Taking measures to reduce the proportion of obesity may help reduce the incidence of hypertension disorders in pregnancy.
Toward Understanding El Niño Southern-Oscillation’s Spatiotemporal Pattern Diversity
Authors: Jin Fei-Fei
Published: May 2022

The El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon, manifested by the great swings of large-scale sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies over the equatorial central to eastern Pacific oceans, is a major source of interannual global shifts in climate patterns and weather activities. ENSO’s SST anomalies exhibit remarkable spatiotemporal pattern diversity (STPD), with their spatial pattern diversity dominated by Central Pacific (CP) and Eastern Pacific (EP) El Niño events and their temporal diversity marked by different timescales and intermittency in these types of events. By affecting various Earth system components, ENSO and its STPD yield significant environmental, ecological, economic, and societal impacts over the globe. The basic dynamics of ENSO as a canonical oscillator generated by coupled ocean–atmosphere interactions in the tropical Pacific have been largely understood. A minimal simple conceptual model such as the recharge oscillator paradigm provides means for quantifying the linear and nonlinear seasonally modulated growth rate and frequency together with ENSO’s state-dependent noise forcing for understanding ENSO’s amplitude and periodicity, boreal winter-time phase locking, and warm/cold phase asymmetry. However, the dynamical mechanisms explaining the key features of ENSO STPD associated with CP and EP events remain to be better understood. This article provides a summary of the recent active research on the dynamics of ENSO STPD together with discussions on challenges and outlooks for theoretical, diagnostic, and numerical modeling approaches to advance our understanding and modeling of ENSO, its STPD, and their broad impacts.
Spatial Distribution and Evolution of Ancient Settlements From the Neolithic to the Bronze Age in Dalian Area, China
Authors: Liu Liang , Liu Fangfang , Zhang Wei , Xu Zhaofeng
Published: May 2022

The research on the spatial distribution and evolution of ancient settlements from the Neolithic Age to the Bronze Age in Dalian area is of great significance for a profound understanding of the prehistoric human-land relationship in Dalian area. The results showed that: ① The number of settlement sites in Dalian area showed an overall upward trend from the Mid-Neolithic to the Bronze Age. Most sites during the three periods studied were to be found 0–50 m above sea level (asl), with a significant increase in the number of sites located >50 m asl during the Bronze Age. In terms of gradient of slope, all settlements were concentrated on coastal plains or in low-altitude, hilly areas on relatively gentle slopes ranging between 0 and 6°. Settlements from each period faced in all directions, and were mainly located in river valleys or low-altitude mountain valleys with low terrains.② The proximity of ancient settlements to river courses during the Mid Holocene evolved, with Mid and Late Neolithic settlements usually distributed in the range beyond 3 km of the river buffer zone; the distribution of Bronze Age sites was relatively uniform, reflecting an increasing demand for water resources; the density of settlements was clustered between the Mid Neolithic and the Bronze Age, Neolithic sites being both the smallest in number and the most concentrated. ③ The spatiotemporal distribution and evolution of settlements in the Dalian area were influenced by the contemporary climate: the Mid Neolithic climate was warm and humid, and settlements were distributed principally on the various islands near present-day Dalian, and especially Guanglu Island; the Late Neolithic climate became increasingly drier and cooler, stimulating cultural advances and a slight increase in the number of ancient settlements, which gradually developed in the areas in and around present-day Dalian; during the cold and dry Bronze Age, the number of settlements across the Dalian region reached their peak, and it is widely distributed in various areas of Dalian. To a certain extent, this reflected a continuous improvement in the ability of the human population to adapt to the natural environment.
Significantly Improved Energy Storage Density of Polypropylene Nanocomposites via Macroscopic and Mesoscopic Structure Designs
Authors: Ji Minzun , Min Daomin , Wu Qingzhou , Mi Rui , Liu Wenfeng , Li Shengtao , Qin Shaorui , Zhu Shenglong
Published: May 2022

Polymer dielectrics with high breakdown strength are very competitively used in the dielectric capacitor, which is widely applied in pulsed power devices and power systems due to their ultra-high power density. The polypropylene (PP) film is the most popularly used polymer for the dielectric capacitor in the market. However, its low energy density cannot meet the emerging demand for miniaturized, compact, and high-energy performance dielectrics. Therefore, it is urgent to raise the energy storage density of the polypropylene film. Here, this study described the improved energy storage density of polypropylene nanocomposites via macroscopic and mesoscopic structure designs. The ABA-structured, BAB-structured, and single-layered nanocomposites were prepared by melting blending and hot-pressing methods, where “A” and “B” films refer to PP/MgO and PP/BaTO3 nanocomposite dielectrics, respectively. Then, the microstructure, dielectric, breakdown, and energy storage properties of these nanocomposite dielectrics were tested. According to the test results, for the sandwich-structured dielectrics, the B layer and the interface between adjacent layers can increase the polarization, and the A layer and the barrier at the interface can reduce the charge mobility. In addition, the sandwich structures can redistribute the electric field. Correspondingly, the breakdown strength and permittivity of PP dielectrics are improved synergistically. Compared to the PP nanocomposite dielectrics with the BAB structure, the dielectric with the ABA structure exhibits more excellent energy storage performance. The largest energy storage density of ABA films with a BaTO3 content of 45 wt% in the B layer is 3.10 J/cm3, which is 67% higher than that of pure PP. The study provides a new concept for improving the energy storage performance of polymer nanocomposite dielectrics from the perspective of macroscopic and mesoscopic structure designs.
Mechanistic Pathogenesis of Endothelial Dysfunction in Diabetic Nephropathy and Retinopathy
Authors: Yang Jing , Liu Zhangsuo
Published: May 2022

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) are microvascular complications of diabetes. Microvascular endothelial cells are thought to be the major targets of hyperglycemic injury. In diabetic microvasculature, the intracellular hyperglycemia causes damages to the vascular endothelium, via multiple pathophysiological process consist of inflammation, endothelial cell crosstalk with podocytes/pericytes and exosomes. In addition, DN and DR diseases development are involved in several critical regulators including the cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family and the Notch signal. The present review attempts to gain a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis complexities underlying the endothelial dysfunction in diabetes diabetic and retinopathy, contributing to the development of new mechanistic therapeutic strategies against diabetes-induced microvascular endothelial dysfunction.
The Role of SIRT3 in the Osteoporosis
Authors: Hu Siwang , Wang Shuangshuang
Published: May 2022

SIRT3 is an NAD+-dependent deacetylase in the mitochondria with an extensive ability to regulate mitochondrial morphology and function. It has been reported that SIRT3 participates in the occurrence and development of many aging-related diseases. Osteoporosis is a common aging-related disease characterized by decreased bone mass and fragility fractures, which has caused a huge burden on society. Current research shows that SIRT3 is involved in the physiological processes of senescence of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), differentiation of BMSCs and osteoclasts. However, the specific effects and mechanisms of SIRT3 in osteoporosis are not clear. In the current review, we elaborated on the physiological functions of SIRT3, the cell types involved in bone remodeling, and the role of SIRT3 in osteoporosis. Furthermore, it also provided a theoretical basis for SIRT3 as a therapeutic target for osteoporosis.
A Study of Dynamic Equivalence Method for Multiple Wind Farms in Urban Power Grids
Authors: Zhu Lin , Huang Shiyu , Wu Zhigang , Hu Yonghao , Liao Mengjun , Xu Min
Published: May 2022

As the number of wind farms (WFs) in urban power grids gradually increases, their dynamic equivalence is needed for stability analysis. This paper proposes a dynamic equivalence method for distributed multiple wind farms in an urban power grid. The key idea is to characterize wind farms dynamics and then use them for coherence by considering the differences between doubly-fed induction generators (DFIG) and permanent magnet direct-drive synchronous generators (PMSG). The mathematical-physical models and operational control characteristics are firstly analyzed to find the essential attributes representing the dynamic characteristics. Then we introduce the similarity based on the dynamic timing warping (DTW) distances, which help construct the clustering index for coherency wind farms. Meanwhile, comprehensive constraints, which ensure the consistency of the urban power grid topology, are adequately considered. Finally, the parameters of coherent wind farms are aggregated based on the clustering groups. The proposed method is validated in an urban grid by the time-domain simulation.
Application of Geochemical Indices in Evaluating Potentially Harmful Element Contamination at Mining Centres in the Sanyati Catchment, Zimbabwe
Authors: Mudimbu Daina , Davies Theophilus C. , Tagwireyi Dexter , Meck Maideyi L.
Published: May 2022

The release of potentially harmful elements (PHEs) into the environment in mineralised and mining areas has been associated with a variety of health-related disorders, especially non-communicable diseases such as cancer, heart and kidney failure and mental and cardiovascular disorders. The present study sought to evaluate the application of geochemical indices in assessing the degree of contamination at two sites, Kadoma and Hurungwe, both within the Sanyati Catchment, an important mining and agricultural hub in Zimbabwe. This evaluation was conducted by determining the concentration levels of 16 PHEs in 58 top-soil and stream sediment sample locations. The samples were collected during the period 2015–2017 and analysed for total PHE content using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). To assess the degree of contamination of the soils and stream sediments, contamination indices were computed and the potential ecological risk to the area was evaluated. A correlation analysis revealed PHE associations as strongly influenced by lithology and Au mineralisation in the Kadoma setting. Assessment of multi-element contamination using the pollution load index revealed significant contamination in 52% of the soil sample sites and 38% of the sediment sample sites in Kadoma. The results indicate that As, Cr, Mo, and Sb are the main contaminant PHEs in the Kadoma site. Potential ecological risk ranged from moderate to very high at 71% of soil sample locations and 53% of sediment locations and the key contributors were Sb, As, and Hg. At the Hurungwe site, Cr and Mo were found to be key contaminants with a low potential ecological risk for all samples. This study demonstrates the successful application of geochemical indices in evaluating the degree of single and multi-element contamination as the first step toward a human health risk assessment in mining environments. It is expected that these results would assist municipal authorities in their effort to formulate credible mitigative measures to protect the health of nearby residents and surrounding ecosystems and make an informed decision regarding land use planning and post-mining rehabilitation of contaminated land at mining centres.
Small Area Estimates for National Applications: A Database to Dashboard Strategy Using FIESTA
Authors: Frescino Tracey S. , McConville Kelly S. , White Grayson W. , Toney J. Chris , Moisen Gretchen G.
Published: May 2022

This paper demonstrates a process for translating a database of forest measurements to interactive dashboards through which users can access statistically defensible estimates and analyses anywhere in the conterminous US. It taps the extensive Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) plot network along with national remotely sensed data layers to produce estimates using widely accepted model-assisted and small area estimation methodologies. It leverages a decade’s worth of statistical and computational research on FIA’s flexible estimation engine, FIESTA, and provides a vehicle through which scientists and analysts can share their own tools and analytical processes. This project illustrates one pathway to moving statistical research into operational inventory processes, and makes many model-assisted and small area estimators accessible to the FIA community. To demonstrate the process, continental United States (CONUS)-wide model-assisted and small area estimates are produced for ecosubsections, counties, and level 5 watersheds (HUC 10) and made publicly available through R Shiny dashboards. Target parameters include biomass, basal area, board foot volume, proportion of forest land, cubic foot volume, and live trees per acre. Estimators demonstrated here include: the simplest direct estimator (Horvitz–Thompson), model-assisted estimators (post-stratified, generalized regression estimator, and modified generalized regression estimators), and small area estimators (empirical best linear unbiased predictors and hierarchical Bayes both at the area- and unit-level). Auxiliary data considered in the model-assisted and small area estimators included maps of tree canopy, tree classification, and climatic variables. Estimates for small domain sets were generated nationally within a few hours. Exploring results across estimators and target variables revealed the progressive gains in precision using (in order of least gain to highest gain) Horvitz–Thompson, post-stratification, modified generalized regression estimators, generalized regression estimators, area-level small area models, and unit-level small area models. Substantive gains are realized by expanding model-assisted estimators beyond post-stratification, allowing FIA to continue to take advantage of design-based inference in many cases. Caution is warranted in the use of unit-level small area models due to model mis-specification. The dataset of estimates available through the dashboards provides the opportunity for others to compare estimators and explore precision expectations over specific domains and geographic regions. The dashboards also provide a forum for future development and analyses.
Impact of Climate Change on Hydrochemical Processes at Two High-Elevation Forested Watersheds in the Southern Appalachians, United States
Authors: Huang Hailong , Wu Wei , Elliott Katherine , Miniat Chelcy , Driscoll Charles
Published: May 2022

Climate change increasingly affects primary productivity and biogeochemical cycles in forest ecosystems at local and global scales. To predict change in vegetation, soil, and hydrologic processes, we applied an integrated biogeochemical model Photosynthesis-EvapoTranspration and BioGeoChemistry (PnET-BGC) to two high-elevation forested watersheds in the southern Appalachians in the US under representative (or radiative) concentration pathway (RCP)4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. We investigated seasonal variability of the changes from current (1986–2015) to future climate scenarios (2071–2100) for important biogeochemical processes/states; identified change points for biogeochemical variables from 1931 to 2100 that indicate potential regime shifts; and compared the climate change impacts of a lower-elevation watershed (WS18) with a higher-elevation watershed (WS27) at the Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory, North Carolina, United States. We find that gross primary productivity (GPP), net primary productivity (NPP), transpiration, nitrogen mineralization, and streamflow are projected to increase, while soil base saturation, and base cation concentration and ANC of streamwater are projected to decrease at the annual scale but with strong seasonal variability under a changing climate, showing the general trend of acidification of soil and streamwater despite an increase in primary productivity. The predicted changes show distinct contrasts between lower and higher elevations. Climate change is predicted to have larger impact on soil processes at the lower elevation watershed and on vegetation processes at the higher elevation watershed. We also detect five change points of the first principal component of 17 key biogeochemical variables simulated with PnET-BGC between 1931 and 2100, with the last change point projected to occur 20 years earlier under RCP8.5 (2059 at WS18 and WS27) than under RCP4.5 (2079 at WS18 and 2074 at WS27) at both watersheds. The change points occurred earlier at WS18 than at WS27 in the 1980s and 2010s but in the future are projected to occur earlier in WS27 (2074) than WS18 (2079) under RCP4.5, implying that changes in biogeochemical cycles in vegetation, soil, and streams may be accelerating at higher-elevation WS27.
Cyclosporine A Regulates Influenza A Virus-induced Macrophages Polarization and Inflammatory Responses by Targeting Cyclophilin A
Authors: Bai Xiaoyuan , Yang Wenxian , Li Heqiao , Zhao Yuna , Fan Wenhui , Zhang He , Liu Wenjun , Sun Lei
Published: May 2022

Cyclosporine A (CsA) is an immunosuppressive drug that suppresses T cell responses and is broadly used in transplantation. Its immunosuppressive action is closely linked to its binding of cyclophilin A (CypA), which widely distributed in different cell types. CsA also regulates the functions of innate immune cells, but the mechanism remains elusive. Here, we investigate the role of CsA in regulating macrophages polarization in influenza A virus-infected mice and mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages. CsA downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines expression and upregulates anti-inflammatory cytokines expression. Mechanically, CsA decreases the polarization of macrophages into pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype and increases the polarization of macrophages into anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. Further studies show that CsA regulates macrophages polarization-associated IFN-γ/STAT1 and IL-4/STAT6 signaling pathways. Meanwhile, all these roles of CsA are eliminated when CypA is absent, suggesting that CsA regulates macrophages polarization and inflammatory responses depend on its binding to CypA. Collectively, these results reveal a crucial mechanism of CsA in attenuating IAV-induced inflammatory responses by a switch in macrophages polarization.
Bifidobacterium longum Ameliorates Ovariectomy-Induced Bone Loss via Enhancing Anti-Osteoclastogenic and Immunomodulatory Potential of Regulatory B Cells (Bregs)
Authors: Sapra Leena , Shokeen Niti , Porwal Konica , Saini Chaman , Bhardwaj Asha , Mathew Mary , Mishra Pradyumna K. , Chattopadhyay Naibedya , Dar Hamid Y. , Verma Bhupendra , Srivastava Rupesh K.
Published: May 2022

Discoveries in the last few years have emphasized the existence of an enormous breadth of communication between osteo-immune systems. These discoveries fuel novel approaches for the treatment of several bone pathologies including osteoporosis. Bifidobacterium longum (BL) is a preferred probiotic of choice due to its varied immunomodulatory potential in alleviating various inflammatory diseases. Here, we evaluate the effect of BL in an ovariectomy (ovx)-induced post-menopausal osteoporotic mouse model. Our in vitro findings reveal that BL suppresses the differentiation and functional activity of RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis in both mouse bone marrow cells and human PBMCs. Strikingly, BL-induced Bregs were found to be significantly more efficient in suppressing osteoclastogenesis and modulating Treg–Th17 cell balance with respect to control Bregs in vitro. Our in vivo µCT and bone mechanical strength data further confirm that BL supplementation significantly enhanced bone mass and bone strength, along with improving the bone microarchitecture in ovx mice. Remarkably, alterations in frequencies of CD19+CD1dhiCD5+IL-10+ Bregs, CD4+Foxp3+IL-10+ Tregs, and CD4+Rorγt+IL-17+ Th17 cells in distinct lymphoid organs along with serum-cytokine data (enhanced anti-osteoclastogenic cytokines IFN-γ and IL-10 and reduced osteoclastogenic-cytokines IL-6, IL-17, and TNF-α) strongly support the immunomodulatory potential of BL. Altogether, our findings establish a novel osteo-protective and immunomodulatory potential of BL in augmenting bone health under osteoporotic conditions.