bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and Main Controlling Factors of Fractures within Highly-Evolved Marine Shale Reservoir in Strong Deformation Zone
Authors: Zhou Xuehui , Wang Ruyue , Du Zhili , Wu Jing , Wu Zhonghu , Ding Wenlong , Li Ang , Xiao Zikang , Cui Zixian , Wang Xinghua
Published: March 2022

Based on the systematical observations of cores, thin sections, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) sections, together with the testing data and characteristic parameters, this paper discussed the characteristics and controlling factors of fractures, and their control on shale gas accumulation in the Lower Cambrian Niutitang Formation black shale reservoir of Well YX1 in the northern Guizhou Province. The results show that macro structural fractures are common in the Niutitang Formation, which can be divided into shear fractures (e.g., high dip-angle shear fractures and low dip-angle slip fractures), tensional fractures, and tension-shear fractures. Non-structural fractures in microfractures can be divided into organic-related fractures and inorganic mineral-related fractures. Most of the structural fractures were filled and the types of fillings are diverse. The staggered relationships of fractures confirm the complexity of tectonic movement in the study area. The formation of structural fractures in Well YX1 is mainly controlled by the major fault. The influence of mineral composition and content, mechanical properties, brittleness, and organic matter content of rocks on the characteristics of the fractures are from the external manifestation of sedimentary environment. Affected by diagenetic evolution, organic matter-related fractures are not common. Compared with other shale gas reservoirs in China and abroad, the organic-rich shale reservoir of Well YX1 is characterized by both “geological sweet spots” and “engineering sweet spots”; however, strong deformation and faulting have led to the loss of shale gas and damage of the overpressure environment. Therefore, it is suggested that small-scale fractures, caused by tectonic movements but without large penetrating faults, are the most favorable for shale gas reservoirs. Based on the complicated tectonic setting in northern Guizhou, the formation pressure should be taken into account.
Fate of Methane Released From a Destroyed Oil Platform in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Silva Mauricio , Roa Camilo , Ali Nizar Bel Haj , O’Reilly Carrie , Abichou Tarek , MacDonald Ian R.
Published: March 2022

In 2004, destruction of a Gulf of Mexico oil platform by Hurricane Ivan initiated a discharge of oil and gas from a water depth of 135 m, where its bundle of well conductors was broken below the seafloor near the toppled wreckage. Discharge continued largely unabated until 2019, when findings partly reported herein prompted installation of a containment device that could trap oil before it entered the water column. In 2018, prior to containment, oil and gas bubbles formed plumes that rose to the surface, which were quantified by acoustic survey, visual inspection, and discrete collections in the water column. Continuous air sampling with a cavity ring-down spectrometer (CRDS) over the release site detected atmospheric methane concentrations as high as 11.7, ∼6 times greater than an ambient baseline of 1.95 ppmv. An inverse plume model, calibrated to tracer-gas release, estimated emission into the atmosphere of 9 g/s. In 2021, the containment system allowed gas to escape into the water at 120 m depth after passing through a separator that diverted oil into storage tanks. The CRDS detected transient peaks of methane as high as 15.9 ppmv ppm while oil was being recovered to a ship from underwater storage tanks. Atmospheric methane concentrations were elevated 1–2 ppmv over baseline when the ship was stationary within the surfacing plumes of gas after oil was removed from the flow. Oil rising to the surface was a greater source of methane to the atmosphere than associated gas bubbles.
Assessing and Managing Risk in Historic Urban Areas: Current Trends and Future Research Directions
Authors: Ferreira Tiago Miguel , Ramírez Eudave Rafael
Published: March 2022

Historic urban centres are, almost by definition, risk-prone areas. The buildings in the historical sites are often highly vulnerable to natural and human-made hazards, not only due to their construction and material characteristics but also because they are usually very degraded due to ineffective maintenance and conservation policies. Moreover, the recent world tourism boom has led to a significant increase in the number of people who live, work and visit these areas, which, together with land use and climate change-related impacts, make historic centres particularly exposed areas. This paper addresses the issue of assessing and managing risk in historic urban centres departing from the complexity of defining the historic city and the concept of risk, providing a comprehensive discussion on current trends and future research directions in this field. After analysing the most suitable methodologies to assess the vulnerability of these areas to different hazards, the focus is on data collection and organisation-related issues and how the different vulnerability assessment outputs can be used to manage and mitigate risk. Vulnerability and loss scenarios, evacuation and emergency planning, and retrofit and cost-benefit analyses are some of the aspects addressed herein. This discussion includes some considerations on the accuracy of these approaches and aspects related to their calibration and validation, covering from empirical calibration models to advanced artificial Intelligence-based techniques.
Shear Strength Characteristics of Clay-Gravel Layer and Its Slope Failure Law and Mechanism
Authors: Dai Zhangjun , Huang Kang , Jiang Lingfa , Li Jian , Yu Fei , Chen Shanxiong
Published: March 2022

The Anqing Formation clay-gravel layer is widely distributed in the Anqing area of the upper reaches of the Wanjiang River. It is a typical soil-rock mixture composed of gravel and clay. The poor engineering properties of the clay-gravel layer are the main factors for the failure of the slope. On the basis of regional geological survey, the clay-gravel threshold, clay mineral composition and cementation characteristics of clay-gravel layer were studied. The in-situ horizontal push-shear tests under different gravel content, water environment and overlying load were designed and carried out, and its shear failure mode and strength were analyzed. The study found that the shear zone was in the shape of a broken line and was controlled by the particle size and distribution of the gravel. The shear strength of the clay-gravel layer is relatively high in the natural state due to the structure of the gravel and the friction and cementation force between the clay and the gravel. Water had the greatest influence on the shear strength of the clay-gravel layer, and the overlying load affected its shear strength within a certain range. The indoor rainfall erosion model test of the clay-gravel slope was carried out, and the failure and instability modes and mechanisms of the slope with different gravel contents were studied. When the gravel content was 30%, the failure of the slope surface was the development of gullies. The erosion damage process was similar to the soil slope. When the gravel content was 50%, affected by the distribution of gravel, the slope failure was manifested as the development of erosion pits, followed by local slumps, and finally the overall sliding in layers. When the gravel content was 70%, the clay particles on the slope were quickly washed away by the water flow, and the gravel skeleton of the slope formed a temporary relatively stable structure. After being disturbed, the gravel layer collapsed as a whole.
Case Report: Occurrence of Thyroid Storm in a Young Patient With Recurrent Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Authors: Iino Tatsuya , Akatsuka Masayuki , Yamamoto Shuji
Published: March 2022

Background

Thyroid storm (TS) is a fatal disease that leads to multiple organ failure and requires prompt diagnosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a trigger for thyroid crisis. However, TS and DKA rarely occur simultaneously. Moreover, owing to the rarity of the co-occurrence, the clinical course remains unclear. In this study, we present a case of TS that developed during the follow-up for repeated DKA in a young patient.

Case Presentation

A 25-year-old man with a history of recurrent DKA was brought to the emergency room frequently with similar symptoms. DKA treatment was initiated, but his tachycardia and disturbance of consciousness did not improve. Further examination of the patient revealed a Burch–Wartofsky Point Scale score of 80 points, consistent with the Japan Thyroid Association criteria. Therefore, DKA coexisting with TS was diagnosed. Antithyroid medication, inorganic iodine, and corticosteroids were then started as treatment for TS, and β-blockers were administered to manage tachycardia. With these treatments, the patient’s health improved and he recovered.

Conclusions

In severe cases of recurrent DKA, the presence of TS should be considered, and early treatment should be initiated before the patient’s condition worsens.
Observation of Clinicopathologic Features of Pituitary Adenoma With Neuronal Differentiation
Authors: Zheng Limei , Yan Xiaorong , Hu Chengcong , Zhang Peng , Chen Yupeng , Zheng Qiaoyan , Hu Liwen , Wang Mi , Li Guoping , Wu Ping , Jiang Changzhen , Tian Jing , Zhang Sheng , Wang Xingfu
Published: March 2022

Objective

To investigate the clinicopathologic features of pituitary adenoma with neuronal differentiation.

Methods

Four patients with mixed gangliocytoma-pituitary adenomas between January 2011 and January 2021 and 111 new-onset patients with adenomas between January 2019 and June 2021 who attended the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University were included in the study. The histological and immunohistochemical findings were analyzed. Neuronal differentiation marker staining was performed on new-onset adenomas, and the related literature was reviewed.

Results

Altogether, more than 100 mixed gangliocytoma-pituitary adenoma cases have been reported in the literature until now, of which pituitary-specific POU-class homeodomain transcription 1 (PIT1) positive adenomas are more frequently observed. In the present study, all 4 patients we described were female, aged 29 to 53 years (mean 39 years). Clinically, 3/4 patients presented with acromegaly, and 1/2 patients presented with headache. Histologically, the tumor was composed of two distinct mixed components. The one was a population of neoplastic ganglionic cells with large nuclei, prominent nucleoli, and abundant basophilic cytoplasm embedded in a fibrillary background. Stains of chromograninA (CgA), synaptophysin (Syn), Calretinin (CR) were positive. Axotomy-like expression was observed in neurofilament (NF) staining. PIT1 was expressed in partial ganglionic cells in all cases. The other component was a population of small uniform cells with round nuclei and acidophilic cytoplasm. Prolactin (PRL) and growth hormone (GH) were positive in all 4 cases. PIT1 was positive in the nuclei of adenomas. Although adenomas and ganglionic regions varied in histology, there was a population of cells with neuronal differentiation expressing PIT1. Additionally, axotomy-like expression of NF staining could be seen in a distant area of adenoma regions. A total of 111 cases of adenomas without ganglionic cells were included in this study, including 7 cases with neuronal differentiation. Among them, 4 cases were prolactinomas, 2 cases were somatotroph adenomas, and 1 case was corticotroph adenoma. 6/7 cases were PIT1-positive adenomas. And the remaining one case is T-PIT-positive adenoma.

Conclusions

Mixed gangliocytoma-pituitary adenomas are rare tumors with neuronal differentiation. The majority of MGAs are associated with endocrinopathies, mainly acromegaly. Our results suggest that PIT1-positive pituitary adenomas may have neural differentiation potential, which may not be unusual. This indication supports the possibility that the neuronal transdifferentiation of adenomatous cells is a possible mechanism, and the underlying mechanism requires further elucidation.
Optimal Use of Lignocellulosic Biomass for the Energy Transition, Including the Non-Energy Demand: The Case of the Belgian Energy System
Authors: Colla Martin , Blondeau Julien , Jeanmart Hervé
Published: March 2022

Biomass is a key renewable resource for energy transition and climate change mitigation. It can be used for either energy purposes (production of heat, electricity, and fuel) or non-energy demand (e.g., chemicals). This raises the question of the optimal use of biomass in energy systems. In the literature, this optimal use is often determined for one specific situation in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and rarely considering the non-energy demand. The non-energy demand is defined as the demand for energy products used as raw materials. Given the expected simultaneous changes in all industrial sectors, it is important to include the non-energy demand in the models of energy systems as they will share common resources. This paper 1) studies the optimal use of lignocellulosic biomass within an energy system including the non-energy demand and 2) analyzes the evolution of its role throughout the energy transition. Belgium is taken as a case study as it presents a non-energy demand corresponding to ∼15% of its primary energy mix. The energy system is modeled with EnergyScope TD which optimizes whole-energy systems in terms of costs under greenhouse gas emission constraints. Local and imported biomass is considered with two potential scenarios. Fourteen biomass-converting technologies are included in the model. It is shown that high-temperature heat remains a significant application for biomass in all scenarios and increases when moving toward carbon neutrality. For greenhouse gas savings below 50%, biomass is largely used for low-temperature heat. However, when aiming at reducing greenhouse gas further (>50% reduction), biomass is substantially exploited for the non-energy demand. Electricity from biomass also appears, to a lesser extent, for large greenhouse gas savings only. The integration of the non-energy demand in the simulations impacts the allocation of biomass in the system, depending on the scenario of potential considered.
Resonant Power Converters for Renewable Energy Applications: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Bughneda Ali , Salem Mohamed , Alhuyi Nazari Mohammad , Ishak Dahaman , Kamarol Mohamad , Alatai Salah
Published: March 2022

Studies on resonant power converters (RPCs) have received much attention due to the rapid growth of their potential in modern power and renewable energy applications such as photovoltaic, electric vehicles, wind, and fuel cells. Consequently, a significant number of studies focusing on RPC topologies for renewable energy applications is available. Generally, these studies have addressed several aspects, such as the development of their soft switching feature, smooth waveforms, high power density, and high efficiency. With this in mind, the present paper aims to review the development of the RPCs, challenges in their development, and comparison between common topologies as highlighted in literature. In addition, the use of RPCs in various applications of renewable energy is highlighted, focusing on some of the recently utilized topologies based on their constructions and achievements. There are still several issues and challenges in research that need to be considered for future improvement of the RPC performance in renewable energy applications. The improvement may require modifications on the circuit design or control strategies.
Bypass Inductor Type LCL Filter Parameter Optimization for Three-Level Grid-Connected Converter
Authors: Li Ning , Zhang Shiqian , Xiao Zihan , An Zhuoer , Zhang Yan , Jiang Lin
Published: March 2022

In the application of the three-level grid-connected system, passive damping is the most common method to keep the LCL filter working stably. However, in the case of high power density, the low switching frequency of the grid-connected converter results in the complexity of filter parameter design, and the increase in passive components leads to lower equipment utilization efficiency. To solve the above problems, based on the optimization of resonant frequency and system loss, this study proposes a set of LCL filter parameter design processes of a three-level neutral point clamped (NPC) converter, which can switch components freely and is easy to achieve. This study explores the theoretical evidence and application value of the proposed design, considering the influence of the current ripple and the reactive power limit. The design adopts the improved passive damping method to select the appropriate inductance ratio and impedance ratio to make the resonance frequency of the whole system and the extra loss of the system smaller. The simulation and experiments show that compared with the conventional method, the improved design method reduces the current THD of the grid side by 1.5% and the damping resistance loss by 0.17%.
Active Flow Control Based Bleed in an Axial Compressor Cascade Using Large Eddy Simulation
Authors: Gong Yun , Chen Shaowen , Zeng Cong , Wang Songtao
Published: March 2022

The performance of the compressor is of great importance in developing advanced engine technology, and it dramatically influences the cycle efficiency and safety of the engine. The compressor bleed requires a part of the main flow extraction from the passage, and the removal of the airflow plays an essential role in the performance of the compressor. The influence of the constant suction and pulsed suction on the flow structures and the aerodynamic performance in a compressor cascade, and the control mechanisms are numerically studied using large eddy simulation. At a suction mass flow rate of 0.25% of the main flow rate, constant suction leads to a 9.36% reduction in Cpt, while pulsed suction gains 24% more benefit in Cpt reduction on the basis of the constant suction with an excitation frequency of 100 Hz. It indicates that the pulsed suction has more significant potential to control the loss generation in the compressor. Afterward, the flow field of the baseline, constant suction, and pulsed suction are compared to find out the flow control mechanisms of the constant suction and pulsed suction. Two different formation mechanisms of the passage vortex are found due to the excitation effect of the pulsed suction. Besides, the results of proper orthogonal decomposition and dynamic mode decomposition show that the pulsed suction can simplify and stabilize the compressor flow field, which could lead to a further benefit in Cpt.
Occurrences, Sources, and Human Health Risk Assessments of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Marine Organisms From Temperate Coastal Area
Authors: Ji Shuheng , Yin Fang , Zhang Weiwei , Song Zhibo , Qin Boyu , Su Penghao , Zhang Junbo , Kitazawa Daisuke
Published: March 2022

The pollution characteristics of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in marine organism species (6 species of fishes and 2 species of crustaceans) from the coastal area of the East China Sea were determined. The concentrations of 16 PAHs in the studied organisms ranged from 29.73 to 87.02 ng/g dw and 2- and 3-ring PAHs were the most abundant compounds in the aquatic organisms. The habitat, diet and predator-prey relationship have posed potential effects on the PAH accumulation in marine organisms. The source identification of PAHs was performed by using the molecular diagnostic ratios and principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed that the main sources of PAHs in the marine organisms were coal combustion, followed by mixture of gasoline combustion, oil combustion, crude oil spill and vehicle emissions. The incremental lifetime cancer risk of human via ingestion process of marine organisms in this sea area was also estimated and the assessment showed that it posed an acceptable but non-negligible risk to human health.
Whole Exome Sequencing in 16p13.11 Microdeletion Patients Reveals New Variants Through Deductive and Systems Medicine Approaches
Authors: Granata Paola , Cocciadiferro Dario , Zito Alessandra , Pessina Chiara , Bassani Alessandro , Zambonin Fabio , Novelli Antonio , Fasano Mauro , Casalone Rosario
Published: March 2022

The 16p13.11 microdeletion, whose prevalence in the general population is about 0.04%, is known in literature as a predisposition factor to neurodevelopmental disorders, being found in about 0.13% of patients with schizophrenia, in 0.5–0.6% of patient with epilepsy, cognitive impairment, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and aggressiveness. The goal of this study was to identify a specific gene set pattern unique for the affected patients in comparison with other familial components. Due to the incomplete penetrance of this copy number variant (CNV), we studied by whole exome sequencing (WES), with particular regard of 850 SFARI genes, three families with an affected member carrier of inherited 16p13.11 and 16p13.11p12.3 microdeletion and one family with an affected member with a de novo 16p13.11 microdeletion. By combining a deductive approach together with personalized network models, we identified gene signatures potentially capable of explaining the clinical phenotype. Candidate variants in genes of interest were identified as possibly involved in determining the neurological phenotype of the four patients, such as compound heterozygosity in CECR2, variants in MTOR and RICTOR genes, compound heterozygous single nucleotide variants in the LRRK2 gene. Moreover, genes present in the microdeletion region were partially present as central nodes, with a focus on NDE1. No additional pathogenetic or uncertain CNVs were found in all four patients. No significant variants were detected in genes included in the microdeletion in patients 1, 2 and 3, excluding the finding of unmasked recessive variants. In conclusion, WES is a fundamental tool in the genetic investigation of patients having a predisposing variant, which is not sufficient to define the clinical phenotype. Moreover, the analysis of WES data using Systems medicine tools, such as personalized network models, led to the prioritization of genes on a high throughput scale and to discover variants in genes that were not prioritized at first.
Case Report: A Novel ARMC5 Germline Mutation in a Patient with Primary Bilateral Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia and Hypogammaglobulinemia
Authors: Vena Walter , Morelli Valentina , Carrabba Maria , Elli Francesca , Fabio Giovanna , Muller Ilaria , Lucca Camilla , Maffini Maria Antonia , Lania Andrea Gerardo , Mantovani Giovanna , Arosio Maura
Published: March 2022

Primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH) represents an uncommon cause of endogenous hypercortisolism. Since the first description in 2003 in a French cohort, many papers have been published describing families as well as isolated individuals affected with this condition, who were found to harbor a genetic variants in the armadillo-repeat containing 5 (ARMC5) gene, a tumor-suppressor gene with a still unknown role in the disease pathogenesis. Studies in rat models suggested a possible link between ARMC5 damaging variants and the impairment of the cell-mediated immune response, leading to a higher susceptibility to bacterial and viral infections. To our knowledge, we describe the first case of a patient affected by PBMAH with hypogammaglobulinemia and monthly relapsing human herpes simplex viral infections. After the detection of subclinical Cushing’s syndrome, a unilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed. Subsequent genetic analysis of ARMC5 performed on genomic DNA extracted both from the adrenal tissue and lymphocytes revealed a novel somatic frameshift variant in exon 1 (c.231_265del:p.A77Afs*13) and a novel germline variant in exon 6 (c.2436del: p. C813Vfs*104). After adrenalectomy, we observed a significant improvement of clinical features concerning both hypercortisolism and relapsing viral infections, thus suggesting a possible adjuvant role of hypercortisolism on a genetic-based derangement of the immune system.
Preterm Birth in Women With HIV: The Role of the Placenta
Authors: Ikumi Nadia M. , Matjila Mushi
Published: March 2022

Maternal HIV infection is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth (PTB). However, the mechanisms underlying this increased risk in women with HIV remain poorly understood. In this regard, it is well-established that labor is an inflammatory process and premature activation of the pro-inflammatory signals (associated with labor) can result in preterm labor which can subsequently lead to PTB. HIV infection is known to cause severe immune dysregulation within its host characterized by altered immune profiles, chronic inflammation and eventually, the progressive failure of the immune system. The human placenta comprises different immune cell subsets, some of which play an important role during pregnancy including participating in the inflammatory processes that accompany labor. It is therefore plausible that HIV/antiretroviral therapy (ART)-associated immune dysregulation within the placental microenvironment may underlie the increased risk of PTB reported in women with HIV. Here, we review evidence from studies that point toward the placental origin of spontaneous PTB and discuss possible ways maternal HIV infection and/or ART could increase this risk. We focus on key cellular players in the maternal decidua including natural killer cells, CD4+ T cells including CD4+ regulatory T cells, CD8+ T cells as well as macrophages.
Host Immunity Influences the Composition of Murine Gut Microbiota
Authors: Van averbeke Vincent , Berkell Matilda , Mysara Mohamed , Rodriguez-Ruiz Juan Pablo , Xavier Basil Britto , De Winter Fien H. R. , Jongers Bart ‘s , Jairam Ravi Kumar , Hotterbeekx An , Goossens Herman , Cohen E. Suzanne , Malhotra-Kumar Surbhi , Kumar-Singh Samir
Published: March 2022

The influence of gut microbiota on host immunity is widely studied, and its disturbance has been linked to several immune-mediated disorders. Conversely, whether and how inherently disturbed canonical Th1 (pro-inflammatory) and/or Th2 (anti-inflammatory) immune pathways modify the host microbiome is not sufficiently investigated. Here, we characterized the humoral, cellular, and cytokine immunity, and associated alterations in gut microbiota of naïve wild-type mice (C57BL/6 and BALB/c), and mice with deficiencies in Th2 responses (IL-4Rα and IL-33 knockout mice) or in both Th1 and Th2 responses (NODscidgamma, NSG mice). A global analysis byde novoclustering of 16S rRNA profiles of the gut microbiota independently grouped wild-type immunocompetent (C57BL/6 and BALB/c), Th2-deficient (IL-4Rα-/-and IL-33-/-), and severely immunodeficient (NSG) mice; where wild-type mice, but not Th2 or severely immunodeficient mice, were enriched in gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids. These include members of phyla Firmicutes, Verrucomicrobia, and Bacteroidetes such asLactobacillusspp.,Akkermansia muciniphila, andOdoribacterspp. Further comparison of the two naïve wild-type mouse strains showed higher microbial diversity (Shannon), primarily linked to higher richness (Chao1), as well as a distinct difference in microbial composition (weighted UniFrac) in BALB/c mice compared to C57BL/6. T-cell and blood cytokine analyses demonstrated a Th1-polarization in naïve adaptive immunity in C57BL/6 animals compared to BALB/c mice, and an expected Th2 deficient cellular response in IL-4Rα-/-and IL-33-/-mice compared to its genetic background BALB/c strain. Together, these data suggest that alterations in the Th1/Th2 balance or a complete ablation of Th1/Th2 responses can lead to major alterations in gut microbiota composition and function. Given the similarities between the human and mouse immune systems and gut microbiota, our finding that immune status is a strong driver of gut microbiota composition has important consequences for human immunodeficiency studies.
The HCV Envelope Glycoprotein Down-Modulates NF-κB Signalling and Associates With Stimulation of the Host Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Pathway
Authors: McKay Lindsay G. A. , Thomas Jordan , Albalawi Wejdan , Fattaccioli Antoine , Dieu Marc , Ruggiero Alessandra , McKeating Jane A. , Ball Jonathan K. , Tarr Alexander W. , Renard Patricia , Pollakis Georgios , Paxton William A.
Published: March 2022

Following acute HCV infection, the virus establishes a chronic disease in the majority of patients whilst few individuals clear the infection spontaneously. The precise mechanisms that determine chronic HCV infection or spontaneous clearance are not completely understood but are proposed to be driven by host and viral genetic factors as well as HCV encoded immunomodulatory proteins. Using the HIV-1 LTR as a tool to measure NF-κB activity, we identified that the HCV E1E2 glycoproteins and more so the E2 protein down-modulates HIV-1 LTR activation in 293T, TZM-bl and the more physiologically relevant Huh7 liver derived cell line. We demonstrate this effect is specifically mediated through inhibiting NF-κB binding to the LTR and show that this effect was conserved for all HCV genotypes tested. Transcriptomic analysis of 293T cells expressing the HCV glycoproteins identified E1E2 mediated stimulation of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response pathway and upregulation of stress response genes such as ATF3. Through shRNA mediated inhibition of ATF3, one of the components, we observed that E1E2 mediated inhibitory effects on HIV-1 LTR activity was alleviated. Our in vitro studies demonstrate that HCV Env glycoprotein activates host ER Stress Pathways known to inhibit NF-κB activity. This has potential implications for understanding HCV induced immune activation as well as oncogenesis.
Genetic Stock Identification and Adaptability of Hatchery-Reared Black Rockfish, Sebastes schlegelii, Released Into the North Yellow Sea waters
Authors: Liu Qi , Wang Ziwei , Li Weiyuan , Zhang Qi , Liu Binwei , Li Meiyuan , Liu Ying , Tian Tao , Yan Hongwei
Published: March 2022

Successful stock enhancement refers to the maintenance of economic profit, whilst minimizing negative genetic and ecological effects. As hatchery environments differ from natural habitats, post-release identification of hatchery-reared juveniles, and estimation of their adaptability are essential steps in conducting responsible stock enhancement. The black rockfish is an important fishery species in Japan, South Korea and China. Overfishing has dramatically decreased natural resources and a stock enhancement program was first initiated in the Liaodong peninsula in 2019. We traced this program and used nine microsatellite markers to identify 279 individuals as being hatchery-reared, out of 710 captured fish, with a resource contribution rate of 39.30%. These results indicated that stock enhancement of this species is likely to maintain a positive economic performance. To understand the potential genetic impacts on the local wild population, the genetic patterns ofS. schlegeliistocks (wild controls from 2017, wild controls from 2018, female broodstock from 2019, recaptured hatchery-reared fish from 2019 and recaptured non-hatchery-reared fish from 2019 stocks) from the same habitat were evaluated before and after artificial stocking. We found that theS. schlegeliipopulation was able to maintain high genetic diversity and showed weak genetic differentiation, but potential genetic introgression derived from stock enhancement should be concerned. The hatchery-reared individuals showed good adaptability, as shown by feeding condition and growth status. There was no obvious morphology difference between hatchery-reared fish and their wild counterparts, but hatchery-reared fish seemed to be bigger in size (significantly higher in MDB and BW), had a larger head (significantly larger in PRL/HL and ID/HL) and smaller paired fins (significantly smaller PCFL/BL), when compared with wild individuals across all investigation months. Our results provided insights into management of black rockfish enhancement in the future.
Impacts of a Changing Ecosystem on the Feeding and Feeding Conditions for Atlantic Salmon During the First Months at Sea
Authors: Utne Kjell Rong , Skagseth Øystein , Wennevik Vidar , Broms Cecilie Thorsen , Melle Webjørn , Thorstad Eva B.
Published: March 2022

During the last decades, many wild Atlantic salmon populations have declined dramatically. One hypothesis for an observed reduction in salmon marine growth and survival is reduced abundance of prey. However, the effect of spatial and temporal variation in marine prey abundance on post-smolt feeding conditions is poorly understood. Here we use stomach content data from 2572 salmon post-smolts sampled during 25 years in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean to examine spatial and temporal changes in diet and stomach fullness. Sandeel larvae west of Scotland and Ireland and in the northern North Sea, herring larvae in the eastern part of the Norwegian Sea, and amphipods in the western part of the Norwegian Sea were particularly important prey species. There was a reduction of fish larvae in the post-smolt stomachs over a large geographic area when comparing the period 1995–2004 to 2008–2019. This may be result of a bottom-up driven process, as increasing extent of Arctic Water masses and zooplankton abundance were positively correlated with post-smolt stomach fullness in the Norwegian Sea. Furthermore, the interspecific competition for fish larvae between post-smolts and mackerel may have increased with a larger mackerel stock expanding the feeding migrations northwards since 2007.
Experimental Study on Axial Compression Performance of Thin-Walled Steel Tube Lightweight Concrete Columns With Composite Section
Authors: Li Yue , Yan Yong , Meng Xue , Zhang Kechao , Li Xiaorun , Gao Chongming
Published: March 2022

To provide references for the use of fabricated thin-walled cold-formed steel tubular lightweight concrete columns, the axial compression tests were conducted on single-limb and double-limb specimens. The results were compared with hollow specimens to analyze the effects of the cross-sectional size of the members, wall thickness, and steel ratio of the sections on the axial load-bearing capacity of the specimens. The test results show the following: 1) under the axial load, the typical damage of the specimens is local buckling of the steel tube and local crushing of the concrete. 2) The ultimate bearing capacity of the double-limb specimen is the highest. For the specimen with the sectional height-width ratio of 1.43, the ultimate bearing capacity of the double-limb specimen is 275.71% higher than that of the hollow steel tubular column and 241.49% that of single-limb specimens. 3) Based on the material superposition strength theory, the calculating method of the axial load-bearing capacity of thin-walled cold-formed steel tubular lightweight concrete columns was proposed and verified by comparing with the test results, which provides the design guidance for such members.
Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis for Benefit-Risk Analysis by National Regulatory Authorities
Authors: Chisholm Orin , Sharry Patrick , Phillips Lawrence
Published: March 2022

The approval process for pharmaceuticals has always included a consideration of the trade-offs between benefits and risks. Until recently, these trade-offs have been made in panel discussions without using a decision model to explicitly consider what these trade-offs might be. Recently, the EMA and the FDA have embraced Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) as a methodology for making approval decisions. MCDA offers an approach for improving the quality of these decisions and, in particular, by using quantitative and qualitative data in a structured decision model to make trade-offs in a logical, transparent and auditable way. This paper will review the recent use of MCDA by the FDA and EMA and recommend its wider adoption by other National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs) and the pharmaceutical industry.
Assessment of Functioning in Older Adults Hospitalized in Long-Term Care in Portugal: Analysis of a Big Data
Authors: Ramos Ana , Fonseca César , Pinho Lara , Lopes Manuel , Brites Rui , Henriques Adriana
Published: March 2022

Background

Functioning assessment is a key tool for health professionals to characterize the person's degree of dependence and plan care.

Objectives

The objectives were: (1) know the functioning components of older adults hospitalized in the National Network of Continuous Integrated Health Care (NNCIHC) in Portugal; and (2) compare the conceptual frameworks used in this network with the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

Methods

A longitudinal retrospective study is made with 171,414 individuals aged 65 years and over. The Principal Components Analysis (PCA) was realized to reduce the number of variables, previously suggested by a scoping review, about the concepts that characterize the functionality. Then, a consensus meeting was held, where the items were matched with the ICF.

Results

The average age of the sample is 80.17 years old (SD = 7.383), predominantly female (59%), without a spouse (54%), and with <6 years of education (56.4%). Four concepts were grouped: mobility, life daily activities, instrumental activities, and cognitive status that demonstrated good internal consistency. Most items correspond to ICF, except for the item “taking medication.”

Conclusion

Theoretical and conceptual similarities support the use of instruments based on the ICF in Portugal's healthcare network. We suggest that ICF also encompasses a specific dimension related to medication management, given its importance for people's health.
The Effect of SIRT3/Ac-SOD2 Mediated Oxidative Stress and HCN1 Channel Activity on Anesthesia/Surgery Induced Anxiety-Like Behavior in Mice
Authors: Miao Hui-Hui , Liu Qiang , Wang Ning , Liu Yan-Ping , Chen Chen , Wang Hai-Bi , Huang Hui , Wu Wei-Feng , Lin Jia-Tao , Qiu Yong-Kang , Zhang Chuan-Wu , Zhou Cheng-Hua , Wu Yu-Qing
Published: March 2022

Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric diseases, and perioperative factors often increase the incidence of anxiety. However, the mechanism and treatment for perioperative anxiety, especially anesthesia/surgery-induced postoperative anxiety, are largely unknown. Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) which located in the mitochondria is the NAD-dependent deacetylase protein. SIRT3 mediated oxidative stress is associated with several neuropsychiatric diseases. In addition, hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated 1 (HCN1) channel is also reported involved in anxiety symptoms. The purpose was to assess the role of SIRT3 on postoperative anxiety like behavior in C57/BL6 mice. We found that SIRT3 level reduced and HCN1 expression level increased in mice medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) as well as anxiety like behavior postoperatively. In interventional research, SIRT3 adeno-associated virus vector or control vector was injected into the mPFC brain region. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence staining, and western blotting were employed to detect oxidative stress reactions and HCN1 channel activity. SIRT3 overexpression attenuated postoperative anxiety in mice. Superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) acetylation levels, SOD2 oxidative stress activity, mitochondrial membrane potential levels, and HCN1 channels were also inhibited by SIRT3 overexpression. Furthermore, the HCN1 channel inhibitor ZD7288 significantly protected against anesthesia/surgery-induced anxiety, but without SIRT3/ac-SOD2 expression or oxidative stress changes. Our results suggest that SIRT3 may achieve antianxiety effects through regulation of SOD2 acetylation-mediated oxidative stress and HCN1 channels in the mPFC, further strengthening the therapeutic potential of targeting SIRT3 for anesthesia/surgery-induced anxiety-like behavior.
The Effect of Relaxation Therapy on Hypoxia During Intravenous Propofol Anesthesia in Patients With Pre-operative Anxiety: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Fang Yiling , Jing Qi , Cao Silu , Sun Xiaoru , Zhang Hui , Tian Li , Li Cheng
Published: March 2022

Background

This study aimed to investigate the effect of relaxation therapy on hypoxia during intravenous propofol anesthesia in patients with pre-operative anxiety.

Methods

Two-hundred and eighty patients were randomly categorized in the experimental group (relaxation therapy group) and control group. The Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (S-STAI) was administered 30 to 60 min pre-operatively to assess the patient's current anxiety status and select appropriate patients. Patients in the experimental group received pre-surgical relaxation therapy. Decrease in oxygen saturation during the procedure was recorded for each patient group, and the relevant data were compared between the two groups.

Results

The basic S-STAI scores of the experimental and control groups were 56.88 ± 2.91 and 57.27 ± 3.56, respectively (p = 0.331). The difference was not statistically significant. The incidence of hypoxia in the experimental group during painless artificial abortion [routine blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) <95%, duration >15 s] decreased from 30 to 12.3%.

Conclusion

Relaxation therapy may effectively reduce the incidence of hypoxia during painless artificial abortion by using less dose of propofol. It may help patients relieve their anxiety and improve perioperative safety.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000032109).
Comprehensive Analysis of SMC Gene Family Prognostic Value and Immune Infiltration in Patients With Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Nie Hui , Wu Yanhao , Ou Chunlin , He Xiaoyun
Published: March 2022

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is a malignant tumor with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Members from the structural maintenance of chromosomes (SMC) gene family function as oncogenes in various tumor types, but their roles in PAAD have not been elucidated. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of the SMC family in tumor progression and cancer immune infiltration in PAAD using integrative bioinformatic analyses. The results showed that the SMC 1A, 2, 3, 4, and 6 were overexpressed in PAAD tissues; of these, SMC 1A, 4, 5, and 6 could be potential prognostic biomarkers for PAAD. The expression of SMC genes was found to be strongly associated with immune cell infiltration. According to the infiltrative status of various immune cells, the mRNA expression of SMC genes in PAAD was associated with the overall and recurrence-free survival of patients. In conclusion, the SMC gene family is associated with PAAD and may be involved in tumorigenesis and cancer-immune interactions; thus, members from this gene family may serve as promising prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers of PAAD.
Potential of Polyamide Nanofibers With Natamycin, Rosemary Extract, and Green Tea Extract in Active Food Packaging Development: Interactions With Food Pathogens and Assessment of Microbial Risks Elimination
Authors: Lencova Simona , Stiborova Hana , Munzarova Marcela , Demnerova Katerina , Zdenkova Kamila
Published: March 2022

Increasing microbial safety and prolonging the shelf life of products is one of the major challenges in the food industry. Active food packaging made from nanofibrous materials enhanced with antimicrobial substances is considered a promising way. In this study, electrospun polyamide (PA) nanofibrous materials functionalized with 2.0 wt% natamycin (NAT), rosemary extract (RE), and green tea extract (GTE), respectively, were prepared as active packaging and tested for the food pathogens Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enterica, and Staphylococcus aureus. The PAs exhibited: (i) complete retention of bacterial cells reaching 6.0–6.4 log10removal, (ii) antimicrobial activity with 1.6–3.0 log10suppression, and (iii) antibiofilm activity with 1.7–3.0 log10suppression. The PAs prolonged the shelf life of chicken breast; up to 1.9 log10(CFU/g) suppression of total viable colonies and 2.1 log10(CFU/g) suppression of L. monocytogenes were observed after 7 days of storage at 7°C. A beneficial effect on pH and sensory quality was verified. The results confirm microbiological safety and benefits of PA/NAT, PA/RE, and PA/GTE and their potential in developing functional and ecological packaging.
Graphene Oxide and Biomolecules for the Production of Functional 3D Graphene-Based Materials
Authors: Passaretti Paolo
Published: March 2022

Graphene and its derivatives have been widely employed in the manufacturing of novel composite nanomaterials which find applications across the fields of physics, chemistry, engineering and medicine. There are many techniques and strategies employed for the production, functionalization, and assembly of graphene with other organic and inorganic components. These are characterized by advantages and disadvantages related to the nature of the specific components involved. Among many, biomolecules and biopolymers have been extensively studied and employed during the last decade as building blocks, leading to the realization of graphene-based biomaterials owning unique properties and functionalities. In particular, biomolecules like nucleic acids, proteins and enzymes, as well as viruses, are of particular interest due to their natural ability to self-assemble via non-covalent interactions forming extremely complex and dynamic functional structures. The capability of proteins and nucleic acids to bind specific targets with very high selectivity or the ability of enzymes to catalyse specific reactions, make these biomolecules the perfect candidates to be combined with graphenes, and in particular graphene oxide, to create novel 3D nanostructured functional biomaterials. Furthermore, besides the ease of interaction between graphene oxide and biomolecules, the latter can be produced in bulk, favouring the scalability of the resulting nanostructured composite materials. Moreover, due to the presence of biological components, graphene oxide-based biomaterials are more environmentally friendly and can be manufactured more sustainably compared to other graphene-based materials assembled with synthetic and inorganic components. This review aims to provide an overview of the state of the art of 3D graphene-based materials assembled using graphene oxide and biomolecules, for the fabrication of novel functional and scalable materials and devices.