bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ionic salts with super oxidizing ions O2+ and N5+: Potential candidates for high-energy oxidants
Authors: Yang Xinbo , Li Nan , Li Yuchuan , Pang Siping
Published: September 2022

As an important component of energetic materials, high-energy oxidant is one of the key materials to improve their energy. The oxidizability of oxidant directly determines the intensity of combustion or explosion reaction. It is generally believed that when the nature of reductant is certain, the stronger the oxidizability, the more intense the reaction. Dioxygenyl cation (O2+) and pentazenium cation (N5+) are two kinds of super oxidizing ions, which oxidizability are comparable to that of fluorine. A series of high energetic ionic salts with O2+, N5+ and various anions as active components are designed, and the results show that: 1) Most ionic salts have appropriate thermodynamic stability, high density (up to 2.201 g/cm3), high enthalpy of formation (up to 1863.234 kJ/mol) and excellent detonation properties (up to 10.83 km/s, 45.9 GPa); 2) The detonation velocity value of O2 (nitrotetrazole-N-oxides) and O2B(N3)4 exceed 10.0 km/s, and the detonation pressure exceed 45.0 GPa because of the O2+ salts have higher crystal density (g/cm3) and oxygen balance than that of N5+salts; 3) With a higher nitrogen content than O2+, the N5+ salts have higher enthalpy of formation, which exceed 330 kJ/mol than that of O2+ salts; 4) The linear spatial structure of N5+ leads the salts to reduce their density. Encouragingly, this study proves that these super oxidizing ions have the potential to become high-energy oxidants, which could be a theoretical reference for the design of new high energetic materials.
Transition-metal-free approach to quinolines via direct oxidative cyclocondensation reaction of N,N-dimethyl enaminones with o-aminobenzyl alcohols
Authors: Rao Kairui , Chai Zhangmengjie , Zhou Pan , Liu Donghan , Sun Yulin , Yu Fuchao
Published: September 2022

A transition-metal-free method for the construction of 3-substituted or 3,4-disubstituted quinolines from readily available N,N-dimethyl enaminones and o-aminobenzyl alcohols is reported. The direct oxidative cyclocondensation reaction tolerates broad functional groups, allowing the efficient synthesis of various quinolines in moderate to excellent yields. The reaction involves a C (sp3)-O bond cleavage and a C=N bind and a C=C bond formation during the oxidative cyclization process, and the mechanism was proposed.
New adverse coronary events in valve-in-valve TAVR and native TAVR—A 2-year matched cohort
Authors: Koren Ofir , Patel Vivek , Naami Robert , Naami Edmund , Nagasaka Takashi , Shechter Alon , Natanzon Sharon Shalom , Kohan Siamak , Allison Zev , Lerner Addee , Cheng Daniel Eugene , Chakravarty Tarun , Nakamura Mamoo , Cheng Wen , Jilaihawi Hasan , Makkar Raj R.
Published: September 2022

Objective

To assess the incidence of new adverse coronary events (NACE) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and valve-in-valve TAVR (ViV-TAVR).

Background

ViV-TAVR is an accepted treatment for degenerative prostheses among patients with high surgical-risk. TAVR studies have suggested an increased risk of coronary artery obstruction and flow stasis causing thrombus formation. Whether contemporary ViV-TAVR is associated with higher rate of coronary events compared to TAVR is unknown.

Methods

We used data from 1,224 TAVR patients between 2016 and 2021. We propensity-matched patients following ViV-TAVR and TAVR by significant predictors to overcome confounders in patients' baseline characteristics and procedural factors.

Results

The matched population included 129 patients in each group. In line with prior reports, there was a higher in-hospital coronary artery obstruction rate with ViV-TAVR (3.1 vs. 1.6%; p = 0.23). Despite this, 2-year cumulative NACE rates were similar between groups (4.7 vs. 6.2%, respectively, p = 0.79), with no difference between its components: myocardial infarction (MI) (p = 0.210), unplanned coronary catheterization (p = 0.477), or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) (p = 0.998). Moreover, hypoattenuated leaflets thickening (HALT) at 30-day CT was observed in nearly a quarter of the patients with no difference between groups (23.9 vs. 23.1%, HR 1.02, 95% CI 0.50–1.28, p = 0.872). The progression rate of the coronary artery calcium score (CACS), assessed in a third of patients, was similar between groups (p log-rank = 0.468, 95% CI 0.12–1.24). Low coronary artery height was an unfavorable predictor for in-hospital coronary obstruction and 2-year NACE rate (HR 1.20 and HR 1.25, p = 0.001 and p < 0.0001, respectively).

Conclusion

At 2-year follow-up, ViV-TAVR was not associated with a higher rate of myocardial infarction, unplanned catheterization, coronary artery bypass grafting, or hypoattenuated leaflet thickening.
Twenty-four hour variability of inverted T-waves in patients with apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ma Fei , Yang Yating , Tao Jingwen , Deng Xiaoyan , Chen Xufeng , Fan Jingjing , Bai Xuelei , Dai Tongyu , Li Sheng , Yang Xiaoyun , Lin Fan
Published: September 2022

Background

Patients with apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (ApHCM) have marked inverted T-waves that vary over several years. Inverted T-waves in ApHCM are unstable, but it is unclear whether this change is due to coronary artery disease (CAD) or if it is a characteristic of ApHCM itself. We aimed to study the characteristics of inverted T-waves in patients with ApHCM over the course of 24 h to improve the diagnostic indices of ApHCM.

Methods

We examined 83 patients with ApHCM and 89 patients with CAD (who served as the control group). All patients underwent a 24-h dynamic electrocardiogram (ECG). We analyzed the average depth of inverted T-waves per minute and sorted them from shallow to deep; the sorted ECG segments at the 10th, 50th, and 90th positions of the T-wave were subsequently analyzed.

Results

The amplitudes of inverted T-waves in ApHCM corresponding to the 10th, 50th, and 90th percentiles were −5.13 ± 4.11, −8.10 ± 4.55, and −10.9 ± 5.04 mm, respectively. Changes in the degree of inverted T-waves were greater in ApHCM than in CAD. T-wave amplitudes in ApHCM were strongly associated with heart rate and circadian rhythm and only weakly associated with CAD and posture. Maximum T-wave amplitudes in the CAD group were <10 mm, while 68% of patients with ApHCM had maximum T-wave amplitudes >10 mm, and all patients with ApHCM aged <50 years had maximum T-wave amplitudes >10 mm.

Conclusion

Notable variations in the T-waves of patients with ApHCM were observed over 24 h. ECG examinations during states of inactivity (comparable to sleep) improved the sensitivity of the diagnosis of ApHCM. Inverted T-wave amplitudes correlated with heart rate and circadian rhythm, where T-wave changes in ApHCM may be due to the normalization of abnormal T-waves effect. Identifying T-wave amplitudes >10 mm can effectively improve the diagnostic rate of ApHCM, especially in patients aged <50 years. The short-term change in T-waves in patients with ApHCM could serve as a novel index that will help in the diagnosis of ApHCM.
Safety profile of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors: A brief summary
Authors: Mascolo Annamaria , Di Napoli Raffaella , Balzano Nunzia , Cappetta Donato , Urbanek Konrad , De Angelis Antonella , Scisciola Lucia , Di Meo Irene , Sullo Maria Giuseppa , Rafaniello Concetta , Sportiello Liberata
Published: September 2022

A new therapeutic class of oral agents firstly used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus is represented by gliflozines or sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. SGLT2 inhibitors might be effective alone or in combination with any other drugs. This therapeutic class currently includes five agents: canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, ertugliflozin, and sotagliflozin. SGLT2 inhibitors prevent the renal reabsorption of filtered glucose and sodium by blocking the SGLT2 co-transporters in the proximal convoluted renal tubule, facilitating glucose excretion in the urine (glycosuria) and lowering blood glucose levels. SGLT2 inhibitors have also shown to have pleiotropic effects and determine cardiovascular and renal prevention, thus leading to an extension of their therapeutic indication to include the heart failure. Despite their clinical benefits, warnings about adverse events have been implemented by Regulatory Agencies in the product's information since their introduction to the market. In particular, SGLT2 inhibitors have shown a strong impact on a high number of risk factors. They can cause hypoglycaemia, hypotension, lower limb amputation, fractures, genito-urinary infections, and diabetic ketoacidosis with different frequencies of onset. Despite some of these events are rare, they can lead to serious and dangerous complications, highlighting the importance of a strict monitoring of patients. Overall, SLGT-2 inhibitors are effective antidiabetic drugs with favorable advantages in renal and cardiovascular protection, and with a generally well-tolerated safety profile. This review aims to summarize the safety profile of SGLT2 inhibitors available in the market.
Dietary therapy in abdominal aortic aneurysm — Insights from clinical and experimental studies
Authors: Yin Li , Gregg Alexander Christopher , Riccio Alessandra Marie , Hoyt Nicholas , Islam Zain Hussain , Ahn Jungeun , Le Quang , Patel Paranjay , Zhang Mengxue , He Xinran , McKinney Matthew , Kent Eric , Wang Bowen
Published: September 2022

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a prevalent vascular disease with high mortality rates upon rupture. Despite its prevalence in elderly populations, there remain limited treatment options; invasive surgical repair, while risky, is the only therapeutic intervention with proven clinical benefits. Dietary factors have long been suggested to be closely associated with AAA risks, and dietary therapies recently emerged as promising avenues to achieve non-invasive management of a wide spectrum of diseases. However, the role of dietary therapies in AAA remains elusive. In this article, we will summarize the recent clinical and pre-clinical efforts in understanding the therapeutic and mechanistic implications of various dietary patterns and therapeutic approaches in AAA.
Characteristics and related mechanisms of the persistent extreme precipitation in August 2020 over Western China
Authors: Qianrong Ma , Fang Jia , Xiaoxue Wu , Youzhi Chang , Rong Zhi , Guoling Feng
Published: September 2022

The persistent heavy precipitation that occurred in most of West China (WC) during August 11–18, 2020, generated the highest rainfall record since recording began in 1961 and was selected as one of the top 10 worst national natural disasters of 2020 in China. Favorable circulation was sustained during August; WC was positioned between two anomalous high-pressure centers over the Tibetan Plateau and Sea of Japan and an anomalous low-pressure center over Mongolia located on its north side, which created a stable and long trough and formed a low-pressure center over WC. At 200 hPa, the subtropical westerly jet was much stronger than average and southward, and the South Asian High (SAH) was strong and extended eastward to 150°E. At 500 hPa, the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) was westward and exceptionally strong, which helped abundant water vapor reach the southeastern part of WC and provided favorable dynamic and thermodynamic conditions for precipitation in this region. In addition, the eastward extension of the SAH promotes the westward extension of WPSH, which collectively enhanced the precipitation in WC. At 850 hPa, the low-level jet corresponding to the west-extending subtropical high from the Sea of Japan to WC further enhanced and guided the water vapor transport to WC. In addition, the Mei-Yu front over the Yangtze River Basin in June and July strengthened the northwestward spread of diabatic heating, transient energy, and wave activity fluxes, which likely influenced the large-scale circulation factors and reinforced the precipitation in WC in August 2020.
Paleoclimate Variations Spanning the Past 29–4 Ma Inferred From Lipid Biomarkers and Carbon Isotopes in the Linxia Basin, Northeast Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Gen , Wei Zhifu , Zhang Ting , He Wei , Ma Xueyun , Yu Xiaoli , Wang Yongli
Published: September 2022

Thick and continuous deposits in the Linxia Basin, located in the landing area of westerlies and monsoons, offer a good opportunity for understanding the climatic evolution and tectonic activities. However, detailed paleoclimate reconstruction based on lipid biomarkers was rare, which limited our further knowledge, even though there were some relevant reports regarding pollen assemblages, microbial communities. In the present study, we conducted systematic analyses on the lipid biomarkers and carbon isotope values of the sediments, in an effort to reconstruct the evolution history of paleoclimate and figure out the potential driving mechanism. Our results showed that the organic matter was from mixed sources including lower organisms and terrestrial higher plants. The organic matter sources varied in response to the change of paleoclimate conditions as revealed by the lipid-derived proxies and organic carbon isotopes. Significant climatic events like late Oligocene Warming, Mid-Miocene Climatic Optimum and aridification at ∼8.5 Ma were observed throughout the sequence. Our results further indicated that the paleoclimate conditions in the study area primarily followed the pace of long-term global cooling, and the aridification at ∼8.5 Ma was associated with the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau.
Calibration of effective interface friction angle in granular flow impact experiment
Authors: Zhao Binbin , Zhang Yingtian , Liu Yi , Kong Xiaoang , Liu Chang , Xu Xiyu , Deng Yuanjing
Published: September 2022

By using the normal and tangential forces measured in experiments of granular flow impact against a retaining wall, the effective interface friction angle of the wall was calculated in the dynamic phase and the static phase respectively, designated as δec and δes, and both of them are smaller than the interface friction angle measured by laboratory test (δ2). It is found δec shows an increasing trend against inclination angle (β), which is opposite to that of δes; and δec has an underestimation of effective interface friction angle. By comparing the calculated normal forces of static phase and of dynamic phase with the measured values, it is found the lower bound relation between δes/δ2 and β obtained from regression analysis could well calibrate the effective interface friction angle for both the wall and flume base. It is also noted that the increasing trend of δec against β may be explained by the higher proportion of gravity-friction force at lower inclination angle, i.e., the higher proportion of drag force at higher inclination angle.
Response of North Pacific storm tracks to multiscale SST anomalies in a stable state of the Kuroshio extension system during the cold season
Authors: Chen Chaohui , Zhang Jianqi , Chen Xiangguo
Published: September 2022

In the present study, the response of North Pacific storm tracks to spatial multiscale (large-scale and mesoscale) sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTAs) in stable state of Kuroshio Extension (KE-related SSTAs) system are investigated. The results show that storm tracks are significantly strengthened with local enhanced rainfall in the central North Pacific and near the west coast of the North American continent in response to KE-related large-scale SSTAs, while they shift to the north and are significantly strengthened in the central-eastern North Pacific and Gulf of Alaska with remote impact on precipitation along west coast of North America continent in response to KE-related mesoscale SSTAs. The anomalous storm tracks influenced by KE-related SSTAs at different spatial scales are closely related to the locations of low-level baroclinicity. The response of horizontal advection of temperature to different scales of KE-related SSTAs in the lower atmosphere plays an important role in resulting baroclinicity anomalies.
Switchable magnetic, dielectric, conductivity, and phase transition properties of charge-transfer crystals
Authors: Yu S. S. , Zhao H. R. , Xu W. , Zhang H. , Duan H. B.
Published: September 2022

The properties can be switched between different states and can be used in sensors, displays, and memory devices. In this study, two multi-functional switchable materials [C5-Pmim][Ni(mnt)2] (1) and [C6-Hmim][Ni(mnt)2] (2) (where mnt2-= maleonitriledithiolate, C5-Pmim = 1-pentyl-3-methylimidazolium, and C6-Hmim = 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium) have been designed and synthesized, which has segregated cation and anion stacks in the crystal structure. 1 shows two-step switchable dielectric transition with a thermal hysteresis loop accompanying structure phase transition. Dielectric transition of 1 can be attributed to the reorientation of the polar cations and crystal to mesophase transition. Switchable conductivity properties of 1 and 2 were realized by the crystal to mesophase structure transition. The conductivity of the mesophase for 1 and 2 is higher than the corresponding crystal phase. Furthermore, magnetic phase transition with the non-common hysteresis loop for 2 is observed being triggered by the structure and dielectric transition. To the best of our knowledge, this study might be the rare multi-functional switchable examples with dielectric, conductivity, and magnetic transition.
Necroptosis of nucleus pulposus cells involved in intervertebral disc degeneration through MyD88 signaling
Authors: Fan Hong , Chen Zhe , Tang Hai-Bin , Shan Le-Qun , Chen Zi-Yi , Liu Shi-Chang , Zhang Yong-Yuan , Guo Xin-Yu , Yang Hao , Hao Ding-Jun
Published: September 2022

Background context

Low back pain, affecting nearly 40% of adults, mainly results from intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), while the pathogenesis of IVDD is still not fully elucidated. Recently, some researches have revealed that necroptosis, a programmed necrosis, participated in the progression of IVDD, nevertheless, the underlying mechanism remains unclear.

Purpose

To study the mechanism of necroptosis of Nucleus Pulposus (NP) cells in IVDD, focusing on the role of MyD88 signaling.

Study design

The expression and co-localization of necroptotic indicators and MyD88 were examined in vivo, and MyD88 inhibitor was applied to determine the role of MyD88 signaling in necroptosis of NP cells in vitro.

Methods

Human disc specimens were collected from patients receiving diskectomy for lumbar disc herniation (LDH) or traumatic lumbar fractures after MRI scanning. According to the Pfirrmann grades, they were divided into normal (Grades 1, 2) and degenerated groups (4, 5). Tissue slides were prepared for immunofluorescence to assess the co-localization of necroptotic indicators (RIP3, MLKL, p-MLKL) and MyD88 histologically. The combination of TNFα, LPS and Z-VAD-FMK was applied to induce necroptosis of NP cells. Level of ATP, reactive oxygen species (ROS), live-cell staining and electron microscope study were employed to study the role of MyD88 signaling in necroptosis of NP cells.

Results

In vivo, the increased expression and co-localization of necroptotic indicators (RIP3, MLKL, p-MLKL) and MyD88 were found in NP cells of degenerated disc, while very l low fluorescence intensity in tissue of traumatic lumbar fractures. In vitro, the MyD88 inhibitor effectively rescued the necroptosis of NP cells, accompanied by increased viability, ATP level, and decreased ROS level. The effect of MyD88 inhibition on necroptosis of NP cells was further confirmed by ultrastructure of mitochondria shown by Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM).

Conclusion

Our results indicated that the involvement of MyD88 signaling in the necroptosis of NP cells in IVDD, which will replenish the pathogenesis of IVDD and provide a novel potential therapeutic target for IVDD.
Numerical investigations on oscillating aspirations controlling separation flows in linear highly loaded compressor cascades
Authors: Liu Bao , Cai Le , Xu Hao , Fu Haiyan , Wang Songtao
Published: September 2022

The effect of boundary layer oscillating suction (BLOS) on the vortex structure of high-load linear compressor cascades is studied by a high-fidelity numerical calculation. The oscillation parameters (amplitude and frequency) and suction control parameters (suction position and mass flow) are continuously adjusted. It was found that higher aerodynamic efficiency could be obtained with suitable oscillation parameters and suction control parameters. This is achieved because BLOS not only absorbs the low-energy fluid in the boundary layer but also optimizes the vortex structure in the compressor passage.
Improvements in water clarity and submersed aquatic vegetation cover after exclusion of invasive common carp from a large freshwater coastal wetland, Delta Marsh, Manitoba
Authors: Kowal Paige D. , Badiou Pascal , Emery Robert B. , Goldsborough L. Gordon , Wrubleski Dale A. , Armstrong Llwellyn M. , Page Bryan
Published: September 2022

Once introduced to shallow aquatic ecosystems common carp (Cyprinus carpio) often degrade habitat, negatively impacting the native organisms that rely on these systems. Detrimental effects often observed following the introduction of carp include a reduction in water clarity as bottom sediments become disturbed and resuspended and phytoplankton blooms become more severe and frequent. This results in a reduction of submersed aquatic vegetation (SAV), the effects of which are felt across multiple trophic levels. We sought to limit large carp (>70 mm maximum body width) access to a culturally and biologically significant 18,500 ha freshwater coastal wetland located in Manitoba, Canada to restore pre-carp conditions which were characterized by clear water and abundant SAV. In winter 2012–2013, exclusion structures were built to limit access by large carp to Delta Marsh during the spring and summer. A monitoring program (2009–2018) compared marsh conditions before and after carp exclusion. Water clarity improved following carp exclusion, largely driven by a reduction of inorganic suspended solids (ISS) rather than phytoplankton biomass, indicating that maintaining clear water conditions might be supplemented by reductions in nutrient export from agricultural areas adjacent to the marsh. The decrease in ISS and phytoplankton varied spatially, with the greatest change observed in the westernmost area of the marsh which is more sheltered compared to the large open bays characterizing eastern areas of the marsh. SAV doubled in percent cover through the 6 years of monitoring post-carp exclusion and SAV cover and species richness in the marsh was comparable to what was present in the early 1970s when there was also partial carp exclusion. Similar to water clarity, the increase in SAV cover was most significant in sheltered areas of the marsh. Our results suggest that excluding large carp can improve water clarity, SAV cover, and SAV species richness in large freshwater wetlands, benefiting waterfowl and other species.
Lightweight noncommutative key exchange protocol for IoT environments
Authors: Kanwal Shamsa , Inam Saba , Ali Rashid , Cheikhrouhou Omar , Koubaa Anis
Published: September 2022

Network communications are expanding rapidly in many fields, including telecommunications, the Internet of Things, space, consumer electronics, and the military, with different privacy and security issues at stake in each of these areas. The Internet of Things (IoT) has drawn increased attention from academic and industrial researchers over the last few decades. In this environment, keys are routinely exchanged through a public protocol to support the highly secure IoT domain and thwart security threats from unauthorized parties. The environment for IoT devices is subject to numerous limitations, including those related to processing, memory, and energy. These devices need to pass through a gateway or sink to connect to the network. Additionally, the environment must enable secure communication between gateways and IoT devices, even when the devices are disconnected from the rest of the network. In this paper, a lightweight key exchange protocol for IoT environments is presented, allowing the gateway and the IoT device to communicate over an open channel. Our proposed protocol improves security by utilizing noncommutative structures and polynomials over noncommutative rings. The underlying idea is to use the generalized decomposition problem associated with noncommutative rings. Furthermore, how the suggested protocol can achieve key certification and perfect onward secrecy is addressed. Results show this protocol is a strong candidate for key sharing and secure communication between IoT devices. We put our methodology into practice and the results of our experiments demonstrate enhancement of security levels. Finally, the performance analysis of the suggested protocol is compared with some other protocols, in terms of security, communication, and computing overhead.
The association between vitamin D and uterine fibroids: A mendelian randomization study
Authors: Guo Weijie , Dai Mengyuan , Zhong Zhuoling , Zhu San , Gong Guidong , Chen Mei , Guo Junling , Zhang Yaoyao
Published: September 2022

Uterine fibroids (UFs), the most common benign gynecological tumor, can bring severe negative impacts on a woman’s life quality. Vitamin D, is thought to play an important role in regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. In recent years, several studies suggested that higher level of vitamin D has a negative effect on the occurrence of UFs, but the results of studies on the relationship between them are conflicting and further evidence needs to be studied. Here in, we used a two-sample Mendelian Randomization (2SMR) study to explore the causal relationship between genetically predicted vitamin D levels and the risk of UFs. The exposure data comes from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary dataset consisting of 441,291 individuals, which includes datasets from United Kingdom Biobank, FinnGen Biobank and the corresponding consortia. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with vitamin D at a significant level of p < 5 × 10−8 and low linkage disequilibrium (LD) level (r2 < 0.01) were selected. The outcome data comes from a GWAS dataset of IEU analysis of United Kingdom Biobank phenotypes consisting of 7,122 UFs cases and 455,811 controls. Our inverse-variance weight (IVW) analysis results support the causal association of genetically predicted vitamin D with the risk of UFs (OR = 0.995,95% CI = 0.990-0.999, p = 0.024). In addition, heterogeneity and pleiotropy were not observed in statistical models. In summary, our results indicate that elevated serum vitamin D levels are in strong relationship with reduction of the risk of UFs, which indicates that the clinical treatment of UFs may have a new and excellent option.
A novel LUAD prognosis prediction model based on immune checkpoint-related lncRNAs
Authors: Liu Yang , Yu Mingyang , Cheng Xuechao , Zhang Xingshu , Luo Qian , Liao Sijin , Chen Zhongzheng , Zheng Jianhao , Long Kaijun , Wu Xingwei , Qu Wendong , Gong Ming , Song Yongxiang
Published: September 2022

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a malignant disease with an extremely poor prognosis, and there is currently a lack of clinical methods for early diagnosis and precise treatment and management. With the deepening of tumor research, more and more attention has been paid to the role of immune checkpoints (ICP) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulation in tumor development. Therefore, this study downloaded LUAD patient data from the TCGA database, and finally screened 14 key ICP-related lncRNAs based on ICP-related genes using univariate/multivariate COX regression analysis and LASSO regression analysis to construct a risk prediction model and corresponding nomogram. After multi-dimensional testing of the model, the model showed good prognostic prediction ability. In addition, to further elucidate how ICP plays a role in LUAD, we jointly analyzed the immune microenvironmental changes in LAUD patients and performed a functional enrichment analysis. Furthermore, to enhance the clinical significance of this study, we performed a sensitivity analysis of common antitumor drugs. All the above works aim to point to new directions for the treatment of LUAD.
Non-coding ribonucleic acid-mediated CAMSAP1 upregulation leads to poor prognosis with suppressed immune infiltration in liver hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Wenwen , Zhang Jingjing , Wang Yuqing , Xu Yasi , Zhang Shirong
Published: September 2022

Liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) is well-known for its unfavorable prognosis due to the lack of reliable diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Calmodulin-regulated spectrin-associated protein 1 (CAMSAP1) is a non-centrosomal microtubule minus-end binding protein that regulates microtubule dynamics. This study aims to investigate the specific role and mechanisms of CAMSAP1 in LIHC. We performed systematical analyses of CAMSAP1 and demonstrated that differential expression of CAMSAP1 is associated with genetic alteration and DNA methylation, and serves as a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in some cancers, especially LIHC. Further evidence suggested that CAMSAP1 overexpression leads to adverse clinical outcomes in advanced LIHC. Moreover, the AC145207.5/LINC01748-miR-101–3p axis is specifically responsible for CAMSAP1 overexpression in LIHC. In addition to the previously reported functions in the cell cycle and regulation of actin cytoskeleton, CAMSAP1-related genes are enriched in cancer- and immune-associated pathways. As expected, CAMSAP1-associated LIHC is infiltrated in the suppressed immune microenvironment. Specifically, except for immune cell infiltration, it is significantly positively correlated with immune checkpoint genes, especially CD274 (PD-L1), and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Prediction of immune checkpoint blockade therapy suggests that these patients may benefit from therapy. Our study is the first to demonstrate that besides genetic alteration and DNA methylation, AC145207.5/LINC01748-miR-101-3p-mediated CAMSAP1 upregulation in advanced LIHC leads to poor prognosis with suppressed immune infiltration, representing a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker as well as a promising immunotherapy target for LIHC.
Effects of acupuncture treatment on microRNAs expression in ovarian tissues from Tripterygium glycoside-induced diminished ovarian reserve rats
Authors: Lu Ge , Zhu Yao-yao , Li Hong-xiao , Yin Yao-li , Shen Jie , Shen Mei-hong
Published: September 2022

Acupuncture is widely used to improve ovarian function. Previously, we demonstrated that acupuncture can improve oxidative stress in rats with tripterygium glycoside tablet suspension (TG)-induced diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). Herein, we aimed to explore the antioxidation mechanism of acupuncture for ameliorating the ovarian reserve in DOR rats. We performed microRNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis to screen differentially expressed miRNAs (DE miRNAs) in ovarian tissues. In total, 1,172 miRNAs were identified by miRNA sequencing, of which 28 DE miRNAs were detected (including 14 upregulated and 14 downregulated) in ovarian tissues from the acupuncture group when compared with the DOR model rats. Based on functional enrichment analysis, the target genes of DE miRNAs were significantly enriched in GO-biological process (BP) terms associated with biological processes, positive regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II, signal transduction, regulation of transcription, DNA-templated processes, and oxidation–reduction processes. In the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis, the main pathways were the MAPK signaling pathway, hepatitis B, proteoglycans in cancer, human cytomegalovirus infection, and the Ras signaling pathway. Finally, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR results confirmed that rno-miR-92b-3p, mdo-miR-26b-5p_R+1_1ss10TC, and bta-miR-7857-3p_R-1 were downregulated in the acupuncture group. The results revealed the impact of acupuncture on miRNA profiling of ovarian tissues from DOR rats, suggesting that rno-miR-92b-3p, mdo-miR-26b-5p_R+1_1ss10TC, and bta-miR-7857-3p_R-1 might provide relevant cues to relieve DOR-mediated oxidative stress.
Collaboration between traditional and central authorities in chieftaincy succession conflicts management in Ghana: Evidence from Bole traditional area
Authors: Tseer Tobias , Sulemana Mohammed
Published: September 2022

Chieftaincy succession conflicts are a near-ubiquitous phenomenon in Ghanaian Chiefdoms. While many studies have investigated the causes and implications of such conflicts, the extent to which traditional and central authorities collaborate in the management of chieftaincy succession conflicts in Ghana is largely understudied. This is the gap in the literature that this study attempted to fill. The study was situated within the frameworks of the Collaborative Leadership Theory. The Exploratory Sequential variant of the mixed method approach was adopted for the study where 16 key informants were recruited using expert purposive sampling technique and 99 others recruited for a survey using stratified and simple random sampling techniques. The unit of analysis was the Bole chieftaincy succession conflict management team. Data were solicited around the level of representation of traditional and central authorities on the team, the roles assigned to each member, the levels of commitment of each member, and the significance of the roles played by each member at the various stages of conflict management. The analysis of the data revealed that there were some levels of collaboration at the preparatory stage of the mediation process but this was less so at the main stages of the mediation process. The study therefore recommended that the state, through the National Security Council, may liaise with the National House of Chiefs to fashion out better ways of collaborating in conflict management, from the initial stages to the final stages, so as to completely resolve chieftaincy conflicts that are often disruptive and destructive.
Could AMPs and B-cells be the missing link in understanding periodontitis?
Authors: Lobognon Vanessa Dominique , Alard Jean-Eric
Published: September 2022

Periodontal diseases are common inflammatory conditions characterized by bone loss in response to simultaneous bacterial aggression and host defenses. The etiology of such diseases is still not completely understood, however. It has been shown that specific pathogens involved in the build-up of dysbiotic biofilms participate actively in the establishment of periodontitis. This multifactorial pathology also depends on environmental factors and host characteristics, especially defenses. The immune response to the pathogens seems to be critical in preventing the disease from starting but also contributes to tissue damage. It is known that small molecules known as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are key actors in the innate immune response. They not only target microbes, but also act as immuno-modulators. They can help to recruit or activate cells such as neutrophils, monocytes, dendritic cells, or lymphocytes. AMPs have already been described in the periodontium, and their expression seems to be connected to disease activity. Alpha and beta defensins and LL37 are the AMPs most frequently linked to periodontitis. Additionally, leukocyte infiltrates, especially B-cells, have also been linked to the severity of periodontitis. Indeed, the particular subpopulations of B-cells in these infiltrates have been linked to inflammation and bone resorption. A link between B-cells and AMP could be relevant to understanding B-cells’ action. Some AMP receptors, such as chemokines receptors, toll-like receptors, or purinergic receptors, have been shown to be expressed by B-cells. Consequently, the action of AMPs on B—cell subpopulations could participate to B-cell recruitment, their differentiation, and their implication in both periodontal defense and destruction.
Extracellular vesicles derived from Trichinella Spiralis larvae promote the polarization of macrophages to M2b type and inhibit the activation of fibroblasts
Authors: Wu Ji , Liao Yao , Li Dinghao , Zhu Zifeng , Zhang Lichao , Wu Zhongdao , He Ping , Wang Lifu
Published: September 2022

Trichinella spiralis (T. spiralis) is a globally distributed food-borne parasite that can coexist with the host for a long time after infection. Trichinella-derived secretions can regulate the immune response and fibroblasts of the host, but the specific mechanisms involved are still unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of T. spiralis larvae-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their key miRNAs in the process of T. spiralis–host interaction. In this study, we found that the EVs of T. spiralis larvae, as well as miR-1-3p and let-7-5p, expressed in T. spiralis larvae-derived EVs, can promote the polarization of bone marrow macrophages to M2b type while inhibiting the activation of fibroblasts. These findings will contribute to further understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying T. spiralis–host interactions.
Single-cell RNA sequencing of CSF reveals neuroprotective RAC1+ NK cells in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Guan Qing , Liu Wei , Mu Ketao , Hu Qi , Xie Jiazhao , Cheng Liming , Wang Xiong
Published: September 2022

Brain infiltration of the natural killer (NK) cells has been observed in several neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s disease (PD). In a mouse model of α-synucleinopathy, it has been shown that NK cells help in clearing α-synuclein (α-syn) aggregates. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the brain infiltration of NK cells in PD. Immunofluorescence assay was performed using the anti-NKp46 antibody to detect NK cells in the brain of PD model mice. Next, we analyzed the publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data (GSE141578) of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from patients with PD to characterize the CSF immune landscape in PD. Results showed that NK cells infiltrate the substantia nigra (SN) of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD model mice and colocalize with dopaminergic neurons and α-syn. Moreover, the ratio of NK cells was found to be increased in the CSF of PD patients. Analysis of the scRNA-seq data revealed that Rac family small GTPase 1 (RAC1) was the most significantly upregulated gene in NK cells from PD patients. Furthermore, genes involved in regulating SN development were enriched in RAC1+ NK cells and these cells showed increased brain infiltration in MPTP-induced PD mice. In conclusion, NK cells actively home to the SN of PD model mice and RAC1 might be involved in regulating this process. Moreover, RAC1+ NK cells play a neuroprotective role in PD.
Nasal colonization of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in HIV-infected patients at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Ghana
Authors: Boison Daniel , Akwetey Samuel Addo , Osei Silas Acheampong , Kelechi Samuel , Barnie Prince Amoah
Published: September 2022

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) continues to be associated with outbreaks in communities (CA-MRSA) and hospitals (HA-MRSA). MRSA isolates are known to be resistant to all beta-lactam antibiotics including methicillin. Moreover, HIV-infected individuals are highly at risk of CA-MRSA due to their weaker immune system. It is therefore important to keep surveillance of the prevalence. Our study aims at determining the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA among HIV-infected participants, the bacteria’s associations, and their antibiotic susceptibility patterns. A cross-sectional study was conducted and nasal swabs from 657 participants attending the HIV clinic at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital were taken following guidelines. Confirmed S. aureus isolates were taken through antibiotic susceptibility tests per the Kirby–Bauer method, and isolates that were resistant to cefoxitin were considered to be MRSA. The carriage prevalence of S. aureus and MRSA was 44.7% and 8.2%, respectively, among the HIV-infected individuals. There was a significant association between hospitalization and MRSA colonization (p = 0.002), but not S. aureus colonization (p = 0.266). Significant association was also observed between age (p = 0.001), sex (p = 0.0001), and S. aureus colonization. Similarly, differences in age groups (p = 0.001), sex (p = 0.02), and MRSA colonization were statistically significant (p = 0.001). High percentage resistance was exhibited by the isolates to most of the antibiotics. However, this study did not record vancomycin resistance among the MRSA strains. The study showed high colonization of S. aureus and MRSA in HIV-infected patients, which was mostly associated with the age and sex of the individuals.
Informing Management of Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Using Telemetry Data
Authors: Whitlock Rebecca , Schallert Robert J. , Stokesbury Michael J. W. , Castleton Michael , Block Barbara A.
Published: September 2022

Sustainable management of exploited marine fish and wildlife populations requires knowledge about their productivity. Survival from natural causes of mortality is a key component of population productivity, but is notoriously difficult to estimate. We evaluate the potential for acoustic telemetry as a long-term monitoring tool to estimate rates of natural mortality. We present a Bayesian multistate mark-recapture model for telemetry data collected over a decade from 188 Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus)and apply it to estimate the rate of natural mortality using only acoustic tag detections for all animals, or using acoustic tag detections for 96 single-tagged tuna plus acoustic tag detections combined with estimated positions from pop-up satellite archival tags for 92 double-tagged animals. We support the model for bluefin tuna with a simulation study to quantify bias in estimates of population dynamics parameters and investigate the effect of auxiliary information from satellite tagging on mortality rate estimates for different acoustic tag detection probability scenarios.

We obtained posterior estimates of the instantaneous annual natural mortality (survival) rate across a decade of tagging for Atlantic bluefin tuna of 0.17 yr-1(0.84 yr-1) both using only acoustic tagging data, and using a combination of acoustic and satellite tagging data. Use of a prior implying a higher rate of fishing mortality yielded an instantaneous annual natural mortality (survival) estimate of 0.10 yr-1(0.90 yr-1), with combined acoustic and satellite tag data. Results from the simulation study indicate that the use of satellite tags can improve the precision and accuracy of estimates of detection probabilities, area-specific movement probabilities and mortality rates, where the extent of the improvement depends on true underlying acoustic tag detection probabilities. Our work demonstrates that long-term acoustic tagging data sets have strong potential for monitoring of highly migratory marine fish and wildlife populations, providing information on a number of key parameters, including survival and movement rates. However, improved information on tag reporting rates or fishing mortality is needed to better separate natural and fisheries mortality for Atlantic bluefin tuna.
Export of particulate organic carbon (POC) in the eddy region of the tropical northwest Pacific
Authors: Seo Junhyeong , Kim Guebuem , Park Jae-Hyoung , Seo Hojong , Na Taehee , Kang Sok Kuh , Hwang Jeomshik
Published: September 2022

We examined particulate organic carbon (POC) export using 238U–234Th disequilibrium in the tropical northwest Pacific Ocean, where numerous eddies are present. We obtained data from an anticyclonic eddy in 2019 and from both anticyclonic and cyclonic eddies in 2020. In 2019, excess 234Th and higher POC concentrations were observed in the upper 100 m layer inside the anticyclonic eddy compared with the outer area of the eddy (the reference site). We speculate that the peculiar feature of excess 234Th in the surface layer was caused by horizontal transport of POC into the eddy and consequent POC degradation and release of particulate 234Th to a dissolved form. However, in 2020, lower POC concentrations with 234Th deficiency were observed in both cyclonic and anticyclonic eddies relative to the reference site. In both years, POC export was lower in the cores of the anticyclonic and cyclonic eddies relative to the reference site. We propose that severe nutrient depletion in the upper 150 m layer hindered nutrient supply by vertical water movement in the eddies. Despite the low POC export at 100 m depth, POC export at 500 m depth was comparable to values observed at 500 m depth at Station Papa in the more productive northeastern Pacific region. Our results imply that POC export into the deep ocean interior in this region may not be as low as expected from the low primary productivity in the euphotic zone.
Primary syphilis without chancre – A case report of rare syphilitic balanitis of Follmann
Authors: Ren Xu-qi , Nie Qun-ling , Liu An-qi
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Syphilitic balanitis of Follmann (SBF) is a rare condition of primary syphilis which is characterized by any kind of balanitis with or without chancre on the penis combined with the presence of swollen inguinal lymph nodes confirmed by the finding of Treponema pallidum in the lesions or by the positive serological syphilitic testing. Timely identification of the SBF is very important in properly treating the disease stopping the spread of syphilis.

Case presentation

A 42year-old heterosexual male patient came to our clinic and complained of a painless, hard erythema nodule with a whitish scale in his coronal sulcus of the penis for about a week. The dermatologic examination revealed an infiltrative, hard erythematous lesion surrounding the coronal sulcus of the patient’s penis, with mild erosion and a small amount of exudation. There was a whitish pseudomembrane-like covering on the surface of the erythematous lesion in the coronal sulcus, which is mimicked as candidal balanitis. The result of the fungus microscopic examination was negative, while the laboratory findings showed positive results in serologic syphilitic testing. The patient was diagnosed with primary syphilis and intramuscularly treated with a dose of benzylpenicillin of 2.4 million units. The patient’s skin lesions disappeared completely 60 days after penicillin treatment.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first SBF case reported in China. Syphilitic balanitis of Follmann may have variable clinical appearances. We emphasize that when balanitis with risky sexual activities or with sexually transmitted diseases, the diagnosis of SBF should be kept in mind.