bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermo-microstratigraphy of shells reveals invisible fire use and possible cooking in the archaeological record
Authors: Simões Carlos D. , Aldeias Vera
Published: September 2022

The archaeological visibility of hearths related to shellfish cooking methods is limited, particularly in pre-ceramic shell midden contexts. Important evidence for use of fire is the thermal alteration of components, namely the identification of burnt shells. Mollusk shells that mineralize as aragonite are particularly indicative of burning due to the conversion of aragonite to calcite through recrystallization at known temperature thresholds. However, roasting temperatures needed to open bivalves, do not necessarily cause thermal alterations in the cooked shell. This complicates the significance of shell mineralogy by itself to recognize cooking, and discerning pre-depositional from in situ heating. To distinguish between cooking and burning, we combine micromorphological analyses with microscopic Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy to investigate mineralogical thermo-alterations alongside microstratigraphic formation studies. Experimentally heated specimens of Cerastoderma edule and Scrobicularia plana are used to identify the temperature thresholds of biogenic calcium carbonate phase alteration at the micro-scale. These results are then used to interpret mineral alterations in deposits from two Mesolithic shell midden contexts from Portugal. Micro-stratigraphically controlled mineralogy proved to be particularly useful to distinguish between pre-depositional heating from in situ heating, configuring a novel methodology for recognition of traces of cooking shellfish versus traces of fire used for other purposes. Mapping the mineral phase conversion at a micro stratigraphic scale also allows us to identify instances of in situ fire events that were invisible macroscopically. This combined microstratigraphic and mineralogical methodology considerably increases our capacity of deciphering intricate shell midden stratigraphy and occupational events.
Seismicity of the repeating earthquake clusters in the northern Xiaojiang fault zone and its implications
Authors: Zhou Yun , Xu Lisheng , Wu Jianping , Li Chunlai , Fang Lihua , Pan Zhengyang
Published: September 2022

The Xiaojiang fault zone (XJF), located at the southeastern margin of the Tibetan plateau, has been frequently struck by destructive earthquakes throughout history. Some studies showed that repeating earthquakes may be used to estimate fault slip rates and even to monitor the pre-slip prior to large asperity. This study focuses on the repeating earthquakes recorded by a high-density seismic array in the northern section of the XJF, a segment ruptured by the 1733 Dongchuan M7.8 earthquake. Using the waveform cross-correlation and relocation techniques, we processed the continuous seismic recordings from seismic stations of the array and confirmed 27 clusters of repeating earthquakes. The repeaters are located in three relatively independent sub-areas, areas A, B, and C. Area A is close to the source areas of the 2014 Ludian Ms6.5 and the 2020 Qiaojia Ms5.0 earthquakes; by analyzing the recurrence intervals of repeating clusters, we found that the Ludian earthquake had an insignificant triggering effect on surrounding events, while the triggering effect from the Qiaojia earthquake was obvious. The clusters in area B were located very close to the northernmost tip of the XJF, which should be associated with an asperity preparing for a large earthquake on the northern XJF. Together with a repeating cluster identified in a previous study and the seismicity pattern revealed by our seismic array, we determined the geometry of the asperity and slip rate, which further helps to estimate a potential Mw7.1 earthquake for the asperity, where no M>7 earthquakes have occurred since the 1733 Dongchuan M7.8 earthquake. The clusters in area C are more like human-induced earthquakes because they are concentrated during the daytime when local people are at work, and, thus, they cannot be used for the study of tectonic deformation. This study clearly indicates that the repeating earthquakes can be triggered by a moderate earthquake nearby and also that repeating earthquakes can be used to estimate fault slip rates and outline locked asperities.
A 35-year daily global solar radiation dataset reconstruction at the Great Wall Station, Antarctica: First results and comparison with ERA5, CRA40 reanalysis, and ICDR (AVHRR) satellite products
Authors: Zeng Zhaoliang , Wang Xin , Wang Zemin , Zhang Wenqian , Zhang Dongqi , Zhu Kongju , Mai Xiaoping , Cheng Wei , Ding Minghu
Published: September 2022

Solar radiation drives many geophysical and biological processes in Antarctica, such as sea ice melting, ice sheet mass balance, and photosynthetic processes of phytoplankton in the polar marine environment. Although reanalysis and satellite products can provide important insight into the global scale of solar radiation in a seamless way, the ground-based radiation in the polar region remains poorly understood due to the harsh Antarctic environment. The present study attempted to evaluate the estimation performance of empirical models and machine learning models, and use the optimal model to establish a 35-year daily global solar radiation (DGSR) dataset at the Great Wall Station, Antarctica using meteorological observation data during 1986–2020. In addition, it then compared against the DGSR derived from ERA5, CRA40 reanalysis, and ICDR (AVHRR) satellite products. For the DGSR historical estimation performance, the machine learning method outperforms the empirical formula method overall. Among them, the Mutli2 model (hindcast test R2, RMSE, and MAE are 0.911, 1.917 MJ/m2, and 1.237 MJ/m2, respectively) for the empirical formula model and XGBoost model (hindcast test R2, RMSE, and MAE are 0.938, 1.617 MJ/m2, and 1.030 MJ/m2, respectively) for the machine learning model were found with the highest accuracy. For the austral summer half-year, the estimated DGSR agrees very well with the observed DGSR, with a mean bias of only −0.47 MJ/m2. However, other monthly DGSR products differ significantly from observations, with mean bias of 1.05 MJ/m2, 3.27 MJ/m2, and 6.90 MJ/m2 for ICDR (AVHRR) satellite, ERA5, and CRA40 reanalysis products, respectively. In addition, the DGSR of the Great Wall Station, Antarctica followed a statistically significant increasing trend at a rate of 0.14 MJ/m2/decade over the past 35 years. To our best knowledge, this study presents the first reconstruction of the Antarctica Great Wall Station DGSR spanning 1986–2020, which will contribute to the research of surface radiation balance in Antarctic Peninsula.
Two kinematic transformations of the Pamir salient since the Mid-Cenozoic: Constraints from multi-timescale deformation analysis
Authors: Ge Jin , Shi Xuhua , Chen Hanlin , Lin Xiubin , Ge Weipeng , Wei Xiaochun , Li Feng , Chen Jie , Li Haibing , Cheng Xiaogan , Zhang Fengqi
Published: September 2022

The Pamir salient is a key part of the Himalayan–Tibetan Plateau orogenic system and has undergone intense tectonic deformation during the India–Asian collision. Delineating the Cenozoic kinematics and geodynamics of the Pamir salient requires a comprehensive understanding of the active arcuate structures along its frontal margin, from the perspective of the multi-spatiotemporal evolution of deformation patterns. Here, we reviewed the deformation rates of the major structures at different timescales, reanalyzed the published Global Positioning System velocities, and examined the present-day seismicity to constrain the kinematics of the Pamir salient since the Late Cenozoic. Integrated with the crustal evolution history during the Middle–Late Cenozoic and the deep structure, we proposed a new model to explain the multi-stage kinematics and associated geodynamics of the Pamir salient. During ∼37–24 Ma, the initial Pamir salient moved northward via radial thrusting that rotated the basins on both sides, which was driven by the continuous compression of the Indian slab after the breakoff of its oceanic part. During ∼23–12 Ma, the gravitational collapse of the Central and South Pamir crusts, which was induced by the breakoff of the continental part of the Indian slab, triggered the extension within the Pamir and foreland-ward movement of the upper crust. The upper crustal materials moved in varying directions due to the differential strength of the foreland areas, transforming the crustal kinematics from radial thrusting into a combination of radial thrusting and transfer faulting. Since the coupling of the Indian and Pamir slabs at ∼12–11 Ma, the deformation propagation towards the forelands accelerated, after which the kinematics of the Pamir salient exhibited asymmetric radial thrusting that has been sustained until the present. The asymmetric radial thrusting was likely driven by the compressive stress effect of the lithospheric basal shear generated by the underthrusting of the cratonic Indian lithosphere, which further led to the rollback of the Pamir slab and the consequent migratory extension in the South Pamir.
Source rock geochemical assessment and estimation of TOC using well logs and geochemical data of Talhar Shale, Southern Indus Basin, Pakistan
Authors: Khalil Khan Humayun , Ehsan Muhsan , Ali Abid , Amer Muhammad Attique , Aziz Haroon , Khan Abdullah , Bashir Yasir , Abu-Alam Tamer , Abioui Mohamed
Published: September 2022

Assessment of organic carbon content (TOC) by geophysical logs has been a challenging task in the formation evaluation of shale gas. This research is conducted to estimate the unconventional hydrocarbon (shale-gas) potential of Talhar Shale in the Southern Indus Basin (SIB), Pakistan. In this study, total organic carbon content (%) was estimated through well logs by different methods and then correlated with well cuttings/core data to determine the best method for estimation of TOC content especially when well cuttings/core data are not available. The Talhar Shale’s thermal maturity, as well as the organic content, were assessed from geochemical analyses. Talhar Shale of Dangi-01 well has good to very good source potential whereas Chak7A-01 well has fair-good. According to Ven Krevalen cross-plot, Talhar Shale of Dangi-01 well has type III kerogen; it can only produce gas while Chak7A-01 has type II/III kerogen which produces both oil and gas. The TOC was estimated using two methods i.e., Schmoker’s and Hester’s and Multivariate Fitting methods. The estimated TOC is then correlated with well cuttings data and concluded that the Multivariate Fitting method is selected as an optimized method for estimation of TOC because it shows strong correlation values of 0.93 and 0.91 in both wells respectively for Talhar Shale SIB, Pakistan.
Comprehensive economic analysis of PV farm -A case study of Alkarsaah PV farm in qatar
Authors: Alashqar Mohamed , Xue Ying , Yang Conghuan , Zhang Xiao-Ping
Published: September 2022

Countries around the world are rapidly deploying renewable energy generation to reduce carbon emissions. Countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are investing heavily in PV generation due to their rich solar resources. As PV technology becomes more mature, future PV developments will largely depend on the cost of the PV generation but there is currently very limited published work that shows a detailed design and in particular the economic analysis of large-scale PV farms. Therefore, this paper uses the Qatar’s first PV farm, the 800MWp Alkarsaah PV farm as a case study to explain the design considerations and especially the economic benefits of large-scale PV farms. Economic comparisons will be made with the most efficient CCGT (combined cycle gas turbine) plants in the network to highlight the economic benefits of PV farms. The results show that the Levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) for this PV farm is 14.03$/MWh, much lower than the LCOE of 39.18$/MWh and 24.6$/MWh from the most efficient CCGTs in the network, highlighting the significant economic benefits of developing PV farms in a low carbon power networks in the future.
An improved energy management for MVDC distribution system based on exponential droop control
Authors: Lu Wenbiao , Xiao Qian , Jia Hongjie , Mu Yunfei , Cui Mingjian , Jin Yu , Li Tianxiang , Zhang Yuwei , Yu Xiaodan
Published: September 2022

The energy management optimization and DC voltage stability are the main challenges when loads surging and renewable energy sources (RESs) fluctuations occur in the medium-voltage DC distribution system (MVDC-DS). To solve these issues, this paper proposes a dual-time scale energy management method based on improved droop control for the MVDC-DS. Firstly, a ±10 kV three-terminal hybrid modular multilevel converter (MMC)-based ring MVDC-DS with DC fault ride-through capability is constructed, which including electric vehicle charging stations, energy storage systems, multiple loads and RESs. Secondly, the droop control adopted by the hybrid MMC is improved by exp-function to achieve higher power quality. On this basis, a dual-time scale energy management method is proposed to minimize the electricity purchasing cost. The reference power of each controllable unit is optimized in the long time scale, and the parameters of improved droop control are optimized in the short time scale. Finally, a case study is conducted on the ±10 kV three-terminal hybrid MMC-based ring MVDC-DS, and the results indicate that the proposed method can improve the economy and power quality of system, and help to realize the normal system operation under different conditions.
Effects of vegetation patchiness on ecosystem carbon and nitrogen storage in the alpine grassland of the Qilian Mountains
Authors: Abalori Theophilus Atio , Cao Wenxia , Atogi-Akwoa Weobong Conrad , Sam Faisal Eudes , Li Wen , Osei Richard , Wang Shilin
Published: September 2022

Vegetation patchiness is common in degraded grasslands. Vegetation patchiness enhances the spatial variability of grassland soil organic carbon and total nitrogen. Stripped vegetation patches have a great impact on ecosystem carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) storage. Using field surveys, we examined the effects of patches on the ecosystem carbon and nitrogen storage of four typical alpine grass species patches (viz: Leymus secalinus, Koeleria pers, Stipa aliena, and Leontopodium nanum). The results indicated that ecosystem C, N, and respiration were significantly higher in intact vegetation patches than in stripped vegetation patches. Also, stripped vegetation patches recorded higher quantities of soil gravel content than the intact patches. In Leymus secalinus and Koeleria pers species patches, soil approximately contributed about 62% and vegetation about 38% to ecosystem carbon and nitrogen storage, whereas in Stipa aliena and Leontopodium nanum species patches, close to 80% of ecosystem carbon and nitrogen were found in the soil while close to 20% were stored in the vegetation. Soil total phosphorus (TP), total potassium (TK), available phosphorus (AP), soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC), and soil microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN) were higher in intact vegetation patches than in the stripped vegetation patches. Ecosystem carbon and nitrogen were observed to have a significant correlation with soil gravel content and vegetation productivity. Stripped vegetation patches resulted in decreased plant biomass input and an increased rate of soil erosion. We conclude that grassland patchiness resulted in the decline of ecosystem carbon and nitrogen storage due to a reduction in vegetation input and an increase in soil erosion. Grasslands are likely to have a higher possibility of serving as a C sink if the input of organic matter exceeds its output via sustainable management practices.
Design of Microbial Methane Oxidation Systems for Landfills
Authors: Gebert Julia , Huber-Humer Marion , Cabral Alexandre R.
Published: September 2022

Landfill methane currently represents the largest global source of greenhouse gas emissions from the solid waste sector. Emissions are expected to increase due to increasing waste generation, particularly in countries still landfilling biodegradable wastes. As a complementary measure to gas extraction with subsequent flaring or energy conversion, or for emissions reduction from old landfills or from landfills containing wastes with a low gas potential, microbial methane oxidation systems (MMOS) are considered a promising technology. Numerous studies relating to controlling factors and enhancement of microbial methane oxidation in biocovers, biowindows or biofilters, both in laboratory and in large scale field settings, have been published. The design of optimized MMOS requires thorough understanding of the involved processes, specifically the biological ones and of those related to the transport of gas and water in porous media, and of the impact of material properties and external environmental factors on these processes. Consequently, the selection of materials that are suitable from a biogeochemical and from a geotechnical point of view, meeting the required water and gas transport properties, are key aspects in the design process. This paper reviews the scientific background of the relevant concepts and processes dictating MMOS performance, and provides guidance on layout and design steps, including choice of materials and quality control. Further, a decision tree to support the choice of MMOS is proposed. This paper provides the scientific foundation for upcoming technical guidance documents.
Water-temperature controlled deformation patterns in Heifangtai loess terraces revealed by wavelet analysis of InSAR time series and hydrological parameters
Authors: Cao Zhongcheng , Wang Teng
Published: September 2022

Loess deposits are widely distributed in western and central China. Because loess is wet-collapsible, loess mass is prone to failure after water infiltration. Heifangtai, composed of two adjacent typical loess platforms located in the Loess Plateau beside the Yellow River, has experienced hundreds of landslides in the past few decades. Here, we derived surficial time-series deformation, velocity, and amplitude of seasonality from the Sentinel-1 SAR images acquired from October 2014 to March 2021 in the Heifangtai region and studied their relation with precipitation, temperature, and irrigation applying wavelet analysis. The decomposed velocities show that not only a large amount of along-slope deformation occurred surrounding the terrace but also a significant subsidence in the residential area in the middle of the platform was observed. The high-seasonality areas are distributed along the Yellow River and on the terrace consistent with other water sources, e.g., springs and irrigation, revealing a promotion of a periodic water-involved process on deformation in loess. Through the wavelet analysis, we found that the temperature is almost in phase with the uplift velocity when the temperature is below the freezing point. The precipitation precedes the surface displacement of ∼1 to 2 months for water penetration. The comparison between irrigation volumes and averaged displacements suggests that irrigation also plays a role in promoting subsidence from March to October but uplift in winter due to frost heave. We highlight that the retrogressions of the terraces in this region may be accelerated by both natural and anthropogenic factors. Careful monitoring and water management are highly recommended for the safety of local residences and infrastructures.
How does the digital economy promote green technology innovation by manufacturing enterprises? Evidence from China
Authors: Ning Jing , Yin Qiaorong , Yan An
Published: September 2022

With the rapid development of the digital economy and the increasingly severe environmental issues, the role of the digital economy in green innovation has been attracting more attention; however, only a limited amount of research has been done in this area. Therefore, based on matching data at the city and manufacturing enterprise level in China during 2011–2018, this paper attempted to integrate the digital economy (more specifically, the Internet and digital finance) with resource allocation and green technology innovation together in a unified scheme. Our study confirmed that the digital economy could significantly promote green technology innovation by manufacturing enterprises, but that digital finance was the dominant feature. Resource allocation efficiency played a partial mediating role between digital economy and green technology innovation. Furthermore, considering the heterogeneity in enterprise ownership and industrial pollution, the digital economy had a more positive effect on green technology innovation in state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and high pollution industries. As for the heterogeneity of region, the Internet significantly contributed to green technology innovation in regions with different levels of development. In the eastern region of China, especially, the influence of digital finance on green technology innovation was more significant. In view of these findings, this study provides important insights for strengthening the integration of the digital economy with green transformation, emphasizing the rationality of resource allocation, and formulating policies for different enterprises.
Effect of periodic water-sediment laden flow on damage for steel piles
Authors: Liu Mingwei , Zeng Liqin , Wu Linjian , Zhu Chenhao , Abi Erdi
Published: September 2022

Due to the problems of shallow overburden and deep water construction, etc., steel tube piles are mostly used in the substructures of frame-wharves in inland rivers of China, especially in the upper stream of Yangtze River. Affected by the fluctuating backwater area of the Three Gorges, anticorrosion coatings of steel structures generally fell off. The steel piles exposed to the water level fluctuation area are subjected to periodic erosion damage process of water-sediment laden flow, which accelerate the corrosions of the steel pile and greatly affect the durability of the wharf structures. In order to explore the effect of periodic water-sediment laden flow on the damage for steel piles in water level fluctuation area of inland rivers, a series of accelerated periodic erosion tests were carried out in laboratory to acquire the damage laws of steel samples under different working conditions. Results showed that the residual masses of steel samples fluctuated with the increasing number of cycles and that the corrosion depths of steel samples were logarithmically correlated with the experimental time. According to the results of periodic accelerated erosion test based on the water-sediment laden flow and existing corrosion theory, a time-dependent model for the corrosion of steel components under water-sediment laden flow was established, as well as a evaluated method for the resistance degradation of steel pile was proposed. Finally, after 20 years, the actual resistance of the steel structure exposed to the water level fluctuation area was less than 60% compared by the initial structural resistance. The research results can provide important guiding significance for reasonably predicting the durability of hydraulic steel structures.
Effects of built area on net primary productivity provided by different landscape characters and the promotion potential
Authors: Li HaoTian , Yang Diechuan , Gao Chi , Liu Wenping
Published: September 2022

Changes in natural and artificial landscapes due to rapid urbanization in recent decades have greatly altered the supply of net primary productivity (NPP) and its regulation mechanisms at the landscape scale, thus affecting the health of the whole ecosystem. Understanding the capacity and potential of NPP supply at the landscape scale based on landscape integrity is critical for regional ecosystem health and management. In this study, the NPP supply capacity of different types of landscape and the influence of urban built-up areas on it were assessed in Hubei Province, China. The optimal capacity criteria of NPP supply in different types of landscape under current conditions were identified, and the promotion potential of NPP was evaluated based on these criteria. The results show that the landscape with natural elements as the main components has a high NPP supply capacity, but it has been greatly influenced by urban development, and the closer the distance to the city is, the lower the NPP supply capacity will be. The plain landscape with construction land and farmland as the main components has weak NPP supply capacity and low sensitivity to urban development. The trend inflection points for the influence of urban development on the NPP supply capacity of different types of landscape can provide more realistic quantitative targets and spatial distribution of NPP improvement potential for decision making. The findings may help in the management of ecosystem health at the landscape scale.
The role and regulatory mechanism of m6A methylation in the nervous system
Authors: Jiang Lingling , Li Xiaoheng , Wang Shasha , Yuan Zengqiang , Cheng Jinbo
Published: September 2022

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification regulates RNA translation, splicing, transport, localization, and stability at the post-transcriptional level. The m6A modification has been reported to have a wide range of effects on the nervous system, including neurogenesis, cerebellar development, learning, cognition, and memory, as well as the occurrence and development of neurological disorders. In this review, we aim to summarize the findings on the role and regulatory mechanism of m6A modification in the nervous system, to reveal the molecular mechanisms of neurodevelopmental processes, and to promote targeted therapy for nervous system-related diseases.
Design of a 2-Bit wide-angle coding metasurface for bistatic RCS reduction
Authors: Huang Yi Fei , Jiang Zhongjin , Liu Lu , Zhang Hao Chi
Published: September 2022

A 2-bit wide-angle coding metasurface is proposed to decrease the bistatic radar cross section (RCS) in this study. Each meta-atom of the designed coding metasurface is composed of a wide-beamwidth microstrip antenna whose feeding port is loaded with an open stub. There are globally four phase-coding states, namely, “00,” “01,” “10,” and “11,” which are achieved in a wide-angle range through an elaborate design of the lengths of the open stubs. Simulation results indicate that, for each meta-atom, the reflective amplitude is above −1 dB, and the reflective phase difference between two adjacent coding states is limited in the range of 90° ± 25° at 8 GHz at incident angles, 0°, 20°, 40°, and 60°. In addition, the generalized Rudin–Shapiro (RS) polynomial is applied to design the coding sequence of the metasurface array to reduce bistatic RCS. A 16 × 16 metasurface array is simulated, manufactured, and measured to validate the bistatic RCS reduction. The simulated results perfectly agree with the experimental results when the incidence angle of the 8 GHz plane wave is within 60°, which shows that the coding metasurface is practical and valid.
Review and perspectives in quantum computing for partial differential equations in structural mechanics
Authors: Tosti Balducci Giorgio , Chen Boyang , Möller Matthias , Gerritsma Marc , De Breuker Roeland
Published: September 2022

Structural mechanics is commonly modeled by (systems of) partial differential equations (PDEs). Except for very simple cases where analytical solutions exist, the use of numerical methods is required to find approximate solutions. However, for many problems of practical interest, the computational cost of classical numerical solvers running on classical, that is, silicon-based computer hardware, becomes prohibitive. Quantum computing, though still in its infancy, holds the promise of enabling a new generation of algorithms that can execute the most cost-demanding parts of PDE solvers up to exponentially faster than classical methods, at least theoretically. Also, increasing research and availability of quantum computing hardware spurs the hope of scientists and engineers to start using quantum computers for solving PDE problems much faster than classically possible. This work reviews the contributions that deal with the application of quantum algorithms to solve PDEs in structural mechanics. The aim is not only to discuss the theoretical possibility and extent of advantage for a given PDE, boundary conditions and input/output to the solver, but also to examine the hardware requirements of the methods proposed in literature.
Efficacy and safety of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy combined with programmed cell death protein-1 antibody and lenvatinib for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Xu Yongkang , Fu Shumin , Mao Ye , Huang Shenglan , Li Dan , Wu Jianbing
Published: September 2022

Background

The purpose of the study was to assess the efficacy and safety in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who are undergoing hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) combined with programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) antibody and lenvatinib.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 61 patients treated with HAIC combined with PD-1 antibody and lenvatinib at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University between September 2020 and January 2022 for advanced HCC. We analyzed tumor response, progression free survival (PFS), and treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs).

Results

The objective response rate (ORR) was 36.1% (RECIST 1.1)/57.4% (mRECIST) and the disease control rate (DCR) was 82.0%. The overall median PFS was 6.0 months, 6.7 months for first-line treatment, and 4.3 months for second-line treatment. The most common TRAEs were neutropenia (50.8%), abdominal pain (45.9%), and aspartate aminotransferase increase (39.3%).

Conclusion

Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy combined with PD-1 antibody and lenvatinib is effective in the treatment of advanced HCC, and the TRAEs are generally controllable.
Idiopathic Spontaneous Intraperitoneal Hemorrhage Due to Vascular Malformations in the Muscularis of the Stomach: A Case Report
Authors: Zhou Yuhang , Zhou Yuchen , Li Weihua , Lin Shengtao
Published: September 2022

Idiopathic spontaneous intraperitoneal hemorrhage (ISIH) is a phenomenon caused by spontaneous rupture of intra-abdominal visceral vessels, and vascular malformations (VMs) leading to ISIH are rare in previously reported cases. VMs of the gastric wall, which are commonly located in the mucosa and submucosa, mostly lead to upper gastrointestinal bleeding rather than intraperitoneal hemorrhage. To our knowledge, this is the first report of ISIH caused by VMs in gastric muscularis. In the current case, a 22-year-old male patient presented with sudden abdominal pain for 4 h, accompanied by tachycardia and hypotension. CT revealed a hematoma in the omental bursa and fluids in abdominopelvic cavities. Then intraperitoneal hemorrhage was confirmed after abdominal paracentesis. Furthermore, ultrasonic gastroscopy indicated that vascular malformation in the muscularis of the stomach probably led to intraperitoneal hemorrhage. The patient recovered after conservative treatment based on fluid resuscitation and remained stable for 12 months of follow-up. This case suggests that VMs located in the gastrointestinal tract may lead to ISIH and ultrasonic gastroscopy is helpful in the diagnosis of VMs in the gastrointestinal tract.
Correlation in endophytic fungi community diversity and bioactive compounds of Sophora alopecuroides
Authors: Ju Mingxiu , Zhang Qingchen , Wang Ruotong , Yan Siyuan , Li Zhengnan , Li Peng , Gu Peiwen
Published: September 2022

Sophora alopecuroides L. is a traditional Chinese medicine used for the treatment of several different disease states including bacillary dysentery and enteritis. But importantly, it also plays a role as an anti-tumor agent. That said, little is known about the role endophytes play regarding the clinically bioactive metabolites in S. alopecuroides. In order to explore the effects of endophytic fungi on the accumulation, quality, and correlation in the content of the medicinal compounds, the structural diversity of endophytic fungi in S. alopecuroides was analyzed. The relationship between endophytes and quinolizidine alkaloids (QAs), housed within the seeds of S. alopecuroides, which were interpreted based on established methods of high-throughput sequencing and high-performance liquid chromatography. A total of 1,034,418 effective sequence reads and 257 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were obtained from 33 samples which were sourced from 11 different sampling sites and further classified into 9 phyla, 20 classes, 45 orders, 85 families, and 118 genera. Ascomycota was found to be the dominant phylum of endophytic fungi in S. alopecuroides, with a relative abundance ranging from 60.85 to 98.30%. Alternaria, Cladosporium, Filobasidium, and an unidentified Ascomycota were the core-shared endophytes, accounting for 49.96, 27.12, 14.83, and 7.88%, respectively. Correlation analysis showed that the Simpson’s diversity index of endophytic fungal community in S. alopecuroides was significantly positively correlated with the Oxymatrine (OMA) content in different areas, while the Chao and Shannoneven indexes were significantly negatively correlated with OMA. The endophytic fungi of Alternaria were positively correlated with the content of OMA, Oxysophocarpine (OSC), and total QAs. This study has mastered the endophytic fungi resources of S. alopecuroides, explored potential functional endophytic fungi, and provided a scientific basis for using biological fertilization strategies to improve the quality of S. alopecuroides.
Comparison of hydrophobicity scales for predicting biophysical properties of antibodies
Authors: Waibl Franz , Fernández-Quintero Monica L. , Wedl Florian S. , Kettenberger Hubert , Georges Guy , Liedl Klaus R.
Published: September 2022

While antibody-based therapeutics have grown to be one of the major classes of novel medicines, some antibody development candidates face significant challenges regarding expression levels, solubility, as well as stability and aggregation, under physiological and storage conditions. A major determinant of those properties is surface hydrophobicity, which promotes unspecific interactions and has repeatedly proven problematic in the development of novel antibody-based drugs. Multiple computational methods have been devised for in-silico prediction of antibody hydrophobicity, often using hydrophobicity scales to assign values to each amino acid. Those approaches are usually validated by their ability to rank potential therapeutic antibodies in terms of their experimental hydrophobicity. However, there is significant diversity both in the hydrophobicity scales and in the experimental methods, and consequently in the performance of in-silico methods to predict experimental results. In this work, we investigate hydrophobicity of monoclonal antibodies using hydrophobicity scales. We implement several scoring schemes based on the solvent-accessibility and the assigned hydrophobicity values, and compare the different scores and scales based on their ability to predict retention times from hydrophobic interaction chromatography. We provide an overview of the strengths and weaknesses of several commonly employed hydrophobicity scales, thereby improving the understanding of hydrophobicity in antibody development. Furthermore, we test several datasets, both publicly available and proprietary, and find that the diversity of the dataset affects the performance of hydrophobicity scores. We expect that this work will provide valuable guidelines for the optimization of biophysical properties in future drug discovery campaigns.
Aging effects on neural processing of rhythm and meter
Authors: Sauvé Sarah A. , Bolt Emily L. W. , Nozaradan Sylvie , Zendel Benjamin Rich
Published: September 2022

When listening to musical rhythm, humans can perceive and move to beat-like metrical pulses. Recently, it has been hypothesized that meter perception is related to brain activity responding to the acoustic fluctuation of the rhythmic input, with selective enhancement of the brain response elicited at meter-related frequencies. In the current study, electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded while younger (<35) and older (>60) adults listened to rhythmic patterns presented at two different tempi while intermittently performing a tapping task. Despite significant hearing loss compared to younger adults, older adults showed preserved brain activity to the rhythms. However, age effects were observed in the distribution of amplitude across frequencies. Specifically, in contrast with younger adults, older adults showed relatively larger amplitude at the frequency corresponding to the rate of individual events making up the rhythms as compared to lower meter-related frequencies. This difference is compatible with larger N1-P2 potentials as generally observed in older adults in response to acoustic onsets, irrespective of meter perception. These larger low-level responses to sounds have been linked to processes by which age-related hearing loss would be compensated by cortical sensory mechanisms. Importantly, this low-level effect would be associated here with relatively reduced neural activity at lower frequencies corresponding to higher-level metrical grouping of the acoustic events, as compared to younger adults.
Association of baseline level of cardiovascular risk burden and its temporal changes with cognitive decline
Authors: Ji Xiaoli , Gao Hui , Sun Daoyuan , Zhao Wensui , Zhuang Jianlin , Wang Kan , Ahmadizar Fariba
Published: September 2022

Background and aim

Previous studies on cardiovascular risk burden assessed by the Framingham General Cardiovascular Risk Score (FGCRS) and cognitive trajectories mainly focus on Western populations and most of them have used a single measure of cardiovascular risk. In this study, among middle-aged and older Chinese, we investigated (i) the association of baseline FGCRS with subsequent cognitive decline and (ii) the association of FGCRS change with concomitant cognitive decline.

Materials and methods

In wave 1 to wave 4 (2011–2018) of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, global cognition was assessed by orientation, memory, and executive function. FGCRS was assessed and categorized into tertiles (low, intermediate, and high) at baseline (2011) and 4 years after (2015). Furthermore, external validation was performed to check its generalizability using the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) 2008–2018.

Results

In total, 6,402 participants with a mean [standard deviation (SD) age of 57.8 (8.4) years, 49.0% women] with complete baseline data and at least one reassessment of cognitive function were included. A 10% increment in baseline FGCRS was associated with a faster decline in global cognition (−0.010 SD/year, 95% CI −0.013, −0.008). Among 4,336 participants [mean (SD) age of 57.8 (8.2) years, 50.0% women] with data on FGCRS changes, compared to individuals with the consistently low FGCRS (reference group), a faster global cognition decline rate was observed in the low to intermediate group (−0.026 SD/year, 95% CI −0.045, −0.007), the low to high group (−0.052 SD/year, 95% CI −0.102, −0.001), the consistently intermediate group (−0.019 SD/year, 95% CI −0.033, −0.005), the intermediate to high group (−0.040 SD/year, 95% CI −0.058, −0.022), the high to intermediate group (−0.024 SD/year, 95% CI −0.047, −0.002), and the consistently high group (−0.047 SD/year, 95% CI −0.060, −0.034). Similar trends were observed for individual cognitive domains. Results from the external validation using the ELSA remained consistent.

Conclusion

Higher baseline FGCRS was associated with faster cognitive decline. However, there was no consistent relationship between the direction of changes in FGCRS and cognitive decline.
Effects of vibration training vs. conventional resistance training among community-dwelling older people with sarcopenia: three-arm randomized controlled trial protocol
Authors: Lu Linqian , He Xiangfeng , Ma Lin , Liu Yu , Chen Nan
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Sarcopenia is a chronic and progressive disease, which is accompanied by the decline in muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance with aging, and it can lead to falls, fracture, and premature death. The prevention and treatment of sarcopenia mainly include exercise therapy and nutritional supplement. Exercise therapy is one of the most potential interventions to prevent and/or delay the progression of sarcopenia. Resistance training (RT), one of the most commonly used exercise types, is widely used in the treatment of sarcopenia, while vibration training (VT) is a prospective strategy for improving sarcopenia in older people. The aim of our study is to compare the effect of VT and RT in older people with sarcopenia on muscle mass, muscle strength, physical performance, blood biomarkers, and quality of life.

Methods and analysis

Our study is a 12-week, three-arm randomized controlled trial with assessor-blinded. The diagnosis criteria for subject recruitment adopt the guidelines for the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia. A total of 54 subjects who met the criteria were randomized into one of the following three groups: VT group, RT group, and control group. The VT group and RT group received a 12-week whole-body vibration training and a resistance training program three times every week, respectively. The primary outcome is lower limb muscle strength, and the secondary outcomes include muscle mass, upper limb muscle strength, physical performance, blood biomarkers, and quality of life. We then performed assessments three times, at baseline (0 week), after intervention (12 weeks), and follow-up (24 weeks). The adverse events were also be reported. All outcome measurements were performed by the same researchers. Data were saved in the unified database, and the collected data of all subjects were analyzed by intention-to-treat analysis.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was reviewed and approved by the Ethical Committee of Xinhua Hospital Chongming Branch. The findings of the study were authorized in peer-reviewed journals with online access; meanwhile, it will be presented at domestic or international academic congresses.

Clinical trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100051178), registered on 15 September 2021.
Quercetin targets VCAM1 to prevent diabetic cerebrovascular endothelial cell injury
Authors: Huang Jiebin , Lin Weiwei , Sun Yuxing , Wang Qian , He Shidian , Han Zhihua , Lu Lixing , Kang Xueran , Chen Yisheng , Guo Haoran , Cui Zhiyong , Sun Chenyu , Go Ken , Wu Junyi , Yao Mengxuan , Cao Mingfeng , Xu Yuzhen
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Endothelial cells play important roles in neurodegenerative diseases caused by diabetes, therefore, we aimed at investigating the mechanisms through which endothelial cells are involved in diabetes development.

Methods

Single cell analysis was performed to identify the major endothelial cell subtypes in cardiovascular tissues that are involved in diabetes development. A cell-cell communication approach was then used to identify ligand-receptor interaction pairs between these cell types. Differential expression analysis between the two experimental groups [standard chow diet group and diabetogenic diet with cholesterol (DDC) group] was used to identify diabetes-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The upregulated genes were used to identify candidate ligands or receptors, as well as the corresponding cell types. Cell trajectory inference was performed to identify the stage of cell development and changes in expression of candidate ligands or receptors during cell development. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was conducted to investigate the biological functions of genes of purpose. Finally, molecular dynamics simulations (MDSs) were used to predict potential drugs with the ability to target the proteins of purpose.

Results

Seven cell types, including five endothelial cell subtypes (EC_1, EC_2, EC_3, EC_4, and EC_EndMT), were identified from endothelial cell-enriched single cell samples from the heart and aorta of mice. Cell-cell communication analysis revealed the potential ligand-receptor interactions between these cell types while five important ligand-receptor-associated genes, including Fn1, Vcam1, Fbn1, Col4a1, and Col4a2, were established by differential expression analysis. Among them, Vcam1 is mainly expressed in EC_EndMT and is involved in interactions between EC_EndMT and other cells. Cell trajectory extrapolation analysis revealed a shift from EC_2/EC_4 to EC_EndMT and a shift from EC_EndMT to EC_3/EC_1 during the progression of diabetes. GSEA analysis revealed that upregulation of VCAM1 may have inhibitory effects on cell growth and energy metabolism.

Conclusion

EC_EndMT subtypes have a complex role in neurodegenerative diseases caused by diabetes. Through mechanisms involved in cell-cell communication, Vcam1 may play an important role in dysregulation of biological functions of EC_ EndMT. Molecular docking results of the quercetin-VCAM1 complex suggest that quercetin may be an effective drug for targeting this protein.
White matter hyperintensities volume and cognition: A meta-analysis
Authors: Guo Wenjuan , Shi Jing
Published: September 2022

Background

Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is prevalent in the elderly and leads to an increased risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. The volume of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) increases with age, which affects cognition.

Objective

To explore the relationship between WMH volume and cognitive decline in patients with CSVD.

Methods

We performed a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and the Web of Science databases from their respective creation dates to the 5 May 2022 to identify all the clinical studies on either mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia in regards to WMH volume in CSVD.

Results

White matter hyperintensities was associated with the risk of both the MCI and dementia, with a 35% increased risk [relative risk (RR) = 1.35; (95% CI: 1.01–1.81)] of progression from cognitively unimpaired (CU) to MCI (six studies, n = 2,278) and a 49% increased risk [RR = 1.49; (95% CI: 1.21–1.84)] of progression to dementia (six studies, n = 6,330). In a subgroup analysis, a follow-up period of over 5 years increased the risk of MCI by 40% [RR = 1.40; (95% CI: 1.07–1.82)] and dementia by 48% [RR = 1.48; (95% CI: 1.15–1.92)].

Conclusion

White matter hyperintensities was found to be substantially correlated with the risk of cognitive impairment. Furthermore, cognitive decline was found to be a chronic process, such that WMH predicted the rate of cognitive decline in CSVD beyond 5 years. The cognitive decline observed in patients with WMH may, therefore, be minimized by early intervention.