bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local stability analysis of two density-dependent semelparous species in two age classes
Authors: Hasibuan Arjun , Supriatna Asep K. , Carnia Ema
Published: September 2022

It is crucial to take into account the dynamics of the species while investigating how a species may survive in an environment. A species can be classified as either semelparous or iteroparous depending on how it reproduces. In this article, we present a model, which consists of two semelparous species by considering two age classes. We specifically discuss the effects of density-dependent in the interaction between the two semelparaous species and examine the equilibria of the system in the absence and presence of harvesting in the system. Then, the local stability of the equilibria is also investigated. A modified Leslie matrix population model with the addition of density-dependent in the equation is used. The model is analyzed in the presence and absence of competition between these species. We assume that density-dependent only occurred in the first age class of both species and that harvesting only occurred in the second age class of both species. Then, we assume that competition only occurs in the first age class in both species in the form of interspecific and intraspecific competition. This assumption is intended to simplify the complexity of the problem in the model. Our results show that there are three equilibria in the model without competition and four equilibria in the model with the competition. Hence, the presence of competition has influenced the number of equilibria. We also investigate the relation between the stability of the equilibria with the net reproduction rate of the system. Furthermore, we found the condition for the local stability of the co-existence equilibrium point, which is related to the degree of interspecific and intraspecific competition. This theory may be applied to investigate the dynamics of natural resources, whether in the absence of human exploitation and in the presence of various strategies in managing the exploitation of the resources, such as in fisheries industries.
Current applications of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in bone repair and regeneration: A review of cell experiments, animal models, and clinical trials
Authors: Zhang Zhengyue , Yang Xiao , Cao Xiankun , Qin An , Zhao Jie
Published: September 2022

In the field of orthopaedics, bone defects caused by severe trauma, infection, tumor resection, and skeletal abnormalities are very common. However, due to the lengthy and painful process of related surgery, people intend to shorten the recovery period and reduce the risk of rejection; as a result, more attention is being paid to bone regeneration with mesenchymal stromal cells, one of which is the adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) from adipose tissue. After continuous subculture and cryopreservation, ASCs still have the potential for multidirectional differentiation. They can be implanted in the human body to promote bone repair after induction in vitro, solve the problems of scarce sources and large damage, and are expected to be used in the treatment of bone defects and non-union fractures. However, the diversity of its differentiation lineage and the lack of bone formation potential limit its current applications in bone disease. Here, we concluded the current applications of ASCs in bone repair, especially with the combination and use of physical and biological methods. ASCs alone have been proved to contribute to the repair of bone damage in vivo and in vitro. Attaching to bone scaffolds or adding bioactive molecules can enhance the formation of the bone matrix. Moreover, we further evaluated the efficiency of ASC-committed differentiation in the bone in conditions of cell experiments, animal models, and clinical trials. The results show that ASCs in combination with synthetic bone grafts and biomaterials may affect the regeneration, augmentation, and vascularization of bone defects on bone healing. The specific conclusion of different materials applied with ASCs may vary. It has been confirmed to benefit osteogenesis by regulating osteogenic signaling pathways and gene transduction. Exosomes secreted by ASCs also play an important role in osteogenesis. This review will illustrate the understanding of scientists and clinicians of the enormous promise of ASCs’ current applications and future development in bone repair and regeneration, and provide an incentive for superior employment of such strategies.
EMG-driven musculoskeletal model calibration with estimation of unmeasured muscle excitations via synergy extrapolation
Authors: Ao Di , Vega Marleny M. , Shourijeh Mohammad S. , Patten Carolynn , Fregly Benjamin J.
Published: September 2022

Subject-specific electromyography (EMG)-driven musculoskeletal models that predict muscle forces have the potential to enhance our knowledge of internal biomechanics and neural control of normal and pathological movements. However, technical gaps in experimental EMG measurement, such as inaccessibility of deep muscles using surface electrodes or an insufficient number of EMG channels, can cause difficulties in collecting EMG data from muscles that contribute substantially to joint moments, thereby hindering the ability of EMG-driven models to predict muscle forces and joint moments reliably. This study presents a novel computational approach to address the problem of a small number of missing EMG signals during EMG-driven model calibration. The approach (henceforth called “synergy extrapolation” or SynX) linearly combines time-varying synergy excitations extracted from measured muscle excitations to estimate 1) unmeasured muscle excitations and 2) residual muscle excitations added to measured muscle excitations. Time-invariant synergy vector weights defining the contribution of each measured synergy excitation to all unmeasured and residual muscle excitations were calibrated simultaneously with EMG-driven model parameters through a multi-objective optimization. The cost function was formulated as a trade-off between minimizing joint moment tracking errors and minimizing unmeasured and residual muscle activation magnitudes. We developed and evaluated the approach by treating a measured fine wire EMG signal (iliopsoas) as though it were “unmeasured” for walking datasets collected from two individuals post-stroke–one high functioning and one low functioning. How well unmeasured muscle excitations and activations could be predicted with SynX was assessed quantitatively for different combinations of SynX methodological choices, including the number of synergies and categories of variability in unmeasured and residual synergy vector weights across trials. The two best methodological combinations were identified, one for analyzing experimental walking trials used for calibration and another for analyzing experimental walking trials not used for calibration or for predicting new walking motions computationally. Both methodological combinations consistently provided reliable and efficient estimates of unmeasured muscle excitations and activations, muscle forces, and joint moments across both subjects. This approach broadens the possibilities for EMG-driven calibration of muscle-tendon properties in personalized neuromusculoskeletal models and may eventually contribute to the design of personalized treatments for mobility impairments.
Bioactive glass-collagen/poly (glycolic acid) scaffold nanoparticles exhibit improved biological properties and enhance osteogenic lineage differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Toosi Shirin , Naderi-Meshkin Hojjat , Esmailzadeh Zohreh , Behravan Ghazal , Ramakrishna Seeram , Behravan Javad
Published: September 2022

Today’s using tissue engineering and suitable scaffolds have got attention to increase healing of non-union bone fractures. In this study, we aimed to prepare and characterize scaffolds with functional and mechanical properties suitable for bone regeneration. Porous scaffolds containing collagen-poly glycolic acid (PGA) blends and various quantities of bioactive glass (BG) 45S5 were fabricated. Scaffolds with different compositions (BG/collagen-PGA ratios (w/w): 0/100; 40/60; 70/30) were characterized for their morphological properties, bioactivity, and mechanical behavior. Then, biocompatibility and osteogenic differentiation potential of the scaffolds were analyzed by seeding mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Scaffolds made with collagen-PGA combined with the BG (45S5) were found to have interconnected pores (average pore diameter size 75–115 µm) depending on the percentage of the BG added. Simulated body fluid (SBF) soaking experiments indicated the stability of scaffolds in SBF regardless of their compositions, while the scaffolds retained their highly interconnected structure. The elastic moduli, cell viability, osteogenic differentiation of the BG/collagen-PGA 40/60 and 70/30 scaffolds were superior to the original BG/collagen-PGA (0/100). These results suggest that BG incorporation enhanced the physical stability of our collagen-PGA scaffold previously reported. This new scaffold composition provides a promising platform to be used as a non-toxic scaffold for bone regeneration and tissue engineering.
Antagonism Between DUX4 and DUX4c Highlights a Pathomechanism Operating Through β-Catenin in Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Ganassi Massimo , Figeac Nicolas , Reynaud Magalie , Ortuste Quiroga Huascar Pedro , Zammit Peter S.
Published: September 2022

Aberrant expression of the transcription factor DUX4 from D4Z4 macrosatellite repeats on chromosome 4q35, and its transcriptome, associate with pathogenesis in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD). Forced DUX4 expression halts skeletal muscle cell proliferation and induces cell death. DUX4 binds DNA via two homeodomains that are identical in sequence to those of DUX4c (DUX4L9): a closely related transcriptional regulator encoded by a single, inverted, mutated D4Z4 unit located centromeric to the D4Z4 macrosatellite array on chromosome 4. However, the function and contribution of DUX4c to FSHD pathogenesis are unclear. To explore interplay between DUX4, DUX4c, and the DUX4-induced phenotype, we investigated whether DUX4c interferes with DUX4 function in human myogenesis. Constitutive expression of DUX4c rescued the DUX4-induced inhibition of proliferation and reduced cell death in human myoblasts. Functionally, DUX4 promotes nuclear translocation of β-CATENIN and increases canonical WNT signalling. Concomitant constitutive expression of DUX4c prevents β-CATENIN nuclear accumulation and the downstream transcriptional program. DUX4 reduces endogenous DUX4c levels, whereas constitutive expression of DUX4c robustly suppresses expression of DUX4 target genes, suggesting molecular antagonism. In line, DUX4 expression in FSHD myoblasts correlates with reduced DUX4c levels. Addressing the mechanism, we identified a subset of genes involved in the WNT/β-CATENIN pathway that are differentially regulated between DUX4 and DUX4c, whose expression pattern can separate muscle biopsies from severely affected FSHD patients from healthy. Finally, blockade of WNT/β-CATENIN signalling rescues viability of FSHD myoblasts. Together, our study highlights an antagonistic interplay whereby DUX4 alters cell viability via β-CATENIN signalling and DUX4c counteracts aspects of DUX4-mediated toxicity in human muscle cells, potentially acting as a gene modifier for FSHD severity. Importantly, direct DUX4 regulation of the WNT/β-CATENIN pathway informs future therapeutic interventions to ameliorate FSHD pathology.
Expansion of the Inguinal Adipose Tissue Depot Correlates With Systemic Insulin Resistance in C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Fryklund Claes , Neuhaus Mathis , Morén Björn , Borreguero-Muñoz Andrea , Lundmark Richard , Stenkula Karin G.
Published: September 2022

To accommodate surplus energy, the adipose tissue expands by increasing adipocyte size (hypertrophy) and number (hyperplasia). The presence of hypertrophic adipocytes is a key characteristic of adipose tissue dysfunction. High-fat diet (HFD) fed C57BL/6J mice are a commonly used model to study obesity and obesity-related complications. In the present study, we have characterized adipose plasticity, at both the cellular and tissue level, by examining the temporal development of systemic insulin resistance and adiposity in response to HFD-feeding for 4, 8, and 12 weeks (4w, 8w, and 12w). Within the same time frame, we examined systemic metabolic flexibility and adipose plasticity when switching from HFD- to chow-diet during the last 2 weeks of diet intervention (referred to as the reverse (REV) group: 4wREV (2w HFD+2w chow), 8wREV (6w HFD+2w chow), 12wREV (10w HFD+2w chow)). In response to HFD-feeding over time, the 12w group had impaired systemic insulin sensitivity compared to both the 4w and 8w groups, accompanied by an increase in hypertrophic inguinal adipocytes and liver triglycerides. After reversing from HFD- to chow-feeding, most parameters were completely restored to chow control levels for 4wREV and 8wREV groups. In contrast, the 12wREV group had a significantly increased number of hypertrophic adipocytes, liver triglycerides accumulation, and impaired systemic insulin sensitivity compared to chow-fed mice. Further, image analysis at the single-cell level revealed a cell-size dependent organization of actin filaments for all feeding conditions. Indeed, the impaired adipocyte size plasticity in the 12wREV group was accompanied by increased actin filamentation and reduced insulin-stimulated glucose uptake compared with chow-fed mice. In summary, these results demonstrate that the C57BL/6J HFD-feeding model has a large capacity to restore adipocyte cell size and systemic insulin sensitivity, and that a metabolic tipping point occurs between 8 and 12w of HFD-feeding where this plasticity deteriorates. We believe these findings provide substantial understanding of C57BL/6J mice as an obesity model, and that an increased pool of hypertrophic ING adipocytes could contribute to aggravated insulin resistance.
Craniofacial tendon development—Characterization of extracellular matrix morphology and spatiotemporal protein distribution
Authors: Korntner Stefanie H. , Jana Aniket , Kinnard Elizabeth , Leo Emily , Beane Timothy , Li Xianmu , Sengupta Rohit , Becker Lauren , Kuo Catherine K.
Published: September 2022

Craniofacial (CF) tendons are often affected by traumatic injuries and painful disorders that can severely compromise critical jaw functions, such as mastication and talking. Unfortunately, tendons lack the ability to regenerate, and there are no solutions to restore their native properties or function. An understanding of jaw tendon development could inform tendon regeneration strategies to restore jaw function, however CF tendon development has been relatively unexplored. Using the chick embryo, we identified the jaw-closing Tendon of the musculus Adductor Mandibulae Externus (TmAM) and the jaw-opening Tendon of the musculus Depressor Mandibulae (TmDM) that have similar functions to the masticatory tendons in humans. Using histological and immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses, we characterized the TmAM and TmDM on the basis of cell and extracellular matrix (ECM) morphology and spatiotemporal protein distribution from early to late embryonic development. The TmAM and TmDM were detectable as early as embryonic day (d) 9 based on histological staining and tenascin-C (TNC) protein distribution. Collagen content increased and became more organized, cell density decreased, and cell nuclei elongated over time during development in both the TmAM and TmDM. The TmAM and TmDM exhibited similar spatiotemporal patterns for collagen type III (COL3), but differential spatiotemporal patterns for TNC, lysyl oxidase (LOX), and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Our results demonstrate markers that play a role in limb tendon formation are also present in jaw tendons during embryonic development, implicate COL3, TNC, LOX, MMP2, and MMP9 in jaw tendon development, and suggest TmAM and TmDM possess different developmental programs. Taken together, our study suggests the chick embryo may be used as a model with which to study CF tendon extracellular matrix development, the results of which could ultimately inform therapeutic approaches for CF tendon injuries and disorders.
Bicaudal-C Post-transcriptional regulator of cell fates and functions
Authors: Dowdle Megan E. , Kanzler Charlotte R. , Harder Cole R. K. , Moffet Samuel , Walker Maya N. , Sheets Michael D.
Published: September 2022

Bicaudal-C (Bicc1) is an evolutionarily conserved RNA binding protein that functions in a regulatory capacity in a variety of contexts. It was originally identified as a genetic locus in Drosophila that when disrupted resulted in radical changes in early development. In the most extreme phenotypes embryos carrying mutations developed with mirror image duplications of posterior structures and it was this striking phenotype that was responsible for the name Bicaudal. These seminal studies established Bicc1 as an important regulator of Drosophila development. What was not anticipated from the early work, but was revealed subsequently in many different organisms was the broad fundamental impact that Bicc1 proteins have on developmental biology; from regulating cell fates in vertebrate embryos to defects associated with several human disease states. In the following review we present a perspective of Bicc1 focusing primarily on the molecular aspects of its RNA metabolism functions in vertebrate embryos.
Copper deficiency affects the developmental competence of porcine oocytes matured in vitro
Authors: Choi Hyerin , Oh Dongjin , Kim Mirae , Cai Lian , Lee Joohyeong , Kim Eunhye , Lee Gabsang , Hyun Sang-Hwan
Published: September 2022

The trace element Cu is required for the activity of various enzymes essential for physiological processes. In this study, we elucidated the copper transport system in porcine follicular cells and investigated the effect of Cu chelation during in vitro maturation (IVM) of porcine oocytes and subsequent embryonic development after parthenogenetic activation (PA). Cu chelation was induced by adding tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA) to the maturation media (TCM199-PVA). First, we identified the localization and relative levels of the copper transporter CTR1 in follicular cells. The level of CTR1 protein was the highest in mature cumulus cells; moreover, CTR1 was mainly localized in the cytoplasmic vesicular compartment in oocytes, whereas it was evenly distributed in the cytoplasm in cumulus cells. A total of 42 h after IVM, the TEPA-treated group showed reduced maturation rates compared to those of the control (p < 0.05). This negative effect of TEPA disappeared when it was added to the media with Cu (Cu + TEPA group). The TEPA treatment during IVM significantly increased the mRNA levels of the Has2 gene, which is related to cumulus expansion (p < 0.05). Both Cu supplementation and chelation significantly increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in porcine oocytes (p < 0.05). When we analyzed the transcript levels of folliculogenesis-related genes in Cu chelation conditions, only the expression of MAPK3 in cumulus cells significantly increased compared to that of the control. We also evaluated the subsequent embryonic development of PA embryos. TEPA-treated oocytes showed significantly decreased blastocyst formation rates compared to those of the control. The TEPA-induced toxic effect was alleviated when Cu was added with TEPA. Our findings suggest that the Cu transport system plays an important role in the porcine follicular development process and that the Cu deficiency negatively affects porcine oocyte maturation, as well as their subsequent developmental competence.
Process intensification in continuous flow organic synthesis with enabling and hybrid technologies
Authors: Grillo Giorgio , Cintas Pedro , Colia Mariachiara , Calcio Gaudino Emanuela , Cravotto Giancarlo
Published: September 2022

Industrial organic synthesis is time and energy consuming, and generates substantial waste. Traditional conductive heating and mixing in batch reactors is no longer competitive with continuous-flow synthetic methods and enabling technologies that can strongly promote reaction kinetics. These advances lead to faster and simplified downstream processes with easier workup, purification and process scale-up. In the current Industry 4.0 revolution, new advances that are based on cyber-physical systems and artificial intelligence will be able to optimize and invigorate synthetic processes by connecting cascade reactors with continuous in-line monitoring and even predict solutions in case of unforeseen events. Alternative energy sources, such as dielectric and ohmic heating, ultrasound, hydrodynamic cavitation, reactive extruders and plasma have revolutionized standard procedures. So-called hybrid or hyphenated techniques, where the combination of two different energy sources often generates synergistic effects, are also worthy of mention. Herein, we report our consolidated experience of all of these alternative techniques.
Plant biomass as potential economic commodities for agricultural purposes
Authors: Obuseng Veronica C. , Moshoeshoe Mohau N. , Nareetsile Florence M. , Kwaambwa Habauka , Maina Irene
Published: September 2022

The world’s population is growing continually and is projected to reach nine billion by the year 2050. This growth rate requires increased and economically viable food production and an adequate supply of quality water to sustain life. Increased food production and supply of water require adding fertilizers and possible recycling of wastewater, to address the improvement of soils’ nutritional status and potable water shortages, respectively. The objectives of this work were to determine the nutrients in sewage-impacted wastewater, borehole water, agricultural waste, and commercial fertilizer (control) materials, and their heavy metal content was also carried out to determine their suitability for use. In addition, Moringa seed pods and Morula nutshells were investigated as a bioremedial approach for the removal of toxic metals from aqueous samples. An attempt to regenerate sorbent was made since the saturated sorbents that contain the metal ions are not safe for disposal as they can pollute the environment. Nutrients were analyzed by HPLC, while metals were analyzed using a Varian 220FS Atomic Absorption Spectrometer operated with air/acetylene. Nonedible agricultural materials were found to contain appreciable amounts of plant nutrients such as nitrates (NO3-), nitrites (NO2-), and phosphates (PO43-) as well as metal ions such as magnesium, copper, and zinc, which are beneficial for plant growth. Results obtained from analysis of sewage water effluent showed that heavy metal and nutrient concentrations decreased in the treatment stage. The utilization of Moringa oleifera seed pods for metal removal from wastewater is viable and would reduce costs for waste disposal and can offer alternatives to conventional methods for the removal of unwanted or toxic species from the environment. It showed potential for removing selected metal ions such as Pb, Cd, Cu, Fe, and Zn from polluted water. This organically treated wastewater is environmentally friendly and may be used for applications which do not require potable water, such as irrigating golf courses, lawns, and crops, or for industrial purposes, if proper measures are taken to ensure its quality.
Synthesis and evaluation of anticancer activity of quillaic acid derivatives: A cell cycle arrest and apoptosis inducer through NF-κB and MAPK pathways
Authors: Huang Xing , Zhang Chang-Hao , Deng Hao , Wu Dan , Guo Hong-Yan , Lee Jung Joon , Chen Fen-Er , Shen Qing-Kun , Jin Li-Li , Quan Zhe-Shan
Published: September 2022

A series of quillaic acid derivatives with different substituents on the 28-carboxyl group were designed and synthesized. Five human cancer cell lines (HCT116, BEL7402, HepG2, SW620, and MCF-7) were evaluated for their antitumor activity in vitro. Some of the tested derivatives showed improved antiproliferative activity compared to the lead compound, quillaic acid. Among them, compound E (IC50 = 2.46 ± 0.44 μM) showed the strongest antiproliferative activity against HCT116 cells; compared with quillaic acid (IC50 > 10 μM), its efficacy against HCT116 cancer cells was approximately 4-fold higher than that of quillaic acid. Compound E also induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis by modulating NF-κB and MAPK pathways. Therefore, the development of compound E is certainly valuable for anti-tumor applications.
Dehalogenation reactions between halide salts and phosphate compounds
Authors: Riley Brian J. , Chong Saehwa
Published: September 2022

Reactions between phosphoric acid [H3PO4] or ammonium hydrogen phosphates [i.e., NH4H2PO4, (NH4)2HPO4] and halide salts can be used to dehalogenate (remove halides from) salt-based waste streams, where the process of removing halides yields products that have more efficient disposal pathways for repository storage. In this context, the term efficiency is defined as higher waste loadings and simplified immobilization processes with potential for recycle of certain salt components (e.g., 37Cl as H37Cl or NH437Cl). The main streams identified for these processes are nuclear wastes generated during electrochemical reprocessing of used nuclear fuel as well as used halide salts from molten salt reactor operation. The potential byproducts of these reactions are fairly consistent across the range of halide species (i.e., F, Cl, Br, I) where the most common are hydrogen halides [e.g., HCl(g)] or ammonium halides (e.g., NH4Cl). However, trihalide compounds (e.g., NCl3), nitrogen triiodide ammine adducts [NI3·(NH3)x], and ammonium triiodide (NH4I3) are also possible. Several of these byproducts (i.e., NCl3, NBr3, NI3, and NH4I3) are shock-sensitive contact explosives so their production in these processes must be tracked and carefully controlled, which includes methods of immediate neutralization upon production such as direct transport to a caustic scrubber for dissolution. Several benefits arise from utilizing H3PO4 as the phosphate additive during dehalogenation reactions for making iron phosphate waste forms including more oxidized iron (higher Fe3+:Fe2+ ratios), higher chemical durabilities, and the avoidance of trihalides, but the byproducts are hydrogen halides, which are corrosive and require special handling.
Neuroprotective and antioxidant activities of different polarity parts of the extracts of the Ginkgo biloba leaf and Zingiber officinale rhizome from Yongzhou
Authors: Huang Zuoying , Yuan Tingting , Chen Jiayi , Jiang Mihan , Yan Rongling , Yang Wencai , Wang Liqian , Liao Yang , Huang Guowen
Published: September 2022

In order to make better use of the two local dominant plant resources of Ginkgo biloba and Zingiber officinale from Yongzhou in Hunan province, the in vitro neuroprotective and antioxidant activities of extracts from the G. biloba leaf and Z. officinale rhizome, and the correlation between these two kinds of activities, were analyzed. The in vivo effects of these two plant extracts on aged mice blood physiology and central neuron cell activity were then determined after continuous gavage with the best polarity part at different concentrations (2, 4, 8 mg/ml). The results showed that the cell survival rate and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of the induced injury central neurons increased, although the malondialdehyde (MDA) content decreased gradually with the extract concentrations increasing in a certain range. Different polarity parts performed differently, even though they had the same concentration, with G. biloba always performing better than the Z. officinale rhizome at the same concentration and polarity. The order of G. biloba extract from superior to inferior was ethanol, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, chloroform, water, and petroleum ether (except that the petroleum ether part performed slightly better than the water part at 0.4 and 0.5 mg/ml), while the order of Z. officinale rhizome extract from superior to inferior was ethanol, chloroform, n-butanol, ethyl acetate, water, and petroleum ether. These two plant extracts demonstrated good in vitro effect against oxygen free radicals; the scavenging rate of superoxide free radicals had a significant positive correlation with the cell survival rate. The in vivo central nerve cell activity and SOD, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) activity in aged mice blood serum increased while the MDA content decreased with treatment with these two extracts (p < 0.05). There were no significant changes in the number of leukocytes, lymphocytes, red blood cells, hemoglobin content, blood urine nitrogen, uric acid, creatinine, and the enzyme activity of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) and glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) (p > 0.05). G. biloba had a better in vivo effect than Z. officinale rhizome even though their concentration and polarity part were same. These results could provide some references for better development of these two plant extracts from Yongzhou in the field of neuroprotection.
Efficacy and In Vitro Activity of Novel Antibiotics for Infections With Carbapenem-Resistant Gram-Negative Pathogens
Authors: Cruz-López Flora , Martínez-Meléndez Adrian , Morfin-Otero Rayo , Rodriguez-Noriega Eduardo , Maldonado-Garza Héctor J. , Garza-González Elvira
Published: September 2022

Infections by Gram-negative multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial species are difficult to treat using available antibiotics. Overuse of carbapenems has contributed to widespread resistance to these antibiotics; as a result, carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE), A. baumannii (CRAB), and P. aeruginosa (CRPA) have become common causes of healthcare-associated infections. Carbapenems, tigecycline, and colistin are the last resource antibiotics currently used; however, multiple reports of resistance to these antimicrobial agents have been documented worldwide. Recently, new antibiotics have been evaluated against Gram-negatives, including plazomicin (a new aminoglycoside) to treat CRE infection, eravacycline (a novel tetracycline) with in vitro activity against CRAB, and cefiderocol (a synthetic conjugate) for the treatment of nosocomial pneumonia by carbapenem-non-susceptible Gram-negative isolates. Furthermore, combinations of known β-lactams with recently developed β-lactam inhibitors, such as ceftazidime-avibactam, ceftolozane-tazobactam, ceftazidime-tazobactam, and meropenem-vaborbactam, has been suggested for the treatment of infections by extended-spectrum β-lactamases, carbapenemases, and AmpC producer bacteria. Nonetheless, they are not active against all carbapenemases, and there are reports of resistance to these combinations in clinical isolates.This review summarizes and discusses the in vitro and clinical evidence of the recently approved antibiotics, β-lactam inhibitors, and those in advanced phases of development for treating MDR infections caused by Gram-negative multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial species.
Three-dimensional electroanatomic mapping characteristics of superior vena cava myocardial sleeve and sinoatrial node in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Chen Xinguang , Lu Yao , Liu Yanmin , Chen Qiushi , Chen Hongwu , Ju Weizhu , Yang Gang , Zhu Yeqian , Zhao Pengcheng , Zhang Jian , Mao Yangming , Su Xiaoling , Zhang Fengxiang , Chen Minglong
Published: September 2022

Background

Three-dimensional activation mapping during sinus rhythm can demonstrate the earliest atrial activation (EAA) site, which could be the sinoatrial node (SAN). We aimed to compare the electroanatomical characteristics of superior vena cava (SVC), myocardial sleeve, and SAN between patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and non-AF.

Materials and methods

In this study, 136 patients with AF were assigned to the study group, and 20 patients with premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) who had no history of AF were assigned to the control group. The right atrium (RA) and SVC anatomical activation models were constructed, and the EAA of SAN was delineated using the CARTO3 mapping system. The length of the SVC myocardial sleeve (LSVC) was measured.

Results

Of the 136 patients, 93 patients had paroxysmal AF (PAF), and 43 patients had persistent AF (PsAF). The LSVC was not significantly different among AF and non-AF, PAF, and PsAF. The LSVC in men was longer than in women (42.1 ± 9.4 mm vs. 35.4 ± 8.1 mm, p < 0.001). The LSVC was longer in patients with EAA of SAN above the RA-SVC junction than in those with below the RA-SVC junction (p < 0.001). The EAA of SAN was below the RA-SVC junction in 64/136 (47.1%) and was above the junction in 72/136 (52.9%) patients with AF. The spatial distribution of the EAA of SAN between PAF and PsAF was not different. There was a trend of statistical difference in the distribution of the EAA of SAN between PsAF and non-AF.

Conclusion

The EAA of SAN was located in the SVC in most of the patients, especially in patients with PsAF.
Using a machine learning model to predict the development of acute kidney injury in patients with heart failure
Authors: Liu Wen Tao , Liu Xiao Qi , Jiang Ting Ting , Wang Meng Ying , Huang Yang , Huang Yu Lin , Jin Feng Yong , Zhao Qing , Wu Qin Yi , Liu Bi Cheng , Ruan Xiong Zhong , Ma Kun Ling
Published: September 2022

Background

Heart failure (HF) is a life-threatening complication of cardiovascular disease. HF patients are more likely to progress to acute kidney injury (AKI) with a poor prognosis. However, it is difficult for doctors to distinguish which patients will develop AKI accurately. This study aimed to construct a machine learning (ML) model to predict AKI occurrence in HF patients.

Materials and methods

The data of HF patients from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care-IV (MIMIC-IV) database was retrospectively analyzed. A ML model was established to predict AKI development using decision tree, random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), K-nearest neighbor (KNN), and logistic regression (LR) algorithms. Thirty-nine demographic, clinical, and treatment features were used for model establishment. Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) were used to evaluate the performance of the ML algorithms.

Results

A total of 2,678 HF patients were engaged in this study, of whom 919 developed AKI. Among 5 ML algorithms, the RF algorithm exhibited the highest performance with the AUROC of 0.96. In addition, the Gini index showed that the sequential organ function assessment (SOFA) score, partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were highly relevant to AKI development. Finally, to facilitate clinical application, a simple model was constructed using the 10 features screened by the Gini index. The RF algorithm also exhibited the highest performance with the AUROC of 0.95.

Conclusion

Using the ML model could accurately predict the development of AKI in HF patients.
Ministernotomy approach to aortic arch inclusion and frozen elephant trunk in the treatment of acute Stanford A aortic dissection
Authors: Wang Weitie , Wang Yong , Piao Hulin , Zhu Zhicheng , Li Dan , Wang Tiance , Liu Kexiang
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to report our results of ministernotomy approach to Liu’s aortic root repair technique, Liu’s aortic arch inclusion technique with frozen elephant trunk (FET) in the treatment in type A aortic dissection (TAAD). We retrospectively analyzed data on 68 Stanford A aortic dissection patients from October 2017 to March 2020. All patients underwent Liu’s aortic root repair technique, Liu’s aortic arch inclusion technique with FET and mild-moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest combined with ministernotomy approach. 154 TAAD patients between January 2014 and December 2016 underwent complete sternotomy were selected as control group. Clinical characteristics, data during operation, in-hospital and postoperative outcomes of these patients were observed. The mean hypothermic circulatory arrest time in ministernotomy Patients was 39.3 ± 7.9 min, aortic cross-clamp time was 105.9 ± 12.8 min, cardiopulmonary bypass time was 152.8 ± 24.3 min. Three patients died of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome in ministernotomy Patients. Perioperative temporary neurological dysfunction occurred in three (4.41%) patients, and 53 (77.9%) patients did not require any blood product transfusion during and after operation in ministernotomy Patients. Postoperative CT angiography (CTA) examination at 6-32 months showed excellent outcomes except in three (4.41%) cases where arch false lumen patency persisted. The Liu’s aortic root repair technique, Liu’s aortic arch inclusion technique with FET and mild-moderate hypothermia circulatory arrest simplify the surgical procedure and reduce bleeding, which can be accomplished through minimally invasive approach.
Effect of 9p21.3 (lncRNA and CDKN2A/2B) variant on lipid profile
Authors: Wei Baozhu , Liu Yang , Li Hang , Peng Yuanyuan , Luo Zhi
Published: September 2022

Background

Several 9p21.3 variants, such as rs1333049, rs4977574, rs10757274, rs10757278, and rs10811661, identified from recent genome-wide association studies (GWASs) are reported to be associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) susceptibility but independent of dyslipidemia. This study investigated whether these 9p21.3 variants influenced lipid profiles.

Methods and results

By searching the PubMed and Cochrane databases, 101,099 individuals were included in the analysis. The consistent finding for the rs1333049 C allele on lipid profiles increased the triglyceride (TG) levels. Moreover, the rs4977574 G allele and the rs10757274 G allele, respectively, increased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. However, the rs10811661 C allele largely reduced LDL-C levels. Subgroup analyses indicated that the effects of the rs1333049 C allele, rs4977574 G allele, and rs10757274 G allele on lipid profiles were stronger in Whites compared with Asians. In contrast, the effect of the rs10811661 C allele on lipid profiles was stronger in Asians compared with Whites.

Conclusion

The rs1333049 C allele, rs4977574 G allele, and rs10757274 G allele of lncRNA, and the rs10811661 G allele of CDKN2A/2B had a significant influence on lipid levels, which may help the understanding of the underlying mechanisms between 9p21.3 variants and CAD.
Predicting acute kidney injury risk in acute myocardial infarction patients: An artificial intelligence model using medical information mart for intensive care databases
Authors: Cai Dabei , Xiao Tingting , Zou Ailin , Mao Lipeng , Chi Boyu , Wang Yu , Wang Qingjie , Ji Yuan , Sun Ling
Published: September 2022

Background

Predictive models based on machine learning have been widely used in clinical practice. Patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are prone to the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI), which results in a poor prognosis for the patient. The aim of this study was to develop a machine learning predictive model for the identification of AKI in AMI patients.

Methods

Patients with AMI who had been registered in the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC) III and IV database were enrolled. The primary outcome was the occurrence of AKI during hospitalization. We developed Random Forests (RF) model, Naive Bayes (NB) model, Support Vector Machine (SVM) model, eXtreme Gradient Boosting (xGBoost) model, Decision Trees (DT) model, and Logistic Regression (LR) models with AMI patients in MIMIC-IV database. The importance ranking of all variables was obtained by the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method. AMI patients in MIMIC-III databases were used for model evaluation. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to compare the performance of each model.

Results

A total of 3,882 subjects with AMI were enrolled through screening of the MIMIC database, of which 1,098 patients (28.2%) developed AKI. We randomly assigned 70% of the patients in the MIMIC-IV data to the training cohort, which is used to develop models in the training cohort. The remaining 30% is allocated to the testing cohort. Meanwhile, MIMIC-III patient data performs the external validation function of the model. 3,882 patients and 37 predictors were included in the analysis for model construction. The top 5 predictors were serum creatinine, activated partial prothrombin time, blood glucose concentration, platelets, and atrial fibrillation, (SHAP values are 0.670, 0.444, 0.398, 0.389, and 0.381, respectively). In the testing cohort, using top 20 important features, the models of RF, NB, SVM, xGBoost, DT model, and LR obtained AUC of 0.733, 0.739, 0.687, 0.689, 0.663, and 0.677, respectively. Placing RF models of number of different variables on the external validation cohort yielded their AUC of 0.711, 0.754, 0.778, 0.781, and 0.777, respectively.

Conclusion

Machine learning algorithms, particularly the random forest algorithm, have improved the accuracy of risk stratification for AKI in AMI patients and are applied to accurately identify the risk of AKI in AMI patients.
Green Growth Efficiency Evaluation of Major Domestic Oil-Gas Resource-Based Cities——Based on Panel Data of SBM Model and Malmquist-Luenberger Index
Authors: Shi Hongjing , Li Pengtai , Wei Jingzhu , Shi Songbai
Published: September 2022

Based on the panel data of Jinzhou, Panjin, Songyuan, Daqing, Yangzhou, Dongying and other 20 oil and gas resource-based cities from 2010 to 2018, combined with DEA-SBM model and Malmquist-Luenberger index, using DEA-SOLVERPro 5.0 and MaxDEA software. This paper evaluates the green growth efficiency of oil and gas resource-based cities from static and dynamic perspectives.The results show that the average static efficiency of green growth of the main oil and gas resource-based cities in China does not reach 1, there is efficiency loss, and it does not reach Pareto optimum.The static efficiency of green growth of the eastern oil and gas resource-based cities is higher than that of other regions, which is in line with the law of the Environmental Kuznets Curve. The environment has been improved. More than half of the oil and gas resource-based cities have a dynamic efficiency value of green growth greater than 1, and the development trend of green growth is better.
Petrology of continental, OIB-like, basaltic volcanism in Saudi Arabia: Constraints on Cenozoic anorogenic mafic magmatism in the Arabian Shield
Authors: Ali Shehata , Abdallah Shehta E. , Abu Anbar Mohamed M. , Azzaz Sayed A. , Alrashidi Khuloud N.
Published: September 2022

Continental basaltic volcanism in the Arabian Shield of Saudi Arabia has distinctive mineralogical and geochemical features important for understanding the composition of its mantle source and melting conditions. The studied Cenozoic basaltic rocks (19.3–15 Ma) occur at Jabal Al Gharib and Jabal Al Ghuraybayn areas within the Al Qasr quadrangle and southwest of Hail City in Saudi Arabia. They show similar chondrite-normalized REE patterns, suggesting that they were derived from a common mantle source. Their OIB-like features, silica undersaturated nature, and incompatible trace element ratios all reveal an asthenospheric mantle source and argue against crustal contamination process, subduction contribution, and interaction with a lithospheric mantle. Moreover, the elevated compatible trace element concentrations of Ni, Cr, and Co and the low and relatively narrow range of FeOtotal/MgO ratios argue for their nearly primitive nature and indicate that the role of crystal fractionation processes was minor during the evolution of the studied rocks. The estimated temperatures indicate that the sequence of crystallization likely began with olivine at 1,378–1,475°C, then clinopyroxene at 1,137–1,214°C, and soon after followed by plagioclase at 1,096–1,108°C. Plagioclase geo-hygrometers reveal 0.63–1.41 wt% water contents, suggesting crystallization under hydrous conditions. The basalts have geochemical features such as high (K2O + Na2O)/TiO2, Zr/Hf, and Nb/Ta ratios and negative K anomalies which suggest a carbonated peridotite mantle source. Their bulk-rock compositions are consistent with <5% CO2 in their peridotite melts. Highly incompatible elemental ratios supported by REE modeling indicate that they were generated by low degrees (4–10%) of partial melting of a garnet-bearing lherzolite mantle source. The garnet signature in the source region suggests a deeper origin exceeding ∼85 km. The basanite compositions fall within the range of alkaline OIB and intracontinental basalts formed in the rifted region. Moreover, they show geochemical characteristics typical of Cenozoic rift-related Oman basanites and other Arabian intraplate volcanic rocks. The basaltic volcanism in Saudi Arabia seems to be the result of melting asthenospheric mantle source in response to the lithospheric extension that is spatially and temporally linked to Red Sea rifting and triggered anorogenic mafic magmatism due to passive mantle upwelling beneath the Arabian Shield.
Geochemical characteristics and origin of crude oil from Carboniferous volcanic rocks in the Hongche Fault Zone of the Junggar Basin of China
Authors: He Qingbo , Chen Shijia , Wang Jian , Zhao Liping , Ma Zhiwei
Published: September 2022

In recent years, significant advances have been made in the exploration of Carboniferous volcanic reservoirs in the Hongche Fault Zone of the Junggar Basin of China, showing good prospects for further exploration. However, the large variation in the physical properties of crude oil and the complex distribution rule inhibit the one-step exploration. In this study, the PM scale of the biodegradation of crude oil and source of crude oil were studied using experimental methods that target the properties, bulk properties and biomarker compounds of crude oil. The exploration potential of crude oil in this area was analysed, and an accumulation model of crude oil was established. Based on the differences in biomarker compounds and the degree of biodegradation, crude oils were divided into four groups and seven subgroups. Additionally, the analysis of the biomarker compounds of crude oil combined with the hydrocarbon-generation history of source rocks showed that there were at least two periods of oil charging in this area. The first period was the late Triassic, with crude oil derived from the P1f source rock. Owing to the strong tectonic activity during the late Indosinian movement, the oil reservoirs were distributed in the footwall of the fault zone, and the oil in the reservoir exhibited different degrees of biodegradation, forming crude oils of subgroup I1, II and III1. The second period was Cretaceous, during which the P1f source rock was in the natural gas generation stage, and the P2w source rock was at a mature stage. A small part of the crude oil formed by the P2w source rock migrated to the Carboniferous reservoirs and mixed with the crude oil formed by the earlier P1f source rock, resulting in crude oils of subgroups I2, III2, and IV2. The crude oil in the studied area originated from the source rocks in the sag during the peak of oil generation. As tectonic activity approached stability in the latter period, it is speculated that there may be well-preserved primary oil and gas reservoirs in the footwall and slope areas of the fault, making these potential exploration sites.