bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Roles of inflammatory factors in the pathogenesis of hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure and CAR-T therapy
Authors: Wang Yan , Gu Jing , Chen Guanghua , Jiang Yanfeng , Xu Ying , Huang Xiaoping , Gan Jianhe 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) pathogenesis remains unclear. Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) is a serious concomitant disease caused by pathogen infection and immunotherapies, such as HBV infection and chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) therapy respectively while the role of inflammatory factors (IFs) in such patients still remains to be elucidated. This study aims to explore HBV-ACLF pathogenesis according to analyze IFs changes in patients with HBV-ACLF, prophase of HBV-ACLF(pro-HBV-ACLF) and CAR-T therapy, and the relationship between IFs and liver function indexes (LFIs) in patients receiving CAR-T therapy. The clinical records of 68 patients with HBV-ACLF, 30 patients with pro-HBV-ACLF, and 372 patients with hematologic tumors but without abnormal liver function who received CAR-T therapy at the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University were retrospectively examined in this investigation. Serum interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels was significantly increased from healthy controls to pro-HBV-ACLF and to HBV-ACLF. IL-10 was decreased in patients who experienced improvement compared to those whose condition deteriorated. Consistently, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin (TBil) and international normalized ratio (INR) also increased with the development of HBV-ACLF. However, IL-6 did not significantly change from pro-HBV-ACLF to HBV-ACLF and to HBV-ACLF without infection, while IL-6 was even lower in patients with HBV-ACLF without secondary infection than in patients with pro-HBV-ACLF. In addition, Serum levels of IL-2, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and interferon γ (IFN-γ), especially IL-6, increased significantly after CAR-T treatment in tumor patients, while TBIL and ALT levels did not markedly increase. These results elucidate the role of inflammatory factors in the pathogenesis of HBV-ACLF and the side effects of CRS induced by CAR-T therapy.
The cholesterol 24-hydroxylase enzyme, CYP46A1, reduces overexpressed alpha-synuclein proteins in human cellular models of Parkinson’s disease.
Authors: Besnard-Guérin Corinne , Rousselot Lisa , Audouard Emilie , Chali Farah , Piguet Françoise 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

A growing body of evidence suggests a correlation between cholesterol metabolism and the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). We and others have demonstrated that the activation of the cholesterol 24-hydroxylase enzyme, CYP46A1, responsible for converting cholesterol to 24S-hydroxycholesterol (24-OHC) in the brain, is an effective therapeutic strategy for several neurodegenerative diseases as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington’s disease, spinocerebellar ataxia type 3. This approach has demonstrated that overexpression of CYP46A1 can reduce aggregated protein levels, enhance memory and cognitive performance, and improve motor phenotype in animal models. Nevertheless, there is still much to be illuminated regarding the role of CYP46A1 in PD. Alpha-synuclein (alpha-syn), the hallmark pathological protein of PD, exhibits a pronounced affinity for binding to lipid membranes, especially in cholesterol-rich regions and contains a high-affinity cholesterol-binding motif in the 67–78 aa region. In this study, we demonstrate that overexpression of human CYP46A1 leads to a decreased expression of wild-type alpha-syn proteins in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells through the autophagy-lysosomal pathway. Additionally, our findings suggest that CYP46A1 may also decrease the levels of alpha-syn proteins overexpressed with mutations in the cholesterol-binding domain or at the residue A53T, which is associated with familial pathology. Moreover, CYP46A1 retains its functionality in a cellular model of PD associated with GBA1. The gene GBA1 is involved in lipid metabolism, and its deficiency represents the most prevalent genetic factor associated with an elevated risk of PD. These results provide insights into disease pathogenesis and potential therapeutic pathways that could benefit patients with PD.
Cox PH Approach for Determining the Contributing Factors of Infant and Child Mortality in Nigeria: A Regional Analysis
Authors: Haganawiga Kumur John , Pal Surya Kant , Sirohi Anu 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

In low- and middle-income countries, infant and child mortality rates serve as crucial indicators of public health. Despite ongoing efforts to mitigate these rates, Nigeria continues to exhibit some of the highest infant and child mortality rates in Africa. This research delves into the primary factors contributing to these mortality rates across various regions of Nigeria utilizing data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). By employing the Cox proportional hazards (PH) model, this study identified several significant determinants of mortality rates, including family size, birth order, preceding birth interval, maternal education, maternal age, age at first birth, lack of breastfeeding, wealth index, religious affiliation, availability of toilet facilities, and child sex. Among these factors, lack of breastfeeding emerged as the most critical determinant, demonstrating the highest hazard ratio. These findings elucidate key factors influencing infant and child mortality, providing valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare professionals to devise targeted interventions to reduce mortality rates in Nigeria.
Therapeutic Efficacy of Selenium Pre-treatment in Mitigating Cadmium-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Heuer Rachael M. , Falagan-Lotsch Priscila , Okutsu Jessica , Deperalto Madison , Koop Rebekka R. , Umeh Olaedo G. , Guevara Gabriella A. , Noor Md Imran , Covington Myles A. , Shelton Delia S. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases are a rampant public health threat. Environmental contaminants, such as Cadmium (Cd), a toxic metal, have been linked to increased risk for cardiovascular diseases. Given that human exposure to Cd is increasing overtime, there is a need to develop new therapies to ameliorate Cd toxicity. Selenium (Se), an essential trace element, has been proposed to rescue the effects of Cd toxicity, with mixed effects. Se's narrow therapeutic window necessitates precise dosing to avoid toxicity. Here, we assessed the effects of various waterborne Cd and Se concentrations and sequences on cardiac function using zebrafish (Danio rerio). We showed that Cd induced pericardial edemas and modified heart rates in a concentration-dependent manner. To identify the therapeutic range of Se for Cd-induced cardiotoxicity, zebrafish embryos were treated with 0, 10, 50, 100, 150, or 200 μg/L Se for 1-4 days prior to exposure to Cd at 2.5, and 5 μg/L. We found that a 50 µg/L Se pre-treatment prior to Cd at 2.5 μg/L, but not at 5 μg/L, reduced the prevalence of pericardial edemas and ameliorated Cd-induced bradycardia in zebrafish. Embryos exposed to 10 and 50 μg/L of Se showed typical heart morphology, whereas other Se-exposed and Se-deficient fish presented pericardial edemas. Longer Se pre-treatment durations led to fewer incidences of pericardial edemas. Overall, this study highlights the importance of optimizing Se concentration and pre-treatment periods to harness its protective effects against Cd-induced cardiotoxicity. These findings provide insights into potential therapeutic strategies for reducing Cd-related cardiovascular damage in humans.
Association of Blood Urea Nitrogen to Glucose Ratio with 365-Day Mortality in Intensive Care Unit Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Du Shenghua , Su Ning , Yu Zhaoxian , Li Junhong , Jiang Yingyi , Wang Juan , Hu Jinxing 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This retrospective research examined the connection between the blood urea nitrogen to glucose ratio (BGR) and 365-day mortality in ICU patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 1-4. The study utilized data from 6,380 patients in the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV version 2.2 (MIMIC-IV v2.2), taking into account confounding factors such as demographics, vital signs, laboratory indicators, and comorbidities. The study employed both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, stratified by BGR quartiles. Additionally, restricted cubic spline regression and inflection point analysis were used to explore the linear relationship between BGR and 365-day mortality, while Kaplan-Meier curve analysis observed mortality changes under different BGR stratifications. Subgroup and mediating effect analyses were performed to evaluate the robustness of BGR's effect on 365-day mortality. The study found that a cumulative 365-day mortality rate of 34.2% among CKD stages 1-4 patients, with a 2.43-fold increase in the risk of death associated with BGR and at least a 44% increase in the risk of death for each unit increase in BGR (P = 0.022). A significant nonlinear relationship was identified, showing a stepwise change in the risk of death, with a marked increase in the slope of the curve for BGR values below 0.52 and above 0.9 (P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses indicated interactions between BGR and factors such as age, sepsis, first-day antibiotic use, and cerebrovascular disease (P < 0.05). In conclusion, this study confirms that BGR is a significant and stable predictor of 1-year mortality risk in patients with CKD stages 1-4. Interventions aimed at timely adjustment, correction of metabolic imbalances, reduction of inflammation, and management of BGR levels are beneficial for reducing mortality in this patient population.
A novel photothermal energy storage phase change material with high stability and enthalpy
Authors: Xiong Shenghua , Shi Yanlong , Liu Changhui , Li Gang , Yang Yunyun 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

In this study, stearic acid (CA-SA) was used as phase change material (PCM), carbon nanotubes and nitriding (CNT, BN) as support materials to prepare CNT-BN-SA-1 composites by vacuum impregnation. According to the results of the thermal conductivity of CNT-BN-SA-1, the maximum thermal conductivity of CNT-BN-SA-1 is 0.83 Wm/k when the CNT-BN content reaches 15 wt%. The surface morphology, heat storage capacity and reliability of CNT-BN-SA-1 were systematically studied. The melting temperature (ΔTm) of CNT-BN-SA-1 is 51.83°C and the latent calorific value is 143.5 J/g. CNT-BN-SA-1 still exhibits good latent heat capacity after 1000 heat treatment cycles, and its latent heat after cycling is 147.3 J/g. After a high temperature of 100°C, CNT-BN-SA-1 still retains a good solid shape. The results show that CNT-BN-SA-1 has high latent heat, reliability, and excellent CSP energy storage capabilities. It has great application potential in the field of FSPCMs. This method provides a certain reference for the preparation of phase change composites.
Resilient and Sustainable PD-(1+PI) Controller for a Smart grid in Uncertain Environments
Authors: Rath Umesh Prasad , Padhy Sasmita , Sahu Preeti Ranjan , Khadanga Rajendra Kumar , Prusty B Rajanarayan , Panda Sidhartha 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Conventional power systems become modern and smart by integrating renewable power sources and devices with two-way communication, making the system more complicated. The uncertain and unpredictable behavior of renewable sources creates an uncertain environment where frequency and power imbalance occur in the smart grid. Therefore, this paper proposed a novel smart grid frequency regulation controller using a Parasitism Predation Algorithm (PPA)-based PD-(1+PI) controller. It also investigated the performance of the PPA-optimized PID for smart grid frequency regulation. In comparison to results obtained from PPA-based PI, PID, PI-PD controller, PD-PI controller, and standard PID controller, it is also shown that PPA-based PD-(1+PI) controller is particularly effective in regulating the frequency in various uncertain conditions. The frequency stability 1 of the smart grid with the suggested PD-(1+PI) controller is exhibited through bode analysis. Further, the adaptive behavior of the PD-(1+PI) controller has been showcased through the sensitivity analysis due to the inconsistencies in the parameters of the smart grid.
Experimental study on physical and mechanical properties of MICP- reinforced uranium tailings combined with modified jute fibers
Authors: He Gui-Cheng , Tang Meng-Yuan , Li Yong-Mei , Pan Yu-Xiang , Gui Rong 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) is a promising methods for filling and cementing of tailings, offering the advantage of efficient and cost-effective performance. This research employs modified jute fibers combined with MICP to enhance the physical and mechanical properties of uranium tailings as filling materials, and to address the shortcomings of uneven reinforcement and brittle failure of MICP technology. The effect of hydrothermal treatment duration, fiber length, fiber content, and cementing solution concentration on the unconfined compressive strength of MICP-reinforced uranium tailings with different grades was investigated by orthogonal experiments, and the optimal bio-cement parameters were determined. The crystal types of calcium carbonate formed by modified jute fibers combined with MICP were characterized, and the effect mechanisms of modified jute fibers on the mechanical properties of MICP-reinforced uranium tailings were investigated. The results demonstrate that the surface roughness of jute fiber increases after hydrothermal treatment duration, thereby creating increased areas for microbial attachment and reproduction. This results in an increase in the production and uniformity of calcium carbonate in uranium tailings, as well as an improvement in the unconfined compressive strength of the uranium tailings. This is achieved by promoting the growth, reproduction, migration and fixation of microorganisms. The physical and mechanical properties of uranium tailings reinforced with modified jute fiber combined with MICP are optimal when applying uranium tailings with gradation number A3, a cementing solution concentration of 1.5 mol/L, a jute fiber content of 3%, a jute fiber length of 20 mm, and a hydrothermal treatment duration of 2h.
Cofilin linked to GluN2B subunits of NMDA receptors is required for behavioral sensitization by changing the dendritic spines of neurons in the caudate and putamen after repeated nicotine exposure
Authors: Kim Sunghyun , Sohn Sumin , Choe Eun Sang 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Nicotine dependence is associated with changes in glutamatergic neurotransmission in the caudate and putamen (CPu) of the forebrain. Changes in the structure of dendritic spines in the glutamate synapses after nicotine exposure induce habitual behaviors such as smoking. The present study investigated the hypothesis that cofilin, an actin-binding protein that is linked to the GluN2B subunits of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors regulates the morphology of dendritic spines in the neurons of the CPu after repeated exposure to nicotine.
Results
Subcutaneous injections of nicotine for seven consecutive days (0.3 mg/kg/day) decreased the phosphorylation of cofilin while increasing the formation of thin spines and filopodia in the dendrites of medium spiny neurons (MSN) in the CPu of rats. Bilateral intra-CPu infusion of the cofilin inhibitor, cytochalasin D (12.5 µg/µL/side), restored the thin spines and filopodia from mushroom types after repeated exposure to nicotine. Similar results were obtained from the bilateral intra-CPu infusion of the selective GluN2B subunit antagonist, Ro 25-6981 (4 µM/µL/side). Bilateral intra-CPu infusion of cytochalasin D that interferes with the actin-cofilin interaction attenuated the repeated nicotine-induced increase in locomotor sensitization in rats.
Conclusions
These findings suggest that active cofilin alters the structure of spine heads from mushroom to thin spine/filopodia by potentiating actin turnover, contributing to behavioral sensitization after nicotine exposure.
Hybrid DIVEMA/PLGA nanoparticles as the potential drug delivery system
Authors: Gorshkova Marina , Vanchugova Lyudmila , Osipova Nadezhda , Nikitin Alexey , Kotova Julia , Kovalenko Elena , Ermolenko Yulia , Malinovskaya Julia , Kovshova Tatyana , Gelperina Svetlana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The hybrid nanoparticles (NP) consisting of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and polyanionic copolymer of divinyl ether with maleic anhydride (DIVEMA) were prepared by the high pressure homogenization – solvent evaporation technique or by nanoprecipitation and evaluated by physicochemical and spectroscopic methods. The nanoparticles formed by PLGA (MM 7–17 kDa) and DIVEMA (MM 20 kDa or 80 kDa) at mass ratios from 1.2:1 to 8:1 had the hydrodynamic diameter of ~ 200 nm, negative zeta potentials of -33 to -40 mV, and were stable upon freeze-drying. The presence of DIVEMA in the PLGA nanoparticles improved their properties as the drug carrier. Thus, loading of the model drug doxorubicin was increased 2-fold and its release time was considerably extended. The enhanced surface functionality of the hybrid nanoparticles was demonstrated by a ~ 5-fold higher content of the surface-conjugated PEGylated bovine serum albumin as compared with the plain PLGA nanoparticles. The DIVEMA/PLGA NP exhibited low cytotoxicity and good hemocompatibility. This is the first study that describes the DIVEMA/PLGA NP and demonstrates their potential as the drug delivery system.
Studying the genomics of natural and restored populations of Acropora palmata is crucial for understanding their genetic diversity and the impact of conservation efforts
Authors: Alvarado-Cerón Viridiana , Prada Carlos , Gómez-Corrales Matías , Padilla-Souza Aurora Claudia , León-Pech María Geovana , Rivera-Madrid Renata , Arias-González Jesús Ernesto 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Coral reef ecosystems in the Caribbean are on the brink of ecological collapse, largely due to the significant decline in once-abundant populations of Acropora species. For this reason, Acropora palmata is now classified as critically endangered by the IUCN. In response, restoration programs are in place, but assessment of the genomic diversity of colonies used for restoration has lagged. We studied the genome-wide variation of A. palmata using a low-coverage whole genome approach in Quintana Roo, Mexico. We collected over a hundred colonies across reefs spanning over 150 km, including one reef under active restoration efforts. Our analysis based on thousands of genome-wide markers, revealed high levels of genomic diversity with low levels of clonality. Remarkably, the reef under restoration showed genetic diversity comparable to the natural populations, while just one reef presented decreased genetic variability. Our results indicate gene flow among populations with subtle patterns of genetic differentiation, suggesting limiting geographic isolation. We demonstrate that coral restoration from naturally occurring fragments and sexual recruits encompasses sufficient genetic variation on par with that of natural populations. Therefore, we ascertain that current restoration efforts in Quintana Roo include enough genetic diversity to maintain nurseries and provide a viable long-term approach to restoring natural populations of decimated Acroporids in Mesoamerican reefs.
A Roadmap from the Bond Strength to the Grain-Boundary Energies and Macro Strength of Metals
Authors: Gao Wang , Li Xin , Wu Hao , Jiang Qing 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Correlating the bond strength with the strength of metals is crucial for understanding mechanical properties and designing multi-principal-element alloys (MPEAs). Motivated by the role of grain boundaries in the strength of metals, we introduce a predictive model to determine the grain-boundary energies and strength of metals from the cohesive energy and atomic radius. This scheme originates from the d-band characteristics and broken-bond spirit of tight-binding models, and demonstrates that the repulsive/attractive effects play different roles in the variation of bond strength for different metals. Importantly, our framework not only applies to both pure metals and MPEAs, but also unravels the distinction of the bond strength caused by elemental compositions, lattice structures, high-entropy, and amorphous effects. These findings build a novel picture between bond strength grain-boundary energies and the strength of metals by using easily accessible material properties and provide a robust method for the design of high-strength alloys.
Immunostimulatory hydrogel with synergistic blockage of glutamine metabolism and chemodynamic therapy for postoperative management of glioblastoma
Authors: Li Junbai , Guo Yiran , Jiang Tianhe , Liang Sen , Wang Anhe , Li Jieling , Li Qi , Yin Jian , Bai Shuo , Jia Yi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) stands as one of the most lethal malignant brain tumors affecting the central nervous system. Post-surgery, patients encounter daunting challenges like tumor recurrence, increased intracranial pressure due to cavitation, and constraints linked with immediate postoperative oral chemotherapy. Herein, we construct an injected peptide gel with in situ immunostimulatory functions to harmonize the regulation of glutamine metabolism and chemodynamic therapy in tackling the postoperative obstacles. The methodology entails crafting injectable gel scaffolds with short peptide molecules, incorporating the glutaminase inhibitor CB-839 and copper peptide self-assembled particles (Cu-His NPs) renowned for their chemodynamic therapy (CDT) efficacy. By fine-tuning glutamic acid production via metabolic pathways, our system not only heightens the therapeutic prowess of copper peptide particles in CDT but also escalates intracellular oxidative stress. This dual mechanism culminates in augmented immunogenic cell death (ICD) within glioblastoma multiforme cells and improves a conducive immune microenvironment. Anchored on the tenets of metabolic reprogramming, this treatment strategy showcases substantial promise in significantly curtailing GBM tumor recurrence, prolonging median survival in murine models.
REASSENTAMENTOS EM MOÇAMBIQUE:
Authors: Valia Isidoro Jacob , Matos Elmer Agostinho Carlos de 
Published: July 2024

Com base numa revisão de literatura, o artigo aborda as principais ideias de autores que discutem o conceitos de território e identidade. Partimos do princípio que qualquer processo de territorialização implica, ao mesmo tempo, um processo de produção de identidades. As variáveis de conceituação do território, tais como funcionalidade, apropriação, simbolismo e relações de poder são analisadas de modo a mostrar como se cruzam com o conceito de identidade. Numa última fase, buscam-se exemplos práticos do processo de reassetamento para ilustrar como decorre o processo de desterritorialização e (re)territorrialização e, consequentemente, como são produzidas novas identidades.