Extensive Distribution Research Articles

Enhancing mountainous permafrost mapping by leveraging a rock glacier inventory in northeastern Tibetan Plateau

ABSTRACT Our understanding of permafrost distribution is still limited, particularly in mountainous areas where highly heterogeneous environments and a lack of reliable field data tend to prevail. The extensive distribution of rock glaciers in the Qilian Mountains, located in the northeastern Tibetan Plateau, offers the opportunity to develop a novel approach for permafrost mapping in mountainous regions. In this study, a total of 1,530 rock glacier records were combined with in situ data to drive machine learning models for estimating permafrost presence. Three machine learning algorithms were adopted, and their accuracies were assessed in both mountains and plains by comparing the mapped permafrost to reserved field data as well as other published permafrost datasets. Among the algorithms tested, the CatBoost model presented the highest accuracy, with an overall accuracy of 83.3%. The model was thus chosen to produce a 250-m resolution permafrost zonation index (PZI) map, which identified a total area of 73.1 × 103 km2 permafrost in the Qilian Mountains, accounting for 39.1% of the area. The map also presented higher accuracy than other published permafrost maps. This study demonstrated that rock glacier records coupled with gradient-boosting machine-learning algorithms can help improve permafrost mapping, especially in the most challenging mountainous permafrost areas.

Significant spatial gradients in new particle formation frequency in Greece during summer

Abstract. Extensive continuous particle number size distribution measurements took place during two summers (2020 and 2021) at 11 sites in Greece for the investigation of the frequency and the spatial extent of new particle formation (NPF). The study area is characterized by high solar intensity and fast photochemistry and has moderate to low fine particulate matter levels during the summer. The average PM2.5 levels were relatively uniform across the examined sites. The NPF frequency during summer varied from close to zero in the southwestern parts of Greece to more than 60 % in the northern, central, and eastern regions. The mean particle growth rate for each station varied between 3.4 and 8 nm h−1, with an average rate of 5.7 nm h−1. At most of the sites there was no statistical difference in the condensation sink between NPF event and non-event days, while lower relative humidity was observed during the events. The high-NPF-frequency sites in the north and northeast were in close proximity to both coal-fired power plants (high emissions of SO2) and agricultural areas with some of the highest ammonia emissions in the country. The southern and western parts of Greece, where NPF was infrequent, were characterized by low ammonia emissions, while moderate levels of sulfuric acid were estimated (107 molec. cm−3) in the west. Although the emissions of biogenic volatile organic compounds were higher in western and southern sectors, they did not appear to lead to enhanced frequency of NPF. The infrequent events at these sites occurred when the air masses had spent a few hours over areas with agricultural activities and thus elevated ammonia emissions. Air masses arriving at the sites directly from the sea were not connected with atmospheric NPF. These results support the hypothesis that ammonia and/or amines limit new particle formation in the study area.

Influence of medium modifications (optimization) on high nematicidal activity of the fermentation broth of Clostridium beijerinckii.

Introduction: The nematode species Meloidogyne incognita has been responsible for significant financial losses within the agricultural sector. Nematophagous bacteria, characterised by their extensive distribution and broad spectrum of hosts, exhibit remarkable efficacy as natural antagonists against nematodes. Sneb518 (Clostridium beijerinckii) fermentation broth displayed substantial biocontrol activity against M. incognita in previous research. Optimizing fermentation conditions is a fundamental technique for dramatically enhancing end product performance. There has been no such study conducted yet on enhancing the nematicidal activities of Sneb518 (Clostridium beijerinckii) fermentation using response surface methodology (RSM). Methods: The influence of strain Sneb518 fermentation media and conditions on nematicidal activity was examined using the three-factor technique and a Plackett-Burman design, and the interaction between various fermentation factors was examined using a Box-Behnken design. The present study employed response surface methodology (RSM) to examine and enhance the nematicidal activity of Sneb518 culture filtrates by identifying and optimising the influential components. Results: Glucose, peanut cake flour, and potassium chloride as carbon, nitrogen, and inorganic salts displayed considerably increased nematicidal potential in the present study. Furthermore, the corrected mortality of J2 ranged from 52.24% to 91.15% when utilizing the Box-Behnken design. These findings clearly support the application of RSM for medium optimization. Moreover, the outcomes of the validation experiment corresponded to the model predictions. Discussion: This research has enhanced the biocontrol ability of C. beijerinckii to control M. incognita and this research has led to the advancement of new biocontrol agents.

Morphology and novel classification of proximal humeral fractures.

Background: The morphology of proximal humeral fractures (PHFs) is complex, and the fixation and selection of implants need to be guided by the fracture type and classification, which requires an accurate understanding of the fracture line. This study had three purposes. 1) Define and analyze the fracture lines and morphological features of all types PHFs by three-dimensional (3D) mapping technology. 2) Determine the osteotomy position of the biomechanical model of the PHFs according to the fracture heat map. 3) Based on the analysis of the pathological morphology and distribution of a large number of consecutive cases of PHFs, propose a novel classification of PHFs. Methods: We retrospectively collected 220 cases of PHFs and generated a 3D fracture map and heat map based on computed tomography (CT) imaging. Through analysis of the fracture morphology of the 220 PHFs, a novel classification was proposed. The primary criterion for staging was the continuity between the humeral head and the greater tuberosity and lesser tuberosity, and the secondary criterion was the relationship between the humeral head segment and the humeral shaft. Results: The fracture line was primarily found around the metaphyseal zone of region of the surgical neck, with the most extensive distribution being below the larger tuberosity and on the posterior medial side of the epiphysis. We suggest that the osteotomy gap should be immediately (approximately 5-10mm) below the lower edge of the articular surface. The most common type of fracture was type I3 (33 cases, 15.0%), followed by type IV3 fracture (23 cases, 10.4%), and type III2 fracture (22 cases, 10.0%). Interobserver and intraobserver reliability analysis for the fracture classification revealed a k value (95% confidence interval) of 0.639 (0.57-0.71) and 0.841, P < 0.01, respectively. Conclusion: In this study, the fracture line and morphological characteristics of PHFs were clarified in detail by 3D mapping technique. In addition, a new classification method was proposed by analysis of the morphological characteristics of 220 PHFs, A two-part fracture model for PHFs is also proposed.

Taxonomic inventory and distributions of Chenopodiaceae (Amaranthaceae s.l.) in Orenburg Region, Russia.

Orenburg Region is located in the South Urals, mostly in the steppe zone and is characterised by various landscapes suitable for many Chenopodiaceae. The species of Chenopodiaceae are present in all major plant communities (saline vegetation, steppes, on limestone, chalk and sand, and as degraded or ruderal communities). In the steppe zone, many native subshrubby species (Atriplexcana, Caroxylonlaricinum, Suaedaphysophora) playing a crucial role in semi-deserts (known as southern steppes in the recent Russian literature) located southwards of Orenburg Region are locally found, and several annuals (Salicorniaperennans, Suaeda spp.) are most common dominants in plant communities. Some typical semi-desert species (Kalidiumfoliatum, Bassiahyssopifolia, Sodafoliosa, Spirobassiahirsuta) are found in the easternmost part of the region. We compiled a checklist of Chenopodiaceae in Orenburg Region, with two new records (Chenopodiumvirgatum, Corispermumlaxiflorum), based on our critical revision, comprehensive inventory of herbarium specimens and documented observations and field research. In total, we report 76 species in the Region, which is the third-highest number of the Chenopodiaceae species compared with other administrative territories of European Russia, North Caucasus and West Siberia. Alien and native taxa are distinguished. Zonal patterns of species distributions are confirmed. A preliminary conservation status is proposed for each native species. Three species are recommended for exclusion from the Red Data Book of Orenburg Region: Petrosimoniatriandra (because of its extensive distribution), Kalidiumfoliatum and Anabasissalsa (because of the lack of actual threat to their populations). Arthrophytumlehmannianum and Salsolarosacea are considered threatened (Vulnerable) because of their restricted occurrence and population size and because their localities are under anthropogenic pressure. Atriplexhortensis, Atriplexrosea, Chenopodiumacuminatum, C.karoi, C.praetericola, C.vulvaria, Climacopteraaffinis, C.crassa, Halimocnemiskarelinii, Salsolapaulsenii and Xylosalsolaarbuscula are excluded from the checklist, based on various reasons as discussed in the paper. Point distribution maps are provided for each species. Agriophyllumpungens (Vahl) Link is accepted as the correct authorship instead of "M.Bieb. ex C.A.Mey."

Evaluation of Sylhet sadar upazila's geological formation for groundwater availability

There is sparse of hydrogeological data and insufficient knowledge in many areas of the country reliant on groundwater. Given the exponential expansion in groundwater consumption in recent years, it is imperative to comprehend how groundwater reservoirs respond to both natural and anthropogenic situations. Because of its extensive and unequal distribution, groundwater must be carefully studied in some locations to preserve this precious resource. This study was carried out to evaluate and assess the geological formation and some relevant parameters to enrich the geotechnical information of the study area for future use of groundwater. The soil samples used for the study were obtained from 8 SPT boreholes at 0 to 800 ft.depth at various work stations by percussion drilling method and all laboratory tests were conducted by BS 1377. Drilled soil sample with water was collected in a Polythene bag with a permanent marker pen at 20 ft.intervals of the drilling layer to perform a sieve analysis test. Percentage fines decreased with an increase in boring depth and curves were closely packed homogeneity. The quantity of free silt and clay progressively reduced and coarsen materials were formed with the increase in boring depth. Results show that soil particle sizes increase with boringdepth up to the upper surface of it. However, the area is suitable in terms of groundwater availability.

Lexical Characterization of Ancient and Modern Chinese Combined with Semantic Association Network Modeling

Abstract This paper explores the linguistic features of ancient and modern Chinese, focuses on capturing the knowledge of the relevant domains of ancient and contemporary Chinese using semantic models, and carries out the corresponding semantic resource extraction and semantic representation through the resource expression mechanism in the framework of the Semantic Association Network Model (SANM), and then analyzes the historical evolution of the lexicalization patterns of the Chinese language and the linguistic features of the Chinese language in different periods. In the historical evolution of Chinese lexicalization patterns, it is found that the distribution of lexicalization patterns of ancient Chinese table-cutting action lexical items is [action+object] &gt; [action+method] &gt; [action result] &gt; [action+tool], and the distribution of lexicalization patterns of modern Chinese table-cutting action lexical items is [action+method] &gt; [action+tool] &gt; [action+result] &gt; [action+object]. The linguistic features of different periods show that all networks have small-world properties and scale-free properties, and the statistical parameters of the networks in each period are relatively close to each other, with the modern network having the most significant C (8.59) and the smallest L (0.92) and γ (0.40). Ancient and modern Chinese words and phrases with relational word collocations in the interval [0,23] have the most extensive and densest distribution of relational words. These data present the similarities and differences between linguistic features between ancient and modern Chinese, which is significant for studying ancient and modern Chinese.

Plants and global warming: challenges and strategies for a warming world.

In this review, we made an attempt to create a holistic picture of plant response to a rising temperature environment and its impact by covering all aspects from temperature perception to thermotolerance. This comprehensive account describing the molecular mechanisms orchestrating these responses and potential mitigation strategies will be helpful for understanding the impact of global warming on plant life. Organisms need to constantly recalibrate development and physiology in response to changes in their environment. Climate change-associated global warming is amplifying the intensity and periodicity of these changes. Being sessile, plants are particularly vulnerable to variations happening around them. These changes can cause structural, metabolomic, and physiological perturbations, leading to alterations in the growth program and in extreme cases, plant death. In general, plants have a remarkable ability to respond to these challenges, supported by an elaborate mechanism to sense and respond to external changes. Once perceived, plants integrate these signals into the growth program so that their development and physiology can be modulated befittingly. This multifaceted signaling network, which helps plants to establish acclimation and survival responses enabled their extensive geographical distribution. Temperature is one of the key environmental variables that affect all aspects of plant life. Over the years, our knowledge of how plants perceive temperature and how they respond to heat stress has improved significantly. However, a comprehensive mechanistic understanding of the process still largely elusive. This review explores how an increase in the global surface temperature detrimentally affects plant survival and productivity and discusses current understanding of plant responses to high temperature (HT) and underlying mechanisms. We also highlighted potential resilience attributes that can be utilized to mitigate the impact of global warming.

Brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) as potential reservoirs of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Heilongjiang Province, China: high prevalence, genetic heterogeneity, and potential risk for zoonotic transmission.

Enterocytozoon bieneusi, an obligatory intracellular fungus, is prevalent among animals and humans. Due to their close interaction with humans and their extensive regional distribution, brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) are important pathogen reservoirs. To assess the zoonotic transmission potential of E. bieneusi, a molecular investigation was conducted on 817 R. norvegicus from four cities in Heilongjiang Province, China. A total of 817 R. norvegicus were collected from four cities in Heilongjiang Province, China. The genotyping of E. bieneusi was conducted through PCR amplification of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA)'s internal transcribed spacer (ITS) segments. Phylogenetic and similarity analyses were used to examine zoonotic potential and genetic characteristics of the E. bieneusi-positive specimens. Among the 817 R. norvegicus, the total infection rate was 33.3% (272/817). Seventy-five genotypes were identified, including 14 known genotypes D (n = 167), A (n = 15), HLJ-CP1 (n = 12), WR8 (n = 6), EbpC (n = 2), BEB6 (n = 1), CS-4 (n = 1), CHPM1 (n = 1), Henan-II (n = 1), HNH-22 (n = 1), HNH-25 (n = 1), I (n = 1), JLD-XI (n = 1), SDD5 (n = 1), and 61 novel genotypes designated as SHWR1 (n = 10), SYSWR1 (n = 2), and SHWR2 to SHWR17, SYSWR2 to SYSWR36 and QTHWR1 to QTHWR8 (n = 1, each). Moreover, 10 samples exhibited mixed genotype infections, including D + A (n = 3), D + EbpC (n = 1), D + HLJ-CP1 (n = 1), D + SHWR1 (n = 1), D + SHWR16 (n = 1), D + SHWR17 (n = 1), SDD5 + WR8 (n = 1), and CS-4 + SYSWR36 (n = 1). Phylogenetic analysis grouped the genotypes into three main groups: group 1 (n = 67), group 2 (n = 5), and group 9 (n = 3). The high prevalence and genetic diversity of E. bieneusi in Heilongjiang Province's R. norvegicus imply that these animals spread the pathogen. The R. norvegicus that E. bieneusi carries can spread zoonotic disease, making it a serious hazard to the local human population. Therefore, it is imperative to raise awareness about the dangers posed by R. norvegicus and implement measures to reduce their population to prevent environmental contamination.

Origin-destination matrix estimation in Solo agglomeration with the maximum likelihood method

The movement of vehicles is one form of fulfilling community needs. High vehicle movement can cause transportation problems, one of which is congestion. To overcome this problem, planning a transportation system is essential. Using the EMME/4 program, we analyzed the distribution of movements in the Origin Destination Matrix (MAT) using a gravity model. Using the User’s Equilibrium method, the study aims to determine the parameter β, data validity value (R2), and movement patterns. The research study area was carried out in Solo Agglomeration with 19 zones. The results indicate a β value of 0.0796 (R2 = 0.817), with an estimated Solo Agglomeration movement of 34428 passenger-car-units per hour in 2023. The most extensive distribution of movements occurred within internal movements, making up 62.85%, while the smallest were external-external movements, accounting only for 4.01%.

THE SIMULATION MODEL OF AN AUTONOMOUS ENERGY SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR HIGHWAY INFRASTRUCTURE OBJECTS

The presence of a centralized power supply with the appropriate infrastructure and an extensive distribution network with significant technological losses not only causes increased risks, but also calls into question the quality and reliability of the energy supply of remote objects. The use of small power plants based on renewable energy sources can solve the problem of power supply of transport infrastructure objects (public transport stops, pedestrian crossings, traffic control elements, etc.). However, the expediency of using one or another energy source requires simulation modeling of the parameters of these power supply systems. The purpose of this study is to develop a simulation model of the autonomous energy supply system of road infrastructure objects and to check its functioning in real conditions. The article describes the structural simulation model and presents the characteristics of its components. The order of functioning of the constituent elements and the peculiarities of their interaction are given. Experimental modeling of the dependences of the output power of the photovoltaic module on the voltage maintained at its output was carried out, and the obtained results were summarized. The developed model makes it possible to implement the mode of maintaining maximum performance thanks to the introduction of feedback to control the value of the input voltage of the converter, which is compared with the calculated (set) value of the voltage, calculated from the data of the actual load current and short-circuit current of the photovoltaic module for different values of light flux. The result of the comparison, with the appropriate sign, is sent to the proportional-integral regulator, the output control effect of which is the regulation of the output voltage of the converter and, related to it, the charging current of the battery, which, therefore, leads to a change in the input current and ensures the maintenance of the set voltage at solar cell outputs. Under this condition, its output current is directly proportional to the amount of solar radiation. It is also established that the selection of the minimum required capacity of the photovoltaic panel must be carried out taking into account the most unfavorable scenario regarding weather conditions and the season of the year in order to ensure the maximum charge of the battery.

Glycoprotein 2 as a gut gate keeper for mucosal equilibrium between inflammation and immunity.

Glycoprotein 2 (GP2) is a widely distributed protein in the digestive tract, contributing to mucosal barrier maintenance, immune homeostasis, and antigen-specific immune response, while also being linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pathogenesis. This review sheds light on the extensive distribution of GP2 within the gastrointestinal tract and its intricate interplay with the immune system. Furthermore, the significance of GP2 autoantibodies in diagnosing and categorizing IBD is underscored, alongside the promising therapeutic avenues for modulating GP2 to regulate immunity and maintain mucosal balance.

Characterization of the physiological parameters, effective components, and transcriptional profiles of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. Under pH stress

Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. is a traditional Chinese medicine with extensive distribution and robust adaptability, but comprehensive research on its acid and alkali resistance is presently lacking. This study aimed to analyze the effects of 5 months of continuous pH stress on the physiological and photosynthetic parameters of P. multiflorum, and the content of effective components. Results revealed that pH stress significantly influenced the normal growth, physiological functions, and photosynthetic indicators of P. multiflorum. At soil pH 4.5, the tubers of P. multiflorum exhibited the highest levels of 2,3,5,4′-tetrahydroxy stilbene-2-O-β-d-glucoside (THSG) and total anthraquinones at 5.41% and 0.38%, respectively. However, increased soil pH significantly reduced the content of THSG and total anthraquinones. Reference-free transcriptome analysis was further conducted on P. multiflorum treated at pH 4.5 and 9.5, generating a total of 47,305 unigenes with an N50 of 2118 bp, of which 31,058 (65.65%) were annotated. Additionally, 2472 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Among them, 17 DEGs associated with the biosynthesis of THSG and anthraquinones were screened. A comprehensive analysis of differential gene expression and effective component content demonstrated a significant positive correlation between the content of effective components and the 14 DEGs’ expression but a negative correlation with soil pH. This study highlighted the influence of varying soil pH values on the effective component content of P. multiflorum. Specific acidic conditions proved beneficial for the synthesis and accumulation of THSG and total anthraquinones in P. multiflorum, thereby enhancing the quality of the medicinal material.

Recent land use and land cover pressures on Iberian peatlands

Iberian peatlands have been severely affected by land use and land cover (LULC) changes. Despite these pressures, some peatlands persist in the region, although their susceptibility to LULC change remains poorly understood. This study presents the most detailed and extensive distribution data for Iberian peatlands to date and analyzes the dynamics and drivers of LULC in Iberian peatlands and their surrounding areas. We compiled peatland records from various sources and used Corine Land Cover Change layers to determine LULC shifts in their surrounding areas for 1990, 2000, 2006, 2012, and 2018. Environmental and socioeconomic variables were used to create Boosted Regression Tree models explaining spatial variations in the mean percentage of changed area. Analysis of 270 peatland locations in the Iberian Peninsula revealed that forests and seminatural areas constituted over 80% of the peatland’s surroundings. Agricultural areas expanded the most, except between 2006 and 2012 when the artificial areas showed more gains. While most surrounding areas experienced an average change of 0%-9.51% of the total area, between 1990 and 2018, lowland peatlands (littoral and sublittoral) suffered more intense changes (9.51% to 38.43%). Our models showed that only elevation and agricultural area density were relevant predictors of the spatial distribution of changes. Upland Iberian peatlands showed lower susceptibility to LULC change, while lowland peatlands underwent remarkable transformations. This study substantially expands previous knowledge about the distribution and conservation needs of these ecosystems in the Iberian Peninsula, especially those in littoral and sublittoral lowlands.

Pharmacology of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors: Implications for Patients with Kidney Diseases.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) have introduced a significant advancement in cancer management. These compounds are administered orally, and their absorption holds a pivotal role in determining their variable efficacy. They exhibit extensive distribution within the body, binding strongly to both plasma and tissue proteins. Often reliant on efflux and influx transporters, TKI undergo primary metabolism by intestinal and hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes, with nonkidney clearance being predominant. Owing to their limited therapeutic window, many TKI display considerable intraindividual and interindividual variability. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of the clinical pharmacokinetics of TKI, detailing their interactions with drug transporters and metabolic enzymes, while discussing potential clinical implications. The prevalence of kidney conditions, such as AKI and CKD, among patients with cancer is explored in their effect on TKI pharmacokinetics. Finally, the potential nephrotoxicity associated with TKI is also examined.

Assessing road network resilience in disaster areas from a complex network perspective: A real-life case study from China

Recently, resilience assessment has become a significant research topic, as it is crucial for regional disaster mitigation. It is important to identify road network resilience characteristics to improve regional traffic and handling capacity during emergencies, which ensures regional transport safety management and sustainable development. In this paper, a complex-network-based resilience assessment framework coupled with resilience curve characteristics, such as vulnerability, survivability, adaptability, responsiveness and resilience, was established. Typical Chinese regions with the most extensive disaster distribution were selected to reproduce real historical disaster scenarios for comparative analysis and research. The results showed that 1) the process of the change in the resilience of the road network during a disaster conforms to the characteristics of the resilience curve; 2) dense, homogeneous networks are more resilient than sparse, clustered networks; 3) road sections with more redundancy and substitutability are more resilient; and 4) the severity of the decline in traffic network performance in disaster areas is related to the attributes of road segments and network interference methods.

Paleoweathering and Detrital Provenance of Balangbaru Shale, in South Sulawesi

Sulawesi Island, known for its geological complexity, offers a unique opportunity for researchers to investigate further into sedimentary basins particularly in South Sulawesi area. The Cretaceous Balangbaru Shale is one of the rocks that has an extensive distribution in South Sulawesi especially in the western part. Due to limitation of geological information related to this formation we performed the paleodepositional investigation to elucidate the paleoweathering, geochemistry characterization, and detrital provenance of the Balangbaru Shale. Indeed, previous studies have demonstrated that fine-grained sedimentary rocks can serve as valuable archives of geochemical information, enabling the reconstruction of paleoclimate evolution during the deposition period. Employing XRF quantitative analysis, we examine the dispersion of major elements within eight distinct layers of the Shale. Additionally, comprehensive whole-rock analyses enable us to ascertain the abundance of major elements and subsequently deduce detrital SiO2 and biogenic SiO2 content, thereby comprehending the inorganic geochemical composition of the Balangbaru Shale.The present study seeks to address the limited understanding of the geochemical properties of the Balangbaru Shale, specifically pertaining to paleoweathering intensity and detrital provenance. Acknowledging the scarcity of recent data available on the subject matter, this research aims to bridge the limitation data gap by conducting an in-depth investigation into the geochemical characteristics of the Balangbaru Shale by employing major oxides concentrations (SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, K2O, P2O5, MgO, CaO, Na2O, MnO, TiO2, Cr2O3) and trace elements (Sr, Cu, Ba, Th, Ni, V, Th, U) into the equations such as C-value, chemical index alteration (CIA), plagioclase index of alteration (PIA), weathering index of parker (WIP) and ratio of Rb/Sr, U/Th, Sr/Cu, Sr/Ba. Furthermore, the major oxides ratio of Al2O3/TiO2 and TiO2/Zr were performed to specify the sediment provenance and the source-area rock compositions of the Balangbaru Shale. The obtained data reveals a moderate to high degree of weathering intensity in the detrital source environment of the Balangbaru Shale, suggesting warm to humid climate conditions in the source region. Additionally, the analysis of the detrital fraction indicates the possible origin of the Balangbaru Shale from felsic rocks. Overall, these findings contribute significantly to the understanding of paleoenvironmental conditions associated with the Balangbaru Shale, shedding light on its geological history.

Investigation of the transport and metabolic patterns of oil-displacing bacterium FY-07-G in the microcosm model using X-CT technology.

Microbially Enhanced Oil Recovery (MEOR) is dedicated to enhancing oil recovery by harnessing microbial metabolic activities and their byproducts within reservoir rocks and fluids. Therefore, the investigation of microbial mobility and their extensive distribution within crude oil is of paramount importance in MEOR. While microscale models have been valuable for studying bacterial strain behavior in reservoirs, they are typically limited to 2D representations of porous media, making them inadequate for simulating actual reservoir conditions. Consequently, there is a critical need for 3D models and dependable visualization methods to observe bacterial transport and metabolism within these complex reservoir environments. Bacterial cellulose (bc) is a water-insoluble polysaccharide produced by bacteria that exhibits biocompatibility and biodegradability. It holds significant potential for applications in the field of MEOR as an effective means for selective plugging and spill prevention during oil displacement processes. Conditionally cellulose-producing strain, FY-07-G, with green fluorescent labeling, was engineered for enhanced oil recovery. 3D micro-visualization model was constructed to directly observe the metabolic activities of the target bacterial strain within porous media and to assess the plugging interactions between cellulose and the medium. Additionally, X-ray computed tomography (X-CT) technology was employed for a comprehensive analysis of the transport patterns of the target strain in oil reservoirs with varying permeabilities. The results indicated that FY-07-G, as a microorganism employing biopolymer-based plugging principles to enhance oil recovery, selectively targets and seals regions characterized by lower permeability and smaller pore spaces. This work provided valuable insights into the transport and metabolic behavior of MEOR strains and tackled the limitation of 2D models in faithfully replicating oil reservoir conditions, offering essential theoretical guidance and insights for the further application of oil-displacing bacterial strains in MEOR processes.

Anticarcinogenic Potency of EF24: An Overview of Its Pharmacokinetics, Efficacy, Mechanism of Action, and Nanoformulation for Drug Delivery.

EF24, a synthetic monocarbonyl analog of curcumin, shows significant potential as an anticancer agent with both chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic properties. It exhibits rapid absorption, extensive tissue distribution, and efficient metabolism, ensuring optimal bioavailability and sustained exposure of the target tissues. The ability of EF24 to penetrate biological barriers and accumulate at tumor sites makes it advantageous for effective cancer treatment. Studies have demonstrated EF24's remarkable efficacy against various cancers, including breast, lung, prostate, colon, and pancreatic cancer. The unique mechanism of action of EF24 involves modulation of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathways, disrupting cancer-promoting inflammation and oxidative stress. EF24 inhibits tumor growth by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, mainly through inhibiting the NF-κB pathway and by regulating key genes by modulating microRNA (miRNA) expression or the proteasomal pathway. In summary, EF24 is a promising anticancer compound with a unique mechanism of action that makes it effective against various cancers. Its ability to enhance the effects of conventional therapies, coupled with improvements in drug delivery systems, could make it a valuable asset in cancer treatment. However, addressing its solubility and stability challenges will be crucial for its successful clinical application.

Macrolide and Ketolide Antibiotics Inhibit the Cytotoxic Effect of Trastuzumab Emtansine in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Cells: Implication of a Potential Drug-ADC Interaction in Cancer Chemotherapy.

Macrolides are widely used for the long-term treatment of infections and chronic inflammatory diseases. The pharmacokinetic features of macrolides include extensive tissue distribution because of favorable membrane permeability and accumulation within lysosomes. Trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1), a HER2-targeting antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), is catabolized in the lysosomes, where Lys-SMCC-DM1, a potent cytotoxic agent, is processed by proteinase degradation and subsequently released from the lysosomes to the cytoplasm through the lysosomal membrane transporter SLC46A3, resulting in an antitumor effect. We recently demonstrated that erythromycin and clarithromycin inhibit SLC46A3 and attenuate the cytotoxicity of T-DM1; however, the effect of other macrolides and ketolides has not been determined. In this study, we evaluated the effect of macrolide and ketolide antibiotics on T-DM1 cytotoxicity in a human breast cancer cell line, KPL-4. Macrolides used in the clinic, such as roxithromycin, azithromycin, and josamycin, as well as solithromycin, a ketolide under clinical development, significantly attenuated T-DM1 cytotoxicity in addition to erythromycin and clarithromycin. Of these, azithromycin was the most potent inhibitor of T-DM1 efficacy. These antibiotics significantly inhibited the transport function of SLC46A3 in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, these compounds extensively accumulated in the lysosomes at the levels estimated to be 0.41-13.6 mM when cells were incubated with them at a 2 μM concentration. The immunofluorescence staining of trastuzumab revealed that azithromycin and solithromycin inhibit the degradation of T-DM1 in the lysosomes. These results suggest that the attenuation of T-DM1 cytotoxicity by macrolide and ketolide antibiotics involves their lysosomal accumulation and results in their greater lysosomal concentrations to inhibit the SLC46A3 function and T-DM1 degradation. This suggests a potential drug-ADC interaction during cancer chemotherapy.