Irreversible Effects Research Articles

Assembly of three new triphenylamine functionalized MOFs for the fluorescent sensing of nitrobenzene

The detection of nitrobenzene (NB) is very important because it has a series of irreversible effects on human health. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) show potential applications in this field due to their tunable and porous structures. In this work, three new MOFs, namely [Mn3(TCA)2(DMF)4]·DMF (JOU-28), [Cd21(TCA)14(H2O)9]·21DMF·21H2O (JOU-29), and [Cd3Cl3(TCA)(DMF)2]·H2O (JOU-30), were successfully prepared by solvothermal method (H3TCA = 4,4′,4″-tricarboxytriphenylamine; DMF = N,N′-Dimethylformamide). Single crystal X-ray diffractions showed that JOU-28 was a 3D porous supramolecular structure based on 2D coordination networks, while both JOU-29 and JOU-30 were 3D porous structures based on 1D chains. Due to its strong fluorescence emission, JOU-29 was selected as a representative to study the NB sensing performance. A linear relationship between the NB concentration and the fluorescence emission intensity of JOU-29 could be obtained as I0/I = 0.952 + 8089[NB]. This result showed that JOU-29 can be used for quantitative detection of NB. Further studies revealed that the fluorescence quenching of JOU-29 may be due to the fluorescence resonance transfer effect and the competitive absorption. This work provides clues for the design and synthesis of fluorescent MOFs for NB detection.

Human health risk assessment and carcinogenicity due to exposure to potentially toxic elements on soil pollution in Southwest Iran

Background/objectives: Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) are one of the dangerous pollutants in the environment that can cause morbidity and mortality in humans. This study was designed to evaluate the concentration of PTEs, assessment its human health risk assessment and carcinogenicity in the north of Ahvaz, the southwest of Iran. MethodsThe soil samples were collected from the agricultural fields and riversides for investigating the health effects of the selected PTEs on the soil of the Weiss and Arab Assad regions in Ahvaz. ResultsAccording to the result of this study, the highest level of Fe was observed in the soil samples of the Weiss and Arab Assad regions, 9013.70 and 9208.93 mg/kg, while Cd showed the lowest concentration in the soils of Weiss and Arab Assad fields, 1.58 and 1.56 mg/kg, respectively. Potentially toxic elements hazard quotient (HQ), non-carcinogenic risk (HI), and risk index (RI)) in the soil of agricultural fields in the Arab Assad and Weiss regions showed that Cd, Pb, Ni, Cu, Cr, Zn, Fe, Mn, and Co posed a significant risk to human health. Thus, it is recommended to observe health issues due to the non-carcinogenic risk index of metals. ConclusionGenerally, the excessive use of agricultural fertilizers (phosphate and nitrate), industrial, and human activities can increase the contamination of the resources and products, which has irreversible effects on human health, especially in carcinogenic risk.

Preliminary analysis of the environmental conditions of Igarapé Paragominas, southeast of Pará

Urban streams can undergo changes in environmental conditions from disorderly urban growth and the deployment of road platforms on their banks, interconnecting or pervading them. The objective of this research was to analyze the environmental conditions (infrastructure, APP, water body, fauna and aquatic flora) of the Paragominas Igarapé, in the urban stretch, to identify if the process of urbanization and the construction of the highway PA -125, represent negative actions that may be associated with the quality of the water body. The method used was that of exploratory research, with obtaining primary in situ and secondary data in specific literature (articles, dissertations, theses, studies concluding courses and e-books), as well as pioneering articles (1995-1998). The data obtained and analyzed indicated that the two causes analyzed caused harmful and almost irreversible effects, since they altered the natural flow of the Paragominas stream, the loss and replacement of the riparian forest in natura, as well as the construction of bridges and architectural units and the directing of the drainage of domestic and rainy effluents towards the interior of the lake, modifying the flora and the aquatic fauna. The information contained here may help to monitor environmental conditions, especially the Green lake, an important landscaping and local leisure site, as well as the urban extension of Igarapé Paragominas.

Spatial soil loss prediction impacted by long-term land use/land cover change: a case study of Swat District.

Soil erosion is a destructive consequence of land degradation caused by deforestation, improper farming practices, overgrazing, and urbanization. This irreversible effect negatively impacts the limited renewable soil resource, causing soil truncation, reduced fertility, and unstable slopes. To address the anticipation of erosion modulus resulting from long-term land use and land cover (LULC) changes, a study was conducted in the Swat District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Kpk), Pakistan. The study aimed to predict and evaluate soil erosion concerning these changes using remote sensing (RS), geographic information systems (GIS), and the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model. We also evaluated the impact of the Billion Tree Tsunami Project (BTTP) on soil erosion in the region. Model inputs, such as rainfall erosivity factor, topography factor, land cover and management factor, and erodibility factor, were used to calculate soil erosion. The results revealed that significant soil loss occurred under 2001, 2011, and 2021 LULC conditions, accounting for 67.26%, 61.78%, and 65.32%, falling within the category of low erosion potential. The vulnerable topographical features of the area indicated higher erosion modulus. The maximum soil loss rates observed in 2001, 2011, and 2021 were 80 t/ha-1/year-1, 120 t/ha-1/year-1, and 96 t/ha-1/year-1, respectively. However, the observed reduction in soil loss in 2021 as compared to 2001 and 2011 suggests a positive influence of the BTTP on soil conservation efforts. This study underscores the potential of afforestation initiatives like the BTTP in mitigating soil erosion and highlights the significance of environmental conservation programs in regions with vulnerable topography.

Spinal Neuronal miR-124 Inhibits Microglial Activation and Contributes to Preventive Effect of Electroacupuncture on Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Mice.

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a persistent and irreversible side effect of antineoplastic agents. Patients with CIPN usually show chronic pain and sensory deficits with glove-and-stocking distribution. However, whether spinal neuronal microRNA (miR)-124 is involved in cisplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy remains to be studied. In this study, miR-124 was significantly reduced in the spinal dorsal horn in CIPN mice. Overexpression of neuronal miR-124 induced by injecting adeno-associated virus with neuron-specific promoter into the spinal cord of mice prevented the development of mechanical allodynia, sensory deficits, and the loss of intraepidermal nerve fibers induced by cisplatin. Meanwhile, cisplatin-induced M1 microglia activation and the release of proinflammatory cytokines were significantly inhibited by overexpression of neuronal miR-124. Furthermore, electroacupuncture (EA) treatment upregulated miR-124 expression in the spinal dorsal horn of CIPN mice. Interestingly, downregulation of spinal neuronal miR-124 significantly inhibited the regulatory effect of EA on CIPN and microglia activity as well as spinal neuroinflammation induced by cisplatin. These results demonstrate that spinal neuronal miR-124 is involved in the prevention and treatment of EA on cisplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy in mice. Our findings suggest that spinal neuronal miR-124 might be a potential target for EA effect, and we provide, to our knowledge, a new experimental basis for EA prevention of CIPN.

Irreversible effects? How the digitalization of daily practices has changed after the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting lockdown made individuals rely more on digital technologies – for their work, study, shopping, and other daily routines. Self-isolation and compulsory digitalization increased stress levels due to a lack of traditional, offline interaction. These and other negative effects could cause ‘a digital backslide’ after the end of the quarantine, when people were given back the opportunity to choose between online and offline strategies. This study aims to determine if it actually happened. Based on the panel survey of Russian internet users (N = 1317) – conducted amidst the active phase of the pandemic in 2020 and after the removal of most restrictive measures in 2021 – it demonstrates the use of digital tools decreased for the practices which traditionally combine online and face-to-face, offline interaction (communication, meeting new people, watching/attending sports and cultural events, etc.). For others, there has been even a modest increase of the digitalization level. Such dynamics are observed in the practices mainly performed on the internet: information search, using public, financial and insurance services, etc. The study shows that the users who felt an external pressure to increase their digital usage in 2020, due to COVID-19 restrictions, tended to decrease it after the lockdown was over. A similar trend is shown by the inhabitants of rural areas. The users with a high financial status and those which acquired new digital skills during the quarantine, on the contrary, have further increased their digital usage.The study contributes to the academic discussion of the digitalization of society and empirical analysis of its trends. It confirms that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the digitalization level of individuals’ daily practices has ingrained: no significant decrease in the use of digital technologies after the lockdown has been identified.

Electrocatalysts composed of amorphous red phosphorous nanosheets coupled with carboxylic group carbon nanotubes for Li[sbnd]S batteries

The large-scale applications of lithium sulfur batteries have been limited by their rapid capacity loss, which can be attributed to the dissolution of polysulfide intermediates and subsequent irreversible shuttling effect. Several strategies have been attempted to the solve these problems by designing novel cell structure, including the modification of separator. Herein, a hybrid is obtained via a ball-milling with red phosphorous and carboxylic group carbon nanotubes (CNTs), in which bulk red phosphorous are simultaneous grounded into an overview of red phosphorous nanosheets (NP) and distribution the hybrid. Moreover, the P-O-C and PC chemical bonds are formed between red phosphorous and CNTs upon ball-milling, which enable an intimate and robust contact between red phosphorous and CNTs, and thus facilitates the electron transfer and enhances the surface polarity of NP@CNTs. The red phosphorous nanosheets also possess a strong affinity to sulfur species, which could effectively adsorb lithium polysulfides, and boost their redox reaction catalytically-accelerate the reversible soluble/insoluble phases conversion. Benefiting from this unique nanostructures, the lithium‑sulfur (LiS) cell based on NP@CNTs hybrid modified separator has an initial discharge capacity of 895.8 mAh g−1 at 0.3C and sustain a capacity of 704.2 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles, corresponding to a retention rate of 78.6 %. The cell with a high sulfur loading of 8.9 mg cm−2, it shows a discharge capacity of 7.6 mAh cm−2 and still maintains 6.5 mAh cm−2 over 100 cycles.

Ganglioglioma cells potentiate neuronal network synchronicity and elicit burst discharges via released factors

Gangliogliomas (GGs) represent the most frequent glioneuronal tumor entity associated with chronic recurrent seizures; rare anaplastic GGs variants retain the glioneuronal character. So far, key mechanisms triggering chronic hyperexcitability in the peritumoral area are unresolved. Based on a recent mouse model for anaplastic GG (BRAFV600E, mTOR activation and Trp53KO) we here assessed the influence of GG-secreted factors on non-neoplastic cells in-vitro. We generated conditioned medium (CM) from primary GG cell cultures to developing primary cortical neurons cultured on multielectrode-arrays and assessed their electrical activity in comparison to neurons incubated with naïve and neuronal CMs. Our results showed that the GG CM, while not affecting the mean firing rates of networks, strongly accelerated the formation of functional networks as indicated increased synchrony of firing and burst activity. Washing out the GG CM did not reverse these effects indicating an irreversible effect on the neuronal network. Mass spectrometry analysis of GG CM detected several enriched proteins associated with neurogenesis as well as gliogenesis, including Gap43, App, Apoe, S100a8, Tnc and Sod1. Concomitantly, immunocytochemical analysis of the neuronal cultures exposed to GG CM revealed abundant astrocytes suggesting that the GG-secreted factors induce astroglial proliferation. Pharmacological inhibition of astrocyte proliferation only partially reversed the accelerated network maturation in neuronal cultures exposed to GG CM indicating that the GG CM exerts a direct effect on the neuronal component. Taken together, we demonstrate that GG-derived paracrine signaling alone is sufficient to induce accelerated neuronal network development accompanied by astrocytic proliferation. Perspectively, a deeper understanding of factors involved may serve as the basis for future therapeutic approaches.

ANTIMICROBIAL EFFECTS OF COLLOIDAL NANOSILVER

The silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) show high antimicrobial activity, confirmed by a number of researchers. Due to the widespread occurrence of microbial strains with multiple resistance to antibiotics, the possibilities for the diverse practical application of AgNPs have become the subject of research nowadays. They have numerous potential biomedical applications due to the antimicrobial activity even against polyresistant strains combined with low cytotoxicity. In many cases, this activity is enhanced when they are combined with antibiotics, plant extracts and other substances. However, serious irreversible adverse health effects have been identified. Elucidation of their exact mechanisms of action in the cells not only of microorganisms but also of mammals is important in connection with the possibilities for their efficient and safe application. That is why the subject of this article are the studies of the biological activity and possibilities for practical application of AgNPs.

Comparative Evaluation of Antioxidant and Anti-Depressant Activity of Macrotyloma Uniflorum vs. Clitoria Ternatea Methanolic Leaf Extracts

Background: Depression and anxiety are prevalent psychiatric disorders in the modern era, often attributed to the alterations in signalling neurotransmitters or the release of biogenic amines characterized by changes in consciousness, psychomotor functions, and emotional disturbances. Purpose: Several antidepressant drugs are available; they may cause irreversible adverse effects. Therefore, exploring herbal remedies as an alternative therapy holds potential benefits. Macrotyloma uniflorum and Clitoria ternatea are among the plants traditionally utilized for their anti-depression activity. Method: This study aims to compare the antidepressant activity of the methanolic extracts of M. uniflorum and C. ternatea leaves. Their phytochemical compositions were analysed, and antioxidant activities were evaluated using DPPH and Superoxide radical scavenging assays. Results: The outcomes of phytochemical screening indicated the presence of secondary metabolites in both extracts, including alkaloids, saponins, glycosides, steroids, flavonoids, phenols, terpenoids and tannins. The antioxidant assays indicated significant antioxidant potential in both M. uniflorum and C. ternatea extracts. Various biochemical assays, behavioural studies, and histopathological evaluations were conducted using a toluene-induced mice model. Conclusion: The behavioural study and biochemical estimations confirmed the antidepressant potential of both extracts. However, the M. uniflorum extract exhibited better efficacy in alleviating depressive symptoms. In light of future perspectives, it would be valuable to isolate and identify the specific compounds facilitating a more targeted pharmacological approach for depression pharmacotherapy.

Suppression of neurogranin expression by disruption of epigenetic DNA methylation in hippocampal mature granule cells after developmental exposure to neurotoxicants in rats

We previously performed comprehensive analyses of genes hypermethylated promoter regions and downregulated transcripts in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) of rats upon weaning at postnatal day (PND) 21 after developmental exposure to 6-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU), valproic acid, and glycidol (GLY), all of which are known to show irreversible effects on hippocampal neurogenesis in adulthood on PND 77. Here, we selected neurotransmitter and neurogenesis-related genes for validation analysis of methylation and expression. As a result, Nrgn by GLY and Shisa7, Agtpbp1, and Cyp46a1 by PTU underwent DNA hypermethylation and sustained downregulation. Immunohistochemical analysis of candidate gene products revealed that the number of neurogranin (NRGN)+ granule cells was decreased in the ventral DG by GLY on PND 21 and 77 and by PTU on PND 21. Among the samples of developmental or 28-day young adult-age exposure to known developmental neurotoxicants in humans, i.e., lead acetate, ethanol, and aluminum chloride, a decrease of NRGN+ cells by ethanol was also observed on PND 77 after developmental exposure. Double immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that NRGN was expressed in mature granule cells, and a similar immunoreactive cell distribution was found for phosphorylated calcium/calmodulin-activated protein kinase, a NRGN downstream molecule. After developmental PTU exposure, the number of activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein+ granule cells was also profoundly decreased in the ventral DG in parallel with the decrease in NRGN+ cells on PND 21. These results suggest that NRGN is a potential marker for suppression of synaptic plasticity in mature granule cells in the ventral DG.

Exploring and strengthening the potential of R-phycocyanin from Nori flakes as a food colourant.

This study aimed to purify, characterise and stabilise the natural food colourant, R-phycocyanin (R-PC), from the red algae Porphyra spp. (Nori). We purified R-PC from dried Nori flakes with a high purity ratio (A618/A280≥3.4) in native form (α-helix content 53%). SAXS measurements revealed that R-PC is trimeric ((αβ)3) in solution. The thermal denaturation of α-helix revealed one transition (Tm at 52°C), while the pH stability study showed R-PC is stable in the pH range 4-8. The thermal treatment of R-PC at 60°C has detrimental and irreversible effects on R-PC colour and antioxidant capacity (22 % of residual capacity). However, immobilisation of R-PC within calcium alginate beads completely preserves R-PC colour and mainly retains its antioxidant ability (78 % of residual capacity). Results give new insights into the stability of R-PC and preservation of its purple colour and bioactivity by encapsulation in calcium alginate beads.

Metal-organic framework-decorated PTFE reinforced membranes with immobilized caffeic acid radical scavenger towards improved performance and durability of PEMFC

During the continuous operation of fuel cell, the generated free radicals have an irreversible effect on the proton exchange membrane (PEM), and the introduction of free radical scavengers is an effective strategy for improving its durability. In this study, we proposed to prepare thin and highly durable reinforced membranes by immobilizing organic radical scavenger caffeic acid on the fibrous PTFE supporting layer decorated with amino-functionalized metal-organic framework. The electrostatic force between the amino and sulphonic acid groups can induce an orderly aggregation of hydrophilic cationic groups within the Nafion, endowing the reinforced composite PEMs with superior proton conductivity. The mechanical properties and dimensional stability of the reinforced membranes were effectively enhanced by the reinforcement of the PTFE layer decorated with the MOF network, and the hydrogen crossover was mitigated. The thickness of Nafion reinforced membranes was reduced to 25 µm with the PTFE reinforcement. After assembling in a single cell, the Nafion composite membrane (PPUC-Nafion-3) with a 3 wt% doping of caffeic acid achieved a maximum power density (PDmax) of 812.64 mW cm−2 and the open circuit voltage (OCV) decay rate of only 1.11 mV h−1 over 100 h. For comparison under the same conditions, recast Nafion possessed a much lower PDmax of only 486.30 mW cm−2 and a higher OCV decay rate of 1.91 mV h−1. This study demonstrates an effective approach to developing highly durable and thin PEMs for the realization of PEMFC with improved output performance and durability simultaneously.

Design and experimental verification of an electro-hydraulic dual system with reliable resistance to γ-irradiation

Remote handling constitutes a critical technological facet in the domain of fusion reactors. However, exposure to γ rays inflicts irreversible deleterious effects on both electronic assemblies and structural materials. In the present investigation, we meticulously engineered an electro-hydraulic dual system tailored for remote handling applications within fusion reactors. Subsequently, the system was subjected to γ irradiation employing 60Co as the radioactive source. After exposure to a dose of 4 MGy, the electro-hydraulic dual joint system demonstrates sustained functional integrity. In contrast, isolated electric and hydraulic joints manifests minor oil seepage after exposure to a radiation dose of 5 MGy. Additionally, the effectiveness of the selected O-ring sealing material, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), exhibits a significant decrement upon irradiation to a dose of 1–3 MGy. The observed γ-radiation resilience is attributed to strategic material selection, specifically in the choice of O-ring, as well as metal reinforcement. The findings furnish valuable insights for the development of remote handling systems capable of operating under γ irradiation and strenuous mechanical conditions.

Efficient and geometry-matching two-stage annular thermoelectric generator for tubular solid oxide fuel cell waste heat recovery

Tubular solid oxide fuel cell (TSOFC) converts a great part of chemical energy within fuel into high-grade waste heat, leading to a decrease in overall fuel efficiency. In this paper, a steady-state hybrid system model based on TSOFC and two-stage annular thermoelectric generator (TATEG) is proposed. Considering various kinds of irreversible effects, mathematical model for the hybrid system is explicitly formulated and verified to guarantee the accuracy. Energetic and exergetic performance indexes of the hybrid system and subsystems are obtained, and the corresponding performance characteristics are revealed. Calculation results display that the power density, energetic and exergetic efficiencies of TSOFC-TATEG hybrid system can be 15.29 %, 11.25 % and 11.25 % higher than that of stand-alone TSOFC, respectively. The power density, energetic efficiency and exergetic efficiency of TSOFC-TATEG hybrid system are all increased by 5.65 % compared to that of TSOFC-ATEG hybrid system. Furthermore, this study reveals that enhancing the performance of the hybrid system is attainable through regulating variables, such as elevated operating temperatures, optimal quantities of thermoelectric elements, appropriate ratios between thermoelectric element numbers, well-considered thermocouple thickness, suitable thermocouple radial width, and the judicious selection of parameters like annular shape or height ratio.

Changes in the functional and phylogenetic diversity of above- and below-ground plant communities invaded by two alien herbs

Introduced plants can have long-lasting and irreversible effects on the communities and ecosystems they invade. A critical step towards understanding the legacy of plant introductions is the characterisation of changes in the invaded plant communities and how these changes are related to biogeochemical modifications. Here, we addressed this issue by comparing the impacts of two large invasive herbs, Gunnera tinctoria and Impatiens glandulifera, on the compositional, functional, and phylogenetic structure of the standing vegetation (above-ground communities) and the soil seed bank (below-ground communities). The introduction of both invasive species was associated with a significant decrease in above-ground species richness, with subsequent changes in the functional diversity and phylogenetic dispersion of the vegetation. Yet, these invaders differed in their long-term impacts and the reversibility of any modifications they caused. While G. tinctoria invasions resulted in phylogenetically clustered communities (both above- and below-ground) that were clearly distinct from uninvaded ones, seed bank communities invaded by I. glandulifera were indistinguishable from uninvaded ones, despite major compositional changes above-ground. Further, we found alterations in nutrient cycling associated with G. tinctoria invasions that could facilitate its local persistence and exacerbate any negative effects on native diversity. Our findings suggest a high susceptibility of pre-invasion above-ground communities to colonisation by distantly related herbs. However, the seed banks showed a degree of resilience against both invaders, with no major differences in species richness. Ultimately, differences in the impacts of these large invasive herbs suggest that dominance in the vegetation and a large stature are poor predictors of long-term plant community changes, including regeneration potential from seed, which are associated with plant introductions.

Frozen, Cold, or Cool? Chemical Assessment of the Effectiveness of Storage Conditions for Celluloid 3D Objects.

Preserving celluloid artifacts is challenging for museums, as this plastic is highly prone to degradation. Frozen, cold, and cool storage solutions are typically recommended for inhibiting the chemical degradation of celluloid. However, they are rarely implemented for three-dimensional celluloid (3D-CN) objects because low temperatures might cause irreversible effects (e.g., microcracking). This work presents the effects of four different storage temperatures (+23 °C, +13 °C, +9 °C, -15 °C) on the preservation of artificially aged 3D-CN mock-ups, aiming at understanding their effectiveness by measuring molecular weight distribution, camphor, and nitrogen contents after storage. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) results showed that the least loss of camphor content and fewer polymer chain scissions happened at -15 °C, hinting that this temperature was the best for preservation. However, the heterogeneous nature of celluloid alteration, i.e., the development of degradation gradients in thicker 3D-CN objects (>0.5 mm), made it necessary to apply a novel sampling technique, which selectively considers several depths for analyses from the surface to the core (depth profiling). This depth profiling made monitoring the degradation evolution dependent on the storage conditions in the thicker mock-ups possible. This approach was also used for the first time to quantify the polymer chain scission, camphor loss, and denitration of historical artifacts, indicating a dramatic difference in the degradation stage between surface and core. The effectiveness of frozen storage on the chemical stability of 3D-CN after seven months could support museums to consider reducing the storage temperatures to preserve precious artifacts.

Reversible and irreversible effects of a moderate heat treatment on the moisture sorption and swelling behavior of modern and historical oak wood

Reversible and irreversible effects of a moderate heat treatment on the moisture sorption and swelling behavior of modern and historical oak wood

FAM134B-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-phagy exacerbates cisplatin-insulted hair cell apoptosis ：Possible relation to excessive ER stress

AimsFAM134B, the initial endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-phagy receptor identified, facilitates ER-phagy during ER stress. The malfunction of FAM134B has been demonstrated to have a crucial role in the pathological mechanisms of diverse human ailments. However, the role of FAM134B-mediated ER-phagy in ototoxicity, particularly in cisplatin-induced ototoxicity, remains unclear. The present study endeavors to investigate whether FAM134B is expressed in House Ear Institute-Organ of Corti 1 (HEI-OC1) and C57BL/6 murine cochlear hair cells (HCs), and to explore its potential function in cisplatin-mediated ototoxicity, with the aim of discovering new insights that can mitigate or forestall the irreversible adverse effect of cisplatin. MethodsImmunofluorescence (IF) staining was used to test the expression pattern of FAM134B, levels of C/EBP-homologous protein (CHOP), autophagy, and co-localization ratio of lysosomes and ER. Western blotting was employed to measure changes in expression levels of FAM134B, LC3B, ER stress-related proteins, LAMP1 and apoptotic mediators. Cell apoptosis was examined using transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay and flow cytometry. ResultsIn the present investigation, it was observed that FAM134B exhibited a diffuse expression pattern in the cytoplasm and nuclei of control HEI-OC1 cells. Following cisplatin administration, FAM134B was found to accumulate and form distinct dots around the nuclei, concomitant with increased levels of ER-phagy, ER stress, unfolded protein response (UPR), and cell apoptosis. Additionally, knockdown of FAM134B resulted in reduced ER-phagy, mitigated ER stress and UPR, and decreased apoptotic activity in HEI-OC1 cells following cisplatin exposure. ConclusionsCollectively, the findings of this study demonstrate that FAM134B-mediated ER-phagy enhances the susceptibility of HCs to ER stress and apoptosis in response to cisplatin-induced stress. This suggests a sequential progression of ER-phagy, ER stress and apoptosis following cisplatin stimulus, and implies the potential therapeutic benefit of inhibiting of FAM134B-mediated ER-phagy in the prevention of cisplatin-related ototoxicity.

Occurrence, distribution, and environmental risk of 61 glucocorticoids in surface water of the Yellow River Delta, China

Glucocorticoids (GCs), as important endocrine disrupting compounds and emerging contaminants, could have irreversible adverse effects on aquatic organisms even at ng/L levels. However, previous studies have only focused on the dissolved concentrations of GCs in the water, and limited data are available for their occurrences in the solid phase. In this study, the occurrence, distribution, and environmental risks of 61 natural and synthetic GCs in surface water of the Yellow River Delta (YRD) were simultaneously analyzed by investigating water, suspended particulate matter (SPM) and sediment samples at 64 sites in six major rivers in the wet season. Overall, 51 GCs were detected in all samples from different matrices, and their concentrations were in the range of not detected (ND)−274 ng/L in water, ND−42 ng/g dry weight (dw) in SPM and ND−9.98 ng/g dw in sediment. Natural GCs were the dominant compounds in all samples, followed by synthetic halogenated esters. High concentrations of GCs were observed in discharge outlet samples from livestock farming, aquaculture and industrial production, and the composition differences of GCs between human/animal sources and industrial sources could be used as indicators to identify pollution sources. Most GCs were distributed in the water phase, while compounds with higher log octanol/water partition coefficients (log Kow) tended to be adsorbed to SPM and sediment. The spatial distribution of GCs was primarily affected by anthropogenic activities and hydrodynamic conditions. Four synthetic compounds (budesonide [BD], fluocinolone acetonide [FOA], fluticasone propionate [FP], and clobetasol propionate [CBSP]) were identified as the main contributors to GC activity with a combined contribution of 57 %–95 %. Risk assessment using the risk quotient revealed that low to moderate risks are posed to aquatic organisms in surface water.