Many investigation techniques are commonly employed with the aim of estimating the spatial distribution of transmissivity. Unfortunately, the conventional methods for the determination of hydraulic parameters such as ...Many investigation techniques are commonly employed with the aim of estimating the spatial distribution of transmissivity. Unfortunately, the conventional methods for the determination of hydraulic parameters such as pumping tests, permeameter measurements and grain size analysis are invasive and relatively expensive. A geoelectric investigation involving vertical electrical sounding was carried in parts of Enugu town, Enugu state, Nigeria. The survey was aimed at extrapolating the result of pumping tests over an area. Using the Dar Zarrouk parameter, a β constant of 0.32 was found to translate resistivity to transmissivity with clay content as the primary factor controlling the hydraulic conductivity. Results of the study show a strong correlation between aquifer transmissivity and longitudinal conductance (R2 = 0.82). Estimation of aquifer transmissivity values based on the results of the resistivity measurements also made it possible to demarcate area with good groundwater potential in parts of Enugu town, Nigeria.展开更多
During the long service period of a nuclear waste repository in crystalline rock,large earthquake(s)may occur nearby the repository site and coseismically alter the local stress field around pre-existing fractures wit...During the long service period of a nuclear waste repository in crystalline rock,large earthquake(s)may occur nearby the repository site and coseismically alter the local stress field around pre-existing fractures within the geological formation.The resulting fracture normal/shear displacements may lead to fracture opening and further promote the transport of leaked radionuclides into the groundwater system.Thus,it is of central importance to analyze the consequences of potential future earthquake(s)on the hydrogeological properties of a repository site for spent nuclear fuel disposal.Based on the detailed site characterization data of the repository site at Forsmark,Sweden,we conduct a three-dimensional(3D)seismo-hydro-mechanical simulation using the 3Dimensional Distinct Element Code(3DEC).We explicitly represent a primary seismogenic fault zone and its surrounding secondary fracture network associated with a power-law size scaling and a Fisher orientation distribution.An earthquake with a magnitude of M_(w)=5.6 caused by the reactivation of the primary fault zone is modeled by simulating its transient rupture propagating radially outwards from a predefined hypocenter at a specified rupture speed,with the faulting dynamics controlled by a strength weakening law.We model the coseismic response of the off-fault fracture network subject to both static and dynamic triggering effects.We further diagnose the distribution of fracture hydro-mechanical properties(e.g.mechanical/hydraulic aperture,hydraulic transmissivity)before and after the earthquake in order to quantify earthquakeinduced hydraulic changes in the fracture network.It is found that earthquake-induced fracture transmissivity changes tend to follow a power-law decay with the distance to the earthquake fault.Our simulation results and insights obtained have important implications for the long-term performance assessment of nuclear waste repositories in fractured crystalline rocks.展开更多
The application of geophysical methods in combination with pumping tests provides a cost-effective and efficient alternative to estimate aquifer parameters. In this study, nineteen Schlumberger vertical electrical sou...The application of geophysical methods in combination with pumping tests provides a cost-effective and efficient alternative to estimate aquifer parameters. In this study, nineteen Schlumberger vertical electrical soundings (VES) were occupied in parts of Bayelsa State using a maximum current electrode separation ranging beweeen 300 - 400 m with the aim of estimating the transmissivity of the alluvial aquifer in areas where no pumping test has been carried out. Four of the soundings were carried out near existing boreholes in which pumping test had been carried out. The VES data obtained was interpreted, and layer parameters such as true resistivities and thickness were determined. The geoelectric parameters were used to generate the Dar Zarrouk parameters. Correlating the Dar Zarrouk parameter (e.g longitudinal unit conductance) with transmissivity derived from pumping test data, a constant was found which translate longitudinal unit conductance to transmissivity in a hydrogeological setting where effective porosity is the primary control on resistivity and hydraulic conductivity. Transmissivity determined from the pumping test data range between 1634.0 - 5292.0 m2/day while transmissivity values estimated from the longitudinal unit conductance (Lc) range between 721 - 8991 m2/day. The transmissivity estimated from the pumping test (Tp) data and transmissivity estimated from the longitudinal conductance (Lc) on comparison show excellent correlation (R2 = 0.92). The high transmissivity values agree with the geology of the Benin Formation (Coastal Plain sands) consisting of fine-medium-coarse sands. The results give a useful first approximation of the transmissivity and could be used to site exploratory boreholes.展开更多
Global dimming term was introduced in 1990s which means the decline in global radiation. This decline was reported in several studies across the world. In the present study time series analysis of global radiation (19...Global dimming term was introduced in 1990s which means the decline in global radiation. This decline was reported in several studies across the world. In the present study time series analysis of global radiation (1960-2003), transmissivity (1960-2003) and bright sunshine hours (1973-2003) has been done over Nagpur during pre-monsoon (March to May) and monsoon seasons (June-September). A significant decrease in global radiation and transmissivity has been reported for both the seasons and it was higher during pre-monsoon compared to monsoon. Bright sunshine hour has also shown good agreement with the previous trend with a significant trend on pre-monsoon months only. Mann Kendall test was performed to confirm the significance of reported trend.展开更多
This study was undertaken to determine the hydrologic properties of the aquifer materials at Ogbozara-Opi/Ekwegbe-Agu and environs by the estimation of the aquifer transmissivity using Dar Zarrouk parameters. The stud...This study was undertaken to determine the hydrologic properties of the aquifer materials at Ogbozara-Opi/Ekwegbe-Agu and environs by the estimation of the aquifer transmissivity using Dar Zarrouk parameters. The study area lies in the Anambra basin and is underlain, from bottom to top, by 3 prominent geologic formations;Enugu Formation, Mamu Formation and Ajali Formation respectively. A total of 19 sounding stations were occupied within the study area using the Ohmega resistivity meter. The VES data were interpreted using the conventional partial curve matching technique to obtain initial model parameters which were later used as input data for computer iterative modelling using the Interpex software. These analyses were further combined with information from two existing boreholes in the study area to estimate aquifer hydraulic parameters using Dar-Zarrouk parameters. The layer parameters thus obtained revealed that the dominant curve type obtained from the different formations is the AK curve type followed by the HK curve type. An average of 6 geo-electric layers were delineated across all transect taken with resistivity values ranging from 25.42 - 105.85 Ωm, 186.38 - 3383.3 Ωm and 2992.3 - 6286.4 Ωm in the Enugu, Mamu and Ajali Formations respectively. Results of the study revealed the aquifer resistivity in the study area ranges from 1 - 500 Ωm. The depth to the water table range from 13 - 208 m with a mean value of 76.05, while aquifer thickness varies between 95 and 140 m with a mean value of 102.89 m. The values of the Dar-Zarrouk parameters revealed that the transverse resistance varies between −10,000 - 170,000 Ωm<sup>2</sup>, while the longitudinal conductance varies from 0.1 - 1 to 1.9 Ω - 1. Similarly, the hydraulic conductivity in the area ranges from 5 to 50 m/day, while the transmissivity values range from 1000 to 14,000 m<sup>2</sup>/day.展开更多
Forests play an important role in the global carbon cycle and have a potential impact on global climatic change.Monitoring forest biomass is of considerable importance in understanding the hydrological cycle.Because o...Forests play an important role in the global carbon cycle and have a potential impact on global climatic change.Monitoring forest biomass is of considerable importance in understanding the hydrological cycle.Because of the problem of dense forest cover,no reliable method with which to retrieve soil moisture in forest areas from the microwave emission signature has been established.All of these issues relate to the microwave emissivity and transmissivity characteristics of a forest.The microwave emission contribution received by a sensor above a forest canopy comes from both the soil surface and the vegetation layer.To analyze the relationship of forest biomass and forest emission and transmissivity,a high-order emission model,the matrix-doubling model,which consists of both soil and vegetation models,was developed and then validated for a young deciduous forest stand in a field experiment.To simulate the emissivity and transmissivity of a deciduous forest in the L and X bands using the matrix-doubling model,the parameters of components of deciduous trees when the leaf area index varies from 1 to10 were generated by an L-system and a forest growth model.The emissivity and transmissivity of a forest and the relationships of these parameters to forest biomass are presented and analyzed in this paper.Emissivity in the L band when the leaf area index is less than 6 and at viewing angles less than 40°,and transmissivity in the L band are the most sensitive parameters in deciduous forest biomass estimation.展开更多
Forests have invariably been considered as an obstacle in retrieving land surface parameters from spaceborne passive microwave brightness temperature(T_(B))observations.For quantifying the effect of forests on microwa...Forests have invariably been considered as an obstacle in retrieving land surface parameters from spaceborne passive microwave brightness temperature(T_(B))observations.For quantifying the effect of forests on microwave signals,several models have been developed.However,these models rarely reveal the dependence of microwave radiation on forest types,which can hardly meet the needs of high-accuracy retrieval of terrestrial parameters in forested regions.A ground-based microwave radiometric observation experiment was designed to investigate the dependence of microwave radiation on frequency,polarization,and forest type.Downward TB at 18.7-and 36.5-GHz for horizontal-and vertical-polarization from the forest canopy was measured at 14 sample plots in Northeast China,along with snowpack and forest structural parameters.By providing fits to experimental data,new empirical transmissivity models for three forest types were developed,as a function of woody stem volume and depending on the frequency/polarization.The proposed models give diverse asymptotic transmissivity saturation levels and the corresponding saturation point of woody stem volume for different forest types.Root-mean-square error results between T_(B) simulations and Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer-2 observations are approximately 3-6 K.This study provides an experimental and theoretical reference for further development of inversion models for snow parameters in forested areas.展开更多
Space-Based Solar Power(SBSP) presents a promising solution for achieving carbon neutrality and Renewable Electricity 100%(RE100) goals by offering a stable and continuous energy supply. However, its commercialization...Space-Based Solar Power(SBSP) presents a promising solution for achieving carbon neutrality and Renewable Electricity 100%(RE100) goals by offering a stable and continuous energy supply. However, its commercialization faces significant obstacles due to the technical challenges of long-distance microwave Wireless Power Transmission(WPT) from geostationary orbit. Even ground-based kilometer-scale WPT experiments remain difficult because of limited testing infrastructure, high costs, and strict electromagnetic wave regulations. Since the 1975 NASA-Raytheon experiment, which successfully recovered 30 kW of power over 1.55 km, there has been little progress in extending the transmission distance or increasing the retrieved power. This study proposes a cost-effective methodology for conducting long-range WPT experiments in constrained environments by utilizing existing infrastructure. A deep space antenna operating at 2.08 GHz with an output power of 2.3 kW and a gain of 55.3 dBi was used as the transmitter. Two test configurations were implemented: a 1.81 km ground-to-air test using an aerostat to elevate the receiver and a 1.82 km ground-to-ground test using a ladder truck positioned on a plateau. The rectenna consists of a lightweight 3×3 patch antenna array(0.9 m × 0.9 m), accompanied by a steering device and LED indicators to verify power reception. The aerostat-based test achieved a power density of 154.6 mW/m2, which corresponds to approximately 6.2% of the theoretical maximum. The performance gap is primarily attributed to near-field interference, detuning of the patch antenna, rectifier mismatch, and alignment issues. These limitations are expected to be mitigated through improved patch antenna fabrication, a transition from GaN to GaAs rectifiers optimized for lower input power, and the implementation of an automated alignment system. With these enhancements, the recovered power is expected to improve by approximately four to five times. The results demonstrate a practical and scalable framework for long-range WPT experiments under constrained conditions and provide key insights for advancing SBSP technology.展开更多
The efficiency and stability of catalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution(PHE)are largely governed by the charge transfer behaviors across the heterojunction interfaces.In this study,CuO,a typical semiconductor ...The efficiency and stability of catalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution(PHE)are largely governed by the charge transfer behaviors across the heterojunction interfaces.In this study,CuO,a typical semiconductor featuring a broad spectral absorption range,is successfully employed as the electron acceptor to combine with CdS for constructing a S-scheme heterojunction.The optimized photocatalyst(CdSCuO2∶1)delivers an exceptional hydrogen evolution rate of 18.89 mmol/(g·h),4.15-fold higher compared with bare CdS.X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS)and ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflection absorption spectroscopy(UV-vis DRS)confirmed the S-scheme band structure of the composites.Moreover,the surface photovoltage(SPV)and electron paramagnetic resonance(EPR)indicated that the photogenerated electrons and photogenerated holes of CdS-CuO2∶1 were respectively transferred to the conduction band(CB)of CdS with a higher reduction potential and the valence band(VB)of CuO with a higher oxidation potential under illumination,as expected for the S-scheme mechanism.Density-functional-theory calculations of the electron density difference(EDD)disclose an interfacial electric field oriented from CdS to CuO.This built-in field suppresses charge recombination and accelerates carrier migration,rationalizing the markedly enhanced PHE activity.This study offers a novel strategy for designing S-scheme heterojunctions with high light harvesting and charge utilization toward sustainable solar-tohydrogen conversion.展开更多
The age-hardening response,mechanical,and corrosion-resistant properties of AA7085 alloys with and without the addition of 0.3 wt.%scandium(Sc)were compared.Using advanced techniques such as aberration-corrected trans...The age-hardening response,mechanical,and corrosion-resistant properties of AA7085 alloys with and without the addition of 0.3 wt.%scandium(Sc)were compared.Using advanced techniques such as aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy and first-principles calculations,the underlying micromechanisms of Sc microalloying were revealed.Results show that the increase in strength of the AA7085-Sc alloy is mainly attributed to the decreased Al grain size and increased number density of both Al_(3)Sc@Al_(3)(Sc,Zr)core−shell nanoparticles and Sc-containingη_(p) and GP−η_(p) nanoprecipitates.Strong strain fields and evident electron transfer from Zr to the neighboring matrix Al atoms exist at the Al_(3)Sc@Al_(3)(Sc,Zr)/Al interface.The Sc doping in GP−η_(p) andη_(p) suppresses the GP−η_(p)→η_(p) transformation.Modified corrosion resistance of the AA7085-Sc alloy compared with AA7085 alloy is associated with the fine grain boundary precipitates ofη_(p)hases and narrow precipitation free zone.The reasons of property changes of AA7085 alloy after Sc microalloying are explored based on the multiscale microstructural characterization.展开更多
To enhance power flow regulation in scenarios involving large-scale renewable energy transmission via high-voltage direct current(HVDC)links and multi-infeed DC systems in load-center regions,this paper proposes a hyb...To enhance power flow regulation in scenarios involving large-scale renewable energy transmission via high-voltage direct current(HVDC)links and multi-infeed DC systems in load-center regions,this paper proposes a hybrid modular multilevel converter–capacitor-commutated line-commutated converter(MMC-CLCC)HVDC transmission system and its corresponding control strategy.First,the system topology is constructed,and a submodule configuration method for the MMC—combining full-bridge submodules(FBSMs)and half-bridge submodules(HBSMs)—is proposed to enable direct power flow reversal.Second,a hierarchical control strategy is introduced,includingMMCvoltage control,CLCC current control,and a coordinationmechanism,along with the derivation of the hybrid system’s power flow reversal characteristics.Third,leveraging the CLCC’s fast current regulation and theMMC’s negative voltage control capability,a coordinated power flow reversal control strategy is developed.Finally,an 800 kV MMC-CLCC hybrid HVDC system is modeled in PSCAD/EMTDC to validate the power flow reversal performance under a high proportion of full-bridge submodule configuration.Results demonstrate that the proposed control strategy enables rapid(1-s transition)and smooth switching of bidirectional power flow without modifying the structure of primary equipment:the transient fluctuation ofDC voltage from the rated value(UdcN)to themaximumreverse voltage(-kUdcN)is less than 5%;the DC current strictly follows the preset characteristic curve with a deviation of≤3%;the active power reverses continuously,and the system maintains stable operation throughout the reversal process.展开更多
Imidazole(IM)particles in the atmosphere affect climate,atmospheric chemical reactions,and human health.However,research on IM particles in the Sichuan Basin(SCB),one of the areas of China affected most heavily by haz...Imidazole(IM)particles in the atmosphere affect climate,atmospheric chemical reactions,and human health.However,research on IM particles in the Sichuan Basin(SCB),one of the areas of China affected most heavily by haze,remains very scarce.This study used single-particle aerosol mass spectrometry to investigate IM-containing particles in Chengdu,one of the megacities in the SCB,during summer and winter before and after implemen-tation of the Three-year Action Plan to Win the Blue-Sky Defense War(BSDW).We found that IM-containing particles accounted for 1.2%–12.0%of all detected particles,and they highly mixed with carbonaceous com-ponents,secondary inorganic species,and organic nitrogen.From before to after the BSDW,the proportion of IM-containing particles decreased by 1.8%in summer,but increased by 9.6%in winter.Ammonium/amines and carbonyl compounds were closely related to IM-containing particles;the highest proportion of IM-containing particles occurred in particles mixed with amines and carbonyls.The number fraction of IM-containing particles in all seasons was higher at night than during daytime.The potential source areas of IM-containing particles showed notable narrowing after the BSDW,and the high-value areas were found distributed closer to Chengdu and its surrounding areas.In the winter before the BSDW,most IM-containing particles(>70%)were mixed with organic carbon(OC)particles,and the contributions of OC and mixed organic–elemental carbon(OC-EC)particles increased with aggravation of pollution,whereas OC-EC and Metal particles played a more crucial role in the winter after the BSDW.展开更多
α-Synuclein accumulation and transmission are vital to the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease,although the mechanisms underlying misfoldedα-synuclein accumulation and propagation have not been conclusively dete...α-Synuclein accumulation and transmission are vital to the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease,although the mechanisms underlying misfoldedα-synuclein accumulation and propagation have not been conclusively determined.The expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1,which is abundantly expressed in neurons and considered to be a multifunctional endocytic receptor,is elevated in the neurons of patients with Parkinson's disease.However,whether there is a direct link between low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 andα-synuclein aggregation and propagation in Parkinson's disease remains unclear.Here,we established animal models of Parkinson's disease by inoculating monkeys and mice withα-synuclein pre-formed fibrils and observed elevated low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 levels in the striatum and substantia nigra,accompanied by dopaminergic neuron loss and increasedα-synuclein levels.However,low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 knockdown efficiently rescued dopaminergic neurodegeneration and inhibited the increase inα-synuclein levels in the nigrostriatal system.In HEK293A cells overexpressingα-synuclein fragments,low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 levels were upregulated only when the N-terminus ofα-synuclein was present,whereas anα-synuclein fragment lacking the N-terminus did not lead to low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 upregulation.Furthermore,the N-terminus ofα-synuclein was found to be rich in lysine residues,and blocking lysine residues in PC12 cells treated withα-synuclein pre-formed fibrils effectively reduced the elevated low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 andα-synuclein levels.These findings indicate that low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 regulates pathological transmission ofα-synuclein from the striatum to the substantia nigra in the nigrostriatal system via lysine residues in theα-synuclein N-terminus.展开更多
Diabetic retinopathy is a prominent cause of blindness in adults,with early retinal ganglion cell loss contributing to visual dysfunction or blindness.In the brain,defects inγ-aminobutyric acid synaptic transmission ...Diabetic retinopathy is a prominent cause of blindness in adults,with early retinal ganglion cell loss contributing to visual dysfunction or blindness.In the brain,defects inγ-aminobutyric acid synaptic transmission are associated with pathophysiological and neurodegenerative disorders,whereas glucagon-like peptide-1 has demonstrated neuroprotective effects.However,it is not yet clear whether diabetes causes alterations in inhibitory input to retinal ganglion cells and whether and how glucagon-like peptide-1 protects against neurodegeneration in the diabetic retina through regulating inhibitory synaptic transmission to retinal ganglion cells.In the present study,we used the patch-clamp technique to recordγ-aminobutyric acid subtype A receptor-mediated miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents in retinal ganglion cells from streptozotocin-induced diabetes model rats.We found that early diabetes(4 weeks of hyperglycemia)decreased the frequency of GABAergic miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents in retinal ganglion cells without altering their amplitude,suggesting a reduction in the spontaneous release ofγ-aminobutyric acid to retinal ganglion cells.Topical administration of glucagon-like peptide-1 eyedrops over a period of 2 weeks effectively countered the hyperglycemia-induced downregulation of GABAergic mIPSC frequency,subsequently enhancing the survival of retinal ganglion cells.Concurrently,the protective effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 on retinal ganglion cells in diabetic rats were eliminated by topical administration of exendin-9-39,a specific glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor antagonist,or SR95531,a specific antagonist of theγ-aminobutyric acid subtype A receptor.Furthermore,extracellular perfusion of glucagon-like peptide-1 was found to elevate the frequencies of GABAergic miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents in both ON-and OFF-type retinal ganglion cells.This elevation was shown to be mediated by activation of the phosphatidylinositol-phospholipase C/inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor/Ca2+/protein kinase C signaling pathway downstream of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor activation.Moreover,multielectrode array recordings revealed that glucagon-like peptide-1 functionally augmented the photoresponses of ON-type retinal ganglion cells.Optomotor response tests demonstrated that diabetic rats exhibited reductions in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity that were significantly ameliorated by topical administration of glucagon-like peptide-1.These results suggest that glucagon-like peptide-1 facilitates the release ofγ-aminobutyric acid onto retinal ganglion cells through the activation of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor,leading to the de-excitation of retinal ganglion cell circuits and the inhibition of excitotoxic processes associated with diabetic retinopathy.Collectively,our findings indicate that theγ-aminobutyric acid system has potential as a therapeutic target for mitigating early-stage diabetic retinopathy.Furthermore,the topical administration of glucagon-like peptide-1 eyedrops represents a non-invasive and effective treatment approach for managing early-stage diabetic retinopathy.展开更多
Theill-posed character of haze or fogmakes it difficult to remove froma single image.While most existing methods rely on a transmission map refined through depth estimation and assume a constant scattering coefficient...Theill-posed character of haze or fogmakes it difficult to remove froma single image.While most existing methods rely on a transmission map refined through depth estimation and assume a constant scattering coefficient,this assumption limits their effectiveness.In this paper,we propose an enhanced transmission map that incorporates spatially varying scattering information inherent in hazy images.To improve linearity,the model utilizes the ratio of the difference between intensity and saturation to their sum.Our approach also addresses critical issues such as edge preservation and color fidelity.In terms of qualitative as well as quantitative analysis,experimental outcomes show that the suggested framework is more effective than the currently used haze removal techniques.展开更多
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis regulates the secretion of glucoco rticoids in response to environmental challenges.In the brain,a nuclear receptor transcription fa ctor,the glucocorticoid recepto r,is an impo...The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis regulates the secretion of glucoco rticoids in response to environmental challenges.In the brain,a nuclear receptor transcription fa ctor,the glucocorticoid recepto r,is an important component of the hypothalamicpituitary-a d renal axis's negative feedback loop and plays a key role in regulating cognitive equilibrium and neuroplasticity.The glucoco rticoid receptor influences cognitive processes,including glutamate neurotransmission,calcium signaling,and the activation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor-mediated pathways,through a combination of genomic and non-genomic mechanisms.Protein interactions within the central nervous system can alter the expression and activity of the glucocorticoid receptor,there by affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-a d renal axis and stress-related cognitive functions.An appropriate level of glucocorticoid receptor expression can improve cognitive function,while excessive glucocorticoid receptors or long-term exposure to glucoco rticoids may lead to cognitive impairment.Patients with cognitive impairment-associated diseases,such as Alzheimer's disease,aging,depression,Parkinson's disease,Huntington's disease,stroke,and addiction,often present with dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and glucocorticoid receptor expression.This review provides a comprehensive overview of the functions of the glucoco rticoid receptor in the hypothalamic-pituitary-a d renal axis and cognitive activities.It emphasizes that appropriate glucocorticoid receptor signaling fa cilitates learning and memory,while its dysregulation can lead to cognitive impairment.This provides clues about how glucocorticoid receptor signaling can be targeted to ove rcome cognitive disability-related disorders.展开更多
The involvement of the excitatory amino acids glutamate and aspartate in ce rebral ischemia and excitotoxicity is well-documented.Nevertheless,the role of non-excitatory amino acids in brain damage following a stroke ...The involvement of the excitatory amino acids glutamate and aspartate in ce rebral ischemia and excitotoxicity is well-documented.Nevertheless,the role of non-excitatory amino acids in brain damage following a stroke or brain trauma remains largely understudied.The release of amino acids by necrotic cells in the ischemic core may contribute to the expansion of the penumbra.Our findings indicated that the reversible loss of field excitato ry postsynaptic potentials caused by transient hypoxia became irreversible when exposed to a mixture of just four non-excitatory amino acids(L-alanine,glycine,L-glutamine,and L-serine)at their plasma concentrations.These amino acids induce swelling in the somas of neurons and astrocytes during hypoxia,along with permanent dendritic damage mediated by N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors.Blocking N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors prevented neuronal damage in the presence of these amino acids during hypoxia.It is likely that astroglial swelling caused by the accumulation of these amino acids via the alanine-serine-cysteine transporter 2 exchanger and system N transporters activates volume-regulated anion channels,leading to the release of excitotoxins and subsequent neuronal damage through N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor activation.Thus,previously unrecognized mechanisms involving non-excitatory amino acids may contribute to the progression and expansion of brain injury in neurological emergencies such as stroke and traumatic brain injury.Understanding these pathways co uld highlight new therapeutic targets to mitigate brain injury.展开更多
Pain is often comorbid with emotional disorders such as anxiety and depression.Hyperexcitability of the anterior cingulate cortex has been implicated in pain and pain-related negative emotions that arise from impairme...Pain is often comorbid with emotional disorders such as anxiety and depression.Hyperexcitability of the anterior cingulate cortex has been implicated in pain and pain-related negative emotions that arise from impairments in inhibitory gamma-aminobutyric acid neurotransmission.This review primarily aims to outline the main circuitry(including the input and output connectivity)of the anterior cingulate cortex and classification and functions of different gamma-aminobutyric acidergic neurons;it also describes the neurotransmitters/neuromodulators affecting these neurons,their intercommunication with other neurons,and their importance in mental comorbidities associated with chronic pain disorders.Improving understanding on their role in pain-related mental comorbidities may facilitate the development of more effective treatments for these conditions.However,the mechanisms that regulate gamma-aminobutyric acidergic systems remain elusive.It is also unclear as to whether the mechanisms are presynaptic or postsynaptic.Further exploration of the complexities of this system may reveal new pathways for research and drug development.展开更多
BACKGROUND Transfusion transmissible infections(TTIs)are illnesses spread through contaminated blood or blood products.In India,screening for TTIs such as hepatitis B virus(HBV),hepatitis C virus(HCV),human immunodefi...BACKGROUND Transfusion transmissible infections(TTIs)are illnesses spread through contaminated blood or blood products.In India,screening for TTIs such as hepatitis B virus(HBV),hepatitis C virus(HCV),human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)-I/II,malaria,and syphilis is mandatory before blood transfusions.Worldwide,HCV,HBV,and HIV are the leading viruses causing mortality,affecting millions of people globally,including those with co-infections of HIV/HCV and HIV/HBV.Studies highlight the impact of TTIs on life expectancy and health risks,such as liver cirrhosis,cancer,and other diseases in individuals with chronic HBV.Globally,millions of blood donations take place annually,emphasizing the importance of maintaining blood safety.AIM To study the prevalence of TTIs,viz.,HBV,HCV,HIV I/II,syphilis,and malaria parasite(MP),among different blood donor groups.METHODS The study assessed the prevalence of TTIs among different blood donor groups in Delhi,India.Groups included total donors,in-house donors,total camp donors,institutional camp donors,and community camp donors.Tests for HIV,HBV,and HCV were done using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,while syphilis was tested with rapid plasma reagins and MP rapid card methods.The prevalence of HBV,HCV,HIV,and syphilis,expressed as percentages.Differences in infection rates between the groups were analyzed usingχ²tests and P-values(less than 0.05).RESULTS The study evaluated TTIs among 42158 blood donors in Delhi.The overall cumulative frequency of TTIs in total blood donors was 2.071%,and the frequencies of HBV,HCV,HIV-I/II,venereal disease research laboratory,and MP were 1.048%,0.425%,0.221%,0.377%,and 0.0024%,respectively.In-house donors,representing 37656 donors,had the highest transfusion transmissible infection(TTI)prevalence at 2.167%.Among total camp donors(4502 donors),TTIs were identified in 1.266%of donors,while community camp donors(2439 donors)exhibited a prevalence of 1.558%.Institutional camp donors(2063 donors)had the lowest TTI prevalence at 0.921%.Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in overall TTI prevalence,with total and in-house donors exhibiting higher rates compared to camp donors.CONCLUSION Ongoing monitoring and effective screening programs are essential for minimizing TTIs.Customizing blood safety measures for different donor groups and studying socio-economic-health factors is essential to improving blood safety.展开更多
文摘Many investigation techniques are commonly employed with the aim of estimating the spatial distribution of transmissivity. Unfortunately, the conventional methods for the determination of hydraulic parameters such as pumping tests, permeameter measurements and grain size analysis are invasive and relatively expensive. A geoelectric investigation involving vertical electrical sounding was carried in parts of Enugu town, Enugu state, Nigeria. The survey was aimed at extrapolating the result of pumping tests over an area. Using the Dar Zarrouk parameter, a β constant of 0.32 was found to translate resistivity to transmissivity with clay content as the primary factor controlling the hydraulic conductivity. Results of the study show a strong correlation between aquifer transmissivity and longitudinal conductance (R2 = 0.82). Estimation of aquifer transmissivity values based on the results of the resistivity measurements also made it possible to demarcate area with good groundwater potential in parts of Enugu town, Nigeria.
文摘During the long service period of a nuclear waste repository in crystalline rock,large earthquake(s)may occur nearby the repository site and coseismically alter the local stress field around pre-existing fractures within the geological formation.The resulting fracture normal/shear displacements may lead to fracture opening and further promote the transport of leaked radionuclides into the groundwater system.Thus,it is of central importance to analyze the consequences of potential future earthquake(s)on the hydrogeological properties of a repository site for spent nuclear fuel disposal.Based on the detailed site characterization data of the repository site at Forsmark,Sweden,we conduct a three-dimensional(3D)seismo-hydro-mechanical simulation using the 3Dimensional Distinct Element Code(3DEC).We explicitly represent a primary seismogenic fault zone and its surrounding secondary fracture network associated with a power-law size scaling and a Fisher orientation distribution.An earthquake with a magnitude of M_(w)=5.6 caused by the reactivation of the primary fault zone is modeled by simulating its transient rupture propagating radially outwards from a predefined hypocenter at a specified rupture speed,with the faulting dynamics controlled by a strength weakening law.We model the coseismic response of the off-fault fracture network subject to both static and dynamic triggering effects.We further diagnose the distribution of fracture hydro-mechanical properties(e.g.mechanical/hydraulic aperture,hydraulic transmissivity)before and after the earthquake in order to quantify earthquakeinduced hydraulic changes in the fracture network.It is found that earthquake-induced fracture transmissivity changes tend to follow a power-law decay with the distance to the earthquake fault.Our simulation results and insights obtained have important implications for the long-term performance assessment of nuclear waste repositories in fractured crystalline rocks.
文摘The application of geophysical methods in combination with pumping tests provides a cost-effective and efficient alternative to estimate aquifer parameters. In this study, nineteen Schlumberger vertical electrical soundings (VES) were occupied in parts of Bayelsa State using a maximum current electrode separation ranging beweeen 300 - 400 m with the aim of estimating the transmissivity of the alluvial aquifer in areas where no pumping test has been carried out. Four of the soundings were carried out near existing boreholes in which pumping test had been carried out. The VES data obtained was interpreted, and layer parameters such as true resistivities and thickness were determined. The geoelectric parameters were used to generate the Dar Zarrouk parameters. Correlating the Dar Zarrouk parameter (e.g longitudinal unit conductance) with transmissivity derived from pumping test data, a constant was found which translate longitudinal unit conductance to transmissivity in a hydrogeological setting where effective porosity is the primary control on resistivity and hydraulic conductivity. Transmissivity determined from the pumping test data range between 1634.0 - 5292.0 m2/day while transmissivity values estimated from the longitudinal unit conductance (Lc) range between 721 - 8991 m2/day. The transmissivity estimated from the pumping test (Tp) data and transmissivity estimated from the longitudinal conductance (Lc) on comparison show excellent correlation (R2 = 0.92). The high transmissivity values agree with the geology of the Benin Formation (Coastal Plain sands) consisting of fine-medium-coarse sands. The results give a useful first approximation of the transmissivity and could be used to site exploratory boreholes.
文摘Global dimming term was introduced in 1990s which means the decline in global radiation. This decline was reported in several studies across the world. In the present study time series analysis of global radiation (1960-2003), transmissivity (1960-2003) and bright sunshine hours (1973-2003) has been done over Nagpur during pre-monsoon (March to May) and monsoon seasons (June-September). A significant decrease in global radiation and transmissivity has been reported for both the seasons and it was higher during pre-monsoon compared to monsoon. Bright sunshine hour has also shown good agreement with the previous trend with a significant trend on pre-monsoon months only. Mann Kendall test was performed to confirm the significance of reported trend.
文摘This study was undertaken to determine the hydrologic properties of the aquifer materials at Ogbozara-Opi/Ekwegbe-Agu and environs by the estimation of the aquifer transmissivity using Dar Zarrouk parameters. The study area lies in the Anambra basin and is underlain, from bottom to top, by 3 prominent geologic formations;Enugu Formation, Mamu Formation and Ajali Formation respectively. A total of 19 sounding stations were occupied within the study area using the Ohmega resistivity meter. The VES data were interpreted using the conventional partial curve matching technique to obtain initial model parameters which were later used as input data for computer iterative modelling using the Interpex software. These analyses were further combined with information from two existing boreholes in the study area to estimate aquifer hydraulic parameters using Dar-Zarrouk parameters. The layer parameters thus obtained revealed that the dominant curve type obtained from the different formations is the AK curve type followed by the HK curve type. An average of 6 geo-electric layers were delineated across all transect taken with resistivity values ranging from 25.42 - 105.85 Ωm, 186.38 - 3383.3 Ωm and 2992.3 - 6286.4 Ωm in the Enugu, Mamu and Ajali Formations respectively. Results of the study revealed the aquifer resistivity in the study area ranges from 1 - 500 Ωm. The depth to the water table range from 13 - 208 m with a mean value of 76.05, while aquifer thickness varies between 95 and 140 m with a mean value of 102.89 m. The values of the Dar-Zarrouk parameters revealed that the transverse resistance varies between −10,000 - 170,000 Ωm<sup>2</sup>, while the longitudinal conductance varies from 0.1 - 1 to 1.9 Ω - 1. Similarly, the hydraulic conductivity in the area ranges from 5 to 50 m/day, while the transmissivity values range from 1000 to 14,000 m<sup>2</sup>/day.
基金supported by the National Basic Research Program of China(Grant No.2013CB733406)the National Natural Science Foundations of China(Grant No.41171266)
文摘Forests play an important role in the global carbon cycle and have a potential impact on global climatic change.Monitoring forest biomass is of considerable importance in understanding the hydrological cycle.Because of the problem of dense forest cover,no reliable method with which to retrieve soil moisture in forest areas from the microwave emission signature has been established.All of these issues relate to the microwave emissivity and transmissivity characteristics of a forest.The microwave emission contribution received by a sensor above a forest canopy comes from both the soil surface and the vegetation layer.To analyze the relationship of forest biomass and forest emission and transmissivity,a high-order emission model,the matrix-doubling model,which consists of both soil and vegetation models,was developed and then validated for a young deciduous forest stand in a field experiment.To simulate the emissivity and transmissivity of a deciduous forest in the L and X bands using the matrix-doubling model,the parameters of components of deciduous trees when the leaf area index varies from 1 to10 were generated by an L-system and a forest growth model.The emissivity and transmissivity of a forest and the relationships of these parameters to forest biomass are presented and analyzed in this paper.Emissivity in the L band when the leaf area index is less than 6 and at viewing angles less than 40°,and transmissivity in the L band are the most sensitive parameters in deciduous forest biomass estimation.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China:[Grant Number 41771400]National Natural Science Foundation of China:[Grant Number 41871248]Science and Technology Basic Resources Investigation Program of China‘Investigation on snow characteristics and their distribution in China’[Grant Number 2017FY100500].
文摘Forests have invariably been considered as an obstacle in retrieving land surface parameters from spaceborne passive microwave brightness temperature(T_(B))observations.For quantifying the effect of forests on microwave signals,several models have been developed.However,these models rarely reveal the dependence of microwave radiation on forest types,which can hardly meet the needs of high-accuracy retrieval of terrestrial parameters in forested regions.A ground-based microwave radiometric observation experiment was designed to investigate the dependence of microwave radiation on frequency,polarization,and forest type.Downward TB at 18.7-and 36.5-GHz for horizontal-and vertical-polarization from the forest canopy was measured at 14 sample plots in Northeast China,along with snowpack and forest structural parameters.By providing fits to experimental data,new empirical transmissivity models for three forest types were developed,as a function of woody stem volume and depending on the frequency/polarization.The proposed models give diverse asymptotic transmissivity saturation levels and the corresponding saturation point of woody stem volume for different forest types.Root-mean-square error results between T_(B) simulations and Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer-2 observations are approximately 3-6 K.This study provides an experimental and theoretical reference for further development of inversion models for snow parameters in forested areas.
文摘Space-Based Solar Power(SBSP) presents a promising solution for achieving carbon neutrality and Renewable Electricity 100%(RE100) goals by offering a stable and continuous energy supply. However, its commercialization faces significant obstacles due to the technical challenges of long-distance microwave Wireless Power Transmission(WPT) from geostationary orbit. Even ground-based kilometer-scale WPT experiments remain difficult because of limited testing infrastructure, high costs, and strict electromagnetic wave regulations. Since the 1975 NASA-Raytheon experiment, which successfully recovered 30 kW of power over 1.55 km, there has been little progress in extending the transmission distance or increasing the retrieved power. This study proposes a cost-effective methodology for conducting long-range WPT experiments in constrained environments by utilizing existing infrastructure. A deep space antenna operating at 2.08 GHz with an output power of 2.3 kW and a gain of 55.3 dBi was used as the transmitter. Two test configurations were implemented: a 1.81 km ground-to-air test using an aerostat to elevate the receiver and a 1.82 km ground-to-ground test using a ladder truck positioned on a plateau. The rectenna consists of a lightweight 3×3 patch antenna array(0.9 m × 0.9 m), accompanied by a steering device and LED indicators to verify power reception. The aerostat-based test achieved a power density of 154.6 mW/m2, which corresponds to approximately 6.2% of the theoretical maximum. The performance gap is primarily attributed to near-field interference, detuning of the patch antenna, rectifier mismatch, and alignment issues. These limitations are expected to be mitigated through improved patch antenna fabrication, a transition from GaN to GaAs rectifiers optimized for lower input power, and the implementation of an automated alignment system. With these enhancements, the recovered power is expected to improve by approximately four to five times. The results demonstrate a practical and scalable framework for long-range WPT experiments under constrained conditions and provide key insights for advancing SBSP technology.
文摘The efficiency and stability of catalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution(PHE)are largely governed by the charge transfer behaviors across the heterojunction interfaces.In this study,CuO,a typical semiconductor featuring a broad spectral absorption range,is successfully employed as the electron acceptor to combine with CdS for constructing a S-scheme heterojunction.The optimized photocatalyst(CdSCuO2∶1)delivers an exceptional hydrogen evolution rate of 18.89 mmol/(g·h),4.15-fold higher compared with bare CdS.X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS)and ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflection absorption spectroscopy(UV-vis DRS)confirmed the S-scheme band structure of the composites.Moreover,the surface photovoltage(SPV)and electron paramagnetic resonance(EPR)indicated that the photogenerated electrons and photogenerated holes of CdS-CuO2∶1 were respectively transferred to the conduction band(CB)of CdS with a higher reduction potential and the valence band(VB)of CuO with a higher oxidation potential under illumination,as expected for the S-scheme mechanism.Density-functional-theory calculations of the electron density difference(EDD)disclose an interfacial electric field oriented from CdS to CuO.This built-in field suppresses charge recombination and accelerates carrier migration,rationalizing the markedly enhanced PHE activity.This study offers a novel strategy for designing S-scheme heterojunctions with high light harvesting and charge utilization toward sustainable solar-tohydrogen conversion.
基金the support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. U20A20274, 52061003)the Natural Science Foundation of Yunnan Province, China (No. 202301AT070209)the Science and Technology Major Project of Yunnan Province, China (No. 202102AG050017)。
文摘The age-hardening response,mechanical,and corrosion-resistant properties of AA7085 alloys with and without the addition of 0.3 wt.%scandium(Sc)were compared.Using advanced techniques such as aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy and first-principles calculations,the underlying micromechanisms of Sc microalloying were revealed.Results show that the increase in strength of the AA7085-Sc alloy is mainly attributed to the decreased Al grain size and increased number density of both Al_(3)Sc@Al_(3)(Sc,Zr)core−shell nanoparticles and Sc-containingη_(p) and GP−η_(p) nanoprecipitates.Strong strain fields and evident electron transfer from Zr to the neighboring matrix Al atoms exist at the Al_(3)Sc@Al_(3)(Sc,Zr)/Al interface.The Sc doping in GP−η_(p) andη_(p) suppresses the GP−η_(p)→η_(p) transformation.Modified corrosion resistance of the AA7085-Sc alloy compared with AA7085 alloy is associated with the fine grain boundary precipitates ofη_(p)hases and narrow precipitation free zone.The reasons of property changes of AA7085 alloy after Sc microalloying are explored based on the multiscale microstructural characterization.
基金supported by Science and Technology Project of the headquarters of the State Grid Corporation of China(No.5500-202324492A-3-2-ZN).
文摘To enhance power flow regulation in scenarios involving large-scale renewable energy transmission via high-voltage direct current(HVDC)links and multi-infeed DC systems in load-center regions,this paper proposes a hybrid modular multilevel converter–capacitor-commutated line-commutated converter(MMC-CLCC)HVDC transmission system and its corresponding control strategy.First,the system topology is constructed,and a submodule configuration method for the MMC—combining full-bridge submodules(FBSMs)and half-bridge submodules(HBSMs)—is proposed to enable direct power flow reversal.Second,a hierarchical control strategy is introduced,includingMMCvoltage control,CLCC current control,and a coordinationmechanism,along with the derivation of the hybrid system’s power flow reversal characteristics.Third,leveraging the CLCC’s fast current regulation and theMMC’s negative voltage control capability,a coordinated power flow reversal control strategy is developed.Finally,an 800 kV MMC-CLCC hybrid HVDC system is modeled in PSCAD/EMTDC to validate the power flow reversal performance under a high proportion of full-bridge submodule configuration.Results demonstrate that the proposed control strategy enables rapid(1-s transition)and smooth switching of bidirectional power flow without modifying the structure of primary equipment:the transient fluctuation ofDC voltage from the rated value(UdcN)to themaximumreverse voltage(-kUdcN)is less than 5%;the DC current strictly follows the preset characteristic curve with a deviation of≤3%;the active power reverses continuously,and the system maintains stable operation throughout the reversal process.
基金supported by Sichuan Science and Technology Program(No.2024NSFSC0060)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.U23A2030)the Basic Research Cultivation Support Plan of Southwest Jiaotong University(No.2682023ZTPY016).
文摘Imidazole(IM)particles in the atmosphere affect climate,atmospheric chemical reactions,and human health.However,research on IM particles in the Sichuan Basin(SCB),one of the areas of China affected most heavily by haze,remains very scarce.This study used single-particle aerosol mass spectrometry to investigate IM-containing particles in Chengdu,one of the megacities in the SCB,during summer and winter before and after implemen-tation of the Three-year Action Plan to Win the Blue-Sky Defense War(BSDW).We found that IM-containing particles accounted for 1.2%–12.0%of all detected particles,and they highly mixed with carbonaceous com-ponents,secondary inorganic species,and organic nitrogen.From before to after the BSDW,the proportion of IM-containing particles decreased by 1.8%in summer,but increased by 9.6%in winter.Ammonium/amines and carbonyl compounds were closely related to IM-containing particles;the highest proportion of IM-containing particles occurred in particles mixed with amines and carbonyls.The number fraction of IM-containing particles in all seasons was higher at night than during daytime.The potential source areas of IM-containing particles showed notable narrowing after the BSDW,and the high-value areas were found distributed closer to Chengdu and its surrounding areas.In the winter before the BSDW,most IM-containing particles(>70%)were mixed with organic carbon(OC)particles,and the contributions of OC and mixed organic–elemental carbon(OC-EC)particles increased with aggravation of pollution,whereas OC-EC and Metal particles played a more crucial role in the winter after the BSDW.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Guangxi Zhuang Automomous Region,Nos.2019GXNSFDA245015(to MC),2022GXNSFBA035654(to HL)the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82360241(to MC),82304876(to HL)+1 种基金Scientific Research and Technology Development Project of Guilin City,Nos.20220139-3(to MC),20210218-5(to HL)Guangxi Medical and Health Key Discipline Construction Project(to QL)。
文摘α-Synuclein accumulation and transmission are vital to the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease,although the mechanisms underlying misfoldedα-synuclein accumulation and propagation have not been conclusively determined.The expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1,which is abundantly expressed in neurons and considered to be a multifunctional endocytic receptor,is elevated in the neurons of patients with Parkinson's disease.However,whether there is a direct link between low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 andα-synuclein aggregation and propagation in Parkinson's disease remains unclear.Here,we established animal models of Parkinson's disease by inoculating monkeys and mice withα-synuclein pre-formed fibrils and observed elevated low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 levels in the striatum and substantia nigra,accompanied by dopaminergic neuron loss and increasedα-synuclein levels.However,low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 knockdown efficiently rescued dopaminergic neurodegeneration and inhibited the increase inα-synuclein levels in the nigrostriatal system.In HEK293A cells overexpressingα-synuclein fragments,low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 levels were upregulated only when the N-terminus ofα-synuclein was present,whereas anα-synuclein fragment lacking the N-terminus did not lead to low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 upregulation.Furthermore,the N-terminus ofα-synuclein was found to be rich in lysine residues,and blocking lysine residues in PC12 cells treated withα-synuclein pre-formed fibrils effectively reduced the elevated low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 andα-synuclein levels.These findings indicate that low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 regulates pathological transmission ofα-synuclein from the striatum to the substantia nigra in the nigrostriatal system via lysine residues in theα-synuclein N-terminus.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.32070989(to YMZ),31872766(to YMZ),81790640(to XLY),and 82070993(to SJW)the grant from Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen,No.SZSM202011015(to XLY)。
文摘Diabetic retinopathy is a prominent cause of blindness in adults,with early retinal ganglion cell loss contributing to visual dysfunction or blindness.In the brain,defects inγ-aminobutyric acid synaptic transmission are associated with pathophysiological and neurodegenerative disorders,whereas glucagon-like peptide-1 has demonstrated neuroprotective effects.However,it is not yet clear whether diabetes causes alterations in inhibitory input to retinal ganglion cells and whether and how glucagon-like peptide-1 protects against neurodegeneration in the diabetic retina through regulating inhibitory synaptic transmission to retinal ganglion cells.In the present study,we used the patch-clamp technique to recordγ-aminobutyric acid subtype A receptor-mediated miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents in retinal ganglion cells from streptozotocin-induced diabetes model rats.We found that early diabetes(4 weeks of hyperglycemia)decreased the frequency of GABAergic miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents in retinal ganglion cells without altering their amplitude,suggesting a reduction in the spontaneous release ofγ-aminobutyric acid to retinal ganglion cells.Topical administration of glucagon-like peptide-1 eyedrops over a period of 2 weeks effectively countered the hyperglycemia-induced downregulation of GABAergic mIPSC frequency,subsequently enhancing the survival of retinal ganglion cells.Concurrently,the protective effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 on retinal ganglion cells in diabetic rats were eliminated by topical administration of exendin-9-39,a specific glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor antagonist,or SR95531,a specific antagonist of theγ-aminobutyric acid subtype A receptor.Furthermore,extracellular perfusion of glucagon-like peptide-1 was found to elevate the frequencies of GABAergic miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents in both ON-and OFF-type retinal ganglion cells.This elevation was shown to be mediated by activation of the phosphatidylinositol-phospholipase C/inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor/Ca2+/protein kinase C signaling pathway downstream of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor activation.Moreover,multielectrode array recordings revealed that glucagon-like peptide-1 functionally augmented the photoresponses of ON-type retinal ganglion cells.Optomotor response tests demonstrated that diabetic rats exhibited reductions in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity that were significantly ameliorated by topical administration of glucagon-like peptide-1.These results suggest that glucagon-like peptide-1 facilitates the release ofγ-aminobutyric acid onto retinal ganglion cells through the activation of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor,leading to the de-excitation of retinal ganglion cell circuits and the inhibition of excitotoxic processes associated with diabetic retinopathy.Collectively,our findings indicate that theγ-aminobutyric acid system has potential as a therapeutic target for mitigating early-stage diabetic retinopathy.Furthermore,the topical administration of glucagon-like peptide-1 eyedrops represents a non-invasive and effective treatment approach for managing early-stage diabetic retinopathy.
基金The Deanship of Research and Graduate Studies at King Khalid University funded this work through a Large Research Project under grant number RGP2/274/46.
文摘Theill-posed character of haze or fogmakes it difficult to remove froma single image.While most existing methods rely on a transmission map refined through depth estimation and assume a constant scattering coefficient,this assumption limits their effectiveness.In this paper,we propose an enhanced transmission map that incorporates spatially varying scattering information inherent in hazy images.To improve linearity,the model utilizes the ratio of the difference between intensity and saturation to their sum.Our approach also addresses critical issues such as edge preservation and color fidelity.In terms of qualitative as well as quantitative analysis,experimental outcomes show that the suggested framework is more effective than the currently used haze removal techniques.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82371444(to YZ)the Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province,No.2022CFB216(to XC)the Key Research Project of Ministry of Science and Technology of China,No.2022ZD021160(to YZ)。
文摘The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis regulates the secretion of glucoco rticoids in response to environmental challenges.In the brain,a nuclear receptor transcription fa ctor,the glucocorticoid recepto r,is an important component of the hypothalamicpituitary-a d renal axis's negative feedback loop and plays a key role in regulating cognitive equilibrium and neuroplasticity.The glucoco rticoid receptor influences cognitive processes,including glutamate neurotransmission,calcium signaling,and the activation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor-mediated pathways,through a combination of genomic and non-genomic mechanisms.Protein interactions within the central nervous system can alter the expression and activity of the glucocorticoid receptor,there by affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-a d renal axis and stress-related cognitive functions.An appropriate level of glucocorticoid receptor expression can improve cognitive function,while excessive glucocorticoid receptors or long-term exposure to glucoco rticoids may lead to cognitive impairment.Patients with cognitive impairment-associated diseases,such as Alzheimer's disease,aging,depression,Parkinson's disease,Huntington's disease,stroke,and addiction,often present with dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and glucocorticoid receptor expression.This review provides a comprehensive overview of the functions of the glucoco rticoid receptor in the hypothalamic-pituitary-a d renal axis and cognitive activities.It emphasizes that appropriate glucocorticoid receptor signaling fa cilitates learning and memory,while its dysregulation can lead to cognitive impairment.This provides clues about how glucocorticoid receptor signaling can be targeted to ove rcome cognitive disability-related disorders.
基金supported by MICIU(grant number PID2021-128133NB-100/AEI/FEDER10.13039/501100011033 to JMHG)by the National Institutes of Health(grant number R01 NS083858 to SAK)+1 种基金the Intramural Grants Program IGPP00057(to SAK)VIC enjoys a FPU contract from the Comunidad de Madrid(PIPF-2022/SAL-GL-25948)。
文摘The involvement of the excitatory amino acids glutamate and aspartate in ce rebral ischemia and excitotoxicity is well-documented.Nevertheless,the role of non-excitatory amino acids in brain damage following a stroke or brain trauma remains largely understudied.The release of amino acids by necrotic cells in the ischemic core may contribute to the expansion of the penumbra.Our findings indicated that the reversible loss of field excitato ry postsynaptic potentials caused by transient hypoxia became irreversible when exposed to a mixture of just four non-excitatory amino acids(L-alanine,glycine,L-glutamine,and L-serine)at their plasma concentrations.These amino acids induce swelling in the somas of neurons and astrocytes during hypoxia,along with permanent dendritic damage mediated by N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors.Blocking N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors prevented neuronal damage in the presence of these amino acids during hypoxia.It is likely that astroglial swelling caused by the accumulation of these amino acids via the alanine-serine-cysteine transporter 2 exchanger and system N transporters activates volume-regulated anion channels,leading to the release of excitotoxins and subsequent neuronal damage through N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor activation.Thus,previously unrecognized mechanisms involving non-excitatory amino acids may contribute to the progression and expansion of brain injury in neurological emergencies such as stroke and traumatic brain injury.Understanding these pathways co uld highlight new therapeutic targets to mitigate brain injury.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82374561(to JD),82174490(to JF)the Medical and Health Science and Technology Program of Zhejiang Province,No.2021RC098(to JD)the Research Project of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University,Nos.2022JKZKTS44(to JD),2022FSYYZZ07(to JF).
文摘Pain is often comorbid with emotional disorders such as anxiety and depression.Hyperexcitability of the anterior cingulate cortex has been implicated in pain and pain-related negative emotions that arise from impairments in inhibitory gamma-aminobutyric acid neurotransmission.This review primarily aims to outline the main circuitry(including the input and output connectivity)of the anterior cingulate cortex and classification and functions of different gamma-aminobutyric acidergic neurons;it also describes the neurotransmitters/neuromodulators affecting these neurons,their intercommunication with other neurons,and their importance in mental comorbidities associated with chronic pain disorders.Improving understanding on their role in pain-related mental comorbidities may facilitate the development of more effective treatments for these conditions.However,the mechanisms that regulate gamma-aminobutyric acidergic systems remain elusive.It is also unclear as to whether the mechanisms are presynaptic or postsynaptic.Further exploration of the complexities of this system may reveal new pathways for research and drug development.
文摘BACKGROUND Transfusion transmissible infections(TTIs)are illnesses spread through contaminated blood or blood products.In India,screening for TTIs such as hepatitis B virus(HBV),hepatitis C virus(HCV),human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)-I/II,malaria,and syphilis is mandatory before blood transfusions.Worldwide,HCV,HBV,and HIV are the leading viruses causing mortality,affecting millions of people globally,including those with co-infections of HIV/HCV and HIV/HBV.Studies highlight the impact of TTIs on life expectancy and health risks,such as liver cirrhosis,cancer,and other diseases in individuals with chronic HBV.Globally,millions of blood donations take place annually,emphasizing the importance of maintaining blood safety.AIM To study the prevalence of TTIs,viz.,HBV,HCV,HIV I/II,syphilis,and malaria parasite(MP),among different blood donor groups.METHODS The study assessed the prevalence of TTIs among different blood donor groups in Delhi,India.Groups included total donors,in-house donors,total camp donors,institutional camp donors,and community camp donors.Tests for HIV,HBV,and HCV were done using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,while syphilis was tested with rapid plasma reagins and MP rapid card methods.The prevalence of HBV,HCV,HIV,and syphilis,expressed as percentages.Differences in infection rates between the groups were analyzed usingχ²tests and P-values(less than 0.05).RESULTS The study evaluated TTIs among 42158 blood donors in Delhi.The overall cumulative frequency of TTIs in total blood donors was 2.071%,and the frequencies of HBV,HCV,HIV-I/II,venereal disease research laboratory,and MP were 1.048%,0.425%,0.221%,0.377%,and 0.0024%,respectively.In-house donors,representing 37656 donors,had the highest transfusion transmissible infection(TTI)prevalence at 2.167%.Among total camp donors(4502 donors),TTIs were identified in 1.266%of donors,while community camp donors(2439 donors)exhibited a prevalence of 1.558%.Institutional camp donors(2063 donors)had the lowest TTI prevalence at 0.921%.Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in overall TTI prevalence,with total and in-house donors exhibiting higher rates compared to camp donors.CONCLUSION Ongoing monitoring and effective screening programs are essential for minimizing TTIs.Customizing blood safety measures for different donor groups and studying socio-economic-health factors is essential to improving blood safety.
