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Magnesite (MgCO3) entering the lower mantle together with the subducted oceanic crust is an important carbon carrier. The reaction between magnesite and mantle minerals has been documented, but its influence on the density and velocity profiles of lower mantle remains unexplored. To decipher the deep carbon transportation and its associated effect, here we determined the thermal equations of state of magnesite up to 120 GPa and 2600 K using X‐ray diffraction in laser‐heated diamond anvil cells. The obtained thermal elastic parameters of magnesite facilitated a comprehensive understanding on the influence of magnesite‐SiO2 reaction, variation of carbon and SiO2 content, and temperature on the origin of lower‐mantle scatterers at 1,000–1,800 km depth. Our modeling revealed that the depth of the lower‐mantle VS scatterers is mainly controlled by the Al2O3 content in SiO2, while its magnitude depends on the SiO2 content. Along normal geotherm, the magnesite‐SiO2 reaction would occur before the post‐stishovite transition, consuming substantial SiO2 in the subducted oceanic crust. Depending on the amount of residual SiO2, the post‐stishovite transition can produce a 2.5–5.2 (2)% VS reduction, compatible with the observed seismic scatterers in Izu‐Bonin and Mariana subduction zones. Along slab geotherm, this reaction occurs after the post‐stishovite transition, generating a greater VS reduction of 4.4–6.4 (4)%. We thus propose that the reaction between sinking MgCO3 and SiO2 in the slab is one of the potential factors influencing the magnitude of the lower‐Vs scatterers at 1,000–1,900 km depth. Our results provide new insights into the deep‐mantle carbonate transportation influencing regional geophysics. Plain Language Summary: Carbonates could enter the deep Earth with the subducted oceanic crust. Magnesite is the most likely carbonate to exist stably in the lower mantle. During the subduction process, magnesite would interact with subducted oceanic crust and influence the density and velocity structure of the lower mantle. Here we determined the thermal equations of state (EoS) of magnesite up to 120 GPa and 2600 K. With the obtained EoS parameters, we discussed the influence of magnesite‐SiO2 reaction, variation of carbon, SiO2 content, and temperature on the velocity and density profiles across the post‐stishovite phase transition of SiO2 and explain the origin of lower‐mantle VS scatterers at 1,000–1,900 km depth. Our findings reveal that the depth and magnitude of lower‐mantle VS scatterers depend on Al2O3 content in SiO2 and SiO2 content, respectively. With the variation of temperature and residual SiO2 content of the reaction, the post‐stishovite phase transition of SiO2 can generate a VS reduction in the range of 2.5%–6.4%. Our findings are important in understanding deep‐mantle carbonate transportation and its implications for regional Geophysics. Key Points: The velocity change across the MgCO3‐SiO2 reaction were modeled, with the determined thermal EoS of magnesite up to 120 GPa and 2600 KThe VS reduction during the post‐stv transition could be influence by temperature, CO2 and SiO2 content, and Al content in SiO2The post‐stv transition and the reaction between SiO2 and MgCO3 could explain the lower‐VS scatterers at 1,000–1,900 km depth [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the effects of water and carbon on the velocity profiles of subducted oceanic crust in the upper mantle. High pressure and temperature Brillouin measurements were conducted to determine the single‐crystal elasticity of aragonite (CaCO3) up to 20 GPa and 600 K, respectively. Using the finite‐strain method, we determined the elastic parameters: KS0 = 70.7 GPa, G0 = 36.1(3) GPa with KS′ = 5.0(1), G′ = 1.3(1), ∂KS/∂T = −0.020(2) GPa/K, and ∂G/∂T = −0.015(1) GPa/K. When combined with literature results, our findings reveal that neither hydrous minerals nor carbonate alone can explain the observed 3%–4% and 3%–7% low velocity anomalies in the compressional (VP) and shear‐wave (VS) velocities of subducted oceanic crust in the circum‐Pacific region at 150–250 km depth. Considering the combined effect of water and carbonate, the addition of 5.9–6.9 vol.% aragonite together with 10 vol.% lawsonite in the oceanic crust can produce a 3%–4% and 6.1%–8.1% low velocity anomalies in the VP and VS at 150–250 km depth, respectively, consistent with the seismic observations in the region. Complete dehydration of lawsonite accompanied by the gradual decarbonization of the subducted oceanic crust explains the absence of low‐velocity anomalies below 300‐km depth. Our findings help for a better understanding of the possible influence of carbon and water on seismic velocities of the mantle. As a result, the circulation of carbon and water may be better understood while taking the complex velocity structure of subduction zones and mineral physics findings into account. Plain Language Summary: The subducting slab generally exhibits higher wave velocities than the normal mantle due to its lower temperatures. However, seismological studies have detected the existence of 3%–4% and 3%–7% low compressional (VP) and shear‐wave (VS) velocity anomalies in the subducted oceanic crust at 150–250 km depth in the circum‐Pacific region, respectively, which cannot be explained by water (lawsonite) alone. Our new experimental constraints on the single‐crystal elasticity of aragonite up to 20 GPa and 600 K indicate that aragonite, along with water, can significantly reduce the velocity of mid‐ocean ridge basalts which constitute a major component of the subducted oceanic crust. The presence of 5.9–6.9 vol.% aragonite together with 10 vol.% lawsonite can make the VP and VS of subducted oceanic crust 3%–4% and 6.1%–8.1% lower than surrounding mantle, respectively. Below 300‐km depth, subducted oceanic crust will be seismically detected as a high‐velocity structure due to complete dehydration of lawsonite and gradual decarbonization with aragonite content less than 8 vol.%. These findings contribute to our understanding of the complex relationship between carbon, water, and depth‐dependent velocity anomalies in the subduction process. Key Points: Single‐crystal elasticity of aragonite was determined to 20 GPa and 600 K, showing the lowest VP and VS compared to magnesite and dolomiteThe obtained results were used to model the velocity profiles of the subducted oceanic crust in the upper mantleThe low‐velocity anomalies within the subducted oceanic crust at 150–250 km depth should be a net effect of water and carbon [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated two random forest (RF) models for the non‐iterative parametrization of surface‐layer turbulent fluxes: (a) the RF scheme, a calculation model that is directly trained using correlated variables, and (b) the RF_Li10 scheme, a random forest correction model based on the Li10 scheme (Li et al., 2010, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10546-010-9523-y). A comparison between these two new models and the Li10 scheme against an iterative scheme revealed the hierarchy of maximum relative errors in estimating stability parameters, as well as momentum and heat transfer coefficients. This hierarchy is as follows: the Li10 scheme is the greatest, followed by the RF scheme, with the RF_Li10 scheme exhibiting the least errors. Plain Language Summary: The computation module for surface‐layer turbulent fluxes is an essential component of numerical weather prediction models. Based on the Monin‐Obukhov Similarity Theory, many parameterization schemes for surface fluxes have been proposed. With the advancement of artificial intelligence, machine learning methods have been applied in meteorology. This study applies the RF model in machine learning to the parametrization of surface‐layer turbulent fluxes. The RF scheme directly calculates the stability parameter after training, and the RF_Li10 scheme is designed to refine the stability parameter derived from the Li10 scheme, by utilizing the RF algorithm for this correction process. In addition, the two new schemes have also been used to calculate the momentum and heat transfer coefficients. The values calculated from the Li10 scheme, RF scheme, and RF_Li10 scheme are compared with the values calculated from the iterative scheme. Under different surface roughness conditions, the average relative errors of the stability parameter obtained from the Li10 scheme, RF scheme, and RF_Li10 scheme are 3.17%, 3.42%, and 0.17%, respectively; the maximum average relative errors of the stability parameter are 5.67%, 3.52%, and 0.52% respectively. Key Points: Two Random Forest models (RF and RF_Li10) for the non‐iterative parametrization of near‐surface turbulent fluxes are proposedCompared to the iterative schemes and existing parameterization schemes, the RF_Li10 scheme exhibits the lowest calculation errorCompared to the iterative schemes, the RF scheme and RF_Li10 scheme reduce the computation time by 91.0% and 78.4%, respectively [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A model-free fractional-order sliding mode control (MFFOSMC) method based on a non-linear disturbance observer is proposed for the electric drive system in this paper. Firstly, the ultra-local model is established by using the mathematical model of electric drive system under parameter perturbation. Then, aiming at reducing the chattering of the sliding mode controller and improving the transient response, a model-free fractional-order sliding mode controller is designed based on fractional-order theory. Next, considering that the traditional sliding mode control can only suppress matched disturbance and that it is sensitive to mismatched disturbance, a non-linear disturbance observer is used to estimate disturbance, and the estimated variables are used in the design of a sliding mode surface to improve the tracking accuracy of the system. Finally, the experiment is completed on an asynchronous motor drive platform. Compared with the model-free integer-order sliding mode control (MFIOSMC), the results show that the proposed method has good dynamic response and strong robustness. Meanwhile, the proposed method reduces the dependence on mathematical models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In this study, we have determined the single‐crystal elasticity of clinohumite [Mg8.85Ti0.19Si3.93O16(OH1.11F0.89)] using Brillouin measurement up to 21 GPa at 300 K and 1 bar at 750 K, respectively. The elasticity of clinohumite was determined to be KS0 = 126.2(3) GPa, G0 = 79.7(2) GPa with pressure derivatives KS′ = 4.2(1), G′ = 1.3(1), pressure derivatives ∂KS/∂T = −0.024(1) GPa/K, and ∂G/∂T = −0.011(1) GPa/K). We comprehensively examined the effects of varying H2O, fluorine content and thermal states, on the velocity and density structures of the subducted harzburgite layer. Assuming a typical H2O content of 2 wt.% within harzburgite, our modeling has shown that hydrous harzburgite with clinohumite as the decomposition product of serpentine along a hot slab geotherm even has the VP and VS 0.4–0.8(6)% greater than it dry counterpart at 250–380 km depth. Yet in the top transition zone, the addition of H2O and F can effectively lower the sound velocities and density. The F‐bearing hydrous harzburgite has the VP and VS 1.1(5)–1.3(3)% lower than its dry counterpart, and only 0.6(5)% and 2.3(5)% greater than the pyrolitic mantle. Along cold slab geotherm, phase A will replace clinohumite as the dominant hydrous phase in the harzburgite, the VP and VS are 4.8(5)–5.3(3)% and 5.9(5)–6.0(3)% greater than the pyrolitic mantle in the upper mantle. In the top transition zone, the difference is approximately 3% in VP and 5% in VS. Our results provide crucial experimental evidence for future assessments of the seismic signals of subducted slabs with different hydrous minerals and thermal states. Plain Language Summary: Subducted slab plays a crucial role in connecting the Earth's surface to the interior. Transportation of H2O and other important volatiles to the Earth's mantle via subducted slab can greatly influence a series of physical properties of mantle minerals. Clinohumite is one of the most important H2O and fluorine (F) carriers in the subducted slab. Here, we determined the single‐crystal elasticity of F‐bearing clinohumite at high pressures and temperatures. The obtained elasticity data were applied to model the velocity profiles of the hydrous harzburgite. Our results show that the addition of H2O and F can enhance the velocity difference between harzburgite and pyrolitic mantle at 250–380 km depth along the hot slab geotherm, and VP and VS of harzburgite with 2 wt.% H2O and clinohumite as the H2O‐bearing phase are 0.4–0.8(6)% greater than those of dry harzburgite. In the transition zone depth, addition of H2O and Fe lowers the sound velocities of harzburgite. Hydrous harzburgite has a lower VP and VS than its corresponding dry phase. These new velocity constraints can help us better understand the circulation of H2O and F within Earth's interior and identify the detected seismic observations of subducted slabs with different compositions and thermal states. Key Points: Single‐crystal elasticity of F‐bearing clinohumite was determined to 21 GPa and 750 K and shows strong dependence with F contentThe obtained results were used to model the velocity profiles of the hydrous harzburgite layer considering the thermal state and compositionH2O and F in clinohumite have significant influence on the velocity profile of subduction slab [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orthopyroxene is one of the dominant minerals in the Earth's upper mantle. In this study, we used Raman spectroscopy to investigate the lattice vibration and phase transition of orthopyroxene with four different compositions using diamond-anvil cells up to 34 GPa at 300 K. Our orthopyroxene samples contain 0 (En100), 9% (En91Fs9), 11% (En86Fs11), and 21% (En74Fs21) Fe. At ambient conditions, the Raman modes exhibit a negative dependence on the Fe content, with the exception of the modes at ~850 and 930 cm–1. In contrast, these two Raman modes increase with increasing the Fe content. The phase transition from metastable α- to β-phase was observed at 12.9–15 GPa for samples with <21 mol% Fe and varying Fe content has a minor effect on the phase transition pressure. Besides Fe, incorporation of 2–24 mol% Al can cause an increase in the phase transition pressure from 10–13 to 14–16 GPa. At 29–30.1 GPa, we observed the second apparent change in the Raman spectra for all four investigated samples. For Fe-bearing orthopyroxene, this change in the Raman spectra and frequency shift is associated with the phase transition from β- to γ-phase, whereas for En100, it should be caused by the change of coordination number of Si from 4 to 6 or the presence of α-popx phase. Using the obtained Raman frequency shifts, we calculated the Grüneisen parameters at high pressures. These parameters are useful for understanding the thermoelastic properties of orthopyroxene at high pressures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The atmosphere occurrence of the most frequency used halogenated flame retardants (HFRs), including "old" chemicals such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), tetrabromobisphenol A, hexabromocyclododecanes, and "new" chemicals such as decabromodiphenyl ethane, dechlorane plus, and short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) were mainly reviewed. From data collected, these chemicals have reached all corners of the globe, and the atmospheric concentrations of HFRs were closely associated with production and usage of commercial products. The highest air concentrations of HFRs were measured at industrial and urban area with higher population density. The levels of "old" HFRs are decreasing or leveling off, while the "new" groups continue to grow. In addition, a large number of potential transformation products were also tentatively discovered and a few were structurally identified in both atmosphere and biota. Dehalogenation appears to be the most important atmospheric degradation processes. While, in animals and human body, the hydroxylated metabolites are of significant concern due to enhanced toxicological effects. However, due to limited availability of authentic standards, only a few compounds, such as hydroxylated PBDEs have been identified in the atmospheric environments and biota. Further studies are needed to elucidate possible transformation pathways and to enhance the monitoring of transformation products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The epigenome may be an important interface between exposure to environmental contaminants and adverse outcome on human health. Many environmental pollutants deregulate gene expression and promote diseases by modulating the epigenome. Adverse epigenetic responses have been widely used for risk assessment of chemical substances. Various pollutants, including trace elements and persistent organic pollutants, have been detected frequently in the environment. Epigenetic toxicity of environmental matrices including water, air, soil, and food cannot be ignored. This review provides a comprehensive overview of epigenetic effects of pollutants and environmental matrices. We start with an overview of the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation and the effects of several types of environmental pollutants (trace elements, persistent organic pollutants, endocrine disrupting chemicals, and volatile organic pollutants) on epigenetic modulation. We then discuss the epigenetic responses to environmental water, air, and soil based on in vivo and in vitro assays. Finally, we discuss recommendations to promote the incorporation of epigenotoxicity into contamination screening and health risk assessment. Image 1097 • Integrate review of epigenetic profiles of environmental exposure. • Epigenetic markers as linkage between pollutants exposure and adverse outcomes. • Progress of epigenetic modulations as risk assessment indicators on various matrices. • Epigenetic responses incorporated into epigenotoxicant screening and risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Several in vitro methods for simulating human gastrointestinal digestion have been validated for predicting the bioavailability of heavy metals, but the methods for successfully predicting the bioavailability of organic pollutants are still limited. In this study, we used an adapted fasting in vitro digestion method (Fa-VDM) from the Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem and four other in vitro methods comprising In Vitro Gastrointestinal, a physiologically-based extraction test, the unified BARGE method, and Deutsches Institut für Normung e.V. in order to measure the bioaccessibility of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in soils from an e-waste dismantling town, China, with a Standard Reference Material (SRM2585) as the control. Furthermore, the bioaccessibility data were compared with the bioavailability measured using female C57BL/6 mice. The bioavailability of PBDEs in the soils and SRM2585 were 1.7% to 38.1% and 3.9% to 48.8%, respectively, and the bioaccessibility determined using Fa-VDM were 1.6–55.4% and 6.7–32.1%. There were negative and parabolic correlations between octanol/water partition coefficient for PBDEs and the bioavailability and bioaccessibility, respectively, whereas the H/C ratios and organic matter contents of the soils did not correlate with them. The bioaccessibility data determined by Fa-VDM were generally higher than those obtained using the other four methods, mainly due to the higher bile concentration and larger liquid to solid ratio in the digestion solution in Fa-VDM. There was a significant linear relationship between the results according to the in vivo and in vitro method of Fa-VDM where the slopes varied from 0.83 to 1.16 (R2 > 0.73) and intercepts from 0.3%–7.7% for BDE47, 99, 100, and 153 measured using Fa-VDM, thereby indicating that the bioaccessibility assessed by this method can potentially be used to predict the bioavailability of moderately brominated congeners in soils. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Bioaccessibility of PBDEs in soils and SRM2585 were tested by five in vitro methods. • Fa-VDM evaluated with in vivo assay using female C57BL/6 mice. • The Log K OW of PBDEs had negative effects on the bioavailability. • There was a parabolic correlation between Log K OW and bioaccessibility of PBDEs. • Fa-VDM can test bioaccessibility and predict bioavailability of some PBDEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Mast cells (MCs) are innate immune cells that are scattered in tissues throughout the organism being particularly abundant at sites exposed to the environment such as the skin and mucosal surfaces. Generally known for their role in IgE‐mediated allergies, they have also important functions in the maintenance of tissue integrity by constantly sensing their microenvironment for signals by inflammatory triggers that can comprise infectious agents, toxins, hormones, alarmins, metabolic states, etc. When triggered their main function is to release a whole set of inflammatory mediators, cytokines, chemokines, and lipid products. This allows them to organize the ensuing innate immune and inflammatory response in tight coordination with resident tissue cells, other rapidly recruited immune effector cells as well as the endocrine and exocrine systems of the body. To complete these tasks, MCs are endowed with a large repertoire of receptors allowing them to respond to multiple stimuli or directly interact with other cells. Here we review some of the receptors expressed on MCs (ie, receptors for Immunoglobulins, pattern recognition receptors, nuclear receptors, receptors for alarmins, and a variety of other receptors) and discuss their functional implication in the immune and inflammatory response focusing on non‐IgE‐mediated activation mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral ingestion plays an important role in human exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). The uptake of PBDEs primarily occurs in the small intestine. The aim of the present study is to investigate the transepithelial transport characteristics and mechanisms of PBDEs in the small intestine using a Caco-2 cell monolayer model. The apparent permeability coefficients of PBDEs indicated that tri- to hepta-BDEs were poorly absorbed compounds. A linear increase in transepithelial transport was observed with various concentrations of PBDEs, which suggested that passive diffusion dominated their transport at the concentration range tested. In addition, the pseudo-first-order kinetics equation can be applied to the transepithelial transport of PBDEs. The rate-determining step in transepithelial transport of PBDEs was trans-cell transport including the trans-pore process. The significantly lower transepithelial transport rates at low temperature for bidirectional transepithelial transport suggested that an energy-dependent transport mechanism was involved. The efflux transporters (P-glycoprotein, multidrug resistance-associated protein, and breast cancer resistance protein) and influx transporters (organic cation transporters) participated in the transepithelial transport of PBDEs. In addition, the transepithelial transport of PBDEs was pH sensitive; however, more information is required to understand the influence of pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mast cells are crucial effector cells in allergic reactions, where IgE is the best known mechanism to trigger their degranulation and release of a vast array of allergic mediators. However, IgE is not the only component to stimulate these cells to degranulate, while mast cell activation can also result in differential release of mediators. There is a plethora of stimuli, such as IgG, complement components, TLR ligands, neuropeptides, cytokines, chemokines and other inflammatory products, that can directly trigger mast cell degranulation, cause selective release of mediators, and stimulate proliferation, differentiation and/or migration. Moreover, some of these stimuli have a synergic effect on the IgE-mediated mast cell activation. Because of the ability to respond to a large repertoire of stimuli, mast cells may act as a versatile cell in various physiological and pathological conditions. In this review, we discuss current knowledge on non-IgE stimuli for (human) mast cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT In this article, compact microstrip ultrawideband (UWB) bandpass filters with two superposable notched bands are discussed. By cascading n + 1 T-shaped structures where n = 1 or 2 to a three coupled-line section, UWB bandpass frequency response with one or two notched bands can be obtained. The analysis shows that these notched bands are superposable and can be relatively independently adjusted in wide frequency range. The simulated and measured results are presented for verification. The filters are characterized by easy tuning and compact size. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 57:2819-2824, 2015 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Daily intake and uptake of toxic substances in fish from Taihu Lake were estimated. [•] In vitro bioaccessibility was incorporated into the human daily uptake estimation. [•] Both cancer and non-cancer risks considering multiple contaminants were estimated. [•] The high risk contaminants to humans were determined via relative risk analysis. [•] As, Hg, DDTs, and PCBs in Taihu Lake require attention due to relative high risk. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] PBDE bioaccessibility in size-specific dust from air conditioner filter were measured. [•] The bioaccessibility of PBDE congeners decreased with increasing of dust size. [•] The way of being of PBDEs in dust significantly influenced the bioaccessibility. [•] Pore volume and OM were the most important factors influencing bioaccessibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) are widely detected in the environment, although they have been banned in China since 1980s. To better understand the route-specific daily uptake of the pesticides by humans, a total of 322 food, dust, and air samples were collected in Shanghai, China, during 2008–2011. The median concentrations were 0.2–126.6 and 0.03–1.6ng/g wet weight for DDTs (DDT and its metabolites) and HCHs, respectively, in different types of foods. The values in dust (indoors and outdoors) were 5.7–29.8 and 1.3–5.4ng/g, and 13.9×10−3 and 2.6×10−3 ng/m3 in air (gas+particle) for DDTs and HCHs, respectively. The daily uptake of a pesticide by humans was calculated via the pesticide intake multiplied by its uptake efficiency. The uptake efficiencies of DDTs and HCHs in food through human intestines were estimated using bioaccessibility measured via an in vitro method simulating the human gastrointestinal digestion process. The total daily uptakes of DDTs and HCHs through three routes (i.e., ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact) were 79.4 and 4.9ng/day, respectively, for children, and 131.1 and 8.0ng/day, respectively, for adults. Ingestion via food and dust was the main route of human exposure to the pesticides, and the daily uptake of the pesticides via food consumption accounted for 95.0–99.2% of the total. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease associated with senile β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques and cognitive decline. Neurogenesis in the adult hippocampus is implicated in regulating learning and memory, and is increased in human postmortem brain of AD patients. However, little is currently known about the changes of hippocampal neurogenesis in the progression of AD. As brain tissues from patients during the progression of AD are generally not available, an amyloid precursor protein (APP)/presenilin1 (PS1) double transgenic mouse model of AD was studied. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling supported by doublecortin staining was used to detect proliferating hippocampal cells in the mice. Compared with age-matched wild-type controls, 9-month-old transgenic mice with memory impairment and numerous brain Aβ deposits showed increased numbers of proliferating hippocampal cells. However, 3-month-old transgenic mice with normal memory and subtle brain Aβ deposits showed normal hippocampal proliferation. Double immunofluorescent labeling with BrdU and either NeuN or glial fibrillary acidic protein was conducted in mice at 10 months (28 days after the last BrdU injection) to determine the differentiation of proliferating cells. The number of hippocampal BrdU-positive cells and BrdU-positive cells differentiating into neurons (neurogenesis) in 10-month-old mice was greater in transgenic mice compared with age-matched controls, but the ratio of hippocampal BrdU-positive cells differentiating into neurons and astroglia was comparable. These results suggest hippocampal neurogenesis may increase during the progression of AD. Targeting this change in neurogenesis and understanding the underlying mechanism could lead to the development of a new treatment to control the progression of AD. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mean urinary levels of mPAEs were higher than that of OH-PAHs (310 vs. 4.57 ng/mL). • Urinary OH-PAHs and mPAEs did not correlated with gender and ages. • Urinary concentrations of OH-PAHs and mPAEs have significant geographical difference. • OH-PAHs could result over 65 times higher risks of DNA damage than mPAEs. • Children in Shenzhen were subjected to non-carcinogenic risks from PAEs but not PAHs. Monohydroxylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (OH-PAHs), phthalate metabolites (mPAEs), and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in the urine of school children aged 8–11 years from Shenzhen, China were measured in order to investigate oxidative stress damage from co-exposure to PAHs and PAEs. The concentrations of OH-PAHs and mPAEs in urine were 0.36–36.5 (median: 3.86) and 9.48–1609 (median: 240) ng/mL respectively. Gender and age did not influence urinary concentrations of ΣOH-PAHs and ΣmPAEs, but geographical variations (i.e., urban versus suburban) were observed. Levels of 8-OHdG were positively correlated with urinary OH-PAHs and mPAEs, with correlation coefficients (r) varying between 0.160 and 0.365 (p < 0.05). OH-PAHs made a greater contribution to oxidative DNA damage than mPAEs when these two types of pollutants were present at the same concentrations. Human health risks were assessed using the hazard quotient and the hazard index for the cumulative risk of a complex of chemicals. The results demonstrated that risks from PAHs could be neglected, but that 29.5 % of school children may be subject to obvious health risks from PAEs, especially diethylhexyl phthalate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain–Machine Interfaces (BMIs) have attracted much attention in recent decades, mainly for their applications involving severely disabled people. Recently, research has been directed at enhancing the ability of healthy people by connecting their brains to external devices. However, there are currently no successful research reports focused on robotic power augmentation using electroencephalography (EEG) signals for the shoulder joint. In this study, a method is proposed to estimate the shoulder's electromyography (EMG) signals from EEG signals based on the concept of a virtual flexor–extensor muscle. In addition, the EMG signal of the deltoid muscle is used as the virtual EMG signal to establish the EMG estimation model and evaluate the experimental results. Thus, the shoulder's power can be augmented by estimated virtual EMG signals for the people wearing an EMG-based power augmentation exoskeleton robot. The estimated EMG signal is expressed via a linear combination of the features of EEG signals extracted by Independent Component Analysis, Short-time Fourier Transform, and Principal Component Analysis. The proposed method was verified experimentally, and the average of the estimation correlation coefficient across different subjects was 0.78 (±0.037). These results demonstrate the feasibility and potential of using EEG signals to provide power augmentation through BMI technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an anticancer strategy utilizing light-mediated activation of a photosensitizer (PS) which has accumulated in tumor and/or surrounding vasculature. Upon activation, the PS mediates tumor destruction through the generation of reactive oxygen species and tumor-associated vasculature damage, generally resulting in high tumor cure rates. In addition, a PDT-induced immune response against the tumor has been documented in several studies. However, some contradictory results have been reported as well. With the aim of improving the understanding and awareness of the immunological events triggered by PDT, this review focuses on the immunological effects post-PDT, described in preclinical and clinical studies. The reviewed preclinical evidence indicates that PDT is able to elicit a local inflammatory response in the treated site, which can develop into systemic antitumor immunity, providing long-term tumor growth control. Nevertheless, this aspect of PDT has barely been explored in clinical studies. It is clear that further understanding of these events can impact the design of more potent PDT treatments. Based on the available preclinical knowledge, recommendations are given to guide future clinical research to gain valuable information on the immune response induced by PDT. Such insights directly obtained from cancer patients can only improve the success of PDT treatment, either alone or in combination with immunomodulatory approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common degenerative disease characterized by cognitive impairment, memory decline, and language disorder for which there is no effective treatment. Neurogenesis has been indicated in AD and may play an important role in the pathogenesis of AD. Targeting this pathway is a new idea for the treatment of the disease. A recent study reveals that the cellular prion protein (PrP), a receptor for Aβ oligomers, regulates neurogenesis, and its elevated expression is related to cell differentiation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of 6D11 (PrP monoclonal antibody) via neurogenesis promotion in APP/PS1 transgenic mice and Aβ‐induced cell model of AD. Methods: In the present study, 9‐month‐old male APP/PS1 mice were injected with 6D11. Then, the Morris water maze was used to examine the spatial learning and memory abilities of the mice in both groups, and immunostained was used to assess the level of Aβ, neurogenesis, and neural stem cells (NSCs) differentiation. Results: 6D11 attenuated cognitive deficits in APP/PS1 transgenic mice, which was accompanied by a decrease of the deposition of Aβ. In addition, 6D11 treatment promoted differentiation of the existing hippocampal cells to neurons. Conclusions: Our findings confirmed that 6D11 has a therapeutic effect in APP/PS1 transgenic AD mouse model and Aβ‐induced AD cell model, and the effect exerted via increase of neurogenesis and cell differentiation by transduction of Aβ peptide signal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mast cells (MCs) are one of the first immune cells recruited to a tumor. It is well recognized that MCs accumulate in colon cancer lesion and their density is associated with the clinical outcomes. However, the molecular mechanism of how colon cancer cells may modify MC function is still unclear. In this study, primary human MCs were generated from CD34+ progenitor cells and a 3D coculture model was developed to study the interplay between colon cancer cells and MCs. By comparing the transcriptomic profile of colon cancer-cocultured MCs versus control MCs, we identified a number of deregulated genes, such as MMP-2, VEGF-A, PDGF-A, COX2, NOTCH1 and ISG15, which contribute to the enrichment of cancer-related pathways. Intriguingly, pre-stimulation with a TLR2 agonist prior to colon cancer coculture induced upregulation of multiple interferon-inducible genes as well as MHC molecules in MCs. Our study provides an alternative approach to study the influence of colon cancer on MCs. The transcriptome signature of colon cancer-cocultured MCs may potentially reflect the mechanism of how colon cancer cells educate MCs to become pro-tumorigenic in the initial phase and how a subsequent inflammatory signal—e.g., TLR2 ligands—may modify their responses in the cancer milieu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic inflammation drives the development of colorectal cancer (CRC), where tumor-infiltrating immune cells interact with cancer cells in a dynamic crosstalk. Mast cells (MC), one of earliest recruited immune cells, accumulate in CRC tissues and their density is correlated with cancer progression. However, the exact contribution of MC in CRC and their interaction with colon cancer cells is poorly understood. Here, we investigated the impact of primary human MC and their mediators on colon cancer growth using 2D and 3D coculture models. Primary human MC were generated from peripheral CD34+ stem cells. Transwell chambers were used to analyze MC chemotaxis to colon cancer. Colon cancer cells HT29 and Caco2 differentially recruited MC by releasing CCL15 or SCF, respectively. Using BrdU proliferation assays, we demonstrated that MC can directly support colon cancer proliferation and this effect was mediated by their cellular crosstalk. 3D coculture models with cancer spheroids further confirmed the pro-tumor effect of MC on colon cancer growth, where direct cell-cell contact is dispensable and increased production of multiple soluble mediators was detected. Moreover, TLR2 stimulation of MC promoted stronger growth of colon cancer spheroids. By examining the transcriptome profile of colon cancer-cocultured MC versus control MC, we identified several MC marker genes, which were deregulated in expression. Our study provides an advanced in vitro model to investigate the role of human MC in cancer. Our data support the detrimental role of MC in CRC development and provide a molecular insight into the cellular crosstalk between MC and colon cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the development of the economy, electronic waste (e-waste) has become a new global problem and e-waste dismantling processes are an important source of air pollution. Among the pollutants emitted, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a severe concern because of their carcinogenic and mutagenic properties. However, few studies have investigated the atmospheric PAHs generated by e-waste dismantling in a specific region, especially the PAH levels throughout the year. Thus, we assessed the effects of PAHs on the local air quality by sampling the total suspended particulates (TSP), PM 10 , PM 2.5 , and gaseous phase from an e-waste dismantling area and a control site during four seasons. The TSP, PM 10 , and PM 2.5 concentrations were measured as 84.8–414, 70.7–302, and 57.1–204 μg m−3, respectively, in this area, and those of three types of particulate bound-PAHs and gaseous phase PAHs were 2.6–16.1, 2.2–15.1, 1.9–14.6, and 20.1–72.8 ng m−3, respectively. The pollutant levels were higher in the spring and winter than those in the summer and autumn. The PAH sources were identified by diagnostic ratio approaches and principal component analysis. E-waste dismantling was identified as the major source of PAH pollution within this area, where approximately 82.4% of the PAHs was attributed to e-waste dismantling at an industrial park (EP site). Among the sites sampled, the pollutant levels and cancer risk were highest at the EP site, and they could pose a cancer risk for humans, although only the bioaccessible PAHs in human lungs were considered. In particular, infants had a higher health risk than adults, thereby suggesting that air pollution with PAHs is a concern in this area. This study provides clear evidence of the requirement for control measurements of e-waste dismantling processes. Unlabelled Image • PAH levels in spring and winter were higher than those in summer and autumn. • The e-waste dismantling was the main source of PAHs in e-waste dismantling area. • Low ring PAHs were significant higher in e-waste dismantling area than urban site. • The cancer risks of atmospheric PAHs were noteworthy at EP and RA site. • Infants suffered higher human health risk from atmospheric PAHs than adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study simulated the spatial distribution of wind speeds and wind energy density by using the WRF model, and we used the WRF-simulated results to evaluate the sea surface wind speeds retrieved from the HY-2C and CFOSAT satellite-borne microwave scatterometers over the Yellow Sea region. The main conclusions were as follows: (1) The combination of the MRF boundary layer parameterization scheme, the MM5 near-surface parameterization scheme, and the Global Data Assimilation System (GDAS) initial field demonstrated the best performance in simulating the 10 m wind speed in the Yellow Sea region, with a root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 1.57, bias of 1.24 m/s, and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 17%. (2) The MAPE of the HY-2C inversion data was 9%, while the CFOSAT inversion data had an MAPE of 6%. The sea surface wind speeds derived from the HY-2C and CFOSAT satellite scatterometer inversions demonstrated high accuracy and applicability in this region. (3) The wind speed was found to increase with altitude over the Yellow Sea, with higher wind speeds observed in the southern region compared to the northern region. The wind power density increased with altitude, and the wind power density in the southern area of the Yellow Sea was higher than in the northern region. (4) The CFOSAT satellite inversion products were in good agreement with the WRF simulation results under low wind speed conditions. In contrast, the HY-2C satellite inversion products showed better agreement under moderate wind speed conditions. Under high wind speed conditions, both satellite inversion products exhibited minor deviations, but the HY-2C product had an overall overestimation, while the CFOSAT product remained within the range of −1 to 1 m/s. (6) The wind power density increased with the satellite-inverted 10 m wind speed. When the 10 m wind speed was less than 9 m/s, the wind power density exhibited a roughly cubic trend of increase. However, when the 10 m wind speed exceeded 9 m/s, the wind power density no longer increased with the rise in 10 m wind speed. These findings provide valuable insights into wind energy resources in the Yellow Sea region and demonstrate the effectiveness of satellite scatterometer inversions for wind speed estimation. The results have implications for renewable energy planning and management in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single‐crystal elasticity of both α‐ and β‐orthopyroxene was determined up to 20 GPa and 300 K by Brillouin scattering. Using the derived full elastic moduli (Cij), we investigated the contribution of the metastable pyroxene to the seismically observed 3%–5% low‐velocity anomalies along the subducting slab in the top transition zone. Our modeled results show that a harzburgite wedge with a 1000‐K colder geotherm and metastable α‐orthopyroxene and olivine displays compressional (VP) and shear‐wave (VS) velocities 3.0%–3.6(6)% and 2.0%–2.8(6)% lower than the surrounding mantle at 410–460 km depth, respectively. At deeper depth up to 520 km, VP and VS of this metastable wedge with β‐orthopyroxene and olivine are 3.6%–4.4(6)% and 2.8%–4.3(6)% lower than the pyrolitic mantle, respectively. The presence of both metastable orthopyroxene and olivine instead of metastable olivine alone helps better explain the origin of the low‐velocity anomalies within the subduction slab in the top transition zone. Plain Language Summary: Subducting slab plays a significant role in transportation the surface material to the Earth's deep interior. It is normally imaged as a high‐velocity body compared to the surrounding mantle. However, seismic studies detected the existence of 3%–5% low compressional‐wave velocity anomalies accompanied with strong seismic shear‐wave anisotropies within the subducting slab at the top transition zone in various locations of the Earth which cannot be explained by the presence of metastable olivine alone. Besides olivine, orthopyroxene could also remain metastable in the coldest harzburgite layer of the slab. Here we report experimental results on the single‐crystal elasticity of both α‐ and β‐orthopyroxene up to 20 GPa and 300 K. These experimental results allow us to provide a comprehensive evaluation on the velocity profiles of the coldest harzburgite layer of the slab. We found that the coldest harzburgite layer with 22–37 vol.% orthopyroxene and 62–78 vol.% olivine has the VP and VS 3.0%–4.4(6)% and 2.0%–4.5(6)% lower than those of the pyrolitic mantle in the mantle transition zone, respectively. The observed 3%–5% low‐velocity anomalies within the slab in the top transition zone should be explained by the metastable orthopyroxene and olivine instead of metastable olivine alone. Key Points: Single‐crystal elasticity of α‐ and β‐orthopyroxene was determined to 20 GPa and shows anomalous change across the phase transitionThe obtained results were used to model the velocity profiles of the coldest harzburgite layer of the sinking subduction slabWe find that the low‐velocity anomalies within the slab at the top transition zone should be caused by metastable orthopyroxene and olivine [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human health risk assessment through the dermal exposure of metal (loid)s in dust from low latitude and high geological background plateau cities was largely unknown. In this study, the road dust samples were harvested from a typical low-latitude plateau provincial capital city Kunming, Southwest China. The total concentration and dermal bioaccessibility of heavy metal (loid)s in road dust were determined, and their health risks as well as cytotoxicity on human skin keratinocytes were also assessed. The average concentrations of As (28.5 mg/kg), Cd (2.65 mg/kg), Mn (671 mg/kg), and Zn (511 mg/kg) exceeded the soil background values. Arsenic had the highest bioaccessibility after 2 h (3.79%), 8 h (4.24%), and 24 h (16.6%) extraction. The dermal pathway when bioaccessibility is considered has a higher hazard quotient than the conventional method using total metal(loid)s in the dust. In addition, toxicological verification suggested that the dust extracts suppressed the cell viability, increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and DNA damage, and eventually activated the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathway, evidenced by the upregulation of Caspase-3/9, Bax, and Bak-1. Cadmium was positively correlated with the mRNA expression of Bax. Taken together, our data indicated that both dermal bioaccessibility and cytotoxicity should be considered for accurate human skin health risk assessment of heavy metal(loid)s in road dust, which may provide new insight for accurate human health risk assessment and environmental management. • The enrichment of Cd and Zn in road dust from Kunming is the highest. • Bioaccessible heavy metal (loid)s in the road dust pose health risks to humans. • Road dust extracts triggered obvious cytotoxicity in human skin cells. • Bioaccessible Cd may be responsible for dust induced cellular apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phasing out of brominated flame retardants from markets has prompted an increased focus on organophosphate ester (OPE) flame retardants because of their wide usage and toxicity. The high usage of OPEs inevitably leads to widespread occurrence in the environment and thus human internal exposure. Accordingly, extensive internal exposure to OPEs and their metabolites (mOPEs) has been reported in recent years. Here, we review literature findings relating to sample pretreatment protocols and instrumental analysis procedures for OPE determination; the occurrence and composition profiles of OPEs and mOPEs in human matrices including urine, blood, milk, nails, hair, and placenta; the health risks associated with OPE exposure; and notable challenges in OPE analysis. Measured urinary concentrations of dialkyl and diaryl mOPEs were relatively high in the USA but comparatively low in Europe and Asia. There have been few studies on OPEs and their hydroxylated metabolites (HO-OPEs) in human matrices. The main OPEs originating from daily necessity products are tris(2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate, tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate, and triphenyl phosphate, although there are regional differences. Human exposure to OPEs occurs mainly through oral ingestion. Because of the relatively short biological half-lives of OPEs, urinary mOPE concentrations reflect short-term human OPE exposure, while OPE levels in hair and nails better reflect long-term exposure because of the low metabolic activities of OPEs in these matrices. There is a need to develop effective and flexible pretreatment methods and sensitive instrumental analysis protocols for OPEs/mOPEs and to increase the availability of commercial HO-OPE standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The growth, development, and ERα and Vtg-I gene expressions of Japanese ricefish (Oryzias latipes; medaka) exposed to different concentrations of estriol (E3), including one environmentally relevant concentration, during embryo-adult life stages were evaluated. At the early life stage, fertilized eggs were exposed to 5, 50, 500, 5000ng/L E3 for 15days, and the hatched fry were exposed continuously to the same concentrations for an additional 15days. Exposure to 500 and 5000ng/L E3 resulted in adverse effects on hatchability and time to hatching. At 5000ng/L, the gross abnormality rate was increased and the number of females that hatched was twice that of males. When the fish were exposed to 5–5000ng/L E3 for further 60days, the male hepatosomatic index (HSI) was increased at 5000ng/L. The female gonadosomatic index (GSI) was decreased at 500 and 5000ng/L E3, while the male GSI at 5000ng/L E3 was increased and sex reversal was also found at this concentration. Quantitative RT-PCR showed that the hepatic vitellogenin-I (Vtg-I) genes were up-regulated in females at 500 and 5000ng/L E3 and in males at all E3 concentrations, whereas E3 did not affect estrogen receptor α (ERα) mRNA transcription. These results showed that E3 at environmental concentration of 5ng/L has no adverse effects on growth and development of the Japanese medaka. However, in this study, if we only focused on Vtg gene change in males, E3 had strong estrogenic effects on male medaka under the conditions of these experiments. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The brominated flame retardant decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) has been extensively used following restrictions on BDE-209 and thus, been frequently detected in aquatic environment. However, information on impact of DBDPE on fish development and the potential mechanisms remains scarce. In present study, developing zebrafish were employed as a study model. Embryos were exposed until 5 d to DBDPE at concentrations of 0, 3, 30, and 300 μg/L, following which the impact on larval development was investigated. DBDPE bioaccumulation and locomotor hyperactivity were observed in developing zebrafish exposed to DBDPE. Transcriptome and bioinformatics analyses indicated that pathways associated with cardiac muscle contraction and retinol metabolism were notably affected. The mechanisms of DBDPE to induce locomotor abnormality were further investigated by analyzing levels of retinol and retinol metabolites, eye and heart histology, heart rates, and ATPase activity. Our results indicate that locomotor hyperactivity observed in larvae exposed to DBDPE results from abnormal heartbeat, which in turn is attributable to inhibition of Na+/K+-ATPase activity. Furthermore, DBDPE did not change larval eye histology and contents of retinoid (retinol, retinal, and retinoic acid). This study provides insight into the mechanisms underlying DBDPE-induced developmental toxicity and highlights the need for addressing the environmental risks for aquatic organisms. [Display omitted] • DBDPE exposure causes locomotor abnormality and accumulation in zebrafish larvae. • Transcriptome and bioinformatics analyses were performed at larvae exposed to DBDPE. • DBDPE induces locomotor abnormality by altering heart rate and Na+/K+-ATPase. • Hyperactivity could not be attributed to dysregulation of retinol metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol A (BPA) and its alternatives bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF) are identified as endocrine disruptors that have negative impacts on infant growth. Their temporal variations in human milk and potential effects on fetal growth are not well known. In this study, colostrum collecting at four time points between 2006 and 2019 and paired urine in 2019 from Shanghai, China, were analyzed for eight bisphenols. The total concentrations in colostrum in 2019 were up to 3.43 ng/mL, with BPA being dominant, followed by BPS and BPF. BPA levels in colostrum noticeably decreased from 2010 to 2013. Additionally, obvious percentage changes in bisphenols were observed in 2019. The BPA concentrations in paired colostrum and urine were not significantly correlated. High levels of BPA in colostrum were linked to a significant reduction in birth head circumference in 2019 (p = 0.031). BPA and BPS in colostrum might have similar negative effect on fetal growth in 2019, but these effects were generally non-significant. Further studies are needed to testify the potential impact. The hazard indexes for infants in the first week of life were below 1, suggesting no obvious health risks. However, the high contribution from BPA still warrants further attention. [Display omitted] • Obvious temporal variation but BPA still dominant in colostrum during 2006–2019. • A complex usage pattern of BPA analog in recent years. • Similar but usually non-significant impact on fetal growth by colostrum BPA and BPS. • No obvious health risks for infants in the first week after birth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extensive production and use of phthalates means that these compounds are now ubiquitous in the environment and various biota, which raises concerns about potential harmful health effects. In this study, phthalate metabolites (mPAEs) were measured in breast milk (n = 100) collected from mothers of southern China between 2014 − 2022. Of the nine target mPAEs, five were detected in all of the samples, including mono-methyl phthalate (MMP), mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP), and mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP). The total levels of mPAEs in breast milk ranged from 4.76 to 51.6 ng/mL, with MiBP and MnBP being the predominant isomers (MiBP + MnBP > 48.3%). Increasing trends were observed in MMP (5.7%/year) and MEHP (7.1%/year) levels during the study period, while a decreasing trend were observed in MiBP (−6.6%/year); no clear temporal trends were found for the other metabolites and total mPAE levels. The results indicate that exposure to phthalates is still prevalent in southern China. Breastfeeding was found to contribute to estimated daily phthalate intakes of 0.383–6.95 μg/kg-bw/day, suggesting insignificant health risks to infants based on dietary exposure. However, the increasing exposure to MMP and MEHP calls for more research into the possible sources and potential risks. [Display omitted] • The first evidence of temporal trends in phthalate occurrence in Chinese breast milk. • MMP and MEHP concentrations in breast milk increased between 2014 and 2022. • MiBP concentrations in breast milk decreased between 2014 and 2022. • Intake of phthalates by breastfeeding poses no health risks for nursing infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• FSI method is used to model the biomechanics of patient-specific small IA. • Study inertial impact of blood flow on hemodynamic and biomechanics of IA. • Find three high value areas of WSSM and two types of WSS in small IA. • Reveal relationship between hemodynamics and biomechanics of small IA. Rupture of small intracranial aneurysm (IA) often leads to the development of highly fatal clinical syndromes such as subarachnoid hemorrhage. Due to the patient specificity of small IA, there are many difficulties in evaluating the rupture risk of small IA such as multiple influencing factors, high clinical experience requirements and poor reusability. In this study, clinical methods such as transcranial doppler (TCD) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to obtain patient-specific parameters, and the fluid-structure interaction method (FSI) is used to model and evaluate the biomechanics and hemodynamics of patient-specific small IA. The results show that a spiral vortex stably exists in the patient-specific small IA. Due to the small size of the patient-specific small IA, the blood flow velocity still maintains a high value with maximum reaching 3 m/s. The inertial impact of blood flow and vortex convection have certain influence on hemodynamic and biomechanics parameters. They cause three high value areas of WSSM on the patient-specific small IA with maximum of 180 Pa, 130 Pa and 110 Pa, respectively. They also cause two types of WSS concentration points, positive normal stress peak value areas and negative normal stress peak value areas to appear. This paper found that the factors affecting hemodynamic parameters and biomechanical parameters are different. Unlike hemodynamic parameters, biomechanical parameters are also affected by blood pressure in addition to blood flow velocity. This study reveals the relationship between the flow field distribution and changes of patient-specific small IA, biomechanics and hemodynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The PIG-A gene mutation assay is a valuable tool for measuring in vivo gene mutations in blood cells. The human PIG-A assay, used as a potential genotoxicity biomarker, is minimally invasive, sensitive, and cost-efficient; however, the relationship between carcinogen exposure and PIG-A mutations is not well understood. Methods: We investigated the genotoxic effect of red blood cells using PIG-A assay and lymphocyte cytokinesis-block micronucleus test in barbecue restaurant workers (N = 70) exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and self-identified healthy control subjects (N = 56). Urinary PAH metabolites were measured to evaluate internal exposure levels. Results: Multivariate Poisson regression showed that the PAH-exposed workers exhibited significantly higher PIG-A mutant frequency (MF) (8.04 ± 6.81 × 10− 6) than did the controls (5.56 ± 5.26 × 10− 6) (RR = 0.707, 95% CI: 0.615–0.812, P < 0.001). These results indicate that PAH exposure is a risk factor for elevated PIG-A MF. The frequencies of micronuclei (MN) and nuclear buds (NBUD) in the PAH-exposed workers (MN: 3.06 ± 2.07 ‰, NBUD: 1.38 ± 1.02 ‰) were also significantly higher than in the controls (MN: 1.46 ± 0.64 ‰, P < 0.001; NBUD: 0.70 ± 0.60 ‰, P < 0.001). Additionally, PIG-A MFs showed better associations with several urinary hydroxylated PAH metabolites (P2-OH-Flu = 0.032, r2-OH-Flu = 0. 268; P2-OH-Phe = 0.022, r2-OH-Phe = 0.286; P3-OH-Phe = 0.0312, r3-OH-Phe = 0.270; P4-OH-Phe = 0.018, r4-OH-Phe = 0.296), while the increase in MN, NPB, and NBUD frequencies was not associated with any OH-PAH metabolites; and high-PAH-exposed workers showed the highest PIG-A MFs. Furthermore, there was a significant association between PIG-A MF and PAH exposure levels (Chi-square test for trend, P = 0.006). Conclusions: Our results indicate that an increase in PIG-A MF in barbecue workers could reflect the response to PAH exposure, providing evidence of its potential as a genotoxicity biomarker in human risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We evaluated the impact of EV on the growth and development of Japanese medaka. [•] EV affected hatchability, time to hatching, growth and deteriorated development. [•] EV altered ER and VTG mRNA levels in both sexes. [•] The change in sex ratio of the fish is noteworthy and requires future study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Previous studies have suggested that quetiapine, a new atypical antipsychotic drug, may have beneficial effects on cognitive impairment and be a neuroprotectant in treating neurodegenerative diseases. In the present study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of chronic administration of quetiapine on methamphetamine (METH)-induced recognition memory impairment and dopaminergic terminal neurotoxicity in rats. Rats were pretreated with METH (5mg/kg; s.c.) four times at 2-h intervals while their body temperature was monitored. Fifteen minutes after the last METH injection, rats were administered quetiapine (10mg/kg/day; i.p.) for 28 days. One day after the last quetiapine injection, rats were trained and tested on an object recognition task on days 29 and 30. Finally, on day 31, rats were sacrificed for immunohistochemistry, 1 day after the object recognition task. METH induced hyperthermia, recognition memory impairment and a decrease of tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity in the caudate putamen (CPu) of striatum. Quetiapine attenuated the METH-induced hyperthermia. Furthermore, chronic post-treatment of quetiapine reversed the METH-induced memory impairment and dopaminergic terminal deficit. These findings suggest that quetiapine may have therapeutic effects in the treatment of cognitive impairment and neurodegeneration induced by METH. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Electroencephalography neurofeedback (EEG-NFB) training can induce changes in the power of targeted EEG bands. The objective of this study is to enhance and evaluate the specific changes of EEG power spectral density that the brain-machine interface (BMI) users can reliably generate for power augmentation through EEG-NFB training. First, we constructed an EEG-NFB training system for power augmentation. Then, three subjects were assigned to three NFB training stages, based on a 6-day consecutive training session as one stage. The subjects received real-time feedback from their EEG signals by a robotic arm while conducting flexion and extension movement with their elbow and shoulder joints, respectively. EEG signals were compared with each NFB training stage. The training results showed that EEG beta (12–40 Hz) power increased after the NFB training for both the elbow and the shoulder joints' movements. EEG beta power showed sustained improvements during the 3-stage training, which revealed that even the short-term training could improve EEG signals significantly. Moreover, the training effect of the shoulder joints was more obvious than that of the elbow joints. These results suggest that NFB training can improve EEG signals and clarify the specific EEG changes during the movement. Our results may even provide insights into how the neural effects of NFB can be better applied to the BMI power augmentation system and improve the performance of healthy individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex multi-discontinuity structure at 660‐800 km depth is likely attributable to lateral mantle composition heterogeneities, which are closely related to the mid-ocean ridge basalts (MORB). To decipher the impact of varying composition on the seismic properties of MORB, detailed knowledge of the elasticity of candidate minerals is thus important. Here we employed Brillouin scattering coupled with diamond anvil cells to determine the single-crystal elasticity of corundum up to 14 GPa and 300 K. Using third-order finite strain equation of state, we calculate the pressure derivatives of adiabatic bulk modulus and shear modulus of corundum, which yields K S0 ' = 3.8(1), G 0 ' = 1.8(1) with K S0 = 256(1) GPa and G 0 = 163(1) GPa and ρ 0 = 3.987(1) g/cm3. Combined with previous high-temperature data, the velocity and anisotropy of corundum have been calculated at 300 K or along normal geotherm. Our results are applied to model the density and velocity profiles of normal and alkali-depleted MORB. Our modeling demonstrates that varying the alkali content and temperature of MORB can significantly impact the discontinuity depth and velocity jump at 660–800 km depth. For normal MORB, reducing the temperature by 300 K from normal mantle geotherm results in a shift of the velocity jump from 670–710 to 650–710 km depth but hardly affects the magnitude of the velocity jump (5.8–6.8(3)% for V P and 10.0–10.8(5)% for V S). By contrast, in alkali-depleted MORB, the discontinuity will occur at a greater depth from 705–730 to 720–745 km depending on temperature with a V P jump of 3.8–4.6(2)% and V S jump of 6.3–7.4(4)%. [Display omitted] • Single-crystal elasticity of corundum was determined up to 14 GPa and 300 K. • The obtained results were used to model the density and velocity profiles of the MORB with varying alkali content. • The varying alkali content and temperature of MORB can impact the discontinuity depth and velocity jump below 660 km depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) are dominantly from industrial production. Comprehension of atmospheric diffusion of VOC is realistic to discharge reduction. Here, transport ranges of VOC were analyzed by aerodynamics modelling, and validated with on-site monitoring. By combining a terrain evolution model, spatiotemporal distributions of typical VOC, the impacts of wind speeds and directions in relation to topographical parameters were acquired. The model outputs show that the low elevation landscapes experience significant variation in concentration distributions of VOC when accompanied by strong shear flow regimes with non-uniform wind velocities. Case studies suffer 13.0% and 24.2% increases of VOC concentration ratio outside/inside industry park, with long-range transport of VOC indicated by dominances of lower wind speeds and higher humidity. High ratio, from atmospheric diffusion of VOC from industry park, poses great exposure risk to surrounding residents. The spatial map of time-specific health risks, proving VOC concentration accumulation enhancing risks of school-aged children than adults, was consequently produced from models. Overall, addressing the impact of regularities during VOC diffusion on occupational workers and residents will suggest a valuable reference for decision-making of emission-abatement strategies and awareness-raising health-risk interventions. Image 1 • A data-based atmospheric chemistry-species transport model is developed • Two key topography parameters influence VOC diffusion profiles • Emitted VOC transport levels are enhanced under high humidity and wind speeds • Most children represent high yet often overlooked VOC exposure risks than adults [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas chromatography negative chemical ionization mass spectrometry (GC-NCI-MS) is a preferred instrumental approach for the trace and ultra-trace analysis of various toxic organics and their metabolites in human biological fluids. Specifically, the method has played an important role in the highly sensitive and specific quantitative detection of persistent highly halogenated compounds in environmental matrices and biota during the past few decades. However, for the analysis of toxic metabolites with active hydrogen atoms, such as acids, alcohols, and phenolic compounds, from biological matrixes or organics without electronegative atoms or groups, a derivatization step is often needed prior to GC analysis. Such derivatization aims to change the properties of targets to improve their separation, increase their volatility, and enhance the sensitivity of instrumental detection. This review summarizes three derivatization strategies commonly used for GC methods, i.e., alkylation, silylation, and acylation, together with their application combined with GC-NCI-MS for the high sensitivity analysis of toxic organic metabolites in the human body. The advantages and disadvantages of each derivatization method and potential directions for future applications are discussed. Given the broad variety of applications as well as the compound-specific sensitivity for the ultra-trace analysis of target xenobiotics in human biological fluids, subsequent studies are required to develop convenient, faster derivatization procedures and reagents better suited for routine analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new method for the simultaneous detection of 20 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), 4 hydroxyl PBDEs (OH-PBDEs) and 10 hydroxyl PAHs (OH-PAHs) in human hair has been developed for the first time. External target analytes from hair (hair-Ex) were ultrasonically extracted with acetone, while the internal target analytes (hair-In) were obtained with further digestion and liquid–liquid extraction of washed hair. Alkaline digestion with liquid–liquid extraction under alkaline and re-acidification combination conditions was the key procedure to successfully extract both parent and metabolic compounds from hair. Both external and internal extracts were purified with gel permeation chromatography, and the parent compounds were subsequently separated from their hydroxylated metabolites with a silica solid phase extraction column prior to instrumental analysis. GC-MS-MS, GC-MS and HPLC-MS-MS were used to analyze PAHs, PBDEs and their hydroxylated metabolites, respectively. The method showed satisfactory accuracy as well as precision, and the recoveries of PBDEs, PAHs, OH-PBDEs and OH-PAHs ranged from 62%–145%, 48%–135%, 60%–146% and 60%–88%, respectively. The developed method was validated in a pilot biomonitoring campaign. All parent analytes were approximately 100% detected in both hair-In and hair-Ex, while no OH-PBDEs were detected in hair-In and hair-Ex. All OH-PAHs were approximately 100% detected in hair-In with a mean Σ10OH-PAHs concentration of 174.7 ng per g dry weight (dw), and the concentration in hair-Ex was 18 times lower than that in hair-In with a relatively lower detection frequency. Both partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and Spearman correlation analysis with the concentration of analytes confirmed that the developed method performed well to distinguish the internal from external exposure to target analytes in hair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Maternal exposure to RDP was able to transfer to offspring. • RDP could disrupt SCFA metabolism in maternal rats and offspring. • Maternal RDP exposure disturbed the gut microbiome and metabolic levels in offspring. • RDP exposure led a long-term health impact on both maternal rats and offspring. Resorcinol-bis(diphenyl)-phosphate (RDP), an emerging organophosphate flame retardant, is increasingly used as a primary alternative for decabromodiphenyl ether and is frequently detected in global environmental matrices. However, the long-term effects of its exposure to humans remain largely unknown. To investigate its intergenerational transfer capacity and health risks, female Sprague Dawley rats were orally exposed to RDP from the beginning of pregnancy to the end of the lactation period. The RDP content, gut microbiota homeostasis, and metabolic levels were determined. RDP accumulation occurred in the livers of maternal rats and offspring and increased with exposure time. 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that exposure to RDP during pregnancy and/or lactation significantly disrupted gut microbiota homeostasis, as evidenced by decreased abundance and diversity. In particular, the abundance of Turicibacter , Adlercreutzia , and YRC22 decreased, correlating significantly with glycollipic metabolism. This finding was consistent with the reduced levels of short-chain fatty acids, the crucial gut microbial metabolites. Meanwhile, RDP exposure resulted in changes in gut microbiome-related metabolism. Nine critical overlapping KEGG metabolic pathways were identified, and the levels of related differential metabolites decreased. Our results suggest that the significant adverse impacts of RDP on gut microbiota homeostasis and metabolic function may increase the long-term risks related to inflammation, obesity, and metabolic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]