Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Lipolysis Response to Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Adipose Cells*

Background: Dysregulation of endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis elicits various stress responses. Results: Endoplasmic reticulum stress activates lipolytic cascade in rat adipocytes. Conclusion: The lipolysis response to endoplasmic reticulum stress is mediated via cAMP/PKA and ERK1/2 signaling. Significance: Increased lipolysis promotes fatty acid efflux from adipocytes to other tissues and thus may contribute to lipotoxicity and insulin resistance in obesity and diabetes. In obesity and diabetes, adipocytes show significant endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which triggers a series of responses. This study aimed to investigate the lipolysis response to ER stress in rat adipocytes. Thapsigargin, tunicamycin, and brefeldin A, which induce ER stress through different pathways, efficiently activated a time-dependent lipolytic reaction. The lipolytic effect of ER stress occurred with elevated cAMP production and protein kinase A (PKA) activity. Inhibition of PKA reduced PKA phosphosubstrates and attenuated the lipolysis. Although both ERK1/2 and JNK are activated during ER stress, lipolysis is partially suppressed by inhibiting ERK1/2 but not JNK and p38 MAPK and PKC. Thus, ER stress induces lipolysis by activating cAMP/PKA and ERK1/2. In the downstream lipolytic cascade, phosphorylation of lipid droplet-associated protein perilipin was significantly promoted during ER stress but attenuated on PKA inhibition. Furthermore, ER stress stimuli did not alter the levels of hormone-sensitive lipase and adipose triglyceride lipase but caused Ser-563 and Ser-660 phosphorylation of hormone-sensitive lipase and moderately elevated its translocation from the cytosol to lipid droplets. Accompanying these changes, total activity of cellular lipases was promoted to confer the lipolysis. These findings suggest a novel pathway of the lipolysis response to ER stress in adipocytes. This lipolytic activation may be an adaptive response that regulates energy homeostasis but with sustained ER stress challenge could contribute to lipotoxicity, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance because of persistently accelerated free fatty acid efflux from adipocytes to the bloodstream and other tissues.
Mometasone furoate-loaded aspasomal gel for topical treatment of psoriasis: formulation, optimization, in vitro and in vivo performance

Abstract Background Present investigation was aimed to develop aspasomal gel of Mometasone Furoate for the treatment of Psoriasis that are biologically active and deliver drug at controlled rate and decrease dosing frequency. Methods The vesicles were fabricated using film hydration method and optimized using 32 factorial Design. Prepared formulations were evaluated for percent drug loading, vesicle size, Zeta potential, polydispersity index and morphological studies. Gel was prepared using carbopol by loading optimized drug loaded asposomes and was evaluated for drug content, pH, viscosity and spreadability. The drug release study from the gel was done using dialysis membrane and goat skin. Anti- oxidant potency of the prepared aspasomal gel was determined by Ferric Reducing Assay whereas, in-vivo performance for inflammation and skin irritation was carried out using Wistar rats. Results Optimized aspasomes demonstrated desired properties for entrapment efficiency (74.72 ± 1.8), vesicle size (282.9 ± 1.7), polydispersity index (0.2), zeta potential (−20.2 mV) with spherical shape. The results recorded for drug release from the optimized aspasomal gel exhibited sustained release (24h) compared to the marketed cream (5h). Depot formation of Mometasone furoate loaded aspasomal gel in the epidermis was confirmed by ex vivo skin penetration study by using fluorescent marker. In-vivo study revealed no any irritation and inflammation to the skin promoting drug delivery system to treat psoriasis. Conclusion In conclusion, Mometasone furoate loaded aspasomal gel releases the drug for longer duration of time and reduce dosing frequency, providing the new dimension for the treatment of psoriasis.
A Practical Perspective on the Roles of Solution NMR Spectroscopy in Drug Discovery

Solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a powerful tool to study structures and dynamics of biomolecules under physiological conditions. As there are numerous NMR-derived methods applicable to probe protein–ligand interactions, NMR has been widely utilized in drug discovery, especially in such steps as hit identification and lead optimization. NMR is frequently used to locate ligand-binding sites on a target protein and to determine ligand binding modes. NMR spectroscopy is also a unique tool in fragment-based drug design (FBDD), as it is able to investigate target-ligand interactions with diverse binding affinities. NMR spectroscopy is able to identify fragments that bind weakly to a target, making it valuable for identifying hits targeting undruggable sites. In this review, we summarize the roles of solution NMR spectroscopy in drug discovery. We describe some methods that are used in identifying fragments, understanding the mechanism of action for a ligand, and monitoring the conformational changes of a target induced by ligand binding. A number of studies have proven that 19F-NMR is very powerful in screening fragments and detecting protein conformational changes. In-cell NMR will also play important roles in drug discovery by elucidating protein-ligand interactions in living cells.
Transport

Transportation facilitates access to the labour market, healthcare and education infrastructure as well as to other services and infrastructures necessary for improving the welfare of individuals and households. Despite the fact that transport projects and policies are often considered to equally bene t women and men, there is a large body of professional literature emphasising that transport is not gender neutral. According to these studies, gender is a signi cant factor in accounting for differences in mobility and travel behaviour.
Prospective Evaluation of the Time Required for Insertion of 380 Lumbar and Sacral Pedicle Screws Using Navigation with an Intraoperative 3-Dimensional Imaging System

ABSTRACT Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the time required for various parts of the procedure to insert lumbar and sacral pedicle screws using navigation with an intraoperative, 3-dimensional imaging system. Comparison of these timings was carried out for different surgical indications. Methods: This was a single-surgeon prospective cohort study of 69 consecutive patients (between August 2013 and June 2018) who underwent insertion of 380 pedicle screws into the lumbar and sacral vertebrae. Surgical indications, average time required for surgical exposure and attachment of the reference frame, average time required until completion of the first pedicle screw insertion, and average time required for insertion of a single pedicle screw were evaluated. Results: The average time required from skin incision to reference frame attachment was 28.3 ± 20.4 (mean ± SD) minutes, and the average time required from reference frame attachment to completion of first pedicle screw insertion was 22.3 ± 9.6 minutes. The average time required for insertion of a single pedicle screw was 7.8 ± 2.7 minutes. When surgical indications were compared, the average time required for insertion of a single pedicle screw was 7.7 ± 2.6 minutes in surgery for spondylosis-related stenosis, 8.1 ± 2.8 minutes for degenerative scoliosis, and 8.2 ± 3.6 minutes for metastatic tumor (P = .89). There were no significant changes in these timings over consecutive 6-month periods. Conclusions: There is no significant learning curve and no significant difference in navigation setup and pedicle screw insertion timings with intraoperative 3-dimensional navigation systems for surgeries of different pathologies and levels of surgery. Level of Evidence: 2.
Fish kairomones alter life cycle and growth of a calanoid copepod

In this study, we evaluate the effects of chemical information present in exudates of the zooplanktivorous fish Cnesterodon decemmaculatus (Poeciliidae) on the life cycle and growth of the planktonic copepod Notodiaptomus conifer. Semi-static assays were carried out using five concentrations of fish water (FW; 0.41–3.3 fish L 21 ), and a control (without fish). Copepods responded to FW by faster development and earlier maturation at smaller body size which resulted in a decline in the number of eggs in the first clutch. The proportional duration of each larval stage was not modified in the presence of fish chemical information, indicating that N. conifer maintained an equiproportional development according to the growth model proposed for copepods. Some parameters of the copepod life history changed depending on FW concentration, while other responses were induced merely by the presence of fish exudates, regardless of concentration. This study shows that calanoid copepods display as clear individual life history responses to kairomones as those that have been known for cladocerans, since 1980s. The observed responses are consistent with physiological mechanisms acting directly on development and constitute an example of the importance of predator–prey interactions as a selective force in aquatic environments.
Insect Gut Physiology and Nutrition: Insights into Diverse Systems

Diverse systems with distinctive approaches characterized the presentations in the Insect Gut Physiology and Nutrition Symposium, held during the Fourth International Conference in Africa for Comparative Physiology and Biochemistry at Mara, Kenya, in July 2008. Within the broad topic of insect nutrition, symposium talks examined the feeding behaviour and plant preference of mosquitoes, the effects of dietary levels of protein on grasshopper reproduction and longevity, and the dependence of honeybee survival on certain dietary components. Gut physiology was represented by a sophisticated study of membrane potential in the springtail, the gut as a point of infection for Sindbis virus in mosquito, and a study of the gut transcriptome and proteome of a coleopteran storage pest. A study of chemical ecology described methods currently being used in Kenya to control locust damage to crops. These presentations provided unique perspectives of insect nutrition and gut physiology as related to insect control or improved understanding of beneficial insects.
Uterine fibroids may play a protecting role against endometrial carcinoma in Chinese women with gynecological diseases

Abstract Background: It has been reported that uterine fibroids (UFs) may increase the risk of endometrial carcinoma (EC) with the underlying mechanism largely unknown. Here, we explore whether UF could be an influential factor for EC. Methods: We have collected and analyzed clinical data from 4537 Chinese patients to study the co-incidence of UF and EC. Then, a large-scale literature-based data mining was conducted to identify genes implicated as UF downstream regulating targets and EC upstream regulators. In addition, a meta-analysis has been conducted for each of the EC-specific genes, using six independent UF expression datasets. The meta-analysis results, together with literature-based pathway analysis, were used to explore the potential explanation of the clinical data. Results: Our results showed that the incidence rate of EC in the case of UF was 50.53% lower than without UF, which suggested a protective role of UF in EC patients. The meta-analysis identified three significantly overexpressed genes (HTRA3, HOPX, and PCNA) in the case of UF, which were implicated as EC inhibitors in the pathway analysis. Multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis showed that, compared with UF, aging might be a stronger influential factor for EC. Conclusion: Among women with gynecological diseases, UFs may play a protecting role against EC in the Chinese population.
Method for Estimation of Winter Browse Availability for the Japanese Serow from Stem Diameter‑Forage Weight Relationships

A method for estimating the availability of winter browse for the Japanese serow Capricornis crispus was examined on the basis of the stem basal diameters of five deciduous broadleaved species and two evergreen coniferous species. Regression equations were developed to convert basal area to browse mass for each species.
Comparisons of Peritoneal Transport between Insulin-Dependent and Noninsulin-Dependent Diabetic Peritoneal Dialysis Patients

Editar: We have previously shown that there was no difference in peritoneal transport of small solutes, assessed by peritoneal equilibration test (PET), between insulin-dependent diabetic (IDDM) and noninsulin-dependent diabetic patients (NIDDM) (1). However, the sample size of this report was limited. In this study we included more patient data and, in addition, examined IDDM and NIDDM patients who were matched in gender (5 females and 12 males in each group) and duration of PD (not more than 3 months difference). Patients were free of acute illness and peritonitis at least 6 weeks prior to PET, which was performed according to standard protocol. Patients were asked to bring in samples of urine and dialysate collected 24 hours prior to PET. Mass transfer coefficients of urea (MTCur) and creatinine (MTCcr) were calculated according to a bicompartmental model (2) with minor modifications (3). The normalized protein catabolic rate (NPCR in g/kg/day) was calculated according to Lameire et al. (4). Weekly Kt/V was the weekly urea clearance normalized to the total body water from Watson's formula (5). Data are presented as mean &plusmn; SD. IDDM patients (41.8 &plusmn; 14.5 years, range 24.8 72.1 years) were younger than NIDDM patients (60.6&plusmn; 9.9 years, range 38.6 75.4 years, p < 0.05). Their duration of hypertension (IDDM 89 &plusmn; 78 months, NIDDM 155 &plusmn; 151 months), and PD (IDDM 11.2 &plusmn; 8.1 months, NIDDM 11.6&plusmn; 8.7 months), peritonitis episodes/month (IDDM 0.07 &plusmn; 0.11 ep/mth, NIDDM 0.02 &plusmn; 0.44 ep/mth) were similar. There were no differences in their clinical and PET data (Tables 1 and 2). These findings confirmed our previous report (1) and clearly demonstrated that there was no difference in peritoneal solute transport between IDDM and NIDDM patients. J.-J. Lin N.K. Wadhwa . H. Suh T. Cabralda
Applying A Simulation Technique To Benefit-Cost Analysis of Gis: A Case Study of Daegu City, Korea

The purpose of this study is to apply a simulation technique to the benefit-cost analysis (BCA) of a geographical information system (GIS) and find some lessons from the results. For this purpose, the study selects Daegu City as a case. The third largest city in Korea, began to construct digital maps for GIS from the year 1988 and completed city-wide digital mapping for GIS in the year 2000. The study collects data from the year 1988 through 2000. Based on this data, the study simulates future costs and benefits in order to find the shortest payback period. According to a BCA simulation with 4% interest rate, accumulative net benefits become positive from the year 2011, which is 11 years after the completion of its GIS construction and 24 years after the beginning of digital mapping for GIS. Finally, the study discusses some pitfalls of BCA, such as unclear goal definition, weak assumption on the system sustainability and other intangible detriments.
Polymorphic microsatellite loci for the zebra shark Stegostoma fasciatum

We report on the development and characterization of 14 polymorphic microsatellite loci in the zebra shark (Stegostoma fasciatum). Five tetranucleotide and nine dinucleotide loci were polymorphic with heterozygosities ranging from 0.400 to 0.967 and from three to 22 alleles per locus. Cross-species amplification of these zebra shark primers on four other species of orectolobid sharks was not successful.
Trialling an automated passive acoustic detector (T-POD) with Hector's dolphins (Cephalorhynchus hectori)

Acoustic surveys can have several advantages over visual methods in surveys of cetaceans, although verification is required that novel techniques are effective. The T-POD is an autonomous acoustic data logger with inbuilt filters that can be set to match the click characteristics of the target species. We tested the performance of the T-POD for detecting Hector's dolphins at Flea Bay, Banks Peninsula, New Zealand. Simultaneous visual surveys were conducted from a hillside overlooking the bay, with distances between the T-POD and dolphins measured using a theodolite. Wideband sound recordings confirmed that T-POD detections were echolocation clicks made by Hector's dolphins. Detection probability and click train detection rate decreased with increasing distance, with no detections made beyond 500 m. By fitting detection functions to the probability of detection versus distance we showed that the T-POD effectively detected all dolphin groups within a radius of 198–239 m, depending on the click train categories utilized. The T-POD shows considerable promise as a tool for passive acoustic surveys of Hector's dolphins, with possible applications in studies of distribution, habitat use and echolocation behaviour.
Effects of exogenous fibrolytic enzymes on in sacco and in vitro degradation of diets and on growth performance of lambs

This study evaluated the effects of doses of exogenous fibrolytic enzymes (enzyme) on in vitro (IVD) and in sacco degradation (ISD) of dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) of diets with 70% concentrate (as DM), as well as their effects on growth performance in lambs. A gas production technique was used to determine IVD. Six ruminally cannulated lambs in a replicated 3×3 Latin Square were used to determine ISD. Three diets (treatments) added with enzyme (0, 3 and 6 g enzyme/kg DM) were evaluated for IVD and ISD. For the growth assay, 48 lambs (17.6±2.5 kg of body weight) fed on two diets with 0 or 3 g enzyme/kg DM were used. There were linear increases of gas production rate as enzyme level in the diets increased. At 48 h of fermentation, there were quadratic increases of IVD as enzyme level increased in the diets. A quadratic change was observed in volatile fatty acids and ammonia N as enzyme was increased in the diet. At 12 h, the highest enzyme level (6 g) increased ISD of DM as compared with the control. There was a quadratic effect on the disappearance rate as enzyme level in the diet increased. Exogenous fibrolytic enzymes improved IVD degradation and fermentation characteristics as well as ISD rate of DM, but there were not any effect of these enzymes on ISD of NDF of diets and growth performance of finishing lambs.
Epidermal Structures of the Bill and Lingua of the Eurasian Collared Dove (S treptopelia decaocto )

Epidermal structures of the head, bill, lingua and buccal cavity of the Eurasian Collared Dove (S treptopelia decaocto ) are studied to investigate the likely existence of an eco-morphological (i.e. form-function) pattern relating morphology of epidermal structures to food and feeding behaviour in ecological conditions (i.e. habit and habitat use). A total four specimens of adult birds are obtained for examination from natural mortalities in rural, urban and forest habitats of Central Saurashtra of Western India. All the morphological features of species are observed in living as well as in freshly preserved (40% formalin sol.) with the help of a pair of binoculars in field and in laboratory with the help of Stereo-zoom dissecting microscope and camera-Lucida are used for illustrations. Usually, the Eurasian Collared Dove chiefly feeds upon plant matters i.e. grain and seed in various microhabitats like vegetation layers, crop fields, grass lands, foliage, garbage and food offering places. Its epidermal structures of the jaws, lingua and buccal cavity are adapted to feed on such food items and assist in foraging and plucking, gapping, picking and pecking feeding technique of the bird species.
STUDIES ON CEREAL SOIL-BORNE VIRUSES IN POLAND

Four soil-borne cereal viruses have been identified in Poland, so far: Soil-borne cereal mosaic virus (SBCMV), Wheat spindle streak mosaic virus (WSSMV), Barley yellow mosaic virus (BaYMV) and Barley mild mosaic virus (BaMMV). SBCMV was identified in 1993 as a dangerous pathogen of winter cereals and became the object of special interest. Studies on the virus included its biological and molecular characterization, and investigations of the response of winter wheat and winter triticale cultivars on the SBCMV infection. Results of preliminary experiments aiming at the evaluation of the response of winter barley cultivars on barley yellow mosaic viruses were also presented.
Gatekeepers

Criminal history and race have been prominent figures in the research of discrimination in the labor market. Initially there was a heavy reliance on statistical analysis of employment data as an indicator of bias in employment. The use of field experiments that use audits conducted by testers applying for entry-level positions has become an important resource in the examination of discrimination in the labor force. The testers are matched on all characteristics, but race. In the present study, evidence of discrimination relied heavily on a comparison of callbacks for entry-level positions of Black male and White male testers based on their race and criminal history. Testers were required to participate in debriefings and maintain a diary of all of their interactions during the application process. Three themes emerged from the diaries and debriefings of the testers: (a) the application process was influenced by a “gatekeeper,” (b) racism was evident, and (c) an emotional effect was noted on both testers.
Scots pine bait seedling performance and root colonizing ectomycorrhizal fungal community dynamics before and during the 4 years after forest clear-cut logging

The aim of the study was an integrated monitoring of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) bait seedling performance and ectomycorrhizal fungal community dynamics in a Scots pine dominated stand one growing season before and over four seasons after forest clear-cut logging. The effects of planting location and time were assessed in relation to subsequent seedling performance and ectomycorrhizal diversity. Application of advanced regeneration, where seedlings were planted one growing season before the clear-cut event, resulted in increased seedling growth in the clear-cut area over the subsequent 4 years. However, counterparts planted in the interface zone in 1997, between the future uncut stand and the clear-cut area, exhibited poorer growth compared with those planted after clear-cut harvesting. The interface zone was generally richest in ectomycorrhizal diversity, and this was confirmed using complementary morphotyping and rDNA-based identification methods. Large numbers of ectomycorrhizal types were present on Scots pine seedling roots and instead of detecting dramatic changes in total number of types, species composition changes could be better related to changes in exploratory types of ectomycorrhizas with a trend towards less rhizomorphic types in the clear-cut treatment compared with the control forest. Changes in the community structure are presumably influenced by changing environmental conditions in the site.