Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Bisphenol S in Food Causes Hormonal and Obesogenic Effects Comparable to or Worse than Bisphenol A: A Literature Review

In recent years, bisphenol analogues such as bisphenol S (BPS) have come to replace bisphenol A in food packaging and food containers, since bisphenol A (BPA) has been shown to leach into food and water, causing numerous negative health effects. Unfortunately, little or no research was done to determine the safety of these BPA-free products before they were marketed to the public as a healthier alternative. The latest studies have shown that some of these bisphenol analogues may be even more harmful than the original BPA in some situations. This article used a literature survey to investigate the bisphenol analogue BPS and compare it to BPA and other analogues with regards to increased obesity, metabolic disorders, cancer, and reproductive defects; among others. It was found that BPS works via different pathways than does BPA while causing equivalent obesogenic effects, such as activating preadipocytes, and that BPS was correlated with metabolic disorders, such as gestational diabetes, that BPA was not correlated with. BPS was also shown to be more toxic to the reproductive system than BPA and was shown to hormonally promote certain breast cancers at the same rate as BPA. Therefore, a strong argument may be made to regulate BPS in exactly the same manner as BPA.
Quantitative proteomics analysis reveals important roles of N-glycosylation on ER quality control system for development and pathogenesis in Magnaporthe oryzae

Genetic studies have shown essential functions of N-glycosylation during infection of the plant pathogenic fungi, however, systematic roles of N-glycosylation in fungi is still largely unknown. Biological analysis demonstrated N-glycosylated proteins were widely present at different development stages of Magnaporthe oryzae and especially increased in the appressorium and invasive hyphae. A large-scale quantitative proteomics analysis was then performed to explore the roles of N-glycosylation in M. oryzae. A total of 559 N-glycosites from 355 proteins were identified and quantified at different developmental stages. Functional classification to the N-glycosylated proteins revealed N-glycosylation can coordinate different cellular processes for mycelial growth, conidium formation, and appressorium formation. N-glycosylation can also modify key components in N-glycosylation, O-glycosylation and GPI anchor pathways, indicating intimate crosstalk between these pathways. Interestingly, we found nearly all key components of the endoplasmic reticulum quality control (ERQC) system were highly N-glycosylated in conidium and appressorium. Phenotypic analyses to the gene deletion mutants revealed four ERQC components, Gls1, Gls2, GTB1 and Cnx1, are important for mycelial growth, conidiation, and invasive hyphal growth in host cells. Subsequently, we identified the Gls1 N-glycosite N497 was important for invasive hyphal growth and partially required for conidiation, but didn’t affect colony growth. Mutation of N497 resulted in reduction of Gls1 in protein level, and localization from ER into the vacuole, suggesting N497 is important for protein stability of Gls1. Our study showed a snapshot of the N-glycosylation landscape in plant pathogenic fungi, indicating functions of this modification in cellular processes, developments and pathogenesis.
Synthesis of Multiwall Boron Nitride (BN) Nanotubes by a PVD Method Based on Vapor–Liquid–Solid Growth

Multiwall boron nitride (BN) nanotubes were synthesized by a novel physical vapor deposition (PVD) method, in which the BN nanotubes grow on a compact substrate composed of AlN, γ-Al2O3, Y2O3, and carbon powders. The obtained BN nanotubes assemble in an orderly manner with a typical length of over one millimeter and a diameter of one-hundred nanometers. The hollow multiwall tubes have a spherical tip, which is presumed to be a liquid drop at the synthesis temperature, indicating the vapor–liquid–solid (VLS) growth mechanism.
Intraoperative Oxygen Delivery and Acute Kidney Injury after Liver Transplantation

Although intraoperative hemodynamic variables were reported to be associated with acute kidney injury (AKI) after liver transplantation, the time-dependent association between intraoperative oxygen delivery and AKI has not yet been evaluated. We reviewed 676 cases of liver transplantation. Oxygen delivery index (DO2I) was calculated at least ten times during surgery. AKI was defined according to the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes criteria. The area under the curve (AUC) was calculated as below a DO2I of 300 (AUC < 300), 400 and 500 mL/min/m2 threshold. Also, the cumulative time below a DO2I of 300 (Time < 300), 400, and 500 mL/min/m2 were calculated. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate whether AUC < 300 or time < 300 was independently associated with the risk of AKI. As a sensitivity analysis, propensity score matching analysis was performed between the two intraoperative mean DO2I groups using a cutoff of 500 mL/min/m2, and the incidence of AKI was compared between the groups. Multivariable analysis showed that AUC < 300 or time < 300 was an independent predictor of AKI (AUC < 300: odds ratio [OR] = 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06–1.13, time < 300: OR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.08–1.14). Propensity score matching yielded 192 pairs of low and high mean DO2I groups. The incidence of overall and stage 2 or 3 AKI was significantly higher in the lower DO2I group compared to the higher group (overall AKI: lower group, n = 64 (33.3%) vs. higher group, n = 106 (55.2%), p < 0.001). In conclusion, there was a significant time-dependent association between the intraoperative poor oxygen delivery < 300 mL/min/m2 and the risk of AKI after liver transplantation. The intraoperative optimization of oxygen delivery may mitigate the risk of AKI.
Dimension Effects on the Acoustic Behavior of TRC Plates

Acoustic emission (AE) is a monitoring technique that has proven its suitability in and outside of the laboratory in characterizing the structural condition of materials. In composites for construction and repair, several breakthroughs have been recently noted involving mainly fracture mode evaluation based on the AE waveform characteristics. However, the acquired signals, apart from the cracking source strongly depend on the size and shape of the plate specimens. While the effect of wave propagation distance has been studied, the effect of the lateral dimension of the plate has not been given proper attention, being a broken link in translating the results from small coupons to real size plates. This paper examines wave propagation from artificial sources as well as actual AE signals in textile-reinforced cement (TRC) plates indicating the strong differences in the results that are attributed just to the shape and size of the specimens and showing that interpretation toward the actual sources is firmly connected to geometric factors.
Law, Culture, and Fear: A Qualitative Study of Health Professionals’ Perceptions of Narcotic Use Related to Cancer Pain

Abstract Studies have shown barriers to appropriate narcotic use in the Middle East have negatively impacted patient outcomes. This study aimed to explore health professionals’ perspectives regarding opioid use for cancer patients in Qatar. Eight focus groups were conducted with physicians, pharmacists, and nurses. An eight-question topic guide framed discussions and targeted contextual barriers and cultural beliefs. Focus groups were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to identify the following themes: narcotic use process, patient-related factors, and healthcare professional-related factors. Laws and regulations were identified as major barriers to appropriate narcotic access, prescribing, and administration. Government-imposed restrictions on permitted dispensed quantities and associated paperwork impeded continuity of patient care and pain relief. The influence of a patient’s culture underpinned patient-related barriers, including fear of addiction and family members discouraging opioid use. Fear of prescribing for patient addiction and accusation of inappropriate prescribing by authorities were identified as health professional-related barriers. Facilitators included patient and provider education, as well as the availability of specialized teams to assess and treat cancer-related pain. Findings show narcotic utilization is not simply influenced by a single factor or subset of factors but by a multitude of factors that can be both independent and interrelated.
Hepatic monoamine oxidase B is involved in endogenous geranylgeranoic acid synthesis in mammalian liver cells[S]

Geranylgeranoic acid (GGA) originally was identified in some animals and has been developed as an agent for preventing second primary hepatoma. We previously have also identified GGA as an acyclic diterpenoid in some medicinal herbs. Recently, we reported that in human hepatoma-derived HuH-7 cells, GGA is metabolically labeled from 13C-mevalonate. Several cell-free experiments have demonstrated that GGA is synthesized through geranylgeranial by oxygen-dependent oxidation of geranylgeraniol (GGOH), but the exact biochemical events giving rise to GGA in hepatoma cells remain unclear. Monoamine oxidase B (MOAB) has been suggested to be involved in GGOH oxidation. Here, using two human hepatoma cell lines, we investigated whether MAOB contributes to GGA biosynthesis. Using either HuH-7 cell lysates or recombinant human MAOB, we found that: 1) the MAO inhibitor tranylcypromine dose-dependently downregulates endogenous GGA levels in HuH-7 cells; and 2) siRNA-mediated MAOB silencing reduces intracellular GGA levels in HuH-7 and Hep3B cells. Unexpectedly, however, CRISPR/Cas9-generated MAOB-KO human hepatoma Hep3B cells had GGA levels similar to those in MAOB-WT cells. A sensitivity of GGA levels to siRNA-mediated MAOB downregulation was recovered when the MAOB-KO cells were transfected with a MAOB-expression plasmid, suggesting that MAOB is the enzyme primarily responsible for GGOH oxidation and that some other latent metabolic pathways may maintain endogenous GGA levels in the MAOB-KO hepatoma cells. Along with the previous findings, these results provide critical insights into the biological roles of human MAOB and provide evidence that hepatic MAOB is involved in endogenous GGA biosynthesis via GGOH oxidation.
Serum testosterone levels in bipolar and unipolar depressed female patients and the role of medication status

Abstract Objective: to compare testosterone levels between female depressed patients and female bipolar patients. Methods: Sixty-one female patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) (n = 23) or bipolar disorder (BD) (n = 38) between 18 and 45 years old were included in the study. Participants were evaluated during a depressive or manic episode with the Hamilton depression rating scale (HDRS) or Young mania rating scale (YMRS), respectively. No patients in the MDD group were taken valproate while in the BD group 14 (36.84%) were taken valproate. Total testosterone (TT) and free testosterone (FT) levels were quantified during the early follicular phase of the cycle, with radioimmunoassay or solid phase enzyme-linked immunoassay. Data were collected from May 2016 to February 2017. Results: Mean TT serum levels were significantly higher in BD patients in comparison to MDD patients. Although age and diagnosis were related to TT levels, however when we added valproate use in the analysis, only the relation between TT and valproate use remained significant. Conclusions: In this sample, TT levels were related to valproate use in patients with BD. More studies regarding the role of testosterone in affective symptoms should be conducted to clarify the relation between testosterone, affective disorders, and medication. Keypoints We observed that testosterone levels were significant higher in bipolar women compared to women with MDD. The use of valproate could be associated with the testosterone levels in female patients with BD. Evaluation of women suffering BD should include a testosterone levels determination, particularly when they are taking valproate.
Myosin heavy chain-embryonic regulates skeletal muscle differentiation during mammalian development

ABSTRACT Myosin heavy chain-embryonic (MyHC-emb) is a skeletal muscle-specific contractile protein expressed during muscle development. Mutations in MYH3, the gene encoding MyHC-emb, lead to Freeman–Sheldon and Sheldon–Hall congenital contracture syndromes. Here, we characterize the role of MyHC-emb during mammalian development using targeted mouse alleles. Germline loss of MyHC-emb leads to neonatal and postnatal alterations in muscle fiber size, fiber number, fiber type and misregulation of genes involved in muscle differentiation. Deletion of Myh3 during embryonic myogenesis leads to the depletion of the myogenic progenitor cell pool and an increase in the myoblast pool, whereas fetal myogenesis-specific deletion of Myh3 causes the depletion of both myogenic progenitor and myoblast pools. We reveal that the non-cell-autonomous effect of MyHC-emb on myogenic progenitors and myoblasts is mediated by the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling pathway, and exogenous FGF rescues the myogenic differentiation defects upon loss of MyHC-emb function in vitro. Adult Myh3 null mice exhibit scoliosis, a characteristic phenotype exhibited by individuals with Freeman–Sheldon and Sheldon–Hall congenital contracture syndrome. Thus, we have identified MyHC-emb as a crucial myogenic regulator during development, performing dual cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous functions. This article has an associated ‘The people behind the papers’ interview. Highlighted Article: Myh3 mouse alleles reveal that MyHC-embryonic is crucial for skeletal muscle development and adult Myh3 null mice exhibit scoliosis, a phenotype seen in congenital contracture syndromes.
Adversity, Mental Health, and Substance Use Disorders as Predictors and Mediators of Rule Violations in U.S. Prisons

This study explores how typologies of adversity and mental health/substance use disorders impact rule violations during incarceration. Data come from the 2004 cross-sectional Survey of Inmates in State and Federal Correctional Facilities (SI-SFCF). Logistic regression and structural equation modeling were used for analysis. Results link history of adverse experiences to rule violations during incarceration and demonstrate how mental health and substance use disorders mediate this relationship. Incarcerated people with severe histories of adverse experiences had the highest odds of rule violations, relative to people with low adversity, for all typologies. More severe adversity typologies predicted mental health and substance use disorders. Alcohol and substance use disorders predicted drug violations, whereas substance use and mental health disorders predicted major violations. Serious mental illness did not predict rule violations when accounting for adversity. Findings suggest that addressing adverse experiences, mental health, and substance use disorders may prevent rule violations.
Association of elevated interleukin-33 serum levels with tumorstages in patients with prostate cancer

Background: Inflammation has a prominent role in cancer development and interleukin (IL)-33 has both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to measure IL-33 quantities and genetic alterations in the rs1929992 SNP within IL-33 gene in patients with prostate cancer (PC). Methods: This investigation was conducted on blood specimens from 150 newly diagnosed PC patients and 150 healthy age-matched controls. Serum IL-33 measurements and genotyping were performed by ELISA and PCR-RFLP, respectively. Results: Elevated IL-33 quantities were detected in PC patients compared with controls (P < 0.001). The PC patients with Gleason scores 7-10 displayed greater IL-33 quantities than those who had Gleason scores 1-6 (P < 0.001). Significant differences were found between PC stages regarding the IL-33 serum levels (P < 0.001). The frequencies of the genotypeGGand alleleG in rs1929992 SNP were higher, whereas the frequencies of the genotype AA and allele A were lower in PC patients, as compared with controls (P < 0.05, 0.01, P < 0.002 and P < 0.01, respectively). The genotype GG and allele G of rs1929992 SNP were associated with a greater risk of cancer development (OR: 4.533; P < 0.001, and OR: 1.516; P < 0.01, respectively). The IL-33 levels were not significantly different between the subjects carrier genotypes AA, AG and GG, or alleles A and G in rs1929992 SNP, neither in patients nor in controls. Conclusion: Higher IL-33 quantities were found in patients with PC, especially in those with greater stages which raises the possiblity that IL-33 may contribute to PC progression. The rs1929992 SNP-related genotype GG and allele G were associated with an increased risk of cancer development.
Antibiotic burden of school children from Tibetan, Hui, and Han groups in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau

Background Given their geographical proximity but differences in cultural and religious dietary customs, we hypothesize that children from the three main ethnic populations (Han, Hui, and Tibetan) residing in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau region differs in their non-iatrogenic antibiotic loads. Methods To determine the antibiotic burden of the school children unrelated to medical treatment, we quantified the antibiotic residues in morning urine samples from 92 Han, 72 Tibetan, and 85 Muslim Hui primary school children aged 8 to 12 years using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and performed correlation analysis between these data and concurrent dietary nutrition assessments. Results Sixteen of the 18 targeted antibiotics (4 macrolides, 3 β-lactams, 2 tetracyclines, 4 quinolones, 3 sulfonamides, and 2 aminoanols) were identified in the urine samples with an overall detection frequency of 58.63%. The detection frequency of the six antibiotic classes ranged from 1.61% to 32.53% with ofloxacin showing the single highest frequency (18.47%). Paired comparison analysis revealed significant differences in antibiotic distribution frequency among groups, with Tibetans having higher enrofloxacin (P = 0.015) and oxytetracycline (P = 0.021) than Han children. Norfloxacin (a human/veterinary antibiotic) was significantly higher in the Hui children than in the Han children (P = 0.024). Dietary nutrient intake assessments were comparable among participants, showing adequate levels of essential vitamins and minerals across all three ethnic groups. However, significant differences in specific foods were observed among groups, notably in lower fat consumption in the Hui group. Conclusions The introduction and accumulation of antibiotic residues in school children through non-iatrogenic routes (food or environmental sources) poses a serious potential health risk and merits closer scrutiny to determine the sources. While the exact sources of misused or overused antibiotics remains unclear, further study can potentially correlate ethnicity-specific dietary practices with the sources of contamination.
Understanding HIV-positive drug users' experiences of taking Highly Active Antiretroviral Treatment: the Identity-Value-Conscious engagement Model.

AIM To explore HIV-positive drug users' experiences of taking antiretroviral medications in Taiwan, and further develop a conceptual model that can be used to understand their adherence to the long-term treatment. BACKGROUND The global vision of ending AIDS by 2030 cannot be achieved without addressing HIV-positive drug users' experience of taking antiretroviral treatment. There remains a paucity of qualitative evidence on HIV-positive drug users' experiences of taking antiretroviral medications globally and in East Asia. Nurses play a key role in supporting HIV-positive drug users throughout their treatment process. Therefore, it is pivotal to understand HIV-positive drug users' experiences of managing long-term anti-HIV treatment. DESIGN This qualitative study drew on a constructivist grounded theory approach to achieve the aims. Semi-structured in-depth interviews with 22 HIV-positive drug users were conducted in Taiwan between September 2015 and July 2016. Data were analysed using Charmaz's coding principles. The integration and formation of the model began with focused coding and proceeded through the subsequent analytic process. The reporting of this study was based on the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist. RESULTS This study shows that integrating HIV-positive identity into sense of self laid a solid foundation for the acceptance of self and antiretroviral treatment. Valuing of antiretroviral treatment played a central role in driving their medication-taking behaviour. While valuing the treatment appeared to drive participants' behavioural change, data revealed that conscious engagement was an important element for their behaviour maintenance. CONCLUSION The evidence from this study can extend our knowledge of the mechanisms that influence the change and maintenance of HIV-positive drug users' adherence to antiretroviral treatment. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE The Identity-Value-Conscious engagement Model developed and proposed in this study can serve as a guide for the development of tailored adherence assessment and associated nursing interventions for this population.
Analytical and Numerical Model of High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Enhanced With Nanoparticles

Objective: High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a new noninvasive therapeutics that allows local treatment of solid tumors through a hyperthermal mechanism using ultrasonic energy. One promising strategy to increase the thermal efficiency of HIFU is to employ nanoparticles (NPs) as ultrasound agents for the hyperthermia procedure. However, the interaction mechanism between NPs and ultrasonic waves has not been well understood. Methods: In an effort to investigate the heating process of NPs-enhanced HIFU, we derived a set of HIFU equations governing the temperature variation during the thermal ablation based on the principle of conservation of energy for heat transfer mechanism. A numerical model was developed to solve the HIFU equations to simulate the absorption mechanism of HIFU in the presence of NPs, the consequent heat transfer process, and the temperature rise profile during the sonication period. The accuracy of numerical model was verified by performing a series of experiments on tissue-mimicking phantoms embedded with magnetic NPs (MNPs). Results: The transport processes taking place at the boundaries between NPs and surrounding medium played the major role in the temperature rise during HIFU sonication. Besides, the effects of MNPs on rising temperature were improved by amplifying the ultrasonic power and frequency as well as by increasing the MNP concentration. Conclusion: A quantitative comparison with experimental results demonstrated the potential of the numerical model to accurately predict the heating mechanism of HIFU mediated by NPs. Significance: The proposed method can help with simulation of HIFU when NPs are employed as ultrasound agents.