bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of the state management system for horticulture production sales: organizational and financial aspects
Authors:   National Technical University of Ukraine “Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute”, IVANYTSKA Olga , GOLOVIN Roman ,   SESE “The Academy of Financial Management”
Published: May 2023

Introduction. State regulation should embrace not only the sphere of production, but also the sphere of circulation of horticulture production. The amount of state budget revenues and the solution of numerous social and economic problems depend on the successful implementation of measures of state management of horticulture production exports, control of financial flows generated in this area. Problem Statement. Scientific substantiation of the formation of a single state body of management of horticulture production circulation. Purpose. To substantiate proposals for strengthening the state financial regulation of the processes of horticulture production circulation. Methods. The following methods were used: abstract and logical, systematization, dialectical and formal logic, expert evaluation. Results. The system of horticulture production circulation in Ukraine is researched. A number of negative phenomena related to the inefficiency of state mechanisms for regulating the sale of horticulture production have been identified, in particular, purchase prices and sales prices for horticulture production are dramatically lower than the world average; the spread of shadow circulation of horticulture production is observed, including the participation of its exporters, which indicates the receiving of excess profits by participants of export operations. At the same time, Ukraine is a significant participant in the global market of horticulture production, and due to increasing government impact on the organization and control over the sale of horticulture production, especially in foreign markets, the significant replenishment of the country's budget could be expected. Conclusions. The state management at the sphere of horticulture production circulation involves taking into account many factors operating in foreign and domestic markets and having a negative impact on the opportune and full receipt of funds from the sale of products to the state budget. The shadowing of agricultural production and sales, the lack of effective pricing mechanisms, and insufficient control over foreign economic operations undermine the basis of sustainable activity of the agricultural sector and the country's economy as a whole. We consider that the problems with the regulation of the circulation of horticulture products can be solved by an authorized state body with special functions and powers, which can be created on the basis of the State Reserve Agency of Ukraine. It is advisable to provide it with the powers of the sole exporter of horticulture production; the sole State purchaser of horticulture production; the sole controller of the circulation of horticulture production and its processed products.
Financial and organizational problems of public-private partnership development
Authors:   SESE “The Academy of Financial Management”, PAVLIUK Klavdiia , OLIEVSKA Myroslava ,   SESE “The Academy of Financial Management”, KAMINSKA Olena ,   SESE “The Academy of Financial Management”
Published: May 2023

Introduction. The nature and methods of state participation in economic processes are constantly changing. One of the new forms and tools of influence, alternative to direct regulation of the economy, is a system of partnership relations between the state and the private sector - public-private partnership (PPP). Problem Statement. An important direction of the post-war recovery of Ukraine's economy is the intensification of the development of interaction between the public and private sectors. Due to the need for additional financing, it is necessary to improve the mechanism of attracting private investments and using PPPs to accelerate the restoration of destroyed objects and the construction of new ones. For this, it is necessary to study the experience of foreign countries, both positive and negative, in the implementation of PPP, taking into account various approaches to assessing its features and essence in general. Purpose. To generalize the foreign experience of interaction between the state and the private sector in the context of analyzing a wide range of its characteristics and providing suggestions on ways to develop PPPs in Ukraine. Methods. General scientific methods are applied: induction, deduction, comparative analysis, generalization. Results. The interpretation of the PPP by well-known foreign and domestic scientists, as well as international financial organizations, is considered. The role of PPP in socio-economic development and its main principles are analyzed. The negative trends of the interaction between the state and the private sector are highlighted, which, in particular, is evidenced by the experience of Germany. In particular, such important principles of PPP as transparency and control, full disclosure of information contained in documents on the preparation, course of implementation and implementation of PPP results are not fully ensured. Conclusions. It is necessary to rethink the role, place, interaction of the state and the private sector of the PPP in the socio-economic development of society, both in foreign countries and in Ukraine. In the conditions of martial law and post-war reconstruction, the following issues need to be resolved: the use of PPPs for the development of communal infrastructure, improving the quality of services for the population and increasing the efficiency of the use of communal assets; overcoming the budget funding deficit and legislative restrictions on attracting municipal loans at the expense of private capital through the PPP mechanism; expansion of the independence of territorial communities from subsidies and subventions from the state budget in the post-war period with the help of PPPs.
What makes online political ads unacceptable? Interrogating public attitudes to inform regulatory responses
Authors: Zhu Junyan , Dommett Katharine , Stafford Tom
Published: May 2023

Online political advertising is often portrayed in a negative light, yet there is limited evidence about what exactly the public deems unacceptable about it. This paper provides new insights into public attitudes through an online survey where 1,881 respondents evaluated all political ads placed on Facebook during the 2019 UK General Election. We find that citizens do not inherently think political ads are problematic. Examining two possible regulatory responses, first, we find that compliance with existing regulatory protocols for non-political advertising is a strong predictor of political ad acceptability, suggesting a case for extending the existing regulatory regime to include political ads. We also find that people had particular concerns about the content and tone of unacceptable ads, highlighting the value of codes of conduct to promote good practice. Overall, this paper offers a nuanced account of attitudes towards online political advertising and identifies possible pathways for regulatory reform.
FIBER-TANGLED
Authors: Mandlik Aditya
Published: May 2023

Tactility and temporality is second nature to most Indian cities. This construct is orchestrated by the quick deployment of "need-driven" infrastructure. These cities experience the growth of such informal and temporal structures on occasions of festivals and community events, like the Kumbh Mela. Kumbh Mela is a religious festival, for which an entire temporary city is created to host around 15 - 20 million people. The material system behind these structures is composed of plastic, polyester cladding and iron, steel or bamboo framework, which results in partial curated re-use, however the ultimate life cycle end to the material palette is usually in the landfill. Fiber-Tangled explores the possibilities and limitations of spraying, non-woven natural fibers and bio-based binder composite for rapid on-site construction of low-cost tensile membrane structures.
A presença do “stylus phantasticus” na Tocata BWV 912 de Johann Sebastian Bach
Authors: Thomasi Genero Lucas , Jank Helena
Published: May 2023

O stylus phantasticus foi um estilo de composição e de performance desenvolvido no século XVII e foi relacionado com a adoção da liberdade, tanto pelo compositor quanto pelo intérprete, para mover os afetos dos ouvintes, arrebatando-os por meio de um jogo de expectativas. Este estilo de composição musical foi objeto de estudo de diversos teóricos da música, especialmente por Athanasius Kircher e Johann Mattheson. Johann Sebastian Bach se valeu desse estilo notadamente em suas tocatas para cravo solo BWV 910-916, compostas no início do século XVIII. Este artigo propõe uma investigação do stylus phantasticus, a partir das fontes primárias que construíram este conceito até o contexto em que Bach estava inserido, e a análise de como este estilo se manifesta na tocata BWV 912.
Photothermally responsive icariin and carbon nanofiber modified hydrogels for the treatment of periodontitis
Authors: Zheng Xiangjiao , Dong Zhiqiang , Liang Zepeng , Liu Yu , Yin Xiaowei , Han Mofei , Cui Zhongcheng , Mei Xifan , Gao Xiuqiu
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease brought on by various bacteria, and effective antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and alveolar bone regeneration are the main goals of treating periodontal disease.

Methods: In the current work, we employed Icariin (ICA) into a hydrogel modified with carbon nanofiber (CNF) to create a multifunctional composite nanoplatform. The composite was activated in the near infrared (NIR) to treat periodontitis.

Results: The antibacterial results showed that the ICA+CNF@H showed 94.2% and 91.7% clearance of S. aureus and E. coli, respectively, under NIR irradiation. In vitro experiments showed that NIR-irradiated composites suppressed inflammatory factor (IL-6) and ROS expression and up-regulated the performance of anti-inflammatory factor (IL-10) in RAW264.7 cells. At the same time, the composites promoted the production of osteogenic factors in BMSCs, with an approximately 3-fold increase in alkaline phosphatase activity after 7 days and an approximately 2-fold increase in the rate of extracellular matrix mineralization after 21 days. In vivo tests showed that the alveolar bone height was clearly greater in the ICA+CNF@H (NIR) group compared to the periodontitis group.

Discussion: In conclusion, ICA+CNF@H under NIR irradiation achieved a synergistic effect of antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, reduction of reactive oxygen species and promotion of osteogenesis, offering a novel approach for treating periodontitis.
Human sperm proteome reveals the effect of environmental borne seminal polyaromatic hydrocarbons exposome in etiology of idiopathic male factor infertility
Authors: Nayak Jasmine , Jena Soumya Ranjan , Kumar Sugandh , Kar Sujata , Dixit Anshuman , Samanta Luna
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are considered as redox active environmental toxicants inducing oxidative stress (OS) mediated injury to cells. Oxidative predominance is reported in 30%–80% of idiopathic male infertility (IMI) patients. Hence, this work aims to unravel correlation, if any, between seminal PAH exposome and sperm function in IMI patients through a proteomic approach.

Methods: Seminal PAH exposome was analyzed in 43 fertile donors and 60 IMI patients by HPLC and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was applied to find out the cut-off limits. Spermatozoa proteome was analyzed by label free liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS) followed by molecular pathway analysis using bioinformatic tools. Validation of key proteins’ expression and protein oxidative modifications were analyzed by western blot.

Results and discussion: Of the 16 standards toxic PAH, 13 were detected in semen. Impact of the different PAHs on fertility are Anthracene < benzo (a) pyrene < benzo [b] fluoranthene < Fluoranthene < benzo (a) anthracene <indol (123CD) pyrene < pyrene < naphthalene < dibenzo (AH) anthracene < fluorene < 2bromonaphthalene < chrysene < benzo (GH1) perylene as revealed by ROC Curve analysis (AUCROC). Benzo [a] pyrene is invariably present in all infertile patients while naphthalene is present in both groups. Of the total 773 detected proteins (Control: 631 and PAH: 717); 71 were differentially expressed (13 underexpressed, 58 overexpressed) in IMI patients. Enrichment analysis revealed them to be involved in mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative phosphorylation, DNA damage, Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) signaling, xenobiotic metabolism and induction of NRF-2 mediated OS response. Increased 4-hydroxynonenal and nitrosylated protein adduct formation, and declined antioxidant defense validates induction of OS. Increased GSH/GSSG ratio in patients may be an adaptive response for PAH metabolism via conjugation as evidenced by over-expression of AHR and Heat shock protein 90 beta (HSP90β) in patients. Seminal PAH concentrations, particularly benzo (a) pyrene can be used as a marker to distinguish IMI from fertile ones with 66.67% sensitivity and 100% specificity (95% confidence interval) along with oxidative protein modification and expression of AHR and HSP90β.
The Gal/GalNac lectin as a possible acetylcholine receptor in Entamoeba histolytica
Authors: Pacheco-Sánchez Marisol , Martínez-Hernández Sandra Luz , Muñoz-Ortega Martín Humberto , Reyes-Martínez Jesús Alejandro , Ávila-Blanco Manuel Enrique , Ventura-Juárez Javier
Published: May 2023

Entamoeba histolytica (E. histolytica) is a protozoan responsible for intestinal amebiasis in at least 500 million people per year, although only 10% of those infected show severe symptoms. It is known that E. histolytica captures molecules released during the host immune response through membrane receptors that favor its pathogenetic mechanisms for the establishment of amebic invasion. It has been suggested that E. histolytica interacts with acetylcholine (ACh) through its membrane. This promotes the increase of virulence factors and diverse mechanisms carried out by the amoeba to produce damage. The aim of this study is to identify a membrane receptor in E. histolytica trophozoites for ACh. Methods included identification by colocalization for the ACh and Gal/GalNAc lectin binding site by immunofluorescence, western blot, bioinformatic analysis, and quantification of the relative expression of Ras 5 and Rab 7 GTPases by RT-qPCR. Results show that the Gal/GalNAc lectin acts as a possible binding site for ACh and this binding may occur through the 150 kDa intermediate subunit. At the same time, this interaction activates the GTPases, Ras, and Rab, which are involved in the proliferation, and reorganization of the amoebic cytoskeleton and vesicular trafficking. In conclusion, ACh is captured by the parasite, and the interaction promotes the activation of signaling pathways involved in pathogenicity mechanisms, contributing to disease and the establishment of invasive amebiasis.
Blood flow kinetic energy is a novel marker for right ventricular global systolic function in patients with left ventricular assist device therapy
Authors: Akiyama Koichi , Colombo Paolo C. , Stöhr Eric J. , Ji Ruiping , Wu Isaac Y. , Itatani Keiichi , Miyazaki Shohei , Nishino Teruyasu , Nakamura Naotoshi , Nakajima Yasufumi , McDonnell Barry J , Takeda Koji , Yuzefpolskaya Melana , Takayama Hiroo
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Right ventricular (RV) failure remains a major concern in heart failure (HF) patients undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. We aimed to measure the kinetic energy of blood in the RV outflow tract (KE-RVOT) – a new marker of RV global systolic function. We also aimed to assess the relationship of KE-RVOT to other echocardiographic parameters in all subjects and assess the relationship of KE-RVOT to hemodynamic parameters of RV performance in HF patients.

Methods

Fifty-one subjects were prospectively enrolled into 4 groups (healthy controls, NYHA Class II, NYHA Class IV, LVAD patients) as follows: 11 healthy controls, 32 HF patients (8 NYHA Class II and 24 Class IV), and 8 patients with preexisting LVADs. The 24 Class IV HF patients included 21 pre-LVAD and 3 pre-transplant patients. Echocardiographic parameters of RV function (TAPSE, St', Et', IVA, MPI) and RV outflow color-Doppler images were recorded in all patients. Invasive hemodynamic parameters of RV function were collected in all Class IV HF patients. KE-RVOT was derived from color-Doppler imaging using a vector flow mapping proprietary software. Kruskal-Wallis test was performed for comparison of KE-RVOT in each group. Correlation between KE-RVOT and echocardiographic/hemodynamic parameters was assessed by linear regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristic curves for the ability of KE-RVOT to predict early phase RV failure were generated.

Results

KE-RVOT (median ± IQR) was higher in healthy controls (55.10 [39.70 to 76.43] mW/m) than in the Class II HF group (22.23 [15.41 to 35.58] mW/m, p < 0.005). KE-RVOT was further reduced in the Class IV HF group (9.02 [5.33 to 11.94] mW/m, p < 0.05). KE-RVOT was lower in the LVAD group (25.03 [9.88 to 38.98] mW/m) than the healthy controls group (p < 0.005). KE-RVOT had significant correlation with all echocardiographic parameters and no correlation with invasive hemodynamic parameters. RV failure occurred in 12 patients who underwent LVAD implantation in the Class IV HF group (1 patient was not eligible due to death immediately after the LVAD implantation). KE-RVOT cut-off value for prediction of RV failure was 9.15 mW/m (sensitivity: 0.67, specificity: 0.75, AUC: 0.66).

Conclusions

KE-RVOT, a novel noninvasive measure of RV function, strongly correlates with well-established echocardiographic markers of RV performance. KE-RVOT is the energy generated by RV wall contraction. Therefore, KE-RVOT may reflect global RV function. The utility of KE-RVOT in prediction of RV failure post LVAD implantation requires further study.
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases in inflammatory bowel diseases: to the heart of the issue
Authors: Gabbiadini Roberto , Dal Buono Arianna , Mastrorocco Elisabetta , Solitano Virginia , Repici Alessandro , Spinelli Antonino , Condorelli Gianluigi , Armuzzi Alessandro
Published: May 2023

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and stroke are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Along to the traditional risk factors for these diseases, chronic inflammation is known to be an important player in accelerating the process of atherosclerosis, which can result in an increased incidence of arterial thromboembolic events. As in other chronic inflammatory diseases, in the past few years, several studies suggested that subjects affected by inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) may also be at an incremented risk of atherosclerotic disease, especially during the periods of disease's flare. Therefore, IBD treatment may assume an important role for achieving both disease remission and the control of the atherosclerotic risk. In this article we aimed to perform a comprehensive review on evidence on the increased risk of arterial thromboembolic events in patients affected by IBD and discuss the potential role of IBD therapy in reducing this risk.
Pathophysiological effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the cardiovascular system and its clinical manifestations—a mini review
Authors: Yugar-Toledo Juan Carlos , Yugar Louise Buonalumi Tacito , Sedenho-Prado Luis Gustavo , Schreiber Roberto , Moreno Heitor
Published: May 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 may have a mild presentation, with few symptoms, or progress to a severe condition, characterized by generalized inflammation, systemic microvascular involvement, coagulopathy, and pulmonary and cardiovascular complications. Men present with more severe symptoms than women, especially men who are older and who present with comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and a history of atherosclerotic diseases. Owing to its association with endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, thrombosis, and microvascular obstruction, SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause lesions in several organs, including the myocardium and the coronary arterial bed, which can result in clinical manifestations involving the cardiovascular system. In this mini review, we summarize the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the cardiovascular system in both children and adults and characterize the various clinical manifestations associated with this disease.
Novel technique to reduce prolapsed device in atrial septal defect closure
Authors: Liao Li-Chin , Jan Sheng-Ling , Lin Ming-Chih , Lee Ho-Hsun , Fu Yun-Ching
Published: May 2023

Objective

Transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect (ASD) has become an alternative treatment to surgical repair. One of the challenges is the prolapse of the left atrial disc during the procedure. Many techniques have been developed to prevent the prolapse but not reduce it. In this study, we present a novel technique, termed push back technique, that help reduce the prolapsed device.

Methods

We enrolled 24 patients (8 males, 16 females) between May 2008 and January 2023 who underwent the push back technique during transcatheter closure of ASD in Taichung Veterans General Hospital. We recorded the hemodynamic data, success rate and complications including device embolization/migration, valvular regurgitation, pericardial effusion, and residual shunt.

Results

The median age was 6.3 years (1.2-70.5 years) and the median weight was 19.1 kg (7.8–90 kg). Fifteen (62.5%) patients had mild pulmonary hypertension. The median Qp/Qs was 2.54 (1.5–8.8). The median ASD stretched size was 21.2 mm (7.7–35.3 mm). The median device size was 22 mm (8–40 mm). The median fluoroscopy time was 14 min (5–23 min) and median procedure time was 47 min (25–78 min). The push back technique successfully reduced the prolapsed device in 21 (87.5%) patients. There was no complication in all patients.

Conclusion

We present a novel push back technique that can successfully reduce the prolapsed device in 87.5% (21/24) patients without complications. It is feasible, safe and effective.
Sinkhole risk mapping and early warning: the case of Camaiore (Italy)
Authors: Intrieri Emanuele , Confuorto Pierluigi , Bianchini Silvia , Rivolta Carlo , Leva Davide , Gregolon Samuele , Buchignani Vincenzo , Fanti Riccardo
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Sinkholes are ground collapses that can cause significant damage to infrastructure and buildings. Part of the risk represented by sinkholes is related to their abruptness and the difficulty in spotting in advance their exact location within a sinkhole-prone area. For this reason, urban planning informed by an accurate risk mapping and monitoring is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk.

Methods: In this study, we propose a two-folded procedure based on the examination of ground displacement data measured by a ground-based interferometric radar and on the generation of a sinkhole risk zonation map. We examined 11 years’ worth of ground displacement data measured by a ground-based interferometric radar to search for sinkhole precursors. The analysis was based on averaged displacement time series retrieved from high-coherence pixels scattered around Camaiore, Italy, a test site where a catastrophic sinkhole occurred in 1995. To generate a sinkhole risk map, we evaluated the susceptibility map as derived from a set of predisposing environmental parameters, the vulnerability derived from the thickness of the sedimentary cover that can be linked to the abruptness of the collapse, and the value of the elements at risk from the Italian Real Estate Market Observatory integrated with land cover information for the non-built up areas.

Results: The analysis of ground displacement data revealed that Camaiore had not experienced subsidence relatable to incoming sinkholes in the monitored period. However, few cm of vertical movements, which are well correlated with water table oscillations, have been measured and are expected to be of the same order of magnitude of sinkhole precursor deformations. This implies that a phenomenon of the size and velocity of the 1995 event could have likely been detected before its final collapse. The sinkhole risk map identified specific areas that should be closely monitored using in situ and remote sensing instrumentation.

Discussion: The sinkhole risk zonation map generated in this study can be used to inform urban planning and risk management strategies. The study also shows the potential of ground-based interferometric radar to detect sinkhole precursors and the importance of integrating different mitigation approaches. Overall, this study can provide insights for sinkhole risk assessment and management in sinkhole-prone areas.
Biological and pharmacological functions of the FGF19- and FGF21-coreceptor beta klotho
Authors: Aaldijk Alexandra S. , Verzijl Cristy R. C. , Jonker Johan W. , Struik Dicky
Published: May 2023

Beta klotho (KLB) is a fundamental component in fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) signaling as it serves as an obligatory coreceptor for the endocrine hormones fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21). Through the development of FGF19- and FGF21 mimetics, KLB has emerged as a promising drug target for treating various metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes (T2D), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and cardiovascular disease. While rodent studies have significantly increased our understanding of KLB function, current clinical trials that test the safety and efficacy of KLB-targeting drugs raise many new scientific questions about human KLB biology. Although most KLB-targeting drugs can modulate disease activity in humans, individual patient responses differ substantially. In addition, species-specific differences in KLB tissue distribution may explain why the glucose-lowering effects that were observed in preclinical studies are not fully replicated in clinical trials. Besides, the long-term efficacy of KLB-targeting drugs might be limited by various pathophysiological conditions known to reduce the expression of KLB. Moreover, FGF19/FGF21 administration in humans is also associated with gastrointestinal side effects, which are currently unexplained. A better understanding of human KLB biology could help to improve the efficacy and safety of existing or novel KLB/FGFR-targeting drugs. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of KLB biology, including genetic variants and their phenotypic associations, transcriptional regulation, protein structure, tissue distribution, subcellular localization, and function. In addition, we will highlight recent developments regarding the safety and efficacy of KLB-targeting drugs in clinical trials. These insights may direct the development and testing of existing and future KLB-targeting drugs.
Progress of hydrogen subsonic commercial aircraft
Authors: Boretti Alberto
Published: May 2023

Hydrogen may substitute traditional hydrocarbon fuels in propeller and jet aircraft. In the case of propeller propulsion, the use of combustion engines is preferable to fuel cells plus electric motors. The conversion efficiency from chemical to mechanical energy at the propeller is larger with fuel cells, but the propulsion system is also larger, in addition to heavier. Fuel cells have a better appeal for novel urban air mobility solutions. Hybridization of gas turbine engines is beneficial for propeller and jet propulsion. The hydrogen aircraft architecture is strongly modified to accept much larger fuel tanks, having hydrogen a larger mass-specific-energy, but a smaller volume-specific-energy, than jet fuels, stored onboard liquid or cold-cryo/compressed. Conformal tanks may reduce the total aircraft volume vs. spherical/cylindrical tanks, the same as the use of novel composite structures to improve strength and reduce the weight of tanks. With conventional designs, the maximum-take-off weight slightly reduces, but the operating-weight-empty largely increases with hydrogen, for an 8%–15% larger energy consumption per pax and nm compared to hydrocarbon fuels. Fuel cell propeller propulsion also suffers from the weight of batteries and fuel cell stack. Non-conventional designs such as Blended-Wing-Body and hybridization may help reduce energy consumption. Renewable-hydrogen-only aircraft necessitate further development of aircraft technology before full deployment by 2035, providing renewable hydrogen will be cheap and abundant at the time, and the airport infrastructure developed. The introduction of hypersonic renewable-hydrogen-only aircraft could also be possible, given the progress in hypersonic technologies and the synergy with subsonic commercial aviation.
Digital economy and private donation behavior: an empirical analysis based on the CFPS data
Authors: Li Xinrong , Shi Yupeng , Tang Tianyu
Published: May 2023

With the development of digital economy, especially the Mobile payment, the lifestyles such as the private donation, is undergoing accelerated changes in the last decades. Based on the China Family Panel Studies 2018 data, this paper systematically investigated the donation models, empowered by digital technology, have realized economy system refinement and intelligent development. Compared with residents who do not use the Internet, residents who use the Internet are about 10% more likely to donate, and the amount of donations will increase by about 56%. After considering the potential endogeneity problem, results still hold with Propensity Score Matching (PSM) and Instrumental Variable. The mechanism analysis shows that the searching cost and information asymmetry play an important role. The research of this paper has enlightening that the widespread use of digital technologies can effectively change the private donation behavior and penetrate energy consumption via dramatically decreasing searching cost.
TMIGD2 as a potential therapeutic target in glioma patients
Authors: Boulhen Chaimae , AIT SSI Saadia , Benthami Hamza , Razzouki Ibtissam , Lakhdar Abdelhakim , Karkouri Mehdi , Badou Abdallah
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Among all types of central nervous system cancers, glioma remains the most frequent primary brain tumor in adults. Despite significant advances in immunomodulatory therapies, notably immune checkpoint inhibitors, their effectiveness remains constrained due to glioma resistance. The discovery of TMIGD2 (Transmembrane and Immunoglobulin Domain Containing 2) as an immuno-stimulatory receptor, constitutively expressed on naive T cells and most natural killer (NK) cells, has emerged as an attractive immunotherapy target in a variety of cancers. The expression profile of TMIGD2 and its significance in the overall survival of glioma patients remains unknown.

Methods

In the present study, we first assessed TMIGD2 mRNA expression using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) glioma transcriptome dataset (667 patients), followed by validation with the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) cohort (693 patients). Secondly, we examined TMIGD2 protein staining in a series of 25 paraffin-embedded blocks from Moroccan glioma patients. The statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 8 software.

Results

TMIGD2 expression was found to be significantly higher in astrocytoma, IDH-1 mutations, low-grade, and young glioma patients. TMIGD2 was expressed on immune cells and, surprisingly, on tumor cells of glioma patients. Interestingly, our study demonstrated that TMIGD2 expression was negatively correlated with angiogenesis, hypoxia, G2/M checkpoint, and epithelial to mesenchymal transition signaling pathways. We also demonstrated that dendritic cells, monocytes, NK cells, gd T cells, and naive CD8 T cell infiltration correlates positively with TMIGD2 expression. On the other hand, Mantel-Cox analysis demonstrated that increased expression of TMIGD2 in human gliomas is associated with good overall survival. Cox multivariable analysis revealed that TMIGD2 is an independent predictor of a good prognosis in glioma patients.

Discussion

Taken together, our results highlight the tight implication of TMIGD2 in glioma progression and show its promising therapeutic potential as a stimulatory target for immunotherapy.
Shared diagnostic genes and potential mechanism between PCOS and recurrent implantation failure revealed by integrated transcriptomic analysis and machine learning
Authors: Chen Wenhui , Yang Qingling , Hu Linli , Wang Mengchen , Yang Ziyao , Zeng Xinxin , Sun Yingpu
Published: May 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine metabolic disorder that affects 5–10% of women of reproductive age. The endometrium of women with PCOS has altered immune cells resulting in chronic low-grade inflammation, which attribute to recurrent implantation failure (RIF). In this study, we obtained three PCOS and RIF datasets respectively from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. By analyzing differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and module genes using weighted gene co-expression networks (WGCNA), functional enrichment analysis, and three machine learning algorithms, we identified twelve diseases shared genes, and two diagnostic genes, including GLIPR1 and MAMLD1. PCOS and RIF validation datasets were assessed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and ideal area under the curve (AUC) values were obtained for each disease. Besides, we collected granulosa cells from healthy and PCOS infertile women, and endometrial tissues of healthy and RIF patients. RT-PCR was used to validate the reliability of GLIPR1 and MAMLD1. Furthermore, we performed gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and immune infiltration to explore the underlying mechanism of PCOS and RIF cooccurrence. Through the functional enrichment of twelve shared genes and two diagnostic genes, we found that both PCOS and RIF patients had disturbances in metabolites related to the TCA cycle, which eventually led to the massive activation of immune cells.
Effects of 3,3’,4,4’,5-pentachlorobiphenyl on in vitro oocyte maturation in dusky tripletooth goby, Tridentiger obscurus: an implication of estrogenic potency
Authors: Hwang In Joon , Baek Hea Ja
Published: May 2023

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that mimic estrogen in fish. Among the various PCBs, 3,3’,4,4’,5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB126), considered an estrogen antagonist, has been reported to elicit estrogenic activity in fish. We investigated the estrogenic potency of PCB126 in in vitro oocyte maturation in dusky tripletooth goby, Tridentiger obscurus. In this study, we quantified steroid metabolites following exposure to PCB126 and estradiol-17β (E2). Vitellogenic ovarian follicles were incubated, in vitro, with 10 and 100 ng/mL PCB126 or E2 with [3H]17α-hydroxyprogesterone as a precursor. Testosterone (T) and E2, were identified using thin-layer chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Both PCB126 and E2 increased T and E2 metabolite production. Further, vitellogenic ovarian follicles were exposed to PCB126 (1, 10 and 100 ng/mL) or E2 (0.01, 0.1 and 1 ng/mL) in vitro, and T and E2 from the incubation media were measured. PCB126 (100 ng/mL) inhibited T production and increased E2 production. Furthermore, we investigated the effects of PCB126 on the final oocyte maturation process. Germinal vesicle migration ovarian follicles were in vitro incubated with 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 ng/mL of PCB126 or E2. High doses of PCB126 (10 and 100 ng/mL) inhibited germinal vesicle breakdown. These results suggest that PCB126 has an estrogenic potency in oocyte maturation in T. obscurus.
A network analysis of psychological flexibility, coping, and stigma in dermatology patients
Authors: Vasiliou Vasilis S. , Russell Hellen , Cockayne Sarah , Coelho Gabriel Lins de Holanda , Thompson Andrew R.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Despite the negative effects of stigma in individuals with skin conditions, interventions to address its effects are rare. This might be in part due to a continued lack of understanding as to how individuals respond to stigma.

Methods

In this study, we employed a step-case analytic method, using traditional regression, moderation, and network analyses, to examine the role of psychological flexibility (PF) with stigmatized experiences, and stigma-related outcomes. We run a cross-sectional study (n = 105 individuals with various skin conditions) and analyzed stigma-related variables. We included variables examining perceived stigmatization (PSQ), anxiety (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-9), well-being (EQ5D5L), and variables stemming from the PF model (CompACT), presented as three coping with stigma responses, namely “open,” “aware,” and “active.”.

Results

Using network analysis, the most influential or central variables that contributed to stigma were generalized anxiety, perceived stigmatization, and valued actions. In relation to PF, being open to the experience of stigma (as opposed to avoidance), keeping a distance from stigmatized thoughts (as opposed to self-stigmatizing), and bringing attention to value-based committed actions (as opposed to passivity) were all found to contribute to less stigmatized experiences.

Discussion

The results indicate that two of the three skills of the PF model (“open” and “active”) may be important targets for interventions targeting stigma in people living with skin conditions.
Establishing a core dossier for multiple regulatory submissions: a case study in the Latin America region
Authors: Alvarez Alva Lucia , Maisonet Irma O. , Ruiz Omar , Lumsden Rebecca S. , Ferreira Ana Paula Evangelista , Avila Flores Esther M.
Published: May 2023

The Latin America region comprises several countries that do not follow harmonized regulatory requirements for drug product (DP) marketing authorization applications (MAA), resulting in customized registration dossiers for each country. Here, we established a core dossier for multiple MAA in the Latin America region by examining the similarities between regulatory requirements and reconciling their potential discrepancies through discussions among all national regulatory representatives. The core dossier was used in the submission of a new small molecule, NME1, to nine markets. Assessment of the process included the time to submission; the timing, number, and complexity of questions received; and timing of final national regulatory agencies (NRA) evaluation decisions. The core dossier resulted in an accelerated submission timeline for most markets and earlier receipt of NRA queries from some markets, compared with projections. One round of queries of a low or medium complexity was received from all agencies. The receipt of final NRA evaluation decisions was also accelerated in most markets, compared with the best-case approval timeframes. The core dossier approach was also evaluated against the standard submission of a similar small molecule, NME2. In contrast to the core dossier submission of NME1, a second round of questions, and high-complexity questions were received from two markets for NME2. In conclusion, a core dossier has the potential to simplify the regulatory process for both reviewers and applicants in regions that do not share harmonized regulatory requirements, with a consequential acceleration of DP approvals.
Functional imaging for assessing regional lung ventilation in preclinical and clinical research
Authors: Karmali Dipan , Sowho Mudiaga , Bose Sonali , Pearce Jackson , Tejwani Vickram , Diamant Zuzana , Yarlagadda Keerthi , Ponce Erick , Eikelis Nina , Otvos Tamas , Khan Akram , Lester Michael , Fouras Andreas , Kirkness Jason , Siddharthan Trishul
Published: May 2023

Dynamic heterogeneity in lung ventilation is an important measure of pulmonary function and may be characteristic of early pulmonary disease. While standard indices like spirometry, body plethysmography, and blood gases have been utilized to assess lung function, they do not provide adequate information on regional ventilatory distribution nor function assessments of ventilation during the respiratory cycle. Emerging technologies such as xenon CT, volumetric CT, functional MRI and X-ray velocimetry can assess regional ventilation using non-invasive radiographic methods that may complement current methods of assessing lung function. As a supplement to current modalities of pulmonary function assessment, functional lung imaging has the potential to identify respiratory disease phenotypes with distinct natural histories. Moreover, these novel technologies may offer an optimal strategy to evaluate the effectiveness of novel therapies and therapies targeting localized small airways disease in preclinical and clinical research. In this review, we aim to discuss the features of functional lung imaging, as well as its potential application and limitations to adoption in research.
Risk factors and outcomes of inpatients with carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa bloodstream infections in China: a 9-year trend and multicenter cohort study
Authors: Yuan Qing , Guo Lei , Li Bin , Zhang Sheng , Feng Haiting , Zhang Yan , Yu Meihong , Hu Hangbin , Chen Hongchao , Yang Qing , Qu Tingting
Published: May 2023

Objective

Bacteremia caused by carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) has high mortality, threatening the healthcare quality worldwide. Analysis is required to update the epidemiological data of CRPA bloodstream infections (BSI) and evaluate the prevalent strains in China. Moreover, it is necessary to clarify the risk factors associated with the development and mortality of CRPA bacteremia.

Methods

This is a 9-year multicenter retrospective study, enrolling 137 patients with CRPA BSI and 137 carbapenem-susceptible P. aeruginosa (CSPA) BSI during January 2012 and December 2020. Antimicrobials susceptibility between the two groups were compared. Risk factors of CRPA BSI were identified by binary logistic regression for development and cox regression for mortality. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to compare time to mortality. CRPA and difficult-to-treat resistant P. aeruginosa (DTRPA) detection rate was analyzed year-by-year in ZYH.

Results

A total of 7,384 P. aeruginosa clinical samples were cultured in ZYH during 9  years, and notable increase of CRPA and DTRPA detection rate in P. aeruginosa BSI was identified (from 17 to 60%; from 2.1 to 25%). Multivariate analysis revealed that prior ICU hospitalization, immunosuppressive therapy and exposure to carbapenems were independent risk factors for development of CRPA BSI. The 30-day crude mortality of 137 CRPA BSI was 39%. A total of 46 DTRPA were identified, and the 30-day mortality for patients infected by DTRPA was 50%. The 30-day crude mortality of CRPA BSI was independently associated with multiple organ failure and higher Pitt bacteremia score, whereas receipt appropriate therapy improved prognosis.

Conclusion

A significant increase in the detection rate of CRPA and DTRPA in P. aeruginosa BSI was identified. Strict policies for carbapenems usage, cautious decisions regarding the usage of immunosuppressive agent and standard care for patients with prior ICU hospitalization are necessary for CRPA BSI management.
Erythromycin resistance of clinical Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli in Shanghai, China
Authors: Gao Fen , Tu Lihong , Chen Mingliang , Chen Hongyou , Zhang Xi , Zhuang Yuan , Luo Jiayuan , Chen Min
Published: May 2023

Campylobacter species are zoonotic pathogens, as well as the prevalent cause of foodborne bacterial gastroenteritis. The spread of antimicrobial-resistant strains poses a serious threat to global public health and attracts attention worldwide, but information about clinical Campylobacter is relatively limited compared to isolates from food and animals. The current study illustrated the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli isolates collected from a consecutive surveillance program between 2012 and 2019 in Shanghai, China, using antimicrobial susceptibility testing and whole-genome sequencing. Among the 891 Campylobacter strains (761 C. jejuni and 130 C. coli) isolates collected, high portions above 90% of resistance to ciprofloxacin, nalidixic acid, and tetracycline were observed for both C. jejuni and C. coli. The most common MDR profiles represented by C. jejuni and C. coli were combination of ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, florfenicol and nalidixic acid (5.39%), and azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, gentamicin, tetracycline, clindamycin, nalidixic acid (28.46%), respectively. The erythromycin resistance of C. coli (59.23%) is higher than C. jejuni (2.50%). A total of 76 erythromycin resistant isolates (16 C. jejuni and 60 C. coli) were sequenced using Illumina platform for determining the genotypes, antimicrobial resistance patterns and phylogeny analysis. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis showed a high genetic diversity with 47 sequence types (STs), including 4 novel alleles and 12 new STs. The most abundant clonal complexes (CCs) were CC-403 (31.25%) and CC-828 (88.33%) for C. jejuni and C. coli, respectively. Among the 76 erythromycin-resistant isolates, mutation A2075G in 23S rRNA and erm(B) gene were detected in 53.95 and 39.47%, respectively. The erm(B) gene was identified exclusively in 30 C. coli isolates. All these erm(B) positive isolates were multi-drug resistant. Furthermore, comparison of the erm(B)-carrying isolates of multiple sources worldwide demonstrated the possibility of zoonotic transmission of erm(B) in Campylobacter. These findings highlight the importance of continuous surveillance of erythromycin resistance dissemination in Campylobacter which may compromise the effectiveness of antimicrobial therapy.