bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impaired arginine-induced insulin secretion in MODY2 patient with UGGT1R1526C variant
Authors: Cho Jaeyong , Horikawa Yukio , Yonamine Masato , Tsugawa Yoji , Enya Mayumi , Masuzaki Hiroaki , Yabe Daisuke , Imai Takeshi
Published: March 2022

Arginine releases proinsulin from binding to UGGT1 in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). PSIPRED analysis showed that the arginine/proinsulin binding domain (A/PBD) in the C-terminal region of UGGT1 forms a disordered region, which is flexible and outside of the main protein structure. Arginine and proinsulin may easily access UGGT1. Using the SNP library, two variants, Q1518* and R1526C, were identified in this region. Q1518* variant is a deficient form of A/PBD and ER-retention signal (ERRS). Q1518* mutated UGGT1 protein in cell analysis reveals Q1518* protein is mainly secreted protein, because of lack of ERRS. We found another UGGT1 variant, R1526C, among 489 Japanese maturity-onset diabetes of young (MODY) patients. In fact, a MODY2 (GCKWT/G261R) patient with the UGGT1WT/R1526C variant showed less arginine-induced insulin secretion than a MODY2 father with UGGT1WT/WT. However, they have a similar response of glucose intolerance. At the molecular level, less interaction of proinsulin with UGGT1 was observed in both human UGGT1R1526C and mouse UGGT1L1518C with/without arginine. Collectively, the interaction of proinsulin with UGGT1 likely has a significant impact on the regulation of proinsulin processing and arginine-induced secretion in β-cells.
Icariin Suppresses Activated Macrophages-Mediated Inflammatory Response Inhibition of mTOR/S6K1 and NF-κB Signaling
Authors: YANG Mingshi , SUN Ziyi , WANG Junwen , GAO Min
Published: March 2022

Background: This study aimed to explore icariin on macrophage polarization and the underlying molecular mechanism.Methods: Macrophages were polarized to M1/M2 macrophages following stimulation with LPS,IFN-γ and IL-4.Meanwhile,they were intervened by icariin.ELISA was performed to detect TNF-α and IL-10 secretion to observe the effect of icariin on macrophages polarization at the protein level.RT-PCR was performed to detect mRNA expression of TNF-α、IL-6、iNOS、Arg1 and CD206 to observe the effect of icariin on macrophages polarization at the mRNA level.Next, flow cytometry were used to observe the effect of icariin on the proportions of polarized macrophages (M1, M2).Western blot was performed to examine the phosphorylation of mTOR,S6K1,NF-κB p65,IKKβ and IκBα to observe the effect of icariin on mTOR/S6K1 and NF-κB signaling pathway of M1 macrophages.Results:Icariin can inhibit the polarization of M1 macrophages and promote M2 polarization of macrophages,and inhibit the expression of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α),interleukin6 (IL-6) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) to reduce the inflammatory response,and promote the expression of interleukin10 (IL-10),mannose receptor C type 1 (CD206) and arginase 1 (Arg1) to anti-inflammatory and promote tissue repair.Icariin can inhibit the polarization of M1 macrophages and promote M2 polarization of macrophages.Additionally,western blot and immunofluorescence staining (IF) results found that it can inhibit expression of p-mTOR,p-S6K1,p-NF-κB p65,p-IKKβ and p-IκBα on M1 macrophages. Conclusions:Our results indicate that icariin inhibited M1 macrophage activation and enhanced M2 macrophage activation,and affect the mTOR/S6K1 and NF-κB signaling pathway of M1 macrophages.
Enhanced effectiveness of silver diamine fluoride application with light curing on natural dentin carious lesions: an in-vitro study
Authors: Pornprasertsuk-Damrongsri Suchaya , Karnowakul Juthamas , Punyanirun Kulnipa , Jirakran Ketsupar , Thanyasrisung Panida , Techatharatip Oranuch , Trairatvorakul Chutima
Published: March 2022

Background: Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is widely accepted as a dentinal caries arresting agent because of its effectiveness, easy handling, and short working time. When dealing with uncooperative patients, a reduced working time is desired. As SDF has been known to interact with light, the effects of light curing (LC) on SDF have not been investigated. This study aimed to compare mean mineral density difference and surface morphology between 10-and 60-second(s) SDF-applied dentin carious lesions and similarly SDF-treated teeth with additional 20s LC. Methods: Forty primary molar blocks with natural dentin carious lesions were measured for baseline lesion depth and mineral density at baseline using Image-Pro Plus software. Samples were distributed into 4 groups; 38% SDF applied for 1) 10s (10SDF), 2) 60s (60SDF), 3) 10s+LC (10SDF+LC), and 4) 60s+LC (60SDF+LC), then underwent a 7-day bacterial pH-cycling. Dentin carious lesions’ mean mineral density difference was re-evaluated by digital subtraction radiographic analysis. Surface morphology and elemental profile were assessed by scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The mean mineral density difference of the dentin lesions was analyzed using two-way ANOVA, generalized linear models analysis.Results: Light curing was the only factor affecting the mean mineral density difference (p=0.007). Mean mineral density differences in 10SDF+LC and 60SDF+LC groups were significantly higher than those without light curing (p=0.041 and 0.041, respectively). The 60SDF+LC group showed a significantly higher mean mineral density difference than the 10SDF group (p=0.010), while the 10SDF+LC group was not different from the 60SDF group (p=1.00). Scanning electron microscopy showed denser mineral content layers, which likely were silver and chloride, in 10SDF+LC and 60SDF+LC groups than 10SDF and 60SDF groups, respectively.Conclusion: Shortened application time with light curing enhanced SDF remineralization similarly to a conventional method. This could be valuable for managing dentin caries in young or uncooperative children and special-needs patients by reducing the SDF application time by 50% of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommendation while maintaining an adequate SDF remineralization effectiveness.
ROS interrupts blood-brain barrier integrity by inhibiting TET2-dependent ZO-1 expression in vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Wang Lan , Mao Bei , Fan Keyang , Sun Renqiang , Zhang Jialong , Liang Huazheng , Liu Ying
Published: March 2022

Epigenetic regulation plays an important role in both physiological and pathological conditions. Among them, the ten-eleven translocation (TET) methyl cytosine dioxygenase is key to oxidize 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), subsequent 5-formylcytosine (5fC), 5-carboxylcytosine (5caC), and eventually to unmodified cytosine. However, few studies have investigated the role of Tet2 in regulating expression of tight junction proteins of the blood brain barrier. In the present study, we found that the level of 5hmC decreased in endothelial cells of aging brains. It was even weaker in endothelial cells of 8-week and 12-month old Tet2 knockout (KO) mice. Similar phenomenon was observed in zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) expression by endothelial cells. Simultaneously, it was found there was an increased number of microglia in the Tet2 KO mouse. In vascular endothelial cell experiments, we found that H2O2 significantly decreased expression of 5hmC and ZO-1. Tet2 knock-down using siRNA significantly decreased the level of ZO-1 in endothelial cells. MeChip-PCR showed that the level of 5hmC in the ZO-1 promoter region was significantly decreased by H2O2, which was significantly rescued by N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). These findings were also observed in human brains where decreased levels of 5hmC in brain endothelial cells were accompanied by reduced levels of ZO-1. These findings indicate that DNA methylation and demethylation is essential in regulating the integrity of blood brain barrier. This might be a potential target for neuroprotection during aging and in diverse neurological conditions.
Ophthalmıc Sıtuatıon of The Patıents With Chronıc Renal Faılure Undergoıng Haemodıalysıs
Authors: Ulusoy Mahmut Oğuz , Küçüködük Ali , Atakan Mehmet , Kal Ali
Published: March 2022

Haemodialysis(HD) is the unique treatment modality for end stage chronic renal failure (ESCRF) patients. In these patients , refractive changes , dry eye, increased tear osmolarity, conjunctival calcium deposits, band keratopathy, corneal endothelium changes, lenticular opacity, macular edema, ischemic optic neuropathy, elevated intraocular pressure, retinal detachment, and retinal hemorrhage can be seen due to haemodialysis or ESCRF. We aimed to assess the ophthalmological situation of the patients with ESCRF undergoing haemodailysis Methods:A total of 504 eyes of 252 patients with ESCRF undergoing haemodialysis were recruited in this study. All patients were asked about demographic factors, renal failure and haemodialysis information.All participants were underwent total ophthalmologic examinationResults:A hundred and twenty patients were female, the average age was 65.21+ 13.15 years (range 21-87) and average duration of haemodailysis was 4.95+4.25 years (2-20). The most reasons of the chronic renal failure is hypertension 119/252 (47.2%) eyes were pseudophacic and 170 (33.7%) eyes have cataract in different grades. 120 of 504 (23.8%)eyes have proliferative diabetic retinopathy (DRP) , 28 of 504 (5.5%) have non-proliferative DRP , 20 of 504 (3.9%) have choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) , 56 of 504 (11.1%) have geographic atrophy, 36/504(7.1 %) have drusen , and 60/504 (11.9%) have epiretinale membrane. Twenty (7.8%)patients have glaucoma and 94 (37.1%) patients have dry eye disease .Conclusion:The most common vision threatening situation in ESCRF patients was cataract. 76.5% of the eyes have still cataract or had cataract surgery. Most common ocular surface problem was dry eye disease (37.1%).In addition ,proliferative DRP rate was more than in all diabetic population, because they are probably at last stages of the organs affected by diabetes mellitus.
Atomic-Scale Understanding Of The Na And Cl Remotion From Seawater Promoted By Mo1.33C(OH)2-Mxene
Authors: Guerrero-Sanchez J. , Muñoz-Pizza Dalia M. , Moreno-Armenta Ma Guadalupe , Takeuchi Noboru
Published: March 2022

Drinking water scarcity in arid and semi-arid regions is a reality that may turn into a global healthcare problem in the next few years. The scientific community is always looking for new materials to achieve effective sea and brackish water desalination to reduce water scarcity. Commonly, theoretical and experimental methods make a synergy to better understand and explain the chemical and physical processes in water desalination electrodes. In this way, experimental evidence pointed to Mo1.33CTz MXene as an efficient ion intercalation material, in which both Na cations and Cl anions are removed. However, the atomic-scale understanding of the physico-chemical processes due to the cation and anion interaction with the MXene is still unknown. We report the Na cation and Cl anion interaction with an OH functionalized Mo1.33C monolayer through a comprehensive first-principles density functional theory assessment. Results demonstrate that Na atoms attach to Oxygen, whereas Cl atoms bond through hydrogen bonds to the functional groups in the Mxene, these bonds have two energy contributions: electrostatic and charge transfer, which increases its adsorption energy. Electrostatic potential isosurface calculations evidenced reactive sites. Oxygen atoms have an affinity for the electropositive Na atoms, whereas hydrogen atoms -of the hydroxyl groups- interact with the electronegative Cl atoms. Bader charge analysis and non-covalent interaction isosurfaces help clarifying the way cations and anions attach to the MXene layer. Our findings explain why OH-functionalized Mo1.33C can efficiently remove both anions and cations based on their affinities with the functional groups present in the MXene.
Chronic Morphine Exposure distorts Gut-Brain Interrelationships in SHIV Infected Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Olwenyi Omalla A. , Johnson Samuel D. , Bidokhti Mehdi , Thakur Vandana , Pandey Kabita , Thurman Michellie , Acharya Arpan , Uppada Srijayaprakash , Callen Shannon , Giavedoni Luis , Ranga Udaykumar , Buch Shilpa J. , Byrareddy Siddappa N.
Published: March 2022

Background Commonly used opioids, such as morphine have been implicated in augmented SIV/HIV persistence within the Central Nervous System (CNS). However, the extent of myeloid cell polarization and viral persistence in different brain regions with diverse environmental niches remains unclear. Additionally, the additive effects of morphine on SIV/HIV dysregulation of gut-brain crosstalk remain underexplored. Therefore, studies focused on understanding how drugs of abuse such as morphine affect immune dynamics, viral persistence and gut brain interrelationships are warranted. MethodsFor a total of 9 weeks, rhesus macaques were ramped-up, and a single daily injection of either morphine (n=4) or saline (n=4) administered. This was later followed with infection with SHIVAD8EO variants. At necropsy, mononuclear cells were isolated from diverse brain (frontal lobe, cerebellum, medulla, putamen, hippocampus (HIP) and subventricular zone (SVZ)) and gut (lamina propria (LP) and muscularis (MUSC) of ascending colon, duodenum, and ileum) regions. Multiparametric flow cytometry was used to were profile for myeloid cell polarity/ activation and results corroborated with indirect immunofluorescence assays. SHIV DNA levels were measured with aid of the digital droplet PCR assay. Luminex assays was used to evaluate soluble plasma/ CSF biomarker levels. Finally, changes in the fecal microbiome were evaluated using the Illumina NovaSeq platform. ResultsFlow Cytometry-based semi-supervised analysis revealed that morphine exposure led to exacerbated M1(CD14/ CD16)/ M2 (CD163/ CD206) polarization in activated microglia that spanned across diverse brain regions. This was accompanied by elevated SHIV DNA within the sites of neurogenesis - hippocampus (HIP) and subventricular zone (SVZ). HIP/SVZ CD16+ activated microglia positively correlated with SHIV DNA levels in the brain (r = 0.548, p = 0.042). Simultaneously, morphine dependence depleted butyrate-producing bacteria, including Ruminococcus (p = 0.05), Lachnospira (p = 0.068) genera and Roseburia_sp._831b (p = 0.068). Finally, morphine also altered the regulation of CNS inflammation by reducing the levels of IL1 Receptor antagonist (IL1Ra). ConclusionsThese findings are suggestive that morphine can promote CNS inflammation by altering receptor modulation, increasing myeloid brain activation, distorting gut-brain crosstalk, and causing selective enhancement of SHIV persistence in sites of neurogenesis.
The effect of probiotics and phototherapy combined application in comparison with phototherapy alone on bilirubin reduction in term neonates: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jenabi Ensiyeh , Eghbalian Fatemeh , Sabzehei Mohamad Kazem , Reisi Roya , Talesh Soroush Taheri
Published: March 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of probiotics and phototherapy combined application in comparison with phototherapy alone on bilirubin reduction in term neonates hospitalized in Iran.Methods: This clinical trial study included 150 term neonates diagnosed with neonatal jaundice. Patients were equally assigned to two groups of phototherapy with oral probiotics (PediLact drop, 10 drops daily) and phototherapy alone through a simple random sampling method. Serum Bilirubin Levels (SBL) at the time of intervention, 24, 48, and 72 hours later, duration of phototherapy, duration of hospitalization, and the need for blood transfusion were compared in the two groups.Results: The mean serum bilirubin level (SBL) on the first day of hospitalization was 15.6±1.7 mg/dl in the combinatory therapy group, and it was 15.8±1.6 mg/dl in the Monotherapy group (P=0.584). The mean serum level (SBL) on the second day in the combinatory therapy group was 11.2±2.2, and in the other group it was 12.4±2.1, and on the third day, they were 7.2±0.9 and 7.8±0.7, respectively, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant. The mean hospital stay time in the combinatory therapy group was 2.4±0.5, and in the phototherapy group, it was 2.8±0.6 days (P = 0.001). The duration of phototherapy in the combinatory therapy group was 26.2±9.9 days, and in the phototherapy group, it was 31.4±10.3 hours (P = 0.001).Conclusions: The findings show that the addition of oral probiotics to phototherapy in neonatal jaundice treatment is associated with phototherapy duration reduction and hospital stay time.
The small-size laser shock clinch-bonded hybrid joining of Al foils
Authors: Wang Yiqun , Lu Guoxin , Ji Zhong , Liu Ren , Zheng Chao
Published: March 2022

In this paper, an original process that making small-sized clinch-bonded hybrid joints by laser shock forming is put forward and developed, two metal foils, one adhesive layer and one perforated stainless steel sheet are joined together under continuous laser shocks. Finite element models are established to simulate the forming process and the shearing behavior of the hybrid joints. The effect of the adhesive on the manufacturing process is emphatically discussed. The shearing and peeling tests of the hybrid joints are compared with that of single clinched and pure bonded joints. The failure mode of the hybrid joint under loading is analyzed along with numerical simulation taking a shearing test for instance. The experimental results show that the cured adhesive with thin thickness is beneficial to the subsequent clinching process; the application of adhesive can greatly improve the mechanical strength of the single mechanical clinched joints; the failure process of the hybrid joints is that the adhesive fails first and then the interlock. The laser shock forming has enabled the precision manufacturing of small-sized clinch-bonded hybrid joints, which can play a significant role in electronic component processing and other special working conditions.
Pre-existence of Diabetes Mellitus Improves Cerebral Perfusion During Middle Cerebral Artery Severe Stenosis or Chronic Occlusion
Authors: Zhang Jiahui , Li Zheng , Zhang Mei-juan , Tian Chuan-shuai , LUO Yun
Published: March 2022

Background and Purpose—Collateral flow compensation followed by cerebrovascular stenosis is closely correlated to acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. Many evidences indicated that diabetes mellitus (DM) probably had impact on it, but the exact extent was unclear. Aim of this study is to investigate the impact of DM on collateral flow of patients with severe stenosis or occlusion of middle cerebral artery (MCA). Methods—We retrospectively identified patients from our registry of patients who had severe stenosis or occlusion in the MCA diagnosed by digital substraction angiography (DSA), besides it, collateral flow compensation was also assessed by magnetic resonance perfusion (MRP). Relative parameters of perfusion (MTT, TTP, CBF, CBV) in the different areas including Am, Lm, Pm, Bm were compared between diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Based on this background, multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the independent correlation between DM and above MRP values with obvious difference, so did the correlation between they and HbA1c or fasting blood glucose (FBG) through Spearman correlation coefficient. Results—105 patients were included in this study, with 73 patients belong to non-diabetes mellitus (NDM) group and 32 patients belong to DM group. Older age, higher fibrinogen (FIB) and fasting blood glucose (FBG), higher percent of hypertension were seen in the DM group compared to the NDM group. Higher ipsilateral/contralateral ratio of CBF and CBV in Lm area was observed in DM group in contrast with NDM group, and lower ipsilateral/contralateral ratio of MTT was observed in DM group in Am and Lm areas, so did TTP in Lm and Pm areas. Independent correlation was also maintained between DM and Lm-CBF, Lm-CBV, Lm-MTT, Lm-TTP, Am-MTT, Pm-TTP through multivariable logistic regression. Both FBG and HbA1c were correlated to part of above parameters of ipsilateral/contralateral ratio, while the impact of FBG was more prominent. Conclusions—DM can partly improve cerebral hypoperfusion due to severe stenosis or occlusive in the MCA, which is probably originated from microvascular remodeling induced by pre-existence of DM.
Screening and in Vitro Validation of Mushroom Derived Compounds Against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Baig Mohammad Hassan , Turk Ayman , Khan Mohd Imran , Dong Jae-June , Lee Dae Hee , Kim Young Guk , Lee Mi Kyeong , Cho Jae-Yong
Published: March 2022

It’s been more than 2 years since the first outbreak of COVID-19, and still the pandemic is devastating the world and is standing as significant threat to the worldwide medical settings. The reports of new variants, absence of globally approved therapeutics are the major reasons responsible for the continuously increasing number of cases and mortalities. The main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2 is a well reported and a key therapeutic target for designing drugs to treat COVID-19. The medicinal properties of mushrooms and its derived natural compounds are well established. Here in this study, we have performed the virtual screening of mushroom-derived compounds against the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. Cordycepin was found to be the most active compound against Mpro. The compound was further isolated from C. militaris and in vitro assay was performed to confirm its antivirals potential against SARS-CoV-2. Our findings show cordycepin to be a promising candidate against COVID-19.
Plasma Fatty Acids, Not Dietary Fatty Acids, Associated with Obesity in Four Ethnic Minority Groups Unique to Southwest China: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Huang Juan , Zhang Teng , Li Yanru , Zhong Dubo , Wang Songmei , Xu Fang , Zhang Xuehui , Feng Yuemei , Yin Jianzhong
Published: March 2022

Background: Dietary fatty acids (DFAs) and plasma fatty acids (PFAs) are linked with obesity. However, whether this association exists amongst ethnic minorities remains lacking. The present case-control study was designed to investigate the correlation between DFAs, PFAs and obesity in 4 ethnic minority groups to Southwest China.Method: A total of 166 obese people, and 166 normal-BMI subjects were recruited from 4 different ethnic minority groups. The subjects were also matched based on their age-, sex-, and ethnicity. DFAs were obtained through food frequency questionnaires. PFAs were assayed by GC/MS method. Binary and multiple regression analyses were preformed to evaluate the correlation among DFAs, PFAs and obesity. Canonical correlation analysis (CCA) was conducted to assess the relationship between DFAs and PFAs. Results: FAs were found to be highest in the Naxi people and lowest in the Hani people. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that plasma C16:0 (OR = 1.310; 95% CI, 1.028 - 1.669; P < 0.05) in the Hani people, plasma C18:0 (OR = 0.499; 95% CI, 0.343 - 0.727; P < 0.05) in the Naxi people, plasma C20:3 n-6 (OR = 6.250; 95% CI, 1.224 - 31.927; P < 0.05) in the Wa people were seen to be independent predictive factors for obesity. CCA showed that DFAs were positively correlated with PFAs in the Naxi (r: 0.676; P < 0.05) and Bulang people (r: 0.897; P < 0.05), but there was no correlation in the Hani and Wa people. Conclusion: In this study, PFAs but not DFAs were independently associated with obesity, and different among the 4 ethnic minorities.
Association of Environment and Occupations Factors With Semen Quality in Male Partners of Couples Trying to Conceive
Authors: Mai Hanran , Ke Junyi , Li Miaomiao , He Menghua , Qu Yanxia , Jiang Fan , Cai Simian , Xu Yufen , Fu Lanyan , Pi Lei , Zhou Huazhong , Che Di , Gu Xiaoqiong , Zuo Liandong
Published: March 2022

Background: Sperm quality can be easily influenced by environment and occupations factors. Yet, due to complexity and diversity of factors we are facing in everyday life, there are difficulties in collecting patients’ information in the outpatient department, which factors might influence sperm quality then lengthen TTP remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to discover potential semen quality related environment as well as occupation factors, and assist clinical decision making.Methods: A total of 465 men were recruited from the pre-pregnancy consultation clinic in Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center between June 2020 to July 2021, which were aged 31-43 years, and we have collected their semen analysis results. Environment and occupation information was collected by questionnaires. Logistic regression was applied to evaluate the association of semen quality with environment and occupation factors.Result: We found that living close to (<2km) high voltage line (283.4×106/ml vs 219.8×106/ml, P=0.030) and large substation (309.1×106/ml vs 222.4×106/ml, P=0.015) will influence sperm count. Experienced decoration in the past 6 months was also a significant factor to sperm count (194.2×106/ml vs 261.0×106/ml, P=0.025). Living close to (<2km) chemical plant will affect semen PH (7.5 vs 7.2, P=0.001). Domicile close to (<2km) a power distribution room will affect progressive sperm motility (37.2% vs 33.3%, P=0.030). Using computers will affect both progressive motility sperm (35.9% vs 37.6% vs 35.9% vs 28.6%, P=0.047) and sperm total motility (58.5% vs 56.5% vs 56.0% vs 41.0%, P=0.009).Conclusion: Our result suggested that some of the environment and occupation factors: computer using, living and working surroundings (voltage line, substation and chemical plants, transformer room), and housing decoration may association with low semen quality. But no association we found of TTP with environment and occupation factors.
WITHDRAWN: Exposure to Difenoconazole Induces Reproductive Toxicity of Zebrafish by Interfering Reproductive Behavior
Authors: Liu Jia , Zhou Xiaoming , Liu Wei , Zhang Hao
Published: March 2022

Difenoconazole (DCZ) is a widely used triazole fungicide and negatively affects aquatic organisms and human health. However, data on the reproductive toxicity of DCZ are lacking. In this study, we used zebrafish (from 2–4 h postfertilization (hpf) to adulthood) as a model to evaluate whether DCZ at environmentally relevant concentrations (0.1, 1.0, and 10.0 µg/L) induce reproductive toxicity. Following exposure to DCZ, egg production and fertilization rate were reduced at 1.0 and 10.0 µg/L. A significant decrease in the proportion of mature gametes (late vitellogenic oocytes and spermatozoa) was also observed at 10.0 µg/L. The concentrations of 17β-Estradiol (E2), testosterone (T), and vitellogenin (VTG) were disrupted in females and males at 1.0 and 10.0 µg/L. Exposure to 10.0 µg/L DCZ significantly inhibited the contact time between female fish and male fish, and it was mainly achieved by affecting male fish. The transcription of genes involved in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad-liver (HPGL) axis was significantly changed after treatment with DCZ. Overall, these data showed that the endocrine disrupting effect of DCZ on the zebrafish HPGL axis inhibited the formation of gametes and disrupted reproductive behavior, thereby reducing fertility.
Priority Setting in Planning for Recruitment and Allocation of Healthcare Workers at National and District Level in Zambia
Authors: Siluka Mukolima , Silumbwe Adam , Mweemba Oliver
Published: March 2022

Background
Priority setting has widely been used in healthcare systems to justify allocation of limited resources such as health services against a huge demand. Zambia, a low-income country is faced with a critical shortage of health workers whose distribution is skewed towards urban areas. This affects effective health service delivery and creates a gap in skills mix. This study therefore sought to explore the priority setting process and its fairness in the planning for recruitment and distribution of health workers in Zambia.
Methods
This was a qualitative study that collected data using two methods; a document review of national health documents, and interviews (n = 20) with district level officers who took part in human resource meetings and decisions. The accountability for reasonableness (AFR) framework was also used to explore fairness and transparency in the processes. Data was analyzed thematically.
Results
The district level management felt they had limited participation in decision making regarding recruitment and distribution of human resources for health. They felt excluded because most decisions for human resources for health were made at national level. The national level used district vacancies to recruit workers who would later be transferred to other places which perpetuated shortages in the rural districts. Decentralization would help districts have more context-based decisions relating to the human resource challenges they face. Meeting the A4R framework conditions of fairness, transparency and accountability in priority setting proved a challenge as there were mixed feelings from participants in each condition. As a result, fairness and transparency could not be easily determined. The document review highlighted that despite the various strategies put in place to improve transparency, accountability, there continues to be a misalignment between national and district HRH recruitment and distribution.
Conclusion
Human resource for health challenges call for more strategies to improve financing for workers, strengthen private sector partnerships and exercise a decentralized approach in order for districts to make human resource decisions that are more relevant to the districts themselves. This will help improve the priority setting process as well as mitigate challenges of mal-distribution.
Resveratrol ameliorates bisphenol A-induced testicular toxicity in adult male rats: A stereological and functional study
Authors: Bordbar Hossein , Yahyavi Seyedeh-Saeedeh , Noorafshan Ali , Aliabadi Elham , Naseh Maryam
Published: March 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most widely used synthetic chemicals worldwide. BPA as an endocrine disruptor affects the reproductive systems through estrogenic and antiandrogenic proprieties. Resveratrol (RES) as a natural polyphenol and potent antioxidant exhibits the protective effects against reproductive toxicity by inhibition of oxidative stress. 48 male rats divided into eight groups (n = 6), including control (CON), Olive oil (0.5 ml/ day), Carboxy methylcellulose (CMC) (1 ml of 10 g/l), RES (100mg/kg/day), low dose of BPA (25 mg/kg/day), high dose of BPA (50 mg/kg/day), low dose of BPA + RES, and high dose of BPA + RES. All treatment were done orally by gavages per day for 56 days. At the end of the 8th week, blood samples were collected for hormone assays. Then, the sperm parameters were analyzed, and the left testis was removed for stereological study. We showed a significant decrease in sperm parameters in the low and high doses of BPA groups compared to control group (P < 0.05). The volume of testicular components as well as the diameter and length of seminiferous tubules significantly reduced (11–64%), and the total number of the testicular cell types decreased (34–67%) on average in the low and high doses of BPA groups. Moreover, serum FSH, LH, and testosterone hormones concentration showed a significant reduction in both doses of BPA groups (P < 0.01). Nonetheless, treatment with RES could ameliorate all the above-mentioned changes in the low and high doses of BPA groups (P < 0.05). RES could prevent BPA-induced testicular structural changes and sperm quality via improving gonadotropin hormones and testosterone levels.
Radiogenomic Analysis of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Patients With Glioblastoma
Authors: Chen Baoshi , zheng fei , Zhang Lingling , Shen Huicong , Chen Hongyan , Zang Yuying , Li Yiming , Chen Xuzhu
Published: March 2022

Purpose Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is very important for glioblastoma (GBM) angiogenesis. This study is to predict VEGF expression in cerebral GBM by radiomic analysis.Methods We analysed the axial T2WI and T1-weighted contrast-enhancement (T1CE) images of preoperative MRI in 217 patients with pathologically diagnosed GBM. Patients were divided into negative and positive VEGF groups, with the latter group further subdivided into low and high expression and analysed by the machine learning model built by the maximum relevance and minimum redundancy (mRMR) algorithm and the extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) classifier. The area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) and accuracy were calculated for the training and validation sets. Results Positive VEGF in GBM was 63.1% (137/217), with a high expression ratio of 53.3% (73/137). To predict the positive and negative VEGF expression, seven radiomic features were selected with three features from T1CE and four from T2WI. The accuracy and AUC were 0.83 and 0.81, respectively, in the training set, and were 0.73 and 0.74, respectively, in the validation set. To predict high and low levels, seven radiomic features were selected, with two from T1CE, one from T2WI, and four from the data combinations of T1CE and T2WI. The accuracy and AUC were 0.88 and 0.88, respectively, in the training set, and 0.72, and 0.72, respectively, in the validation set. Conclusion The VEGF expression status in GBM can be predicted using a machine learning model. Radiomic features resulting from data combinations of different MRI sequences could be helpful for analysis.
Effectiveness of Prophylactic Antibiotics in Infection Prevention in Closed Lower-Limb Fracture Surgery
Authors: Jokar Rahmatollah , Esmaeilnejadganji Seyyed Mokhtar , Bijani Ali , Ahangar Sekineh kamali , Shafeei Nahid
Published: March 2022

Background:‌ Postoperative infection is a major orthopedic problem that can be reduced by prescribing antibiotics to prevent surgical infection as an effective strategy. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of prophylactic antibiotics to prevent infection in closed lower limb fracture surgery. Methods:‌ The present study was conducted on all patients with closed lower limb fracture from hip to the ankle that underwent Open reduction and internal fixation ‌(ORIF)‌ by a surgeon and received antibiotics and prophylactic antibiotics. The patients who received cefazolin prophylactic antibiotics 1 hour before surgery and 24 hours after surgery were put into the first group. Those receiving cefazolin prophylactic antibiotics 1 hour before surgery and up to 72 hours after surgery were put into the second group. It should be noted that the criterion for the presence of infection was the physician’s clinical judgment based on clinical manifestations such as heat, redness and swelling, pain and infectious secretions, and laboratory tests. Results:‌ Of 140 patients with closed lower limb fractures, two patients‌ (1.4%)‌were infected in each group. The culture of two patients with infection resulted in Staphylococcus aureus, and both patients showed fever and chill symptoms. Infection rates in patients, who received prophylactic antibiotics for 24 hours, had no significant difference with those who received antibiotics for 72 hours ‌(p=0.99).Conclusion:‌ Based on the present study results, the 24-hour prophylactic antibiotic administration to reduce risks of postoperative infection of the closed lower limb fracture in patients can be a suitable alternative for the long-term use of antibiotics.
Evaluating the genetic relationship between spondyloarthritis and human plasma proteins: Linkage disequilibrium score regression
Authors: Xu Jiawen , Si Haibo , Zeng Yi , Wu Yuangang , Shen Bin
Published: March 2022

Background: Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a kind of complex bone disease influenced by genetic factors, environment, and lifestyles. In recent years, the impact of human plasma proteins on the development of SpA has been reported. However, the genetic relationships between human plasma proteins and SpA have not systematically studied.Methods: The genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary dataset of SpA was derived from a published study, involving a total of 452,264 White British individuals (3,966 SpA patients and 448,298 controls). The GWAS summary dataset for 3,622 human plasma proteins was derived from the published study. Consequently, linkage disequilibrium score regression (LD score regression) analysis was performed to evaluate the genetic correlations between each human plasma protein and SpA. The significant plasma proteins were further compared with the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) detected by the mRNA expression profiles of SpA.Results: For LD score regression analysis, 5 kinds of human plasma proteins were found to be associated with SpA, such as Testis-specific chromodomain protein Y 1(rg =0.2973, P value=0.0439), Interleukin-17D (rg =0.3890, P value=0.0381), Neurensin-1(rg =0.3667, P value=0.0333), Trypsin-2(rg =0.3653, P value=0.0380), Serpin A9(rg =0.3746, P value=0.0424). Among them, IL-17D is the common gene identified for SpA both at protein level and gene expression level (P protein value=0.0006, P mRNA value=0.0381).Conclusions: We identified several SpA associated human plasma proteins. Our novel findings may provide new ideas for the future study of the genetic mechanism of SpA.
Cost-Based Analyses of Random Neighbor and Derived Sampling Methods
Authors: Novick Yitzchak , Bar-Noy Amotz
Published: March 2022

Random neighbor sampling, or RN , is a method for sampling vertices with a mean degree greater than that of the graph. Instead of na¨ıvely sampling a vertex from a graph and retaining it (‘random vertex’ or RV), a neighbor of the vertex is selected instead. While considerable research has analyzed various aspects of RN , the extra cost of sampling a second vertex is typically not addressed. This paper explores RN sampling from the perspective of cost. We break down the cost of sampling into two distinct costs, that of sampling a vertex and that of sampling a neighbor of an already sampled vertex, and we also include the cost of actually selecting a vertex/neighbor and retaining it for use rather than discarding it. With these three costs as our cost-model, we explore RN and compare it to RV in a more fair manner than comparisons that have been made in previous research. As we delve into costs, a number of variants to RN are introduced. These variants improve on the cost-effectiveness of RN in regard to particular costs and priorities. Our full cost-benefit analysis highlights strengths and weaknesses of the methods. We particularly focus on how our methods perform for sampling high-degree and low-degree vertices, which further enriches the understanding of the methods and how they can be practically applied. We also suggest ‘two-phase’ methods that specifically seek to cover both high-degree and low-degree vertices in separate sampling phases.
Light color efficiency-balanced trans-palpebral illumination for widefield fundus photography of the retina and choroid
Authors: Son Taeyoon , MA JIECHAO , TOSLAK DEVRIM , ROSSI ALFA , KIM HOONSUP , Chan Robison , Yao Xincheng
Published: March 2022

A wide-field fundus camera, which can selectively evaluate the retina and choroid, is desirable for better detection and treatment evaluation of eye diseases. Trans-palpebral illumination has been demonstrated for wide-field fundus photography, but its application for true-color retinal imaging is challenging due to the light efficiency delivered through the eyelid and sclera is highly wavelength dependent. This study is to test the feasibility of true-color retinal imaging using efficiency-balanced visible light illumination, and to validate multiple spectral imaging (MSI) of the choroid. 530 nm, 625 nm, 780 nm and 970 nm light emission diodes (LED)s are used to quantitatively evaluate the spectral efficiency of the trans-palpebral illumination. In comparison with 530 nm illumination, the 625 nm, 780 nm and 970 nm light efficiencies are 30.25, 523.05, and 1238.35 times higher. The light efficiency-balanced 530 nm and 625 nm illumination control can be used to produce true-color retinal image with contrast enhancement. The 780 nm light image enhances the visibility of choroidal vasculature, and the 970 nm image is predominated by large veins in the choroid. Without the need of pharmacological pupillary dilation, a 140° eye-angle field of view (FOV) is demonstrated in a snapshot fundus image. In coordination with a fixation target, the FOV can be readily expanded over the equator of the eye to visualize vortex ampullas.
Prevalence, psychiatric correlates, and psychosocial determinants of illicit substance use among UK undergraduate students
Authors: Akram Umair , Foster Holly
Published: March 2022

This study examined the prevalence of illegal drug use in UK students and motivators behind such behaviour. Additionally, we explored possible relationships between substance use, psychosocial motivators, and psychiatric distress. N=543 students completed online measures of substance use, anxiety, depression, perceived stress, insomnia. A series of reasons behind their use were ranked based on importance. Reported cannabis, cocaine, nitrous oxide, ketamine and MDMA use were most prevalent based on lifetime, past year, and month assessments. The experience of anxiety, depression, perceived stress, and insomnia were related to increased reports of substance use. Poor self-confidence and self-medication were key motivators of illicit drug use in those presenting greater psychiatric distress. These outcomes add to the sparse body of literature concerning illicit substance use in relation to psychiatric distress amongst UK students. Furthermore, we provided novel insight into the psychosocial motivators of such use.
A neutron diffraction study of boussingaultite, (NH4)2[Mg(H2O)6](SO4)2
Authors: Gatta G. Diego , Guastella Giorgio , Guastoni Alessandro , Gagliardi Valentina , Cañadillas-Delgado Laura , Fernandez-Diaz Maria Teresa
Published: March 2022

The crystal structure and chemical composition of boussingaultite from Pécs-Vasas, Mecsek Mountains, South Hungary, were investigated by single-crystal neutron diffraction (at 20 K) along with a series of chemical analytical techniques [i.e., gravimetric determination of sulfates, EDTA titrimetric determination of magnesium, ion selective electrode for F and Cl, indirect gravimetric determination of ammonium as (NH4,Rb,Cs,K) tetraphenylborate, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy for REE and other minor elements, elemental analysis for C, N, and H content, high-T mass loss for H2O content]. The concentrations of more than 50 elements were measured. The experimental formula of the boussingaultite is: [(NH4)1.77K0.22)Σ1.99[(Mg0.95Mn0.06)Σ1.01(H2O)5.7](SO4)1.99. Neutron data analysis confirms that the structure of boussingaultite is built up by isolated Mg(H2O)6-octahedra, along with isolated NH4- and SO4-tetrahedra connected by a complex H-bonds network. Mg2+ is completely solvated by H2O molecules in a typical octahedral bonding configuration. All the seven independent oxygen sites in the structure are involved in H-bonds, as donors or as acceptors. The geometry of all the H2O molecules, bonded to Mg, is in line with that usually observed in crystalline compounds. The H2O molecules show moderate-strong H-bonds, with H···Oacceptor and Odonor···Oacceptor ranging between 1.72–1.87 and 2.70–2.84 Å, respectively, along with Odonor-H···Oacceptor angles between 168–178°. The four independent N-H···O bonds show H···Oacceptor and Ndonor···Oacceptor distances ranging between 1.81–2.00 and 2.84–2.98 Å, respectively, with N-H···O angles between 158–176°. All the H-bonds of the H2O molecules and of the NH4-group involve the oxygen sites of the SO4-group as acceptors: the SO4-group is, therefore, the “bridging unit” between the NH4 and the Mg(H2O)6 units, via H-bonds. Our structure refinement proved, unambiguously, that the partial K+ vs. NH4+ replacement generates a local disorder. K lies at the N site, and its bonding configuration can be described by a distorted polyhedron with CN = 8. However, the K+ vs. NH4+ replacement implies a change in the configuration of the SO4-tetrahedron, through a sort of rotation of the polyhedron. This is the first evidence of the presence of a partial picromerite component in the boussingaultite structure, which gives rise to a local disorder likely due to the significantly different bonding configurations of the two cations. Our refinement also revealed that Mn2+ replaces Mg2+ at the Mg site. No evidence of distortion of the octahedron is observed in response to such a replacement, but the fraction of Mn2+ is modest. An analysis of previous Raman and IR results is provided, and is compared with the experimental results of this study.
The structure and content of special customs statistics as a data source for the economic analysis of customs payments
Authors: Попов В.В.
Published: March 2022

Статья посвящена вопросам рассмотрения содержания одного из направлений деятельности таможенных органов - ведения специальной таможенной статистики, с позиции ее дальнейшего применения как эмпирической базы проведения экономического анализа таможенных платежей как вида экономической деятельности таможенных органов. Также затрагиваются и международные аспекты ведения таможенной статистики как основы получения необходимой информации в области внешней торговли, деятельности таможенных органов и ряда смежных междисциплинарных вопросов.

The article is devoted to the issues of considering the content of one of the activities of customs authorities - maintaining special customs statistics, from the point of view of its further application as an empirical basis for economic analysis of customs payments as a type of economic activity of customs authorities. The international aspects of customs statistics are also touched upon as the basis for obtaining the necessary information in the field of foreign trade, the activities of customs authorities and a number of related interdisciplinary issues.
Scientific and industrial cooperation as a factor in the development of entrepreneurship in the region
Authors: Иванов С.Л.
Published: March 2022

В данной статье рассматривается влияние научно-производственной кооперации (НПК) на развитие предпринимательства в регионе. Для этого были использованы данные мониторинга состояния малого и среднего предпринимательства, проведенного Вологодским научным центром Российской академии наук при участии автора. Было доказано, что НПК является одним из значимых инструментов развития предпринимательства. В частности, предприятия, участвующие в научно-производственной кооперации, способны повышать свою конкурентоспособность на внешних рынках, создавать новые рабочие места (в том числе, высокотехнологичные).

This article examines the impact of scientific and industrial cooperation (RPC) on the development of entrepreneurship in the region. For this, we used data from monitoring the state of small and medium-sized businesses, carried out by the Vologda Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences with the participation of the author. It has been proven that CPD is one of the most important tools for the development of entrepreneurship. In particular, enterprises participating in scientific and industrial cooperation are able to increase their competitiveness in foreign markets, create new jobs (including high-tech ones).