bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of autophagy regulated by the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and innate lymphoid cells in eosinophilic chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Zhou Min-Li , Wang Chen , Ma Di-Jiang , Liu Yong-Cai , Cheng Ke-Jia
Published: April 2022

The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and autophagy are important physiological processes. But their roles in eCRSwNP remains controversial. In this study, we used the eCRSwNP mouse model, PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway inhibitors, and autophagy inhibitors and activators to investigate the regulatory effects of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway on autophagy, and their effects on eosinophilic inflammation, and tissue remodeling. The role of ILC2s in eCRSwNP was also studied, and the relationship between ILC2s and autophagy was preliminarily determined. Our results show that eosinophilic inflammation in eCRSwNP mice could be inhibited by promoting the autophagy; otherwise, eosinophilic inflammation could be promoted. Meanwhile, inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway can further promote autophagy and inhibit eosinophilic inflammation. Meanwhile, inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and promoting autophagy can reduce the number of ILC2s and the severity of tissue remodeling in the nasal polyps of eCRSwNP mice. We conclude that the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway plays roles in eosinophilic inflammation and tissue remodeling of eCRSwNP, in part by regulating the level of autophagy. The downregulation of autophagy is a pathogenesis of eCRSwNP; therefore, the recovery of normal autophagy levels might be a new target for eCRSwNP therapy. Furthermore, autophagy might inhibit eosinophilic inflammation and tissue remodeling, in part by reducing the number of ILC2s.
From determining brain insulin resistance in a sporadic Alzheimer’s disease model to exploring the region-dependent effect of intranasal insulin
Authors: Knezovic Ana , Budisa Stjepan , Perhoc Ana Babic , Homolak Jan , Barilar Jelena Osmanovic
Published: April 2022

Impaired response to insulin has been linked to many neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Animal model of sporadic AD has been developed by intracerebroventricular (icv) administration of streptozotocin (STZ), which given peripherally causes insulin resistance. Difficulty in demonstrating insulin resistance in this model led to our aim: to determine brain regional and peripheral response after intranasal (IN) administration of insulin in control and STZ-icv rats, by exploring peripheral and central metabolic parameters. One month after STZ-icv or vehicle-icv administration to 3-months-old male Wistar rats, cognitive status was determined after which rats received 2 IU of fast-acting insulin aspart intranasally (CTR+INS; STZ+INS) or saline only (CTR and STZ). Rats were sacrificed two hours after administration and metabolic and glutamatergic parameters were measured in plasma, CSF and the brain. Insulin and STZ increased amyloid-β concentration in plasma (CTR+INS and STZ vs CTR), while there was no effect on glucose and insulin plasma and CSF levels. INS normalized the levels of c-fos in temporal cortex of STZ+INS vs STZ (co-localized with neurons), while hypothalamic c-fos was found co-localized with the microglial marker. STZ and insulin brain region-specifically altered the levels and activity of proteins involved in cell metabolism and glutamate signaling. Central changes found after INS in STZ-icv rats suggest hippocampal and cortical insulin sensitivity. Altered hypothalamic metabolic parameters of STZ-icv rats were not normalized by INS, indicating possible hypothalamic insulin insensitivity. Brain insulin sensitivity depends on the affected brain region and presence of metabolic dysfunction induced by STZ-icv administration.
A New Type of Half-Metallic Fully Compensated Ferrimagnet
Authors: Semboshi Satoshi , Umetsu Rie Y. , Kawahito Yousuke , Akai Hisazumi
Published: April 2022

Half-metallic fully compensated ferrimagnets (HM-FCFMs) constitute a special class of half-metals exhibiting zero magnetization at zero temperature. While there have been a number of theoretical studies predicting the existence of such materials over the last 25 years, very few of those have been synthesized and observed that they exhibit expected properties. Herein, we demonstrate that a NiAs-type hexagonal-structured (CrFe)S compound could serve as an HM-FCFM material. It has a half-metallic nature of 100% spin-polarised Fermi surfaces and yet zero magnetisation at the ground state. The magnetisation shows linear behaviour as a function of the magnetic field at temperatures below the compensation temperature (~190 K). In addition, it shows a high magnetic coercivity of 3.8 T at 300 K. These magnetic features contribute to a significant development in the application of HM-FCFMs for spintronics devices.
An Interval-Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy-based CODAS for sustainable supplier selection
Authors: Afzali Mahboubeh , Afzali Afsaneh , Pourmohammadi Hamid
Published: April 2022

With the advent of information age, supplier selection has attracted researchers' attention in the field of supply chain management. Optimal supplier selection meets the competitiveness of industries and satisfaction of customers in the supply chain management. However, considering sustainable factors including environmental and social parameters, alongside customers' expectations are the main challenge of supplier selection. Moreover, incomplete and hesitation among experts' judgment result in uncertainty that leads the more complex assessment of criteria. In this paper, an innovative multi -criteria decision making method was developed to address supplier selection process and supplier order allocation based on customers' expectations with respect to the sustainable primers. The proposed method was based on fuzzy Combinative Distance-based Assessment (CODAS) extended with Interval-Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy ( IVIF ) for multi -criteria sustainable supplier selection. The proposed model was combined with hesitation linguistic set to provide two goals including a: dealing with experts' hesitation as well as imprecise and vague of decision makers' knowledge in order to express assessment values. b: coping with missing or nonexistence of attribute assessment values. The proposed method was performed on a steel mill as a case study to illustrate the effectiveness of decision process on four suppliers in detail. The results showed that the presented model could consider conflicting parameters and enhance high order imprecision and uncertainty.
Machine learning based risk prediction for Parkinson's disease with nationwide health screening data
Authors: Park You Hyun , Suh Jee Hyun , Kim Yong Wook , Kang Dae Ryong , Shin Jaeyong , Yang Seung Nam , Yoon Seo Yeon
Published: April 2022

Introduction: There have been several studies of machine learning (ML) models for Parkinson’s disease (PD) prediction using neuroimaging and movement analyses, however, ML studies for PD prediction based on a large population-based dataset have been rare. The objective of this study was to propose the PD prediction models using ML algorithms based on the National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening datasets.Methods: We selected individuals who had participated in the national health screening programs more than five times between 2002 and 2015. PD was defined based on ICD-code (G20) and a matched cohort of individuals without PD were selected by a 1:1 random sampling method. Various ML algorithms were applied for PD prediction; then, the performances of prediction models were compared.Results: The Neural Network, Random Forest and Gradient Boosting algorithms exhibited the best average prediction accuracy (average area under the receiver operating characteristic curve: 0.838, 0.828 and 0.819, respectively) among all algorithms validated in this study. The accuracy of the proposed model was higher in male group than in female group. The most important factor for predicting PD occurrence was age, followed by cholesterol, hemoglobin, body mass index, and glucose. When analyzed by sex, smoking and alcohol consumption in men and income level, physical activity, and diabetes mellitus in women were found to be highly correlated with the occurrence of PD.Conclusion: Our results indicate that the proposed health screening dataset-based PD prediction model using ML algorithms is readily applicable, produces validated results and outperforms the previous PD prediction models.
WITHDRAWN: Seismic Fragility Assessment of Multistory Precast Parking Structures
Authors: Li Hao , Zhou Wei
Published: April 2022

In this article, the fragility and collapse mechanisms of multistory precast parking structures in China, designed using the recent Chinese building codes, is assessed. The structures represent general structural aspects of precast parking building stock of China, considering the variability of a set of structural parameters: shear stiffness and tensile stiffness of connectors, number of stories and two orthogonal directions of the seismic action. A probabilistic analysis based on fragility curves is a robust technique to assess the influence of these parameters on the expected seismic performance, however, such investigations are difficult as they need extremely time-consuming analysis such as Incremental Dynamic Analysis (IDA). In this paper, fragility curves are obtained by using the SPO2FRAG procedure. The results show that the variation of the considered parameters significant affect the seismic response and seismic fragilities of precast parking structures.
Neuromorphic computing for short-term wind power forecasting
Authors: Sopeña Juan Manuel González , Pakrashi Vikram , Ghosh Bidisha
Published: April 2022

There is an upwards trend of applying deep learning to model wind power forecasts. The modelling and training of these architectures may take many computational resources, hindering the possibility of implementing such algorithms for shorter term prediction horizons. Emerging computational architectures such as neuromorphic computing have the potential of real-time learning using brain-inspired algorithms characterized by low latency and low energy consumption. In particular, we introduce spiking neural networks for short-term wind power forecasting, taking into consideration the current development and features of neuromorphic devices.
Long-term elevated atmospheric CO2 and warming affect the root-associated microbiomes of rice and wheat
Authors: Gao Ke , Mao Zhenbo , Meng Enxi , Li Jie , Liu Cheng , Liu Xiaoyu , Zhang Yingying , Zhang Long , Wang Guangli , Liu Yuan
Published: April 2022

Background: Plant root-associated microbial communities profoundly affect plant nutrition and productivity. Although elevated atmospheric CO2 and warming have been suggested to affect above- and belowground plant processes, it remains unclear how root-associated microbial communities respond to elevated CO2 and warming, particularly in agroecosystems. Result: Here, an open-air field experiment was conducted to assay the interactive effects of elevated CO2 (500 ppm) and warming (+2℃) on the root-associated microbiomes and soil enzyme activities in a rice-wheat rotation ecosystem. The results revealed a significant increase in rhizosphere soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen contents from elevated CO2. In addition, glucosidase, β-xylosidase, and phosphatase activities increased significantly. The rhizosphere soils of rice and wheat had significantly higher richness and Shannon diversity indices than the root endosphere. Besides, the bacterial and fungal compositions were significantly altered between the two compartments. Elevated CO2 and warming had more impact on the rhizosphere soil microbiomes and altered their composition by changing the relative abundance of some particular groups. Soil pH, SOC, and available potassium significantly altered the dominant bacterial phyla in the rhizosphere. In contrast, the SOC affected the root endophytic bacterial phyla. Moreover, more bacterial and fungal genera were significantly correlated with soil variables in the rhizosphere than in the root endosphere. Elevated CO2 had significant effects on the numbers of bacterial genera, including Burkholderia, Rhizobium, Pantoea, Gemmatimonas, Dongia, Defluviicoccus, Anaeromyxobacter, and Povalibacter, that significantly correlated with soil variables. Conclusion: These results indicate that the microbial communities in the rhizosphere of rice and wheat are more sensitive to elevated CO2 and warming than the root endophytic microbiomes. Moreover, the dissimilarity of root-associated bacteria is greater than that of the fungal community in the root endosphere.
Ethnozoological uses of wildlife species among the Iraqw people of Mbulu District, Northern Tanzania
Authors: Hariohay Kwaslema Malle , Chagama James Gasper , Machumu Alodia K. , Lyamuya Richard D. , Ntalwila Janemary , Kideghesho Jafari Ramadhani
Published: April 2022

Introduction: The medicinal use of wild fauna has been a common practice for centuries. Human being has developed the knowledge on the exploitation and use of wild fauna for food, clothing, traditional healing and other purposes. Of recent, an interest in ethnozoological studies aiming at discovering new medications for human and animal health has increased. Although the knowledge on medicinal use of wild species is well established in many African tribes, it is rarely documented and thus fading with generations as the elders are more familiar on animals and their uses than young people. This study sought to record and document the traditional use of different wildlife species among the Iraqw people of Northern Tanzania and form a basis for conservation and sustainable use of these species. Method: The study employed semi-structured interview to collect data from 45 key informants who were identified to be knowledgeable and key users of wild animals in three villages namely Endagaw, Mewedan and Ng’wandakw in Mbulu district. Results: The results revealed multiple uses of 28 wild animals whereby 23 were used for food, 10 for medicinal and 5 had ritualistic values of were associated with traditional beliefs. The hare (Lepus microtis), Aardvark (Orycteropus afer), zebra (Equus guaga), ostritch (Struthio camelus), helmeted guinea fowl (Numida meleagris), African honeybee (Apis mellifera scutellate), ring necked dove (Streptopelia capicola), African mourning dove (Streptopelia decipiens), speckled pigeon (Columba guinea) were used for both food and medicine. Fat from baboon (Papio anubis), African elephant dung (Loxodonta africana), and black necked spitting cobra (Naja nigricollis) were used as medicines for treatment of different ailments. Various medicinal uses such as treatment of wound from burn, kneading the pregnant women giving birth, ear pains and squatting the painful muscles. Animals such as Aardvark (Orycteropus afer), Hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris), Bush pig (Potamochoerus larvatus), pangolin (Smutsia temminckii) and owl (Strigiformes spp) had ritualistic value based on traditional beliefs.Conclusion: Traditional knowledge on the uses of wild animals is well established among the elders of the Iraqw community. However, this knowledge is fading with time due to minimal interactions between the youth and nature caused by introduction of formal education, embracing of foreign religions, increased use of pharmaceutical drugs and the declining of wildlife species as a result of habitat loss and overexploitation. We recommend more studies of this kind in order to provide a basis for conservation and sustainable use of wild animals in different parts of Africa and globally.
Age and growth studies of Indian oil sardine (Sardinella longiceps) using hard part microstructure, a tool for biological and ecological understanding
Authors: EM Abdussamad , Rohit Prathibha , Ghosh Shubhadeep , KG Mini , P Shameer , NV Dipti , TB Retheesh , AM Abbas , AR Akhil , Ismail Shihab , A Gopalakrishnan
Published: April 2022

Age and growth characteristics of the Indian oil sardine (Sardinella longiceps) was studied by interpreting microstructures on hard parts. Microstructures were validated to the time scales by observing their frequency of formation on hard parts of the fishes reared in confinement. Among the hard parts, sagittal otolith alone was found suitable for ageing the species as frequency of microstructure formation on them followed definite time scale. The estimates of age at length data and growth parameters from otolith analysis indicated faster growth in the species than the earlier reports by other methods. Despite an expected sexual divergence in their growth, results show identical growth in both sexes. It further highlighted the prevalence of very distinct temporal growth variation driven by habitat environment indicating significance of hard part studies on ecological understanding of fishes. It also aided in tracing the precise time of birth with high precision, identifying the cohorts that supported the fishery and possible inter-regional migration of the species. The data generated from hard part ageing would aid in better eco-biological understanding of species, precise stock assessment outputs and fishery forecasting.
The effects of genistein supplemented before or after irradiation on DNA injury in human lymphocytes in vitro
Authors: Dobrzyńska Małgorzata M. , Gajowik Aneta
Published: April 2022

Purpose.
The study aimed at the investigation if application of genistein (GEN) at different time prior or past irradiation may avert or reduce the induced by irradiation injury of DNA in human lymphocytes.
Materials and Methods.
The isolated lymphocytes were exposed to X-irradiation (0.5; 1 Gy). GEN (1 µM/ml; 10 µM/ml) was appended to attempts at various times prior or past irradiation (1 h prior, immediately prior, immediately past, 1 h past). We joined each X-rays dose with each GEN dose. After 1h of incubation DNA damages were examined using Comet assay.
Results.
Combination of 1 µM/ml of GEN given 1 h before irradiation with low or high dose markedly decreased induced by irradiation DNA injury. Higher dose of GEN applied immediately before or after irradiation markedly extended the frequency of DNA injury generated by irradiation. The result of application 1 µM/ml GEN 1 h after irradiation was not significantly different compared to control. The effect of 1 Gy + 10 µM/ml GEN was not significantly lower compared to each agent alone.
Conclusions.
Only a very low concentration of GEN was applied before irradiation, it may be considered as a potential radiomitigator/radioprotector. High doses of GEN work as a radiosentitizer and may potent the effects of radiotherapy.
Clinical application of Headache Impact test (HIT)-6 and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) for sleep apnea headache
Authors: Tabata Hiromitsu , Kinoshita Masako , Taniguchi Mitsutaka , Ooi Motoharu
Published: April 2022

Background
Sleep apnea headache is a major symptom accompanying obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), but relatively little evidence has been reported on the magnitude of its negative effects on patients or the evaluation of therapeutic effects. We quantitatively assessed sleep apnea headache using the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) and headache impact test (HIT)-6.
Methods
The first part of this study enrolled 86 patients (72 male; mean [± standard deviation] age 53.2 ± 13.8 years) who had been diagnosed with OSA by polysomnography in our sleep center and investigated the prevalence and characteristics of sleep apnea headache. The second part enrolled 21 patients (12 male; mean age, 47.5 ± 13.0 years) diagnosed with sleep apnea headache by polysomnography and/or peripheral arterial tonometry and evaluated the effects of OSA therapy on headache. Medical records including ESS, HIT-6, and polysomnographic data were retrospectively analyzed.
Results
The prevalence of sleep apnea headache among OSA patients was 22.1%, and was higher in female (50.0%) than in male (16.7%). The proportion of N3 and HIT-6 score showed a significant negative correlation (Pearson’s R = -0.51, p < 0.05). In female, median apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was significantly lower in patients with headache (26.1 /h [interquartile range 21.4–29.6 /h]) than in patients without (54.2 /h [41.3–73.9 /h], p < 0.05, Wilcoxon rank-sum test). HIT-6 and ESS scores improved from 56.4 ± 9.7 to 45.9 ± 8.4 and from 9.0 ± 4.4 to 5.3 ± 4.2 in patients with oral appliance (OA), and from 54.3 ± 10.7 to 44.6 ± 6.1 and from 10.0 ± 4.0 to 4.9 ± 2.9 with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). In patients with good CPAP adherence, these scores improved from 58.1 ± 10.8 to 44.0 ± 6.0 and from 9.6 ± 3.8 to 3.6 ± 1.7.
Conclusion
Among patients with OSA, prevalence of sleep apnea headache was higher in female than in male. In female, headache was associated with relatively mild OSA. OA showed substantial effects on headache in mild to moderate OSA patients. CPAP adherence was important for improving the headache. HIT-6 score appears useful for the diagnosis and management of sleep apnea headache.
Is There a Need for a Technical Certification System for Gynecological Robotic Surgery? Questionnaire Survey of Members of the Japan Society of Gynecologic and Obstetric Endoscopy and Minimally Invasive Therapy
Authors: komatsu hiroaki , Hiraike Osamu , Fukuhara Rie , Yokoyama Yoshihito , Takahashi Nobutaka , Nishi Hirotaka , Baba Tsukasa , Fujii Takuma , Kitawaki Jo , Kobayashi Hiroaki , Mandai Masaki
Published: April 2022

Background
The Japan Society of Gynecologic and Obstetric Endoscopy and Minimally Invasive Therapy (JSGOE) introduced a system for the certification of laparoscopic surgeons in 2002 and a system for the certification of facilities in 2014. We examined the opinions of the members of the Japan Society of Gynecologic and Obstetric Endoscopy and Minimally Invasive Therapy (JSGOE) regarding the necessity of a certification training system and a technical certification system for robotic surgery skills in Japan.
Methods
Members of the JSGOE were surveyed with two questionnaires.
Results
Overall, 870 and 519 participants responded to the first and second questionnaires, respectively. Half of the respondents indicated that both systems were necessary. The breakdown by age and qualifications showed that this was especially true for the younger generation and for respondents who had more experience with robotic surgery. Overall, 40% of the respondents judged that a certification system for robotic surgery alone (with or without certification in laparoscopic surgery but with a requirement of experience in laparoscopic surgery) would be necessary.
Conclusion
The opinions of the JSGOE members on making a certification system for robotic surgery were split into two clear-cut camps. Thus, we must further seek the extent of public demand for using a public survey so that a final decision can be made on whether to establish this system.
Phenotypic Metagenomics tracks Wastewater-Associated Clinically Important Beta-lactam Resistant Bacteria Invading River Habitats
Authors: Ju Feng , Lee Jangwoo , Beck Karin , Zhang Guoqing , Gekenidis Maria-Theresia , Hummerjohann Jörg , Bürgmann Helmut
Published: April 2022

Background
The abundance of clinically important antibiotic resistance determinants in wastewater has raised concerns regarding their dissemination into the environment and transmission to animals and humans. However, the high bacterial diversity and complexity of environmental microbiomes makes it challenging to comprehensively detect and quantify clinically relevant resistance determinants. To tackle this outstanding technical bottleneck, classic phenotype-based approaches vastly underestimate the diversity of clinically relevant resistance in environmental reservoirs, while increasingly applied genotyping-based approaches alone usually fail to capture information on the resistance phenotype, viability, and activities of resistant bacteria.
Results
Here, we developed phenotypic metagenomics as a novel high-throughput approach to couple selective cultivation (phenotyping) and metagenomics (genotyping) to overcome these difficulties of classic phenotype or genotype-based approaches. Using this new method, we were able to track the invasion of wastewater-born multi-resistant opportunistic pathogens into river sediment and epilithic biofilm in 9 Swiss rivers downstream of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). The results show that WWTPs release clinically important carbapenem-resistant opportunistic pathogens and promotes the spread of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase resistance genes in the receiving river water. Especially, epilithic biofilms were identified as an unrecognized environmental reservoir of wastewater-associated carbapenem resistant bacteria, which appear to also invade the gut of amphipods, a group of generalist invertebrate in local rivers. We further used metagenome-assembled genomes to characterize phenotypically resistant bacteria and their extended-spectrum beta-lactamase and carbapenemase resistance genes to confirm our finding that wastewater effluent increases resistance levels of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases in the receiving river water.
Conclusions
This study demonstrates that where culture plating and culture-independent metagenomics fail individually, their complementary combination allows tracking multi-resistant bacteria as they invade river habitats. The proof-of-concept approach that couple resistance phenotyping and genotyping provides a roadmap for sensitive, standardized, and cost-effective surveillance of the clinically relevant aspects of environmental resistomes. The findings call for a thorough life cycle assessment of the selection and transmission of last-resort antibiotic resistance determinants from clinical to environmental reservoirs.
RRN3P2, RPL7AP64, ACTR3C, & RPL7AP30 as Novel Prognostic Biomarkers for Glioblastoma (GBM): A Bioinformatics-Based Analysis
Authors: Malik Param
Published: April 2022

Background
The World Health Organization (WHO) notes gliomas as the most frequent intrinsic tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) and classifies gliomas into multiple histological types. Among these, the most invasive type of brain cancer histology is Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). GBM is an extremely fast-growing type of malignant brain tumor seen in more than 15% of all patients with primary malignant brain tumors. The treatment of GBM poses a substantial clinical challenge due to tumor heterogeneity, ineffectiveness of surgery/radiotherapy, and chemoresistance. Prognostic biomarkers will enable clinicians to identify patients with a more aggressive tumor evolution.
Methods
To identify novel biomarkers in GBM, gene expression datasets of metastatic brain cancer were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), a publicly-available collection of genomic data relating to the molecular and clinical basis of cancer. Genes from patient files were retrieved and analyzed for oncogenic capacity, metastatic contribution, and potential for prognostic signature.
Results
Using the differentially expressed genes RRN3P2, RPL7AP64, ACTR3C, and RPL7AP30, survival curves were generated using Kaplan Meier test to explore the prognostic value of the select risk signature. Further, immune infiltration analyses were performed to assess the immune infiltrates of six tumor-immune infiltrating cells (TIIC) subsets. Gene Ontology and KEGG were used to identify the correlated molecular pathways of the target genes and present possible therapeutic direction. Upregulation of RRN3P2, RPL7AP64, and ACTR3C were associated with lower survival probability among patients, while upregulation of RPL7AP30 correlated with higher survival probability among patients. This study explores the prognostic value of RRN3P2, RPL7AP64, ACTR3C, and RPL7AP30 genes in GBM, and provides new insight into the therapeutic value of the correlated molecular pathways of the set of genes. Further, this model is expected to provide guidance for clinical evaluation of the prognosis of GBM patients with overexpression of the aforementioned genes.
Conclusion
Overexpression of RRN3P2, RPL7AP64, and ACTR3C gene was significantly associated with poor survival outcomes in patients, while overexpression of RPL7AP30 gene was significantly associated with better survival in patients. Therefore, RRN3P2, RPL7AP64, ACTR3C & RPL7AP30 can potentially be used as auxiliary prognostic biomarkers for GBM, and upon further in-vitro experimentation, their respective molecular pathways can serve as potential therapeutic targets.
Mechanistic Study on the Effect of Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor Agonist Drugs against Doxorubicin Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Ali Azza A. , Saad Eman B. , Hassan Rana , El-Raouf Ola M. Abd , Gad Amany M.
Published: April 2022

Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the basic chemotherapeutic drugs for cancer treatment, but its use is restricted due to noxious side effects. One of the major side effects that restrict its medical use is kidney failure. The PPAR-α agonists have been displayed to have beneficial effects against drug-induced nephropathy in animals. Similarly, PPAR-γ agonists have revealed nephroprotection by haemodynamic, vascular, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and metabolic effects. This study examined the nephroprotective effects of fenofibrate (FENO) and pioglitazone (PIO) against the nephrotoxicity induced by doxorubicin in rats and illustrate the probable mechanisms underlying these protective effects. For this purpose, Male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing (200 to 230 g) were allocated into seven groups treated for 15 days as following: control (50% corn oil + 50% DMSO p.o), fenofibrate (100 mg/kg p.o) and pioglitazone (10 mg/kg p.o) as well as four groups of DOX (15 mg/kg i.p on 11th day). DOX groups included DOX alone and DOX with protective drugs fenofibrate, pioglitazone or both of them. As a result of doxorubicin nephrotoxicity; serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were significantly elevated. Moreover, renal glutathione (GSH) was significantly reduced while tissue lipid peroxidation malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nuclear factor-kappa B p65 (NF-κB p65), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK) and caspase-3 (Casp-3) were significantly increased. Administration of fenofibrate and pioglitazone either alone or in combination significantly attenuated DOX-induced injury by suppression of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis. The above-mentioned biochemical markers were affirmed by histological assessment. In conclusion, Fenofibrate, pioglitazone and their combination possess promising protective effects against doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity through modulation of p38-MAPK/ NF-κB p65 pathway with superiority to the combination.
Development of the genotyping marker for Reeves’ turtle (Mauremys reevesii) using high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis
Authors: Park Chang-Deuk , Kim Keun-Sik , Kim Keun-Yong , Heo Jung Soo , Oh Hong-Shik , Park Seon-Mi , Yoon Ju-Duk
Published: April 2022

The Reeves’ turtle, Mauremys reevesii, resides in freshwater bodies of Korea, China, Japan, and Taiwan, and is designated as an endangered species in the Republic of Korea (ROK). However, international pet trade among East Asian countries has made it difficult to identify the indigenous population of M. reevesii in the ROK. In this study, a genotyping marker targeting the mitochondrial cytochrome b (COB) region that easily distinguishes the Korean population was developed for high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis and applied to 27 blood samples obtained from diverse Korean freshwater bodies and pet trade markets. The HRM analysis produced three distinct HRM curves that were designated as the Korean Type, Chinese Type, and Minor Type, whose results exactly matched those of COB sequencing. Our genotyping method will be useful for the rapid and accurate identification of the native population of M. reevesii in the ROK.
Stepwise logistic regression, hierarchical logistic regression, CART and Naïve Bayes for predicting learners’ numeracy test results
Authors: Montshiwa Tlhalitshi Volition , Botlhoko Tshegofatso
Published: April 2022

The prediction of early childhood numeracy skills development is often studied by determining the learner’s performance in a numeracy test. It is an important study area since numeracy impacts on the learner’s mathematical and statistical abilities later in life. Despite having pros and cons over each other, classification algorithms are often applied in the prediction of early childhood numeracy skills development without justifying the choice of a certain algorithm over others. In this paper, the bi-directional stepwise logistic regression model (SLRM), hierarchical logistic regression model (HLRM), classification and regression tree (CART) and Naïve Bayes (NB) algorithm were compared in terms of their ability to accurately classify some learners as having passed or having failed a numeracy test. The intention was to determine the most accurate algorithm from the four relative to predicting the learner’s performance in a numeracy test. The algorithms were compared using the true positive rate, true negative rate, specificity, sensitivity, classification error, classification accuracy and the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve. The results showed that the HLRM which has been applied by several previous studies on the prediction of numeracy test competence is the best classifier followed by SLRM, CART then NB. The study also confirmed some important predictors of the learner’s performance in a numeracy test some of which were also identified by some previous studies on early childhood numeracy development. Some gaps and recommendations for future research pertaining to the classification algorithms as well as implications for practice were also highlighted. We have made the HLRM scoring algorithm generated from SPSS available as a supplementary material and can be used to classify a set of new learners to either the pass or fail group.
Experience of internal growth of women with recurrent miscarriage: based on the posttraumatic growth theory
Authors: Shin Gisoo , Kim Hye Jin , Kim Sung Hae
Published: April 2022

Purpose
Recurrent miscarriage is an unpredictable trauma in a woman's life, and they experience despair and frustration. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the experience of South Korean women after miscarriage.
Methods
This study conducted to understand the meaning of recurrent miscarriage using a qualitative thematic analysis method based on the posttraumatic growth theory. A total of 23 participants who had repeated miscarriages three or more times participated in this study. The data were collected through in-depth interviews conducted from May to July 2017.
Results
We identified five properties as follows: 1) confusing as like muddy water, 2) self-reflection on daily life, 3) creating a new relationship through empathy, 4) the culture`s inherent animism or shamanism, and 5) transforming for internal growth were derived.
Conclusions
Based on the results of this study, it was found that the participants suffering from miscarriage can recover from their losses through resilience and intervention strategies and ultimately improve their quality of life through emotional support. The findings indicated the value of enhanced recovery education, which might help women understand the changes in their lives after miscarriage.
SIMULATION AND SELECTION OF A PROTECTION TYPES IN THE DESIGN STAGE OF SHIPS AND OFFSHORE STRUCTURES
Authors:   Department of Innovative Shipbuilding and Shelf Development Technologies, Sevastopol State University, 299053 Sevastopol, Russia, Rodkina Аnna , Ivanova Olga ,   Central Design Bureau “Corall” JSC, 299028 Sevastopol, Russia;  Department of Ocean engineering and shipbuilding, Sevastopol State University, 299053 Sevastopol, Russia, Kramar Vadim ,   Department of Informatics and Control in Technical Systems, Sevastopol State University, 299053 Sevastopol, Russia, Dushko Veronika ,   Department of Innovative Shipbuilding and Shelf Development Technologies, Sevastopol State University, 299053 Sevastopol, Russia, Zhilenkov Anton ,   Saint Petersburg State Marine Technical University, Lotsman street, 3, St. Petersburg, 198262, Russia, Chernyi Sergei ,   Admiral Makarov State University of Maritime and Inland Shipping, St.Petersburg, Russia 198035, Russia, Saint-Petersburg, Dvinskaya st., 5/7 Saint Petersburg State Marine Technical University, Lotsman street, 3, St. Petersburg, 198262, Russia Kerch State Maritime Technological University,298309, Kerch, Ordjonikidze 82 Str., Russia, Zinchenko Elena ,   Saint Petersburg State Marine Technical University, Lotsman street, 3, St. Petersburg, 198262, Russia, Zinchenko Anton ,   Saint Petersburg State Marine Technical University, Lotsman street, 3, St. Petersburg, 198262, Russia
Published: April 2022

The requirements of the rules and regulations of the Classification Societies are based on the assumption that during the construction and operation of ships the hull corrosion protection measures are implemented according to the standards and other regulatory documents currently in force. For the purposes of designing the ship hull structures, the load components for different corrosion protection types have been obtained in the paper. There have been collected the data on the relationship between the corrosion protection weight load and the ship displacement, which enables to select the lowest corrosion protection type by weight. Technical and economic parameters of corrosion protection of ship hull structures have been analyzed. To achieve the objective of the paper a cumulative simplified approach of economic feasibility of selecting the corrosion protection type for ship hull structures has been employed. It has been determined that a total cost of protection from stress-corrosion fractures decreases for the ships with a displacement of more than 6000 [t] in the case of usage of the impressed current cathodic protection instead of the sacrificial anode cathodic one. The results of the investigation can be used by shipbuilders at the ship design stage, which enables to make a correct selection of a corrosion protection type and decreases its total cost.
Assessment of the Mechanical Properties of Hybrid Polymer Composites for Denture Applications
Authors:   Materials Engineering Department, University of Technology, Baghdad- 10066, Iraq, Oleiwi Jawad K. , Mohammed Alaa A. ,   Materials Engineering Department, University of Technology, Baghdad- 10066, Iraq
Published: April 2022

Acrylic resin is the dominant material that is broadly utilised to produce partial and complete dentures. The exposure of the denture-base acrylic resins to the oral environment as well as storing media for a certain period causes saliva sorption. In this study, composite materials-based polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) reinforced with 1 wt% of glass fibres and (3, 6 and 9 wt%) yttrium oxide (Y2O3 ) have been prepared, and the addition influence upon some mechanical tests (tensile, flexural, hardness and surface roughness) has been investigated. Afterward, the mechanical properties of composite materials afterimmersion in artificialsaliva forseven days have been evaluated. The results show that the Y2O3 percentage is 6%, which possesses a perfect feature. Thus, such a sample may be an encouraging material for achieving the needed properties for denture use. Furthermore, all mechanical properties were decreased after immersion in synthetic saliva.
Gadolinium-dominant monazite and xenotime: Selective hydrothermal enrichment of middle REE during low-temperature alteration of uraninite, brannerite, and fluorapatite (the Zimná Voda REE-U-Au quartz vein, Western Carpathians, Slovakia)
Authors: Ondrejka Martin , Uher Pavel , Ferenc Štefan , Milovská Stanislava , Mikuš Tomáš , Molnárová Alexandra , Škoda Radek , Kopáčik Richard , Bačík Peter
Published: April 2022

A hydrothermal quartz vein with REE-U-Au mineralization in the Zimná Voda (Gemeric Unit, Western Carpathians, Slovakia) is associated with contact metamorphism between Permian granites and host phyllites and metaquartzites. It contains unique REE minerals of the monazite and xenotime groups. Monazite-(Ce), monazite-(Nd), monazite-(Sm), and Gd-dominant monazite [“monazite-(Gd)”], along with xenotime-(Y) to Gd-dominant xenotime [“xenotime-(Gd)”] and Gd-rich hingganite-(Y) show heterogeneous compositions and reflect a strong fractionation trend toward the enrichment of MREE (Sm to Dy), particularly Gd. Here, the gadolinium abundance reported in “monazite-(Gd)” (≤23.4 wt% Gd2O3) and Gd-rich xenotime-(Y) to “xenotime-(Gd)” (≤28.7 wt% Gd2O3) and accompanied by Gd-rich hingganite-(Y) (≤15.8 wt% Gd2O3), is among the highest Gd concentrations ever reported in natural minerals. The Gd-richest compositions show the following formulas: (Gd0.31Sm0.24 Nd0.15Ce0.10La0.05Dy0.03Y0.03…)0.98PO4 [“monazite-(Gd)”], (Gd0.36Y0.32Dy0.13Sm0.08Tb0.05…)0.98 (P0.96As0.04)1.00O4 [“xenotime-(Gd)”] and (Y0.71Gd0.43Dy0.23Sm0.22Tb0.06Er0.04Nd0.06…Ca0.06)1.96 (☐0.87Fe0.132+)1.00(Be1.82B0.18)2.00(Si1.90As0.10)2.00O8(OH1.70O0.30)2.00 [hingganite-(Y)]. The MREE-rich monazites, xenotimes, and hingganite-(Y) precipitated in response to the alteration of primary uraninite, brannerite, and fluorapatite by low-temperature hydrothermal fluids of heterogeneous compositions on a microscale. These are responsible for the strong enrichment of individual MREE, especially Gd in the secondary minerals. This is accompanied by the advancing development of the W-type tetrad effect on REE through monazite species. The substantial incorporation of Gd into both REE-selective monazite and xenotime structures that are accompanied by LREE vs. HREE segregation indicates the possibility of differently sized REE3+ miscibility in REEPO4 solid solutions, as well as the stabilization of the Gd-rich orthophosphate structure by substitution of the remaining A-site cations with smaller HREE+Y in the xenotime-type, and/or larger LREE in the monazite-type structure.
Perceptual attitudes towards safety climate among employees of a manufacturing firm: A qualitative approach
Authors: Muzakkir Razali Abdullah , Mat Zin Razali , Ali Qaisar
Published: April 2022

Safety climate can be regarded as a summary of moral perceptions that employees share about their work environments. This study explores the attitude of employees (working on production sites) towards the safety climate of a manufacturing firm producing medical equipment located in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). The data were collected through an open-ended questionnaire from 30 employees working in the manufacturing section of Setia Tek Limited. All the responses from open-ended questionnaires were analyzed descriptively and interpretively simultaneously using a thematic content analysis method. The findings indicate that the overall perception of the majority (67%) of employees about safety climate is positive. The research findings further reveal that majority of employees share a common understanding of the significance of the managerial strategies in business operations. With regard to the contribution of dimensions to shaping safety climate perceptions, the analysis reveals that all nine dimensions (safety concept, risks associated with daily work, cause of accidents, safety policies, regulations, and procedures, balance productivity goals and safety goals, commitment of the upper management, commitment of the immediate supervisor/ manager, commitment of employees, adequate training and competency, disciplinary actions for safety violations, accident investigations) positively contribute to employees’ safety perceptions.
Papel do Psicólogo no Centro de Referência de Assistência Social
Authors: Emanuel Ferreira Cardoso Leonam , Ferreira Guimaraes Rodolfo , Barbosa da Silva Roberta
Published: April 2022

No Brasil, o Centro de Referência de Assistência Social (CRAS) é a unidade pública e gratuita responsável pela oferta de serviços de Proteção Social Básica do Sistema Único de Assistência Social (SUAS). É um serviço que atua mediante a intervenção de equipes multidisciplinares, voltado para o atendimento da população, especialmente nas áreas de maior vulnerabilidade e risco social, realizando atendimentos aos indivíduos e suas famílias. Frente a isto, considerando os múltiplos papéis desempenhados pelos Psicólogos, este artigo visa, sobretudo, abordar a estrutura do CRAS e elencar os papéis desempenhados por esses profissionais no âmbito desse dispositivo, na intervenção social, contextualizando sua relevância para o cumprimento do papel da Assistência Social no Brasil. Como metodologia, utilizou-se uma revisão bibliográfica, com consulta a fontes disponíveis nos meios eletrônicos, da literatura especializada no tema, visando um maior aprofundamento dos conhecimentos adquiridos durante o cumprimento do estágio supervisionado. Foi possível concluir que no CRAS o psicólogo desenvolve atividades que permitem estabelecer uma conexão entre os usuários, com seus conflitos, e o Estado, propiciando um espaço onde as demandas subjetivas podem emergir e, com elas, os conflitos podem ganhar uma dimensão mais ampla, possibilitando intervenções preventivas e disponibilizando procedimentos e encaminhamentos.
Is There a Relation between Hypothyroidism and Polycystic Ovary
Syndrome and its Metabolic Components?
Authors: Milani Nasrin , Bonakdaran Shokoufeh , Khorasani Zahra Mazloum , Hosseinzadeh Mansoore , Kabiri Mona
Published: April 2022

Objective:

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the incidence of hypothyroidism in PCOS patients compared with healthy control groups, as well as the impact of hypothyroidism on metabolic parameters, particularly insulin resistance, in PCOS patients.

Method:

Forty-one women with PCOS criteria and 41 healthy women as controls was selected. From March to November 2018, sick and healthy people were randomly. Participants' demographic information was gathered. Between the case and control groups, thyroid function tests were compared. Metabolic parameters were examined between hypothyroid and euthyroid PCOS individuals.

Results:

Patients with PCOS showed a greater incidence of hypothyroidism and higher level of anti-TPO than control group. HDL cholesterol was substantially greater in hypothyroid PCOS patients than in non-hypothyroid individuals, although there were no significant changes in other metabolic markers. Insulin resistance was comparable in PCOS patients with hypothyroidism and those who did not. Autoimmunity was not linked to a higher risk of metabolic problems.

Conclusion:

We found that PCOS patients had a higher prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism compared with healthy subjects. Metabolic indicators, with the exception of HDL, were not different between PCOS patients with and without hypothyroidism.