bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge and Attitude Toward Emergency Contraceptive Pills Among First-Year Undergraduate Students in Southern Thailand
Authors: Yongpraderm Siranee , Uitrakul Suriyon
Published: November 2021

Background: The objective of this study was to investigation of the knowledge and attitude towards emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) among first-year undergraduate students in a university in Thailand.Methods: This cross-sectional survey study was performed using the developed questionnaires that was validated by four experts. The questionnaires were distributed to all the first-year students in the university via an online platform. The characteristic data were descriptively analyzed and the knowledge data were analyzed using Chi-square test, Mann-Whitney U test and one-way ANOVA.Results: A total of 335 students who responded to the questionnaires and met the eligible criteria for the study was analyzed. The mean knowledge score of all respondents was 7.76±0.15 out of 15. The most correct-answered questions were the questions relating to efficacy and safety of ECPs in pregnant women (78.5% and 72.2% corrected, respectively). On the contrary, the least correct-answered questions were about the ECP regimens and using ECPs instead of combined oral contraception (COC) (30.4% and 34.9%, respectively). In addition, the results indicated that experience in using ECPs and in ECP education were significant factors in high scores of knowledge. Moreover, most respondents trusted and would like to receive the information on ECPs from health professionals in hospitals, academic institutions, or pharmacies.Discussion: The average knowledge of ECPs of first-year students in a university in Thailand was at a moderate level. More knowledge about the regimens of the drug and using ECPs instead of COC should be advised to students, particularly at the university or pharmacies, and should be done by healthcare staff.
N6-adenosine methylation of mRNAs requires Wtap expression and controls T cell receptor signaling and survival
Authors: Ito-Kureha Taku , Leoni Cristina , Borland Kayla , Bataclan Marian , Metzger Rebecca , Ammann Gregor , Krug Anne , Marsico Annalisa , Kellner Stefanie , Canzar Stefan , Feske Stefan , Monticelli Silvia , König Julian , Heissmeyer Vigo
Published: November 2021

T cell antigen receptor (TCR) signaling controls the development, activation and survival of T cells by involving several layers and numerous mechanisms of gene regulation. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent mRNA modification affecting splicing, translation and stability of transcripts. Here, we describe the Wtap protein as essential for m6A methyltransferase complex function and reveal its crucial role in TCR signaling. Wtap and m6A methyltransferase functions were required for the differentiation of thymocytes, control of activation-induced death of peripheral T cells and prevention of colitis by enabling gut RORγt+ regulatory T cell function. Transcriptome and epitranscriptomic analyses reveal that m6A modification destabilizes Orai1 and Ripk1 mRNAs. Lack of post-transcriptional repression of the encoded proteins correlated with increased store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) activity and diminished survival of T cells. These findings uncover how m6A modification impacts on TCR signal transduction and determines activation and survival of T cells.
Turing miRNA Into Infinite Coordination Supermolecule: A General and Enabling Nanoengineering Strategy for Resurrecting Nuclear Acid Therapeutics
Authors: Li Liya , He Wangxiao , You Weiming , Yan Jin , Liu Wenjia
Published: November 2021

Background
Clinical translation of therapeutic nuclear acid, particularly those targeting tumor progression, has been hampered by the intrinsic weaknesses of nuclear acid therapeutic including poor systemic stability, rapid clearance, low membrane permeability and lack of targeting ability. Small nuclear acid engineered into carrier-free nanodrugs with structural stability and disease targeting may be viable to overcome pharmaceutical obstacles of nuclear acid.
Methods
A general method through a mild and simple chemistry was established to convert therapeutic miRNA into an infinite Auric-sulfhydryl coordination supramolecular miRNA termed IacsRNA with near-spherical nanostructure, high colloid as well as anti-hydrolysis stability and low macrophage uptakes.
Results
IacsRNA presented the increased half-life period in circulation and accumulation at tumor sites in comparison to normal miRNA. Moreover, Iacs-miR-30c showed no toxicity of viscera and sanguis system in the 5-time injection dosage of the treatment. More importantly, Iacs-miR-30c potently suppressed the Wnt signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo, and effectively sensitized both potency of 5-Fu in PDX model of colon cancer and Anti-PD1 in B16F10 homograft model of melanoma.
Conclusion
Collectively, this work amply confirmed the design of IacsRNA as a general and viable strategy of nano-pharmaceutic to concert flimsy therapeutic miRNA into potential drugs. Considering from a broader perspective, the miRNA-initiated infinite coordination self-assembly strategy has distinct advantages in resurrecting nuclear acid therapeutics, probably bringing new inspiration to RNA-derived therapeutics of a great variety of human diseases including cancer.
Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of Preventive Potential of Aspirin for Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Han Wei , Zhang Yan , Sun Haitao , Ji Yu , Wang Rong
Published: November 2021

Objective: To further systematically understand the molecular mechanisms that aspirin prevents colon carcinogenesis.Methods: We detected the global protein expression profiles of colorectal cancer along with the treatment of aspirin by a quantitative proteomic approach. We analyzed the proteomic results using bioinformatics（including differential proteins, protein annotation, Kegg Pathways and protein-protein interaction network ）. Cell viability of HT29 cells treated with aspirin was determined by CCK8 assay. The expression of differential proteins p53 and CDK1 were quantified by real-time PCR and Western blot. We measured cell cycle distribution and cell apoptosis of H1299 cells exposed to aspirin by flow cytometric analysis. Results: We found 552 proteins that were significantly dysregulated after10mM aspirin treatment of colon cancer cells. Further enrichment analysis of the dysregulated proteins suggested that cell cycle-related proteins are the most differential proteins such as p53, CDK1, CyclinB, Chk1, Chk2 and CyclinD. The results of real-time PCR and Western blot showed that p53 and CDK1 obvious upregulation after aspirin exposed to colon cancer cells. We also detected that aspirin promoted the G1/S arrest of cell cycle in HT29 cells. We confirmed aspirin induced cell apoptosis in human HT29 colon cancer cells with concentration-dependent increase. Conclusions: The result indicated that aspirin induced colorectal cancer cells G1 arrest and cell apoptosis by p53-CDK1 pathway. Accordingly, aspirin may represent a promising preventive candidate for colon cancer.
SARS-COV2 Seroprevalence in a Cohort of Perinatally HIV Infected Children and Young Adults From May to December 2020 in Italy
Authors: Tumeo Chiara Casamento , Cotugno Nicola , Coltella Luana , Ranno Stefania , Piccioni Livia , Linardos Giulia , Colagrossi Luna , Concato Carlo , Perno Carlo Federico , Bernardi Stefania
Published: November 2021

SARS-CoV2 is a new coronavirus which started spreading in December 2019 from Wuhan, China. The seroprevalence of SARS-CoV2 antibodies allows to define a better picture of the spread of SARS-CoV2 infection in the population. The duration of SARS-CoV2 antibodies in the healthy population as well as in immunocompromised patients is still a topic of debate. HIV-infected people are at increased risk of developing complications from contracting a viral illness. Furthermore,their ability to develop and maintain an optimal immunological response to any kind of pathogen appears to be reduced.We analyzed the overall seroprevalence of SARS-CoV2 antibodies in 85 HIV infected-people on ART aged between 5 and 34 years old from May to January 2021. 88,2%of patients were in a good state of viroimmunological control: 23 showed a VL<40cp/ml and 52 had an undetectable VL. When positive for SARS-CoV2 serology, a confirmatory nasopharyngeal swab for PCR assessment and a second serological assay would be performed.Out of the 85 patients, 5 proved to be positive for SARS-CoV2 antibodies (rate of prevalence 5.8%). In all 5 cases the nasopharyngeal swabs were negative and the second assay for SARS-CoV2 antibodies performed in 4 out of 5 patients a week later was negative as well. The anamnestic recall brought no elements of suspicion for a past infection.The duration of SARS-CoV2 antibodies after COVID19 disease is still poorly understood in healthy population and additional studies will be needed to define the durability of humoral responses in immunocompromised children and in particular in HIV infected children under effective ART. It is still unknown whether ART or their immunological impairment may in part mitigate the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Also, it will be interesting to analyze the impact of vaccination against SARS-CoV2 in HIV infected patients with a satisfactory virological control.
Engineering of AAV-Mediated in Vivo Targeted DNA Methylation Editing System via Staphylococcus Aureus Derived Cas9-SunTag
Authors: Yamamoto Naoki , Morita Sumiyo , Hatada Izuho , Ideta-Otsuka Maky , Tamura Hideki , Narita Minoru , Igarashi Katsuhide
Published: November 2021

DNA methylation aberrations have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various psychiatric and developmental disease states. However, basic research and therapeutic in vivo applications targeting aberrant DNA methylation are still limited due to the lack of targeted DNA methylation editing systems that work on capacity-limited adeno-associated virus (AAV), a highly versatile in vivo gene delivery vector. Here, we report the engineering of AAV-based vector system for in vivo targeted DNA methylation/demethylation by integrating small Cas9 orthologues (SaCas9) and a dCas9-SunTag methodology. In this system, dSaCas9-SunTag targeting protein and anti-SunTag-mini-antibody (scFv) fused effector protein were packaged into different vectors for efficient in vivo delivery by AAV. We demonstrated that co-introduction of AAV vectors carrying dSaCas9-SunTag and scFv-fused Dnmt3A, Dnmt3L, or Dnmt3A-Dnmt3L fusion proteins induced robust DNA methylation on the Bdnf gene locus in a guide RNA dependent manner in vitro. The scFv-fused TET1 and TET2 successfully induced robust targeted DNA demethylation in the H19 ICR. We also constructed a doxycycline (Dox)-inducible target DNA methylation system utilizing dSaCas9-SunTag and scFv-Dnmt3AL. Finally, we showed that AAV-mediated delivery of dSaCas9-SunTag system induced DNA methylation on the Bdnf gene locus and suppressed activity-dependent but not basal Bdnf expression after contextual fear learning in the Hippocampus of adult mouse. Our in vivo targeted DNA methylation editing system can be a promising platform for understating the causal relationship between psychiatric disease and aberrant DNA modifications.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Technetium-99m-labeled pH (low) Insertion Peptide Variant 7 for Early Diagnosis of MDA-MB-231 Triple-Negative Breast Cancer by Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Chen YueHua , Su Yuan , Pang XuFeng , Song XiaoXia , Zhao WanJun , Yu MingMing
Published: November 2021

Objective To prepare technetium-99m (99mTc)-labeled pH (low) insertion peptide variant 7 (pHLIP(Var7)) and carry out imaging of tumor-bearing nude mice in vivo, to study its value in the early diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).Methods The pHLIP(Var7) sequence was synthesized by solid-phase polypeptide synthesis. Four amino acids, Gly-(D)-Ala-Gly-Gly, were attached to the N-terminus of pHLIP(Var7) to form a strong chelating group containing an N4 structure. The polypeptide was directly labeled with 99mTc to determine the in vitro binding propensity of 99mTc-pHLIP(Var7) to MDA-MB-231 cells, to measure the in vivo biodistribution of 99mTc-pHLIP(Var7) in tumor-bearing nude mice, and to perform small-animal single-photon-emission computed tomography (SPECT)/computed tomography (CT) of these mice.Results The radiochemical yield and radiochemical purity of 99mTc-pHLIP(Var7) were 99.49%±0.17% and 99.63±0.44%, respectively. The radiochemical purity was still more than 96% after 24 h in serum. The binding fraction of 99mTc-pHLIP(Var7) and MDA-MB-231 cells continuously increased in an acidic environment, being significantly higher than their cell binding fraction (P < 0.01) when pH = 7.4 and the cell binding fraction (P < 0.01) of 99mTc-kVar7 at different pH values (pH = 6.0, 6.5, 7.0 and 7.4) at each time point (P < 0.01). The biodistribution assay showed that the distribution of 99mTc-pHLIP(Var7) in tumors at each time point was significantly higher than that of 99mTc-kVar7 (P < 0.01). 99mTc-pHLIP(Var7) and 99mTc-kVar7 were also significantly distributed in the liver. SPECT/CT imaging was basically consistent with the biodistribution results. The tumor was clearly imaged at each time point after injection of 99mTc-pHLIP(Var7) but could not be imaged after injection of 99mTc-kVar7. The liver was clearly imaged at each time point in both groups.Conclusion 99mTc-pHLIP(Var7) has high radiochemical yield and stability, and it concentrates highly in tumor tissues. The presence of a very strong radioactive background in the abdomen of tumor-bearing nude mice does not preclude the early diagnosis of TNBC.
Precipitation Pattern Alters the Effects of Nitrogen Deposition on the Growth of Alien Species Robinia Pseudoacacia
Authors: Wang Xiao , Guo Xiao , Ding Wenli , Du Ning , Guo Weihua , Pang Jiayin
Published: November 2021

Aims
Nitrogen (N) supply and precipitation pattern (amount and frequency) both affect plant growth. However, N deposition is increasing and precipitation regimes are changing in the context of global change. An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of precipitation pattern and N supplies on the growth of a widely distributed and planted N2-fixing alien species Robinia pseudoacacia.
Methods
Seedlings were grown in a glasshouse at four different N levels combined with different precipitation regimes, including three precipitation amounts, and two precipitation frequencies. After treatment for 75 days, plant height, biomass allocation, leaf and soil nutrient concentrations were measured.
Results
Plants under high precipitation frequency had greater biomass compared with plants lower precipitation frequency with the same amount of precipitation. Higher N supply decreased biomass allocation to nodules. Nodule growth and N2 fixation of R. pseudoacacia with low precipitation amount was more inhibited by high N deposition compared with plants received higher precipitation amount. Slightly N deposition under higher precipitation inhibited N2 fixation but did not fulfil the N need in plants.
Conclusions
Nitrogen deposition might inhibit N2 fixation of plants even in low level but low nitrogen in soil cannot fulfil the N need of plants, and caused N2 fixation limitation in plants during seedling stage. There was likely a shift from acquiring N mainly from N2 fixation to acquisition of N directly with root when N supply was increased. High N deposition level, and increased precipitation frequency might increase the invasion risk of R. pseudoacacia.
Aquatic Toxicity Integrated Testing and Assessment Strategies (ITS) for Difficult Substances: Case Study With Thiochemicals
Authors: Nendza Monika , Ahlers Jan
Published: November 2021

Background An Integrated Testing and Assessment Strategy (ITS) for aquatic toxicity of 16 thiochemicals to be registered under REACH revealed 12 data gaps, which had to be filled by experimental data. These test results are now available and offer the unique opportunity to subject previous estimates obtained by read-across (analogue and category approaches) to an external validation. The case study thiochemicals are so-called difficult substances due to instability and poor water solubility, challenging established ITS. Results The new experimental data confirm the previous predictions of acute aquatic toxicity with the new test results indicating a 2-5 times lower toxicity than previously predicted. The previous predictions thus are conservative and closer to the experimental results than expected. The good agreement can be attributed to the fact that we had limited the extrapolations to narrow chemical groups with similar SH-group reactivities. The new experimental data further strengthen and externally validate the existing trends based on similarity in chemical structures, mode of action (MoA), water solubility and stability of source and target compounds in aquatic media. Based on the new experimental data, reliable revised PNECs could be derived and the REACH requirements for these thiochemicals are largely fulfilled. Appropriately adapted ITS are therefore able to reduce in vivo tests with fish even for difficult substances and replace them with alternative information. Conclusions Both experimental and alternative information for difficult substances such as thiochemicals that are rapidly transformed in water are subject to considerable uncertainty. For example, the use of nominal, initial or time-weighted average concentrations, contribute variability in the determination of aquatic toxicity. The use of nominal concentrations is likely to be the most appropriate choice as it reflects realistic worst-case environmental conditions in these cases. In general, uncertainties in (historical) test results and alternative information (read-across) must be considered in terms of how much uncertainty is acceptable for environmental protection on the one hand and how much certainty is technically feasible on the other.
The Study of Feasibility and Acceptability of using HIV Self-Tests in High-Risk Iranian Populations (FSWs, MSM, and TG Populations): A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Moradi Ghobad , Amini Elnaz Ezzati , Valipour Azam , Tayeri Katayoon , Kazerooni Parvin Afsar , Molaeipour Leila , Moradi Yousef
Published: November 2021

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using the HIV Self-Test in high-risk Iranian groups (MSM, FSWs, and TG people).Methods: This study was conducted in 2 main steps (the pre and post HIVST intervention and the qualitative method) between 1 October 2020 and 22 June 2021 in Tehran, Iran. The sample size needed for this study generally was 1000 people, including FSWs, MSM, and transgender individuals. The sampling method in this study was convenience sampling, while snowball sampling was used to complete the number of samples.Results: A total of 930 eligible respondents were enrolled in the study, of whom 456 (49%) were female, 49 (5.3%) were transgender (98% of TGs were male to female). The median age was 33.63 ±10.54 SD. The feasibility of the use of HIV self-tests in Iranian high-risk groups was significantly high. The majority of participants (97%) did not have any confidentiality problems while preparing or performing the test. In general, feasibility was assessed based on five questions. The overall feasibility score was 6.33 (0.824 SD). Taking tests, reading HIV test results, finding a safe place to do the test, and accessing HIV self-testing showed a high average. Conclusion: HIV self-testing was highly acceptable and feasible to permit routine HIV testing between high-risk populations efficiently.
Scenario Simulation of The Geohazard Dynamic Process of Large-Scale Landslides: A Case Study of The Xiaomojiu Landslide Along The Jinsha River
Authors: Zhuang Jianqi , Jia Kecheng , Zhan Jiewei , Zhu Yi , Zhang Chenglong , Kong Jiaxu , Du Chenhui , Wang Shibao , Cao Yanbo , Peng Jianbing
Published: November 2021

Large-scale landslides often cause severe damage due to their long run-out distances and having disaster chain effects. Scenario simulation has been adopted in the current work to analyze the Xiaomojiu landslide dynamic processes, such as sliding velocity, deposition characteristics, and flood outburst after a landslide-dam failure using Particle Flow Code (PFC-3D) which introduced the changeable friction coefficient and the HEC-RAS software. The landslide characteristics and topography data were obtained via field investigation, whereas high-resolution topographic data (0.17 m) was obtained using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The results showed that: 1. The landslide presents a scallop shape with a length of 1566 m, a width ranging from 809~1124 m, and an area of 1.34×106 m2. The average thickness and volume of the sliding body is approximately 40 m, 5.1×107 m3. The InSAR deformation analysis showed that the Xiaomojiu landslide has a maximum annual displacement rate of 60 mm/y, and a maximum accumulation deformation of 180 mm since November 25, 2017. 2. From the landslide simulation results, the failure process of the Xiaomojiu landslide lasted for 65 s with a maximum velocity of 78.2 m/s. The deposited area is approximately 2023 m long, 900 m wide, with a maximum height of approximately 149 m. 3. After the landslide blocks the Jinsha River, a landslide-dammed lake with an elevation of 2940 m and a storage capacity of 4.13×109 m3 is formed. The maximum peak flow rate of the breach is 12051.7 m3/s, 43451.4 m3/s, 148635.6 m3/s, and 304544.7 m3/s for the landslide-dammed failure degrees of 15%, 25%, 50%, and 75%, respectively. These results provide a scientific reference for the risk analysis and mitigation of the landslide.
The Role of Inclusion in Climate Vulnerability Assessment and Equitable Adaptation Goals in Small American Municipalities
Authors: Lioubimtseva Elena
Published: November 2021

Equity and inclusion considerations are important prerequisites of effective climate adaptation planning, especially at a local scale. This pilot study examines how climate adaptation plans of small American cities and counties consider equity in their climate vulnerability assessments and adaptation planning goals, and how consideration of equity in existing adaptation plans relates to inclusion of diverse categories of stakeholders. Data analysis is based on the content of 23 local climate adaptation plans of small urban and rural municipalities across the United States with population less than 300 thousand people. Correlations between conceptualization of vulnerability dimensions, inclusion of 9 categories of stakeholders, and consideration of equity in 12 different domains of adaptation planning are examined. The study concludes that municipalities, who examine their vulnerability beyond physical exposure to climate impacts and consider sensitivity and adaptive capacity of their populations, appear to be more attentive to social equity and more likely to offer specific adaptation measures focusing on vulnerable groups.
Performances of Clinical Characteristics and Radiological Findings in Identifying COVID- 19 From Suspected Cases
Authors: Li Xuanxuan , Zhao Yajing , Lu Yiping , Zheng Yingyan , Mei Nan , Han Qiuyue , Ruan Zhuoying , Xiao Anling , Qiu Xiaohui , Wang Dongdong , Yin Bo
Published: November 2021

Background: To identify effective factors and establish a model to distinguish COVID-19 patients from suspected cases.Methods: The clinical characteristics, laboratory results and initial chest CT findings of suspected COVID-19 patients in 3 institutions were retrospectively reviewed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed to identify significant features. A nomogram was constructed, with calibration validated internally and externally.Results: 239 patients from 2 institutions were enrolled in the primary cohort including 157 COVID-19 and 82 non-COVID-19 patients. 11 features were included for multivariate logistic regression analysis after LASSO selection. We found that the COVID-19 group are more likely to have fever (OR, 4.22), contact history (OR, 284.73), lower WBC count (OR, 0.63), left lower lobe involvement (OR, 9.42), multifocal lesions (OR, 8.98), pleual thickening (OR, 5.59), peripheral distribution (OR, 0.09), and less mediastinal lymphadenopathy (OR, 0.037). The nomogram developed accordingly for clinical practice showed satisfactory internal and external validation. Conclusions: In conclusion, fever, contact history, decreased WBC count, left lower lobe involvement, pleural thickening, multifocal lesions, peripheral distribution and absence of mediastinal lymphadenopathy are able to distinguish COVID-19 patients from other suspected patients. The corresponding nomogram is a useful tool in clinical practice.
Climate change alters impacts of extreme climate
events on a tropical perennial tree crop
Authors: Creedy Thomas , Asare Rebecca A. , Morel Alexandra C. , Hirons Mark , Malhi Yadvinder , Mason John J. , McDermott Constance , Opoku Emmanuel , Norris Ken
Published: November 2021

Anthropogenic climate change causes more frequent and intense fluctuations in the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Understanding the effects of ENSO on agricultural systems is crucial for predicting and ameliorating impacts on lives and livelihoods, particularly in perennial tree crops, which may show both instantaneous and delayed responses. Using cocoa production in Ghana as a model system, here we show that in recent times, El Niño years experience reductions in cocoa production followed by several years of increased production, a significantly different pattern than prior to the 1980s. ENSO phase affects the climate in Ghana, and over the same time period, we see concomitant significant shifts in the climatic conditions resulting from ENSO extremes, with increasing temperature and water stress. Our results illustrate the big data analyses necessary to improve understanding of perennial crop responses to climate change in general, and climate extremes in particular.
Short communication: Potential causes of Acaricide Resistance in Rhipicephalus and Amblyomma Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) in Namwala District, Zambia
Authors: Sichibalo Karen , Changula Katendi , Mumba Chisoni , Mwila Natasha , Mubemba Benjamin , Nalubamba King S. , Muleya Walter , Simulundu Edgar , Chitanga Simbarashe
Published: November 2021

Acaricide resistance in ticks poses a great threat to livestock production in many parts of the world where ticks are a problem. The objectives of this study were to screen for acaricide resistance in Rhipicephalus and Amblyomma ticks using phenotypic and molecular assays, and to assess current tick control practices used by cattle farmers in the traditional sector of Namwala District. The larval packet test was used to screen for acaricide resistance in ticks covering concentrations up to twice the discriminatory dose for amitraz, diazinon and cypermethrin. Genetic mutations associated with resistance to amitraz (A22C-T8P and T65C-L22S), and organophosphates/ pyrethroids (G1120A) were screened using polymerase chain reaction and sequencing. Information on tick control practices at the household level was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Intermediate resistance (21-50%) to amitraz and cypermethrin was detected in both Rhipicephalus and Amblyomma ticks, with both tick genera showing susceptibility to diazinon (<10%). None of the ticks in this study had the reported acaricide resistance-conferring molecular markers that were screened for. The findings suggest that the resistance detected in the studied tick population may be due to other mechanisms that are yet to be identified. Tick control practices observed amongst the farmers, such as incorrect use of acaricide concentrations and rotations could be fuelling the development of acaricide resistance. It is critical to comprehensively unravel the factors that could be contributing to acaricide treatment failure as this would allow for application of appropriate remedial actions for effective tick control in Zambia.
The Association Between Abstinence Period And Semen Parameters: Results In Normal Samples And Different Sperm Pathology
Authors: Xie Min , Haemmerli Silvan , Blickenstorfer Kerstin , Leeners Brigitte
Published: November 2021

Purpose: The length of sexual abstinence seems to influence sperm quality. However, few data on the relevance of abstinence time in pathological sperm samples are available. With our study, we look for associations of abstinence length and semen quality. Methods: We studied semen samples from 4423 men undergoing fertility evaluation. Sperm concentration, percentage of progressively motile spermatozoa, total motile sperm count, percentage of spermatozoa with normal morphology, were compared after each day and 0-2, 3-7 and >7 days of abstinence.Results: We found that a longer abstinence time was related to higher sperm concentration in normal semen samples (P<0.001) and in semen samples with any sperm pathology (P<0.001, P=0.004) with the exception of oligozoospermia (P=0.125). Longer abstinence time was also associated with significantly reduced progressive motility in normal samples (P<0.001) and in cases of teratozoospermia (P<0.001). In normal samples a higher percentage of sperm were morphologically normal after a shorter abstinence period (P=0.03); in oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) samples, this was the case after a longer abstinence period (P=0.013).Conclusion: A longer abstinence time is associated with higher sperm concentration, whereas sperm motility is optimal after shorter abstinence times; results on morphology are controversial. The recommendation on abstinence time needs to be adjusted in relation to the parameter that needs to be improved.
A Preliminary Attempt on Decadal Prediction of the East Asian Summer Monsoon
Authors: Qian Danwei , Huang Yanyan , Wang Huijun
Published: November 2021

The East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) is one of the major synoptic systems that affect the summer climate in China. Decadal prediction of the EASM is of great significance, yet few attempts have been made by far. This study represents a preliminary attempt that uses the decadal increment (DI) method to predict the decadal variability of the EASM. The 3-year increment of the decadal variability is used as the predictand, and predictors are selected from the previous circulation and external forcing. The predicted increment is combined with the observation three years ago to get the final prediction result. The results of cross validation and independent hindcast show that the decadal increment method can well predict decadal variability of the EASM during the recent century. In particular, the decadal regime shifts of the EASM are accurately captured. The decadal variability of the EASM in 2021 is further predicted with two previous predictors of the leading 4-year summer DI of the South Indian Ocean and the DI of the East Siberian Sea sea ice cover. The real-time prediction results show that the chance for the occurrence of strong decadal EASM would be rare in 2021 and 2022. The method developed in the present study provides a new approach for decadal prediction of the EASM.
Intersectionality of Age And Air Pollution On The Use of Medical Care: National Data From Taiwan
Authors: Chang Hung-Chieh , Hsu Li-Ling , Shih Wei-Liang
Published: November 2021

This study uses an intersectionality lens to understand the inequality of medical use at the intersection of age and air pollution. Using national databases from Taiwan, the results show that the increase of the level of air pollution and age is related to higher percentage of high medical use. Through stratified analysis, we found that there is no significant difference in medical use among different age groups in low AQI (Air Quality Index) areas, Yet, in areas with increasing amounts of polluted air, the elderly have a significantly higher percentage in frequent medical use. Our results show that the elderly people are more susceptible to air pollution, and suggest that, to protect their health and reduce the use of medical care, not only is there a need to reduce air pollution, but also maintain the annual average AQI level to under the value of 50.
BLACK SWAN DOWN: BRITAIN’S ROMAN PAST AND A NEW BARBARITY
Authors: Барышников А.Е.
Published: November 2021

В центре статьи — интернет-скандал, вызванный образовательным мультфильмом о жизни в римской Британии, подготовленным по заказу BBC. Бурное обсуждение цвета кожи главных героев, начатое консервативным публицистом Полом Уотсоном, довольно быстро переросло в своеобразное столкновение в общественном дискурсе двух образов Рима и его наследия: мультикультурного, противоречивого, глобалистского мира и цивилизованной империи белых людей, несущих свет культуры диким варварам. В этом столкновении, как представляется автору статьи, ярко проявляет себя «новое варварство», невежественное с точки зрения современной науки и оперирующее историческими стереотипами. Его характерная черта — попытка присвоить себе наследие римской цивилизации (и шире — всю Античность), чтобы оправдать несправедливость и неравенство современного общества. Это, в свою очередь, вызывает резкую реакцию со стороны западного (не только британского) академического сообщества, которое активно борется за гегемонию в общественном дискурсе. Таким образом, Рим (а точнее — образ римской цивилизации) оказывается одновременно триггером появления варварства и способом его преодоления.

A paper is focused on the twitter storm started because of the BBC educational cartoon about life in Roman Britain. The heated debate was provoked by the issue of the skin color of main character of the cartoon, but soon the discussion transformed into a collision between two images of Rome and her legacy. One image depicts Rome as a multicultural, complex, globalized world, another — as a civilized empire of white people who bring the torch of culture to savage barbarians. This collision makes ‘a new barbarity’, ignorant and armed with stereotypes, visible. One of the specific features of this barbarity is that it tries to seize the legacy of Roman civilization (and of all Classical world) and use it to justify injustice and inequality of modern society. It provokes a reaction from western (not British exclusively) academic community, actively fighting for the hegemony over the public discourse. Therefore, an image of Roman civilization becomes a trigger for the appearance of the barbarism as well as the way to overcome this barbarism.
MARKERS IN THE SYSTEM OF ANALYSIS OF MODERN BARBARITY
Authors: БУДАНОВ А.В.
Published: November 2021

В статье обосновывается необходимость введения термина маркер варварства в понятийный аппарат варваристики. Дается определение маркера варварства как факта, ставящего вопрос о существовании варварства или наиболее наглядно показывающего его наличие и особенности его имеющегося состояния. Рассматривается роль и место маркера варварства в системе понятий варваристики. Определяются перспективы использования маркера при анализе современного варварства. Особо анализируется вопрос о маркерах латентного варварства. Предложен алгоритм анализа — является данный факт маркером имеющейся тенденции, явления, носящих варварский характер, или нет. Раскрывается особая роль триггеров в системе анализа подобных фактов.

The article substantiates the necessity of introducing the term marker of barbarity into the conceptual apparatus of barbaristics. The definition of the marker of barbarity is given as a fact, that raises the question of the existence of barbarity or most clearly shows its presence and the features of its existing state. The role and place of the marker of barbarity in the system of concepts of barbaristics is considered. The prospects of using the marker in the analysis of the modern barbarity are determined. The question of markers of latent barbarity is particularly analyzed. An algorithm for analyzing whether this fact is a marker of an existing trend, a phenomenon of a barbaric nature, or not is proposed. The special role of triggers in the similar facts analysis system is revealed.
FACTORS OF «BARBARIZATION» OF THE INSTITUTION OF MONARCHY IN OSTROGOTHIC SOCIETY IN THE FIRST HALF OF 6TH CENTURY
Authors: САННИКОВ С.В.
Published: November 2021

Целью статьи является выявление и анализ факторов, способствовавших актуализации характерных для состояния «варварства» социальных практик, сопровождавших адаптивные эволюционные изменения остготского общества в условиях кризиса идентичности в первой половине VI столетия. В качестве таких факторов рассматривается дуализм унаследованной римской государственной модели и этнического принципа формирования политической элиты остготского королевства, стремившейся к сохранению культурной и политической автономии; кризис самой римской модели управления (необходимо учитывать, что формально Теодорих Амал правил в качестве римского наместника, хотя статус его королевства и порядок передачи власти в нем не был определен) и сопряженный с этим противоречивый характер публично-правовой системы, отраженный в эдикте Теодориха; кризис германской модели управления, связанной с эрозией габитуса и социальных практик остготской военной аристократии рассматриваемого периода; наконец конфессиональный кризис, связанный с системными противоречиями между арианскими и ортодоксальнымии церковными институтами, что препятствовало возможности проведения соборов для легитимации власти. В качестве основного триггера обращения остготской элиты к «варварскому» наследию рассматривается война с Византией, повлекшая общий упадок экономики и общественных связей в Италии.

The purpose of this article is to identify and analyze the factors that contributed to the actualization of the social practices belonging to the state of «barbarism» that accompanied the adaptive evolutionary changes of the Ostrogothic society in the context of the identity crisis in the first half of the 6th century. As such factors, the author considers the dualism of the inherited Roman state model and the ethnic principle of the formation of the political elite of the Ostrogothic kingdom, striving to preserve cultural and political autonomy; the crisis of the Roman model of government itself (formally Theodoric Amal ruled as a Roman governor, although the status of his kingdom and the procedure for transferring power in it was not determined) and the associated contradictory nature of the public law system, reflected in Theodoric's edict; the crisis of the Germanic model of leadership associated with the erosion of the habitus and social practices of the Ostrogothic military aristocracy of the period under review; finally, a confessional crisis associated with systemic contradictions between the Arian and Orthodox and ecclesiastical institutions, which hindered the possibility of holding councils to legitimize power. The war with Byzantium, which led to a general decline in the economy and public relations in Italy, is considered as the main trigger for the appeal of the Ostrogothic elite to the «barbarian» heritage.
THE BAPTISM OF CLOVIS AS A SOCIOCULTURAL TRIGGER FOR THE MEROVINGIAN POLITICS
Authors: САЗОНОВА А.А.
Published: November 2021

В статье исследуется расхождение между modus vivendi меровингских королей и нормами светских и церковных законов в области внутрисемейных и брачных отношений в VI веке в условиях подчинения идеологической сферы церковному институту. Крещение Хлодвига и христианизация франкского общества были пристрастно изображены Григорием Турским в его труде с многочисленными умолчаниями и искажениями. Выдвигается гипотеза о связи умолчания в «Истории франков» о дате крещения Хлодвига с регентским правлением Хродехильды при несовершеннолетних сыновьях. За брачными одеждами запрещенных союзов (с вдовой брата и сестрой жены, с мачехой и близкой родственницей) у Меровингов скрывались политические заговоры (дело Претекстата, обвинение Григория Турского в клевете на Фредегонду) и ожесточенная борьба за власть. Предлагаются новые интерпретации спорных исторических событий.

The article examines the discrepancy between the modus vivendi of the Merovingian kings and the norms of secular and ecclesiastical laws in the field of family and marital relations in the sixth century in the conditions of subordination of the ideological sphere to the church institution. Gregory of Tours represented with prejudice the Christianization of Frankish society in his historical work with numerous eliminations and distortions. My hypothesis discloses the connection between the concealment about the date of Clovis’s baptism in the Decem Libri Historiarum and Clothild’s regency with minor sons. Behind the wedding clothes of incestuous marriages (including brother’s widow, wife’s sister, stepmother, cousin) the Merovingians were hiding political conspiracies (the trial of Bishop Praetextatus, the accusation of Gregory of Tours the spreading rumours about Fredegund) and a fierce struggle for power. New interpretations of controversial historical events are proposed.
KARL KERÉNYI ON THE ARCHETYPE OF THE ACADEMIC AND THE PRIEST
Authors: ПЕТРОВ В.В.
Published: November 2021

В статье обсуждается эссе Карла Кереньи «Religio academici» (1938), которое интерпретируется в надлежащем историко-философском и культурном контексте. Рассматриваются высказанные в этом эссе филологические установки и философские воззрения Кереньи. Особое внимание уделяется тому, каким образом Кереньи истолковывает понятие religio: используя «Учение академиков» и «О природе богов» Цицерона, он пытается истолковать religio эпохи Цицерона в духе скептической Академии и на примере понтифика Гая Аврелия Котты доказывает, что поведенческие характеристики ученого и жреца совпадают. Обращено внимание на то, что академики Котта и Цицерон признают существование богов, в чем схожи с Аркесилаем и Карнеадом, которые полемизировали только с theologia naturalis и rationalis стоиков, тогда как транслируемая традицией религия сомнению не подвергалась. Обсуждается термин «открытость» (das Offene), используемый Кереньи. Указывается, что некоторые положения Кереньи предвосхищают позднейшие высказывания Хайдеггера в статье «Нужны ли поэты?» (1946), посвященной Рильке и Гёльдерлину, что может быть связано с общим источником — опубликованными письмами Рильке. В заключение указано, что сопоставления модусов существования академического ученого и религиозного жреца, которые на первый взгляд могут показаться экстравагантными и произвольными, в полной мере задействованы современными историками науки.

The article discusses Karl Kerényi’s essay “Religio academici” (1938), which is interpreted in a proper historical, philosophical and cultural context. The philological attitudes and philosophical views of Kerényi expressed in this essay are considered. Particular attention is paid to how Kerényi interprets the concept of religio: using Cicero’s “Academica priora” and “De natura deorum”, he tries to interpret religio of the Cicero era in the spirit of the skeptical Academy and, using the example of the Roman ponifex and Academic Sceptic Gaius Aurelius Cotta, proves that the behavioral characteristics of an academic and a priest coincide. Attention is drawn to the fact that Academics Cotta and Cicero recognize the existence of gods, in which they are similar to Arcesilaus and Carneades, who polemicized only with the theologia naturalis and rationalis of the Stoics, while the religion transmitted by tradition was not questioned. The term “openness” (das Offene) used by Kerényi is discussed. It is pointed out that some of Kerényi’s propositions anticipate the later statements of Heidegger in the article “Wozu Dichter?” (1946) dedicated to Rilke and Hölderlin, which can be explained by the presence of a common source — Rilke’s published letters. In conclusion, it is indicated that the comparisons made between the modes of existence of an academic and a priest, which at first glance may seem extravagant and arbitrary, are engaged by contemporary historians of science.
OVERCOME AND UNAVOIDABLE BARBARISM: DISCIPLINE OF THE MACEDONIAN INFANTRY IN THE AGE OF PHILIP II AND ALEXANDER THE GREAT
Authors: КЛЕЙМЕНОВ А.А.
Published: November 2021

Цель исследования заключается в анализе дисциплинированности македонской пехоты эпохи великих завоеваний IV в. до н.э. Задачами являются рассмотрение мероприятий Филиппа II, направленных на повышение дисциплины в македонской армии, определение их эффективности, выявление сути дисциплинарных проблем, характерных для фалангитов времен Филиппа и Александра. Исследование опиралось на всесторонний анализ античных письменных источников, сравнительно-исторический метод, метод контент-анализа. Определено, что традиционно для пешего ополчения царства Аргеадов, как и для аналогичного компонента вооруженных сил соседних «варварских» народов, была свойственна низкая дисциплинированность. Посредством интенсивных тренировок, введения системы поощрений и взысканий Филиппу II удалось привить македонским пехотинцам дисциплину, высокий уровень которой был продемонстрирован в войнах за господство на Балканском полуострове, а затем подтвержден в период Восточного похода Александра. Базисом дисциплинарных мотивов фалангитов следует считать выгоды от принадлежности к царской армии и сформировавшуюся корпоративную идентичность. Тем не менее, большое военное значение корпуса македонских пехотинцев и его сплоченность сделали возможными и массовые выступления, в ходе которых воины открыто протестовали против военно-стратегических и политико-административных решений монарха, не соответствующих интересам войска.

The main aim of this research is the analysis of the Macedonian infantry discipline in the period of the great conquests of 4th century BC. The research objectives are the review of Philip’s II actions to improve the Macedonian army discipline, the determining their effectiveness, the identifying the essence of disciplinary problems which are connected with the phalangites of Phillips and Alexander’s times. A multi-faceted approach to the ancient narrative sources, methods of comparative historical analysis and content analysis have been used. It defends that traditionally for infantry militia of the Argead Kingdomas well as for a similar component of the neighboring barbarian societies’ armed forces the law discipline was typical. Through intensive training, the introduction of a system of rewards and penalties, Philip II managed to instill for the Macedonian infantry discipline which high level was demonstrated in wars of domination in Balkan Peninsula and confirmed during the Alexander's Asian expedition. The phalangites’disciplinary motives were based on benefits of belonging to the royal army and an established corporate identity. However, the great military importance of the Macedonian infantry and their unity made possible mass demonstrations, during which the military protested against the military–strategic and political–administrative decisions of the monarch, which did not correspond to the interests of the army.
CIMBRI AND TEUTONS OR «THE FIRST GREAT MIGRATION»
Authors: ГУСАКОВ М.Г.
Published: November 2021

Статья посвящена одному событию в древней истории, которое много раз исследовалось и комментировалось, когда германские племена кимвры и тевтоны осуществили многолетнее перемещение в пространстве Центральной Европы, которое можно назвать «первым переселением народов». Они были разгромлены Римом, но это событие вызвало мощное движение других племен, особенно в сторону Восточной Европы, где образовалось много новых археологических культур. Среди них особое значение имеет зарубинецкая культура и её роль в истории Восточной Европы.

The article is devoted to an event in ancient history, which has been studied and commented on many times, when the Germanic tribes of the Cimbri and Teutons carried out a long-term movement in the space of Central Europe, which can be called the “first migration of peoples”. They were defeated by Rome, but this event caused a powerful movement of other tribes, especially towards Eastern Europe, where many new archaeological cultures were formed. Among them, a special place is occupied by the Zarubinets culture and its place in the history of Eastern Europe.