bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extra-pair paternity, breeding density and synchrony in natural cavities versus nestboxes in two passerine birds
Authors: Di Lecce Irene , Perrier Charles , Szulkin Marta , Sudyka Joanna
Published: February 2023

Most of what is known about extra-pair paternity in hole-nesting birds derives from studies using artificial nesting sites, such as nestboxes. However, it has rarely been investigated whether inference drawn from breeding events taking place in nestboxes matches what would be observed under natural conditions, i.e. in natural cavities. We here report on a variation in promiscuity in blue tits and great tits nesting in natural cavities and nestboxes in an urban forest in Warsaw, Poland. Specifically, we tested whether breeding density, breeding synchrony and extra-pair paternity (inferred from SNP data generated with a high-throughput genotyping by sequencing method) differed between birds nesting in natural cavities and nestboxes. In both blue and great tits, the frequency of extra-pair paternity was similar between the two cavity types. Breeding density and synchrony was higher in nestboxes than in natural cavities in blue tits, but not in great tits. Moreover, the occurrence of extra-pair paternity in the nest in great tits increased with the number of neighbours and the number of synchronously breeding neighbours within a 120 m radius from the focal nest, regardless of cavity type. In blue tits, the proportion of extra-pair offspring per nest increased with neighbour density within 160 m of the focal nest, both in natural cavities and nestboxes. Our results indicate that providing nestboxes can alter the distribution of individuals in space and time, which potentially influences mating outcomes among breeders outside the social bond. Whilst these parameters should be carefully considered when comparing studies and/or sites, we highlight that conclusions drawn from nestbox studies on natural variation in extra-pair matings might be adequate in some species, and/or sites, but not in others.
Nature exposure and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: A Navigation Guide systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Patwary Muhammad Mainuddin , Bardhan Mondira , Disha Asma Safia , Dzhambov Angel M. , Parkinson Colby , Browning Matthew , Labib S M , Larson Lincoln R , Haque Md Zahidul , Rahman Md Atiqur , Alam Md Ashraful , Tareq Md Faysal , Shuvo Faysal Kabir
Published: February 2023

Previous reviews concluded that nature contact was an important coping strategy against poor mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the quality of evidence in these reviews was not sufficiently documented in terms of the risk of bias in reviewed studies. We attempted to fill this gap with a Navigation Guide systematic review and meta-analyses on the associations between nature exposure and mental health during the pandemic. Searches in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, and PsycInfo retrieved relevant articles published between January 1, 2020, and April 30, 2022. Included studies reported observational findings from human participants with indoor or outdoor nature exposure and measures of mental health. We used the Navigation Guide methodology to assess the risk of bias and quality of evidence across the body of evidence for each mental health outcome. A total of 4,464 articles were initially identified. After the screening, 59 were ultimately included. Studies reported diverse variables of nature availability, green space visit frequency, green space accessibility, and green space type (e.g., indoor vs. outdoor) with 12 mental health outcomes. Meta-analyses found access to gardens was associated with lower odds of depression (OR=0.71, 95% CI=0.61-0.82, I2=0%, n=3) and anxiety (OR=0.73, 95% CI=0.63-0.84, I2=0%, n=2). Higher frequency of visits to greenspace during the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with improved mental well-being (OR=0.10, 95% CI=0.07-0.14, I2=0%, n=2) and general mental health (OR=0.11, 95% CI=0.03-0.38, I2=82%, n=2). The quality of evidence was “very low” for all outcomes, and high levels of bias and between-study heterogeneity were observed in the studies of nature exposure and mental health (41% of studies had high, 24% probably high, and 35% had a low risk of bias). Nonetheless, given trends observed in the results, nature-based infrastructure that emphasizes exposure to nearby nature may have promoted psychological resilience during this public health crisis.
Sistem Informasi Pengelolaan Data Admin pada Praktek Umum Dokter Berbasis Java
Authors: Fitriani Ida
Published: February 2023

Praktek Umum Dr. Haddy Prasetio adalah penyedia layanan kesehatan yang memberikan pelayanan kepada masyarakat, termasuk memberikan pelayanan kepada pasien. Berdasarkan hasil analisis yang dilakukan di Klinik Keluarga Dr. Haddy Prasetio, Saat ini pengolahan data pasien, data obat, dan laporan pemeriksaan masih dilakukan dengan menggunakan buku catatan yang berisiko rusak dan rawan hilang. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode FOD (Flow Of Document) untuk membuat poin-poinnya. Metode ini memungkinkan penulis untuk berpindah dari satu titik ke titik lain dengan lancar, yang membantu membuat argumen lebih persuasif. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui studi lapangan yang meliputi observasi, wawancara, dan studi pustaka lainnya. Aplikasi Sistem Informasi Klinik diprogram dalam Java dan menggunakan MySQL sebagai database-nya. Untuk mengembangkan sistem, peneliti menggunakan model System Development Life Cycle (SDLC), dengan model waterfall, dan menggunakan bahasa pemodelan DFD (Data Flow Diagram). Sistem ini membantu untuk membuat kebijakan pengolahan data untuk pasien dan mengurangi kemungkinan kesalahan input saat menyajikan informasi dalam laporan. Studi ini menemukan bahwa lebih mudah bagi karyawan untuk memproses data pasien ini karena kemudahan yang diberikannya.
Integrated Use of Phosphatic Fertilizer and Farm Manure on Soil Physical Properties and Maize Yield
Authors: Saboor Abdul , Iqbal Muhammad , Chaudry Usman K. , Shehzad Haroon
Published: February 2023

Soil fertility, one of the important determinants of agricultural productivity, is generally thought to be supplemented through the application of nutrients mainly through inorganic fertilizers and organic amendments. The physical health of the soil creating suitable environment for the availability and uptake of these nutrients is generally ignored. The present study was aims to characterize the soil physical environment in relation to integrated application of farm manure (FM) and inorganic fertilizer in hybrid maize (Zea mays L.). A Field experiment was conducted at Research Area of Institute of Soil Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad to evaluate the impact of different levels of DAP fertilizer @ 70:80:90 kg ha-1 in combination with FM @ 0, 5, 10 Mg ha-1 to check the soil physical properties as well as yield of hybrid maize. The experimental design was RCBD under factorial structure with 9 treatments replicated thrice. Crop was harvested at maturity and taking observations like physical parameters (Bulk density, porosity, infiltration rate, field saturated hydraulic conductivity, soil strength) and yield parameters (1000 grain weight, plant height, total grain yield) following standard procedures. Results showed that integrated use of farm manure and phosphorus rates significantly affect the plant height, grain yield of maize. Farm maure and phosphorus levels also increased soil porosity and soil hydraulic conductivity. But it reduced the soil bulk density and soil strength. So to improve soil physical properties, to gain substantial yield of maize phosphorus rates applied in a planned manner rather than excessive use and effects of farm manure should also be kept under consideration.
Horse Purslane (Trianthema portulacastrum L.) Interference on Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.)
Authors: Mubeen Khuram , Sarwar Naeem , Wasaaya Allah , Yasir Tauqir A. , Farooq Omer , Amir Hafiz M. , Ghaffar Abdul , Ikram Rao M. , Aziz Mudassir , Shehzad Muhammad , Khaliq Abdul , Ahmad Wazir , Raza Hassan
Published: February 2023

A field study was conducted to evaluate the effect of horse purslane on mungbean productivity at the research farm of MNS-University of Agriculture Multan during Kharif season of 2018. For this purpose, 10 experimental treatments including T1 (weed free for the whole season), T2 (horse purslane free for 20 days after emergence, DAE), T3 (horse purslane free for 40 DAE),  T4 (horse purslane free for 60 DAE), T5 (all weeds free for 20 DAE), T6 (all weeds free for 40 DAE), T7 (all weeds free for 60 DAE), T8 (weedy check with all weeds), T9 (weedy check except horse purslane) and T10 (weedy check containing only horse purslane) were used. The experiment was carried out under RCBD (Randomized complete block design) and replicated thrice. Data was recorded for different growth and yield related traits of mungbean by using standard procedures. Data recorded were statistically analyzed and treatment means were compared by using Tuckey’s test @ 5% probability level. Results showed that maximum number of grains per pod (10.66), number of pods plant-1 (28.00), 1000 grain weight (68.40 g), grain yield (1.9 t ha-1) were noticed in the plots which were kept weed free. Hence it may be concluded that for maximum yield, farmers should control horse purslane at early stage of the crop.
Construction and application of the genome-scale metabolic model of Streptomyces radiopugnans
Authors: Zhang Zhidong , Guo Qi , Qian Jinyi , Ye Chao , Huang He
Published: February 2023

Geosmin is one of the most common earthy-musty odor compounds, which is mainly produced by Streptomyces. Streptomyces radiopugnans was screened in radiation-polluted soil, which has the potential to overproduce geosmin. However, due to the complex cellular metabolism and regulation mechanism, the phenotypes of S. radiopugnans were hard to investigate. A genome-scale metabolic model of S. radiopugnans named iZDZ767 was constructed. Model iZDZ767 involved 1,411 reactions, 1,399 metabolites, and 767 genes; its gene coverage was 14.1%. Model iZDZ767 could grow on 23 carbon sources and five nitrogen sources, which achieved 82.1% and 83.3% prediction accuracy, respectively. For the essential gene prediction, the accuracy was 97.6%. According to the simulation of model iZDZ767, D-glucose and urea were the best for geosmin fermentation. The culture condition optimization experiments proved that with D-glucose as the carbon source and urea as the nitrogen source (4 g/L), geosmin production could reach 581.6 ng/L. Using the OptForce algorithm, 29 genes were identified as the targets of metabolic engineering modification. With the help of model iZDZ767, the phenotypes of S. radiopugnans could be well resolved. The key targets for geosmin overproduction could also be identified efficiently.
Integrated radiochemotherapy study of ZIF-8 coated with osteosarcoma-platelet hybrid membranes for the delivery of Dbait and Adriamycin
Authors: Du Longhai , Zhu Guanghao , Xu Yanlong , Han Binxu , Wang Yu , Zhu Minhui , Meng Yingdi , Chen Huaiwen , Yu Zuochong
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The toxic side effects of systemic high-dose chemotherapy and poor sensitivity to radiotherapy hinder the survival rate of patients with osteosarcoma (OS). Nanotechnology offers new solutions for OS treatment; however, conventional nanocarriers suffer from inadequate targeting of tumors and short in vivo circulation time.

Methods: Here, we designed a novel drug delivery system, [Dbait-ADM@ZIF-8]OPM, which uses OS-platelet hybrid membranes to encapsulate nanocarriers, to enhance the targeting and circulation time of nanocarriers, thereby enabling high enrichment of the nanocarriers in OS sites.

Results: In the tumor microenvironment, the pH-sensitive nanocarrier, which is the metal-organic framework ZIF-8, dissociates to release radiosensitizer Dbait and the classical chemotherapeutic agent Adriamycin for the integrated treatment of OS via radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Benefiting from the excellent targeting ability of the hybrid membrane and the outstanding drug loading capacity of the nanocarrier, [Dbait-ADM@ZIF-8]OPM showed potent anti-tumor effects in tumor-bearing mice with almost no significant biotoxicity.

Conclusion: Overall, this project is a successful exploration of the combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy of OS treatment. Our findings solve the problems of the insensitivity of OS to radiotherapy and the toxic side effects of chemotherapy. Furthermore, this study is an expansion of the research of OS nanocarriers and provides new potential treatments for OS.
Clinical application of the modified posterolateral approach for treating posterior tibial plateau fractures
Authors: Shuaishuai Wang , Minglei Zhang , Yue Yu , Dapeng Wang , Tongtong Zhu , Huimin Liu
Published: February 2023

Objective: To investigate the therapeutic efficacy of the modified posterolateral approach on tibial plateau fractures.

Methods: Forty-four patients with tibial plateau fractures were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups—control and observation—according to the different surgical procedures. The control group underwent fracture reduction via the conventional lateral approach, while the observation group underwent fracture reduction via the modified posterolateral strategy. The depth of tibial plateau collapse, active mobility, and the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score and Lysholm score of the knee joint at 12 months after surgery were assessed in comparison to the two groups.

Results: The amount of blood loss (p < 0.01), duration of surgery (p < 0.05), and depth of tibial plateau collapse (p < 0.001) were significantly less in the observation group compared with the control group. In addition, compared with the control group, the observation group exhibited significantly better knee flexion and extension function and significantly higher HSS and Lysholm scores at 12 months after surgery (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The modified posterolateral approach for posterior tibial plateau fractures has less intraoperative bleeding and a shorter operative time compared with the conventional lateral approach. It also effectively prevents postoperative tibial plateau joint surface loss and collapse, promotes the recovery of knee function, and has few postoperative complications and good clinical efficacy. Thus, the modified approach is worth promoting in clinical practice.
Development of a quaternary ammonium poly (amidoamine) dendrimer-based drug carrier for the solubility enhancement and sustained release of furosemide
Authors: Murugan E. , Yogaraj V.
Published: February 2023

Furosemide (FRSD) is a loop diuretic that has been categorized as a class IV drug according to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS). It is used in the treatment of congestive heart failure and edema. Owing to low solubility and permeability, its oral bioavailability is very poor. In this study, two types of poly (amidoamine) dendrimer-based drug carriers (generation G2 and G3) were synthesized to increase the bioavailability of FRSD through solubility enhancement and sustained release. The developed dendrimers enhanced the solubility of FRSD 58- and 109-fold, respectively, compared with pure FRSD. In vitro studies demonstrated that the maximum time taken to release 95% of the drug from G2 and G3 was 420–510 min, respectively, whereas for pure FRSD the maximum time was only 90 min. Such a delayed release is strong evidence for sustained drug release. Cytotoxicity studies using Vero and HBL 100 cell lines through an MTT assay revealed increased cell viability, indicating reduced cytotoxicity and improved bioavailability. Therefore, the present dendrimer-based drug carriers are proven to be prominent, benign, biocompatible, and efficient for poorly soluble drugs, such as FRSD. Therefore, they could be convenient choices for real-time applications of drug delivery.
Effect of exposure to radiation caused by an atomic bomb on endothelial function in atomic bomb survivors
Authors: Kishimoto Shinji , Oda Nozomu , Maruhashi Tatsuya , Tanigawa Shunsuke , Mizobuchi Aya , Yusoff Farina Mohamad , Fujita Asuka , Uchiki Toshio , Kajikawa Masato , Yoshimura Kenichi , Yamaji Takayuki , Harada Takahiro , Hashimoto Yu , Nakano Yukiko , Hirota Seiko , Yoshinaga Shinji , Goto Chikara , Nakashima Ayumu , Higashi Yukihito
Published: February 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of exposure to radiation caused by an atomic bomb in atomic bomb survivors on vascular function and vascular structure and to evaluate the relationships of radiation dose from the atomic bomb with vascular function and vascular structure in atomic bomb survivors.

Methods

Flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) and nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation (NID) as indices of vascular function, brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) as an index of vascular function and vascular structure, and brachial artery intima-media thickness (IMT) as an index of vascular structure were measured in 131 atomic bomb survivors and 1,153 control subjects who were not exposed to the atomic bomb. Ten of the 131 atomic bomb survivors with estimated radiation dose in a cohort study of Atomic Bomb Survivors in Hiroshima were enrolled in the study to evaluate the relationships of radiation dose from the atomic bomb with vascular function and vascular structure.

Results

There was no significant difference in FMD, NID, baPWV, or brachial artery IMT between control subjects and atomic bomb survivors. After adjustment of confounding factors, there was still no significant difference in FMD, NID, baPWV, or brachial artery IMT between control subjects and atomic bomb survivors. Radiation dose from the atomic bomb was negatively correlated with FMD (ρ = −0.73, P = 0.02), whereas radiation dose was not correlated with NID, baPWV or brachial artery IMT.

Conclusion

There were no significant differences in vascular function and vascular structure between control subjects and atomic bomb survivors. Radiation dose from the atomic bomb might be negatively correlated with endothelial function.
Comparison of Madden-Julian oscillation in three super El Niño events
Authors: Li Lifeng , Chen Xiong , Li Chongyin , Li Xin , Yang Minghao
Published: February 2023

This paper investigated the characteristics of Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) in three super El Niño events (i.e., 1982/83, 1997/98 and 2015/16 El Niño events) based on reanalysis data. MJO with apparent eastward propagation can be observed during the developing stages of these three super El Niño events. Enhanced MJO zonal wind was observed over the western Pacific, especially in 1997/98 and 2015/16 El Niño events, which is mainly attributed to the effects of tropical background circulation and extratropical anomalous circulation. During the mature stages of 1982/83 and 1997/98 El Niño events, MJO with noticeable eastward propagation cannot be observed, and the MJO zonal wind amplitude at 850 hPa was weakened (enhanced) over the Indian Ocean and western Pacific (central and eastern Pacific). However, MJO zonal wind amplitude over the central and eastern Pacific was enhanced and the prominent eastward propagation was also found in the mature stage of 2015/16 El Niño. The eastward propagation of MJO was also observed during the decaying stages of the three super El Niño events, but its intensity was weaker compared with the developing and mature stages. The abnormal activity of MJO during the mature and decaying stages may be closely related to the characteristics in circulation and moisture anomalies caused by El Niño and the seasonal cycle of circulation and moisture. In addition, this study found that the RMM index and MJO zonal wind amplitude may lead to contradictory results in identifying the characteristics of MJO activity, especially during the developing and decaying stages.
Overpressure characteristics and geological origin of the paleogene in Baiyun Sag, Pearl River Mouth Basin
Authors: Xiong Ting , Cheng Leli , Guo Dongming , Guan Lijun , Jiang Qiangtao , Zhangming Hu , Yin Senlin , Chen Gongyang
Published: February 2023

The accurate understanding of the origin of overpressure is the basis of formation pressure research and the core work of determining the distribution of formation pore pressure in drilling design. The deep water area of Baiyun Sag in the Pearl River Mouth Basin in the northern margin of the South China Sea has been proved to be a hydrocarbon rich depression. In recent years, overpressure has been encountered in the middle and deep layers, but the geological origin of the overpressure in the deep water area are still unclear. Therefore, the pore pressure profile of the Baiyun Sag was evaluated using the data of drilling and seismic velocity, and the relationship between overpressure and the generation mechanism was established. Most of the surrounding and shallow strata of Baiyun Sag show normal pressure, while the middle and deep strata generally show overpressure, with the maximum pressure coefficient up to 1.55. The overpressure zone mainly develops from the middle of Zhujiang Formation to the upper member of Enping Formation. The mudstone resistivity and density values of the two typical Wells deviated from the normal trend. The density showed a constant trend with the increase of depth, while the resistivity showed a certain degree of reversal. The upper layer of the overpressure zone showed abnormally high resistivity values, corresponding to the overgland and transition zone formed by high carbonate content. There is no obvious increase of porosity in the overpressured sandstone strata of Baiyun sag, which does not have the characteristics of undercompaction. The velocity in the overpressure section of the two Wells varies greatly, and the density is basically unchanged or slightly decreased. It is concluded that the overpressure is caused by fluid expansion from hydrocarbon-generation. The large-scale and long-term fluid expansion caused by hydrocarbon generation and expulsion of source rocks provides the power source for the formation of overpressure in Baiyun sag. The distribution of effective source rocks has a controlling effect on the distribution range of overpressure. The tight sandstone strata in the Zhuhai, Wenchang and Enping formations become the cover layer of the overpressure system in the longitudinal direction.
A multi-energy microgrid configuration method in remote rural areas considering the condition value at risk
Authors: An Ranran , Yang Yue , Liang Xiaobing , Tao Ran , Yue Jingpeng , Huang Zhenlin
Published: February 2023

The uncertainty caused by the growing use of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar energy, makes it difficult to forecast the operation costs of micro-energy systems, particularly those in remote rural areas. Motivated by this point, this paper analyzes the possible operational risks and then introduces Condition Value at Risk (CVaR) to quantify the cost of the operational risk. On this basis, stochastic programming based on a multi-energy microgrid planning model that minimizes the investment cost, the operating cost, and the cost of operational risk, while considering the physical limitations of the multi-energy microgrid, is presented. Especially, scenarios of wind and solar energy output are generated using the Latin hypercube sampling method and reduced using the crowding measure-based scenario reduction method. After piecewise linearization and second-order cone relaxation, the model proposed in this paper is processed as a mixed integer linear model and solved by CPLEX. According to the achieved typical scenarios processed by the reduction method, the simulation shows that the presented configuration model can balance the investment cost and the cost of the operational risk, which effectively enhances the system’s ability to cope with uncertainties and fluctuations. Moreover, by adjusting the risk preference coefficient, the conservativeness of the planning scheme can be correspondingly adjusted.
Adipose tissue aging is regulated by an altered immune system
Authors: Zhang Yi-Xiang , Ou Min-Yi , Yang Zi-Han , Sun Yu , Li Qing-Feng , Zhou Shuang-Bai
Published: February 2023

Adipose tissue is a widely distributed organ that plays a critical role in age-related physiological dysfunctions as an important source of chronic sterile low-grade inflammation. Adipose tissue undergoes diverse changes during aging, including fat depot redistribution, brown and beige fat decrease, functional decline of adipose progenitor and stem cells, senescent cell accumulation, and immune cell dysregulation. Specifically, inflammaging is common in aged adipose tissue. Adipose tissue inflammaging reduces adipose plasticity and pathologically contributes to adipocyte hypertrophy, fibrosis, and ultimately, adipose tissue dysfunction. Adipose tissue inflammaging also contributes to age-related diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. There is an increased infiltration of immune cells into adipose tissue, and these infiltrating immune cells secrete proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Several important molecular and signaling pathways mediate the process, including JAK/STAT, NFκB and JNK, etc. The roles of immune cells in aging adipose tissue are complex, and the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. In this review, we summarize the consequences and causes of inflammaging in adipose tissue. We further outline the cellular/molecular mechanisms of adipose tissue inflammaging and propose potential therapeutic targets to alleviate age-related problems.
Emerging role of interaction between m6A and main ncRNAs in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers
Authors: Xu Yating , Yu Xiao , Guo Wenzhi , He Yuting
Published: February 2023

As a prevalent epigenetic modification, the role of m6A has been increasingly highlighted in the alteration of numerous RNAs implicated with multiple biological processes, such as formation, export, translation, and degradation. With further the understanding of m6A, accumulating evidence shows that m6A modification similarly affects metabolic process of non-coding genes. But the specifical interplay of m6A and ncRNAs (non-coding RNAs) in gastrointestinal cancers still lacks complete discussion. Thus, we analyzed and summarized how ncRNAs affect the regulators of m6A and by what means the expression of ncRNAs is altered via m6A in gastrointestinal cancers. We focused on the effect of the interaction of m6A and ncRNAs on the molecular mechanisms of malignant behavior in gastrointestinal cancers, revealing more possibilities of ncRNAs for diagnosis and treatment in term of epigenetic modification.
The perspective of fish venom: An overview of the physiology, evolution, molecular and genetics
Authors: Brighton Ndandala Charles , Mustapha Umar Farouk , Wang Yaorong , Assan Daniel , Zhao Guangwen , Huang Chunren , Mkuye Robert , Huang Hai , Li Guangli , Chen Huapu
Published: February 2023

Fish venom has several biological activities, including enzyme activity, cytotoxicity, neurotoxicity, muscular toxicity, haemolytic, and cardiotoxicity, when they enter other species or a human being, they disrupt the physiological systems. Transcriptomic analysis of the fish venom glands revealed a large number of proteins relevant to the pharmacological activity even though they are not well-studied. The limitations in studying fish venoms also have an impact on their molecular characterization. This is partly because of the nature of fish venoms, as they are extremely unstable at normal ambient temperatures making them difficult to study. Venomous fish inhabit both marine and freshwater environments, they have specialized venom-delivery apparatuses. Venom delivery systems have evolved in a various animal species, originally for different purposes including defense, competition, as well as predation. In coastal areas, fish stings are a major problem because they have a serious toxic effect on fishermen, local communities, and visitors. In this study, we have discussed the general perspective of fish venom from marine and freshwater species in different aspects basically in their molecular evolution, physiology, diversity, transcriptome, and proteomic studies. We expect that this paper will provide readers with a unique perspective on understanding the current status of fish venom research as well as working for future studies. Therefore, the gap of knowledge acquired from this study will play as a baseline for researchers discovering new studies and using fish venom in a broader range of biomedical applications, and their biological information that can be used to develop drugs for pharmaceutical uses.
Characterization, expression profiling, and estradiol response analysis of DMRT3 and FOXL2 in clam Cyclina sinensis
Authors: Yan Susu , Xu Mengge , Xie Jing , Liao Xiaoting , Liu Meimei , Wang Siting , Fan Sishao , Dong Zhiguo
Published: February 2023

The clam Cyclina sinensis is one of the important economical aquaculture shellfish in China. However, the mechanisms of sex determination and differentiation in C. sinensis have not been fully studied. In this study, full-length cDNAs of DMRT3 and FOXL2 were cloned and functionally characterized. The ORF region of CsDMRT3 consists of 1137 nucleotides, which encode 378 amino acids contains a conserved DM domain of DMRT family. The ORF region of CsFOXL2 is 1245 bp, encodes 414 amino acids, and contains a conserved FH domain. Tissue-specific expression results showed that the higher expression level of CsDMRT3 and CsFOXL2 was found in the ovary and testis of C. sinensis. The expression levels of CsDMRT3 and CsFOXL2 also peaked at the maturation stage of male and female gonadal development, respectively. Moreover, the expression levels of CsDMRT3 and CsFOXL2 were significantly higher in the trochophore and D-larval stages than in other stages. The transcript levels of CsDMRT3 reached the highest level at 11 months of age, while the CsFOXL2 reached the highest level at 7 months of age. In estradiol-treated experiments, the expression levels of CsDMRT3 and CsFOXL2 in the gonads were highest at 5 µg/L estradiol treatment, and histologically, it was observed that the oocytes diameters became larger with increasing estradiol concentration. These results suggest that CsDMRT3 and CsFOXL2 play an important role in gonadal development and sex differentiation of C. sinensis.
Influence of NCF architecture on the morphology of forming induced wrinkling
Authors: Jimenez Martin Claudia , Maes Vincent K. , McMahon Turlough , Kratz James
Published: February 2023

Biaxial Non-Crimp Fabrics (NCFs) offer the high deposition rates needed to meet the increased production rate targets of the aerospace industry, but formability remains an issue for complex parts. In this study a large scale, complex geometry with a span of 2 m is used to study wrinkle patterns in NCF preforms and how they are influenced by several key NCF parameters. Wrinkle dimensions are captured in 3D scans and used as a proxy metric for “formability”. Results show that whereas location and shape of the wrinkling are driven by geometry, wrinkle size and its metrics (amplitude, wavelength, aspect ratio) are driven by the NCF architecture. In addition, conflicting trends on wrinkle size observed show the complexity of forming as a process. The results presented show the importance of using several characterisation methods and not reducing wrinkling characterisation to a single data point or set.
Environmental Toxocara spp. presence in crowded squares and public parks from San Juan Province, Argentina: A call for a “One Health” approach
Authors: Avila Héctor Gabriel , Sandon Leonardo , Anes Paola Emilce , Meli Sergio Andrés , Giboin Gustavo Adolfo , Pérez Verónica Mirtha , Periago María Victoria
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Canine soil-transmitted helminth (cSTH) parasites need specific environmental conditions to complete their life cycle. Toxocara canis and T. cati are the most important zoonotic cSTH, since they are the causal agents of human toxocariasis. Canine STHs are dispersed in feces from infected domestic and wildlife canines. In this study, the presence of STH in canine feces was evaluated in 34 crowded public parks and squares from San Juan Province (Argentina).

Methods

Fecal samples were collected during different seasons in 2021–2022 and analyzed by standard coprological methods, including Sheather and Willis flotation and Telemann sedimentation. InfoStat 2020, OpenEpi V. 3.01 and R and RStudio® were used for statistical analysis and QGIS 3.16.10 for mapping.

Results

From a total of 1,121 samples collected, 100 (8.9%) were positive for at least one intestinal parasite (IP) and three cSTH species were detected: Toxocara spp., Toxascaris leonina and Trichuris vulpis. The most prevalent cSTH species was T. vulpis (64/1121; 0.057%), while the least prevalent was Toxocara spp. (19/1121; 0.017%). The detection of Toxocara spp. eggs was significantly different depending on the season. The geo-spatial variation of each cSTH per season is described.

Discussion

This is the first study in San Juan Province to identify environmental contamination of cSTHs in public areas. The specific localization of areas with the presence of cSTH eggs could provide information to guide strategies to reduce the cSTH infection burden in dogs and promote serological screening of the human population for Toxocara spp. Given the zoonotic nature of Toxocara spp. We hope this information will help to reinforce activities of control programs, focusing on the “One Health” approach.
The genetic diversity, replication, and transmission of 2009 pandemic H1N1 viruses in China
Authors: Sun Hailiang , Wang Yongcui , Liu Hanlin , Pang Zifeng , Cui Xinxin , Zhao Rui , Liu Yanwei , Qu Xiaoyun , Huang Mian , Ke Changwen , Liao Ming
Published: February 2023

Background

The 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza A virus (pdm09) continue to evolve, and few studies have systemically analyzed the evolution, replication, and transmission of pmd09 viruses in China.

Methods

To better understand the evolution and pathogenicity of pdm09 viruses, we systematically analyzed viruses that were confirmed in 2009–2020 in China and characterized their replication and transmission ability. We extensively analyzed the evolution characteristics of pdm/09 in China over the past decades. The replication ability of 6B.1 and 6B.2 lineages on Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) and human lung adenocarcinoma epithelial (A549) cells and their pathogenicity and transmission in guinea pigs were also compared.

Results

In total, 3,038 pdm09 viruses belonged to clade 6B.1 (62% of all pdm09 viruses) and clade 6B.2 (4%). Clade 6B.1 pdm09 viruses are the predominant clade, with proportions of 54.1%, 78.9%, 57.2%, 58.6%, 61.7%, 76.3%, and 66.6% in the North, Northeast, East, Central, South, Southwest, and Northeast regions in China, respectively. The isolation proportion of clade 6B.1 pdm/09 viruses was 57.1%, 74.3%, 96.1%, 98.2%, 86.7%, and 78.5% in 2015–2020, respectively. A clear differentiation time point appeared in 2015 before which the evolution trend of pdm09 viruses in China was similar to that in North America but then showed a different trend after that point. To characterize pdm09 viruses in China after 2015, we further analyzed 33 pdm09 viruses isolated in Guangdong in 2016–2017, among which A/ Guangdong/33/2016 and A/Guangdong/184/2016 (184/2016) belonged to clade 6B.2, and the other 31 strains belonged to clade 6B.1. A/Guangdong/887/2017 (887/2017) and A/Guangdong/752/2017 (752/2017) (clade 6B.1), 184/2016 (clade 6B.2) and A/California/04/2009 (CA04) replicated efficiently in MDCK cells and A549 cells, as well as the turbinates of guinea pigs. 184/2016 and CA04 could transmit among guinea pigs through physical contact.

Conclusion

Our findings provide novel insights into the evolution, pathogenicity, and transmission of pdm09 virus. The results show that enhancing surveillance of pdm09 viruses and timely evaluation of their virulence are essential.
Two-dimensional measurements of receptor-ligand interactions
Authors: Zheng Songjie , Zou Min , Shao Yingfeng , Wu Huaping , Wu Helong , Wang Xiaohuan
Published: February 2023

Gaining insight into the two-dimensional receptor-ligand interactions, which play a significant role in various pivotal biological processes such as immune response and cancer metastasis, will deepen our understanding of numerous physiological and pathological mechanisms and contribute to biomedical applications and drug design. A central issue involved is how to measure the in situ receptor-ligand binding kinetics. Here, we review several representative mechanical-based and fluorescence-based methods, and briefly discuss the strengths and weaknesses for each method. In addition, we emphasize the great importance of the combination of experimental and computational methods in studying the receptor-ligand interactions, and further studies should focus on the synergistic development of experimental and computational methods.
Habituation or sensitization of brain response to food cues: Temporal dynamic analysis in an functional magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Ghobadi-Azbari Peyman , Mahdavifar Khayati Rasoul , Ekhtiari Hamed
Published: February 2023

Introduction

In the modern obesogenic environment, heightened reactivity to food-associated cues plays a major role in overconsumption by evoking appetitive responses. Accordingly, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies have implicated regions of the salience and rewards processing in this dysfunctional food cue-reactivity, but the temporal dynamics of brain activation (sensitization or habituation over time) remain poorly understood.

Methods

Forty-nine obese or overweight adults were scanned in a single fMRI session to examine brain activation during the performance of a food cue-reactivity task. A general linear model (GLM) was used to validate the activation pattern of food cue reactivity in food > neutral contrast. The linear mixed effect models were used to examine the effect of time on the neuronal response during the paradigm of food cue reactivity. Neuro-behavioral relationships were investigated with Pearson’s correlation tests and group factor analysis (GFA).

Results

A linear mixed-effect model revealed a trend for the time-by-condition interactions in the left medial amygdala [t(289) = 2.21, β = 0.1, P = 0.028], right lateral amygdala [t(289) = 2.01, β = 0.26, P = 0.045], right nucleus accumbens (NAc) [t(289) = 2.81, β = 0.13, P = 0.005] and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) [t(289) = 2.58, β = 0.14, P = 0.01], as well as in the left superior temporal cortex [42 Area: t(289) = 2.53, β = 0.15, P = 0.012; TE1.0_TE1.2 Area: t(289) = 3.13, β = 0.27, P = 0.002]. Habituation of blood-oxygenation-level-dependent (BOLD) signal during exposure to food vs. neutral stimuli was evident in these regions. We have not found any area in the brain with significant increased response to food-related cues over time (sensitization). Our results elucidate the temporal dynamics of cue-reactivity in overweight and obese individuals with food-induced craving. Both subcortical areas involved in reward processing and cortical areas involved in inhibitory processing are getting habituated over time in response to food vs. neutral cues. There were significant bivariate correlations between self-report behavioral/psychological measures with individual habituation slopes for the regions with dynamic activity, but no robust cross-unit latent factors were identified between the behavioral, demographic, and self-report psychological groups.

Discussion

This work provides novel insights into dynamic neural circuit mechanisms supporting food cue reactivity, thereby suggesting pathways in biomarker development and cue-desensitization interventions.
Promotion of healthy adipose tissue remodeling ameliorates muscle inflammation in a mouse model of sarcopenic obesity
Authors: Ge Yunlin , Li Siqi , Yao Tao , Tang Yuexiao , Wan Qiangyou , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhao Jing , Zhang Mingliang , Shao Mengle , Wang Lijun , Wu Ying
Published: February 2023

A large subset of elders is classified as having sarcopenic obesity, a prevalence of obesity in combination with sarcopenia which places an aging population at the risk of adverse health consequences from both conditions. However, its complex etiology has restrained the development of effective therapeutic strategies. Recent progress has highlighted that the mode by which adipose tissue (AT) remodels is a determinant of metabolic health in the context of obesity. Healthy AT remodeling confers metabolic protection including insulin-sensitizing and anti-inflammatory effects to non-adipose tissues including skeletal muscle. Here, we employed a doxycycline-inducible adipocyte Hif1a knockout system to evaluate the muscle-protective effects associated with HIF1α inactivation-induced healthy AT remodeling in a model of sarcopenic obesity. We found that adipocyte HIF1α inactivation leads to improved AT metabolic health, reduced serum levels of lipids and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and increase of circulating adipokine (APN) in ovariectomized obese mice fed with obesogenic high-fat diet (HFD). Concomitantly, muscle inflammation is evidently lower in obese OVX mice when adipocyte HIF1α is inactivated. Furthermore, these protective effects against muscle inflammation can be mimicked by the administration of adiponectin receptor agonist AdipoRon. Collectively, our findings underscore the importance of AT metabolic health in the context of concurrent sarcopenia and obesity, and promotion of healthy AT remodeling may represent a new therapeutic strategy to improve muscle health in sarcopenic obesity.
Prevalence and associated factors of cancer pain among adult cancer patients evaluated at an oncology unit in the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Kibret Anteneh Ayelign , Wolde Haileab Fekadu , Moges Abebe Muche , Aragie Hailu , Teferi Ephrem Tafesse , Assefa Yohannes Awoke , Melese Endalkachew Belayneh , Melesse Mequanint , Worku Yilkal Belete , Belay Daniel Gashaneh , Molla Meseret Derbew , Adugna Dagnew Getnet
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Globally, cancer is the second leading cause of death and was responsible for 9.6 million deaths in 2018. Worldwide, 2 million people experience pain every day, and cancer pain is one of the major neglected public health problems, especially in Ethiopia. Despite reporting the burden and risk factors of cancer pain as a principal importance, there are limited studies. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of cancer pain and its associated factors among adult patients evaluated at the oncology ward in the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 January to 31 March 2021. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the total sample size of 384 patients. Data were collected using pretested and structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were fitted to identify the factors associated with cancer pain among patients with cancer. An adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% CI was computed to determine the level of significance.

Results

A total of 384 study participants were involved, with a response rate of 97.5%. The proportion of cancer pain was found to be 59.9% (95% CI 54.8–64.8). The odds of cancer pain were escalated by anxiety (AOR = 2.52, 95% CI 1.02–6.19), patients with hematological cancer (AOR = 4.68, 95% CI 1.30–16.74), gastrointestinal cancer (AOR = 5.15, 95% CI 1.45–18.2), and stages III and IV (AOR = 14.3, 95% CI 3.20–63.7).

Conclusion

The prevalence of cancer pain among adult patients with cancer in northwest Ethiopia is relatively high. Variables such as anxiety, types of cancer, and stage of cancer had a statistically significant association with cancer pain. Hence, to advance the management of pain, it is better to create more awareness regarding cancer-related pain and provide palliative care early on in the diagnosis of the disease.
Molecular mechanism of Cuscutae semen–radix rehmanniae praeparata in relieving reproductive injury of male rats induced with tripterygium wilfordii multiglycosides: A tandem mass tag-based proteomics analysis
Authors: Han Shanshan , Dai Yanlin , Sun Lihui , Xing Yaping , Ding Ying , Zhang Xia , Xu Shanshan
Published: February 2023

Background: We determined the effects of Cuscutae semen (Cuscuta chinensis Lam. or Cuscuta australis R. Br.)–Radix rehmanniae praeparata (Rehjnannia glutinosa Libosch.) on the protein levels in testicular tissues of rats gavaged with tripterygium wilfordii multiglycosides (GTW) and elucidated the molecular mechanism underlying Cuscutae semen–Radix rehmanniae praeparata for relieving GTW-induced reproductive injury.

Methods: A total of 21 male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into the control group, model group, and Cuscutae semen–Radix rehmanniae praeparata group based on their body weights. The control group was given 10 mLkg−1 of 0.9% normal saline by gavage daily. The model group (GTW group) was administered with 12 mg kg-1 GTW by gavage daily. Cuscutae semen–Radix rehmanniae praeparata group (the TSZSDH group) was administered with 1.56 gkg−1 of Cuscutae semen–Radix rehmanniae praeparata granules daily according to their model group dosing. The serum levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, and testosterone were measured after 12 weeks of continuous gavage, and the pathological lesion of testicular tissues was observed. Differentially expressed proteins were evaluated by quantitative proteomics and verified by western blotting (WB) and Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR).

Results: Cuscutae semen–Radix rehmanniae praeparata can effectively relieve pathological lesions of GTW-induced testicular tissues. A total of 216 differentially expressed proteins were identified in the TSZSDH group and model group. High-throughput proteomics revealed that differentially expressed proteins are closely associated with the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway, protein digestion and absorption, and protein glycan pathway in cancer. Cuscutae semen–Radix rehmanniae praeparata can significantly upregulate the protein expressions of Acsl1, Plin1, Dbil5, Plin4, Col12a1, Col1a1, Col5a3, Col1a2, Dcn, so as to play a protective role on testicular tissues. Acsl1, Plin1, and PPARγ on the PPAR signaling pathway were verified by WB and RT-qPCR experiments, which were found to be consistent with the results of proteomics analysis.

Conclusion: Cuscutae semen and Radix rehmanniae praeparata may regulate the PPAR signaling pathway mediated Acsl1, Plin1 and PPARγ to reduce the testicular tissue damage of male rats caused by GTW.