bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbamylated erythropoietin alleviates seawater immersion-aggravated acute lung injury via inhibiting ferroptosis after Traumatic Brain Injury.
Authors: zhang hao , lin long , ye dan , xu yongjun , wang shousen
Published: July 2023

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening disorder associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. It is characterized by reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and epithelial apoptosis. Ferroptosis, another form of cell death triggered by the accumulation of bioactive iron and ROS generation, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of ALI. This study aimed to explore the role of Carbamylated erythropoietin (C-EPO) in treating seawater drowning (SWD)-induced acute lung injury (SWD-ALI) and SWD-ALI aggravated by traumatic brain injury (SWD + TBI). The study established rat models of SWD-ALI and SWD + TBI-induced ALI to investigate the effects of C-EPO on ferroptosis and autophagy in these conditions. Rat models of SWD-ALI and SWD + TBI-induced ALI were created to evaluate the impact of C-EPO. Lung histopathology, tissue damage, oxidative stress, and lung injury severity were assessed to determine the effectiveness of C-EPO treatment. The study also examined the influence of C-EPO on ferroptosis and autophagy. Key proteins in the mTOR signaling pathway, including p-mTOR, P62, Beclin1, and the LC3II/LC3I ratio, were analyzed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. C-EPO treatment significantly improved lung histopathology, reduced tissue damage, mitigated oxidative stress, and attenuated lung injury severity in the SWD-ALI and SWD + TBI-induced ALI rat models. C-EPO demonstrated protective effects against septicemia-induced ferroptosis in the lung tissue of rats with SWD + TBI-induced ALI. Furthermore, C-EPO treatment inhibited autophagy activation in SWD + TBI-induced ALI by modulating the mTOR signaling pathway, as evidenced by decreased expression of p-mTOR, P62, Beclin1, and a modified LC3II/LC3I ratio.The findings of this study suggest that C-EPO shows promise as a therapeutic agent for managing SWD-ALI and SWD + TBI-induced ALI. By targeting ferroptosis and suppressing autophagy via modulation of the mTOR signaling pathway, C-EPO provides protection against lung injury. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of ALI and offer valuable insights into potential therapeutic interventions for this life-threatening condition.
Integrative analysis reveals the role of THBS1 in IgG4-related disease
Authors: Yan Songxin , Yu Tian , Peng Yu , Li Zhan , Wu Ziyan , Su Pengfei , Zhang Yingjing , Xu Honglin , Feng Futai , Huang Yuan , Li Yongzhe
Published: July 2023

Background: IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a heterogeneous immune-mediated fibroinflammatory disorder. By utilizing the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and single-cell sequencing data, we aimed to construct a comprehensive transcriptomic profile of IgG4-RD and identify hub genes involved in its pathogenesis.
Results: IgG4-RD-related differentially expressed genes were found to be coenriched in immune- and platelet-related biological functions or signaling pathways. WGCNA analysis showed that five hub genes (GNG11, PDE5A, PLK2, PROS1, and thrombospondin 1 [THBS1]) were upregulated in LSG and PBMCs. Further analysis of the protein–protein interaction network revealed that THBS1 was the key gene. Plasma THBS1 levels were significantly elevated in patients with IgG4-RD compared with those in healthy controls (p< 0.0001). Immune infiltration analysis revealed a correlation between THBS1expression and various immune infiltrating cells. Single-cell sequencing analysis indicated that THBS1 was predominantly expressed in classical monocytes of PBMCs derived from patients with IgG4-RD.
Conclusion: This study revealed the potential pathogenic mechanisms of THBS1 in IgG4-related disease and identified THBS1 as a potential diagnostic biomarker for the disease.
A retrospective study of paraganglioma of the urinary bladder and literature review
Authors: Zhang Zhijun , Zhao Yi , Wang ShiJun , Wen Jin , Wang Dong , Ji ZhiGang , Zhang YuShi , Li HanZhong
Published: July 2023

Objective
To retrospect and summarize the characteristics and therapy of paraganglioma of the urinary bladder (PUB).
Method
Patients who underwent the operation in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2012 to December 2021 were reviewed for this retrospective study.
Results
A total of 29 patients, comprising 9 males (31%) and 20 females (69%) were included. The main manifestations were hypertension, palpitation, and micturition syncope. 8 patients had an increased 24-hour urinary catecholamine, and 7 of them were increased norepinephrine. 7 patients’ normetanephrine were increased. 6/18 metaiodobenzylguanidine and 8/22 octreotide imaging were positive. 15 cases took laparoscopic partial cystectomy and 14 took transurethral resection of bladder tumor. Of all the patients, the immunohistochemical index of Melan-A, AE1/AE3 and α-inhibin were negative, while (chromogranin A) CgA, S-100 and (succinate dehydrogenase) SDH B were positive. Ki-67 of 28/29 cases are under 5%, and 1 case whose Ki-67 was 20% was diagnosed with malignant PUB. 25 patients had a regular follow-up, 1 patient died in 1 year after the surgery, 2 patients were lost found, and 2 patients had a recurrence. The symptoms all disappeared or relieved after the surgery.
Conclusion
Transurethral surgery approach fits for PUB tumors whose sizes are under 3cm or that protrudes into the bladder and can significantly reduce the postoperative hospital stay. Early detection and treatment are effective, and regular review is necessary after the surgery.
Mapping quantitative trait loci regions associated with Marek’s Disease on chicken autosomes by means of selective DNA pooling
Authors: Lipkin Ehud , Smith Jacqueline , Soller Morris , Burt David W. , Fulton Janet E.
Published: July 2023

Marek’s Disease (MD), which can result in neurological damage and tumour formation, has large effects on the economy and animal welfare of the poultry industry worldwide. Previously, we mapped autosomal MD QTL regions (QTLRs) by individual genotyping of an F6 population from a full-sib advanced intercross line. We further mapped MD QTLRs on the chicken Z chromosome (GGZ) using the same F6 population, and by selective DNA pooling (SDP) of 8 elite egg production lines. Here we used SDP of the same pools used on GGZ to map autosomal MD QTLRs. Thirty seven QTLRs were found. Seven of the QTLRs were tested by all sires from the same 8 lines, individually genotyped for QTLR markers. Five of the tested QTLRs were confirmed. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) was calculated for all QTLR markers on the same chromosome, and complex LD blocks were found. Distribution of P- and LD- values were used to asses the QTLR causative elements. Allele substitution effects were calculated based on both pooled SNP microarray genotypes, and individual genotypes of QTLRs markers. Substantial allele effect and contribution to the phenotypic and genotypic variation were obtained. The results explain part of the MD response, and provide targets for mitigating MD.
Mapping the Pandemic: A Review of GIS-based Spatial Modeling of COVID-19
Authors: Aboalyem Mustafa Shebani , Ismail Mohd Tahir
Published: July 2023

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), COVID-19 has caused more than 6 million deaths, while over 600 million people are infected. With regard to the tools and techniques of disease analysis, spatial analysis is increasingly being used to analyze the impact of COVID-19. The present review offers an assessment of researches that used regional data systems to study COVID-19 epidemic that was published between 2020 and 2022. The research work focuses at: categories the area, authors, methods, and procedures used by the authors and the results of their findings. This input will enable the contrast of different spatial models used for regional data systems with COVID-19. Our outcomes showed an increase in the use of geographically weighted regression and Moran I spatial statistical tools applied to better spatial and time-based gauges. We have also found an increase in the use of local models compared to other spatial statistics models/methods.
Malaria Mimicking Acute Abdomen: An Extremely Rare Case Report
Authors: Hassan YonisYusuf , Ali Abdullahi Sheikh , Mohamed Ali Jimale
Published: July 2023

Malaria is concentrated mostly in poor low-income tropical and subtropical countries of the Africa due to Anopheles gambiae of predominantly parasite species Plasmodium falciparum. In Somalia, Malaria is considered an endemic-area across the country and progress to cause multi-organ failure both in adults and children. This case report aims to shed light on a rare suspected case of malaria mimicking acute abdominal pain which rarely occur compared to other clinical findings of Malaria. Here, we present a 9-year-old male patient from south Somalia with a complaint of severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting presented to the emergency department, those clinical findings not suggesting being Malaria symptoms. Clinical findings of Malaria may include nonspecific findings such as headache, fatigue, myalgia, and arthralgia associated with fever attacks. In addition to affecting organs like the brain, lungs, and kidneys, severe malaria frequently requires intensive care medicine. It can also be worsened by systemic infections and widespread bleeding. In conclusion, after a detailed history, careful physical examination, and comprehensive evaluation, the patient was diagnosed with acute abdominal pain caused by Malaria. Therefore, it is successfully treated by Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) to eliminate the parasite load rapidly, as a first-line malaria therapy in endemic countries, and currently standard care for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria.
Utilizing propensity score matching methodology to assess the impact of adjuvant radiotherapy on the prognosis of men diagnosed with breast cancer
Authors: Meng Jing , Wu Qi , Wang Jianlin , Zhao Aimei , Ren Huiwen , Sun Zhiqiang , Luo Judong
Published: July 2023

Background
Male breast cancer (MBC) is a rare condition, and the effectiveness of radiotherapy in treating MBC patients remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the role of adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) in the management of MBC.
Methods
MBC patients from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database were included in the study and were divided into RT and no-RT groups. A 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) method was employed to balance baseline characteristics. Kaplan-Meier curves were used to evaluate the impact of RT on overall survival (OS) and breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS). Cox analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with survival. Subgroup analysis was performed to identify subgroups of MBC patients who might benefit from RT.
Results
In the matched cohort, the 5-year OS and BCSS rates were higher in the RT group compared to the no-RT group (p = 0.023, p = 0.035). Univariate and multivariate analysis demonstrated significant differences in both OS and BCSS associated with RT (p = 0.024, p = 0.037, p = 0.025, p = 0.028). Forest plots revealed a greater OS benefit in patients with T1 stage, age ≥ 60 years, estrogen receptor positivity (ER+), absence of distant metastasis (M0), married status, and with local or regional metastases. Furthermore, a greater BCSS benefit was observed in patients aged ≥ 60 years, ER+, progesterone receptor negativity (PR-), M0, married status, and with regional metastases who received RT for MBC.
Conclusion
RT in MBC patients is associated with improved survival and is recommended for patients aged ≥ 60 years with ER+, PR-, M0, married status, and regional metastases.
Application of artificial intelligence (AI) preoperative planning in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Min Meipeng , URBA RAFI , Zhang Wenjie , Gao Jia , He Bin , Wang Yunhua , Fan Lei
Published: July 2023

Background
The poor reliability of preoperative planning measured by traditional X-ray templates increases the difficulty of osteotomy and prosthesis implantation during an operation, which to some extent affects the surgical outcome of total knee arthroplasty and postoperative satisfaction of patients.
Objective
To evaluate the accuracy and effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI) preoperative planning in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
Materials and methods
We selected 48 patients who underwent primary total knee arthroplasty for knee osteoarthritis in our Joint Surgery Department between March 2021 and May 2022. The test group included 24 patients who underwent three-dimensional preoperative planning using artificial intelligence (AI), and the control group consisted of 24 patients who underwent two-dimensional preoperative planning using traditional template measurement. The differences were not statistically significant when comparing the general information of the two groups, such as gender, age, BMI, affected side category, ASA classification, history of diabetes, history of stroke (P > 0.05). For analyzing the accuracy and application effect of the two preoperative planning methods, the intraoperative operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage volume, postoperative lower limb alignment angle, VAS score, and AKS score were compared between the two groups.
Results
All patients were followed for 6 to 8 months, and no postoperative complications or postoperative deaths occurred in either group. There was no statistically significant difference between the general data of patients in both groups (P > 0.05). The complete matching rates of femoral component, tibial component, and tibial liner in the test group were significantly better than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative drainage volume in the test group were significantly less than those in the control group (P < 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference in the postoperative lower limb alignment Angle between the two groups (P < 0.05). The VAS score of the test group was significantly better than that of the control group within 2 weeks (P < 0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference after 1 month (P > 0.05). The AKS score of the test group was significantly higher than that of the control group at 3 months after operation (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
Compared with traditional film planning, AI preoperative planning can improve the accuracy of intraoperative prosthesis implantation and the surgical outcome of TKA, which is worthy of further promotion and application in clinical practice.
Analysis of rumen Bacterial diversity in Mongolian sheep based on 16S rDNA sequencing
Authors: Qiao Huiyan , Shi Yali , Jia Yijiu
Published: July 2023

Background
Rumen microorganisms play an important role in the physiology, nutrition, pathology, and host immunity of ruminants. Of these microorganisms, bacteria were the most abundant in the rumen. The main purpose of this article is to explore the diversity, abundance and microflora function of rumen bacteria in Mongolian sheep in Inner Mongolia. 11 rumen samples from adult sheep from Inner Mongolia were collected randomly lived in the same environment and fed in the same way. Using Illumine Seq platform, 16S rDNA V4 regions were sequenced to analyze the rumen microbial structure and function prediction of the rumen fluid from the 11 Mongolia sheep.
Results
6200 effective sequences and 57759 OTUs for species categorization were acquired by 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing. The analysis of bacterial diversity showed that the dominant bacteria groups were Bacteroidota and Firmicutes at the phylum level and Prevotellaceae at the family level. It was shown that most genes encoded by sheep rumen bacteria were related to metabolism, followed by gene information processing and environmental information processing. Additionally, results showed that fibrinolytic enzymes and cellulose-degrading bacteria were abundant in Mongolian sheep rumen.
Conclusions
The results revealed the population distribution, population characteristics, and quantity of rumen bacteria in sheep, which laid a foundation for the study of rumen bacterial diversity. Additionally, it served as a resource for cultivating strains that produce cellulase and a manual for identifying cellulose degradation genes with potential for commercial use.
Adverse events of COVID-19 vaccination among Japanese University Students suppressed by breakfast consumption and favorable sleeping habits
Authors: Tetsuka Nobuyuki , Suzuki Keiko , Suzuki Kodai , Ishihara Takuma , Miwa Takao , Tajirika Satoko , Aadachi Miho , Horita Ryo , Fukao Taku , Yamamoto Mayumi
Published: July 2023

Despite the evidence of effectiveness of vaccines in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection-associated serious illness, hospitalization, and death, there is some hesitation towards COVID-19 vaccination in young adults because of concerns regarding adverse events. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in Gifu University students receiving the mRNA-1273 vaccine and boosters to elucidate the real incidence of adverse events and factors that prevent them. We examined the adverse events and identified potential risk factors through a self-administered questionnaire reporting their physical condition after COVID-19 vaccination. A higher number of vaccinations, female sex, and low body mass index were significantly associated with the occurrence of adverse events on the day of or after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Regular breakfast consumption was significantly associated with a decreased incidence of post-vaccination itching, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Sufficient sleep duration was significantly associated with a decreased incidence of post-vaccination abdominal pain and diarrhea. Focal/systemic adverse events were highly frequent among university students after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, with no life-threatening cases or hospitalizations. A higher number of vaccinations, female sex, and lower body mass index were associated with an increased incidence of adverse events. Contrastingly, regular breakfast and sufficient sleep were associated with fewer adverse events.
Human Leucocyte Antigen (HLA) class I expression is an EBV-independent major determinator of microenvironment composition in classic Hodgkin Lymphoma and associated with a cytotoxic immune response
Authors: Klapper Wolfram , Müller-Meinhardt Berit , Seifert Nicole , Grund Johanna , Reinke Sarah , Borchmann Sven , von Tresckow Bastian , Borchmann Peter , Plütschow Annette , Richter Julia , Engert Andreas , Altenbuchinger Michael , Bröckelmann Paul
Published: July 2023

Hodgkin Reed Sternberg cells (HRSC) in classic Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) frequently lack expression of human leucocyte antigen class I (HLA-I), hampering activation of cytotoxic T-cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). We identify the HLA-I expression status of HRSC, found in a minority of HL, as a strong determinant of TME composition. Combined whole tissue and spatial analysis of the TME suggests the presence of a cytotoxic T-cell immune response in HLA-I positive HL. However, increased expression of the inhibitory immune-checkpoint LAG3 on CD8 + T-cells in close proximity to HRSC may interfere with the expected cytotoxicity leading to the observed absence of clonally expanded T-cells in HLA-I-positive HL. Of note, the observed effects were independent of the presence of Epstein-Barr Virus in HRSC. Moreover, HLA-I-positive HL are associated with a B-cell-rich TME and show a trend towards a favorable clinical course. In summary, our data suggest that HL with HLA-I + HRSC are distinct in their microenvironment and harbor traces of a cytotoxic immune response blocked by induction of LAG3 on CD8 + cells in proximity to HRSC. Given the major differences in TME composition immune checkpoint inhibitors may differ in their mechanism of action in HLA-I-positive compared to HLA-negative HL.
From embryo to adult: Unravelling the temporal and spatial variations in fungal phylotypes of Atlantic salmon
Authors: Lokesh Jep , Siriyappagouder Prabhugouda , Fernandes Jorge M.O
Published: July 2023

Background
Early microbial colonization has a profound impact on host physiology during different stages of ontogeny. Although several studies have focused on early bacterial colonization and succession, the composition and role of fungal communities are poorly known in fish. Here, we sequenced the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region of fungi to profile the mycobiome associated with the eggs, hatchlings and intestine of Atlantic salmon at various freshwater and marine stages.
Results
In most of the stages studied, fungal diversity was lower than bacterial diversity. There were several stage-specific fungal phylotypes belonging to different stages of ontogeny but some groups, such as Candida tropicalis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Alternaria metachromatica, Davidiella tassiana and Humicola nigrescens, persisted during successive stages of ontogeny. We observed significant changes in the intestinal fungal communities during the first feeding. Prior to first feeding, Humicola nigrescens dominated, but Saccharomyces cerevisiae (10 wph) and Candida tropicalis (12 wph) became dominant subsequently. Seawater transfer resulted in a decrease in alpha diversity and an increase in Candida tropicalis abundance. We also observed notable variations in beta diversity and composition between the different farms.
Conclusion
Overall, the present study sheds light on the fungal communities of Atlantic salmon from early ontogeny to adulthood. These novel findings will also be useful in future studies investigating host-microbiota interactions in the context of developing better nutritional and health management strategies for Atlantic salmon farming.
Factors Associated with the Uptake OF Cervical Cancer Screening Among HIV-Positive Women Attending Immune Suppressed Syndrome Clinic at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital
Authors: Kavira Victoria , Archibong Victor , Ayuba John Tabakwot , Usman Ibe Michael , Tibaijuka Leevan , Owaraganise Asiphas , Ngonzi Joseph
Published: July 2023

Purpose
This study determined the prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions, uptake of cervical cancer screening (CCS), and its associated factors among HIV-positive women attending the Immuno-Suppression Syndrome (ISS), and the Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology Clinics of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH).
Patients and methods:
This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the ISS Clinic of MRRH, southwestern Uganda. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires among 303 confirmed HIV-positive patients between January 2020 and April 2020. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were conducted.
Results
The majority of the respondent 179(59.1%) had screened for cervical cancer and of the 124 unscreened women, 5(4.0%) had precancerous cervical lesions. HIV-positive women directed by healthcare staff in their most recent visit (AOR = 7.7, 95%CI: 4.08–14.63, p < 0.01), women from villages where outreaches were conducted (AOR = 4.4, 95%CI: 1.94–10.05, p < 0.01), and women that were attended to by two skilled health workers (AOR = 5.1, 95%CI: 1.81–14.43, p < 0.01) were more likely to go for CCS.
Conclusion
The uptake of CCS services among HIV-positive women attending ISS clinic was generally high. The prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions was generally low. This study demonstrates that referrals, outreaches, and the presence of skilled health workers enhanced the uptake of cervical cancer screening among HIV-positive women attending the ISS clinic at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital.
Dissociating different temporal stages of emotional word processing by feature- based attention
Authors: Schindler Sebastian , Vormbrock Ria , Helming Hanne , Straube Thomas
Published: July 2023

Negative emotional content is prioritized across different stages of information processing as reflected by different components of the event-related potential (ERPs). In this preregistered study (N = 40), we investigated how varying the attentional focus allows us to dissociate the involvement of specific ERP components in the processing of negative and neutral words. Participants had to discriminate the orientation of lines overlaid onto the words, the word type (adjective/noun), or the emotional content (negative/neutral). Thus, attention was either not focused on words (distraction task), non-emotional aspects, or the emotional relevance of words. Regardless of the task, there were no significant differences between negative and neutral words for the P1, N1, or P2 components. In contrast, interactions between emotion and task were observed for the Early Posterior Negativity (EPN) and Late Positive Potential (LPP). EPN differences were absent during the distraction task but were present in the other two tasks. LPP emotion differences were found only when attention was directed to the emotional content of words. Our study adds to the evidence that early ERP components do not reliably separate negative and neutral words. However, results show that mid-latency and late stages of emotion processing are separable by different attention tasks. The EPN represents a stage of attentional enhancement of negative words given sufficient attentional resources. Differential activations during the LPP stage are associated with more elaborative processing of emotional meaning of words.
A blessing or a curse: China’s Arctic involvement and its environmental policy to prevent further climatic change and pollution
Authors: Wang Yaohui
Published: July 2023

The protection and sustainable use of environmental resources is one of the most salient tasks in Arctic regional governance, given that the region is a particularly fragile zone threatened by global warning and polar pollution. In recent years, as the People’s Republic of China has significantly increased its economic presence in the High North, whether and how Beijing’s Arctic engagement has influenced its efforts to prevent further climatic change associated with global warming and the accumulation of toxic substances are particularly important questions in the study of Arctic politics and global environmental governance. Borrowing insights from the costly signalling literature, this article presents an investigation of these questions. Contrary to the popular “Western-based” perspective that Beijing’s Arctic involvement will inevitably exaggerate human-induced environmental hazards, I argue that China’s pursuit to integrate itself into Arctic affairs and foster a responsible great power image actually incentivize it to pledge more ambitious environmental policies as a costly signal to demonstrate that the rising power is willing to adhere to the Arctic’s existing norms and rules instead of challenging the status quo. Thus, China’s engagement can contribute to environmental governance and sustainable development in the Arctic region. Relying on a set of time-series error correction models and ordinary least-square regression models, the analysis shows that China’s Arctic engagement is positively correlated with its environmental policy stringency. Taken together, these findings advance our understanding on the implications of under-studied state actors for Arctic sustainable development and environmental governance, suggesting that the international community can benefit from accepting China into the Arctic instead of pushing it away from the circle.
DNA damage in prepared semen is associated with fertilisation rate in assisted reproduction technology (ART) treatment
Authors: Altakroni Bashar , Hunter Helen , Horne Greg , Brison Daniel R , Povey Andrew C
Published: July 2023

Purpose
This study aims to determine to what extent sperm DNA damage is associated with semen quality and assisted reproduction technology (ART) treatment outcomes.
Methods
105 male partners of couples attending for infertility treatment were recruited and DNA integrity was measured by a neutral Comet assay and N7-methyldeoxyguanosine (N7-MedG) DNA levels by an immunoslotblot in sperm prepared by density gradient centrifugation for treatment use. Associations between measures of DNA damage (%tail DNA, proportion of sperm with either low (LDD) or high (HDD) levels of DNA damage, and N7-methylguanine levels), semen quality (concentration and motility) and ART outcomes (% oocytes fertilised, % embryo fragmentation, % cleavage, and birth outcome) were assessed.
Results
In the prepared sperm samples, DNA damage was significantly associated with semen quality and was lower than that in the original neat sample. % fertilisation was significantly negatively associated with N7-MedG levels, %HDD and % tail DNA and was positively associated with %LDD. % cleavage and live birth in fresh cycles were not associated with DNA damage but there was evidence that %LDD was lower, and %HDD higher, in couples with live births after a frozen embryo transfer cycle.
Conclusion
DNA damage can negatively impact on semen quality and fertilization rate but not embryo cleavage or live birth rate. These results suggest that the impact of sperm DNA damage on pregnancy outcomes appears in the early stage of embryo development.
The Dynamic Concept, Verbal-Nonverbal Taxonomy: A Study from Engram Theory and Conceptual Atomism
Authors: Muñoz-López Miguel Ángel , Hernández-Pozo María del Rocío , Rodríguez Omar David Almaraz
Published: July 2023

This article focuses on concept learning, exploring the variability of this process in relation to verbal and nonverbal taxonomy. The theories of concept and memory, particularly conceptual atomism and engram theory, are examined, which provide a solid foundation for understanding learning processes and concept formation. A novel definition of "dynamic concept" is elaborated based on these theories. Considering this, an experiment was designed to measure conceptual learning, revealing significant differences between verbal and nonverbal learning. In conclusion, the aim of this research is to contribute to the understanding of the nature of concepts and their relationship with engram formation in the brain. By addressing existing theories and conducting experiments, new perspectives and advancements are sought in the field of cognitive neuroscience.
Evaluation of the prevalence of coronary artery disease in patients with valvular heart disease
Authors: Abozaid Natheer , wahdan Shafiq
Published: July 2023

Background: VHD, it is a disorder that affects the valves that can lead to stenosis which reduce the blood flow forward or regurgitation which cause return the blood back.
CAD: it is a progressive inflammation of the wall of the coronary artery and is most often caused by atheroma, which reduces or interrupted the blood flow of the heart muscle.
Methods: an observational study of the type of cross section study. This study targeted the patients of Damascus hospital on patients data from the year 2014 to 2023 , 550 files were studied and about 86 patients were selected who met specific acceptance criteria, while all patients were excluded according to specific exclusion criteria.
Admission criteria: patients with signal severe valvular lesion.
Exclusion criteria: patients with multiple valvular lesions, patients age less than 18, mild and moderate valvular lesions, patients did not have angiography.
Place of study: Damascus hospital.
Study time: between 3/22/2023 and 6/15/2023.
Results: The ages of the studied patients ranged from (45-75).
The number of male patients was 42 (48.8 %) and female 44 (51.2 %) of the study patients.
for the risk factors for coronary disease, the number of smokers was 19 (22.1 %) of the total patients, and the number of patients with diabetes was 24 (27.9%), and there was a family story in 6 (6.9 %) of the patients. These factors were similar between the groups, and the value of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides were not significantly different.
The presence of coronary heart disease in 33 (38.3 %) of The patients.
Conclusion: The study showed that there is an important difference between valvular lesions in terms of the prevalence of coronary heart disease, and the aortic stenosis is most often associated with coronary disease and the difference can be attributed to the fact that the risk factors for atheroma (which is the age in our study) is more common in aortic stenosis.
The study also showed that mitral regurgitation also has a statistically significant increase in the prevalence of coronary disease compared to mitral stenosis, as it is known that coronary disease plays an important role as a cause of mitral regurgitation, and the factors of Coronary risk (arterial hypertension in our study) is more frequent.
Prolonged Use of ADHD Medications is Associated with Testosterone Hypofunction – Results from a National Claims Database Analysis
Authors: Ostdiek-Wille Garett , Bavitz Kyle , Kohn Taylor , Deibert Christopher
Published: July 2023

Male hypogonadism is not a risk associated with ADHD stimulant medications, but recent studies have explored this connection. Though the exact pathophysiologic connection remains unclear, we predicted that long-term use of ADHD stimulant medications could increase the risk of hypogonadism in post-pubertal males. Utilizing the national TriNetX, LLC Research Network, individuals older than 18 with a diagnosis of ADHD receiving long-term stimulant medication (> 36 monthly prescriptions) were selected for the study population. Two control groups were constructed: individuals with ADHD but no stimulant medication use, and individuals without ADHD or stimulant medication use. A diagnosis of testicular hypofunction (ICD-10: E29.1) within five years of long-term ADHD stimulant medication use was chosen as the primary outcome. After propensity score matching, 17 224 men were analyzed in each group. Of the men with long-term ADHD stimulant medication use, 1.20% were subsequently diagnosed with testicular hypofunction compared to 0.67% of individuals with ADHD but no associated medication use (RR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.42–2.23) and 0.68% in men without an ADHD diagnosis or stimulant medication use (RR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.39–2.19). Therefore, chronic ADHD stimulant medication use was found to be significantly associated with a subsequent diagnosis of testicular hypofunction.
Controlled formation of gold nanoparticles with tunable plasmonic properties in tellurite glass
Authors: Wei Yunle , Zhao Jiangbo , Fuhrmann Sindy , Sajzew Roman , Wondraczek Lothar , Ebendorff-Heidepriem Heike
Published: July 2023

Silicate glasses with metallic nanoparticles (NPs) have been of intense interest in art, science and technology as the plasmonic properties of the metallic NPs equip glass with light modulation capability. The so-called striking technique has enabled precise control of the in-situ formation of metallic NPs in silicate glasses for applications from coloured glasses to photonic devices. Over the past two decades, there has been a large amount of work to adapt the striking technique to form gold or silver NPs in tellurite glasses that exhibit the unique combination of easy fabrication, low phonon energy, wide transmission window and high solubility of luminescent rare earth ions. Nevertheless, the control of the in-situ formation of metal NPs and hence their plasmonic features in tellurite glasses has remained insufficient for photonic applications. Here, we first uncover the challenges of the traditional striking technique to create gold NPs in tellurite glass. Then, we demonstrate precise control of the size and concentration of gold NPs in tellurite glass by developing new approaches to both steps of the striking technique: a controlled gold crucible corrosion technique to incorporate gold ions in tellurite glass and a novel powder reheating technique to subsequently transform the gold ions to gold NPs. Using the Mie theory, the size, size distribution and concentration of the gold NPs formed in tellurite glass were determined from the plasmonic properties of the NPs. This fundamental research provides guidance to designing and manipulating the plasmonic properties in tellurite glass for photonics research and applications.
Functional activity and morphology of isolated rat cardiac mitochondria under calcium overload. Effect of naringin
Authors: Kavalenia T. A. , Lapshina E. A. , Ilyich T. V. , Zhao Hu-Cheng , Zavodnik I. B.
Published: July 2023

The role of calcium-dependent processes in cardiac physiology and pathophysiology as well as the function of mitochondria as a regulator of myocyte calcium homeostasis have been extensively discussed. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the mechanism(s) of modulation of respiratory activity, morphology, permeability transition, and membrane potential of rat cardiac mitochondria by exogenous Ca2+ ions in the absence or in the presence of the plant flavonoid glucoside naringin. Low free Ca2+ concentrations (40–250 nM) effectively inhibited the respiratory activity of rat heart mitochondria: decreased the rates of succinate-dependent V2 and ADP-stimulated V3 respiration, remaining unaffected the efficacy of oxygen consumption. In the presence of high exogenous Ca2+ ion concentrations (the free Ca2+ concentration was 550 µM), we observed a dramatic increase in mitochondrial heterogeneity in size and electron density that was connected with calcium-induced opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pores (MPTP) and membrane depolarization, observed at free Ca2+ concentrations of 150 to 750 µM. As compared to rat liver mitochondria, the sensitivity to Ca2+ of rat heart mitochondria was much lower in the case of MPTP opening and much higher in the case of respiration inhibition. Naringin, occurring naturally in citrus fruits, partially prevented Ca2+-induced rat cardiac mitochondrial morphological transformations (200 µM), dose-dependently inhibited the respiratory activity of mitochondria (10–75 µM) in the absence or in the presence of calcium ions and promoted membrane potential dissipation and mitochondria swelling in the absence of calcium ions but inhibited calcium-induced MPTP formation at higher concentrations (75 µM).
Developing clinical prediction models for nominal polytomous outcomes: a simulation study comparing available approaches
Authors: Pate Alexander , Riley Richard D , Sperrin Matthew , Calster Ben Van , Sergeant Jamie C , Peek Niels , Staa Tjeerd van , Mamas Mamas , Lip Gregory Y. H. , O'Flaherty Martin , Buchan Iain , Martin Glen P
Published: July 2023

Background There are numerous methods available to develop clinical prediction models to estimate the risks of a nominal polytomous outcome. A comprehensive evaluation of the most appropriate method has not yet been undertaken. We compared the predictive performance of a range of models in a simulation study and illustrate how to implement them with shrinkage in a clinical example. Methods Performance of models [One-versus-All with normalisation (OvA-N), One-versus-One with pairwise coupling (OvO-PC), two types of continuation ratio regression (c-ratio and c-ratio-all) and multinomial logistic regression (MLR)] was evaluated by calibration, discrimination and magnitude of overfitting. We considered two data generating mechanisms and 4 underlying data structures to allow us to evaluate how robust each method was to model mis-specification. Results At large sample sizes OvO-PC and MLR had comparative calibration across all scenarios. When the models were misspecified, MLR and OvO-PC had the best calibration, followed by c-ratio-all, and then c-ratio. Discrimination of all methods was similar across most scenarios, however c-ratio had poor discrimination in certain scenarios. At small sample sizes MLR and c-ratio had a similar level of overfitting, and OvO-PC suffered from the highest levels of overfitting. MLR and c-ratio-all had the best calibration, followed by OvO-PC and then c-ratio. OvA-N had the worst performance at both large and small sample sizes. Conclusions We recommend MLR for developing clinical predictions models for the prediction of polytomous outcomes as it was the most robust to model misspecification and suffered from the joint smallest levels of overfitting.
A Synergistic Self-Cleaning and Antibacterial studies of Photocatalytic Carbon Nitride/Polypyrrole Coated Cotton Fabrics for smart textile application
Authors: Meganathan Prathiba , Subbaiah Sounder , Selvaraj Lakshmi Manokari , Subramanian Venkatesh , Pitchaimuthu Sudhagar , Nagarajan Srinivasan
Published: July 2023

Smart fabrics are one of the progressing technologies in this era especially in the field of self-cleaning and stain removing applications. Recent years, photocatalyst based self-cleaning technology seek much attention in the fields of therapeutic textiles, athletic clothing, defense uniforms and outdoor material. In this present work, the carbon nitride (C3N4) blended with conducting polypyrrole polymer (PPY) were coated over cotton fabrics by modified pad-dry cure method. The C3N4/PPY composite coated cotton fabric shows enhanced photocatalytic degradation efficiency of 96.5% compared to individual coatings of C3N4 and PPY. The photocatalytic stain removal and self-cleaning properties of C3N4/PPY composite coated cotton fabric was successfully demonstrated by using various colored stain under simulated solar irradiation. Also, the C3N4/PPY composite coated cotton fabric exhibited excellent resistance to bacterial growth. The dual advantages of photocatalytic antibacterial activity and self-cleaning of C3N4/PPY composite coated cotton fabric led to sustainable, innovative textile applications with significant lower water consumption during washing process.
Ground beetles communities, diversity, biomass and traits in wooded pastures of Jura mountains
Authors: Zimmermann Erwan Edgar , Chittaro Yannick , Wieder Sandrine , Zemp Delphine Clara
Published: July 2023

Wooded pastures combine trees and pastures in an integrated land resulting from traditional silvopastoral practices. With their sparse tree cover, wooded pastures are expected to represent an ecotone between open area pastures and forests with potentially high species diversity, although this remains to be tested for animal groups including ground beetles. In this study, we aimed to characterise and compare species communities, diversity indices, biomass and ecological traits of ground beetles in wooded pastures, forests and non-wooded pastures. Pitfall traps were set up in 29 study sites located in the Swiss Jura mountains. Ground beetle communities in wooded pastures largely encompass those in open pastures and forests, although some species are found only in forests or open areas. Wooded pastures and open pastures have an equivalent species diversity level, which is significantly higher than the one in forests. Ground beetle diversity is positively correlated with the existence and surface of Biodiversity Promotion Areas. Areas with high tree cover (70–100%) favour brachypterous and hygrophilic species, whereas areas with reduced tree cover (0–20%) favour xerophilic and winged species. Ground beetles' size and biomass increase with tree cover. Wooded pastures are an important ecotone, ensuring a gradual change of land use systems between open areas and forests, where a wide range of species from both land use systems are found. This semi-natural habitat plays an important function in the conservation of ground beetles.
Magma convection in hybird granitic chamber and formation of cognate mafic enclaves
Authors: Zhang Hongbing , ZHOU Xuchen , LAI Shaocong , QIN Jiangfeng
Published: July 2023

Mafic enclaves in granite are generally considered to represent coeval mafic melts that derived from metasomatized mantle, which can provide key information about crust-mantle interaction. Zircon U-Pb dating indicate that the mafic enclaves (219 ± 4.6Ma) display identical ages with the host monzogranite (214 ± 2.8Ma). Detailed whole-rock chemistry and zircon Lu-Hf works for the Triassic Zhaishui pluton reveal a cognate origin. Both of them share similar trace element geochemistry and zircon Lu-Hf isotopic compositions (monzogranite: εHf(t)= -0.99 to + 1.98; mafic enclaves: εHf(t)= -0.45 to + 3.26), suggesting common source region. However, detailed mineral chemistry reveals different crytallization condition between the mafic enclaves and host monzogranite. The amphibole in mafic enclaves reveal higher temperature and pressure (757℃, 2.65kbar) than those of the host monzogranite (733℃,1.96kbar). The temperature and pressure (587℃, 0.95kbar) of the Biotite in t mafic enclaves are consistent with that of the host monzogranite (599℃, 1.08kbar). Apatite in the mafic enclaves display slightly higher volatile contents (0.72 wt.%) than those of the apatite in the monzogranite (0.66 wt.%). These results indicate that the mafic enclaves represent early mafic accumulation in hybird granitic chamber, subsequent convection in magma chamber resulted in the formation of the mafic enclaves.
Trawl Fishery Bycatch in Marine Protected Areas of the Northern Persian Gulf: A Case Study of Dayyer-Nakhiloo and Mond
Authors: Darvishi Khosrow , Kamrani Ehsan , Safaei Mohsen , Daliri Moslem , Owfi Fereydoon
Published: July 2023

This study investigates the composition of bycatch and the maturity status of some commercial fish caught by fishing boats equipped with shrimp trawls in the Dayyer-Nakhiloo and Mond marine protected areas in Bushehr, located in the north of the Persian Gulf. Cruises were conducted by fishing boats equipped with 27-foot length and 115-horsepower engines between August 18th and September 20th in 2020 and 2021. The trawl nets were made of polyamide (PA) and had mesh sizes of 50 mm in the body and 40 mm in the bag (STR). After 32 haulings, a total of 37 aquatic species were caught as bycatch. Greater lizardfish (Saurida tumbil), largescale tonguesole (Cynoglossus arel), blue swimming crab (Portunus segnis), whipfin silver-biddy (Gerres filamentosus), spotted sicklefish (Drepane punctata), elongate sole (Solea elongata), and orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) were the most frequently caught species in all seasons. The results of the bycatch weight showed that the highest and lowest amounts of bycatch weight were observed in the 18th and 3rd fishing operations in the Mond region, respectively, with 234 kg and 4 kg. Similarly, the highest and lowest amounts of catch per unit effort (CPUE) were observed in the 18th and 9th fishing operations in the Mond region, respectively, with 234 kg h-1 and 3.25 kg h-1. The bycatch to shrimp ratio (r) was computed as 2.32:1. The results of species dominance showed that Acanthopagrus arabicus (9.4%), Scomberomorus commerson (7.75%), and Saurida tumbil (6.05%) had the highest percentage of abundance during the study period. Length frequency data of commercial fish caught showed that Parastromateus niger (44.19%) and Acanthopagrus arabicus (33.81%) had the highest percentage of mature fish in the specimens, while Scomberomorus commerson and Epinephelus coioides had the highest percentage of immature fish (100%). Overall, the present study indicates that bottom trawling by fishing boats in Dayyer-Nakhiloo and Mond marine protected areas poses a threat to the biodiversity of the Persian Gulf. An efficient management approach is therefore essential to promote responsible fisheries in the region.