bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Representation of Racial and Ethnic Minoritized Groups in Preventive Intervention Research
Authors: BUCKLEY PAMELA , Murry Velma McBride , Gust Charleen J. , Ladika Amanda , Pampel Fred C.
Published: November 2022

Objective. Because racial and ethnic minoritized groups disproportionately represented essential workers and lacked equitable access to resources that mitigated exposure and mortality risk, the COVID-19 pandemic brought disparities to the forefront of public health, exacerbating existing discrepancies. These inequities highlight a pressing need for the prevention science field to investigate whether interventions promote equitable well-being, which served as the impetus for this study. We examined 885 programs with evaluations published from 2010-2021 and recorded in the Blueprints for Healthy Youth Development registry of preventive interventions.
Methods. Focusing on race and ethnicity but also tracking reporting of gender, location, and economic disadvantage, we conducted a descriptive analysis on the prevalence of culturally tailored interventions (i.e., those developed for specific populations) and reporting of sample characteristics. In addition, inferential analyses examined reporting time trends, as well as the relationship between study quality (i.e., methodological soundness, beneficial effects) and culturally tailored programs, and racial ethnic enrollment.
Results. Most studies were conducted in the U.S. (n=583). Two percent of programs were developed for Black or African American youth and four percent targeted Hispanic or Latino populations. For the 77% of studies that reported race, most enrollees were White (35%) followed by Black or African American (28%), and 31% were collapsed across racial categories or categorized with ethnicity, thus ignoring the intersectionality of race and ethnicity. In the 64% of studies that reported ethnicity, 32% of enrollees identified as Hispanic or Latino. Reporting did not improve over time, and there was no relationship between high quality evaluations and programs developed for racial ethnic minority groups, or samples with high proportions of racial ethnic enrollees.
Conclusions. Research gaps on racial and ethnic groups identified in this study indicate the need for improved representation and clear reporting to reduce disparities and improve the utility of preventive interventions.
Blood Profile of West African Dwarf Growing Bucks Fed Fungal Treated Megathyrsus Maximus and Brachiaria Decumbens Based Diets.
Authors: Idowu Oluwaseun Janet , Chaudhry Abdul Shakoor , Tanimowo Razaq Olaide , Adelusi Olusegun Oludotun , Ojo Victoria Olubunmi Aderemi , Akinyemi Stephen Boluwatife , Agboola Feranmi Oyinlola , Ogunsiji Racheal Tunmise
Published: November 2022

Fungal treated grasses can be used as a supplementary feed for ruminants during dry seasons. A total of 24 West African dwarf (WAD) growing bucks with the average weight of 7 kg were fed with fungal treated either Brachiaria decumbens (TBD) or Megathyrsus maximus var. ntchisii (TMMN) to investigate their effects on the animals’ blood profile. The goats were allocated to six dietary treatments in a completely randomized design. The diets were offered as a total mix ration (100%) with one of the two treated forages at one of three levels (0%, 20%, 30%). Additionally, each diet contained concentrate (50%) and cassava peels (either 50% or 30%, or 20%) to a total of 100%. These diets were fed to the animals for 21 days with 14 days adaptation and the last 7 days for data collection. It appeared that the diets significantly (P < 0.05) influenced some haematological and serum biochemical parameters. The fungal treated BD and MMN at 30% inclusion maintained the animals within the expected ranges of blood profiles, indicating no apparent threat to goat wellbeing. However, animals consuming TBD diet showed better health than those fed TMMN. Therefore, 30% inclusion of TBD can be used as an alternative feedstuff in ruminant diets during the dry season.
Profile of Positive Specific Immunoglobulin E to Aeroallergen among Sudanese Patients at Al-Rayan Laboratory from January 2019 to December 2020
Authors: Mohamedahmed Mohamed Hassan Osman , Salih Omaima Abdelmajeed Mohammed , Mustafa Alamin , Mohammed Hala Hamza Eltayeb , Hassan Malaz Elsadeg , Ahmed Rogaia Hasap Alrasoul
Published: November 2022

Introduction:
Aeroallergens are various airborne substances or inhalants, such as pollen, spores, and other biological or non-biological airborne particles that can cause allergic disorders. Inhalation or cutaneous contact with aeroallergens can trigger a release of proteins in the form of an allergic reaction on the skin and mucous membranes.
Methods: This study was a qualitative retrospective study conducted in the Al-Rayan lab in Khartoum state from January 2019 to December 2020. All records with positive specific IgE to aeroallergens have been collected from Al Rayan Laboratory center. The immunoblotting technique [Euroline food gulf (IgE)] detect the IgE antibody against specific aeroallergens
Result: . Ninety-nine participants were positive for the specific IgE test aeroallergens panel. Most of them were adults, and the mean age of the participants was 21.3 ± 16.3. The most prevalent aeroallergen was Timothy grass and Oak. Timothy grass was positive among (46.5%) of the patients, Cultivated rye, olive tree, and common ragweed were mainly positive in November. The test for Oak allergen came positive in November 2020, March 2020, and October 2019 with the respective percentages (64.3%, 85.7%,46.2%). The olive tree and common ragweed aeroallergen reactions came equally positive in November 2020 the most (57.1%). Moreover, the age of the participants was related to Dog and Horse aeroallergens. In addition to penicillium, children mainly tested positive for Dog, Horse aeroallergens at P values <0.05.
Conclusion:
This study demonstrates that the most common aeroallergens are Timothy grass and Oak, followed by cultivated rye.
VMD and Self-attention Mechanism Based Bi-LSTM Model for Fault Detection of Optical Fiber Composite Submarine Cables
Authors: Lu Jie , Feng Wenjiang , Li Yuan , Zhang Juntao , Zou Yongqi , Li Jingfu
Published: November 2022

As the main electrical equipment of offshore power grids, optical fiber composite submarine cables undertake the task of power transmission and data communication. In order to ensure the proper functioning of the submarine cable, it is necessary to analyze the working state of it and identify and locate the fault event. This paper proposes a fault detection method for submarine cables, that is, the VMD and self-attention based Bi-LSTM model. First, we use the ANSYS software to generate the vibration waveforms of three main fault events of optical fiber composite submarine cables. Then by generating the detection matrix of additive white gaussian noise (AWGN) and the vibration waveforms, it can realize the orientation and detection of fault events in single submarine cable. In addition, the vibration signal can be decomposed into IMF components using variational mode decomposition (VMD) for feature extraction. Moreover, the IMF components are input to the self-attention layer for feature fusion and Bi-LSTM module for further feature extraction. Finally, the result of the fault detection is output through the classification layer. According to the comparative experiment and ablation experiment, the proposed model has proved to outperform the other benchmark models and is robust and stable under the condition of different signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs).
Development and Validation of a Model for early Diagnosing Biliary Atresia.
Authors: Gong Zongrong , Lu Gen , Wan Chaomin
Published: November 2022

Background and aims: Early diagnosis of biliary atresia (BA), particularly distinguishing it from other causes of neonatal cholestasis (NC), is challenging. This study aimed to design and validate a predictive model for BA by using the data available at the initial presentation.
Methods: Infants presenting with NC were retrospectively identified from tertiary referral hospitals and constituted the model design cohort (n=148), and others were enrolled in a prospective observational study and constituted the validation cohort (n=21). Clinical, laboratory, and abdominal ultrasonographic features associated with BA were assessed. A prediction model was developed using logistic regression and decision tree (DT) analyses.
Results: Three predictors, namely, gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (γGT) level, triangular cord sign (TC sign), and gallbladder abnormalities were identified as the factors to diagnose BA in multivariate logistic regression, which was used to develop the DT model. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) value for the model was 0.905, which was greater than those for γGT level, TC sign, or gallbladder abnormalities alone in the prediction of BA.
Conclusion: A simple prediction model combining liver function and abdominal ultrasonography findings can provide an accurate and early estimate of the risk of BA in patients with NC.
Comparation of in vitro fibril-forming properties and antioxidant activities of collagen extracted from four by-products (skin, fin, cartilage, notochord) of sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedti)
Authors: Meng Dawei , Wei Qiwei , Takagi Yasuaki , Dai Zhiyuan , Zhang Yan
Published: November 2022

To efficient utilize sturgeon by-products, we clarified and compared the structural and biological properties of collagens extracted from fin, skin, notochord, and cartilage of sturgeon. The structural properties of collagen were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and FTIR. The in vitro biological properties of four sturgeon collagen were evaluated from fibril-forming ability of collagen molecule and the antioxidant activity of low molecular collagen peptides. Collagen fibril-forming ability and morphology were detected by turbidity assay and SEM observation. The antioxidant activities of collagen peptides were determined by Hydroxyl and ABTS radical scavenging assay. SDS-PAGE results showed that the main type of skin and fin collagen was attributed to type I collagen, and that of cartilage and notochord collagen was attributed to type II collagen. FTIR results revealed four collagens maintained intact triple helical structure. Type II collagens could self-assemble into fibrils only at low phosphate ion concentration, whereas type I collagens could self-assemble into fibrils at long range of phosphate ion concentration. The fibril diameter of type I collagen was higher than that of type II collagen. The antioxidant activity of notochord and skin collagen peptides was higher than that of the other two collagen peptides. The results of this study will provide helpful information for the application of sturgeon collagen in the functional food and biomedical material industries. Meanwhile, it will promote the effective use of collagen from different sturgeon by-products.
A novel thrombospondin-1 transcript exhibits distinctive expression and activity in thyroid tumorigenesis
Authors: Baek Seung Joon , Hong Yukyung , Kim Ilju , Moon Hyunjin , Lee Jaehak , Lertpatipanpong Pattawika , Ryu Chang Hwan , Jung Yuh-Seog , Seok Jungirl , Kim Yonghwan , Ryu Junsun
Published: November 2022

Thrombospondin 1 (TSP1) is known for its cell-specific functions in cancer progression, such as proliferation and migration. It contains 22 exons that may potentially produce several different transcripts. Here, we identified TSP1V as a novel TSP1 splicing variant produced by intron retention (IR) in human thyroid cancer cells and tissues. We observed TSP1V functionally inhibited tumorigenesis contrary to TSP1 wild-type (TSP1W), as identified by in vivo and in vitro. These activities of TSP1V caused by inhibiting p-Smad and p-FAK. RT-PCR and minigene experiments revealed that some phytochemicals/non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) enhanced IR. We further found that RNA binding motif protein 5 (RBM5) suppressed IR, induced by sulindac sulfide treatment. Sulindac sulfide also reduced p-RBM5 in a time dependent manner. On the other hand, trans-chalcone demethylated TSP1V, thereby preventing MeCP2 binding to TSP1V gene. In addition, TSP1V levels were significantly lower in patients with DTC, but not in those with BTN, indicating its potential application as a diagnostic biomarker in tumor progression.
Development of a Low-Cost Insulin Infusion Pump Simulator:A Case Study with a Brazilian Company
Authors: Rocha Felipe dos Santos , Martins Luiz Eduardo Galvão , de Oliveira Tiago , Aredes Sebastião Vagner , Dib Sergio Atala , Casarini Dulce Elena , Colucci Juliana Almada , Gabbay Monica Andrade Lima , Cunha Tatiana Sousa
Published: November 2022

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present and illustrate the development of a low-cost insulin infusion pump simulator. Methods: The simulation was written entirely using Java programming language, reproducing the appearance and functions of a low-cost insulin infusion pump. Later, the participants were invited to participate in a remote session and based on the results of a standard usability scale (SUS), it was possible to draw the assessment and check the system’s readiness. Results: By means of a sample size of 34 participants with different levels of knowledge on diabetes and infusion pumps, we found an average SUS score of 67.43, which is not directly linked to previous knowledge of the users. Conclusion: Although the insulin infusion pump is a complex and highly dedicated equipment, and its system may seem unfamiliar at first, the usability score found is satisfactory and with proper training and clinical support it may be improved, enabling the equipment to fulfill its purpose efficiently. Significance: The use of a simulation model during the development of an insulin infusion pump prototype may bring some benefits, paving the way for a well-defined, robust and safe system, improving the delivery of health care technologies and increasing patient safety.
Hysterectomy and risk of epithelial ovarian cancer by histologic type, endometriosis, and menopausal hormone therapy
Authors: Ring Linea Landgrebe , Baandrup Louise , Gottschau Mathilde , Dehlendorff Christian , Mellemkjær Lene , Kjaer Susanne K.
Published: November 2022

Purpose
This nationwide, register-based case-control study investigated the association between hysterectomy and risk of epithelial ovarian cancer according to histology and by history of endometriosis and MHT use.
Methods
From the Danish Cancer Registry, all women registered with epithelial ovarian cancer during 1998‒2016 were identified (n = 6,738). Each case was sex- and age-matched to 15 population controls using risk-set sampling. Information on previous hysterectomy on benign indication and potential confounders was retrieved from nationwide registers. Conditional logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between hysterectomy and ovarian cancer according to histology, endometriosis, and use of MHT.
Results
Hysterectomy was not associated with risk of epithelial ovarian cancer overall (OR = 0.97; 95% CI 0.88‒1.06) but was associated with reduced risk of clear cell ovarian cancer (OR = 0.47; 95% CI 0.28‒0.78). In stratified analyses, decreased ORs associated with hysterectomy were seen in women with endometriosis (OR = 0.73; 95% CI 0.50‒1.09) and in non-users of MHT (OR = 0.87; 95% CI 0.76‒1.00).
Conclusion
Hysterectomy was not associated with epithelial ovarian cancer overall but with reduced risk of clear cell ovarian cancer. Our findings may suggest a reduced risk of ovarian cancer after hysterectomy in women with endometriosis and in MHT non-users, but the statistical precision of our results did not allow firm conclusions.
KAT8-catalyzed lactylation contributes to eEF1A2-mediated protein synthesis and colorectal carcinogenesis
Authors: Xie Bingteng , Zhang Mengdi , Li Jie , Cui Jianxin , Zhang Pengju , Liu Fangming , Deng Weiwei , Ma Jihong , Li Xinyu , Pan Bingchen Pan , Zhang Baohui , Zhang Hongbing , Luo Aiqin , Xu Yinzhe , Li Mo , Pu Yang
Published: November 2022

As an emerging metabolite-mediated post-translational modification, lysine lactylation (Kla) is discovered on histones that regulates gene transcription from chromatin. However, whether lactylation could occur outside the nucleus across broad proteins and its regulatory enzymes remains unclear. Here, we observe global Kla occurs in both nucleus and cytoplasm in colorectal cancer (CRC), and negatively correlates with its prognosis. Among the lactylated proteins in CRC, we find eEF1A2, a fundamental protein in translation elongation, is hyperlactylated at its lysine 408 (K408). The lactylation of eEF1A2K408 results in increased translation elongation rates and elevated protein synthesis in line with CRC cells proliferation. By screening eEF1A2 interacted proteins, we identify KAT8 as a pan-Kla writer which is responsible for installing Kla on many proteins in diverse biological processes, notably in tumorigenic signaling pathways. Deletion of KAT8 effectively decreases CRC tumor growth especially in high-lactic tumor microenvironment, which associates with reduced KAT8-mediated Kla. Together, our work uncovers that KAT8 catalyzes broad lactylation as a lactyltransferase which could be a potential target for CRC and the KAT8-eEF1A2 Kla axis is a novel mechanism for cancer adaptation to increased translational requirements.
Assessing the changes in protein content during the ensilage of the Indian mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta) by biological method
Authors: Mahale Adhira , Khandeparker Rakhee , Gauthankar Mukund , Paingankar Mandar , R.A. Sreepada
Published: November 2022

Fish silage is a liquefied product resulting from tissue hydrolysis and the richness of the silage is characterized by its nutritional profile comprising of proteins, amino acids, and fats. For the production of fish silage of high nutritional value, a precise assessment of the degree of hydrolysis, particularly proteolysis becomes a paramount importance. The goal of this study is to assess the changes in protein content in fish silage prepared from the Indian mackerel, (Rastrelliger kanagutra) waste using 10% (v/w) sugarcane molasses, during 8 days of fermentation (DoF). The resultant ensiled product was evaluated for changes in titratable acidity, nutrients, total protein, total carbohydrate, total lipids content, and amino acid composition. Altogether, 17 types of amino acids were identified. Concentrations of total amino acids (15.627 ± 0.03 mg/g) and free amino acids (5.556 ± 0.08 mg/g) peaked at the end of 6 DoF with the predominance of histidine, arginine, alanine, asparagine, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid. Results of the non-metric multidimensional scaling (nMDS) plots and one-way analysis of similarities (ANOSIM) test indicated significant differences in the composition of total amino acids at different DoF were discernible (nMDS, stress 0.03162, one-way ANOSIM R = 1; p < 0.0001). Similarity percentage (SIMPER) analysis indicated that maximum content of amino acids (TAA and FAA) were released in silage during 4–6 DoF. A significant difference was observed in concentrations of most amino acids except cysteine, serine, and tryptophan (ANOVA, p < 0.05) at 2,4,6 and 8 DoF. Considering the vital role played by amino acids in providing resistance to plant pathogens as well as contributing to animal nutritional supplements, the results of the present study are highly noteworthy.
GPs’ prescription patterns, experience, and attitudes towards medicinal cannabis - a nationwide survey in Denmark
Authors: Rosenbaek Frederik , Riisgaard Helle , Nielsen Jesper Bo , Wehberg Sonja , Waldorff Frans Bach , Pedersen Line Bjørnskov , Søndergaard Jens
Published: November 2022

Background: On 1 January 2018 a four-year test scheme concerning use of medicinal cannabis (MC) was enacted. It has recently been extended for four more years by the Danish Parliament permitting all Danish physicians to prescribe MC to their patients. Previous studies have shown that general practitioners (GPs) have varying prescription experience, little knowledge, and mixed attitudes about MC. However, the present evidence is still limited, and no studies exist about Danish GPs’ prescription experience, knowledge, and attitudes towards MC. Therefore, our aim was to examine Danish GPs’ prescription experience, knowledge, and attitudes towards MC.
Methods: A national online survey-based study addressing Danish GPs was performed from September 2018 to July 2019. We performed separate multivariable logistic regression analyses including GPs’ prescription experience, knowledge, and attitudes towards MC as outcome variables.
Results: A total of 427 (38.5%) of 1108 GPs completed the questionnaire. Of these, 37 (8.7%) had experience in prescribing MC. The majority had little or no knowledge about MC (80.6%) as well as a negative view on prescription of MC (71.4%) to patients. Factors associated with prescribing MC to patients were: Single-handed practices (OR=1.6, 95% CI 1.1;1.8) and perception of having quite some knowledge about MC (OR=4.8, 95% CI 2.2;10.4). Factors associated with having quite some knowledge about MC were: having a positive attitude towards prescribing MC (OR=5.2, 95% CI 1.9;14.0), being male (OR=1.7, 95% CI 1.4;1.8), and being at least 60 years of age (OR=2.8, 95% CI 1.3;6.0). Factors associated with having a positive attitude towards prescribing MC were: having quite some knowledge about MC (OR=5.2, 95% CI 2.2;12.5) and GPs being male (OR=1.7, 95% CI 1.1;1.9).
Conclusion: In this first study on prescription experience, knowledge, and attitudes about MC among Danish GPs, conducted one year after the Danish test scheme was enacted, we find a very low proportion of prescribers, little knowledge, and an overall negative attitude towards MC. Among the prescribing GPs, four in ten have little to no knowledge and a negative attitude towards MC. We stress that prescribing patterns, knowledge, and attitudes may change throughout the remaining time of the test scheme.
Practice reduces the costs of producing head fakes in basketball
Authors: Böer Nils Tobias , Weigelt Matthias , Schütz Christoph , Güldenpenning Iris
Published: November 2022

Previous research indicates that performing passes with a head fake in basketball leads to increased response initiation times and errors as compared to performing a pass without a head fake. These so-called fake production costs only occurred when not given the time to mentally prepare the deceptive movement. In the current study, we investigated if extensive practice could reduce the cognitive costs of producing a pass with head fake. Twenty-four basketball novices participated in an experiment on five consecutive days. A visual cue prompted participants to play a pass with or without a head fake either to the left or right side. The cued action had to be executed after an interstimulus interval (ISI) of either 0 ms, 400 ms, 800 ms or 1200 ms, allowing for different movement preparation times. Results indicated higher response initiation times (ITs) and error rates (ERs) for passes with head fakes for the short preparation intervals (ISI 0 ms and 400 ms) on the first day but no difference for the longer preparation intervals (ISI 800 ms and 1200 ms). After only one day of practice, participants showed reduced fake production costs (for ISI 0 ms) and were even able to eliminate these cognitive costs when given time to mentally prepare the movement (for ISI 400ms). Accordingly, physical practice can reduce the cognitive costs associated with head-fake generation. This finding is discussed against the background of the strengthening of stimulus response associations.
Comparison of DNA targeting CRISPR editors in human cells
Authors: Huang Hongxin , Lv Weiqi , Li Jinhe , Huang Guanjie , Tan Zhihong , Hu Yongfei , Ma Shufeng , Zhang Xin , Huang Linxuan , Lin Ying
Published: November 2022

Background Profiling and comparing the performance of current widely used DNA targeting CRISPR systems provide the basic information for the gene-editing toolkit and can be a useful resource for this field. Herein we made a parallel comparison between the recently reported miniature Cas12f1 and the widely used Cas12a and Cas9 nucleases in mammalian cells.
Results We found that as a CRISPRa activator, Un1 Cas12f1 could induce gene expression with a comparable level to these of Cas12a and Cas9, while as a cleaving editor, Cas12f1 exhibited similar properties to Cas12a, like high specificity and dominantly induced deletions over insertions, but with less activity. In contrast, wild type SpCas9 showed the highest activity, lowest specificity, and induced balanced deletions over insertions. Thus, Cas12 f1 is recommended for gene activation based applications, Cas12a is for therapy applications, and wild type Cas9 is for in vitro and animal investigations.
Conclusion The comparison provided the editing properties of current widely used DNA-targeting CRISPR systems for the gene-editing field.
External loads associated with Hockey5s: the new version of U16 youth field hockey
Authors: Konarski Jan M. , Andrzejewski Marcin , Konefał Merek , Chmura Paweł , Skrzypczak Mateusz , Zahalka Frantisek , Maly Tomas , Malina Robert M.
Published: November 2022

External workloads associated with a new version of youth field hockey, Hockey5s, were evaluated in a sample of 31 elite male field players (15.4 ± 0.7 years; 174.2 ± 8.24 cm; 63.5 ± 8.03 kg). Players were members of U16 National Youth Field Hockey Teams. The total sample included 76 players with 33 forwards and 43 defenders. Activities of the players were monitored using the GPSports SPI Elite System (Australia) with a sampling frequency of 10Hz; the data were analysed using GPSports Team AMS (version R1 2015.14, Australia). Defenders achieved significantly higher maximal speed than forwards. Among all players regardless of field positions, the three periods of the match were differentiated only by the number of sprints. By playing position, differences were only found among forwards in the total number of sprints, sprint numbers per minute, maximum speed, and a high metabolic load distance. The active time of players in both positions was approximately 50% (~ 15.7 of 30min). Overall, the Hockey 5s format was highly demanding for players, suggesting a need for preparation that includes specific mixed anaerobic and aerobic training. The Hockey5s format also allowed relatively short time for recovery, which emphasized the importance of rest during inter-match breaks.
Influence of extrusion method on the microstructure and mechanical properties of formed magnesium alloy tubes
Authors: Zhao Hui , Hu Hong-jun , Liang Peng-cheng
Published: November 2022

In this study, a tube extrusion-shear-expand (TESE) process is proposed for the preparation of thin-walled tubes of high-performance magnesium alloys, and a comparison with direct extrusion(DE) is used to verify the superiority of the new process. Numerical simulations of the mesh variation, forming load, and equivalent strain during the forming of magnesium alloy tubes were carried out in combination with DEFORM-3D software. The results of the study show that: under the TESE process, the equivalent strain and the forming load are larger, which makes the plastic deformation of the tube larger; the grain refinement effect of the tube prepared under the TESE process is more obvious than that of the DE; the yield strength of the tube under the TESE process is about 293MPa, the elongation is about 15%, and the base structure dispersion is higher under the dynamic recrystallization and larger shear effect, the strength is obviously weakened, and the comprehensive performance of magnesium alloy tube is improved.
Establishment and analysis of feasibility evaluation system and ultra-precision manufacturing technology for small aperture free-form surface optical element
Authors: Li Shijie , Huang Yuetian , Zhao Fengyuan , Yang Chen , Zhang Jin , Liang Haifeng , Cai Changlong , Liu Weiguo
Published: November 2022

Free-form optical elements are more and more broadly used in modern optical systems due to their distinctive characteristics. In order to realize the high precision manufacturing of free-form optical element, the constraints on parameters of manufacture and measurement were established based on the designing parameters of free-form optical element. Meanwhile, the evaluation system for the machinability and detectability of free-form optical element were obtained by means of the corresponding mathematical model. Furthermore, the White Light Interference (WLI) stitching detection technology, coupled with the least square multi-parameter optimization algorithm, was used to solve shape-error measurement of free-form optical element. Additionally, a free-form surface compensation manufacturing mechanism of asymmetric shape error was established. Based on the above methods, the polynomial free-form optics were processed and measured. According to the surface shape measurement results, the same element was processed with compensation manufacturing twice. The surface shape precision was obviously improved from PV = 2553nm and RMS = 481nm to PV = 214nm and RMS = 19.9nm, which verified the effectiveness of the method. A significant value was unfolded in the engineering application of this method.
Antimicrobial peptide moricin induces ROS mediated caspase-dependent apoptosis in human triple negative breast cancer via suppression of notch pathway
Authors: Ahmad Imran , Pal Saurabh , Singh Ranjana , Ahmad Khursheed , Dey Nilanjan , Siddiqui Sahabjada , Srivast Aditi
Published: November 2022

Several studies have identified the antibacterial properties of moricin peptides. However, the anticancer potential and, mechanistic insights into moricin peptide-induced cancer cell death have not yet been explored. Therefore, using in silico, analytical methods (Reverse Phase-high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC), mass spectroscopy (MS), and circular dichroism (CD), and in vitro studies, an investigation has been carried out to delineate the mechanism(s) of moricin-induced cancer cell death. In-silico analysis was performed to predict the anticancer potential of moricin in cancer cells by using AntiCP and ACP servers based on a Support Vector Machine (SVM). Additionally, molecular docking was performed to predict the moricin peptide-related cancer signalling pathway(s). In vitro studies were performed using MDA-MB-231 cells. We observed that moricin exposure at relatively low concentrations (6.25 µg/ml or 1.37µM and 12.5 µg/ml or 2.75µM) to MDA-MB-231 cells caused a higher generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (notably superoxide radical (O2•–). Moricin exposure caused down regulation in the expression of Notch-1 and, NFƙB and Bcl2 proteins, while ROS-induced upregulation of P53 caused caspase-dependent cell death in MDA-MB-231 cells. In conclusion, this study reveals the anticancer potential and underlying mechanism of moricin peptide-induced cell death in cancer cells.
OLID-BR: Offensive Language Identification Dataset for Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: Trajano Douglas , Bordini Rafael , Vieira Renata
Published: November 2022

Social media has transformed the way society is connect. Although there are many advantages to such large scale connection, there are unquestionable drawbacks, for example in the way fake news is easily spread and in particular the vast dissemination of hate speech. Identifying offensive comments is a critical task for ensuring the safety of users, which is why industry and academia have been working on developing solutions to this problem. Previous work on the automatic detection of offensive comments focuses mainly on English, with very little work for languages such as Portuguese. In this paper, we present a new dataset for toxicity detection in Portuguese containing 6,354 (extendable to 13,538) comments annotated using a hierarchical scheme with multiple levels of granularity, which gives us the possibility of training models for multiple NLP tasks. The dataset is used to train machine learning models which can be useful to identify several aspects of hate speech. The results of the experiments show that the dataset is useful in the development of intelligent systems for the detection of offensive comments in Portuguese.
Characterization and genome analysis of a novel phage Kayfunavirus TM1
Authors: Han Kaiou , Mao Xinyu , Liu Hui , Wu Yuxing , Tan Yizhou , Li Ziyong , Ma Runwen , Li Yinan , Li Lei , Wang Leping , Shi Yan , Cao Yajie , Peng Hao , Li Xun , Wang Xiaoye
Published: November 2022

Escherichia coli is a common conditional pathogen, for which Antibiotic therapy is considered an effective treatment. The imprudent use of antibiotics has led to the increase of multiple-antibiotic-resistant E. coli species. With the incidence of antibiotic resistance reaching a crisis point, it is imperative to find alternative treatments for multidrug-resistant (MDR) infections. Using phage for pathogen control is a promising treatment option to combat bacterial resistance. In this study, a novel virulent Podoviridae phage Kayfunavirus TM1 infecting Escherichia coli was isolated from pig farm sewage in Guangxi, China. The one-step growth curve with the optimal multiplicity of infection of (MOI) 0.01 revealed a latent period of 10 min and a burst size of 50 plaque-forming units (pfu) per cell. The stability test reveals that it is stable at 4℃–60℃ and pH 3–11. The double-stranded DNA genome of phage Kayfunavirus TM1 is composed of 39,948 bp with a GC content of 50.03%.
Effects of Myocardial Sheetlet Sliding on Left Ventricular Function
Authors: Zheng Yu , Chan Wei Xuan , Nielles-Vallespin Sonia , Scott Andrew D. , Ferreira Pedro F. , Leo Hwa Liang , Yap Choon Hwai
Published: November 2022

Left ventricle myocardium has a complex micro-architecture, which was revealed to consist of myocyte bundles arranged in a series of laminar sheetlets. Recent imaging studies demonstrated that these sheetlets re-orientate and likely slide over each other during the deformations between systole and diastole, and that sheetlet dynamics were altered during cardiomyopathy. However, the biomechanical effect of sheetlet sliding is not well-understood, which is the focus here. We conducted finite element (FE) simulations of the left ventricle (LV) coupled with a Windkessel lumped parameter model to study sheetlet sliding, based on cardiac MRI of a healthy human subject, and modifications to account for hypertrophic and dilated geometric changes during cardiomyopathy remodeling. We modelled sheetlet sliding as a reduced shear stiffness in the sheet-normal direction, and observed that (1) the diastolic sheetlet orientations must depart from alignment with the LV wall plane in order for sheetlet sliding to have an effect on cardiac function, that (2) sheetlet sliding modestly aided cardiac function of the healthy and dilated hearts, in terms of ejection fraction, stroke volume, and systolic pressure generation, but its effects were amplified in hypertrophic/thickened walls, and that (3) where sheetlet sliding aided cardiac function, it increased tissue stresses, particularly in the myocyte direction. We speculate that sheetlet sliding is a tissue architectural adaptation to allow easier deformations of thick LV walls so that LV wall stiffness will not hinder function, and to provide a balance between function and tissue stresses. A limitation here is that sheetlet sliding is modelled as a simple reduction in shear stiffness, without consideration of micro-scale sheetlet mechanics and dynamics.
The non-Haplochromis fish fauna in Uganda: an update on the distribution and a review of data gaps
Authors: Akoth Dorothy , Natugonza Vianny , Efitre Jackson , Muyodi Fredrick Jones , Musinguzi Laban
Published: November 2022

Freshwater fishes are the second most threatened group of vertebrates after amphibians. In most developing countries, the conservation of freshwater fishes is largely hampered by limited information and data. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List assessments provide a benchmark for conservation and development planning, but these assessments require, inter alia, quantitative information on the species range in the wild. This information is largely missing for many species that face extinction. In this paper, we combined species occurrence data, expert knowledge, and literature to review and update the distribution of non-Haplochromis fish species native to Uganda and determine their geographical extent relative to the global range. Results showed that (i) at least 110 non-Haplochromis species occur in Uganda, (ii) the current status in the entire native range for more than 60% of these species is unknown; (iii) five species previously known to occur in Uganda: Amphilius kivuensis, Bagrus degeni, Marcusenius macrolepidotus, Petrocephalus catostoma, and Lacustricola pumilus lack a native locus and hence not Ugandan fishes, (iv) 17 species occur in areas beyond their previously known range, and therefore, their presence needs further investigations, preferably by examining specimen collections, and (v) majority of the non-Haplochromis species native to Uganda have a wide distribution outside the national boundaries. We anticipate this information to be relevant both for the national and global IUCN Red List assessments for the non-Haplochromis fishes in Uganda. Furthermore, the identified data gaps will be relevant in prioritizing limited resources during surveys and collections.
Gene expression analysis of a giant embryo rice mutant with high GABA content
Authors: Chen Pingli , Liu Qing , Sun Bingrui , Lv Shuwei , Jiang Liqun , Zhang Jing , Mao Xingxue , Yu Hang , Chen Yangyang , Chen Wenfeng , Fan Zhilan , Pan Dajain , Li Chen
Published: November 2022

Gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) is a natural non-protein amino acid involved in plant stress, signal transmission, carbon and nitrogen balance, and other physiological effects in plants. In the human body, it has the effects of lowering blood pressure, anti-aging, and activating the liver and kidney. However, there are few studies on the molecular regulation mechanism of genes in the metabolic pathways of GABA during grain development of giant embryo rice with high GABA content. In this study, three glant embryo (ge) mutants of different embryo sizes were obtained by CRISPR/Cas9 knockout, and it was found that GABA, protein, crude fat, and various mineral contents of the ge mutants were significantly increased. RNA-seq and qRT-PCR analysis showed that in the GABA shunt and polyamine degradation pathway, the expression levels of most of genes encoding enzymes promoting GABA accumulation were significantly upregulated in the ge-1 mutant, while the expression levels of most of genes encoding enzymes conducive to GABA degradation were significantly downregulated in the ge-1 mutant. This is most likely responsible for the significant increase in GABA content of the ge mutant. These results are helpful in revealing the molecular regulatory network of GABA metabolism in giant embryo rice and provide a theoretical basis for the study of its development mechanisms, which is conducive to the rapid cultivation of GABA-rich rice varieties, promoting human nutrition, and ensuring health.
A novel analytic model for sealing performance of static metallic joint considering the yield hardening effect
Authors: Deng Lichuan , Luo Bin , Zhang Kaifu , Cheng Hui , Ye Xiangrui , Liang Biao
Published: November 2022

The static metallic joints’ sealing performance is deeply impacted by the plastic deformation and the interfacial separation of the contact surfaces with self-affine roughness. The yield hardening effect, unavoidable at the contact interface, is of vital importance to the plastic deformation and the distribution of the interfacial separation. However, most of the previous research ignores the effect of the yield hardening, assuming that the contact surfaces are elastic-perfectly plastic. To address the problem, a novel analytic model for investigating the sealing performance under the effect of yield hardening has been developed in this paper. Utilizing the measured data of contact surfaces as input, the corresponding leakage rates are calculated. Besides, the contact stress distribution as well as the real contact area at the interface are also discussed. The sealing experiments are carried out accordingly, verifying that the proposed model owns the ability to predict the leakage rate under the effect of yield hardening.
In vitro selection, regeneration and characterization of NaCl-tolerant plants of Sapindus trifoliatus: an important multipurpose tree
Authors: Asthana Pooja , Rai Manoj K. , Jaiswal Uma
Published: November 2022

The present study demonstrates the selection of NaCl tolerant callus line and regeneration of NaCl tolerant plants of Sapindus trifoliatus L. from selected callus via somatic embryogenesis. Callus induced from leaf disc explants was subjected to the selection of NaCl-tolerant callus line on MS medium containing NaCl. The exposure of embryogenic callus to NaCl (0-250 mM) allowed the selection of callus to tolerate 100 mM NaCl, and it confirms with stability test by the three consecutive transfers of 100 mM NaCl tolerant callus to a medium devoid of NaCl and re-transfer to 100 mM NaCl supplemented medium. NaCl selected and non-selected embryogenic callus lines were characterized by the analysis of callus growth, tolerance index, and accumulation of both inorganic (Na+ and K+) and organic (proline, glycine betaine and soluble sugars) content. 100mM NaCl-tolerant callus showed the formation of globular structure, which differentiated different stages of somatic embryos on a maintenance medium containing NaCl (0-200mM). Mature cotyledonary stage somatic embryos developed from 100 mM NaCl tolerant globular structure were germinated on germination medium containing NaCl. About 67 and 38% NaCl tolerant somatic embryos were germinated on a medium without NaCl and containing 100 mM NaCl, respectively. NaCl tolerant plants developed on different germination medium with NaCl survived when transplanted to 0.2 or 0.3% (w/w) NaCl mixed potting mixture. Six-month-old established 100 mM NaCl tolerant plants were characterized by analyzing various physiological and biochemical parameters i.e., chlorophyll, carotenoid, L-proline content and antioxidative (MDA, SOD, CAT and APx) activities. The results suggest that in vitro selection technique offers an efficient way to develop NaCl tolerant plants of S. trifoliatus.
Effect of Thinning on Carbon Stocks in Sonneratia apetala Buch.-Ham Plantations: a Simulation Study
Authors: Arif Md. Arifuzzaman , Khan Md. Nabiul Islam , Biswas Rahul , Rahman Atikur , Islam Md. Akramul , Monika Asma-Ul-Husna
Published: November 2022

Background
Forests are very important for sequestering atmospheric carbon, and mangroves are amongst the most efficient carbon-sequestering ecosystems. In Bangladesh, several plantations of Sonneratia apetala have been raised, with large-scale plantations along the coastal belt. An individual-based model (KiWi model) was developed in order to analyze demographic processes in mangrove forests according to abiotic environmental factors, individual tree spacing, local tree-to-tree interactions, and intra-specific competition. In this study, we selected several silvicultural approaches (with or without thinning and with or without recruitment) to compare the development of planted forests in terms of forest management. Data obtained from the field monitors the output and parameterization of the model. Thinning normally avails more space and thus resources for growth, which leads to enhanced biomass increment. The objectives of this study were to identify the short-and long-term effects of thinning on carbon stocks in a mangrove plantation. Simulation experiments, tuned to observe the configurations of the study sites, provided a forecast of the stand development to be expected in the future.
Results
In this study, two thinnings were done at 15 and 20 years with a 0.5 m to 4.5 m radius while the annual sapling recruitment rate was kept at zero during thinning. Among the different thinning radii, 3.5 m radius thinning shows maximum aboveground carbon stocks in Sonneratia apetala, which is comparable to the 1.8 m stick radius thinning practised in Matang Mangrove, Malaysia for Rhizophora apiculata. In the case of Bangladesh coastal plantation, 2.5 m and 3.0 m thinning radius are perfect because 2.5 m and 3.0 m thinning radius contain an adequate number of trees and also produce above-ground carbon as much as 3.5 m thinning radius.
Conclusions
This experiment strongly supports that the KiWi model can mimic real dynamic growth patterns and thinning has an effect on carbon stock Simulation experiments, tuned to observe configurations of the study sites, provided a forecast of the stand development to be expected in the future.
Circ_0027885 sponges miR‐203‐3p to regulate RUNX2 expression and alleviates osteoporosis progression
Authors: Fang Shuhua , Cao Dingwen , Wu Zhanpo , Chen Jie , Huang Yafei , Shen Ying , Gao Zengxin
Published: November 2022

Background
Osteoporosis (OP) is a progressive metabolic disorder that is difficult to cure clinically. The molecular mechanisms of OP are urgently needed to be further examined. This study was designed to explore the potential function of circ_0027885 during osteogenic differentiation, as well as the systematical interactions among circ_0027885, miR-203-3p and runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2).
Methods
Relative levels of circ_0027885, miR-203-3p and RUNX2 were analyzed with RT-qPCR and western blotting. Alizarin red staining was performed to detect the mineralization ability under the control of circ_0027885 and miR-203-3p. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was conducted to examine the combination among circ_0027885, miR-203-3p and RUNX2.
Results
Our research exhibited that circ_0027885 was significantly increased during hBMSCs differentiation. Overexpression of circ_0027885 notably facilitated osteogenic differentiation and upregulated RUNX2 expression, while knockdown of circ_0027885 reversed the above results. Through prediction on bioinformatics analysis, miR-203-3p was the target binding circ_0027885, and RUNX2 was the potential target of miR-203-3p. Subsequently, these changes induced by the overexpression of circ_0027885 were reversed upon addition of miR-203-3p mimic.
Conclusions
Circ_0027885 could sponge miR-203-3p to regulate RUNX2 expression and alleviate osteoporosis progression.
Dielectric Lined Waveguides for Low Loss Millimeter Wave and Terahertz Transmission
Authors: Thackston Kyle , Doane John , Anderson James , Chrayteh Mhamad , Hindle Francis
Published: November 2022

By coating the inside of an overmoded, smooth wall metallic waveguide with a thin dielectric layer, one can obtain similar boundary conditions to corrugated waveguides and achieve extremely low transmission loss propagating the HE11 mode. As presented here, dielectric lined waveguides are a cost-effective alternative to corrugated waveguides for broadband microwave transmission, particularly at frequencies above 300 GHz. A theoretical model provides an analytic method for computing attenuation. The propagation mode of a prototype dielectric lined waveguide is characterized using low power transmission measurements to analyze the beam radiated from the waveguide aperture. Results indicate HE11 mode purity of approximately 98%. Furthermore, we quantified attenuation with low power Fabry-Perot measurements, verifying low loss performance of the experimental prototype. These results demonstrate that dielectric lined waveguides could have applications in many fields demanding low attenuation millimeter and terahertz transmission, such as radar, high-frequency communication systems, THz dynamic nuclear polarization, and electron cyclotron heating in magnetically confined fusion experiments.