bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prioritized candidate causal haplotype blocks in plant genome-wide association studies
Authors: Wu Xing , Jiang Wei , Fragoso Christopher , Huang Jing , Zhou Geyu , Zhao Hongyu , Dellaporta Stephen
Published: October 2022

Genome wide association studies (GWAS) can play an essential role in understanding genetic basis of complex traits in plants and animals. Conventional SNP-based linear mixed models (LMM) that marginally test single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have successfully identified many loci with major and minor effects in many GWAS. In plant, the relatively small population size in GWAS and the high genetic diversity found in many plant species can impede mapping efforts on complex traits. Here we present a novel haplotype-based trait fine-mapping framework, HapFM, to supplement current GWAS methods. HapFM uses genotype data to partition the genome into haplotype blocks, identifies haplotype clusters within each block, and then performs genome-wide haplotype fine-mapping to prioritize the candidate causal haplotype blocks of trait. We benchmarked HapFM, GEMMA, BSLMM, GMMAT, and BLINK in both simulated and real plant GWAS datasets. HapFM consistently resulted in higher mapping power than the other GWAS methods in high polygenicity simulation setting. Moreover, it resulted in smaller mapping intervals, especially in regions of high LD, achieved by prioritizing small candidate causal blocks in the larger haplotype blocks. In the Arabidopsis flowering time (FT10) datasets, HapFM identified four novel loci compared to GEMMA’s results, and the average mapping interval of HapFM was 9.6 times smaller than that of GEMMA. In conclusion, HapFM is tailored for plant GWAS to result in high mapping power on complex traits and improved on mapping resolution to facilitate crop improvement.
Teflon promotes chromosomal recruitment of homolog conjunction proteins during Drosophila male meiosis
Authors: Kabakci Zeynep , Yamada Hiro , Vernizzi Luisa , Gupta Samir , Weber Joe , Sun Michael Shoujie , Lehner Christian F.
Published: October 2022

Meiosis in males of higher dipterans is achiasmate. In their spermatocytes, pairing of homologs into bivalent chromosomes does not include synaptonemal complex and crossover formation. While crossovers preserve homolog conjunction until anaphase I during canonical meiosis, an alternative system is used in dipteran males. Mutant screening in Drosophila melanogaster has identified teflon (tef) as being required specifically for alternative homolog conjunction (AHC) of autosomal bivalents. The additional known AHC genes, snm, uno and mnm, are needed for the conjunction of autosomal homologs and of sex chromosomes. Here, we have analyzed the pattern of TEF protein expression. TEF is present in early spermatocytes but cannot be detected on bivalents at the onset of the first meiotic division, in contrast to SNM, UNO and MNM (SUM). TEF binds to polytene chromosomes in larval salivary glands, recruits MNM by direct interaction and thereby, indirectly, also SNM and UNO. However, chromosomal SUM association is not entirely dependent on TEF, and residual autosome conjunction occurs in tef null mutant spermatocytes. The higher tef requirement for autosomal conjunction is likely linked to the quantitative difference in the amount of SUM protein that provides conjunction of autosomes and sex chromosomes, respectively. During normal meiosis, SUM proteins are far more abundant on sex chromosomes compared to autosomes. Beyond promoting SUM recruitment, TEF has a stabilizing effect on SUM proteins. Increased SUM causes excess conjunction and consequential chromosome missegregation during meiosis I after co-overexpression. Similarly, expression of SUM without TEF, and even more potently with TEF, interferes with chromosome segregation during anaphase of mitotic divisions in somatic cells, suggesting that the known AHC proteins are sufficient for establishment of ectopic chromosome conjunction. Overall, our findings suggest that TEF promotes alternative homolog conjunction during male meiosis without being part of the final physical linkage between chromosomes.
Spatial-temporal and phylogenetic analyses of epidemiologic data to help understand the modes of transmission of endemic typhoid fever in Samoa
Authors: Sikorski Michael J. , Ma Jianguo , Hazen Tracy H. , Desai Sachin N. , Tupua Siaosi , Nimarota-Brown Susana , Sialeipata Michelle , Rambocus Savitra , Ballard Susan A. , Valcanis Mary , Thomsen Robert E. , Robins-Browne Roy M. , Howden Benjamin P. , Naseri Take K. , Levine Myron M. , Rasko David A.
Published: October 2022

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi) is either widely distributed or proximally transmitted via fecally-contaminated food or water to cause typhoid fever. In Samoa, where endemic typhoid fever has persisted over decades despite water quality and sanitation improvements, the local patterns of S. Typhi circulation remain unclear. From April 2018-June 2020, epidemiologic data and GPS coordinates were collected during household investigations of 260 acute cases of typhoid fever, and 27 asymptomatic shedders of S. Typhi were detected among household contacts. Spatial and temporal distributions of cases were examined using Average Nearest Neighbor and space-time hotspot analyses. In rural regions, infections occurred in sporadic, focal clusters contrasting with persistent, less clustered cases in the Apia Urban Area. Restrictions to population movement during nationwide lockdowns in 2019–2020 were associated with marked reductions of cases. Phylogenetic analyses of isolates with whole genome sequences (n = 186) revealed one dominant genotype 3.5.4 (n = 181/186) that contains three Samoa-exclusive sub-lineages: 3.5.4.1, 3.5.4.2, and 3.5.4.3. Variables of patient sex, age, and geographic region were examined by phylogenetic groupings, and significant differences (p<0.05) associated genetically-similar isolates in urban areas with working ages (20–49 year olds), and in rural areas with age groups typically at home (<5, 50+). Isolates from asymptomatic shedders were among all three sub-lineages. Whole genome sequencing provided evidence of bacterial genetic similarity, which corroborated 10/12 putative epidemiologic linkages among cases and asymptomatic shedders, as well as 3/3 repeat positives (presumed relapses), with a median of one single nucleotide polymorphism difference. These findings highlight various patterns of typhoid transmission in Samoa that differ between urban and rural regions as well as genomic subtypes. Asymptomatic shedders, detectable only through household investigations, are likely an important reservoir and mobile agent of infection. This study advances a “Samoan S. Typhi framework” that supports current and future typhoid surveillance and control efforts in Samoa.
General intelligence and executive functioning are overlapping but separable at genetic and molecular pathway levels: An analytical review of existing GWAS findings
Authors: Ciobanu Liliana G. , Stankov Lazar , Schubert K. Oliver , Amare Azmeraw T. , Jawahar M. Catharine , Lawrence-Wood Ellie , Mills Natalie T. , Knight Matthew , Clark Scott R. , Aidman Eugene
Published: October 2022

Understanding the genomic architecture and molecular mechanisms of cognitive functioning in healthy individuals is critical for developing tailored interventions to enhance cognitive functioning, as well as for identifying targets for treating impaired cognition. There has been substantial progress in uncovering the genetic composition of the general cognitive ability (g). However, there is an ongoing debate whether executive functioning (EF)–another key predictor of cognitive health and performance, is separable from general g. To provide an analytical review on existing findings on genetic influences on the relationship between g and EF, we re-analysed a subset of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) from the GWAS catalogue that used measures of g and EF as outcomes in non-clinical populations. We identified two sets of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with g (1,372 SNPs across 12 studies), and EF (300 SNPs across 5 studies) at p<5x10-6. A comparative analysis of GWAS-identified g and EF SNPs in high linkage disequilibrium (LD), followed by pathway enrichment analyses suggest that g and EF are overlapping but separable at genetic variant and molecular pathway levels, however more evidence is required to characterize the genetic overlap/distinction between the two constructs. While not without limitations, these findings may have implications for navigating further research towards translatable genetic findings for cognitive remediation, enhancement, and augmentation.
Internal calibration for opportunistic computed tomography muscle density analysis
Authors: Smith Ainsley C. J. , Tse Justin J. , Waungana Tadiwa H. , Bott Kirsten N. , Kuczynski Michael T. , Michalski Andrew S. , Boyd Steven K. , Manske Sarah L.
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Muscle weakness can lead to reduced physical function and quality of life. Computed tomography (CT) can be used to assess muscle health through measures of muscle cross-sectional area and density loss associated with fat infiltration. However, there are limited opportunities to measure muscle density in clinically acquired CT scans because a density calibration phantom, allowing for the conversion of CT Hounsfield units into density, is typically not included within the field-of-view. For bone density analysis, internal density calibration methods use regions of interest within the scan field-of-view to derive the relationship between Hounsfield units and bone density, but these methods have yet to be adapted for muscle density analysis. The objective of this study was to design and validate a CT internal calibration method for muscle density analysis.

Methodology

We CT scanned 10 bovine muscle samples using two scan protocols and five scan positions within the scanner bore. The scans were calibrated using internal calibration and a reference phantom. We tested combinations of internal calibration regions of interest (e.g., air, blood, bone, muscle, adipose).

Results

We found that the internal calibration method using two regions of interest, air and adipose or blood, yielded accurate muscle density values (< 1% error) when compared with the reference phantom. The muscle density values derived from the internal and reference phantom calibration methods were highly correlated (R2 > 0.99). The coefficient of variation for muscle density across two scan protocols and five scan positions was significantly lower for internal calibration (mean = 0.33%) than for Hounsfield units (mean = 6.52%). There was no difference between coefficient of variation for the internal calibration and reference phantom methods.

Conclusions

We have developed an internal calibration method to produce accurate and reliable muscle density measures from opportunistic computed tomography images without the need for calibration phantoms.
Glycyrrhizin through liquorice intake modulates ACE2 and HMGB1 levels—A pilot study in healthy individuals with implications for COVID-19 and ARDS
Authors: Buder Felix , Selejan Simina-Ramona , Hohl Mathias , Kindermann Michael , Herr Christian , Lepper Philipp M. , Bals Robert , Salzberger Bernd , Mahfoud Felix , Böhm Michael
Published: October 2022

Background

Glycyrrhizin, an active component of liquorice root extract, exhibits antiviral and immunomodulatory properties by direct inhibition of the pro-inflammatory alarmin HMGB1 (High-mobility group box 1).

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the role of liquorice intake on the viral entry receptor ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) and the immunoregulatory HMGB1 in healthy individuals and to explore HMGB1 expression in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) or non-COVID-19 in ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome patients).

Material and methods

This study enrolled 43 individuals, including hospitalised patients with i) acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to COVID-19 (n = 7) or other underlying causes (n = 12), ii) mild COVID-19 (n = 4) and iii) healthy volunteers (n = 20). Healthy individuals took 50 g of liquorice (containing 3% liquorice root extract) daily for 7 days, while blood samples were collected at baseline and on day 3 and 7. Changes in ACE2 and HMGB1 levels were determined by Western blot analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Additionally, HMGB1 levels were measured in hospitalised COVID-19 patients with mild disease or COVID-19 associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and compared with a non-COVID-19-ARDS group.

Results

Liquorice intake significantly reduced after 7 days both cellular membranous ACE2 expression (-51% compared to baseline levels, p = 0.008) and plasma HMGB1 levels (-17% compared to baseline levels, p<0.001) in healthy individuals. Half of the individuals had a reduction in ACE2 levels of at least 30%. HMGB1 levels in patients with mild COVID-19 and ARDS patients with and without COVID-19 were significantly higher compared with those of healthy individuals (+317%, p = 0.002), but they were not different between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 ARDS.

Conclusions

Liquorice intake modulates ACE2 and HMGB1 levels in healthy individuals. HMGB1 is enhanced in mild COVID-19 and in ARDS with and without COVID-19, warranting evaluation of HMGB1 as a potential treatment target and glycyrrhizin, which is an active component of liquorice root extract, as a potential treatment in COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 respiratory disease.
Incidence of circumcision among insured adults in the United States
Authors: Nabavizadeh Behnam , Li Kevin D. , Hakam Nizar , Shaw Nathan M. , Leapman Michael S. , Breyer Benjamin N.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Although circumcision is the most commonly performed surgery in males, less is known about the incidence and indications of adult circumcision. In this study, we aim to present the incidence of adult circumcision across the United States.

Methods

Using IBM MarketScan® Commercial Database from 2015 to 2018, we obtained claims for circumcision in men between 18 and 64 years of age. We calculated the incidence of adult circumcision over the study period and across the United States. We also collected data on indications for surgery using International Classification of Diseases codes.

Results

We identified a total of 12,298 claims for adult circumcisions. The mean age was 39 (±12.9) years. The average incidence rates remained relatively constant from 98.1 per 100,000 person-years in 2015 to 98.2 per 100,000 person-years in 2018 (Δ+0.1%). The age-standardized incidence rates varied significantly across the United States (from 0 to 194.8 per 100,000 person-years) with South Dakota having the highest rate. The most common indications for adult circumcision were phimosis (52.5%), routine/ritual circumcision (28.7%), phimosis + balanitis/balanoposthitis (6.8%), balanitis (3.8%) and balanoposthitis (2.6%), and significantly varied by age groups.

Conclusion

This study suggested a wide geographic variation in rates of adult circumcision between states with highest incidences in the Northeast United States. Future studies can identify the underlying causes for the observed variations.
An optimal method for calculating an average screw axis for a joint, with improved sensitivity to noise and providing an analysis of the dispersion of the instantaneous axes
Authors: Ancillao Andrea , Vochten Maxim , Verduyn Arno , De Schutter Joris , Aertbeliën Erwin
Published: October 2022

The instantaneous (ISA) and average (ASA) screw axes are techniques commonly adopted in motion analysis to functionally locate the rotation axis and center of rotation of a joint. Several approaches for calculating such axes were proposed in literature and the main limitations were identified as the need for using a threshold on angular displacements or velocities for handling the cases where the ISA is ill-defined and the need for a method for reliably estimating the center or rotation in limit cases, such as a purely rotational motion in the three-dimensional space. Furthermore, in many applications, such as in biomechanics, it is useful to statistically estimate the dispersion or variation of the ISA with respect to the ASA. In this paper we propose a novel method for estimating an ASA. Our method represents an improvement over previous methods as it: (i) exploits an optimization procedure based on the instantaneous differential kinematics (screw twist); (ii) removes the need for a threshold by introducing a weighting based on the norm of angular velocity; (iii) handles the singular cases where the position of the ASA is ill-defined by proposing a regularization term in the optimization. In addition, we proposed a method for estimating the uncertainty in the ASA calculation. The same quantities serve as a measure of the dispersion of the ISAs with respect to the ASA. The method was tested on real data and surrogate data: (i) a human gait analysis trial representing the motion of a knee, (ii) the experimental recording of the free swing motion of a mechanical hinge and (iii) synthetically generated motion data of a purely rotational (cylindrical) motion. The results showed that the new method had a lower sensitivity to noise, was able to reasonably handle the singular cases and provide a detailed analysis of ISA dispersion.
Accumulation of senescence observed in spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 mouse model
Authors: Miller William , Pruett Charles Lewis Humphrey , Stone William , Eide Cindy , Riddle Megan , Popp Courtney , Yousefzadeh Matthew , Lees Christopher , Seelig Davis , Thompson Elizabeth , Orr Harry , Niedernhofer Laura , Tolar Jakub
Published: October 2022

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 (SCA7) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by a trinucleotide CAG repeat. SCA7 predominantly causes a loss of photoreceptors in the retina and Purkinje cells of the cerebellum. Severe infantile-onset SCA7 also causes renal and cardiac irregularities. Previous reports have shown that SCA7 results in increased susceptibility to DNA damage. Since DNA damage can lead to accumulation of senescent cells, we hypothesized that SCA7 causes an accumulation of senescent cells over the course of disease. A 140-CAG repeat SCA7 mouse model was evaluated for signs of disease-specific involvement in the kidney, heart, and cerebellum, tissues that are commonly affected in the infantile form. We found evidence of significant renal abnormality that coincided with an accumulation of senescent cells in the kidneys of SCA7140Q/5Q mice, based on histology findings in addition to RT-qPCR for the cell cycle inhibitors p16Ink4a and p21Cip1 and senescence-associated ß-galactosidase (SA-ßgal) staining, respectively. The Purkinje layer in the cerebellum of SCA7140Q/5Q mice also displayed SA-ßgal+ cells. These novel findings offer evidence that senescent cells accumulate in affected tissues and may possibly contribute to SCA7’s specific phenotype.
The hypothalamic RFamide, QRFP, increases feeding and locomotor activity: The role of Gpr103 and orexin receptors
Authors: Cook Chris , Nunn Nicolas , Worth Amy A. , Bechtold David A. , Suter Todd , Gackeheimer Susan , Foltz Lisa , Emmerson Paul J. , Statnick Michael A. , Luckman Simon M.
Published: October 2022

Here we show that central administration of pyroglutamylated arginine-phenylamine-amide peptide (QRFP/26RFa) increases both food intake and locomotor activity, without any significant effect on energy expenditure, thermogenesis or reward. Germline knock out of either of the mouse QRFP receptor orthologs, Gpr103a and Gpr103b, did not produce a metabolic phenotype. However, both receptors are required for the effect of centrally administered QRFP to increase feeding and locomotor activity. As central injection of QRFP activated orexin/hypocretin neurons in the lateral hypothalamus, we compared the action of QRFP and orexin on behaviour. Both peptides increased arousal and locomotor activity. However, while orexin increased consummatory behaviour, QRFP also affected other appetitive behaviours. Furthermore, the feeding but not the locomotor response to QRFP, was blocked by co-administration of an orexin receptor 1 antagonist. These results suggest that QRFP agonism induces both appetitive and consummatory behaviour, but only the latter is dependent on orexin/hypocretin receptor signalling.
Expert-generated standard practice elements for evidence-based home visiting programs using a Delphi process
Authors: Haroz Emily E. , Ingalls Allison , Decker Sorby Karla , Dozier Mary , Kaye Miranda P. , Sarche Michelle , Supplee Lauren H. , Whitaker Daniel J. , Grubin Fiona , Daro Deborah
Published: October 2022

Background

States, territories, non-profits, and tribes are eligible to obtain federal funding to implement federally endorsed evidence-based home visiting programs. This represents a massive success in translational science, with $400 million a year allocated to these implementation efforts. This legislation also requires that 3% of this annual funding be allocated to tribal entities implementing home visiting in their communities. However, implementing stakeholders face challenges with selecting which program is best for their desired outcomes and context. Moreover, recent reviews have indicated that when implemented in practice and delivered at scale, many evidence-based home visiting programs fail to replicate the retention rates and effects achieved during clinical trials. To inform program implementers and better identify the active ingredients in home visiting programs that drive significant impacts, we aimed to develop an expert derived consensus taxonomy on the elements used in home visiting practice that are essential to priority outcome domains.

Methods

We convened a panel of 16 experts representing researchers, model representatives, and program implementers using a Delphi approach. We first elicited standard practice elements (SPEs) using open-ended inquiry, then compared these elements to behavior change techniques (BCTs) given their general importance in the field of home visiting; and finally rated their importance to 10 outcome domains.

Results

Our process identified 48 SPEs derived from the panel, with 83 additional BCTs added based on the literature. Six SPEs, mostly related to home visitor characteristics and skills, were rated essential across all outcome domains. Fifty-three of the 83 BCTs were rated unnecessary across all outcome domains.

Conclusions

This work represents the first step in a consensus-grounded taxonomy of techniques and strategies necessary for home visiting programs and provides a framework for future hypothesis testing and replication studies.
Prevalence and intensity of soil-transmitted helminths infection among individuals in model and non-model households, South West Ethiopia: A comparative cross-sectional community based study
Authors: Alemu Yonas , Degefa Teshome , Bajiro Mitiku , Teshome Getachew
Published: October 2022

Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) is a term used to refer to infections caused by intestinal worms mainly due to A. lumbricoides, T. trichiura, and hookworm species which are transmitted through contaminated soil. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence and intensity of STHs infection among individual members living within the selected household heads (HHs) certified either as a model HHs or non-model HHs based on the implementation level of a training program known as the Health Extension Program (HEP). A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2018 at Seka Chekorsa Woreda, Jimma zone. Model and non-model HHs were selected systematically from each of the randomly selected district villages employing a multistage sampling technique. Sociodemographic and risk factors data associated with STHs infections were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Parasitological stool sample microscopic examination was done using saline wet mount and Kato Katz thick smear technique. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software version 20 for descriptive statistics, comparison, and logistic regression at a p-value < 0.05 for statistical significance. Overall, 612 individuals were recruited in the study from 120 randomly selected HHs. The prevalence of STHs infections was found to be 32.4%. A total of 45 (14.7%) model and 153 (50.0%) non-model individual participants were positive for at least one species of STHs showing a significant difference between individuals in model and non-model HHs (AOR: 6.543, 95% CI; 4.36–9.82, P<0.001). The dominant STHs were T. trichiura (21.6%) followed by A. lumbricoides (6.4%) and hookworms (2.3%). The intensity of T. trichiura and A. lumbricoides infection have shown a significant difference (p<0.05) while hookworm species infection was not significantly different (p>0.05) for the individuals in the HHs groups. On the other hand, the households training status, age of participants, and latrine use pattern were found significant predictors of STHs infection prevalence in the multivariate analysis (P<0.05). Therefore, the prevalence and intensity of STHs infection was higher among individuals living in a non-model HHs than model HHs.
The inverse association of state cannabis vaping prevalence with the e-cigarette or vaping product-use associated lung injury
Authors: Boakye Ellen , El Shahawy Omar , Obisesan Olufunmilayo , Dzaye Omar , Osei Albert D. , Erhabor John , Uddin S. M. Iftekhar , Blaha Michael J.
Published: October 2022

The e-cigarette or vaping product-use-associated lung injury (EVALI) epidemic was primarily associated with the use of e-cigarettes containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)- the principal psychoactive substance in cannabis, and vitamin-E-acetate- an additive sometimes used in informally sourced THC-containing e-liquids. EVALI case burden varied across states, but it is unclear whether this was associated with state-level cannabis vaping prevalence. We, therefore, used linear regression models to assess the cross-sectional association between state-level cannabis vaping prevalence (obtained from the 2019 behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System) and EVALI case burden (obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) adjusted for state cannabis policies. Cannabis vaping prevalence ranged from 1.14%(95%CI, 0.61%-2.12%) in Wyoming to 3.11%(95%CI, 2.16%-4.44%) in New Hampshire. EVALI cases per million population ranged from 1.90(0.38–3.42) in Oklahoma to 59.10(19.70–96.53) in North Dakota. There was no significant positive association but an inverse association between state cannabis vaping prevalence and EVALI case burden (Coefficient, -18.6; 95%CI, -37.5–0.4; p-value, 0.05). Thus, state-level cannabis vaping prevalence was not positively associated with EVALI prevalence, suggesting that there may not be a simple direct link between state cannabis vaping prevalence and EVALI cases, but rather the relationship is likely more nuanced and possibly reflective of access to informal sources of THC-containing e-cigarettes.
Identification of suitable reference genes for normalization of reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) in the fibrotic phase of the bleomycin mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Norman Oula , Koivunen Jarkko , Mäki Joni M. , Pihlajaniemi Taina , Heikkinen Anne
Published: October 2022

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severe lung disease with a poor prognosis and few treatment options. In the most widely used experimental model for this disease, bleomycin is administered into the lungs of mice, causing a reaction of inflammation and consequent fibrosis that resembles the progression of human IPF. The inflammation and fibrosis together induce changes in gene expression that can be analyzed with reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR), in which accurate normalization with a set of stably expressed reference genes is critical for obtaining reliable results. This work compares ten commonly used candidate reference genes in the late, fibrotic phase of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and ranks them from the most to the least stable using NormFinder and geNorm.Sdha,Polr2aandHprtwere identified as the best performing and least variable reference genes when alternating between normal and fibrotic conditions. In order to validate the findings, we investigated the expression ofTnfandCol1a1, representing the hallmarks of inflammation and fibrotic changes, respectively. With the best three genes as references, both were found to be upregulated relative to untreated controls, unlike the situation when analyzed solely withGapdh, a commonly used reference gene. We therefore recommendSdha,Polr2aandHprtas reference genes for RT-qPCR in the 4-week bleomycin challenge that represents the late fibrotic phase.
Childbearing intentions, fertility awareness knowledge and contraceptive use among female university students in Cameroon
Authors: Akoku Derick Akompab , Achombwom Vukugah Thomas , Abena Tihnje Mbah , Bigweh Nzubepie Idris
Published: October 2022

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to examine the association between fertility awareness knowledge, and contraceptive use among sexually active female university students (FUS) in Cameroon.

Methods

This study was designed as a secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional survey that was conducted between July and August 2018. We extracted and analyzed relevant data (i.e., socio-demographic characteristics, sexual behavior, fertility-related characteristics, and contraceptive use) using a modified Poisson regression with a robust variance estimator. Prevalence Ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals were estimated, and statistical significance was set at P≤0.05.

Results

The median age of the sexually active FUS was 23 years (IQR = 21–25) and 99.3% indicated that they wanted to have children. Only 49.3% knew their fertile period and 62.5% of the sexually active FUS were current contraceptive users. We found a statistically significant association between fertility awareness knowledge and period abstinence (PR = 1.57;95%CI: 1.02–2.44, p = 0.049). In multivariate adjusted models, there was a statistically significant association between fertility awareness knowledge and male condom use (APR = 1.29; 95% CI:1.02–1.64, p-value = 0.032) and the withdrawal method (APR = 1.40;95% CI:1.02–1.93, p = 0.038). We found a statistically significant effect modification of “preferred timing to have children” on the association between fertility awareness knowledge and withdrawal method use. There was no association between fertility awareness knowledge and the use of oral contraceptive pills.

Conclusion

Most of the female students intend to have children in the future, but their fertility awareness knowledge was suboptimal. There was a statistically significant relationship between fertility awareness knowledge, and the use of male condoms and the withdrawal method. The study underscores the need for FUS to be targeted with interventions to help them gain knowledge of their menstrual cycle to better plan or avoid unwanted pregnancy.
Effectiveness of two extended-release buprenorphine formulations during postoperative period in neonatal rats
Authors: Zhang Mingyun , Alamaw Eden , Jampachaisri Katechan , Huss Monika , Pacharinsak Cholawat
Published: October 2022

Information on the effectiveness of a new long-lasting buprenorphine formulation, extended-release buprenorphine, in the neonatal rat is very limited. This study compares whether a high dose of extended-release buprenorphine (XR-Hi) attenuates thermal hypersensitivity for a longer period than a low dose of extended-release buprenorphine (XR-Lo) in a neonatal rat incisional pain model. Two experiments were performed. Experiment one: Male and female postnatal day-5 rat pups (n = 38) were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups and received a subcutaneous administration of one of the following: 1) 0.9%NaCl (Saline), 0.1 mL; 2) sustained release buprenorphine (Bup-SR), 1 mg/kg; 3) XR-Lo, 0.65 mg/kg; and 4) XR-Hi, 1.3 mg/kg. Pups were anesthetized with sevoflurane in 100% O2and a 5 mm long skin incision was made over the left lateral thigh and underlying muscle dissected. The skin was closed with surgical tissue glue. Thermal hypersensitivity testing (using a laser diode) and clinical observations were conducted 1 hour (h) prior to surgery and subsequently after 1, 4, 8, 24, 48, 72 h of treatment. Experiment two: The plasma buprenorphine concentration level was evaluated at 1, 4, 8, 24, 48, 72 h on five-day-old rat pups. Plasma buprenorphine concentration for all treatment groups remained above the clinically effective concentration of 1 ng/mL for at least 4 h in the Bup-SR group, 8 h in XR-Lo and 24 h in XR-Hi group with no abnormal clinical observations. This study demonstrates that XR-Hi did not attenuate postoperative thermal hypersensitivity for a longer period than XR-Lo in 5-day-old rats; XR-Hi attenuated postoperative thermal hypersensitivity for up to 4 h while Bup-SR and XR-Lo for at least 8 h in this model.
Prevalence and factors associated with dietary supplement use among Bangladeshi public university students: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Tareq Md. Abu , Emi Umme Habiba , Banna Md. Hasan Al , Rezyona Humayra , Seidu Abdul-Aziz , Abid Mohammad Tazrian , Tetteh Justice Kanor , Sultana Mst. Sadia , Kundu Satyajit , Hasanuzzaman Md. , Mondal Shuvajit , Mandal Moumita , Khan Md. Shafiqul Islam
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The usage of dietary supplement (DS) such as vitamins, minerals, and fish oil has expanded, but there is limited data on their use by sub-populations such as university students. The study was aimed to investigate the prevalence of DS use among Bangladeshi university students and its associated factors.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of 390 students was conducted from two public universities from Barishal Division in Bangladesh using a structured questionnaire with 72 questions divided into five sections: sociodemographic, knowledge, opinions, and attitudes, types of DS, reasons and sources for using DS, and adverse reactions after taking DS. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were utilized to estimate the results.

Results

Among all the students, 15.6% students were using DS where only 7.7% of them used DS according to physicians’ recommendation. Additionally, students used DS for general health and well-being, weight gaining and as a source of energy for physical and sporting activities, etc. The use of DS was significantly associated with female sex (AOR = 5.44, 95% CI: 2.18–13.52), ≥25 years age (AOR = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.01–0.67), underweight (AOR = 5.86, 95% CI: 1.95–17.62), having major illness (AOR = 6.99, 95% CI: 1.98–24.70) and good knowledge of DS (AOR = 2.64, 95% CI: 1.23–5.64).

Conclusion

This study provides new findings on DS use and its correlates in Bangladeshi students which may be used by the policymakers to improve DS usage among students. Adaptation of an appropriate program is recommended to educate students on proper and safer ways of using DS.
Access Entanglements: Approaching Accessible Publishing Through Engagement and Dissensus
Authors: Chandler Eliza , Coklyat Bojana , Finnegan Shannon , Watkin Jessica
Published: October 2022

A conversation between artists Bojana Coklyat, Shannon Finnegan, Jessica Watkin, and scholar and curator Dr. Eliza Chandler which approaches access and publishing from the vantage of centring disability and its multi-sensorial ways of knowing, engaging with concepts of care, crip time, interdependence and collaboration, the limitations of access as “inclusion,” disability as creatively generative, and access as a distinct methodology for artmaking.
Spiral Staircase Slides
Authors: Dyment SK
Published: October 2022

The Spiral Staircase Slides image portrays a series of multi-storey residential homes with exterior staircases and balcony landings. In place of the iconic spiral staircases we see particularly in the architecture of Quebec and the Eastern Provinces, we see spiral slides of the sort found in children’s schoolyards. The image was a commentary on how some buildings are so ludicrously inaccessible they are comical, designed as if only able-bodied children need apply.
Cheap Talk: Disability and the Politics of Communication
Authors: Jones Evan R.
Published: October 2022

Cheap Talk: Disability and the Politics of Communication

Joshua St. Pierre

University of Michigan Press, 2022

180 pages
Algunos principios de aprendizaje equitativo post-pandemia
Authors: Penuel William R.
Published: October 2022

En este artículo se introducen e ilustran seis principios acordes con el aprendizaje equitativo. Dichos principios fueron sugeridos por un grupo de investigadores y profesores durante la primavera del año 2020, reunidos por la Fundación Spencer y el Learning Policy Institute, con el objetivo de orientar al cuerpo docente en relación a una visión propositiva de lo que podríamos llamar “educación post-pandemia”. Los principios son: (1) centrarse en las relaciones; (2) cultivar una cultura de la afirmación y la pertenencia; (3) construir aprendizajes a partir de los intereses de los y las aprendices, y centrarse en el desarrollo integral de los niños y niñas; (4) vincular el conocimiento de estudiantes y familias con el aprendizaje curricular-académico-disciplinar; (5) promover formas creativas de aprendizaje basadas en la investigación; y (6) abordar las necesidades de aprendizaje de los y las docentes. El artículo elabora estos principios a través de tres ejemplos que permiten ilustrar cómo generar y crear ambientes de aprendizaje equitativos post-pandemia.
Does Pacemaker Implantation After Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement Impact Long-Term Morbidity and Mortality? A Focused Review
Authors: El Diasty Mohammad , Davies Mark , Fernandez Angel L. , Ribeiro Igo , Payne Darrin , Petsikas Dimitri
Published: October 2022

Permanent pacing remains a serious complication that can occur in the postoperative period of surgical aortic valve replacement. The reported incidence is variable, and there are many perioperative factors that have been linked with a greater need for permanent pacing. Permanent pacing can also be associated with late lead-related and cardiac complications that can affect late outcome. However, the degree of late dependence on pacemakers is varied, and some studies have shown that a substantial proportion of patients do not need long-term pacing. Some groups have found that permanent pacing was associated with a negative impact on long-term survival in these patients. A common finding among these studies is that the groups of patients with pacemakers had higher preoperative surgical risk and comorbidity status. This makes it difficult to establish whether permanent pacing on its own represents a risk factor for late mortality or whether it is simply a marker that reflects the higher complexity and comorbidities in this group of patients.
Thermal and Electrical Analysis of Automotive Ignition System
Authors: Sebok Milan , Gutten Miroslav , Kucera Matej , Korenciak Daniel
Published: October 2022

This article describes principles of evaluation of individual parts of the ignition system, using conventional diagnostic systems, based on evaluation of current and voltage waveforms. By means of the practical test, diagnostics, measurements and subsequent analysis it was proved that thermovision plays an important role in diagnostics in on-line check automotive equipment. By comparing the non-standard warming behaviour of a part of the electrical system with combination with time high-voltage method, it is possible to diagnose a fault and also check the operating mode of the system. An example of a thermogram of the temperature distribution of the ignition coils and analysis of high-voltage ignition curves with faulty spark plugs is given in part of paper of nondestructive diagnostics with a difference in temperature. Analysing fault condition of ignition systems, using method conventional diagnosis of high-voltage pulse waveforms and also method of thermovision diagnostics, we can adequately evaluated the functionality of the electronic system and its individual components. In some cases, with one coil ignition systems, we cannot use the conventional method and therefore it is preferable to proceed to the analysis of temperature fields.
A method for the estimation of sideslip angle for a vehicle equipped with a one-antenna GPS measuring system
Authors: Pieniążek Wiesław , Wolak Stanisław , Janczur Robert
Published: October 2022

One-antenna GPS systems present no possibility for the direct determination of vehicle slip angle. This is an easy task for dual antenna systems; however, many users have this kind of apparatus. In this paper, a method of estimation of this parameter, which is important for the estimation of vehicle steerability factors, is proposed (e.g. TB factor calculated on the basis of data from input test [8]). The method is based on two parameters measured by a one-antenna GPS system; these are the heading angle created from the Doppler channel coming directly from the GPS engine, and the yaw rate measured by an IMU device integrated and cooperating with the GPS engine. The sideslip angle which was calculated according to the proposed method is compared with an equivalent angle calculated on the basis of data from a non-slip measurement of velocity components for selected point of vehicle acquired using. The presented method is illustrated with examples from real tests. In the author’s opinion, the sideslip angle calculated with the application of measurement data obtained from a one-antenna GPS device could be used in practice. From comparison with another upper mentioned method, it follows that the differences between average values of sideslip angles obtained from both considered methods is not greater than 8%.
Nonlinear method of determining the vehicle pre-crash speed based on B-spline with propabilistic weights - subcompact car class
Authors: Kubiak Przemyslaw , Sys Ewa , Goslawski Lukasz , Manko Maria , Gralewski Jacek , Krukowski Mateusz , Alves de Sousa Ricardo , Mrowicki Adam , Soghabatyan Tigran , Zou Tiefang
Published: October 2022

A new non-linear method utilizing the work W of car deformation is considered in this study. The car deformation is defined as an algebraic function of deformation ratio Cs.
The method of variable correlation is exploited in order to develop experimental data. To determinate mathematical model parameters, data from the NHTSA database including frontal crash tests are used.
Such database is comprised of substantial number of crash cases and main focus was put on frontal impacts.
In the non-linear method used so far, the so-called energetic approach, collisions are considered non-elastic.
The speed threshold defining the elastic collision was set to be 11 km/h. This simplistic approach is used to determine the linear relation of energy loss during deformation on deformation coefficient Cs.
Deformation points C1-C6 are taken into account while calculating a mean value that defines this coefficient. A more accurate non-linear method as well as more complex form of deformation coefficient is suggested to determine the work of deformation in this paper.
The focus of those methods is to establish the value of nonlinear coefficient b_k which is the slope factor of precrash velocity Vt and deformation ratio Cs function.
Public Transport as a Part of Shared Economy
Authors: Kalašová Alica , Harantová Veronika , Čulík Kristián
Published: October 2022

Nowadays, the issue of sustainable mobility is very resonant in the professional public. Main topic for discussion is a transport as a one of the biggest polluters in the world. Today's transport brings a number of benefits to society, but often it has a high price. This price is paid by wasted human lives and serious environmental damage. Therefore there is no wonder that a number of cities, municipalities and regions regard transport as the key to their development, but at the same time as a threat to the health of the population, their safety and quality of a whole life. The combination of public and shared transport is necessary for clean and smart mobility. Shared economy is a concept of social change in the 21st century. This paper is focused on above mentioned issues. It describes levels of the smart city concept and principles and forms of shared economy in transport and shared mobility. .
Testing of the torsional stiffness of the passenger car frame
and its validation by means of finite element analysis
Authors: Podkowski Krzysztof , Małczuk Adrian , Stasiak Andrzej , Pawlak Maciej
Published: October 2022

The paper presents the results of the conducted tests of torsional stiffness of the VOSCO S106 passenger car, as well as the validation process of these tests by means of numerical analyzes using the FEM finite element method.
The most important element of the vehicle structure is the part of the spatial frame or the safety cage. Engine, brake system, fuel system and steering system, suspension as well as body and parts, their mounting nodes, hinges, locks, etc. are attached to the frame. The frame must therefore have adequate strength to protect the driver in the event of a tipover or impact. The frame is usually made of steel pipes with the prescribed dimensions and strength according to regulations. The torsional stiffness of the vehicle chassis has a significant influence on its driveability and therefore is an important parameter to measure. In this article, the torsional stiffness of the vehicle frame is calculated experimentally, which was then verified by finite element analysis (FEM) using the Altair HyperWorks program.
The importance of hybrid vehicles in urban traffic in terms of environmental impact
Authors: Šarkan Branislav , Gnap Jozef , Kiktová Monika
Published: October 2022

Many large cities in Europe are currently trying to reduce the amount of harmful substances for the residents. Road transport is also an important source of air pollution. One way to reduce pollutant production is to operate more environmentally friendly vehicles. The paper analyses data obtained during practical tests of a hybrid vehicle in urban traffic. The individual components of the exhaust gases are calculated in g/km and they are compared with the values for conventional vehicle propulsion. The data was obtained through a commercially available exhaust gas analyzer and a calculated amount of emissions produced from available data from the engine control unit. The results shown that using of this type of propulsion has its importance in cities with increased air pollution. During urban operation, the hybrid-powered vehicle was powered by an electric engine up to 67.70 % (75.40 % of the time). As a result of operating such a vehicle in the city, emissions of CO2, HC and NOx are significantly lower.
Safety Features of the Transport System in the Transition to Industry 4.0
Authors: Makarova Irina , Shubenkova Ksenia , Buyvol Polina , Mavrin Vadim , Giniyatullin Ilsur , Magdin Kirill
Published: October 2022

World trends in the field of intellectualization and digitalization of all activity spheres, caused by the rapid growth of engineering and technology, have caused serious changes in the transport sector. Road transport has a negative impact on the environment, to a large extent this relates to city’s air pollution in urbanization conditions and the vehicle fleet accelerated growth. Reducing the negative vehicles impact on the environment is possible only through the development of integrated solutions for managing the transport system. Goal of this article is to study the applicability of decision support systems and simulation models to predict the possibility of reducing the negative vehicles impact on the environment. The developed simulation models for road network problem areas of the Naberezhnye Chelny city allow us to study the influence of traffic parameters on the volume of harmful substances in vehicles exhaust gases, as well as noise pollution. Using the model, it is also possible to assess the possible reduction in the degree of air pollution when converting engines public transport to natural gas fuel. Model experiments showed the adequacy of the proposed approach.