bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specialized endoplasmic reticulum‐derived vesicles in plants: Functional diversity, evolution, and biotechnological exploitation
Authors: Li Xie , Li Xifeng , Fan Baofang , Zhu Cheng , Chen Zhixiang
Published: February 2022

A central role of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the synthesis, folding and quality control of secretory proteins. Secretory proteins usually exit the ER to enter the Golgi apparatus in coat protein complex II (COPII)‐coated vesicles before transport to different subcellular destinations. However, in plants there are specialized ER‐derived vesicles (ERDVs) that carry specific proteins but, unlike COPII vesicles, can exist as independent organelles or travel to the vacuole in a Golgi‐independent manner. These specialized ERDVs include protein bodies and precursor‐accumulating vesicles that accumulate storage proteins in the endosperm during seed development. Specialized ERDVs also include precursor protease vesicles that accumulate amino acid sequence KDEL‐tailed cysteine proteases and ER bodies in Brassicales plants that accumulate myrosinases that hydrolyzes glucosinolates. These functionally specialized ERDVs act not only as storage organelles but also as platforms for signal‐triggered processing, activation and deployment of specific proteins with important roles in plant growth, development and adaptive responses. Some specialized ERDVs have also been exploited to increase production of recombinant proteins and metabolites. Here we discuss our current understanding of the functional diversity, evolutionary mechanisms and biotechnological application of specialized ERDVs, which are associated with some of the highly remarkable characteristics important to plants.
Utility of a flexed neck sagittal magentic resonance imaging sequence for the assessment of cerebellomedullary cistern in dogs
Authors: Sivolapenko Dafni , Duncan Juliet , Eivers Caroline , Liuti Tiziana , Marioni‐Henry Katia
Published: February 2022

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collection from the cerebellomedullary cistern (CM) of dogs with congenital or acquired cerebellar herniation could lead to serious complications. It is anecdotally more challenging in large brachycephalic breeds possibly due to the increased distance between the skin and CM. The first objective of this study was to assess whether flexed‐neck sagittal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences would assist in the decision‐making process of collecting CSF from the CM. The second objective was to examine the dimensions of the CM measured in extended and flexed views, and whether cranial index (CI), skull height and body weight correlated with the distance of the CM from the skin surface. Forty‐one dogs of various breeds were included in the study. Measurements were performed on T2‐weighted sagittal sequences acquired in extended and flexed‐neck positions, and transverse sequences acquired in an extended‐neck position. Mild cerebellar herniation was detected in 23/41 (56%) of the flexed‐neck views versus none in the extended views. The CM area was significantly larger in flexed‐neck views than in extended views (p < 0.05). In 29% of the cases (12/41), the trajectory of the needle intersected the cerebellar vermis. There was a positive correlation between the distance of the CM from the skin and body weight (p < 0.05) and skull height (p < 0.05), but not with the CI (p = 0.23). These findings suggest that a flexed‐neck sagittal MRI sequence helps with assessment of the size of the CM and degree of cerebellar herniation, and that skull height and body weight, but not cranial index, affect the distance of the CM from the skin surface.
The power of public choice in law and economics
Authors: Torgler Benno
Published: February 2022

In this paper I discuss how Law and Economics can benefit from incorporating some insights from Public Choice into their analyses. Within this argument, I examine the evolution of experimental methods by looking at laboratory, field, and natural experiments; and conducting a very simple scientometrics analysis on the relative frequency of experimental studies in journals such asPublic Choice, European Journal of Political Economy, Constitutional Political Economy, Journal of Law and Economics, andJournal of Law, Economics and Organizationcompared with top economics journals such asAmerican Economic Review, Quarterly Journal of Economics, Journal of Political Economy, Econometrica, orReview of Economic Studies. I also refer to the connectivity of Behavioral Law and Economics and Behavioral Public Choice. The paper then finishes with a discussion of a selected number of topics covering areas such as corruption, tax compliance, shitstorms/firestorms, constitutional choices, globalization, and international organizations; all of which present scientific challenges when applying pure Law and Economics approaches without also implementing a Public Choice analysis.
Effect of prior olaparib maintenance therapy for platinum sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer on response to subsequent platinum‐based chemotherapy
Authors: Nakazawa Hiroshi , Nagao Shoji , Narita Moyu , Shibutani Takashi , Jimi Tomoatsu , Yano Hiroko , Kitai Miho , Shiozaki Takaya , Yamaguchi Satoshi
Published: February 2022

Aim

Several years have passed since olaparib maintenance therapy was approved in patients with platinum sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer (PSROC). We speculated that the response to platinum‐based chemotherapy (PBC) would be impaired at the time of recurrence after olaparib maintenance therapy. We conducted a noninterventional retrospective study to clarify this clinical question in a single institution.

Methods

We included all patients with PSROC who received olaparib after second or later line of PBC between April 18, 2018, and August 31, 2021. We evaluated the effect of olaparib maintenance therapy on PBC after progression.

Results

We identified 42 patients who received olaparib maintenance therapy after second or later line of PBC. Twenty‐four patients relapsed after olaparib maintenance therapy, and 17 patients received PBC again. Four of 17 patients (complete response 2, partial response 2) responded to the PBC. The median progression‐free survival was longer in patients with platinum‐free interval ≥12 months than platinum‐free interval of 6–12 months (9.7 vs 2.6 months, hazard ratio, 0.20: 95% confidence interval, 0.04–0.90; p = 0.04).

Conclusions

In the patients with PSROC who experienced disease progression after olaparib maintenance therapy, especially in those with platinum‐free interval of 6–12 months, the response to subsequent PBC was extremely poor. The efficiency of re‐administration of PBC for PSROC patients with a short‐term recurrence after olaparib treatment may need to be reconsidered.
Design Meets Neuroscience: A Preliminary Review of Design Research Using Neuroscience Tools
Authors: Hu Linna , Shepley Mardelle McCuskey
Published: February 2022

The past decade has witnessed a burgeoning interest in the intersection of neuroscience and design. Recent advancements in tools for measuring brain activity enable design researchers to investigate how brain function supports mental processes, complementing self–report and behavioral measures in exploring design cognition. With the aim of providing a preliminary understanding of how design researchers have approached neuroscience to date, we examined (1) previously explored neural research topics, (2) available tools and their contributions and limitations, and (3) the challenges of conducting design research using neuroscience tools. We start with a brief overview of major neuroscience tools measuring brain activation including electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), near–infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), and positron emission tomography (PET). We then present a review of design research specifically on neural processes involved in design thinking and creativity. Consistencies of brain activity across studies are identified. Distinct patterns of brain activation associated with specific comparisons (e.g., design thinking vs. problem–solving) observed in previous studies are also summarized. An introductory review of design research using neuroscience tools on design evaluation and aesthetics is then provided. In addition to the promises of the fast–growing interdisciplinary collaboration of design and neuroscience, we outline technical, practical, and experimental difficulties caused by the limits of neuroscience tools for design research studies.
Health‐related quality of life and menstrual problems in adolescents
Authors: Pogodina Anna , Dolgikh Olga , Astakhova Tatyana , Klimkina Juliana , Khramova Elena , Rychkova Lyubov
Published: February 2022

Aim

To evaluate whether the health‐related quality‐of‐life (HRQoL) scores would be different for adolescents with menstrual problems as compared to those with normal menstruation after taking into account clinical, socio‐demographic and life‐style factors.

Methods

The Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 scale was used to assess HRQoL in 126 schoolgirls of 16 ± 0.4 years old. The adolescents completed semi‐structured questionnaires containing information on social and demographic characteristics, life‐style features and menstrual questionnaires that included the following: age of menstruation, menstrual cycle length, duration of production, the number of pads used per day, menstrual pain and drug administration to relieve dysmenorrhea. The menstrual problems were classified into three main groups: dysmenorrhoea, oligomenorrhoea, and heavy menstrual bleeding. Anthropometric measurements were performed by a physician. Medical history was obtained from school medical charts.

Results

Ninety‐seven (77%) girls had menstrual problems. Dysmenorrhoea (n = 92, 73%) was the most frequent of these, followed by oligomenorrhoea (n = 13, 10.3%) and heavy menstrual bleeding (n = 6, 4.8%). Thirteen (10.3%) girls had combined disorders. A multivariate analysis adjusted for life‐style factors found an independent association of any menstrual problems, oligomenorrhoea and dysmenorrhoea with low HRQoL scores in the emotional functioning domain. For adolescents with oligomenorrhoea, an association with low total scale scores was also shown but it did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

The prevalence of menstrual problems is high among schoolgirls. Medical professionals working with adolescents should know that girls with menstrual problems are highly likely to have a poor quality of life, especially those with oligomenorrhoea.
Method to detect and quantify colonization of anthracnose causal agent Colletotrichum gloeosporioides species complex in strawberry by real‐time PCR
Authors: Yang Jing , Duan Ke , Liu Ya , Song Lili , Gao Qing‐Hua
Published: February 2022

Anthracnose, a destructive disease in strawberry worldwide, is caused by the pathogenic fungus Colletotrichum ssp.. To date, numerous studies focusing on its identification, pathogenicity and biological characteristics have been published. However, research on quantifying the colonization of this pathogen is still lacking, which is crucial to the study of anthracnose resistance. In this study, we developed a sensitive primer pair targeting the cutinase gene that is capable of distinguishing Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (C. gloeosporioides) species complex, the main species causing strawberry anthracnose in China, including C. fructicola, C. gloeosporioides, C. aenigma and C. siamense, from other Colletotrichum species and typical fungal pathogens. On this basis, we established a quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) assay to accurately quantify pathogen amounts from both pure cultures and infected strawberries, with detection limits of 105–101 copies. Using this method, we characterized quantitative traits of C. fructicola colonization in strawberry leaves and discovered differences in pathogen populations at different positions. Moreover, monitoring of pathogen growth during infection showed a dynamic change in the amount of C. fructicola. Finally, a comparison of the absolute and relative quantification results further proved this method's validity. Therefore, we propose that this specific PCR method enables rapid detection and quantification of C. gloeosporioides species complex colonization in strawberry and will be a useful tool for anthracnose management and strawberry resistance studies.
Bacterial ring rot of potato caused by Clavibacter sepedonicus: A successful example of defeating the enemy under international regulations
Authors: Osdaghi Ebrahim , van der Wolf Jan M. , Abachi Hamid , Li Xiang , De Boer Solke H. , Ishimaru Carol A.
Published: February 2022

Background

Bacterial ring rot of potato (Solanum tuberosum) caused by the gram‐positive coryneform bacterium Clavibacter sepedonicus is an important quarantine disease threatening the potato industry around the globe. Since its original description in 1906 in Germany, management of ring rot has been a major problem due to the seedborne nature (via seed tubers not true seeds) of the pathogen allowing the bacterium to be transmitted long distances via infected tubers.

Disease symptoms

On growing potato plants: interveinal chlorosis on leaflets leading to necrotic areas and systemic wilt. On infected tubers: vascular tissues become yellowish brown with a cheesy texture due to bacterial colonization and decay.

Host range

Potato is the main host of the pathogen, but natural infection also occurs on eggplant, tomato, and sugar beet.

Taxonomic status of the pathogen

Class: Actinobacteria; Order: Actinomycetales; Family: Microbacteriaceae; Genus: Clavibacter; Species: Clavibacter sepedonicus (Spieckermann and Kotthoff 1914) Li et al. 2018.

Synonyms (nonpreferred scientific names)

Aplanobacter sepedonicus; Bacterium sepedonicum; Corynebacterium sepedonicum; Corynebacterium michiganense pv. sepedonicum; Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus.

Microbiological properties

Gram‐positive, club‐shaped cells with creamy to yellowish‐cream colonies for which the optimal growth temperature is 20–23°C.

Distribution

Asia (China, Japan, Kazakhstan, Nepal, North Korea, Pakistan, South Korea, Uzbekistan, the Asian part of Russia), Europe (Belarus, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Romania, European part of Russia, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine), and North America (Canada, Mexico, USA).

Phytosanitary categorization

CORBSE: EPPO A2 list no. 51. EU; Annex designation I/A2.
Absence of tissue transglutaminase reduces amyloid‐beta pathology in APP23 mice
Authors: Wilhelmus Micha M. M. , Chouchane Osoul , Loos Maarten , Jongenelen Cornelis A. M. , Brevé John J. P. , Jonker Allert , Bol John G. J. M. , Smit August B. , Drukarch Benjamin
Published: February 2022

Aims

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterised by amyloid‐beta (Aβ) aggregates in the brain. Targeting Aβ aggregates is a major approach for AD therapies, although attempts have had little to no success so far. A novel treatment option is to focus on blocking the actual formation of Aβ multimers. The enzyme tissue transglutaminase (TG2) is abundantly expressed in the human brain and plays a key role in post‐translational modifications in Aβ resulting in covalently cross‐linked, stable and neurotoxic Aβ oligomers.

In vivo absence of TG2 in the APP23 mouse model may provide evidence that TG2 plays a key role in development and/or progression of Aβ‐related pathology.

Methods

Here, we compared the effects on Aβ pathology in the presence or absence of TG2 using 12‐month‐old wild type, APP23 and a crossbreed of the TG2−/− mouse model and APP23 mice (APP23/TG2−/−).

Results

Using immunohistochemistry, we found that the number of Aβ deposits was significantly reduced in the absence of TG2 compared with age‐matched APP23 mice. To pinpoint possible TG2‐associated mechanisms involved in this observation, we analysed soluble brain Aβ1–40, Aβ1–42 and/or Aβ40/42 ratio, and mRNA levels of human APP and TG2 family members present in brain of the various mouse models. In addition, using immunohistochemistry, both beta‐pleated sheet formation in Aβ deposits and the presence of reactive astrocytes associated with Aβ deposits were analysed.

Conclusions

We found that absence of TG2 reduces the formation of Aβ pathology in the APP23 mouse model, suggesting that TG2 may be a suitable therapeutic target for reducing Aβ deposition in AD.
Combination of Clavicular Hook Plate with Coracoacromial Ligament Transposition in Treatment of Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation
Authors: Tuxun Aikebaier , Keremu Ajimu , Aila Pazila , Abulikemu Maimaitiaili , Xie Zengru , Ababokeli Palati
Published: February 2022

Objective

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) clavicular hook plate (CHP) combined with coracoacromial ligament transposition for Rockwood III‐V dislocation of AC joint, providing an alternative choice for AC joint dislocation treatment.

Methods

Twenty‐five patients diagnosed with Rockwood III‐V dislocation of acromioclavicular (AC) joint, including 18 males and seven females, aged 43.5 ± 2.4 years old on average, who had undergone open reduction and AO CHP in combination with coracoacromial (CC) ligament transposition between January 2010 and December 2015, were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 17 cases were diagnosed as type III, five cases were type IV, and three cases were type V. The surgery mainly included three main steps: bone flap incision, drilling in the clavicle, and hook plate fixation and AC joint reposition. The treatment efficacy was evaluated through clinical examinations and imaging studies for the shoulder joint, including gross observation and measuring coracoid clavicle distance (CC‐Dist) using orthophoria X‐ray before and 1 year after the surgery, and University of California (UCLA) shoulder rating scale.

Results

All the patients were followed up three to four times in 18 months (12–24 months) on average, and the UCLA rating results showed that there were 17 excellent cases (68%), five good cases (20%), and three fair cases (12%). The CC‐Dist values after the surgery reduced to 9.7 ± 0.7 mm, which was significantly (P < 0.05) lower compared to that before the surgery (15.8 ± 1.6 mm). Most (88%) of the cases showed almost normal joint function and good anatomical arrangement of the acromioclavicular joint, without any secondary dislocation, and for them, 12 ± 2 weeks on average were needed to regain the normal function of shoulder joint movement.

Conclusion

Due to the stable fixation, fewer complications, and satisfactory therapeutic effect with great clinical value, the combination of AO CHP and CC ligament transposition is expected to be used for treating Rockwood III‐V dislocation of AC joint.
Altered event processing in persons with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Wyrobnik Michelle , van der Meer Elke , Klostermann Fabian
Published: February 2022

Persons with Parkinson’s disease (PD) often show particular problems in seemingly simple routines despite relatively preserved cognitive function. We therefore investigated the processing of everyday events on behavioral and neurophysiological levels in a PD and control group. The participants had to indicate via button press whether three sequentially presented sub‐events described a previously defined event (e.g., going grocery shopping). Sub‐event sequences were either correct or included an event that did not belong to the event (content violation), or events were chronologically wrong (temporal violation). During task execution event‐related potentials (ERPs) were recorded. Generally, the PD group showed less accurate performance independently from task conditions, and reaction times to temporal violations were particularly slow compared to the control group. Regarding ERP results, the control group showed a right lateralized N400 effect in response to content violations, which was absent in the PD group indicating altered content event processing. Concerning the reanalysis of content event violations, the expression of late positive components (LPCs) was similar between both groups. Upon temporal violations, both groups also showed a LPC with a tendentially earlier onset in the PD group, resembling positive components indicative of novelty processing. Together, these findings suggest poor event prediction in PD, which may originate from weak event representation or retrieval and possibly relate to prevalent behavioral dysfunctions in everyday life in PD.
Amikacin prevents platelet aggregation in feline venous blood samples
Authors: Engelmann Ana M. , Veleda Patrícia A. , Mello Camila B. E. , Dutra Lara S. , Mann Thaís R. , Bueno Andressa , Krause Alexandre , de Andrade Cinthia M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Physiologically, feline platelets are more reactive and prone to aggregation, which interferes with platelet counts using automated counters and manual methods. The use of aminoglycoside amikacin in association with EDTA has proven to be efficient in preventing platelet aggregates in cases of pseudo thrombocytopenia (PTP) in people.

Objectives

This study evaluated the efficacy of amikacin in preventing platelet aggregation in EDTA‐containing feline blood samples and investigated the possible effects on hematologic measurands.

Materials and methods

Blood samples (1.0 mL) collected from 100 healthy cats were stored in two EDTA tubes: 0.5 mL in a microtube containing 10 μL of 250 mg/mL amikacin (EDTA‐AMK group) and 0.5 mL in a microtube containing only K2 EDTA 10% (EDTA group). A CBC was executed with an automated impedance blood analyzer, and a microscopic examination of the blood smears was performed.

Results

Platelet clumps were observed in 56% of samples from the EDTA group and 5% of samples from the EDTA‐AMK group. Platelet counts (PLT), plateletcrit (PCT), and WBC counts were significantly higher (P < .001) in the EDTA‐AMK group compared withi the EDTA group.

Conclusions

Amikacin prevents platelet aggregation in feline venous blood samples and does not cause clinically relevant changes in other hematologic measurands. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing the use of amikacin in preventing platelet aggregation in feline blood samples. Based on this study, amikacin could be added to EDTA collection tubes for complete blood counts in cats.
Presumptive renal tubular acidosis secondary to topiramate administration in a cat
Authors: Centola Steven J. , Kaiman Gregory , Rizzo Kaila , Buriko Yekaterina , Burke Jasper
Published: February 2022

Objective

To describe renal tubular acidosis (RTA) and secondary acquired hyperaldosteronism in a cat as an adverse effect of topiramate therapy.

Case Summary

An 8‐year‐old neutered female cat on chronic oral topiramate therapy at a recommended dose (11.9 mg/kg q 8 h) for seizure control was presented with severe metabolic acidosis and hypokalemia. Plasma electrolyte and acid–base analysis identified a severe metabolic acidosis (pH 7.153, reference interval: 7.31–7.46), hypokalemia (2.08 mmol/L [2.08 mEq/L], reference interval: 3.5–4.8 mmol/L [3.5–4.8 mEq/L]), and ionized hypercalcemia (1.85 mmol/L [1.85 mEq/L], reference range: 1.1–1.4 mmol/L [1.1–1.4 mEq/L]). Urinalysis revealed a urine specific gravity of 1.021 and a pH of 7.0. Diagnostic workup suggested distal RTA as a cause of the cat's acid–base and electrolyte disturbances. Aldosterone concentration was moderately increased, suggestive of secondary hyperaldosteronism. The metabolic abnormalities resolved with supportive care and discontinuation of topiramate.

New or Unique Information Provided

Topiramate is suggested to have led to the development severe RTA in a cat.
Short‐ and long‐term survival after adrenalectomy in 53 dogs with pheochromocytomas with or without alpha‐blocker therapy
Authors: Enright Dory , Dickerson Vanna M. , Grimes Janet A. , Townsend Sarah , Thieman Mankin Kelley M.
Published: February 2022

Objective

To report data related to the short‐ and long‐term survival of dogs undergoing adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma, and to determine the influence of preoperative alpha‐blocker therapy.

Study design

Retrospective.

Animals

Fifty‐three dogs.

Methods

Medical records were reviewed for dogs diagnosed with pheochromocytoma and treated with adrenalectomy between 2010 and 2020. Preoperative management, imaging studies, intraoperative cardiovascular instability, complications, and procedural information were recorded. When applicable, duration of survival and cause of death, time to recurrence or metastasis, and postoperative complications were recorded.

Results

During anesthesia, a hypertensive episode was documented in 46/53 dogs and arrhythmias were recorded in 16/53 dogs. Of these, 37/46 hypertensive dogs and 11/16 dogs with arrhythmias were treated with an alpha‐blocker before surgery. Intraoperative systolic blood pressures reached higher levels by a magnitude of nearly 20% in dogs that were treated preoperatively with an alpha‐blocker (P = .01). All dogs survived surgery and 44 survived to discharge. Follow up ranged from 6 to 1653 days (median 450 days). Median survival time for dogs discharged from the hospital was 1169 days (3.2 years). Recurrence and metastasis were suspected in 3 and 8 dogs, respectively.

Conclusion

Most dogs survived the immediate postoperative period and achieved long‐term survival with a low reported incidence of tumor recurrence or metastasis. Preoperative alpha‐blocker therapy was not associated with increased survival.

Clinical significance

The favorable outcomes reported in this study should be taken into consideration when discussing treatment options for dogs with pheochromocytomas. This study provides no evidence to support preoperative alpha‐blocker therapy.
Cost of remote patient monitoring for cardiovascular disease: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Zhang Yunxi , Pena Maria T. , Fletcher Lauren M. , Swint John M. , Reneker Jennifer C.
Published: February 2022

Objective:

This review aims to evaluate the costs and cost-effectiveness of remote patient monitoring for cardiovascular disease in the United States.

Introduction:

Cardiovascular disease is a leading public health concern in the United States, resulting in a substantial economic burden. Remote patient monitoring has emerged as a viable and valuable care delivery method to improve cardiovascular disease management at home. However, there is limited systematic research of the cost and cost-effectiveness of using remote patient monitoring to manage the disease.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider all studies evaluating the cost of remote patient monitoring for cardiovascular disease management in the United States. The population of interest includes all individuals with various types of chronic cardiovascular disease in the United States.

Methods:

The search strategy will locate both published and unpublished studies. Systematic searches will be completed in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov, National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database, and the Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Registry. Two reviewers will independently screen titles and abstracts, followed by a full-text review against the inclusion criteria. Disagreements will be resolved through discussion between all study members. The JBI checklist for economic evaluations will be utilized to evaluate the methodological quality of studies. Data will be extracted using a modified version of the JBI data extraction form for economic evaluations. Reviewers will summarize studies and cost-related metrics. The Dominance Ranking Matrix will be used to synthesize full economic evaluation.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42021270621
OBTAINING RECOMBINANT EXTRACELLULAR FRAGMENTS OF GPR161 RECEPTOR
Authors: Kanaev D.B. , Mukanov K.K. , Adish Zh. , Tokhtarova L. , Zhumabekova S. , Inirbay B. , Tursunov K.A. , Ramankulov Ye.M. , Mukantayev K.N.
Published: February 2022

The GPR161 is a receptor of the GPCR family and identified as a prognostic biomarker for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). TNBC characterized by lack of expression of the estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and epidermal growth factor receptor (Her2), early recurrence and poor prognosis. The GPR161 is an important regulator of the proliferation and migration of cancer cells. However, anti-GPCR receptor drugs are rarely used in the treatment of cancer, despite evidence of receptor involvement in various aspects of cancer development. Upon receipt of monoclonal antibodies, the success of the study is associated with the presence in sufficient quantities of pure antigen preparations. Recently, gene synthesis under de novo conditions has become a powerful tool in biotechnology. A number of methods have been described, representing thermodynamic balanced methods based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This paper presents the results of gene synthesis and the preparation of a recombinant extracellular fragment of the receptor.

To obtain a recombinant protein, an area located outside the cell membrane between the 4th and 5th helix of the receptor was selected. A genetic construct based on the pET32 vector carrying the extracellular fragment of the human GPR161 receptor has been developed and obtained. Strain Escherichia coli BL21/pET32/TM4-5GPR161 producing recombinant extracellular fragment rTM4-5 GPR161 was obtained. The conditions for the isolation and purification of recombinant protein were determined, and its immunogenic properties were studied.

Purified recombinant protein TM4-5GPR161 in its immunological characteristics suitable for the production of strains of hybrid cells producing monoclonal antibodies to the GPR161 receptor.
DIAGNOSIS OF POTATO VIRUSES IN KAZAKHSTAN: MOLECULAR CHARACTERISATION OF ISOLATES
Authors: Karpova O.V. , Alexandrova A.M. , Nargilova R.M. , Kryldakov R.V. , Yekaterinskaya E.M. , Romadanova N.V. , Kushnarenko S.V. , Iskakov B.K.
Published: February 2022

Virus infection is one of the reasons for the low potato yield in Kazakhstan. The combination of modern methods of germplasm improvement and effective virus diagnosis are the most successful measures to overcome potato viruses. Using ELISA and multiplex RT-PCR methods, potato leaf samples from the Almaty and Kostanay regions of Kazakhstan were analysed for the presence of the carlaviruses potato virus M and potato virus S, the potyvirus potato virus Y, the potexvirus potato virus X, and the polerovirus potato leaf roll virus (PVM, PVS, PVY, PVX, and PLRV, respectively). The potato virus spectrum has changed over the last twenty years, and presently carlavirusеs represent the most widespread genus. Of the leaf samples tested, 84.3%  and 46.6% were infected by PVM and PVS, respectively, and co-infection by both viruses occurred. Multiplex RT-PCR assays were developed to detect the five potato viruses, and for two strains of PVS. Based on sequence analyses of the central region of the capsid protein, fourteen Kazakh PVS isolates were identified, of which eleven were classified as the ‘ordinary’ strain, and three as ‘Andean’ strains. Our findings confirmed the existence of divergent PVS strains with different origins present in Kazakhstan.
OBTAINING STRAIN-PRODUCER OF RECOMBINANT HEXON OF BOVINE ADENOVIRUS TYPE 3
Authors: Mukantayev K.N. , Tursunov K.A. , Kanayev D.B. , Tokhtarova L. , Ramankulov Ye. M. , Mukanov K. K.
Published: February 2022

The diagnosis of bovine adenovirus is difficult due to a large number and identity of clinical symptoms with various diseases. For the diagnosis of adenoviral infection using various methods such as the isolation of the virus, in situ hybridization, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunofluorescence, restriction analysis and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The methods used are time consuming and require expensive equipment. In this regard, obtaining recombinant virus antigens of diagnostic importance is very important. One of the important diagnostic antigens is hexon, a group-specific protein that induces the formation of group-specific antibodies.

Under de novo conditions, the gene of the N-terminal fragment of hexon of BAV-3 with a length 503 base pairs was synthesized. A strain of     E. coli BL21/pET28/rhAdv3 producing recombinant hexon of BAV-3 (rhAdv3) was obtained. The protein produced by the strain BL21/pET28/rhAdv3 contains a hexa-histidine tag and has a molecular weight of 25 kDa. An analysis of the MS/MS data using the Mascot program and the SwissProt database showed that the highest rate (Score 2033) corresponded to a fragment of hexon of BAV-3.

The gene of the fragment of the N-terminal part of the hexon of BAV-3 was synthesized. The genetic construct pET28/rhAdv3 and the microorganism strain BL21/pET28/rhAdv3 producing rhAdv3 protein were obtained. rhAdv3 has the potential to develop test systems designed to diagnose adenoviral infection of farm animals.
BORRELIOSIS: A HIDDEN THREAT FOR KAZAKHSTAN
Authors: Bissenbay A.O. , Zhigailov A.V. , Maltseva E.R. , Egemberdieva R.A. , Skiba Y.A. , Mamadaliyev S.M.
Published: February 2022

Tick-borne borreliosis, commonly known as Lyme disease or Lyme borreliosis, is a natural focal zoonotic transmissive disease caused by the Borreliella burgdorferi sensu lato complex. If left untreated, the disease can cause damage to the nervous system, joints, or skin, as well as lead to development of chronic atrophic diseases. Diagnosis of borreliosis remains a challenge owing to variations in clinical symptoms and manifestations, simultaneous damage to several organs, and frequent latent persistence of the pathogen in the body, leading to misdiagnosis or late diagnosis. This situation results in defects or delays in the provision of medical care with a high frequency of residual consequences, resulting in temporary disability for the patient that imposes a significant social-economic burden. Ticks of the genus Ixodes are the main carrier of the disease, which inhabit the mountain regions of eastern and southeastern Kazakhstan. However,  the distribution area of these ticks has been expanding in recent years owing to the effects of climate change, resulting in an increase of natural foci of tick-borne borreliosis. We here provide updated data on the epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, and diagnostic methods for Lyme borreliosis, along with an overview of modern molecular methods for the analysis of borrelia. Moreover, we offer an overall assessment of the risks associated with this disease for Kazakhstan.
Between Worlds
Authors: Abrams Michael
Published: February 2022

Relatively few Native Americans become engineers. The barriers to increasing those numbers are issues such as poverty, poor schools, and a lack of role models. In this article, Native American engineers talk about their experiences and how their work stretches across generations.
A Century of ASME Steam Tables
Authors: Harvey Allan H. , Bellows James C.
Published: February 2022

ASME began working on developing its steam tables, which list standardized thermodynamic properties for water in its vapor, liquid, and supercritical states, at a meeting in Cambridge, Mass., on June 23, 1921. It took decades of building consensus before the first ASME Steam Tables could be published. Today, steam tables are so ubiquitous that most engineers take them for granted.
An Extended Reynolds Equation for Non-Newtonian Lubrication With the Upper Convected Maxwell Model
Authors: Grigor’ev Boris , Eliseev Artem
Published: February 2022

The upper convected Maxwell (UCM) model is one of the ways to describe lubricant’s viscoelasticity. In this paper, a new modified Reynolds equation for the UCM model is derived. This equation may be called extended as compared to its analogs because it incorporates the complete structure of the upper convected derivative without the explicit omitting of any term or using the perturbation technique. Then, a numerical scheme for solving the viscoelastic lubrication problems with the employment of the derived equation is described. A mixed Euler–Lagrange approach is used here: the constitutive rheological equations are resolved by a semi-Lagrangian technique and the extended Reynolds equation is discretized by the finite volume method. A constant surface slope problem is considered as a test case. Excellent agreement is achieved between the numerical solution at low Deborah number and one of the approximate solutions. The results of simulations with different types of time derivative used in Maxwell model both for two- and three-dimensional cases are also discussed.
The Viscoelastic Solution to Geertsma’s Subsidence Problem
Authors: Su Xing , Mehrabian Amin
Published: February 2022

This paper presents the viscoelastic analytical solution for stress and displacement due to prescribed time-varying changes in the pore fluid pressure of a disk-shaped inclusion embedded within a semi-infinite, viscoelastic medium. The correspondence principle of viscoelasticity, along with Hankel–Fourier and Laplace transforms, is used to derive the solution. The instantaneous viscoelastic solution, corresponding to the response immediately after the inclusion pore pressure change, recovers the elastic solution to the same problem (Geertsma 1973). Results are presented for fractional Maxwell and Burgers models of viscoelasticity after being applied to a set of experimental data from creep tests on shale. Solution results are demonstrated and discussed for the cases of constant inclusion depletion, as well as delayed injection of fluid into a previously depleted inclusion.
Nondestructive Surface Profiling and Inspection by Using a Single Unit Magneto-Eddy-Current Sensor
Authors: Kim Jungsub , Chun Heebum , Lee ChaBum
Published: February 2022

This paper presents a novel nondestructive testing system, magneto-eddy-current sensor (MECS), to enable surface profiling of dissimilar materials by combining magnetic sensing for ferromagnetic materials and eddy-current sensing for nonferromagnetic materials. The interactions between an electromagnetic field and nonferromagnetic surface and between a magnetic field and ferromagnetic surface were measured by the MECS. The MECS consists of a conic neodymium magnet and a copper coil wound around the magnet. Aluminum and steel surfaces bonded together were prepared to test nondestructive surface profiling of dissimilar materials by the MECS. The interactions between an electromagnetic field and aluminum surface were characterized by monitoring the impedance of the coil, and the interactions between a magnetic field and steel surface were characterized by using a force sensor attached to the neodymium magnet. The magnetic and electromagnetic effects were numerically analyzed by the finite element model. The developed MECS showed the following performance: measurement spot size 5 mm and 10 mm, dynamic measurement bandwidth (eddy-current sensing 1 kHz and magnetic sensing 200 Hz), measuring range 25 mm and 17 mm, polynomial fitting error 0.51% and 0.50%, and resolution 0.655 µm and 0.782 µm for nonferromagnetic and ferromagnetic surface profiling, respectively. This technique was also applied to surface profiling and inspection of the rivet joining sheet materials. The results showed that the MECS is capable of nondestructively monitoring and determining the riveting quality in a fast, large-area, low-cost, convenient manner.
Design of Phononic Bandgap Metamaterials Based on Gaussian Mixture Beta Variational Autoencoder and Iterative Model Updating
Authors: Wang Zihan , Xian Weikang , Baccouche M. Ridha , Lanzerath Horst , Li Ying , Xu Hongyi
Published: February 2022

Phononic bandgap metamaterials, which consist of periodic cellular structures, are capable of absorbing energy within a certain frequency range. Designing metamaterials that trap waves across a wide wave frequency range is still a challenging task. In this paper, we present a deep feature learning-based design framework for both unsupervised generative design and supervised learning-based exploitative optimization. The Gaussian mixture beta variational autoencoder (GM-βVAE) is used to extract latent features as design variables. Gaussian process (GP) regression models are trained to predict the relationship between latent features and properties for property-driven optimization. The optimal structural designs are reconstructed by mapping the optimized latent feature values to the original image space. Compared with the regular variational autoencoder (VAE), we demonstrate that GM-βVAE has a better learning capability and is able to generate a more diversified design set in unsupervised generative design. Furthermore, we propose an iterative GM-βVAE model updating-based design framework. In each iteration, the optimal designs found property-driven optimization is used to update the training dataset. The GM-βVAE model is re-trained with the updated dataset for the optimization search in the next iteration. The effectiveness of the iterative design framework is demonstrated by comparing the proposed designs with the designs found by the traditional single-loop design method and the topologically optimized designs reported in literatures. The caveats to designing phonic bandgap metamaterials are summarized.
Artificial Intelligence Design for Ship Structures: A Variant Multiple-Input Neural Network-Based Ship Resistance Prediction
Authors: Ao Yu , Li Yunbo , Gong Jiaye , Li Shaofan
Published: February 2022

In this work, we have developed a data-driven artificial intelligence (AI) solution to assist the ship hull design process. Specifically, we have developed and implemented an AI-based multiple-input neural network model to realize the real-time prediction of the total resistance of the ship hull structure while avoiding the inconsistent estimates from different types of design input parameters. It is demonstrated that the developed AI-based machine learning algorithm as a prediction tool can assist the ship hull design process by accurately providing the total resistance of ship hulls in real time. Moreover, we have conducted design tasks to validate the proposed method, and the validation results show that a well-trained artificial neural network model can avoid the problem of different sensitivities due to the different degrees of influence of the input parameters on the output parameter. The proposed AI-based data-driven solution provides a real-time hydrodynamic performance calculation, which can predict the hyperdynamic performances of ship hulls based on their geometry modification parameters. This approach gives a consistent prediction in terms of accuracy when facing different geometry modification parameters, and it in turn provides a fast and accurate AI-based method to assist ship hull design to achieve an optimum forecast accuracy in the entire design space, making an advance to artificial intelligence assist design in naval architecture engineering.
A Compact Mirror-Symmetrical XY Compliant Parallel Manipulator for Minimizing Parasitic Rotations
Authors: Zhu Jiaxiang , Hao Guangbo , Li Shiyao , Kong Xianwen
Published: February 2022

The design of XY compliant parallel manipulators (CPMs) remains challenging considering the tradeoff between mirror-symmetry for better constrained undesired rotations and a small footprint, although a significant number of XY CPMs have been reported in extensive applications. This paper presents a new XY CPM using mirror-symmetry without increasing its footprint, mainly aiming to reduce the undesired parasitic rotations of input and output motion stages. The concept of mirror-symmetry is deployed to tackle the parasitic rotations, with the help of using a multilayer compact XY CPM design method. A nonlinear and analytical model of the proposed XY CPM is derived using free body diagrams and the beam constraint model (BCM) to accurately analyze its performance characteristics over a large range of motion. The designed XY CPM is then verified by the nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA) method. Finally, the proposed multilayer design is fabricated using two pieces of aluminum plate and it is mounted in a measurement system to experimentally validate several performance characteristics. The analytical, FEA, and/or experimental results show that the proposed design can sufficiently constrain undesired motions including parasitic rotation of input and output stages, cross-axis coupling error, and actuator isolation index. Compared with exiting designs, the proposed design also shows its merits in large motion range and out-of-plane stiffness.
Compliance Realization With Planar Serial Mechanisms Having Fixed Link Lengths
Authors: Huang Shuguang , Schimmels Joseph M.
Published: February 2022

In this article, the synthesis of any specified planar compliance with a serial elastic mechanism having previously determined link lengths is addressed. For a general n-joint serial mechanism, easily assessed necessary conditions on joint locations for the realization of a given compliance are identified. Geometric construction-based synthesis procedures for five-joint and six-joint serial mechanisms having kinematically redundant fixed link lengths are developed. By using these procedures, a given serial manipulator can achieve a large set of different compliant behaviors by using variable stiffness actuation and by adjusting the mechanism configuration.
A Rigid Morphing Mechanism Enabled Earthworm-Like Crawling Robot
Authors: Luo Yudong , Zhao Na , Shen Yantao , Li Peng
Published: February 2022

Inspired by natural earthworms’ locomotion mechanism, this paper investigates how the earthworm’s muscle works and presents the approach to mimic segmental muscle by employing rigid elements-based morphing structures. Specifically, the proposed earthworm-like robot employs a class of 2D rigid elements and their array to achieve programable bidirectional 3D deformation, making the formed mechanism precisely controllable and work effectively, thus facilitating the robot’s peristaltic locomotion more efficient. To comprehensively investigate the morphing structure and its formed earthworm-like robot, the kinematics, mechanics, deformation-dependent locomotion framework with its adapted model, as well as the factors that affect the optimal velocity are developed and presented. Extensive simulations and experiments on the proposed robot are performed. The results verify the effectiveness of the morphing mechanism and it enabled earthworm-like robot and the consistency between the proposed locomotion model and the practical tests. The results also prove that regardless of the condition of the contact surface, the optimal phase shift angle can be achieved when each segment approximately contracts and relaxes once in one wavelength period. Our developed prototype achieves a speed of multiple body lengths per minute, which is very competitive compared with most developed earthworm-like robots.
CD97 promotes spleen dendritic cell homeostasis through the mechanosensing of red blood cells
Authors: Liu Dan , Duan Lihui , Rodda Lauren B. , Lu Erick , Xu Ying , An Jinping , Qiu Longhui , Liu Fengchun , Looney Mark R. , Yang Zhiyong , Allen Christopher D. C. , Li Zhongmei , Marson Alexander , Cyster Jason G.
Published: February 2022

Dendritic cells (DCs) are crucial for initiating adaptive immune responses. However, the factors that control DC positioning and homeostasis are incompletely understood. We found that type-2 conventional DCs (cDC2s) in the spleen depend on Gα
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and adhesion G protein–coupled receptor family member-E5 (Adgre5, or CD97) for positioning in blood-exposed locations. CD97 function required its autoproteolytic cleavage. CD55 is a CD97 ligand, and cDC2 interaction with CD55-expressing red blood cells (RBCs) under shear stress conditions caused extraction of the regulatory CD97 N-terminal fragment. Deficiency in CD55-CD97 signaling led to loss of splenic cDC2s into the circulation and defective lymphocyte responses to blood-borne antigens. Thus, CD97 mechanosensing of RBCs establishes a migration and gene expression program that optimizes the antigen capture and presentation functions of splenic cDC2s.
Vivid snapshots of the past
Otherlands
Thomas Halliday
Random House, 2022. 416 pp.
Authors: Grande Lance
Published: February 2022

A paleontologist offers an immersive look at pivotal moments in Earth’s history