bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of a candidate gene responsible for male sterility conferred by CMS-T cytoplasm in onion (Allium cepa L.) and development of molecular markers for detection of CMS-T cytoplasm
Authors: Ahn Wooseong , Kim Sunggil
Published: November 2022

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) has been exclusively used as an emasculation tool in seed production of hybrids in onion (Allium cepa L.).Three types of onion CMS (CMS-S, CMS-R, and CMS-T) have been used in hybrid onion breeding. Male sterility conferred by both CMS-S and CMS-R is likely induced by open reading frame (orf) 725, a chimeric gene. However, this gene was not detected in onion accessions containing CMS-T cytoplasm. Instead, a region showing high homology with orfA501, which is located in the 3’ end of orf725, was detected in CMS-T. A novel chimeric gene, which we named orf219, was identified by genome walking PCR amplification based on the orfA501 homolog. The 684-bp open reading frame of orf219 consisted of an 128-bp of exon 1 of atp1 and a 556-bp sequence of an orfA501 homolog. The high-copy-number orf219 was detected only in the CMS-T cytoplasm (T cytotype). Analysis of RT-PCR products showed normal transcription of orf219 and eight RNA editing sites, one of which created a stop codon, resulting in a shorter amino acid sequence upon translation. Sequences of four hypervariable regions in the chloroplast genome and the organization of syntenic blocks in mitochondrial genome indicated that CMS-T was very closely related to the normal (N) male-fertile and CMS-R cytotypes. Based on these findings, new molecular markers were developed for the identification of cytotypes CMS-T, -R, -S, and -N. Cytotypes of 424 diverse onion accessions were identified using six molecular markers. The CMS-S and CMS-R cytotypes predominated among the analyzed accessions. In contrast, only five accessions possessed CMS-T, supporting early reports that CMS-T is rarely used in hybrid-onion breeding.
Impact of apparent diffusion coefficient on prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma within Milan criteria: a case control study
Authors: Yamada Shinichiro , Morine Yuji , Ikemoto Tetsuya , Saito Yu , Teraoku Hiroki , Waki Yuhei , Nakasu Chiharu , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: November 2022

Background: We investigated the usefulness of apparent diffusion coefficients (ADC) from diffusion-weighted images (DWI) obtained using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) within Milan criteria.
Methods: We enrolled 102 patients who had undergone surgical resection for HCC within Milan criteria, and calculated their minimum ADC using DWI-MRI. We divided patients into ADCHigh (n=72) and ADCLow (n=30) groups, and compared clinicopathological factors between the two groups.
Results: The ADCLow group showed higher protein induced by vitamin K absence-II (PIVKA-II) levels (p=0.04) and higher rates of infiltrative growth (p=0.06) compared with the ADCHigh group. In overall survival, the ADCLow group showed significantly worse prognosis than the ADCHigh group (p<0.01). Univariate analysis identified infiltrative growth, high PIVKA-II, and low ADC value as prognostic factors. Multivariate analysis identified only low ADC value as an independent prognostic factor.
Conclusions: ADC values can be used to estimate the prognosis of HCC within Milan criteria.
Rivaroxaban in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein elevation (BANBOO): study protocol for a randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Li Jingyuan , Ma Sicong , Jia Xiu , Bu Yingzhen , Zhou Tienan , Zhang Lei , Qiu Miaohan , Wang Xiaozeng
Published: November 2022

BackgroundAbdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a fatal disease due to the propensity to rupture. The drug treatment for small AAA without surgical indications has been controversial. Previous studies showed that high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) had become a potential biomarker of the disease, and the anti-inflammatory effect of rivaroxaban for AAA has been corroborated. Thus, we hypothesized that rivaroxaban could control the progression of AAA in patients with hs-CRP elevation.MethodsThe study is a prospective, open-label, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Sixty subjects are recruited from the General Hospital of Northern Theatre Command of China. Subjects are randomly assigned (1:1) to the intervention arm (rivaroxaban) or control arm (aspirin). The primary efficacy outcome is the level of serum hs-CRP at six months. The secondary outcomes include imaging examination (the maximal diameter of AAA, the maximal thickness of mural thrombus, and the length of aneurysm), major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE, including AAA transformation, non-fatal myocardial infarction, acute congestive heart failure, stent thrombosis, ischemia-driven target vessel revascularization, vascular amputation, stroke, cardiovascular death, and all-cause death), other laboratory tests (troponin T, interleukin 6, D-dimer, and coagulation function).DiscussionThe BANBOO trial tested the effect of rivaroxaban on the progression of AAA in patients with elevated Hs-CRP for the first time.Trial registration:ChiCTR2100051990, ClinicalTrials.gov, registered October 12, 2021.
An African perspective on collaborative interprofessional curriculum evolvement: a qualitative reflection.
Authors: Pitout Hanlie , Barnard-Ashton Paula , Adams Fasloen , du Toit Sanetta
Published: November 2022

Background: Developing interprofessional education and collaborative practice curricula benefits from multiple perspectives. There is an abundance of literature available on such curricula, but very few combine research evidence with theoretical guidelines for planning.
Method: Brookfield’s theory guided a critical reflection of the development of a curriculum at a South African University, with his four identified Lenses focusing on perspectives of the: 1) principal investigator, 2) students, 3) lecturers and 4) available literature. Data were collected through focus groups with students and lecturers, a needs survey, events feedback, and review of literature. The aim of this paper is to clarify understanding and guide curriculum planning and development.
Results: The two identified themes encapsulated several categories each. Theme A addresses the formal curriculum and include embeddedness across professions curricula, highlighting the importance of buy-in from management, offering it across all years of study as an integrated subject and curriculum management issues. Further considerations are the content of the curriculum, presented through a scaffolded approach, addressing core competencies and benchmarking with other institutions. The methods used for teaching, learning and assessment included the preparation of lecturers to facilitate and use of a variety of learning and assessment methods. Theme B addresses teamwork between stakeholders, including the importance of role models, patient-centred care, appreciation of diversity e.g., vernacular of the professions and level of preparedness for IPECP and the importance and affordances in terms of egalitarian relationships based on respect and recognition and hegemony.
Conclusion: The lenses highlighted the complexity of curriculum planning and encapsulated both unique views as well as diverse complimentary perspectives of aspects to consider for buy-in of an IPECP curriculum.
Influences of nonlinear cross-diffusion on a reduced SI epidemic model with saturated treatment
Authors: Kumar Arun , Gupta Ravi Pratap , Tiwari Shristi
Published: November 2022

In this article, we suggest a novel nonlinear cross-diffusion to understand the distribution of susceptible and infected individuals in their habitat through an SIR epidemic model with saturated treatment under zero-flux boundary conditions. First, we examine the boundedness of solutions to the proposed spatio-temporal model using the theory of parabolic partial differential equations. We ensure that at least one non-constant positive steady state is admissible in the reduced SI model with the suggested cross-diffusion. We draw the conclusion that susceptible and infected populations may coexist in the presence of cross-diffusion. Furthermore, we have shown that the system exhibits Turing instability. Through the existence of codimension-2 Turing-Hopf bifurcation we determine the Turing space in the spatial domain. Due to various seasonal effects of diseases, we introduced two novel perturbations. A detailed numerical simulation is performed with these perturbations to illustrate various types of scenarios of pattern formation like holes, strips, and holes-strips mixtures inside the Turing space. Non-Turing and Turing-bogdanov-Takens patterns have also been observed for suitable parameter choices. The corresponding spatial series and surfaces are also plotted to clarify the results obtained for various patterns. This work provides a significant insight into how epidemic models can be influenced by cross-diffusion.
MSC 2020 No.: 35K57, 35B36, 92D25
A pairwise radiomics algorithm - lesion pair relation estimation (PRE) model for distinguishing multiple primary lung cancer (MPLC) from intrapulmonary metastasis (IPM)
Authors: Chen Ting-Fei , Yang Lei , Chen Hai-Bin , Yang Hao-Shuai , Wu Zhen-Tian , Luo Hong-He , Li Qiong , Zhu Ying
Published: November 2022

Background
Distinguishing multiple primary lung cancer (MPLC) from intrapulmonary metastasis (IPM) is critical for their disparate treatment strategy and prognosis. This study aimed to establish a non-invasive model to make the differentiation pre-operatively.
Methods
We retrospectively studied 168 patients with multiple lung cancers (307 pairs of lesions) including 118 cases for modeling and internal validation, and 50 cases for independent external validation. Radiomic features on computed tomography (CT) were extracted to calculate the absolute deviation of paired lesions. Features were then selected by correlation coefficients and random forest classifier five-fold cross-validation, based on which the lesion pair relation estimation (PRE) model was developed. A major voting strategy was used to decide diagnosis for cases with multiple pairs of lesions. Cases from another institute were included as the external validation set for the PRE model to compete with two experienced clinicians.
Results
Seven radiomic features were selected for the PRE model construction. With major voting strategy, the mean area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the training vs. internal validation vs. external validation cohort to distinguish MPLC were 0.983 vs. 0.844 vs. 0.793, 0.942 vs. 0.846 vs. 0.760, 0.905 vs. 0.728 vs. 0.727, and 0.962 vs. 0.910 vs. 0.769, respectively. AUCs of the two clinicians were 0.619 and 0.580.
Conclusions
The CT radiomic feature-based lesion PRE model is potentially an accurate diagnostic tool for the differentiation of MPLC and IPM, which could help with clinical decision making.
Characteristics of Retinal Image in Women with Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion
Authors: Wu Jiaman , Wang Erfeng , Li Jia , Lin Yanting , Ma Fei , Ning Yan , Zhuo Yuanyuan
Published: November 2022

Purpose To identify the characteristics of retinal image in women with recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). Methods A case-control study was conducted in the Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital. Eighty women who were diagnosed RSA were recruited. Those women who were age matched with the RSA group and experienced a successful birth history were chosen as the control group. Retinal images were collected and characteristics were analysed. Multivariable logistic model was built to identify the characteristics of retinal image. Results Compared to the control group, the patients with RSA had higher CRAE (P = 0.02), Vasym(P < 0.0001) and Aasym(P = 0.002), larger Aangle(P = 0.035), BCA(P < 0.0001) and more obvious Nicking(P = 0.001) and occlusion(P = 0.001) in the retinal artery, but lower AVR(P = 0.314) in retinal characteristics. The area under the ROC curve of the multivariable logistic regression was 0.8541 (95% C.I. 0.796–0.912). Conclusions Compared to the Normal pregnancy women, those with RSA had special retinal characteristics, which might provide useful information for RSA identification.
PickT: a decision-making tool that supports the optimal pickling process operation
Authors: Crisan Claudia Alice , Timis Elisabeta Cristina , Vermesan Horatiu
Published: November 2022

The knowledge gaps approached in this research are related to the dynamic modelling of the pickling process (the lack predictability and simplicity of the existing models) and to the process operation (its dependence on the initial conditions, such as the immersed surface, the immersed mass, and the corrosion inhibitor concentration). Original contributions regarding the identification of the optimum corrosion inhibitor concentration, the forecast of the corrosion rate and the appropriate timing for the acidic bath change, are offered with the help of a decision-making tool (PickT), developed, and verified with the help of measurements. Experiments consist in steel pickling (during 336h) in hydrochloric acid of industrial making (H2O:HCl, 1:1) with five different volumetric Cetilpyridinium bromide (CPB) as corrosion inhibitor. PickT has reliably and easy forecasted the corrosion rates, facilitating the estimation of the appropriate timing for the acidic bath change (250h) and of the optimum concentration of inhibitor of 12%. Results are in accordance with experimental findings. The tool advantages consist of the straightforward applicability, the low inputs requirements to make reliable forecasts and the accessibility for untrained professionals from the industry. From an industrial point of view, it supports decision to optimize the pickling process efficiency and facilitate cost savings: when to change the pickling solution, which is the optimum corrosion inhibitor addition, how much metal surface can be pickled using the same solution.
Model Reduction of Rotor-Foundation Systems Using the Approximate Invariant Manifold Method
Authors: Mereles Arthur Guilherme , Alves Diogo Stuani , Cavalca Katia Lucchesi
Published: November 2022

This work presents a model reduction method suited for performing nonlinear dynamic analysis of highdimensional rotor-foundation systems modeled by the finite element method. The approach consists in combining the Component Mode Synthesis (CMS) method with the Approximate Invariant Manifold Method (AIMM), and allows the obtention of forced responses through the integration of a single pair of ordinary differential equations. The proposed approach is tested using two examples: a simple and a complex rotor-foundation system. In both cases, the nonlinearity comes from the fluid-film bearings. The results show that the method can provide a significant reduction in numerical cost while still retaining good accuracy when compared with direct time integrations. By means of the proposed method, the nonlinear dynamic analysis of high-dimensional rotor-foundation system becomes a feasible option.
Runoff, sediment, organic carbon, and nutrient loads from a Canadian prairie micro-watershed under climate variability and land management practices
Authors: Liu Yongbo , VanNieuwenhuizen Nigel , Elliott Jane , Shrestha Rajesh , Yerubandi Ram
Published: November 2022

This study conducted a spatio-temporal analysis of runoff, total suspended sediment, suspended particulate carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus loadings within the 2.06 km2 Steppler subwatershed in southern Manitoba of Canada based on 11 years of field monitoring data collected at nine stations. Results showed that the nutrient losses were very small because of the implementation of multiple BMPs in the study area. However, a high spatio-temporal variation of runoff and water quality parameters was found for the nine fields within the subwatershed. The average runoff coefficient was 0.19 at the subwatershed outlet with sediment, suspended particulate carbon, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus losses of 73.8, 6.10, 4.54, and 0.76 kg/ha respectively. Spring snowmelt runoff was about 74.5% of the annual runoff at the subwatershed outlet, while for sediment, suspended particulate carbon, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus, the proportions were 61.1%, 63.6%, 74.9%, and 81.2% respectively during the monitoring period, which suggests that BMPs designed for reducing nutrient loadings from snowmelt runoff would be more effective than BMPs designed for reducing pollutant loading from rainfall storms in the study area. Research findings from this study will benefit the enhancement of current BMPs and the development of new BMPs in the region to minimize soil and nutrient losses from agricultural fields and improve water quality in receiving water bodies.
"You're stuck in the middle here": A qualitative study of GPs' experiences of managing knee pain attributed to a degenerative meniscal tears
Authors: O'Leary Helen , McCreesh Karen , Robinson Katie , Glynn Liam , Lenehan Brian
Published: November 2022

Background
Exercise is the recommended first-line therapy for a degenerative meniscal tear (DMT). Despite this, knee pain attributed to DMTs is a common presentation to specialist orthopaedic clinics. In the primary care setting, the general practitioner (GP) plays a central role in managing patients with knee pain, but to date their perspective has not been explored in relation to DMTs. This study explored GPs' experiences of managing people with knee pain attributed to a DMT.
Methods
A qualitative research design was adopted and practices in the South and Mid-West of Ireland were contacted via recruitment emails circulated through professional and research networks. Interested GPs contacted the researchers via email, and purposive and snowball sampling was used for recruitment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted online or over the telephone. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed. Data was analysed using an inductive approach to thematic analysis. Ethical approval was granted by the Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP_REC_21_0031).
Results
Seventeen semi-structured one-on-one interviews were conducted. Three main themes were identified with related subthemes: 1) GPs’ experiences of relational aspects of care, 2) GP beliefs about what constitutes best care for patients with a DMT, and 3) how GP practice is enacted within the current healthcare setting. GPs described the challenge of maintaining a strong clinical alliance, while managing perceived patient expectations of a ‘quick fix’ and advanced imaging. They reported slowing down clinical decisions and feeling ‘stuck’ with limited options when conservative treatment had failed. GPs believed that exercise should be the core treatment for DMTs and emphasised engaging patients in an active approach to recovery. Some GPs believed arthroscopy had a role in circumstances where patients didn’t improve with physiotherapy. Limited access to public physiotherapy and orthopaedic services hampered GPs’ management plans and negatively impacted patient outcomes.
Conclusions
GP beliefs around what constitutes best care for a DMT generally aligned with the evidence base. Nonetheless, there was sometimes tension between these beliefs and the patient’s own treatment expectations. The ability to enact their beliefs was hampered by limited access to conservative management options, sometimes leading to early escalation of care.
Handling Error Traps in Difficult Airway Management in Paediatric Patients With Mandible Tumour: Lessons Learned From Two Cases
Authors: Zahrah Raihanita , Untari Arie , Pramodana Bintang , Ramlan Andi Ade Wijaya , Kwa Melvin Dikwan Bernaldi
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Various factors can cause difficult airways in the paediatric population, such as congenital anomalies, obstruction, tumours, etc. Failure in managing difficult airways in children is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. We present a case series of how identifying error traps will improve patient care and safety.

Case

We present two similar cases of children with impending airway obstruction due to mandible tumours who were indicated for an urgent tracheostomy. In the first case, there was an airway management failure (cannot intubate, cannot oxygenate). The patient deteriorated rapidly and died in the operating theatre. Aftermath, we conducted a multidisciplinary discussion of experts and analysed this sentinel case. In the first case, there were some error traps related to preparation, performance, and proficiency. Thus, recommendations were advised. The second case occurred 14 days following the first one. This time we delivered the airway management by implementing the recommendation from previous case failures, which were: choosing the appropriate anaesthesia technique and airway device, performing adequate passive oxygenation before an intubation attempt, having a mitigation plan, and communicating it with the surgeon. Also, an airway expert should always be available to be consulted. Lastly, conducting a debriefing with the team involved after the procedure to identify the experienced problems. The team managed to perform the tracheostomy on the second child successfully.

Conclusion

Mortality and morbidity due to airway management failure in paediatric patients with difficult airways could be reduced by averting error traps and following the recommendation to have better preparation in airway management techniques and planning, good inter-team communication and coordination, and consult a more experienced anaesthesiologist to lead the team.
Mathematical Modeling of the Aerodynamic Coefficients of a Sail Blade
Authors: Tleubergenova Akmaral Zharylgasynovna , Tanasheva Nazgul Kadyralievna , Shaimerdenova Kuljan Meiramovna , Kasymov Serik Sagimbekovich , Shuyushbayeva Nurgul Naizabekovna , Uzbergenova Saule Zheksebeevna , Ranova Gulden Amanbayevna
Published: November 2022

For more than a hundred years, wind turbines have been used to convert the potential of wind energy into electricity. In recent years, a trend has emerged in the form of a sharp increase in fossil fuel prices, as a result of which the development and production of wind turbines has greatly increased. The market for wind turbines is broad; however, in general, many of them are designed for relatively high wind speeds, typically from 10 to 15 m/s at low power. Central Asia is known for lower wind speeds, so the commercial wind turbines do not meet the energy demand. Against this background, the current topic is the development and research of wind turbines and their functional elements for low wind speeds, among whose representatives is the sail. The authors of the paper numerically studied the aerodynamic coefficients of the sail blade, determining the patterns of three-dimensional air flow around it and the pressure distribution field. The sail blade was modeled using the computer program ANSYS FLUENT based on the Reynolds-averaged (RANS) Navier-Stokes equations. The inflow velocity varied from 3 to 15 m/s. Comparative analyzes of the theoretical and experimental results are given. The patterns of changes in aerodynamic parameters determined by the authors could contribute to the understanding of the complex aerodynamic patterns of a turbulent flow around the blades.
The natural product erianin induces melanoma apoptosis through targeting the GSK3α-NF-κB pathway
Authors: Lu Linna , Zuo Sipeng , Li Lin , Li Rui , Ye Fuxiang
Published: November 2022

Erianin has been reported to play key roles in suppressing a wide variety of tumors. However, the anti-carcinogenic mechanism underlying erianin remains to be fully elucidated. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was assessed to determine the influence of erianin on melanoma in vitro. In vivo, tumor-bearing models in nude mice were established to investigate the impact of erianin on the growth of melanoma cells. Transcriptome screening was performed to identify meaningful targets. Molecular docking and Western blotting were performed to verify the GSK3α-NF-κB cascade reaction. Herein, we report the finding that erianin is an efficient inhibitor of melanoma. Erianin selectively suppressed the growth of melanoma cells but not normal human melanocytes. Specifically, erianin downregulated the cellular GSK3α-NF-κB pathway to induce melanoma cell apoptosis. Collectively, we initially demonstrated that erianin effectively inhibited melanoma, which was caused by inactivation of GSK3α-NF-κB signaling inducing melanoma cell apoptosis. Thus, the study implies that erianin provides a novel therapeutic strategy for melanoma therapy.
Fine structure of a partition in the spike glycoprotein encoded in the SARS-CoV-2 genome
Authors: Morimoto Susumu
Published: November 2022

The gene encoding the spike glycoprotein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 disease, was analyzed through two types of periodic tables (standard and cube) of the genetic code to discover the internal fine structure of the spike (S) protein. The analysis was performed on the Wuhan-Hu-1 SARS-CoV-2 sequence (GenBank accession number NC_045512.2). A partition was detected between codon numbers (three-letter code numbers) 47 and 48 that code amino acids in the S-protein. The population distribution of organized codes and amino acid replacements in the S-protein showed large differences between two regions of the cube-type periodic table. The genetic codes of codon numbers 48–63 (4th plane of the cube table) had a higher frequency than the genetic codes of each of the other three planes (1st–3rd planes). Planes-linkage structures involved in the partition were also analyzed and a simplified model for the S-protein gene was obtained where a planes-linkage of the 4th plane and another planes-linkage of the 1st–3rd planes were linked together in alternate shifts. Most of the code population in the 4th plane and their planes-linkage multiformity gave additional support to the partition between codon numbers 47 and 48 in the S-protein gene. Analysis of real lineages of the SARS-CoV-2 virus through the cube-type periodic table identified distinguishing features of the Omicron lineage that included not only a large code population within the receptor-binding domain of the S-protein, but also large percentage rises in the population of amino acid replacements in the 1st and 2nd planes.
Operation Range Enhancement for Alkaline Electrolysers Driven by Renewable Energy Sources
Authors: Xia Yanghong , Cheng Haoran , He Hanghang , Wei Wei
Published: November 2022

Low-cost and mature alkaline water electrolysis is suitable for large-scale hydrogen production from renewable energy sources (RESs). However, the poor low-load performance of alkaline water electrolysers (AWEs) makes it difficult to follow fluctuant RESs in full range. For low-load AWEs, existing researches only pay attention to the impurity problem and its solutions, but here, we find other two urgent problems to be solved, namely inefficiency and inconsistency. Through the detailed operation process analysis of AWEs and the established equivalent electrical model, the inefficiency and inconsistency mechanisms of low-load AWEs are revealed. Furthermore, an overcurrent pulse-width modulation method is proposed to enhance the efficiency and consistency of AWEs. Especially, compared to the conventional dc power supply, 1) the maximum efficiency improvement can exceed two times, 2) the operation range can be extended to 10% of rated load. The proposed method just changes the power supply, it can be easily generalized and can facilitate the hydrogen production from RESs.
MOLECULAR DYNAMICS SIMULATION OF FOUR BIFLAVONOIDS WITH THE LEISHMANOLYSIN (gp63) PROTEIN OF Leishmania major
Authors: Mercado-Camargo Jairo , Cervantes-Ceballos Leonor , Vivas-Reyes Ricardo , Olmo-Fernández Esther , Gómez-Estrada Harold
Published: November 2022

Leishmanolisyn (gp63) is a 63 kDa surface metalloprotease belonging to the M8 family (subclan MA (M), metzincines) that is found in both promastigote and amastigote ofleishmania ssp. It constitutes one of the virulence factors in the pathogenesis of Leishmania spp., being crucial in its entry into the macrophage and in complement activation. Therefore, gp63 may be a therapeutic alternative for potential new drugs needed to combat this disease. Among the many functional groups of naturally occurring compounds, the biflavonoids amentoflavone (A), lanaraflavone (L), podocarpusflavone A (PA), and podocarpusflovone B (PB) are promising candidate ligands for the treatment of all forms of leishmaniasis. In this study we carried out the validated molecular dynamics simulation with GROMACS, using mean square deviation (RMSD), mean square fluctuation (RMSF), the radius of gyration (Rg), and intermolecular hydrogen bonds (H-bonds) between the gp63 protein ofL. major(1LML) in complex with the four biflavonoids. In addition, the free binding energies were estimated using the MM-PBSA method, to determine their stability in the active site of the protein. The computational analysis revealed that the interaction of lanaroflavone (ΔGBing= -156.75 ± 31.91 Kcal/mol forL. major) remained stable in this enzyme, revealing their remarkable potential as a possible antileishmanial agent to combat the Leishmania parasite. On the other hand, amentoflavone, podocarpusflavone A, and B also showed a good affinity for both metalloproteases according to the ΔGbindvalues obtained.
A noval high-order discretization method for the milling stability prediction considering the differential of directional cutting coefficient and vibration velocities
Authors: Song Chunlei
Published: November 2022

A novel high-order discretization method for the prediction of milling stability is proposed in this paper to increase the accuracy and efficiency considering the differential of directional cutting coefficient and vibration velocities. Same to the existing full discretization method (FDM) and semi discretization method (SDM), the milling system is expressed as a linear time-periodic equation and the time period is discretized into discrete time intervals to approximate the solution. In this algorithm, the cutting force coefficient matrix of the whole integrand is reconstructed to lay the foundation for the fast and accurate approximation. Then, the monodromy matrix (or the Floquet matrix) is calculated by the method used in the temporal finite element analysis (TFEA) instead of the multiple recursive algorithms which can improve the computational time. Finally, the computational efficiency is defined in a new way which gives quantitative comparisons for different discretization methods. It is shown that proposed method can reduce the computational cost by 91–95% when the same errors are required .
Effect of Lithium Administration on Brain Activity Under an Emotion Regulation Paradigm in Healthy Participants: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Hortelano Pilar Artiach , Martens Marieke A G , Pringle Abigail , Harmer Catherine J
Published: November 2022

Rationale:
Emotion Regulation (ER) difficulties have been previously described in bipolar disorder (BD). Whilst lithium has been shown to be effective in the treatment of BD, the mechanisms underlying lithium’s effect on mood stabilisation remain unclear.
Objectives
Unravelling lithium’s effect on psychological processes impaired in BD, such as ER, could address this translational gap and inform the development of new treatments.
Methods
This study investigated the neural effects of lithium on ER in 36 healthy volunteers in a double-blind between-groups design, with randomised administration of lithium or placebo for 11 days. At treatment completion, participants underwent 3- Tesla functional magnetic resonance imaging while performing an ER task. Participants viewed negative images and were instructed to maintain or reappraise the elicited emotions and rate the negative affect experienced.
Results
During reappraisal (versus maintain), lithium increased activity in the right middle temporal gyrus (MTG, Z > 3.1, p < 0.05 corrected) and decreased activation in the left angular gyrus, the left anterior prefrontal cortex (or rostral PFC, BA10) and right superior frontal gyrus (Z > 2.3, p < 0.05 corrected). In addition, greater connectivity was found between the right MTG and left middle frontal gyrus for the lithium group compared to placebo, during reappraisal (versus maintain) (Z > 2.3, p < 0.05 corrected). Further effects of lithium were found in response to negative picture presentation, whereby decreased connectivity was found between the left amygdala and the frontal cortex, and greater connectivity between the right MTG and the bilateral medial prefrontal cortex extending into the paracingulate gyrus, compared to placebo (Z > 2.3, p < 0.05 corrected).
Conclusions
These results show a potential effect of lithium on ER through its effects on activity and connectivity, and further elaborate the neural underpinnings of cognitive reappraisal. Future work should investigate more extended effects of lithium on ER, ultimately benefitting the development of novel and more effective treatments for BD.
Cryptic cycles of microbial hydrocarbon production and degradation along freshwater-saltwater ecosystem gradients
Authors: Vigneron Adrien , Cruaud Perrine , Lovejoy Connie , Vincent Warwick
Published: November 2022

Cyanobacteria produce vast quantities of long-chain alkanes in the ocean, yet these do not accumulate in the water column, suggesting rapid co-localized biodegradation. The identities of microbes in this cryptic hydrocarbon cycle are mostly unknown, and are unexplored across marine-freshwater gradients. Analyzing genes and metagenome assembled genomes from a remote, pristine, petroleum-free and meromictic lake in the High Arctic, we detected microbial hydrocarbon production and degradation pathways at all depths, from surface freshwaters to dark, saline, anoxic waters. In addition to Cyanobacteria, members of the phyla Flavobacteria, Nitrospina, Deltaproteobacteria, Planctomycetes and Verrucomicrobia had pathways for hydrocarbon production, providing additional sources of biogenic hydrocarbons. Classic oil-degrading microorganisms were poorly represented in the system, while long-chain hydrocarbon degradation genes were identified in various freshwater and marine lineages such as Actinobacteria, Schleiferiaceae and Marinimicrobia. This suggests that biogenic hydrocarbons could sustain a large fraction of freshwater and oceanic microbiomes, with global biogeochemical implications.
Case Report: Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery for Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation Using Near-Infrared Fluorescence with Indocyanine Green
Authors: Han Tianxiao , Gao Jian , Wang Zhenfan , Zhou Jian
Published: November 2022

Background: Pulmonary arteriovenous malformation (PAVM) is an abnormal communication between pulmonary vasculatures and has an unclear boundary with surrounding lung tissues. At present, surgeons can only determine its location by preoperative imaging and intraoperative palpation, despite its soft texture. Indocyanine green, a near-infrared fluorophore, has been demonstrated useful in the accurate identification of vascular tissue. Therefore, we explored its application in PAVM cases.
Case presentation: we present two PAVM cases using near-infrared fluorescence (NIF) with 25 mg ICG at 5 mg/ml to achieve intraoperative visualization of the lesion in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), with one for relieving symptoms and the other for complicated lung disease requiring surgery. Under the NIF mode, ICG systemic injection led to successive signaling of the anomaly and normal tissues in merely 10 seconds, which helped us distinguish them efficiently and precisely. A peak signal-to-background ratio of 2.2 confirmed the significant fluorescence difference as well and excluded interference from carbon dust furthermore.
Conclusions:We are the first to report the use of such an approach in delineating the margin of vascular malformation with high contrast and this new finding may be helpful to minimize the damage to lung function in PAVM treatment. Further exploration and validation are needed to determine its role.
A Causal Analysis of Financial Development and Economic Growth
Authors: Islam Tanweer Ul , Ahmad Muneeb-ud-din
Published: November 2022

In terms of cause and effect, financial development and economic growth relationship has been a major empirical issue for researchers and policy makers. This study explores the causal linkages between financial development and economic growth catering for country specificity and structural shocks pertaining to different cross sections in SAARC and ASEAN countries by calling in the bootstrapping technique proposed by Kónya (2006). We considered the panel estimation to allow for contemporaneous correlations and performed Wald test for Granger Causality with country specific bootstrap critical values catering for structural breaks. Empirical investigation reveals the existence of both the demand and supply leading phenomena for the selected period of 1980–2017. The direction of causality is sensitive measures and proxies used for financial development.
Discovery of pentacyclic triterpenoid saponins with anti-proliferative activities from Ardisia lindleyana
Authors: Wei Zhen-Zhen , Zhou Ti-Qiang , Zhang Jing-Rui , Xia Zi-Ming , Liu Si-Fan , Liu Chun-Ying , Li Min , Zhang Guang-Jie , Tian Ying , Li Bin , Wang Lin , Liu Shu-Chen
Published: November 2022

One new pentacyclic triterpenoid saponin, ardisiapunine E (1), along with two known compounds were isolated from the root of Ardisia lindleyana D.Dietr. Their structures were elucidated by 1H and 13C NMR, DEPT, HMBC, HSQC, 1H-1H COSY and NOESY spectroscopic analyses, ESI-MS, and literature. Compounds 1-3 exhibited obvious anti-proliferative activities against HeLa cell line in a dose- and time-dependent manner through inducing G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis in vitro, both consisting of pentacyclic triterpenes and sugar. Hence, this study identified a new and two known pentacyclic triterpenoid saponin promoting apoptosis as a potential therapeutic option for cancer.
Molecular dynamics simulation of mechanical properties of carbon nanotube reinforced cellulose
Authors: Li Kecheng , Qi DEWEI
Published: November 2022

Cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin are the major chemical components in wood paper. Various types of wet and dry strength additives are used to enhance the optical and mechanical properties of recycled paper. One of possible materials is carbon nanotube. In order to explore probability of use of carbon nanotubes as reinforcing materials and to understand how carbon nanotubes affect the mechanical properties of paper, a single walled carbon nanotube is inserted into a Iβ cellulose nanocrystal, its mechanical properties are studied by using energy minimization and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. During simulations, the crystals are stretched in axial direction at a constant speed and stress and strain are computed and recorded at atomic level. Our results show that carbon nanotube can significantly enhance mechanical properties of paper.
Association of full premedication on tracheal intubation outcomes in the neonatal intensive care unit: an observational cohort study
Authors: Neches Sara , Brei Brianna , Umoren Rachel , Gray Megan , Nishisaki Akira , Foglia Elizabeth , Sawyer Taylor
Published: November 2022

Objective: Evaluate the association of short-term tracheal intubation (TI) outcomes with premedication in the NICU.
Study Design: Observational single-center cohort study comparing TIs with full premedication (opiate analgesia and vagolytic and paralytic), partial premedication, and no premedication. The primary outcome is adverse TI associated events (TIAEs) in intubations with full premedication compared to those with partial or no premedication. Secondary outcomes included change in heart rate and first attempt TI success.
Results: 352 encounters in 253 infants (median gestation 28 weeks, birth weight 1100g) were analyzed. TI with full premedication was associated with fewer TIAEs aOR 0.26 (95%CI 0.1-0.6) compared with no premedication, and higher first attempt success aOR 2.7 (95%CI 1.3-4.5) compared with partial premedication after adjusting for patient and provider characteristics.
Conclusion: The use of full premedication for neonatal TI, including an opiate, vagolytic, and paralytic, is associated with fewer adverse events compared with no and partial premedication.
A large special posterior mitral valve aneurysm without infective endocarditis and literature review
Authors: Hu Wan Yu , Wang Bei , Zhao Bo-wen , Li Shi-yan
Published: November 2022

Background

Mitral valve aneurysm (MVA) was a saccular bulging on mitral valves. It often occurred in anterior leaflet and commonly caused by aortic valve regurgitation complicated by infective endocarditis.

Case presentation

We reported a 68-year-old female with MVA of posterior leaflet without infective endocarditis. The aneurysm was large and the characteristics of its echo imaging was special, because the saccular structure did not collapse during diastole in real time three dimentional transesophageal echocardiography (RT-3D-TEE). But direct communication between the mass and the left ventricle was detected in this patient. This jet flow from left ventricle into the aneurysm help us distinguish MVA from mass. The patient was uneventful after mitral valve plasty surgery in 2 years’ follow-up.

Conclusion

We diagnosed a large MVA of posterior leaflet without endocarditis by RT-3D-TEE here. Large MVAs did not collapse in diastole, but the jet flow from left ventricle into the aneurysm can help us distinguish MVA from mass. Besides, RT-3D-TEE was more reliable to diagnose and assess MVA than 2-dimentional transthoracic echocardiography.
Benzothiazole and benzoxazole promoted cleavage of Ru-C(aryl) bond in a four-membered ortho-metalated Ruthenium(II) organometallics
Authors: Chowdhury Jagannath , Ghosh Mrinal Kanti , Garu Purnananda , Chattopadhyay Swarup
Published: November 2022

The four-membered ruthenium(II) organometallics Ru(η2-RL)(PPh3)2(CO)(Cl) (1) where η2-RL = C6H2O-2-CHNHC6H4R(p)-3-Me-5 and R = CH3 reacts with 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazole (Hhpbt) and 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)benzoxazole (Hhpbo) in refluxing ethanol to afford Ru(PPh3)2(CO)(hpbt)Cl (2) and Ru(PPh3)2(CO)(hpbo)Cl (3) respectively in excellent yield. In the course of these reactions the Ru-C(aryl) bond in 1 is cleaved and the RL ligand is no longer coordinated with the metal center in the products. The spectral (UV-vis, IR, 1H NMR) and electrochemical data of the complexes are reported. The identity of complex 2 has been established by single-crystal X–ray structure determination. The electronic structure and the absorption spectra of the complexes are scrutinized by DFT and TD-DFT analyses.
Serum CA19-9 as a predictor of incident metabolic syndrome in obese middle-aged and older men: A 9-year cohort study
Authors: Chang Pi-Kai , Hu Je-Ming , Wu Li-Wei
Published: November 2022

The status of carbohydrate antigen 19 − 9 (CA19-9) in metabolic syndrome (MetS) is unknown. From 2007 to 2015, 1,750 participants were retrospectively reviewed; health checkup data were obtained. Participants were divided into three groups based on CA19-9 levels. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and blood pressure were determined. Blood samples were collected after fasting for > 8 hours, to measure biochemical parameters and tumor markers. Cox regression analysis showed that, after adjusting for covariates, the highest CA19-9 tertile was associated with an increased risk of incident MetS (P = 0.002), high systolic blood pressure (≥ 130 mmHg; P < 0.001), high WC (≥ 90 cm; P < 0.001), and high fasting plasma glucose (≥ 100 mg/dL; P = 0.001), low high-density lipoprotein (≤ 50 mg/dL; P = 0.001), and high triglyceride (≥ 150 mg/dL; P = 0.001) levels. Subgroup analysis showed that individuals in the highest CA19-9 tertile who were obese (BMI ≥ 24 kg/m2; P = 0.002), male (P = 0.001), and ≥ 50 years of age (P = 0.002) were at increased risk of incident MetS. Our results revealed a positive correlation between CA19-9 levels and MetS in obese middle-aged and older men.
Discovery biomarker to optimize obeticholic acid treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Lee Seung Min , Jun Dae Won , Yoon Eileen Laurel , Oh Ju Hee , Roh Yoon Jin , Lee Eun Jeoung , Shin Ji-Hee , Nam Young-Do , Kim Hyun Sung
Published: November 2022

Background & Aims: Though obeticholic acid (OCA) is a promising drug for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the response rate of OCA is limited. This study aimed to develop a biomarker to optimize OCA treatment for NAFLD.
Methods: C57BL/6N mice males were fed on a western diet for 24 weeks. Pre-study liver biopsy performed at 12 weeks, and stratified according to disease severity. Next, the mice were administered with OCA (5 mg/kg/day) or vehicle for additional eight weeks. Hepatic transcriptome, metabolome and intestinal microbiome analyses compared according to OCA treatment responder and non-responder using pre-study and end of study samples. LX-2 cells transfected with short-interfering RNA against CYP7B1(siCYP7B1) and/or treated with OCA to evaluate the role of CYP7B1 in NAFLD.
Results: Resolution rate of steatohepatitis in the OCA and vehicle groups were 36.8% and 0%, respectively. The hepatic transcriptome and bile acid metabolite profile analyses revealed that the alternative bile acid synthesis pathway (Cyp7b1 and muricholic acid) in the OCA-responder group were upregulated compared with those in the OCA-non-responder group. Intestinal microbiome analysis also revealed that the abundances of Bacteroidaceae, Parabacteroides, and Bacteroides, which were positively correlated with the alternative bile acid synthesis pathway, were higher in the OCA-responder group than in the non-responder group. Pre-study hepatic mRNA levels of Cyp8b1 (classic pathway) were downregulated in the OCA-responder group. The OCA response rate increased up to 80% in cases with a hepatic Cyp7b1/Cyp8b1 ratio ≥ 5.0. CYP7B1 expression was regulated by glucose concentration, and anti-fibrotic effect of OCA showed CYP7B1 dependent manner.
Conclusion: The upregulated alternative bile acid synthesis pathway or high hepatic CYP7B1 can be a potential biomarker for predicting OCA response.
Diurnal rhythm in cortical chloride homeostasis underpins functional changes in visual cortex excitability
Authors: Pracucci Enrico , Graham Robert , Alberio Laura , Nardi Gabriele , Cozzolino Olga , Pasquini Giacomo , Pillai Vinoshene , Saieva Luciano , Walsh Darren , Landi Silvia , Zhang Jinwei , Trevelyan Andrew , Ratto Gian Michele
Published: November 2022

Fast synaptic inhibition is a primary determinant of cortical activity patterns, and it is mediated predominantly by ionotropic, chloride-conducting receptors. Consequently, modulation of chloride homeostasis is ideally placed to regulate activity. We therefore investigated the stability of steady-state [Cl-]i in adult mice neocortex, using in vivo two photon imaging. We found a two-fold increase in baseline [Cl-]i in layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons, from day to night, with marked effects upon both physiological cortical processing and seizure susceptibility. Importantly, the night-time activity can be converted to day-time patterns by local inhibition of NKCC1. Consistent with these findings, the surface expression and phosphorylation states of the cation-chloride cotransporters, NKCC1 and KCC2, are diurnally modulated, with reduced chloride extrusion capacity at night. These data indicate that [Cl-]i modulation is likely to be an important determinant of variable cortical excitability, through the day.