bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecofriendly power generation of bifacial solar photovoltaic module with waste Polyvinyl chloride flex and Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene road side safety sticker as an alternative reflector: Optimization using Box- Behnken design-based Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Thangaraj Hariharasudhan , David Prince Winston , Balachandran Gurukarthik Babu , Murugesan Pravin
Published: October 2022

Bifacial photovoltaics (PV) is gaining rapid attention and their ability to generate more electricity is accelerating their deployment globally. However, literature on optimal bifacial PV is presented for the installation parameters of the system. In this study, we use response surface methodology (RSM) to investigate the flex and roadside reflector wastes as alternate reflectors for bifacial solar PV panels by using a statistical model. Our primary objective in this study is to examine the significant influence of key input factors (front irradiation, rear irradiation, temperature, thickness, and height) on the irradiance factor, total solar reflectance, and power extracted. The results show that the power extraction of the bifacial PV module using the waste flex material is 9%, higher than that of the road side sticker waste. The result indicates that among all other input factors, front irradiation is the most significant parameter.
Relationships between chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps and obstructive sleep apnea in male patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Xiaoai , Zhang Qianqian , Cheng Xiangyu , Wu Xiaolin , Xu Huajun , Zhu Huaming , Li Xinyi , Feng Yunhai , Ye Haibo
Published: October 2022

Purpose: Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) often have sleep impairments, and this issue is closely related to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, research using objective examinations to evaluate sleep quality in inpatients with CRS is lacking. This study aimed to explore the sleeping characteristics of CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) when comorbid with OSA using polysomnography (PSG).
Methods: For this cross-sectional, single-center study, we recruited 147 adult male inpatients diagnosed with CRSsNP between March 2019 and April 2020. OSA was diagnosed using standard PSG. The patients were classified into two groups according to their apnea–hypopnea index value: CRSsNP with OSA and CRSsNP without OSA. Demographic features and sleep parameters were evaluated and compared between the groups.
Results: Inpatients with CRSsNP had a high risk of OSA (61.2%). The CRSsNP with OSA group had a higher prevalence of obesity, slept for less time, and were more easily aroused during sleep ( P < 0.001, P = 0.002, and P = 0.001, respectively) than the CRSsNP without OSA group. Logistic regression analysis revealed that patients with CRSsNP and comorbid OSA had a higher risk of microarousal, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.037 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.007–1.068). This association remained significant, even after adjusting for age and body mass index (OR: 1.037, 95% CI: 1.002–1.074; P = 0.036).
Conclusions: Patients with CRSsNP had poor sleep quality and a high risk of OSA. An exaggerated sleeping discontinuity exists in patients with CRSsNP.
Hydrologic Connectivity and Flow Generation from California Vernal Pool, Swale, and Headwater Stream Complexes to Downstream Waters
Authors: Stepchinski Leanne M. , Rains Mark C. , Lee Lyndon C. , Lis Richard A. , Nutter Wade L. , Rains Kai C. , Stewart Scott R.
Published: October 2022

Many headwater wetlands are integrated into flowpath networks and can serve as sources of streamflow for downgradient waters. We demonstrate this with five years of data in vernal pool, swale, and headwater stream complexes in the Central Valley, California. Long-term United States Geological Survey data suggest that the mean flow duration from the smallest watersheds in this region, including those with vernal pool, swale, and headwater stream complexes, is ~ 85 days per year. Our data concur, indicating that the annual days of flow per year from our vernal pool, swale, and headwater stream complexes ranges from ~ 20–200, but is ~ 85 when annual precipitation is 100% of normal. Peak stages are evident first in vernal pools which then propagate sequentially downstream through swales, headwater streams, and to the Sacramento River at celerities of ~ 1-1.5 m/s, consistent with expected flood wave velocities. Geospatial analyses show that these vernal pool, swale, and headwater stream features cover > 4% of the study area. Our results suggest these systems can be significant sources of streamflow, and therefore play an important role in maintaining the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of downstream waters, which has important implications for the definition of waters of the United States subject to regulation under the Clean Water Act.
An Application of Social Marketing for Promoting HIV Testing in Iran
Authors: Alipour Fatemeh , Shams Mohsen , Maleki Mostafa , Mousavizadeh Ali
Published: October 2022

Background: It has been estimated that 60,000 Iranians were infected with HIV/AIDS and only 36% of them are aware of their status. This study aimed to design, implement and evaluate a social marketing campaign to promote HIV testing in Boyer-Ahmad County, Kohgiluyeh, and Boyer-Ahmad Province, southwest of Iran.
Materials and Methods: This study was a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest without a control group, developed based on a social marketing assessment and response tool. To design the intervention formative research was conducted, comprised of four focus group discussion sessions with 42 participants of the target community along with seven semi-structured interviews with health care providers involved in the HIV/AIDS Program. Data analysis was done manually using content analysis and the main content was formulated for the campaign. Afterward, the slogan and messages of the campaign were developed. The campaign’s materials including banners, posters, pamphlets, referral forms, and short messages were designed, pretested, and revised. Ultimately, the campaign was conducted for one month in October 2019. To determine the effectiveness of the campaign, the rate of referrals to the Center for Behavioral Health Counseling Services (CBHCS) for three months before and after the campaign was compared.
Results: The findings of the qualitative study showed that the majority of the interviewees mentioned that the main reasons for the low rate of referrals to get tested for HIV were lack of awareness and information about HIV/AIDS and its diagnosis as well as the (CBHCS) including its free and confidential tests. Moreover, the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS was introduced as one other important reason for low referrals for testing. The rate of referrals for HIV testing in three months leading up to the campaign was 18, 32, and 23 people, and three months after the campaign was 64, 81, and 44 individuals; respectively. The results of the multivariate analysis demonstrated that the campaign had increased the rates of referrals for HIV testing through its significant influence on females, and individuals with academic degrees.
Conclusion: It can be concluded that the social marketing campaign was successful in persuading people to get tested for HIV.
Predictors of treatment failure pain among patients gunshot wounds
Authors: Horoshko Vasyl’ , Kuchyn Iurii
Published: October 2022

Background: In patients with gunshot wounds during hostilities in Ukraine, 70% have negative results of pain treatment, which leads to its chronicity. Identifying predictors of negative pain treatment outcomes in these patients could potentially improve their treatment outcomes.
Methods: The treatment of 1555 patients was analyzed. The results of the treatment were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS). Comparison of groups was carried out according to the Mann-Whitney test. The method of constructing univariate and multivariate logistic regression models was used to analyze the relationship between the risks of receiving a negative treatment result and factor characteristics. The quality of the models was assessed by the area under the ROC curve (AUC – Area under the ROC curve). To quantify the degree of influence of the factor characteristic, the odds ratio indicator was calculated.
Results: Predictors of negative results of pain treatment in patients with gunshot wounds are: 1) method of pain treatment (p<0.001), OR=0.10 (95% CI 0.08–0.13); 2) type of anesthesia: the risk of receiving negative treatment results is higher when using general anesthesia compared to regional (p<0.001), OR =0.59 (0.44-0.78) and regional with sedation (p<0.001), OR =0.44 (0.33-0.57) ; 3) the number of injured anatomical parts of the body (p<0.001), OR =0.82 (0.75-0.90); 4) the number of performed operations (p=0.036) OR =0.94 (0.90-0.99); 5) high intensity of pain according to VAS at admission (p<0.001), OR=1.60 (95% CI 1.39-1.84).
Conclusions: The analysis showed that the method of pain treatment, the use of general anesthesia compared to regional anesthesia (regardless of the use of sedation), the number of injured anatomical parts of the body, the number of surgical interventions performed on the patient and the high intensity of pain upon admission to the medical institution are associated with a greater risk of receiving negative treatment results pain in patients with gunshot wounds. Giving preference to the use of a combination of pain treatment methods with regional anesthesia methods, pain control at the stage of transportation to a medical institution can potentially improve the results of treatment of such patients.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov: Retrospectively registered on July 29, 2022, NCT05482061.
Sport and non-specific low back pain in athletes: a scoping review
Authors: Farra Fulvio Dal , Arippa Federico , Carta Giuseppe , Segreto Marco , Porcu Elisa , Monticone Marco
Published: October 2022

Background: The contribution of sport in non-specific low back pain (NS-LBP) remains unknown, due to a large heterogeneity in methods. The aims of this scoping review (ScR) were to systematically map and summarize findings concerning studies reporting data on NS-LBP among athletes.
Methods: This ScR was developed referring to the 2020 version of the JBIRM and the PRISMA-ScR. Five medical databases were searched up to November 2021. No limitations in terms of study design and language were applied. Results were presented numerically and thematically.
Results: A total of 4061 records were identified through the initial search; 114 articles met the inclusion criteria. Publications had increased over years since 1990. Most of the studies (17.5%) were conducted in the USA, even if most research (53.5%) was conducted in Europe. Analytic observational (42%) and cross-sectional studies (37%) were the most used designs, followed by case reports (12%) and systematic reviews (9 %). Boating (7%), football, soccer, volleyball, running and gymnastics (4.4% each) were the most investigated, although the majority of the studies considered sports in general (36.8%). The overall sample size median was 181, mean age 22+/-10.2; 68% of athletes were professional and 32% amateur. Most of the studies (38%) did not detail the frequency of training. Sport was reported as a risk factor in 67.5% of cases.
Conclusions: This is the first ScR to provide a comprehensive overview on this topic. Publications have shown an increasing interest over the last years. Currently research is more centered on the effects of sport practice in general. Research methods are extremely varied and often not adequate to produce strong levels of evidence. Higher-quality, standardized observational research focused on specific sports activities is needed to properly address clinical practice and further research.
COVID-19 monoclonal antibody treatment impact on symptoms and post-COVID conditions among high-risk patients at a Federally Qualified Health Center
Authors: Vawter Natalie L. , Godino Job G. , Lewis Sydney V. , Northrup Adam W. , Samaniego Jane , Poblete Jacqueline Y. , Guereca Alexander , Sharp Sydney P. , Matthews Eva , Crespo Noe C. , Ramers Christian B.
Published: October 2022

Background: Monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatment for COVID-19 is associated with improved clinical outcomes. However, there is limited information regarding the impact of treatment on symptoms and the prevalence of post-COVID Conditions (PCC). Understanding of the association between time to mAb infusion and the development of PCC is also limited.
Methods: This longitudinal study was conducted among patients with COVID-19 who received mAb infusions at a Federally Qualified Health Center in San Diego, CA. A series of telephone interviews were conducted at baseline and follow-up (14 days and 28+ days). A comprehensive symptom inventory was completed, and physical and mental health status were measures using PROMIS-29 and PHQ-2. Pearson’s Chi-squared tests and independent two-sample t-tests were performed to test for association between time to mAb infusion and outcomes at follow-up. A Poisson regression model was used to analyze whether time to mAb infusion predicts risk of developing PCC.
Results: Participants (N=411) were 53% female, ranged in age from 16 to 92 years (mean 50), and a majority (56%) were Latino/Hispanic. Cross-sectional findings revealed a high symptom burden at baseline (70% of patients had cough, 50% had fever, and 44% had headache). The prevalence of many symptoms decreased substantially by the final follow-up survey (29% of patients had cough, 3% had fever, and 28% had headache). Longitudinal findings indicated that 10 symptoms decreased in prevalence from baseline to final follow-up, 2 remained the same, and 14 increased. The severity of symptoms and most patient-reported physical and mental health measure scores decreased over time. The prevalence of PCC was 69% when PCC was defined as ≥1 symptom at final follow-up. Time to mAb infusion was not significantly associated with any outcome at follow-up. Time to infusion was not associated with PCC status at final follow-up in the crude or adjusted Poisson regression models.
Conclusions: The prevalence of PCC was high among this patient population following COVID-19 mAb treatment. Time to mAb infusion did not predict the development of PCC. Further research in these areas is essential to answer urgent clinical questions about effective treatments of COVID-19.
The Elderly’s Organs are Ready for Functional Rejuvenation
Authors: Kim Young Hwa , Lee Young-Kyoung , Park Soon Sang , Park So Hyun , Lee Young-Sam , Lee Wonhee , Jang Juhee , Seo Daeha , Kang Hee Young , Lim Su Bin , Yoon Gyesoon , Kim Hong Seok , Kim Jang-Hee , Park Tae Jun
Published: October 2022

The biological process of aging is thought to result in part from accumulation of senescent cells in organs. However, the present study identified that the numbers of full-senescent cells were not increased in normal elderly tissue. Instead, fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells that were neither proliferative nor fully senescent were prevalent in tissues of the elderly, which we termed “mid-old” cells. Upregulation of pro-inflammatory genes (IL1β, SAA1) and downregulation of anti-inflammatory genes (SLIT2, CXCL12) were detected in mid-old cells. In the stroma, SAA1 promotes development of the inflammatory microenvironment via upregulation of MMP9, which decreases the stability of epithelial cells present on the basement membrane, decreasing epithelial cell function. Strikingly, the microenvironmental change and the functional decline of mid-old cells could be rejuvenated by a young cell-originated protein, SLIT2. We provided the functional reverse of mid-old cells rather than elimination of senescent cells as a new concept about rejuvenation.
Mechanisms shaping the gypsum stromatolite-like structures in the Llamara Salar
Authors: Criado-Reyes Joaquín , Otálora Fermín , Canals Àngels , Verdugo-Escamilla Cristóbal , García-Ruiz Juan-Manuel
Published: October 2022

The explanation of the origin of microbialites and specifically stromatolitic structures is a problem of large relevance for decoding past sedimentary environments and deciphering the biogenicity of the oldest plausible remnants of life. We have investigated the morphogenesis of gypsum mushroom-shaped stromatolitic-like structures currently growing into shallow ponds (puquíos) in the Salar de Llamara (Atacama Desert, North Chile). The crystal size, aspect ratio, and orientation distributions of gypsum crystals within the structures have been quantified showing the existence of episodic nucleation and competitive growth of millimetric to centimetric selenite crystals into a radial, branched, loosely cemented aggregate. The morphogenetical process is explained by the existence of a vertical salinity stable gradient in the ponds. Due to the nonlinear dependency of gypsum solubility as a function of sodium chloride concentration, the density gradient produces undersaturated solutions dissolving gypsum crystals depth, narrowing the lower part of the structures, and producing their mushroom morphology. This novel mechanism is tested experimentally, showing the effective dissolution of gypsum crystals in stratified ponds, thus providing a purely abiotic mechanism for these stromatolitic-like structures.
Relationship among low baseline muscle mass, skeletal muscle quality and mortality in critically ill children
Authors: Xue Yang , Wang Tian-Tian , Zhang Lei , Zheng Shuang , Mu Yue-Ming , Jia Fei-Yong , Du Lin
Published: October 2022

Background: Adult studies have shown that low baseline muscle mass at ICU admission was associated with poor clinical outcomes. However, no information on the relationship between baseline muscle quality or mass and clinical outcomes in critically ill children was found. In this investigation, the aim was to ascertain the correlation among baseline muscle mass, muscle quality and clinical outcomes in severely ill children.
Methods: This is a retrospective observational study. A total of 3775 children were admitted to the PICU of the First Hospital of Jilin University in China during the research period from January 2019 to July 2021, of which 262 patients were eligible for inclusion. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) was performed before or within 72 hours of admission to the PICU to assess skeletal muscle mass and quality
Results:. BMI was greater in the normal SMI group than in the low SMI group (P=0.004), the length of PICU stay (P=0.02) was longer in the low SMI group than in the normal SMI group, and the in-PICU mortality rate (P=0.025) in the normal SMI group was superior tothat in the low SMI group. Children with low SMD had a higher in-PICU mortality rate, were younger and weighed less. Mortality was substantially greater in patients with lower SMD and prolonged hospital stay (log-rank, P=0.007). SMD was an independent predictor for length of PICU stay and in-PICU mortality.
Conclusions: Low baseline skeletal muscle quality in severely ill children is closely tied with a higher in-PICU mortality rate and longer length of PICU stay, and is an independent risk factor for unfavorable clinical outcomes. However, muscle mass did not show a similar strong association. Therefore, baseline muscle quality in severely ill children need more attention to avoid poor prognosis.
Trial registration: ChiCTR1800020196 (19/12/2018).
Statistics of simultaneous macroscopic detection of electrons at both slits of a double-slit experiment
Authors: Ramakrishna Satish
Published: October 2022

In the standard double-slit experiment, the interaction between the electron and a detector at either of the slits is supposed to be local. However, one never notices a situation where the electron is detected at both slits simultaneously in the frame of the observer. This is usually explained by the statement that there is only one electron that is being located and it obviously cannot actually be located in two places at the same time in the observer's frame of reference. However, this is a global constraint, which is hard to understand when the interaction between the electron and a measurement device at a particular slit is completely local - how would the measuring device realize that there was only one electron that was to be detected? It would be useful to deduce this from purely local interactions at each slit, even with detectors at each slit, without having to adduce assumptions about long-range correlations between (potentially) space-like separated events. In this paper, we start with a Hamiltonian that was studied in a previous paper on the measurement problem, with a local interaction between the electron and a detector - here we assume that there is a detector at each slit. We study this problem numerically and also make a theoretical argument that the detection problem is exactly the same as that of the problem of equilibration of a macroscopic number of coupled harmonic oscillators. At each detector, as the measurement happens, the amplitude for each of the states of the measuring apparata relaxes to an equilibrium configuration akin to the equilibration of a thermodynamic system. The problem of the detection of the electron at each slit is then mapped to the motion of a random walker in a line with reflecting barriers at both ends, where the ends are separated by a macroscopic number of steps. This connection to a well-studied mathematical problem has a well-understood consequence - two (or a finite number of) random walkers in this space will be expected to be separated by a macroscopic number of steps. Hence, only one of the detectors will see a macroscopic number of its detection degrees of freedom affected - ergo, only one of the detectors, selected completely at random, will "see" the electron. For a large, macroscopic, though finite-sized measurement device, there will be a vanishingly small chance of detecting the electron simultaneously at both slits. Indeed, in the limit of an infinitely massive detector, we will never detect the electron at two places at the same time. This problem also illustrates further that the systematic application of Schrödinger's equation along with a local interaction Hamiltonian that effectively represents the measurement process helps solve some curious issues in the quantum measurement problem.
Population genomics of fall armyworm in Brazil and Argentina revealed by Genotyping-by- Sequencing and implications for pest management
Authors: Ishizuka Tamylin K. , Cordeiro Erick M. G. , Alves-Pereira Alessandro , Batista Carlos E. A. , Murúa María G. , Pinheiro José B. , Sethi Amit , Nagoshi Rodney N. , Foresti Josemar , Zucchi Maria I.
Published: October 2022

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is a significant pest of many crops in the world and it is native to the Western Hemisphere, where the species has shown the ability to rapidly evolve resistance to transgenic plants and insecticides. Despite the importance of this species, there is a gap in the knowledge regarding the migration pattern of FAW in South America. Here, we examined the genetic diversity of FAW populations across a wide agricultural area of Brazil and three locations from Argentina using a Genotyping-by-Sequencing (GBS) approach. We also characterized samples by their host strain based on mitochondrial and Z-linked genetic markers. The GBS methodology enabled us to discover 3309 SNPs, including neutral and outlier markers. The 37 mitochondrial haplotypes did not reveal clusters based on geography, whereas GBS data revealed significant genetic structure between Brazil and Argentina, and also among the Argentinian ecoregions. Populations inside Brazil showed little genetic differentiation indicating high gene flow among locations and confirming that structure is related to the presence of corn and rice strains. Outlier analysis indicated 456 loci putatively under selection, including genes possibly related to resistance evolution. This study provides clarification of the population genetic structure of FAW in South America and highlights the importance of genomic research to understand the risks of spread of resistance genes.
The development and validation of a nomogram and calculator for survival among men treated with abiraterone acetate and/or enzalutamide for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Kawahara Takashi , Saigusa Yusuke , Yoneyama Shuko , Kato Masashi , Kojima Ippei , Yamada Hiroshi , Kamihira Osamu , Tabata Kenichi , Tsumura Hideyasu , Iwamura Masatsugu , Makiyama Kazuhide , uemura Hiroji , Miyoshi Yasuhide
Published: October 2022

Background
With widespread medication choices for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is now available, on the other hand biomarker to predict the efficacy of each mCRPC treatment has not been established. This study developed prognostic nomogram and calculator to predict prognosis in mCRPC patients who received abiraterone acetate (ABI) and/or enzalutamide (ENZ).
Methods
A total of 568 mCRPC patients received ABI and/or ENZ from 2012 to 2017 were enrolled in this study. We developed prognostic nomogram based on the risk factors by Cox proportional hazards regression model. The nomogram was also assessed for discriminatory ability with the concordance index (C-index). We repeated 5-fold cross-validation 2000 times to estimate the C-index and reported the means of the estimated C-index for the training and validation sets. And we also developed nomogram calculator based on this nomogram.
Results
The median overall survival (OS) was 24.7 months. A multivariable analysis showed that the time to CRPC, pre-chemotherapy, baseline prostate-specific antigen (PSA), baseline alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and baseline lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were independent risk factors for the OS (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.521, 1.681, 1.439, 1.827, 12,123, p:0.001, 0.001, <0.001, 0.019, <0.001)). C-index was 0.72 in training cohort and 0.71 in validation cohort.
Conclusion
We developed nomograms and calculator to predict the OS for Japanese mCRPC patients who received ABI and/or ENZ. The advent of mCRPC prognosis prediction calculator will facilitate greater accessibility for clinical use.
Autosomal dominant STAT6 gain of function causes severe atopy associated with lymphoma
Authors: Minskaia* Ekaterina , Maimaris* Jesmeen , Jenkins Persephone , Albuquerque Adriana S. , Grace Richard , Moreira Fernando , Grimbacher Bodo , Morris Emma C. , Burns Siobhan O.
Published: October 2022

The transcription factor STAT6 (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 6) is a key regulator of Th2 (T-helper 2) mediated allergic inflammation via the IL-4 (interleukin-4) JAK (Janus kinase)/STAT signalling pathway. We identified a novel heterozygous germline mutation STAT6 c.1255G > C, p.D419H leading to overactivity of IL-4 JAK/STAT signalling pathway, in a kindred affected by early-onset atopic dermatitis, food allergy, eosinophilic asthma, anaphylaxis and follicular lymphoma. STAT6 D419H expression and functional activity were compared with wild type STAT6 in transduced HEK293T cells and to healthy control primary skin fibroblasts and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). We observed consistently higher STAT6 levels at baseline and higher STAT6 and phosphorylated STAT6 following IL-4 stimulation in D419H cell lines and primary cells compared to wild type controls. The pSTAT6/STAT6 ratios were unchanged between D419H and control cells suggesting that elevated pSTAT6 levels resulted from higher total basal STAT6 expression. The selective JAK1/JAK2 inhibitor ruxolitinib reduced pSTAT6 levels in D419H HEK293T cells and patient PBMC. Nuclear staining demonstrated increased STAT6 in patient fibroblasts at baseline and both STAT6 and pSTAT6 after IL-4 stimulation. We also observed higher transcriptional upregulation of downstream genes (XBP1 and EPAS1) in patient PBMC. Our study confirms STAT6 gain of function (GOF) as a novel monogenetic cause of early onset atopic disease. The clinical association of lymphoma in our kindred, along with previous data linking somatic STAT6 D419H mutations to follicular lymphoma suggest that patients with STAT6 GOF disease may be at higher risk of lymphomagenesis.
Synergistic effect of sulfonation followed by precipitation of amorphous calcium phosphate on the bone-bonding strength of carbon-fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone
Authors: Takaoka Yusuke , Fujibayashi Shunsuke , Yabutsuka Takeshi , Yamane Yuya , Ishizaki Chihiro , Goto Koji , Otsuki Bungo , Kawai Toshiyuki , Shimizu Takayoshi , Okuzu Yaichiro , Masamoto Kazutaka , Shimizu Yu , Hayashi Makoto , Ikeda Norimasa , Matsuda Shuichi
Published: October 2022

Sulfonation and applications of amorphous calcium phosphate are known to make polyetheretherketone (PEEK) bioactive. Sulfonation followed by precipitation of amorphous calcium phosphate (AN-treatment) may provide PEEK with further bone-bonding strength. Herein, we prepared a carbon-fiber-reinforced PEEK (CPEEK) with similar tensile strength to cortical bone and a CPEEK subjected to AN-treatment (CPEEK-AN). The effect of AN-treatment on the bone-bonding strength generated at the interface between the rabbit's tibia and a base material was investigated using a detaching test at two time-points (4 and 8 weeks). At 4 weeks, the strength of CPEEK-AN was significantly higher than that of CPEEK due to the direct bonding between the interfaces. Between 4 and 8 weeks, the different bone forming processes showed that, with CPEEK-AN, bone consolidation was achieved, thus improving bone-bonding strength. In contrast, with CPEEK, a new bone was absorbed mainly on the interface, leading to poor strength. These observations were supported by an in vitro study, which showed that pre-osteoblast on CPEEK-AN caused earlier maturation and mineralization of the extracellular matrix than on CPEEK. Consequently, AN-treatment, comprising a combination of two efficient treatments, generated a synergetic effect on the bonding strength of CPEEK.
Effects of Corn oligopeptide on Dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy in Sprague-Dawley rats
Authors: Wang Yunfeng , Yan Jiuming , Shi Lei , Zhou Zhengming , Guo Jiankui , Wei Yaoyao , Hu Wen
Published: October 2022

Corn oligopeptide (COP) derived from corn gluten meal (CGM) was proved to possess plenty of biological properties. However, there is no scientific evidence to support that COP can ameliorate muscle atrophy. To find a new therapeutic nutritional substrate of muscle atrophy, we investigated the anti-myopathy effects of COP in DEX-inducted rat muscle atrophy model and tried to explore the underlying mechanisms. Co-administration of COP (2.0g/kg.bw) with DEX for 5 weeks reversed DEX-induced reduction in gastrocnemius (Gas) and plantaris (Pla) muscles weight, grip strength, exercise tolerance and myofiber cross sectional area (CSA) of soleus (Sol), up-regulated the protein levels of Phospho-Akt and mTOR that are closely relate to protein synthesis, and down-regulated the expression of FoxO3a, NF-κBp65, Atrogin-1, MuRF-1, LC3 and ULK1 that are the key components of Ubiquitin–proteasome system and Autophagy that activate proteolysis. In addition, according to muscles weight, grip strength, exercise tolerance changing over experiment time, we found the three indexes were all improved at 3rd week. Therefore, we conclude that the optimal duration for COP to improve DEX-induced muscle atrophy might be 3 weeks, and mechanistically, COP activates protein synthesis through Akt/mTOR pathway, while inhibits proteolysis by inactivating the expression of Ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) and Autophagy.
Beneficial Effects of Anti-Apolipoprotein A-2 on an Animal Model for Coronary Arteritis in Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Ito Fuyu , Oharaseki Toshiaki , Tsukui Daisuke , Kimura Yoshitaka , Yanagida Tamiko , Kishi Fukuko , Yamakawa Yoshio , Kameoka Yosuke , Suzuki Shoichi , Uno Kazuko , Suzuki Osamu , Miura Noriko N , Ohno Naohito , Takahashi Kei , Kono Hajime , Suzuki Kazuo
Published: October 2022

Background
Kawasaki disease (KD) is usually treated with high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) as severe infectious and other diseases. Due to issues that are associated with immunoglobulin preparation, such as the risk of possible contamination by infectious agents and limited blood banking resources, recombinant immunoglobulins are required.
Melatonin regulates the mitogen-activated protein kinase ( MAPK ) pathway via the circMPP5-miR-211-MAPK3 axis to induce secondary hair follicle differentiation and development in newborn Cashmere goat kids
Authors: Diao Xiaogao , Yao Lingyun , Duan Tao , Qin Jiaxin , He Liwen , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2022

Background
The quality and yield of Cashmere fibre are closely related to the differentiation and development of secondary hair follicles in the skin of Cashmere goats. The higher the density of secondary hair follicles, the higher the quality and yield of Cashmere from the fleece. Development of secondary hair follicles commences in the embryonic stage of life and is completed six months after birth. Preliminary experimental results from our laboratory showed that melatonin (MT) treatment of goat kids after their birth could increase the density of secondary hair follicles and, thus, improve the subsequent yield and quality of Cashmere. These changes in the secondary hair follicles resulted from increases in levels of antioxidant and expression of anti-apoptotic protein, and from a reduction in apoptosis. The present study was conducted to explore the molecular mechanism of MT-induced secondary hair follicle differentiation and development by using whole-genome analysis.
Results
MT had no adverse effect on the growth performance of Cashmere kids but significantly improved the character of the secondary hair follicles and the quality of Cashmere, and this dominant effect continued to the second year. Melatonin promotes the proliferation of secondary hair follicle cells at an early age. Secondary hair follicles in the MT group formation was earlier than in the control group in the second year. The genome-wide data results involved KEGG analysis of 1044 DEmRNAs, 91 DElncRNAs, 1054 DEcircRNAs, and 61 DEmiRNAs which revealed that the MAPK signaling pathway is involved in the development of secondary hair follicles, with key genes (FGF2, FGF21, FGFR3, MAPK3 (ERK1)) being up-regulated and expressed. We also found that the circMPP5 could combine with miR-211 and regulate the expression of MAPK3.
Conclusions
We conclude that MT achieves its effects by regulating the MAPK pathway through the circMPP5-miR-211-MAPK3 axis to induce the differentiation and proliferation of secondary hair follicle cells. In addition there is up-regulation of expression of the anti-apoptotic protein causing reduced apoptosis of hair follicle cells. Collectively, these events increase the numbers of secondary hair follicles, thus improving the production of Cashmere from these goats.
Design -assisted spectrofluorometric method utilizing carbon quantum dots for the quantitation of some calcium channel blockers
Authors: roshdy aya , Salam Randa Abdel , Hadad Ghada , Belal Fathallah , Elmansi Heba
Published: October 2022

Based on their reaction with highly fluorescent carbon quantum dots (CQDts), a precise and reliable spectrofluorometric approach was developed for the determination of three calcium channel blockers. The studied drugs are: lercanidipine, nimodipine and nifedipine. (CQDts) were produced using a one-step hydrothermal method with ascorbic acid as the carbon source. The produced CQDts were capped by alcohol to create yellow emitters displaying a high fluorescence emission at 524 nm when excited at 325 nm. The fluorescence intensity of CQDts was noticeably quenched by each of the three calcium channel blockers. The relation between their concentrations and fluorescence quenching is linear over the concentration range of 0.5–20 µg/mL for each of the three drugs. Full factorial design was used to optimize the effect of variable factors. Therefore, under optimum experimental design conditions, the detection limits for lercanidipine, nimodipine, and nifedipine were 0.11, 0.10, and 0.12 µg/mL, respectively. The LOQ were 0.33, 0.30 and 0.37 µg/mL respectively. The quenching of fluorescent CQDts occurred through inner filter effect (IFE) for nimodipine, while it was mixed with dynamic quenching for lercanidipine and nifedipine. The proposed method was effectively used to determine the cited drugs in their pharmaceutical products and had an acceptable level of precision. The selectivity of the CQDts system towards the studied drugs was examined indicating no interference from interfering species.
Computational Study of the Mechanical Behavior of the Astrocyte Network and Axonal Compartments in the Mouse Optic Nerve Head
Authors: Ling Yik Tung Tracy , Korneva Arina , Quigley Harry , Nguyen Thao
Published: October 2022

Glaucoma is a blinding disease characterized by the degeneration of the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons at the optic nerve head (ONH). A major risk factor for glaucoma is the intraocular pressure (IOP). However, it is currently impossible to measure the IOP-induced mechanical responses in the axons of the ONH. The objective of this study was to develop a computational model to estimate the IOP-induced strains and stresses in the axonal compartments in the mouse astrocytic lamina (AL) of the ONH, and to investigate the effect of the structural features on the mechanical behavior.
We developed experimentally-informed finite element (FE) models of six mouse AL to investigate the effect of structure on the stress and strain response of the astrocyte network and axonal compartments to pressure elevation. The specimen-specific geometries of the FE models were reconstructed from confocal fluorescent images of cryosections of the mouse AL acquired in a previous study that measured the structural features of the astrocytic processes and axonal compartments. The displacement fields obtained from digital volume correlation in prior inflation tests of the mouse AL were used to determine the in-plane boundary conditions of the FE models. We applied a machine learning algorithm, Gaussian process regression, to analyze the effects of the structural features on the strains and stresses simulated for each axonal compartment.
The axonal compartments experienced, on average, 5 times higher maximum principal strain but 1800 times lower maximum principal stress compared to that experienced by the astrocyte processes. The mechanical responses in the axonal compartments were most sensitive to variations in the area and orientation of the axonal compartments. Larger axonal compartments that were more vertically aligned, closer to the AL center, and with lower local actin area fraction had higher strains. Understanding the factors affecting the deformation and stress state in the axonal compartments will provide insights into mechanisms of glaucomatous axonal damage.
Ho:YAG laser at 2097 nm pumped by a narrow linewidth tunable 1.91 μm laser
Authors: Tian Juntao , Zhao Lili , Li Zhiyong , Bian Jintian , Ye Qing , Wang Hai , Tan Rongqing
Published: October 2022

This study presents a high efficiency Ho:YAG laser based on a narrow linewidth tunable 1.91 µm laser. A tunable Tm:YLF laser is the pump source and the wavelength continuous tunability ranges from 1906.04 to 1908.83 nm, corresponding to a linewidth of less than 0.41 nm. The tunable Tm:YLF laser is achieved by changing the operating temperature of the VBG. The output power of the Ho:YAG laser is between 21.04–23.53 W and the slope efficiency is between 64.08% − 68.26% at the pump power of 39.8 W. The output power and slope efficiency corresponding to the pump wavelength of 1907.36 nm are 23.53 W and 68.26%, respectively. This study illustrates that fine-tuning the pump wavelength is an effective way to improve the slope efficiency and output power of the Ho:YAG laser at room temperature.
Transcriptomic and enzymatic analysis reveals the roles of glutamate dehydrogenase in Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Ge Fanglan , Sun Jingkun , Ren Yao , He Bing , Li Jiao , Yang Sen , Li Wei
Published: October 2022

Glutamate dehydrogenase (Gdh), catalyzing the reversible conversion between 2-oxoglutarate and glutamate, plays an important role in the connection of nitrogen and carbon metabolism. Yet little is known about these enzymes in the amino acid-manufacturing Corynebacterium glutamicum. In the present study, we firstly identified the enzymatic characteristics of two Gdhs (GdhA and GdhB). The results showed that both GdhA and GdhB prefers NADPH as a coenzyme and have higher affinity for 2-OG than glutamate. The growth characteristics of gdhAΔ mutant and gdhBΔ mutant, gdhABΔ mutant showed GdhA serves as the main conduit for ammonium assimilation, and GdhB is the main glutamate- metabolizing enzyme in C. glutamicum. The full-genome transcriptomic analysis was used to investigate physiological response of C. glutamicum to the glutamate as nitrogen source, and gdh deletion. The results showed that the nitrogen starvation response was elicited when glutamine served as the sole nitrogen source. gdhAΔBΔ double deletion trigger a partially deregulated nitrogen starvation response, in which genes involved in nitrogen assimilation showed obviously up-regulated in a certain extent. On the other hand, the genes of phosphotransferase system (PTS) and glycolysis pathway, most genes in pentose phosphate pathway were significantly up-regulated, indicating that gdh deficiency initiated the enhancement of the absorption and metabolism of carbon sources. we believed that our results in this study will give new insights on the molecular mechanism of Gdh activity cross-talks with carbon and nitrogen metabolism, also setting a new background for further flux redistribution applied research of biotechnological interest.
ALDOC- and ENO2- driven glucose metabolism sustains 3D tumor spheroids growth regardless of nutrient environmental conditions: a multi-omics analysis
Authors: De Vitis Claudia , Battaglia Anna Martina , Pallocca Matteo , Santamaria Gianluca , Mimmi Maria Chiara , Sacco Alessandro , De Nicola Francesca , Gaspari Marco , Salvati Valentina , Ascenzi Francesca , Bruschini Sara , Esposito Antonella , Ricci Giulia , Sperandio Eleonora , Prestagiacomo Licia Elvira , Cavaliere Rosy , Vecchione Andrea , Ricci Alberto , Sciacchitano Salvatore , Salerno Gerardo , French Deborah , Aversa Ilenia , Cereda Cristina , Fanciulli Maurizio , Chiaradonna Ferdinando , Cuda Giovanni , Costanzo Francesco , Ciliberto Gennaro , Mancini Rita , Biamonte Flavia
Published: October 2022

Background
Metastases are the major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. By the time cancer cells detach from their primary site to eventually spread to distant sites, they need to acquire the ability to survive in non-adherent conditions and to proliferate within a new microenvironment in spite of stressing conditions that may severely constrain the metastatic process. In this study, we gained insight into the molecular mechanisms allowing cancer cells to survive and proliferate in an anchorage-independent manner, regardless of both tumor-intrinsic variables and nutrient culture conditions.
Methods
3D spheroids derived from lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and breast cancer cells were cultured in either nutrient-rich or -restricted culture conditions. A multi-omics approach, including transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, was used to explore the molecular changes underlying the transition from 2D to 3D cultures. Small interfering RNA-mediated loss of function assays were used to validate the role of the identified differentially expressed genes and proteins in H460 and HCC827 LUAD as well as in MCF7 and T47D breast cancer cell lines.
Results
We found that the transition from 2D to 3D cultures of H460 and MCF7 cells is associated with significant changes in the expression of genes and proteins involved in metabolic reprogramming. In particular, we observed that 3D tumor spheroid growth implies the overexpression of ALDOC and ENO2 glycolytic enzymes concomitant with the enhanced consumption of glucose and fructose and the enhanced production of lactate. Transfection with siRNA against both ALDOC and ENO2 determined a significant reduction in lactate production and cell viability. Furthermore, both the number and size of spheroids produced by H460, HCC827, MCF7, and T47D cell lines were significantly reduced upon ALDOC and ENO2 knockdown.
Conclusions
Our results show that anchorage-independent survival and growth of cancer cells are supported by changes in genes and proteins that drive glucose metabolism towards an enhanced lactate production. Notably, this finding is valid regardless of the tumor type and nutrient environmental availability, thus suggesting the possible general involvement of this mechanism in cancer metastasis. The pan-cancer validation of this vulnerability could potentially help to slow or prevent cancer progression.
Sensor-based assessment of social isolation incommunity-dwelling older adults: A scopingreview
Authors: Khan Shehroz S. , Gu Tiancheng , Spinelli Lauren , Wang Rosalie H.
Published: October 2022

Social isolation (SI) is a state of low social interaction with peers associated with various adverse healthconsequences in older adults living in the community. SI is most often assessed through retrospective self-reports, which can be prone to recall or self-report biases and influenced by stigma. Ambient and wearable sensors have been explored to objectively assess SI based on interactions of a person within the environment and physiological data. However, because this field is in its infancy, there is a lack of clarity regarding the application of sensors and their data in assessing SI and the methods to develop these assessments. To understand the current state of research in sensor-based assessment of SI in older adults living in the community and to make recommendations for the field moving forward, we conducted a scoping review. The aims of the scoping review were to 1. Map the types of sensors (and their associated data) that have been used for objective SI assessment, 2. Identify the methodological approaches used to develop the SI assessment, and 3. Synthesize current understandings and knowledge gaps to be addressed in future research. Using an established scoping review methodology, we identified eight relevant articles. Data from motion sensors and actigraph were commonly applied and compared and correlated with self-report measures in developing objective SI assessments. Variability exists in defining SI, feature extraction and the use of sensors and self-report assessments. Inconsistent definitions and use of various self-report scales for measuring SI create barriers to studying the concept and extracting features to build predictive models. Recommendations include establishing a consistent definition of SI for sensor-based assessment research and development and consider capturing its complexity through innovative domain-specific features.
Case Report on Recurrent Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans
Authors: Brian Ssenkumba , Mitala Yekosani , Birungi Abraham , Ekuk Eddymond , Kaggwa Sadic
Published: October 2022

Background: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a potentially malignant soft tissue tumor that if not accurately diagnosed and managed, has a high recurrence rate.
Case presentation: A 35 years old man presented with 5 years history of slowly enlarging, initially painless anterior abdominal wall mass. He had a similar mass at the same location 10 years ago that was excised and diagnosed as a benign fibrous neoplasm. CT scan revealed a soft tissue density well-circumscribed mass that blended with the surrounding soft tissues. Excision was done and histology revealed dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans with atrophy of the overlying skin, positive margins, and areas of fibrosarcomatous change. The tumor was positive for Vimentin and negative for erythroblastosis transcription variant related gene (ERG) and S100. A repeat excision was advised until clear margins were achieved.
Conclusion: Tumor size and herringbone growth pattern do not necessarily imply fibrosarcomatous transformation. Also, accurate diagnosis is key in preventing the recurrence of DFSP. Pathologists need to be aware of such rare cancers since they can easily be missed.