bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
USP14 promotes colorectal cancer progression by targeting JNK for stabilization
Authors: Li Shangze , Du Xuehua , Ke Shao-bo , Liang Xin-Yi , Gao Jie , Xie Xiao-Xiao , Qi Lin-Zhi , Liu Xue-Yi , Xu Guo-Yuan , Zhang Xiao-Dong , Du Run-Lei
Published: July 2022

MAPK/JNK signaling is pivotal in carcinogenesis. However, ubiquitin-mediated homeostasis of JNK remains to be verified. Here, with results from RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and luciferase reporter pathway identification, we show that USP14 orchestrates MAPK/JNK signaling and identify USP14 as a deubiquitinase that interacts and stabilizes JNK. USP14 is elevated in colorectal cancer patients and is positively associated with JNK protein and downstream gene expression. USP14 ablation clearly inhibits colorectal tumorigenesis by targeting the MAPK/JNK signaling cascade in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, USP14 expression is induced by TNF-α, forming a feedback loop with JNK and leading to tumor amplification. Our study suggests that elevated expression of USP14 promotes MAPK/JNK signaling by stabilizing JNK, which in turn augments colorectal carcinogenesis, indicating a potential therapeutic target for colorectal cancer patients with increased USP14 expression.
Graphene oxide promotes V-Cu-Ce-ZSM-5 to catalyze SO2 and NO at low-temperature: Performance and Mechanism
Authors: WANG Lemeng , ZHAO Zhikai , WANG Wen , XING Gaoshan , ZENG Fang , qi liqiang
Published: July 2022

A catalyst (V-Cu-Ce-ZSM-5) was explored to simultaneously remove the SO2 and NOx from flue gas by use of the ZSM-5 molecular sieve as the carrier, V and Cu as the active components, and Ce as the additive in low temperature of 150℃. The performance of V-Cu-Ce-ZSM-5 was evaluated for the oxidation of NO and SO2 before and after the addition of graphene oxide (GO). The results showed that V-Cu-Ce-ZSM-5@GO0.5 had the best performance at a reaction temperature of 150°C, and the oxidation efficiency of SO2 and NO were 94.60% and 83.64%, respectively. The multiple structural characterizations (BET, SEM, XRD, and XPS) revealed that the loading of V and Cu with the additive Ce expanded the specific surface area and pore volume of ZSM-5, provided more adsorption sites for SO2 and NO, and had good desulfurization and denitration activity. The addition of GO further improved the dispersibility of active components and auxiliaries, increased the number of active sites in the reaction process, and significantly improved catalytic activity.
One step to stabilize calcium sodium phosphate crystals acting as photocatalysts embedded in a glass matrix
Authors: Kaewdee Pongpen , Tandorn Sujitra , Limpichaipanit Apichart , Chokethawai Komsanti , Suwanboon Sumetha , Chandet Nopakarn , Kanpiengjai Apinun , Rujijanagul Gobwute , Randorn Chamnan
Published: July 2022

Unstable calcium sodium phosphate (CaNaPO4) in aqueous solution can be stabilized and shows photocatalytic activity in a glass matrix. This research presents one-step melt quenching to prepare stable CaNaPO4 crystals in a glass material. The CaNaPO4 glass ceramic was produced with stoichiometric amounts of SiO2, B2O3, P2O5, CaO, Na2O and TiO2 at 1,200 °C for 4 h. The CaNaPO4 glass ceramic samples were confirmed by XRD, SEM, and TEM techniques. The photocatalytic activity of the CaNaPO4 glass ceramic was investigated by monitoring methyl orange degradation with the addition of H2O2. Notably, the CaNaPO4 glass ceramic demonstrates the high-efficiency photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) under UV irradiation. The CaNaPO4 glass ceramic can be reused several times. After 8 cycles, the catalyst is still stable and effective in decomposing 100% of methyl orange within 5 h/cycle. In addition, the solid phase photocatalytic activity of the CaNaPO4 glass ceramic was examined by bleaching adsorbed MB under UV light within 25 h. It can also inhibit the growth of E. coli bacteria after UV irradiation for 20 minutes. Therefore, the CaNaPO4 glass ceramic might be an alternative photocatalytic material for wastewater treatment.
Anomaly detection by using a combination of generative adversarial networks and convolutional autoencoders
Authors: Luo Xukang , Jiang Ying , Wang EnQiang , Men Xinlei
Published: July 2022

With the development of full digitalization, the amount of time-series data generated by sensors is ever increasing; thus, time-series outlier detection has become crucial. Moreover, in practice, discovering and flagging anomalies is very time-consuming and expensive. To solve this problem, unsupervised anomaly detection methods have often been used in the past, wherein the model is trained with normal data to learn its behavioral patterns. Generative adversarial networks (GAN) can simulate complex and high-dimensional distributions of data and can be used to learn the behavioral patterns of normal data for unsupervised anomaly detection. However, due to the problem of convergence, GAN are difficult to train. Thus, USAD utilize an autoencoder (AE) to undertake the task of the generator and discriminator and enhance the stability during adversarial training by using the AE to alleviate the problem of non-convergence encountered in GAN. Therefore, in this study, we used the USAD’s generative adversarial training architecture combined with convolutional AEs to improve the model’s feature extraction capabilities. In addition, to reduce false-positive outcomes caused by the prominent sharp points in the reconstructed data, we used the exponential weighted moving average method to smooth the reconstruction error, thereby improving the anomaly detection accuracy of the model. Finally, we experimented with real-world time-series data (ECG and 2D gesture) and verified that our approach could improve the accuracy.
Topical Immunomodulators Improve Clinical Signs of Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis and Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Erdinest Nir , Noyman Dror Ben Ephraim , London Naomi , Morad Yair , Levinger Nadav , Landau David , Lavy Itay , Solomon Abraham , Naroo Shehzad
Published: July 2022

Objective: Topical immunomodulators cyclosporine A (CsA) and tacrolimus have been added in recent years to the armament to control severe chronic allergic ocular diseases such as atopic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC) and vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). This meta-analysis summarizes the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that utilized topical immunomodulators, to examine their effectiveness at decreasing clinical signs as assessed by clinicians in severe allergic eye disease.Methods: A systematic search identified thirteen studies and a total of 445 patients for inclusion, making this the largest meta-analysis published on the subject.Results: Thirteen RCTs were included. Eleven studies used Cyclosporine A as the treatment, and two used Tacrolimus. In total, 445 participants were included, 76.6% were male. The mean age of the participants was 14 years. All studies reported clinical signs as evaluated by an examining clinician. Signs were usually assessed by anatomical region, with the most common regions being the conjunctiva and the cornea, and the most common signs assessed were hyperemia and papillae. Three studies accounted for over 50% of the meta-analysis's weight. Effect size (d) ranged from -2.37 to -0.03, negative values favoring immunomodulators. Fixed Effect Meta-Analysis returned an SMD of -0.81 (95% CI: [-0.98, -0.65]). However, there was significant heterogeneity (I2=61%, Qw=30.76) in the outcome measure (P=0.0021); therefore, a random-effect meta-analysis was also completed where the pooled SMD was -0.98 (95% CI: [-1.26, -0.69], τ2 = 0.16).Conclusions: This study affirms that immunomodulators effectively treat clinical signs, including blepharitis, conjunctival hyperemia, edema, papillae, and corneal damage in severe ocular allergic disease.
Barriers to Self-Care Management among Type 2 diabetes Patients in Tigray, Ethiopia: A qualitative Study
Authors: Berhe Kalayou K. , Mselle Lilian T. , Gebru Prof. Haftu B.
Published: July 2022

Background
A diabetic patient is anticipated to follow recommended self-care management to manage diabetes properly. Adherence to self-care management is effective in the management of diabetic complications. The aim was to explore barriers to self-management among type 2 diabetes patients at Tigray, Ethiopia, 2020.
Method
The descriptive qualitative design was used to conduct a study between April and September 2020. Participants were selected purposively to recruit 22 patients with type 2 diabetes, 10 caretakers and health care providers. Data were analyzed thematically and Atlas ti software was used during analysis.
Results
The reported barriers were Lacking education to cope with the disease, being emotionally disturbed, Failing to adopt new life style, lacking social support, Perceived behavioral control and inadequacy of health care system.
Conclusion
Type 2 diabetes patients were unable to adhered self-care management due to educational, psychological, social, behavioral and health care system related barriers.
Parallel functional annotation of cancer-associated missense mutations in histone methyltransferases
Authors: Cosgrove Michael , Canning Ashley , Viggiano Susan , Fernandez-Zapico Martin
Published: July 2022

Using exome sequencing for biomarker discovery and precision medicine requires connecting nucleotide-level variation with functional changes in encoded proteins. However, for functionally annotating the thousands of cancer-associated missense mutations, or variants of uncertain significance (VUS), purifying variant proteins for biochemical and functional analysis is cost-prohibitive and inefficient. We describe parallel functional annotation (PFA) of large numbers of VUS using small cultures and crude extracts in 96-well plates. Using members of a histone methyltransferase family, we demonstrate high-throughput structural and functional annotation of cancer-associated mutations. By combining functional annotation of paralogs, we discovered two phylogenetic and clustering parameters that improve the accuracy of sequence-based functional predictions to over 90%. Our results demonstrate the value of PFA for defining oncogenic/tumor suppressor functions of histone methyltransferases as well as enhancing the accuracy of sequence-based algorithms in predicting the effects of cancer-associated mutations.
Influence of the Osteogenomic Profile in Response to Alendronate Therapy in Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Arana Ismael Nuño , Vega Alejandra Villagómez , Nava Jorge Gámez , González Francisco Ruiz , Romero Misael Pérez , Rangel Walter Trujillo
Published: July 2022

Alendronate are used as the first line of pharmacological treatment for osteoporosis; however, some of them do not respond adequately to therapy with alendronate. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of combinations of potential risk alleles (genetic profiles) associated with the response to antiosteoporotic treatment in a cohort consisting of 82 postmenopausal women with primary osteoporosis receiving alendronate (70 mg administered orally per week) for one year. Bone mineral density (BMD; g/cm2) of the femoral neck and lumbar spine was measured. According to BMD change patients were divided in two groups: responders and non-responders to alendronate therapy. Polymorphic variants in CYP19, ER, IL-6, PTHR1, TGFβ, OPG and RANKL genes were determined and profiles generating from the combination of risk alleles. Results: 56 subjects were responders to alendronate and 26 subjects were non-responders. The carriers of A-C-T-C profile (constructed from rs700518, rs1800795, rs2073618, and rs3102735) were predisposed to response to alendronate treatment (P= 0.001). Our findings highlight the importance of identified profiles for pharmacogenetics of alendronate therapy in osteoporosis.
Image Scene Layout Extraction Based on Random Walks Method Using Predefined Weighting Map
Authors: Khan Altaf , Chefranov Alexander , Demirel Hasan
Published: July 2022

3D layout extraction of a single image is an important aspect of artificial intelligence (AI) applications, e.g., 3D TV, object localization, and scene understanding. The pixel-level 3D layout of a single image can be extracted by using the prior information of image scene geometry. State-of-the-art Lou’s method introduces predefined templates corresponding to 3D scene geometry which use as prior information to extract the pixel-level 3D layout from a single image. 3D scene geometries called as Stages, are rough models of indoor and outdoor scenes. We introduce a new method of 3D layout extraction by using template-based segmentation as prior information and further template-based-segmentation is used as weighting map in random walk method to enhance the edges between two regions. Next, for each sub-region, multiple seeds are initialized by random walk method and their output segments are combined to generate 3D layout of a single image. Proposed algorithm is evaluated on the indoor and outdoor images dataset. The experimental results show that the proposed method has improved the accuracy by 5.31% versus the state-of-the-art methods. Additionally, this algorithm is extended for road scene extraction where instead of using template-based segmentation, the magnitude value of Gaussian derivative uses as weighting map. It is evaluated on KITTI road scene dataset and quantitatively compared to previous efforts on a publically available, provides superior results.
Modeling the effect of a temperature shock on the rotational motion of a small spacecraft, considering the possible loss of large elastic elements stability
Authors: Sedelnikov Andry , Serdakova Valeria , Orlov Denis , Nikolaeva Alexandra , Evtushenko Maxim
Published: July 2022

The paper investigates the issues of a small spacecraft large elastic elements temperature shock influence within the framework of a two-dimensional model of thermal conductivity, taking into account the possible loss of stability during the temperature shock. The loss of stability causes additional movements of large elastic elements sections. The thermoelasticity problem is solved, in which the parameters of the relative motion of large elastic elements, including the loss of stability, are estimated. Additional micro-accelerations resulting from the loss of stability are estimated. Recommendations are given to avoid the loss of stability during the temperature shock.
Weighted Entropic Associative Memory: A case study on Phonetic Representation and Learning
Authors: Pineda Luis A. , Morales Rafael
Published: July 2022

The Entropic Associative Memory (EAM) holds declarative but distributed representations of remembered objects. These are characterized as functions from features to discrete values in an abstract amodal space. Memory objects are registered or remembered through a declarative operation; memory recognition is defined as a logical test and cues of objects not contained in the memory are rejected directly without search; and memory retrieval is a constructive operation. In its original formulation, the content of basic memory units or cells was either on or off, hence all stored objects had the same weight or strength. In the present weighted version (W-EAM) we introduce a basic learning mechanism to the effect that the values of the cells used in the representation of an object are reinforced by the memory register operation. As memory cells are shared by different representations, the corresponding associations are reinforced too. The memory system supports a second form of learning: the distributed representation generalizes and renders a large set of potential or latent units that can used for recognizing novel inputs, which can in turn be used for improving the performance of both the deep neural networks used for modelling perception and action, and of the memory operations. This process can be performed recurrently in open-ended fashion and can be used in long term learning. An experiment in the phonetic domain using the Mexican Spanish DIMEx100 Corpus was carried out. This corpus was collected in a controlled noise-free environment, and was transcribed manually by human trained phoneticians, but consists of a relatively small number of utterances. DIMEx100 was used to produced the initial state of the perceptual and motor modules, and for testing the performance of the memory system at such state. Then the incremental learning cycle was modelled using the Spanish CIEMPIESS Corpus, consisting of a very large number of noisy untagged speech utterances collected from radio and TV. The results support the viability of the Weighted Entropic Associative Memory for modelling cognitive processes, such as phonetic representation and learning, for the construction of applications, such as speech recognition and synthesis, and as a computational model of natural memory.
Pediatric Adjusted Shock Index as a Predictor of Mortality by Sex Disparity in Pediatric Trauma: A Pan-Asian Trauma Outcome Study (PATOS)
Authors: Jung Eujene , Ro Young Sun , Ryu Hyun Ho , Shin Sang Do
Published: July 2022

Background
There are no reports of sex-specific, pediatric age-adjusted shock index (PASI) for pediatric trauma patients in previous studies. We aimed to determine the association between PASI and in-hospital mortality of pediatric trauma patients and whether this association differs depending on sex.
Methods
This is a prospective, multinational, and multicenter cohort study using the Pan-Asian Trauma Outcome Study (PATOS) registry in the Asia-Pacific region, conducted in pediatric patients who visited the participating hospitals. The main exposure of our study was abnormal (elevated) PASI measured in an emergency department (ED). The main outcome was in-hospital mortality. We performed a multivariable logistic regression analysis to estimate the association between abnormal PASI and study outcomes after adjusting for potential confounders. An interaction analysis between PASI and sex was also conducted.
Results
Of 6,280 pediatric trauma patients, 10.9% (686/6,280) of the patients had abnormal PASI. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, abnormal PASI was significantly associated with increased in-hospital mortality (aOR, 1.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.16—2.53). Abnormal PASI had interaction effects with sex for in-hospital mortality (aOR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.18—2.92 and aOR, 1.38; 95% CI, 0.64—2.95 for male and female, respectively) (p < 0.01).
Conclusions
Abnormal PASI is associated with increased in-hospital mortality in pediatric trauma patients. The prediction power of PASI for in-hospital mortality was maintained only in male patients. Further studies with sex- and age-specific shock index and age-specific are warranted.
The Design and Implementation of Campus informatization in Chinese Universities: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Nong Liqiao , Liu Geping , Tang Changhui , Chen Ying
Published: July 2022

With the deepening of educational informatization and the integration of information technology into education, a new form of teaching and management has been emerged. Digital campus is one of the educational reform results, and it shall be established to support the development of intelligent education. This paper aims to explore an overall situation of implementing progress of campus informatization in Chinese universities, and design a conceptual framework of the digital campus, then find out the practical results of Chinese universities which applied the conceptual framework. The advanced technology applied in Chinese campus informatization was analyzed, the main characteristics of the digital campus were put forwarded, and a conceptual framework of digital campus in universities was designed. For this article, we've chosen the one-stop service platform of southwest university as a case study, the practical results of the digital campus include IC card services, integration services, one-stop services, wireless networks, and the implementation of the data center.
Highly Soluble Arylene Diimide Derivatives as Anolyte Materials with Two-Electron Storage for Ultrastable Neutral Aqueous Organic Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Liu Xu , Zhang Xuri , Bao Chaoyu , Wang Zengrong , Li Guoping , Yan Ni , Li Mingjia , He Gang
Published: July 2022

Two-electron neutral aqueous organic redox flow batteries (AORFBs) hold more promising applications in the power grid than one-electron batteries because of their higher capacity. However, their development is strongly limited by the structural instability of the highly reduced species. By combining the extended π-conjugation structure of the anolytes and the enhanced aromaticity of the highly reduced species, we reported a series of highly water-soluble and inexpensive arylene diimide derivatives (NDI, PDI, TPDI) as novel two-electron storage anolyte materials for ultrastable AORFBs. Matched with (ferrocenylmethyl)trimethylammonium chloride (FcNCl) as catholyte, arylene diimide derivative-based AORFBs showed the highest stability in two-electron AORFBs to date. The NDI/FcNCl-based AORFB delivered 98.4% capacity retention at 40 mA cm− 2 for 350 cycles, and TPDI/FcNCl-based AORFB showed remarkable stability (1600 cycles) with 95.5% capacity retention at 20 mA cm− 2. This finding lays the theoretical foundation and offers a reference for improving the stability of two-electron AORFBs.
Moral Foundations, Values, and Reasoning in Extraordinary Altruists
Authors: Amormino Paige , Ploe Montana , Marsh Abigail
Published: July 2022

Donating a kidney to a stranger is a rare act of extraordinary altruism that appears to reflect a moral commitment to helping others. Yet little is known about patterns of moral cognition associated with extraordinary altruism. In this preregistered study, we compared the moral foundations, values, and patterns of utilitarian moral reasoning in altruistic kidney donors (n=61) and demographically matched controls (n=58). Altruists expressed more concern only about the moral foundation of harm, but no other moral foundations. Consistent with this, altruists endorsed utilitarian concerns related to impartial beneficence, but not instrumental harm. Contrary to our predictions, we did not find group differences between altruists and controls in global values. Extraordinary altruism generally reflected opposite patterns of moral cognition as those seen in individuals with psychopathy, a personality construct characterized by callousness and insensitivity to harm and suffering. Results link real-world, costly, impartial altruism primarily to moral cognitions related to alleviating harm and suffering in others rather than to global values, fairness concerns, or strict utilitarian reasoning.
Enhancement of pigment and proximate values of intergeneric hybrid of protoplast fusion of Monascus ruber and Pleurotus ostreatus
Authors: Kannan Suganya , Ayyakannu Usha Raja Nanthini
Published: July 2022

Protoplast fusion is a crucial technique for strain enhancement that brings genetic recombination to filamentous fungus and creates hybrid strains. In this present study, the intergenic fusion between M. ruber and P. ostreatus has been carried out to enhance pigments, secondary metabolites, and proximate values. Protoplasts from M. ruber and P. ostreatus were isolated and an equal amount of protoplast was taken and performed protoplast fusion. The regenerated colonies were plated in potato dextrose agar with selected biological markers (nystatin and fluconazole) for the confirmation of the hybrid. In a standardized condition, the protoplast yield of M. ruber and P. ostreatus was 2.31×107 cells/ml and 2.33×107 cells/ml, respectively. Acidic pH yielded high amounts of protoplasts than neutral and alkaline pH. KCl showed a high yield of protoplasts 2.36×106 cells /ml from M. ruber and 2.46×107cells/ml from P. ostreatus. The colony resistance to nystatin and fluconazole was confirmed that the obtained regenerated colonies were fusant. The fusant has no septation in its transverse walls with lipid droplets. Fusion of protoplast from M. ruber and P. ostreatus resulted in genetic inference at the metabolic levels, explaining the elevation of pigment in fusant colonies. The proximate composition of fusant strains was higher. In conclusion, we have developed a new strain with genetic variance capable of producing an increased level of pigment with nutritional value through protoplast fusion that allows the generation of fusant with the characteristics of parent strains and elucidates the effectiveness of fusant for commercial applications.
Springer Nature 2021 L A T E X template Monotone Ratio theorem convergence rate and its consequences in the theory of continuous-time Markov branching systems
Authors: Imomov Azam A. , Murtazaev Misliddin
Published: July 2022

We consider a critical homogeneous-continuous-time Markov branching system , i.e. the average value of the branching rate is one. Our basic assumption is that the branching rate generating function of the system regularly varies, in which slowly varying factor varies at infinity with an explicit expression remainder. We essentially rely on the improved version of the Basic Lemma of the critical Markov branching systems theory. First we establish a convergence rate in the Monotone ratio theorem. Subsequently we prove a local-convergence limit theorem on the asymptotic expansion of transition probabilities and their convergence to the invariant measure.MSC Classification: 60J80 , 60J85
Role of saline fluids in the growth of pyroxenes and garnet in metamorphosed banded iron formations and implications to crustal processes
Authors: Harlov Daniel E. , Windley B. F. , Satish-Kumar M. , Sajeev K. , Zhai M.
Published: July 2022

In this study we analysed layers of metamorphosed banded iron formation (BIF) in granulite-amphibolite facies tonalitic orthogneisses in the Kolli Massif of southern India with regard to their lithologies, whole rock chemistry, mineral reaction textures, and mineral chemistry and experimentally replicated the formation of pyroxene and garnet. On the basis of their mineral reaction textures along magnetite-quartz grain boundaries these BIF layers are grouped according to their predominant silicate mineralogy: 1) amphibole; 2) orthopyroxene; 3) orthopyroxene–clinopyroxene; 4) orthopyroxene-clinopyroxene-garnet; 5) clinopyroxene-garnet-plagioclase; and 6) silicate-absent. Two-pyroxene and garnet-pyroxene thermometry coupled with thermodynamic modelling of the magnetite-quartz-orthopyroxene-clinopyroxene-bearing lithologies indicates that the magnetite-quartz-orthopyroxene-clinopyroxene-garnet assemblages formed at ~ 10 kbar and 750 to 900°C under relatively low H2O activities. Magnetite-quartz-orthopyroxene textures were experimentally replicated at 800 and 900°C and 10 kbars using isolated magnetite grains in a quartz matrix to which was added small amounts of a hypersaline MgCl2- and Al2O3-bearing fluid, which permeated along all available grain boundaries. The fact that silicate reaction textures did not form in one of the BIF samples, which had experienced the same P-T, whereas a variety of orthopyroxene +/- clinopyroxene +/- garnet textures formed in the other BIF samples suggests that, unless the BIF was either initially contaminated during formation with or infiltrated from the surrounding rocks by Mg-, Al-, and Ca-bearing saline fluids, these silicate minerals could not and would not have formed from the inherent magnetite-quartz during granulite-facies metamorphism. These results indicate that saline fluids played a key role in progressing the metamorphic reactions during subduction of sediments.
Maize harvester gearbox design modification for improved fatigue life
Authors: Kim Ji-Tae , Lee Ho-Seop , Park Jung-Ho , Woo Jea-Keun , Choi Il-Su , Kim Young-Keun , Cho Seong-Je , Ha Chang-Sub , Park Young-Jun
Published: July 2022

A gearbox is a power transmission system consisting of various machine elements such as gears, bearings, shafts, and housings. The gearbox has the advantage of being able to change the torque and rotation speed according to the gear ratio and has high power transmission efficiency by transmitting power through the contact of the gear pair. Although improvement and optimization of gearbox performance was researched in various fields, it is being conducted using an equivalent load condition rather than an actual workload. If the gearbox is evaluated using the equivalent load condition, the evaluation results are less reliable. Therefore, the gearbox must be evaluated under the actual workload condition in which the gearbox is operated. In this study, the evaluation of the gearbox was performed based on the actual workload measured in the environment in which the gearbox operates, and design modifications were made to improve and optimize the gearbox performance. As a result, shaft deflection was reduced by rearrangement of the bearing, from an overhung type to a straddle type, thereby improving the fatigue life of the bearing. Finally, the load distribution acting on the gear tooth surface was improved through micro-geometry modification of the gear.
Racial and Ethnic variation in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic test results among individuals referred for genetic counseling at a large urban comprehensive cancer center
Authors: Abdallah Nadine , Purrington Kristen S. , Tatineni Sushma , Assad Hadeel , Petrucelli Nancie , Simon Michael S.
Published: July 2022

Purpose: The prevalence of pathogenic variants in BRCA1 and BRCA2 in populations other than Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) is not well defined. We describe the racial and ethnic-specific prevalence of BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants and variants of uncertain significance (VUS) among individuals referred for genetic testing in a large urban comprehensive cancer center over a 20-year period. Methods: The population included 3,537 unrelated individuals who underwent genetic testing from January 1999 to October 2019 at the Karmanos Cancer Institute. We estimated the prevalence of pathogenic variants and VUS and evaluated associations with race and ethnicity for African American (AA), Arab, AJ and Hispanic individuals compared to Non-Hispanic Whites (NHW). We used multivariable models to adjust for other predictors of pathogenic variants. We also reported the most common pathogenic variants by racial and ethnic group. Results: The racial and ethnic breakdown of our population was: NHW (68.9%), AA (20.3%), AJ (2.5%), Arab (2.2%), Hispanic (1.0%), Asian Pacific Islander, Native American/Alaskan Native (4.7%), and <1% unknown. The overall prevalence of pathogenic variants in BRCA1/2 was 8.9% and the prevalence of VUS was 5.6%. Compared to NHW, there were no racial or ethnic differences in the rate of pathogenic variants. However, AA individuals were more likely to have VUS in BRCA1 (adjusted OR 2.43, 95% CI 1.38-4.28) and AJ more likely to have VUS in BRCA2 (adjusted OR 3.50, 95% CI 1.61-6.58).Conclusion: These results suggest the continued need for genetic testing and variant reclassification for individuals of all race and ethnic groups.
Spatial-temporal contrast sensitivity of the eye alignment reflex
Authors: Dhungel Deepa , Stevenson Scott B
Published: July 2022

The binocular alignment of the eyes involves both voluntary and reflexive mechanisms, but little is known about the visual input and neurological pathway of the reflex component. Our studies examined the role of spatiotemporal frequency and contrast in the control of reflex eye alignment, and compares the contrast sensitivity of the alignment reflex with psychophysical contrast sensitivity. We measured the contrast sensitivity of vertical disparity-driven vergence eye movements in response to bandwidth filtered static or 6 Hz counterphase flickering noise and measured psychophysical detection sensitivity for the same stimuli. Contrast thresholds for producing a detectable vertical alignment change (measured with nonius lines) were determined using a staircase method for 7 spatial frequencies [0.25 to 16 cycles per degree] and 3 vertical disparities [5,10, and 30 arcmins] in 7 adults with normal or corrected to normal vision. The main findings of this study are, 1) the vertical alignment reflex had overall very high contrast sensitivity, comparable to but somewhat less than visual detection thresholds, 2) the most effective stimulus spatial frequency scaled in inverse proportion to the disparity being stimulated, and 3) unlike psychophysical contrast sensitivity, the eye alignment reflex contrast sensitivity was not improved by flickering low spatial frequencies.
Monthly and Annual Maximum Rainfall Prediction using Best Fitted Probability Distributions in Junagadh Region (Gujarat- India)
Authors: Gundalia Manoj
Published: July 2022

Rainfall is a meagre and crucial hydrological parameter in arid and semi-arid region. Junagadh (Gujarat-India) reels under monsoon rainfall uncertainties and thereby the agriculture and other water resources management activities suffer. Therefore, urgent attention is needed to address water resources conservation and crop damage issues due to deficits or excess rainfall. The amount of runoff produced and rainfall received determine the development of water resources in any region. Appropriate probability distributions need to be selected and fitted to the historical rainfall time series for better frequency analysis and forecasting of the rainfall. The daily rainfall data was collected for a period of 38 years i.e., from 1984 to 2021. In this study an attempt was made to find the most appropriate probability distributions for the better prediction of maximum rainfall by fitting the eight different hypothetical probability distributions to the monthly and annual maximum rainfall for one to five consecutive days. Chi-Square and Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency were employed to determine goodness of fit. The results indicated that the Gumbel distribution appears to be the best fit to predict monthly and annual maximum rainfall of Junagadh region.
Design, synthesis and assay of 2-(4-phenylpiperazin-1-yl)pyrimidine-5- carboxamide derivatives as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors
Authors: Wei Ben-Ben , Han Chuang , Shang Pan-Pan , Guo Xin-Yuan , Bai Li-Gai , Ma Zheng-Yue
Published: July 2022

A series of 2-(4-phenylpiperazin-1-yl)pyrimidine-5-carboxamide derivatives as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) were designed and synthesized for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Their bioactivities were evaluated by the Ellman’s method, and the results showed that most of synthesized compounds displayed moderate acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities in vitro. Among them, compound 6g exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity against AChE with IC50 of 0.90 µM, and poor inhibitory activity against butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) with IC50 of 7.53 µM, which indicated that compound 6g was a selective AChE inhibitor, and compound 6g as a selective AChE inhibitor was confirmed by the molecular docking studies of compound 6g with AChE and BuChE. Furthermore, the mechanism of inhibition of compound 6g against AChE was analyzed by the kinetic study, and the result indicated that compound 6g was the mixed-type inhibitor of competitive inhibition and non-competitive inhibition. All the above showed that compound 6g could be considered as a lead compound for the development of AD drugs.
miRNA-1976 regulates apoptosis of dopaminergic neuron cells by targeting to PINK1
Authors: Qiu Feng , Wu Yue , Cole Michael H. , Xie Guojin , Cao Hui , Du Mingyang , Jiang Haibo
Published: July 2022

Background
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a degenerative disease, the biomarkers are urgently required to assist with early diagnosis.
Objectives
We screened for differences in the expression of miRNAs and identified the miR-1976 as a possible biomarker of PD.
Methods
Twenty-three patients with PD and 30 controls were included in this case-controlled study. The dopamine neuron cells (MES23.5 cells) and the C57BL mice were cultured. The miRNA expression profiles were analyzed using the µParaflo® miRNA microarray. By miRNA microarray assay, miR-1976 was identified as a miRNA that was expressed differently between PD and controls. Lentiviral vectors were constructed for miR-1976, then the effect of apoptosis in dopaminergic neuron cell were analyzed by MTS and flow cytometry. We then used the biological analysis to predict the target gene of miR-1976 and predict its biological effect on MES23.5 cells by transaction of miR-1976 mimics.
Results
Overexpression of miR-1976 increased the cell apoptosis and mitochondria damage of dopaminergic neuron cells. The bioinformatic analysis showed that the PINK1 was the most common target protein of miR-1976 in MES23.5 cells, and the results were verified by Dual-Luciferase assay. Further analysis demonstrated that silence of PINK1 increased apoptosis of MES23.5 cells and damage of mitochondria.
Conclusion
miR-1976 is a newly discovered miRNA that exhibits a high degree of differential expression with respect to the apoptosis of dopaminergic neuron cells and, hence, may prove to be a new biomarker for PD. Besides, high expression of miR-1976 might improve PD development by targeting to PINK1.
Synthesis and Characterization of Manganese Ferrite nano-particles from Low-grade Manganese ore and Ferric oxide powder via Pyrometallurgy
Authors: Ahmad Salar , Ali Sajjad , Ullah Ikram , ali Sajjad , Weera Wajaree
Published: July 2022

The present study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of manganese ferrite. Manganese ferrite has been synthesized by mixing ferric oxide powder (Fe2O3) with low grade Mn-ore and then sintering it at different temperatures (1000-1200 0C). the method is cheap, simple, and easily controls particle size. It has been established that manganese ferrite phase has been successfully achieved at all the three sintering temperatures however, a higher peak has been noted at sintering temperature of 1200 0C in XRD diffractogram. An increase in particle size with increasing sintering temperature has been reported. Thermal analysis shows a weight gain of ( ) at ( ) which further confirm the phase formation of manganese ferrite. Stretching vibrations were recorded at 1636 cm-1 while some peaks were observed below 1000 cm-1 in FTIR graph which is a common feature of ferrites. Microstructural analysis show small pores at the surface and confirm that the synthesized manganese ferrite nano-particles show best magnetic properties and possess high melting point. A highly synchronous nucleation and growth of the synthesized nanoparticles is also confirmed from TEM analysis. Overall, because of its simpleness and cheapness this method could be used for synthesis of manganese ferrite synthesis.
Investigation of Drought Induced Biochemical and Gene Expression Changes in Carrot Indicate Cultivar Specific Resilience
Authors: Junaid Muhammad Daniyal , GÖKÇE Zahide Neslihan ÖZTÜRK , GÖKÇE Ali Fuat
Published: July 2022

Background: Carrot is the most important vegetable in Apiaceae family, and it is consumed globally due to its high nutritional quality. Drought stress is major environmental constraint for vegetables especially carrot. Limited data is available regarding the mechanisms conferring drought tolerance in carrot. Methods and Results: Eight commercial carrot cultivars were used in this study and subjected to drought stress under semi-controlled greenhouse conditions. Biochemical, antioxidant enzymatic activity and changes in transcript level of drought related genes was estimated in comparison to their control plants. Gene expression analysis was done by using qRT-PCR. Results revealed that cultivars Coral Orange, Tendersweet and Solar Yellow were resilient to drought stress, which was supported by their higher transcript levels of catalase gene (CAT), superoxide dismutase genes (Cu/ZN-SOD, Cu/Zn-SDC) in these cultivars. The downregulation of PDH1 gene (Proline dehydrogenase 1) was also observed that was associated with upregulation of proline accumulation in carrot plants. Moreover, results also suggested that PRT genes (Proline transporter genes) played a key role in drought tolerance in carrot cultivars.Conclusions: Among the cultivars studied, Coral Orange showed overall resilience under drought stress conditions, whereas cultivars Cosmic Purple and Eregli Black were sensitive. According to our knowledge, this is the first comparative study on drought resilience in several carrot cultivars. It will provide a background for carrot breeding to understand biochemical and molecular responses of carrot plant to drought stress and mechanisms behind it.
Bioactive VEGF-C from E. coli
Authors: Rauniyar Khushbu , Akhondzadeh Soheila , Gąciarz Anna , Vulli Jaana , Jeltsch Michael
Published: July 2022

Vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) stimulates lymphatic vessel growth in transgenic models, via viral gene delivery, and as a recombinant protein. Expressing eukaryotic proteins like VEGF-C in bacterial cells has limitations, as these cells lack specific posttranslational modifications and provisions for disulfide bond formation. However, given the cost and time savings associated with bacterial expression systems, there is considerable value in expressing VEGF-C using bacterial cells. We identified two approaches that result in biologically active E. coli-derived VEGF-C. Expectedly, VEGF-C expressed from a truncated cDNA became bioactive after in vitro folding from inclusion bodies. Given that VEGF-C is one of the cysteine-richest growth factors in humans, it was unclear whether known methods to facilitate correct cysteine bond formation allow for the direct expression of bioactive VEGF-C in the cytoplasm. By fusing VEGF-C to maltose-binding protein and expressing these fusions in the redox-modified cytoplasm of the Origami (DE3) strain, we could recover biological activity for deletion mutants lacking the propeptides of VEGF-C. This is the first report of a bioactive VEGF growth factor obtained from E. coli cells circumventing in-vitro folding.
The extremely rare chronic neutrophilic leukemia characterized by unrelieved abdominal distention and swollen painful limbs
Authors: Liu Yanquan , Tang Huanwen , Chen Yuting , Lun Weidan , Yan Zhimin
Published: July 2022

Backgroud: Although the pathogenesis of hematological tumors has not been fully elucidated, the academic community believes that genetic mutation abnormalities caused by a wide range of environmental factors play a crucial role in the occurrence and development of hematological malignancies. Chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL) is a rare hematological tumor in the world. It is characterized by a Philadelphia chromosome BCR-ABL1-negative myeloproliferative tumor. In addition, it can be accompanied by mutations in various genes. Among them, Colony-stimulating factor 3 receptor (CSF3R) is a classic mutation in CNL and is included in the diagnostic criteria for CNL.Case presentation: This article describes a 46-year-old male patient who came to the hospital with non-specific clinical manifestations such as unrelieved abdominal distension and edema of both lower extremities as the first symptoms. The middle-aged male patient was given a peripheral blood routine test and biochemical tests revealed abnormalities, and was then given a bone marrow biopsy to complete various tests such as bone marrow morphology, immunology, molecular biology, cytogenetics, and imaging. Finally, he was diagnosed as a rare chronic neutrophilic leukemia. After the diagnosis, the patient took ruxolitinib orally targeted therapy as prescribed by the doctor and regularly reviewed the peripheral blood examination and bone marrow status. The current condition is well controlled.Conclusion: CNL is extremely rare, and the disease usually has non-specific clinical features and manifestations as the first symptoms, which can easily lead to missed or misdiagnosed by clinicians. It is necessary to increase the awareness and vigilance of CNL.
Association of alcohol use with memory decline in middle-aged and older Chinese: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Tian Yu Meng , Zhang Wei Sen , Jiang Chao Qiang , Zhu Feng , Jin Ya Li , Zhu Tong , Cheng Kar Keung , Xu Lin
Published: July 2022

Background
Previous studies on associations of alcohol use with memory decline and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) showed inconclusive results. We examined these associations using longitudinal data from the Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study (GBCS) and explored whether these associations varied by sex.
Methods
Memory function was assessed by delayed 10-word recall test (DWRT) and immediate 10-word recall test (IWRT) at both baseline (2003–2008) and follow-up (2008–2012) examinations, expressed as the mean annual change and mean annual rate of change in scores. MCI was defined by DWRT score of less than 4. Generalized linear models and restricted cubic spline were used for data analysis.
Results
Of 14,827 participants without MCI at baseline, 90.2% were never or occasional drinkers, 5% moderate drinkers, 1.5% excessive drinkers, and 3.3% former drinkers. The mean (standard deviation) age was 60.6 (6.6) years old. During an average of 4.1 years follow-up, 968 (6.5%) participants developed MCI. After adjusting for confounders, compared with never or occasional drinkers, moderate and excessive drinkers had significant decline in DWRT score (β, 95% confidence interval (CI) = -0.04 (-0.08 to -0.01), and − 0.07 (-0.14 to 0.01), respectively), and IWRT score (β, 95% CI = -0.10 (-0.19 to -0.01), and − 0.15 (-0.30 to 0.01), respectively) annually. With respect to the mean annual rate of change, moderate and excessive drinkers also showed greater decline in DWRT score (β, 95% CI = -1.02% (-1.87% to -0.16%), and − 1.64% (-3.14% to -0.14%), respectively). The associations did not vary by sex (all p values for interaction ≥ 0.10).
Conclusions
Compared to never or occasional alcohol use, moderate and excessive alcohol users had greater memory decline, especially for immediate recall memory and the associations did not vary by sex.
Using long-term pheromone-baited trap catch data for spatial distribution patterns of Indian meal moth Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) occurring in local food facilities at Rajshahi Municipality, Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan Md. Mahbub , Athanassiou Christos G. , Hossain Md. Akhtar
Published: July 2022

The Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner), feeds on a wide range of commodities in most regions of the world. The present study presents six years of monitoring data for P. interpunctella in pheromone-baited traps by analyzing the trends of spatial variability, in five food facilities located in the Rajshahi municipality area of Bangladesh. We also tracked insect incidence at different spatial scales and evaluated the impact of food facility types and storage structures on insect populations. Our model showed an aggregated distribution pattern for P. interpunctella. Population patterns of P. interpunctella varied significantly among facilities. The highest number of moths captured was recorded in a grain retailer located at Municipal market, followed by a grain warehouse at Harian, pulse mill at Kazla, flour mill at Sapura and grocery at Katakhali. The population fluctuation of P. interpunctella moths was similar among the different locations tested, while there were no captures during the winter period. Our results indicate that long-term monitoring in a wide range of areas can be used to indicate population outbursts, under an area-wide management strategy.