bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ryanodine receptor 1-mediated Ca2+ signaling and mitochondrial reprogramming modulate uterine serous cancer malignant phenotypes
Authors: Zhang Li , Au-Yeung Chi-Lam , Huang Chunxian , Yeung Tsz-Lun , Ferri-Borgogno Sammy , Lawson Barrett C. , Kwan Suet-Ying , Yin Zheng , Wong Stephen T. , Thomas Vienna , Lu Karen H. , Yip Kay-Pong , Sham James S. K. , Mok Samuel C.
Published: August 2022

Background

Uterine serous cancer (USC) is the most common non-endometrioid subtype of uterine cancer, and is also the most aggressive. Most patients will die of progressively chemotherapy-resistant disease, and the development of new therapies that can target USC remains a major unmet clinical need. This study sought to determine the molecular mechanism by which a novel unfavorable prognostic biomarker ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1) identified in advanced USC confers their malignant phenotypes, and demonstrated the efficacy of targeting RYR1 by repositioned FDA-approved compounds in USC treatment.

Methods

TCGA USC dataset was analyzed to identify top genes that are associated with patient survival or disease stage, and can be targeted by FDA-approved compounds. The top gene RYR1 was selected and the functional role of RYR1 in USC progression was determined by silencing and over-expressing RYR1 in USC cells in vitro and in vivo. The molecular mechanism and signaling networks associated with the functional role of RYR1 in USC progression were determined by reverse phase protein arrays (RPPA), Western blot, and transcriptomic profiling analyses. The efficacy of the repositioned compound dantrolene on USC progression was determined using both in vitro and in vivo models.

Results

High expression level of RYR1 in the tumors is associated with advanced stage of the disease. Inhibition of RYR1 suppressed proliferation, migration and enhanced apoptosis through Ca2+-dependent activation of AKT/CREB/PGC-1α and AKT/HK1/2 signaling pathways, which modulate mitochondrial bioenergetics properties, including oxidative phosphorylation, ATP production, mitochondrial membrane potential, ROS production and TCA metabolites, and glycolytic activities in USC cells. Repositioned compound dantrolene suppressed USC progression and survival in mouse models.

Conclusions

These findings provided insight into the mechanism by which RYR1 modulates the malignant phenotypes of USC and could aid in the development of dantrolene as a repurposed therapeutic agent for the treatment of USC to improve patient survival.
Antibiotic prophylaxis for percutaneous renal biopsy: study protocol for a prospective randomized trial
Authors: Yahata Kensei , Yoshimoto Akihiro , Kinoshita Chiharu , Seta Koichi , Tsukamoto Tatsuo , Yanagita Motoko , Hata Hiroaki , Sakane Naoki
Published: August 2022

Background

The major complication of renal biopsy is bleeding. Infection is an extremely rare complication of percutaneous renal biopsy, providing sterile techniques are used and bowel perforation does not occur. However, the questionnaire included in the Kidney Biopsy Guidebook 2020 in Japan reported that antibiotic prophylaxis was administered to patients undergoing percutaneous renal biopsy at 61% of 170 adult institutions and 57% of 54 pediatric institutions. The objective of this study is to show the non-inferiority of not administering antibiotic prophylaxis for percutaneous renal biopsy.

Methods

Patients aged ≥15 years who are scheduled to undergo percutaneous renal biopsy are eligible for inclusion in the study. Three hundred and sixty-four patients will be recruited at 6 hospitals. The patients will be randomly assigned at a 1:1 ratio to receive either a single dose of intravenous cefazolin (1 g) or no antibiotic prophylaxis. The primary outcome is the number of patients that exhibit positive urine cultures (>105 colony-forming units/ml) 3 or 4 days after the renal biopsy, or at which point the patients are diagnosed with pyelonephritis until 3 or 4 days after the renal biopsy. The secondary outcomes are the number of patients who are diagnosed with pyelonephritis within 30 days after the renal biopsy, the number of patients who are diagnosed with puncture site infections within 30 days after the renal biopsy, the number of patients who are diagnosed with an infection other than pyelonephritis or a puncture site infection within 30 days after the renal biopsy, and the number of patients who experience cefazolin-induced side effects.

Discussion

This randomized controlled trial aims to show the non-inferiority of not administering antibiotic prophylaxis for percutaneous renal biopsy. If this study shows that antibiotic prophylaxis is not needed, it would help to ensure patient safety and prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Trial registration

UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR) UMIN000042378. Registered on 7 Nov 2020.
Identification and combinatorial engineering of indole-3-acetic acid synthetic pathways in Paenibacillus polymyxa
Authors: Sun Huimin , Zhang Jikun , Liu Wenteng , E Wenhui , Wang Xin , Li Hui , Cui Yanru , Zhao Dongying , Liu Kai , Du Binghai , Ding Yanqin , Wang Chengqiang
Published: August 2022

Background

Paenibacillus polymyxais a typical plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR), and synthesis of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) is one of the reasons for its growth-promoting capacity. The synthetic pathways of IAA inP. polymyxamust be identified and modified.

Results

P. polymyxaSC2 and its spontaneous mutant SC2-M1 could promote plant growth by directly secreting IAA. Through metabonomic and genomic analysis, the genespatA,ilvB3, andfusEin the native IPyA pathway of IAA synthesis in strain SC2-M1 were predicted. A novel strong promoterP04420was rationally selected, synthetically analyzed, and then evaluated on its ability to express IAA synthetic genes.Co-expression of three genes,patA,ilvB3, andfusE, increased IAA yield by 60% in strain SC2-M1. Furthermore, the heterogeneous geneiaamof the IAM pathway and two heterogeneous IPyA pathways of IAA synthesis were selected to improve the IAA yield of strain SC2-M1.The genesELJP6_14505,ipdC,andELJP6_00725of the entire IPyA pathway fromEnterobacter ludwigiiJP6 were expressed well by promoterP04420in strain SC2-M1 and increased IAA yield in the engineered strain SC2-M1 from 13 to 31 μg/mL, which was an increase of 138%.

Conclusions

The results of our study help reveal and enhance the IAA synthesis pathways ofP. polymyxaand its future application.
Docetaxel chemotherapy plus androgen-deprivation therapy in high-volume disease metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer in Chinese patients: an efficacy and safety analysis
Authors: Guo Zhuifeng , Lu Xuwei , Yang Fan , Qin Liang , Yang Ning , Wu Jiawen , Wang Hang
Published: August 2022

Objective

To investigate the efficacy and safety of docetaxel chemotherapy combined with androgen-deprivation therapy for patients with high-volume disease metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer.

Methods

153 cases of high-volume disease metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer in Minhang Hospital between January 2018 and December 2019 were analyzed retrospectively, including the number of patients, age, initial PSA level, Gleason score, TNM stage and ECOG score. 90 patients in the endocrine therapy group received continuous ADT, and 63 patients in the combined chemotherapy group received docetaxel plus ADT. The progression-free survival time (time from initiation of prostate cancer treatment to progression to CRPC), PSA response rate, and adverse reactions were compared between the two groups.

Results

All 153 cases were closely followed up for a period of 12.3–35.3 months, with a median follow-up time of 23.5 months. The median time to reach the lowest point of PSA in the two groups was 6.3 months and 7.9 months (P = 0.018) in the combination chemotherapy group and the ADT group alone, with 27 (42.9%) and 12 (13.3%) cases in the two groups Within 12 months of treatment, PSA decreased to below 0.2 ng/ml (P = 0.02), and progression-free survival was 16.9 months (6.5–28.5 months) and 11.2 months (4.3–22.7 months) in the two groups. (P < 0.001). There were 18 cases (28.6%) and 54 cases (60%) in the two groups with disease progression (P < 0.001). There were 6 cases (9.5%) and 15 cases (16.7%) in the combination chemotherapy group and the ADT group died of prostate cancer and related complications, respectively. All 63 cases in the combined chemotherapy group completed 6 cycles of chemotherapy. 39 (61.9%) cases experienced varying degrees of neutropenia, of which 12 (19%) experienced grade 3–4 neutropenia, with 6 cases (9.5%) developed febrile neutropenia. 30 cases (47.6%) had toxic reactions in the digestive system, and 3 case (4.3%) had grade 3 liver dysfunction. 27 cases (42.8%) had skin and mucosal toxicity. 9 cases (14.3%) had mild fluid retention. No blood and digestive toxicity were observed in the ADT group. 33 cases (52.4%) and 48 (53.3%) of the two groups had symptoms of afternoon hot flashes and fatigue, (P = 0.961).

Conclusion

Docetaxel chemotherapy combined with endocrine therapy could be one of effective treatments for delaying castration resistance of HVD-mHSPC, which could prolong PFS effectively and obtain a higher PSA response rate, high safety under close monitoring, and controllable adverse reactions.
Multifaceted roles of extracellular RNAs in different diseases
Authors: Sohail Abdullah Muhammad , Khawar Muhammad Babar , Afzal Ali , Hassan Ali , Shahzaman Sara , Ali Ahmed
Published: August 2022

Extracellular RNAs (exRNAs) are novel circulating factors that can be used as biomarkers in various diseases. Their unique and diverse kinds, as well as their role as biomarkers, make them significant biomarkers. There has been immense work carried out since the discovery of exRNAs in circulation and other biological fluids to catalog and determine whether exRNAs may be utilized as indicators for health and illness. In this review, we aim to understand the current state of exRNAs in relation to various diseases and their potential as biomarkers. We will also review current issues and challenges faced in using exRNAs, with clinical and lab trials, that can be used as viable markers for different diseases.
The morphogenesis of the rabbit meibomian gland in relation to sex hormones: Immunohistochemical and transmission electron microscopy studies
Authors: El-Desoky Sara M. M. , Abdellah Nada
Published: August 2022

Rabbits have been proposed as a model for the human meibomian gland (MG), a large specific sebaceous gland in the eyelid that consists of secretory acini arranged laterally and related to the central duct via short ductules, with the central duct continuing as an excretory duct to open at the free margin of the lid. First detected at embryonic day 18 as an aggregation of mesenchymal cells in the tarsal plate, it completes its development approximately 2 weeks postnatal when the separation of the eyelids is completed. The Transmission electron microscopy supports the meibocytes’ gradient maturation to the meibum’s synthesis. While the differentiating cells, their cytoplasm, are well packed with lipid droplets, the basal cells are characterized by a high nuclear to cytoplasm ratio. The androgen and estrogen receptor proteins are expressed in the basal cell and the meibocytes, and increase in age increases in the expression of these proteins. Additionally, the cytokeratin (CK14) is expressed in the basal and differentiating cells of the acini and the ductal epithelium. Therefore, the duct cells of the MG are common in all stem cells. These data concluded that the MG plays a major role in maintaining the health of the ocular surface and preservation of visual acuity. Any abnormalities in the structure of the MG lead to its dysfunction and changes in lipid secretion.
DeepLabCut increases markerless tracking efficiency in X-ray video analysis of rodent locomotion
Authors: Kirkpatrick Nathan J. , Butera Robert J. , Chang Young-Hui
Published: August 2022

Despite the prevalence of rat models to study human disease and injury, existing methods for quantifying behavior through skeletal movements are problematic owing to skin movement inaccuracies associated with optical video analysis, or require invasive implanted markers or time-consuming manual rotoscoping for X-ray video approaches. We examined the use of a machine learning tool, DeepLabCut, to perform automated, markerless tracking in bi-planar X-ray videos of locomoting rats. Models were trained on 590 pairs of video frames to identify 19 unique skeletal landmarks of the pelvic limb. Accuracy, precision and time savings were assessed. Machine-identified landmarks deviated from manually labeled counterparts by 2.4±0.2 mm (n=1710 landmarks). DeepLabCut decreased analysis time by over three orders of magnitude (1627×) compared with manual labeling. Distribution of these models may enable the processing of a large volume of accurate X-ray kinematics locomotion data in a fraction of the time without requiring surgically implanted markers.
Elevated shock index and modified shock index are associated with mortality and major adverse cardiac events in patients with acute myocardial infarction: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pramudyo Miftah , Putra Iwan Cahyo Santosa , Kamarullah William , Prameswari Hawani Sasmaya , Saboe Aninka , Akbar Mohammad Rizki
Published: August 2022

Background

Blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) have been studied extensively to predict unfavourable outcomes in patients suffering from an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Shock index (SI) and modified shock index (MSI) are two new emerging parameters that incorporate BP and HR into their calculations, thereby improving the predictive value of each HR and BP alone in AMI patients. Thus, our aim was to determine the prognostic utility of SI and MSI in AMI patients.

Methods

We searched PubMed, ProQuest, EBSCO Host, and Europe PMC from conception to May 2022. Studies were eligible if they evaluated the relationship of SI and MSI with all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiac events.

Results

A total of 16 studies involving 80,195 participants met the inclusion criteria and were included in this meta-analysis. Our study revealed significantly higher all-cause mortality risk for patients with high SI and MSI compared to patients with low indices, regardless of the periods of outcomes, study population, or diverse cut-off values. Moreover, both increased SI and MSI also predicted higher major adverse cardiac events rates.

Conclusions

According to our findings, both SI and MSI in the emergency department can predict all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiac events in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Given this growing body of evidence, as well as the fact that SI and MSI are very simple objective indices derived from two readily available vital signs, they should be used in daily clinical practice to risk stratify patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction.

PROSPER registration CRD42022329558.
UNESCO Transboundary Biosphere Reserves as laboratories of cross-border cooperation for sustainable development of border areas. The case of the Polish–Ukrainian borderland
Authors: Jakubowski Andrzej , Seidlová Alexandra
Published: August 2022

This paper aims to assess the current and potential role of UNESCO Transboundary Biosphere Reserves (TBRs) as a platform for cross-border-cooperation-enhancing sustainable development of border areas characterised by unique natural and cultural heritage but lagging in socio-economic terms. The study covered three TBRs located in the Polish–Ukrainian borderland: West Polesie, Roztocze and East Carpathians. The quantitative (regarding subject matter, partners involved, amount of funding, etc.) and qualitative analysis (aimed at examining the objectives of the initiatives undertaken in line with the BRs’ goals) included projects implemented under the CBC Programmes Poland–Belarus–Ukraine in the years 2004–2020. The results suggest that cross-border cooperation in the analysed areas was generally oriented toward TBR-related objectives, i.e., socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable development. At the same time, numerous barriers have been identified that limit the impact of cross border cooperation on the sustainable development of the TBRs.
“In principio”: The Metaphysical Exegesis of John 1:1 by Albert the Great, Bonaventure and Thomas Aquinas
Authors: Nannini Andrea , Trepczyński Marcin
Published: August 2022

„In principio”: metafizyczna egzegeza J 1,1 Alberta Wielkiego, Bonawentury i Tomasza z Akwinu

Artykuł przedstawia interpretacje słów „in principio” (Jan 1,1) zaproponowane przez Alberta Wielkiego, Bonawenturę i Tomasza z Akwinu w ich komentarzach do Ewangelii wg św. Jana. Ujęcia tych autorów różnią się. Albert używa pojęć pierwszej zasady oraz intelektu, który działa powszechnie i wytwarza swoje światło. Bonawentura buduje swoją interpretację na Augustyńskim rozróżnieniu między początkiem bez początku i początkiem z początku. Akwinata tworzy zaś ramę pojęciową opartą na teoriach metafizycznych. Wszystkie te ujęcia ujawniają metafizyczny charakter dokonanej przez tych autorów egzegezy pierwszego zdania Janowej Ewangelii. Owo metafizyczne nastawienie umożliwiło im zastosowanie zaawansowanych pojęć i stanowi jeden z powodów, by ich egzegezę określić jako “analityczną”.
De scripturis et scriptoribus sacris Hugona ze św. Wiktora. Wprowadzenie i przekład
Authors: Wierdak Damian
Published: August 2022

Niniejszy artykuł zawiera pierwszy przekład na język polski dzieła De scripturis et scriptoribus sacris Hugona ze św. Wiktora (zm. 1141), które stanowi wartościowy przykład scholastycznej introdukcji biblijnej. W tekście tym Hugon dostarcza przydatnych wskazówek, które pozwalają właściwie czytać, rozumieć i interpretować Pismo Święte. Cechą charakterystyczną dzieła jest mocny akcent położony na historyczne rozumienie tekstów natchnionych. Traktat zawiera osiemnaście rozdziałów, w których można wyróżnić następujące cztery zasadnicze grupy tematyczne: kryteria odróżniania pism natchnionych od pozostałych pism, kwestie związane z kanonicznością tekstów biblijnych, walor użyteczności Biblii oraz przedmiot materialny Pisma Świętego. Dzieło stanowi cenne źródło dla historii egzegezy biblijnej w średniowieczu i dostarcza praktycznych instrukcji egzegetycznych niezbędnych dla owocnej lektury Biblii aktualnych również dziś.
„Na zapłatę ludziom wojewódzkim”. Finansowanie chorągwi policyjnej województw poznańskiego i kaliskiego w latach 1734–1767
Authors: Glabisz Grzegorz
Published: August 2022

Celem artykułu jest ukazanie zagadnienia finansowania chorągwi policyjnej samorządu sejmikowego województw poznańskiego oraz kaliskiego, funkcjonującej w latach 1734–1767, z podatków czopowego i szelężnego. Podstawą tych rozważań będą głównie znakomicie zachowane materiały skarbowe z archiwum Komisji Skarbowej Poznańskiej (asygnacje, kwity, rejestry i rozliczenia), stanowiące ewenement na tle innych skarbów sejmikowych w skali całej Rzeczypospolitej. Dzięki ich analizie udało się uzyskać istotne informacje o tym, jak zarządzano lokalnymi finansami, w jakim czasie chorągiew otrzymywała fundusze oraz jak ówczesna sytuacja polityczno-gospodarcza województw wpływała na jej losy. Należy podkreślić, że w dotychczasowych badaniach nad finansowaniem tzw. wojsk powiatowych właściwe niespotykana była możliwość tak pogłębionych badań.
Rozważania nad historiografią polskiego powojennego podziemia niepodległościowego
Authors: Mazur Mariusz
Published: August 2022

Polskie powojenne podziemie niepodległościowe stało się jednym z najważniejszych tematów badawczych polskiej historiografii. Warto mu się przyjrzeć, wychodząc poza historię polityczno-zdarzeniową. W tym celu konieczne jest świadome odwoływanie się do reguł warsztatu naukowego. Pozwala to na wstępne ustalenie zarysu praw rządzących dotychczasową historiografią tego tematu, ustalenie wybranych argumentów perswazyjnych, wskazanie pomijanych determinant ówczesnej sytuacji, poszukiwanie pytań badawczych w interdyscyplinarności. W tekście zwrócono również uwagę na wybrane tematy, które warto byłoby opracować oraz zasygnalizowano kwestie etyczne i polityki historycznej.
Podobieństwa i zależności między "Vita S. Pauli monachi Thebaei" a "Vita S. Mariae Aegyptiacae"
Authors: Degórski Bazyli
Published: August 2022

Artykuł bada i pogłębia podobieństwa między Hieronimową Vita S. Pauli monachi Thebaei i Vita S. Mariae Aegyptiacae (utworem przypisywanym kiedyś Sofroniuszowi z Jerozolimy, a obecnie Pseudo-Sofroniuszowi), istotnymi ze względu na szereg cech charakterystycznych: przede wszystkim ze względu na bohaterów, o których traktują – św. Pawła Tebańczyka i św. Marię Egipcjankę, uważanych za największych przedstawicieli tego sposobu ascetycznego życia; po drugie, na datę powstania, która umieszcza oba dzieła wśród najstarszej spuścizny literackiej tego gatunku, a zatem także z powodu wpływu, jaki wywarły na późniejszą tradycję, zarówno praktyczną, jak i literacką; wreszcie ze względu na długość obu dzieł, która pozwala rozwinąć i lepiej skonfigurować strukturę i styl narracji tego gatunku.
The Role of Innovation Leadership in Teacher Commitment: A Study of Organizational Culture
Authors: Sutiyatno Sukris , Santoso Kartika Imam , Susilo Gatot
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to investigate the influence of innovation leadership on teacher commitment through organizational culture as a mediating variable. A quantitative approach using the survey method was used, and the sample was selected using proportional random sampling. The respondent consisted of 180 teachers from public vocational schools in Magelang. In addition, data were collected by questionnaire and analyzed by a structural equation model (SEM). The result showed that innovation leadership influenced organizational culture with a t-value of 2.95 > ttable (1.98) at .26. In contrast, organizational culture influenced teacher engagement with .27 and a t-value of 3.10 > ttable (1.98). Innovative leadership directly affected teacher commitment at .31 with a t-value of 3.41 > ttable (1.98) due to organizational culture being a mediating variable at .07. The overall influence on teachers' commitment through the organizational culture is .38. The analysis results explain that organizational culture can successfully mediate the relationship between innovation leadership to teachers' commitment. Therefore, these variables can be developed and implemented in schools to increase student achievement quality.
Evaluation of the Varian TrueBeam™ 6 MV phase-space files for the Monte Carlo simulation in small field dosimetry
Authors:   Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiology, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, Vimolnoch Mananchaya , Na Ayuthaya Isra Israngkul ,   Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiology, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, Kingkaew Sakda ,   Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiology, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, Oonsiri Sornjarod ,   Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiology, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
Published: August 2022

Background: The Monte Carlo (MC) simulation is an effective tool for determining the absorbed dose in small field sizes. To calculate accurate results, the MC simulation requires precise geometric and material descriptions of the linear accelerator head. Due to proprietary information issues, the description of the Varian TrueBeam™ linear accelerator (Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA) head geometry and material information are not available. Instead, the manufacturer provided a phase-space file just above the jaw for each photon energy level. Although several studies have validated the accuracy of this phase-space file, to the best of our knowledge, there are no reported data for a small field size (<2x2 cm2) of 6 MV photon beams. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Varian TrueBeam™ phase-space file of the 6 MV photon beam provided by the manufacturer for the Monte Carlo (MC) simulation in small field dosimetry. Materials and methods: The TrueBeam™ linear accelerator was simulated using an EGSnrc MC code with a Varian phase-space file as the input. The simulation was compared with the measurement using percent depth dose (PDD) and beam profile, and the field output factor (FOF) for the 0.6x0.6, 1x1, 2x2, 3x3, 4x4, 6x6, and 10x10 cm2 field sizes. Results: The agreement between the measurements and simulated PDD data was under 2.2% beyond the buildup region. The distance to agreement (DTA) in the buildup region was within 1.0 mm. The simulation data presented identical profiles with the measurement within 1.0% of the dose difference or 1.2 mm of the DTA. The mean dose difference in the radiation field was ≤1.5% for the ≥1x1 cm2 field size. The largest deviation was observed in the 0.6x0.6 cm2 inline beam profile. The deviation of the penumbra and full width at half maximum (FWHM) between simulation and measurement was <2 mm. The agreement of the simulated and measured FOF was within 1.0%, except for the 0.6x0.6 cm2 field size. Conclusion: Overall, the MC simulation demonstrates data that is consistent with the measurement for the ≥1x1 cm2 field sizes. These data assure that the 6 MV Varian phase-space file can be used as a radiation source for accurate MC dose calculation in a small field. However, a large discrepancy in beam profiles was observed at the 0.6x0.6 cm2 field size due to the different primary source sizes among TruebeamTM machines.
Handing Down: Making and Narrating Masculinity through Kinship Ties
Authors: Cao Siyang
Published: August 2022

Chapter 5 turns to the temporal dimension of masculinity located within kinship networks. By employing the concept of ‘handing down’, it unpacks both continuities and emerging transformations in the young men’s construction of kinship ties. The chapter looks into the generational transmission of masculinity and fatherhood by examining the interrelationship between the past, present and future. Moreover, it pays attention to a narrative process during which participants drew on personal memories and cultural traditions to negotiate masculinity in the interviews. While narrating the past tends to be remarkably reflexive and malleable, masculinity formation in the present and the future often loses its elasticity to varying degrees. The discussion of Chinese masculinity in kinship also demonstrates how core concepts of Confucian heritage persist over historical time.
Implementation of typical structured light beams in discrete dipole approximation for scattering problems
Authors: Hui Yuanfei , Cui Zhiwei , Han Yiping
Published: August 2022

In this work, we report an implementation of typical structured light
beams, including the Hermite–Gaussian beams, Laguerre–Gaussian beams,
Bessel beams, and Airy beams, in the discrete dipole approximation
(DDA) for scattering problems of small particles. The analytical
expressions for the electric field components of these beams are
presented, and the detailed processes for the implementation of these
beams in DDA are given, with particular emphasis on the explicit
codes. The calculated result for our codes of Gaussian beams is
compared with that from the Amsterdam DDA codes, and very good
agreement is observed. The internal and near-surface fields of a
sphere illuminated by the typical structured light beams with
different beam parameters are illustrated and discussed. Also, the
intensity distributions of internal and near-surface fields as well as
the scattering efficiency factor for the scattering of structured
light beams as mentioned above by sphere, spheroid, and cylinder are
presented. The proposed codes can be directly used for the
investigation of scattering of typical structured light beams by
complex particles within the framework of the DDA.
Experimental demonstration of dispersion-diversity multicore fiber optical beamforming
Authors: Ureña Mario , García Sergi , Herranz Jose I. , Gasulla Ivana
Published: August 2022

Phased array antenna (PAA) beam-steering in high radiofrequency bands will be key for upcoming 5G & Beyond wireless communications systems. As a compact and efficient solution to provide tunable beam steering simultaneously to parallel antenna distribution and connectivity, we experimentally demonstrate, for the first time to our knowledge, tunable optical beamforming implemented on a dispersion-diversity multicore optical fiber. The uniqueness of this fiber lies in the fact that each one of its seven step-index trench-assisted cores has been tailored to provide the required chromatic dispersion to enable tunable optical true-time delay line operation. Continuous 1D beam-steering was demonstrated by measuring the radiating pattern of an in-house fabricated 8-element PAA in an anechoic chamber at the radiofrequency of 26 GHz, sweeping the beam-pointing angle from -43° up to 40° by varying the operating optical wavelength from 1542.50 up to 1548.28 nm. Next-generation fiber-wireless communications systems will benefit from the demonstrated dispersion-diversity MCF optical beamforming in terms of flexibility, versatility, capacity, and connectivity along with reduced size, weight, and power consumption.
Out-of-plane beam shaping with UV-written tilted Bragg gratings for beam delivery on quantum chips
Authors: Ko Dong-Woo , Salman Ahmed Q. , Field James W. , Gates James C. , Horak Peter
Published: August 2022

We theoretically and numerically investigate the performance of tilted Bragg gratings in planar waveguides, fabricated by direct UV writing in photosensitive silica, to couple light out of a chip. An analytic expression is derived for the coupling efficiency and validated numerically by finite element simulations. Using the analytic result, we can design gratings to generate output beams in free space of any specific shape and calculate their overall power coupling efficiency. Our simulations indicate that for currently achievable grating index contrasts devices of millimeter length are most suitable for this technology.
Spinning thermal radiation from twisted two different anisotropic materials
Authors: Liu Pingan , Zhou Limei , Tang Jianxin , Wu Biyuan , Liu Haotuo , Wu Xiaohu
Published: August 2022

Thermal radiation has applications in numerous fields, such as radiation cooling, thermal imaging, and thermal camouflage. Micro/nanostructures such as chiral metamaterials with polarization-dependent or symmetry-breaking properties can selectively emit circularly (spin) polarized polarization waves. In this paper, we propose and demonstrate the spinning thermal radiation from two twisted different anisotropic materials. Taking industrial polymer and biaxial hyperbolic material α-MoO3 as an example, it is found that broadband spinning thermal radiation can be obtained from 13 µm to 18 µm. The spin thermal radiation of the proposed twisted structure originates from the combined effect of polarization conversion of circularly polarized wave and selective absorption of linearly polarized wave by the top and bottom layers of anisotropic materials, respectively. Besides, the narrowband spinning thermal radiation with 0.9 circular dichroism is achieved at wavelength of 12.39 µm and 18.93 µm for finite thickness α-MoO3 due to the epsilon-near-zero mode, and the magnetic field distribution can confirm the phenomenon. This work achieves broadband and narrowband spin thermal radiation and significantly enhances circular dichroism, which may have applications in biological sensing and thermal detection.
Diode-pumped SESAM mode-locked Tm:Sc2SiO5 laser
Authors: Hao Qianqian , Wang Qingguo , Zheng Lihe , Tong Luyang , Zhao Lina , Liu Jie , Su Liangbi , Xu Jun
Published: August 2022

We report a diode-pumped passively mode-locked Tm:Sc2SiO5 (Tm:SSO) laser for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. The stable continuous-wave (CW) mode-locking is achieved with a semiconductor saturable absorber mirror (SESAM). Operating at the eye-safe wavelength of 1967.7 nm, the pulsed laser delivers a pulse duration of 16.5 ps with an average output power of 207 mW. At a fundamental repetition frequency of 81 MHz, the signal-to-noise ratio is as high as 70 dB. These results demonstrate the great potential of Tm:SSO crystal for ultrashort pulse generation.
Data-driven modelling captures dynamics of the circadian clock of Neurospora crassa
Authors: Singh Amit , Li Congxin , Diernfellner Axel C. R. , Höfer Thomas , Brunner Michael
Published: August 2022

Eukaryotic circadian clocks are based on self-sustaining, cell-autonomous oscillatory feedback loops that can synchronize with the environment via recurrent stimuli (zeitgebers) such as light. The components of biological clocks and their network interactions are becoming increasingly known, calling for a quantitative understanding of their role for clock function. However, the development of data-driven mathematical clock models has remained limited by the lack of sufficiently accurate data. Here we present a comprehensive model of the circadian clock of Neurospora crassa that describe free-running oscillations in constant darkness and entrainment in light-dark cycles. To parameterize the model, we measured high-resolution time courses of luciferase reporters of morning and evening specific clock genes in WT and a mutant strain. Fitting the model to such comprehensive data allowed estimating parameters governing circadian phase, period length and amplitude, and the response of genes to light cues. Our model suggests that functional maturation of the core clock protein Frequency causes a delay in negative feedback that is critical for generating circadian rhythms.
2-deoxyglucose transiently inhibits yeast AMPK signaling and triggers glucose transporter endocytosis, potentiating the drug toxicity
Authors: Laussel Clotilde , Albanèse Véronique , García-Rodríguez Francisco Javier , Ballin Alberto , Defenouillère Quentin , Léon Sébastien
Published: August 2022

2-deoxyglucose is a glucose analog that impacts many aspects of cellular physiology. After its uptake and its phosphorylation into 2-deoxyglucose-6-phosphate (2DG6P), it interferes with several metabolic pathways including glycolysis and protein N-glycosylation. Despite this systemic effect, resistance can arise through strategies that are only partially understood. In yeast, 2DG resistance is often associated with mutations causing increased activity of the yeast 5’-AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK), Snf1. Here we focus on the contribution of a Snf1 substrate in 2DG resistance, namely the alpha-arrestin Rod1 involved in nutrient transporter endocytosis. We report that 2DG triggers the endocytosis of many plasma membrane proteins, mostly in a Rod1-dependent manner. Rod1 participates in 2DG-induced endocytosis because 2DG, following its phosphorylation by hexokinase Hxk2, triggers changes in Rod1 post-translational modifications and promotes its function in endocytosis. Mechanistically, this is explained by a transient, 2DG-induced inactivation of Snf1/AMPK by protein phosphatase 1 (PP1). We show that 2DG-induced endocytosis is detrimental to cells, and the lack of Rod1 counteracts this process by stabilizing glucose transporters at the plasma membrane. This facilitates glucose uptake, which may help override the metabolic blockade caused by 2DG, and 2DG export—thus terminating the process of 2DG detoxification. Altogether, these results shed a new light on the regulation of AMPK signaling in yeast and highlight a remarkable strategy to bypass 2DG toxicity involving glucose transporter regulation.
Determining the stability of genome-wide factors in BMI between ages 40 to 69 years
Authors: Gillespie Nathan A. , Gentry Amanda Elswick , Kirkpatrick Robert M. , Reynolds Chandra A. , Mathur Ravi , Kendler Kenneth S. , Maes Hermine H. , Webb Bradley T. , Peterson Roseann E.
Published: August 2022

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have successfully identified common variants associated with BMI. However, the stability of aggregate genetic variation influencing BMI from midlife and beyond is unknown. By analysing 165,717 men and 193,073 women from the UKBiobank, we performed BMI GWAS on six independent five-year age intervals between 40 and 72 years. We then applied genomic structural equation modeling to test competing hypotheses regarding the stability of genetic effects for BMI. LDSR genetic correlations between BMI assessed between ages 40 to 73 were all very high and ranged 0.89 to 1.00. Genomic structural equation modeling revealed that molecular genetic variance in BMI at each age interval could not be explained by the accumulation of any age-specific genetic influences or autoregressive processes. Instead, a common set of stable genetic influences appears to underpin genome-wide variation in BMI from middle to early old age in men and women alike.
A Drosophila Su(H) model of Adams-Oliver Syndrome reveals cofactor titration as a mechanism underlying developmental defects
Authors: Gagliani Ellen K. , Gutzwiller Lisa M. , Kuang Yi , Odaka Yoshinobu , Hoffmeister Phillipp , Hauff Stefanie , Turkiewicz Aleksandra , Harding-Theobald Emily , Dolph Patrick J. , Borggrefe Tilman , Oswald Franz , Gebelein Brian , Kovall Rhett A.
Published: August 2022

Notch signaling is a conserved pathway that converts extracellular receptor-ligand interactions into changes in gene expression via a single transcription factor (CBF1/RBPJ in mammals; Su(H) in Drosophila). In humans, RBPJ variants have been linked to Adams-Oliver syndrome (AOS), a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by scalp, cranium, and limb defects. Here, we found that a previously described Drosophila Su(H) allele encodes a missense mutation that alters an analogous residue found in an AOS-associated RBPJ variant. Importantly, genetic studies support a model that heterozygous Drosophila with the AOS-like Su(H) allele behave in an opposing manner to heterozygous flies with a Su(H) null allele, due to a dominant activity of sequestering either the Notch co-activator or the antagonistic Hairless co-repressor. Consistent with this model, AOS-like Su(H) and Rbpj variants have decreased DNA binding activity compared to wild type proteins, but these variants do not significantly alter protein binding to the Notch co-activator or the fly and mammalian co-repressors, respectively. Taken together, these data suggest a cofactor sequestration mechanism underlies AOS phenotypes associated with RBPJ variants, whereby the AOS-associated RBPJ allele encodes a protein with compromised DNA binding activity that retains cofactor binding, resulting in Notch target gene dysregulation.
Collecting mortality data via mobile phone surveys: A non-inferiority randomized trial in Malawi
Authors: Chasukwa Michael , Choko Augustine T. , Muthema Funny , Nkhalamba Mathero M. , Saikolo Jacob , Tlhajoane Malebogo , Reniers Georges , Dulani Boniface , Helleringer Stéphane
Published: August 2022

Despite the urgent need for timely mortality data in low-income and lower-middle-income countries, mobile phone surveys rarely include questions about recent deaths. Such questions might a) be too sensitive, b) take too long to ask and/or c) generate unreliable data. We assessed the feasibility of mortality data collection using mobile phone surveys in Malawi. We conducted a non-inferiority trial among a random sample of mobile phone users. Participants were allocated to an interview about their recent economic activity or recent deaths in their family. In the group that was asked mortality-related questions, half of the respondents completed an abridged questionnaire, focused on information necessary to calculate recent mortality rates, whereas the other half completed an extended questionnaire that also included questions about symptoms and healthcare. The primary trial outcome was the cooperation rate, i.e., the number of completed interviews divided by the number of mobile subscribers invited to participate. Secondary outcomes included self-reports of negative feelings and stated intentions to participate in future interviews. We called more than 7,000 unique numbers and reached 3,054 mobile subscribers. In total, 1,683 mobile users were invited to participate. The difference in cooperation rates between those asked to complete a mortality-related interview and those asked to answer questions about economic activity was 0.9 percentage points (95% CI = -2.3, 4.1), which satisfied the non-inferiority criterion. The mortality questionnaire was non-inferior to the economic questionnaire on all secondary outcomes. Collecting mortality data required 2 to 4 additional minutes per reported death, depending on the inclusion of questions about symptoms and healthcare. More than half of recent deaths elicited during mobile phone interviews had not been registered with the National Registration Bureau. Including mortality-related questions in mobile phone surveys is feasible. It might help strengthen the surveillance of mortality in countries with deficient civil registration systems. Registration: AEA RCT Registry, #0008065 (14 September 2021).
Prevalence and determinants of peripheral arterial disease in children with nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Akinyosoye Gbenga , Solarin Adaobi U. , Dada Adeyemi , Adekunle Motunrayo O. , Oladimeji Alaba B. , Owolabi Adeola O. , Akinsola Clement M. , Animasahun Barakat A. , Njokanma Fidelis O.
Published: August 2022

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is the least studied complication of nephrotic syndrome (NS). Risk factors which predispose children with NS to developing PAD include hyperlipidaemia, hypertension and prolonged use of steroids. The development of PAD significantly increases the morbidity and mortality associated with NS as such children are prone to sudden cardiac death. The ankle brachial index (ABI) is a tool that has been proven to have high specificity and sensitivity in detecting PAD even in asymptomatic individuals. We aimed to determine the prevalence of PAD in children with NS and to identify risk factors that can independently predict its development. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted involving 200 subjects (100 with NS and 100 apparently healthy comparative subjects that were matched for age, sex and socioeconomic class). Systolic blood pressures were measured in all limbs using the pocket Doppler machine (Norton Doppler scan machine). ABI was calculated as a ratio of ankle to arm systolic blood pressure. PAD was defined as ABI less than 0.9. The prevalence of PAD was significantly higher in children with NS than matched comparison group (44.0% vs 6.0%, p < 0.001). Average values of waist and hip circumference were significantly higher in subjects with PAD than those without PAD (61.68± 9.1cm and 67.6± 11.2 cm vs 57.03 ± 8.3cm and 65.60± 12.5cm respectively, p< 0.005). Serum lipids (triglyceride, very low density lipoprotein, total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein) were also significantly higher in subjects with PAD than those without PAD [106.65mg/dl (67.8–136.7) vs 45.72mg/dl (37.7–61.3), 21.33mg/dl (13.6–27.3) vs 9.14mg/dl (7.5–12.3), 164.43mg/dl (136.1–259.6) vs 120.72mg/dl (111.1–142.1) and 93.29mg/dl (63.5–157.3) vs 61.84mg/dl (32.6–83.1), respectively p< 0.05]. Increasing duration since diagnosis of NS, having a steroid resistant NS and increasing cumulative steroid dose were independent predictors of PAD in children with NS; p< 0.05 respectively. With these findings, it is recommended that screening for PAD in children with NS should be done to prevent cardiovascular complications before they arise.
Biological sample donation and informed consent for neurobiobanking: Evidence from a community survey in Ghana and Nigeria
Authors: Singh Arti , Arulogun Oyedunni , Akinyemi Joshua , Nichols Michelle , Calys-Tagoe Benedict , Ojebuyi Babatunde , Jenkins Carolyn , Obiako Reginald , Akpalu Albert , Sarfo Fred , Wahab Kolawole , Sunday Adeniyi , Owolabi Lukman F. , Adigun Muyiwa , Afolami Ibukun , Olorunsogbon Olorunyomi , Ogunronbi Mayowa , Melikam Ezinne Sylvia , Laryea Ruth , Asibey Shadrack , Oguike Wisdom , Melikam Lois , Sule Abdullateef , Titiloye Musibau A. , Yahaya Isah Suleiman , Bello Abiodun , Kalaria Rajesh N. , Jegede Ayodele , Owolabi Mayowa , Ovbiagele Bruce , Akinyemi Rufus
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Genomic research and neurobiobanking are expanding globally. Empirical evidence on the level of awareness and willingness to donate/share biological samples towards the expansion of neurobiobanking in sub-Saharan Africa is lacking.

Aims

To ascertain the awareness, perspectives and predictors regarding biological sample donation, sharing and informed consent preferences among community members in Ghana and Nigeria.

Methods

A questionnaire cross-sectional survey was conducted among randomly selected community members from seven communities in Ghana and Nigeria.

Results

Of the 1015 respondents with mean age 39.3 years (SD 19.5), about a third had heard of blood donation (37.2%, M: 42.4%, F: 32.0%, p = 0.001) and a quarter were aware of blood sample storage for research (24.5%; M: 29.7%, F: 19.4%, p = 0.151). Two out of ten were willing to donate brain after death (18.8%, M: 22.6%, F: 15.0%, p<0.001). Main reasons for unwillingness to donate brain were; to go back to God complete (46.6%) and lack of knowledge related to brain donation (32.7%). Only a third of the participants were aware of informed consent (31.7%; M: 35.9%, F: 27.5%, p<0.001). Predictors of positive attitude towards biobanking and informed consent were being married, tertiary level education, student status, and belonging to select ethnic groups.

Conclusion

There is a greater need for research attention in the area of brain banking and informed consent. Improved context-sensitive public education on neurobiobanking and informed consent, in line with the sociocultural diversities, is recommended within the African sub region.
Cost-effectiveness of the add-on exenatide to conventional treatment in patients with Parkinson’s disease when considering the coexisting effects of diabetes mellitus
Authors: Chen Hsuan-Chih , Wang Chen-Yu , Chen Hsiu-Hsi , Liou Horng- Huei
Published: August 2022

Objective

This study aims to investigate the cost-effectiveness of the add-on exenatide to conventional pharmacotherapy in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) when considering the coexistence of diabetes mellitus (DM).

Methods

We used the Keelung and Community-based Integrated Screening databases to understand the medical utilisation in the Hoehn and Yahr stages of patients with PD. A Markov model with 1-year cycle length and 50-year time horizon was used to assess the cost-effectiveness of add-on exenatide to conventional pharmacotherapy compared to conventional pharmacotherapy alone. All costs were adjusted to the value of the new Taiwanese dollar (NT$) as of the year 2020. One-way sensitivity and probability analyses were performed to test the robustness of the results.

Results

From a societal perspective, the add-on exenatide brought an average of 0.39 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained, and a cost increment of NT$104,744 per person in a 50-year horizon compared to conventional pharmacotherapy. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was NT$268,333 per QALY gained. As the ICER was less than the gross domestic product per capita (NT$839,558), the add-on exenatide was considered to be very cost-effective in the two models, according to the World Health Organization recommendation. Add-on exenatide had a 96.9% probability of being cost-effective in patients with PD, and a 100% probability of being cost-effective in patients with PD and DM.

Conclusion

Add-on exenatide is cost-effective in PD combined with DM. Considering that DM may be a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases, exenatide provides both clinical benefits and cost-effectiveness when considering both PD and DM.