bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human and machine learning pipelines for responsible clinical prediction using high-dimensional data
Authors: Sufriyana Herdiantri , Wu Yu Wei , Su Emily Chia-Yu
Published: March 2023

This protocol aims to develop, validate, and deploy a prediction model using high dimensional data by both human and machine learning. The applicability is intended for clinical prediction in healthcare providers, including but not limited to those using medical histories from electronic health records. This protocol applies diverse approaches to improve both predictive performance and interpretability while maintaining the generalizability of model evaluation. However, some steps require expensive computational capacity; otherwise, these will take longer time. The key stages consist of designs of data collection and analysis, feature discovery and quality control, and model development, validation, and deployment.
Inclusion of macromolecular crowders in three-dimensional human gingival fibroblast cultures
Authors: Ramalingam Rajesvaran , Häkkinen Lari
Published: March 2023

Fibroblast-derived extracellular matrix (ECM) niche regulates cell phenotype and behavior relevant to development, tissue homeostasis, wound healing, and pathological conditions. Improved understanding of cell-ECM interactions requires culture models that mimic the extracellular microenvironment found in vivo. Unlike in vivo, cultured cells reside in aqueous media containing a low concentration of macromolecules. Inclusion of inert macromolecular crowders (MMCs) allows to better mimic in vivo-like conditions in vitro in a phenomenon known as macromolecular crowding (MMC). We present here a standardized protocol to utilize MMCs (Ficoll 70/400) to generate human gingival fibroblast cultures that can be propagated at least for 21 days. The resulting cultures are composed of cells embedded in their own three-dimensional ECM and display gene expression and ECM composition that are distinct from that observed under non-crowded conditions.
Standard Operating Protocol: Implantation of Cambrige NeuroTech chronic silicon probe and mini-amp-64 digital headstage in mice
Authors: Jacobs Thomas , Darch Henry , Holtzman Tahl , de Zeeuw Chris , Romano Vincenzo
Published: March 2023

In this protocol, all steps required to perform implantation of a Cambridge NeuroTech chronic silicon probe and mini-amp-64 digital headstage, for cerebellar single-unit electrophysiology (above Crus I/II) are described, alongside detailed pictures of the procedure. This protocol starts by describing the steps needed to assemble the probe and nano-Drive; required to adjust probe position in the brain once implanted. The protocol then proceeds into the surgical procedure itself, which highlights all the important steps to perform successful implantation by means of constructing a small, lightweight and user-configurable headpiece implant.
Enhancement of Sapindus Trifoliatus Biodiesel Production and Performance using Mg-doped CaO Nanocatalyst
Authors: Muninathan Kota , Ramanan Madhavan Venkata
Published: March 2023

The use of biodiesel can reduce dependence on diesel and stabilize the economy when using internal combustion engines. CI engine's performance with biodiesel is substantially low but could be improved by emulsifying nano-additives with biodiesel. Magnesium-doped Calcium Oxide, a novel nanocatalyst is emulsified in its nano form with the Sapindus Trifoliatus biodiesel (STBD) at B25 blend (STBD25+Mg-CaO 30ppm) and tested in the CI engine. The performance results obtained are compared to the baseline values ​​obtained using diesel, Sapindus Trifoliatus biodiesel (STBD25), and Sapindus Trifoliatus biodiesel blended with Cao nano additives (STBD25+30ppm CaO) in the CI engine. . A maximum biodiesel yield of 91.75% was achieved at 58°C, 73 min, a catalyst concentration of 4% (%w / %w) and a methanol: oil molar ratio of 15:1. From the comparison, it is revealed that (i) In-cylinder pressure found to be increased by 3.22%, 6.24% and 9.02%, (ii) HRR increases by 1.68%, 16.69% and 32.5%, (iii) BTE is found to be increased by 4.56%, 8.23% and 11.79%, (iv) UHC decreases by 21.12%, 6.06% and 11.43%, (v) CO decreases by 0.04%, 0.01% and 0.01%, (vi) Smoke decreases by 54.52%, 9.34% and 19.58%, compared with diesel, STBD25+30ppm CaO and STBD25. NOx released while using STBD25+Mg doped CaO in CI engine was observed to decrease compared with STBD25 and STBD25+CaO (by 10.72 % and 18.64 %) and increase compared with diesel (by 8.64%). Whereas an insignificant drop in NOx was observed while using STBD25+Mg doped CaO as fuel compared with STBD25+CaO and STBD25 in spite of a significant increase in HRR and BTE which might be due to the capture of excess oxygen by Mg during the combustion diffusion phase.
Temperature Analysis of Thermosiphon Solar Water Heaters Using Different Flat Plate Collectors and MATLAB software.
Authors: Mahani Norul Ahsanah Aulia Mohamad , Awang Mariah , Hamidon Nuramidah , Rahman Mohd Shahril Abdul , Yusop Fatimah Mohamed , Rahman Mohammad Ashraf Abdul , Musa Mohd Kamaruzaman , Ahmad Faridahanim , Daud Siti Zaleha
Published: March 2023

Solar thermal energy was utilized to heat water for its useful applications. Moreover, solar water heaters have become essential in our lives, and using renewable energy sources is becoming more popular. The current effort is to test and find the effectual solar water heating system. Solar water heater designs have been suggested and produced within two methods whereas forced circulation using a mechanical pump and natural circulation without the use of a pump also recognized as thermosiphon solar water heater. This research was to analyse most efficient Flat Plate Collector (FPC) in terms of heat absorption on Thermosiphon Effect due to energy collection by different colour, material, and glazing. This experiment uses Solar Energy Trainer and MATLAB software to compare the impact of several forms FPC on heat absorption of thermosiphon effect in solar water heater. The most efficient FPC in terms of colour is black collector with higher efficiency of 9.3% compared to white while most efficient FPC in terms of material and glazing are copper and double-glazing collector with 10.86% and 11.15% respectively. The experiment and analysis show that various types of FPC with good heat absorber have higher efficiency.
Factors predicting the intention of drug abuse avoidance among adolescents in Pinlaung Township, Myanmar: Predictive correlational design
Authors: Latt Nang Nwe Nwe , Putdivarnichapong Wimolnun , Phetrasuwan Supapak , Vongsirimas Nopporn
Published: March 2023

Background:Adolescence is a critical transitional period when young adults are at high risk for taking and abusing drugs and controlled substances. In Myanmar, drug use is common among adolescents and is a public health concern. Drug abuse prevention education has not been studied or evaluated among the Myanmar adolescent population. This study investigated the effects of sex, parental history without drug/alcohol abuse, self-efficacy, parental marital status, and family functioning on the intention of drug abuse avoidance among Myanmar adolescents.
Methods:This is a predictive correlational study. The Biopsychosocial Model of Engle (1977) provided the theoretical framework for this study. A purposive sampling method was employed to collect data from 157 students between 13-18 years old in middle and high school in Palaung Township, Southern Shan State, Myanmar, during the Covid-19 pandemic and political movement. The sample size was calculated using G* power software. Four self-administered questionnaires: a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Thai Family Functioning Scale (TFFS), the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE), and the Intention of Drug Avoidance Scale (IDAS) were used to collect the data. Multiple linear regression was employed to analyze the data.
Results: Five predictors, including sex, parental history without drug/alcohol abuse, self-efficacy, parental marital status, and family functioning, explained 24.4% of the variance in the intention of drug abuse avoidance among Myanmar adolescents. In addition, only three factors, sex (β= -.25, p<.01), self-efficacy (β= .16, p<.05), and family functioning (β= .31, p<.001) statistically and significantly predicted the intention of drug abuse avoidance among Myanmar adolescents.
Conclusions: Self-efficacy, female gender, and family functioning predicted the intention of drug abuse avoidance among Myanmar adolescents in Palaung Township, Southern Shan State, Myanmar.
Implications of this study: The results of this study have implications for all stakeholders involved in drug abuse prevention through research, education, practice, and policymaking of psychoeducational programs, developing interventions for substance abuse prevention, and issuing policies leading to improvements in intentions of drug abuse avoidance among Myanmar adolescents.
Genome-wide association study of lipids in Greenlandic Inuit shows independent PCSK9 association and reveals a unique genetic architecture
Authors: Senftleber Ninna , Andersen Mette , Jørsboe Emil , Stæger Frederik , Nøhr Anne , Garcia-Erill Genis , Meisner Jonas , Santander Cindy , Balboa Renzo , Gilly Arthur , Bjerregaard Peter , Larsen Christina , Grarup Niels , Jørgensen Marit , Zeggini Eleftheria , Moltke Ida , Hansen Torben , Albrechtsen Anders
Published: March 2023

Perturbation of lipid homeostasis is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death worldwide. We aimed to identify genetic variants affecting lipid levels, and thereby risk of CVD, in Greenlanders. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of six blood lipids, triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, total cholesterol, as well as apolipoproteins A1 and B, were performed in up to 4473 Greenlanders. For genome-wide significant variants, we also tested for associations with additional traits, including CVD events. We identified 11 genome-wide significant loci associated with at least one of the lipid traits, and a potential causal variant near PCSK9 (rs12117661), which was independent of the known PCSK9 loss-of-function variant (rs11491147). rs12117661 was associated with lower LDL-cholesterol (βSD(SE)=-0.22 (0.03), p=6.5x10-12) and total cholesterol (-0.17 (0.03), p=1.1x10-8) in the Greenlandic study population. Similar associations were observed in Europeans from the UK Biobank, where the variant was also associated with a lower risk of CVD outcomes. Moreover, rs12117661 was a top eQTL for PCSK9 across tissues in GTEx, and was located in a predicted regulatory element, supporting a possible causal impact on PCSK9 expression. Combined, the 11 GWAS hits explained up to 16.3% of the variance of the lipid traits. This suggests that the genetic architecture of lipid levels in Greenlanders is markedly different from Europeans, with fewer variants explaining the variance.
Diabetes Management through Telementoring of Primary Care Providers and Community Health Workers: Changes in Patient-Reported Outcomes
Authors: Paul Margaret M. , Saad Andrea Davila , Billings John , Blecker Saul , Bouchonville Matthew F. , Chavez Cindy , Arora Sanjeev , Berry Carolyn A.
Published: March 2023

Background
Endocrine ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) is a scalable model of healthcare education that extends enhanced training through ongoing telementoring of community primary care providers (PCPs) by a team of specialists. The purpose of this study was to assess whether patients of providers engaged in the Endocrine ECHO program (Endo ECHO) exhibited improvements in lifestyle, and self-management behaviors.
Methods
A sample of 533 adult Endo ECHO patients diagnosed with type 1 or complex type 2 diabetes (insulin dependent and/or with an HbA1c of 9% or higher) took a comprehensive survey during Endo ECHO study enrollment (pre-test) and again after at least one year past their first exposure to the intervention (post-test). We assessed pre/post changes in patient-reported outcomes on well-being, lifestyle, and self-management behaviors using McNemar’s tests for paired data.
Results
A broad array of patients’ self-reported well-being, lifestyle, and self-management behaviors improved over the course of their engagement in the Endo ECHO program. Despite relatively low average health literacy and numeracy, patients’ confidence and self-efficacy to manage their disease also improved significantly from pre-test to post-test.
Discussion
Endo ECHO may be an effective means of enhancing primary care for individuals with type 1 and complex type 2 diabetes and improving patient capacity to perform the extensive array of lifestyle and self-care behaviors necessary to effectively manage their diabetes outside of the clinical setting.
Conclusions
The ECHO model of care has been shown to improve provider and satisfaction, quality of care, and in some cases clinical outcomes across various program areas. This study indicates that endocrinology-focused ECHO programs may also lead to behavior changes among patients in between visits to their provider. Further research should examine the impact of the ECHO model on patient behavior.
SCF and IL-33 regulate mouse mast cell phenotypic and functional plasticity supporting a pro-inflammatory microenvironment
Authors: Lecce Mario , Milito Nadia , Putro Erisa , Pietropaolo Giuseppe , Marangio Caterina , Scarno Gianluca , Moretti Marta , De Smaele Enrico , Santini Tiziana , Bernardini Giovanni , Sciumè Giuseppe , Santoni Angela , Molfetta Rosa , Paolini Rossella
Published: March 2023

Mast cells (MCs) are multifaceted innate immune cells often present in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Several recent findings support their contribution in the transition from chronic inflammation to cancer. However, MC-derived mediators can either favor tumor progression, inducing spread of the tumor, or exert anti-tumorigenic functions, limiting tumor growth.
This apparent controversial role likely depends on the plastic nature of MCs that under different microenvironmental stimuli can rapidly change their phenotype and functions.
Thus, the exact effect of unique MC subset(s) during tumor progression is far from being understood. Using a murine model of colitis-associated colorectal cancer, we initially characterized MC population within the TME and in non-lesional colonic areas, by multicolor flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. Our results demonstrated that tumor-associated MCs harbor a main connective tissue phenotype and release high amounts of Interleukin (IL)-6 and Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)a. This MC phenotype correlates with the presence of high levels of Stem Cell Factor (SCF) and IL33 inside the tumor.
Thus, we investigated the effect of SCF and IL-33 on primary MC cultures and underscore their ability to shape MC phenotype eliciting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Our findings support the conclusion that during colonic transformation a sustained stimulation by SCF and IL-33 promotes the accumulation of a prevalent connective tissue-like MC subset that through the secretion of IL-6 and TNF-a maintains a pro-inflammatory microenvironment.
Health Literacy predicts incident foot ulcers after 4 years – the SHELLED cohort study
Authors: Chen Pamela , Callisaya Michele , Wills Karen , Greenaway Timothy , Winzenberg Tania
Published: March 2023

Aims/hypothesis: To determine whether health literacy is associated with an index diabetes-related foot ulcer (DFU).
Methods: The SHELLED Study is a 4-year prospective study of people with diabetes aged over 40 with no history of DFU. The primary outcome was development of a first foot ulcer. Health Literacy was measured using the short form Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (s-TOFHLA) and nine domains of the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ).
Results: Of 222 participants, 191 (86.0%) completed the study, of whom 13 (5.9%) developed an incident ulcer. In multivariable models, every unit increase in S-TOFHLA score reduced the odds of foot ulcer development by 6% (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.88 to 0.99). Better scores on two HLQ domains reduced the odds of foot ulcer (actively managing my health (OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.65) and understanding health information well enough to know what to do (OR 0.39, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.78). This was independent of baseline risk for foot disease.
Conclusions/interpretation: These data provide novel evidence that health literacy is an important clinical risk factor for index foot ulceration. People with poor health literacy should be identified for tailored educational programs for DFU prevention.
Role of sputum cultures in diagnosis and surgical outcome prediction of bacterial empyema
Authors: Liu Chia-Chi , Cheng Ya-Fu , Chen Yi-Ling , Cheng Ching-Yuan , Huang Chang-Lun , Hung Wei-Heng , Wang Bing-Yen
Published: March 2023

Background:
Thoracic empyema is a serious infectious disease worldwide. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery is strongly recommended as a treatment, and pleural fluid and tissue cultures can be obtained intraoperatively. The combination of a pleural peels tissue culture and a pleural fluid culture improves the positive culture rate. We aimed to investigate the role of sputum cultures to determine the optimal management for improving surgical outcome.
Methods:
This retrospective study identified 1197 patients with phase II or III thoracic empyema from our institution. Patients who underwent decortication of the pleura from April 2011 to May 2022 with a positive pleural culture were included.
Results:
There were 225 empyema patients with either a positive pleural fluid culture or a positive pleural peel tissue culture. Of these, 76 patients had positive sputum culture findings during hospitalization. The most common species of pathogens were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (44%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (16%) in the sputum cultures and Streptococcus spp. (20%) and Staphylococcus aureus(11%) in the pleural cultures. There were 30 patients who had a common pathogen in a sputum culture and in the pleural fluid/tissue culture. Poor outcome measures were found in these patients, including the longer use of antibiotics preoperatively (19.03±37.66 days versus 9.59±27.09 days, p=0.006) and a higher mortality rate during hospitalization (40.0% versus 17.4%, p=0.002).
Conclusions:
The sputum culture plays an essential role in diagnosis of bacterial empyema and in prediction of surgical outcome. Obtaining the sputum specimen promptly through proper methods helps to improve the survival of empyema patients.
Calorimetric evidence for two phase transitions in Ba1-xKxFe2As2 with fermion pairing and quadrupling states
Authors: Shipulin Ilya , Stegani Nadia , Maccari Ilaria , Kihou Kunihiro , Lee Chul-Ho , Li Yongwei , Hühne Ruben , Klauss Hans-Henning , Putti Marina , Caglieris Federico , Babaev Egor , Grinenko Vadim
Published: March 2023

Materials that break multiple symmetries allow, under certain conditions, the formation of four-fermion condensates above the superconducting critical temperature (Tc). Such states can be stabilized by phase fluctuations. Recently a fermionic quadrupling condensate that breaks the Z2 time-reversal symmetry was reported in Ba1-xKxFe2As2 [V. Grinenko et al., Nat. Phys. 17, 1254 (2021)]. However, the related anomaly was not resolved in the specific heat measurements. Resolving two anomalies at Tc and the Z2 transition temperature (TcZ2 > Tc) is key evidence for the existence of two distinct electronic phases. In a broader
context, the lack of an additional anomaly in the specific heat at TcZ2 is a common unsolved problem for most superconductors with broken time-reversal symmetry, even in the conventional case where TcZ2 < Tc. Here, we report on detecting two anomalies in the specific heat of Ba1-xKxFe2As2 at zero magnetic field. The anomaly at the higher temperature is accompanied by the appearance of a spontaneous Nernst effect, indicating broken Z2 symmetry. The second anomaly at the lower temperature coincides with the transition to a zero resistance state, indicating superconductivity that breaks the U(1) gauge symmetry. Our data provide the first example of the appearance of a specific heat anomaly above the superconducting phase transition associated with the broken time-reversal symmetry due to the formation of the novel fermion order.
Genome-wide study of longitudinal brain imaging measures of multiple sclerosis progression across six clinical trials
Authors: Loomis Stephanie J. , Sadhu Nilanjana , Huang Yunfeng , Yang Chengran , Fisher Elizabeth , Gafson Arie R , Hughes Emily E. , Marshall Eric , Herman Ann , John Sally , Runz Heiko , Jia Xiaoming , Bhangale Tushar , Bronson Paola G.
Published: March 2023

While the genetics of MS risk susceptibility are well-described, the genetics of disease progression remain elusive. We therefore investigated the genetic determinants of MS progression on longitudinal brain MRI: change in brain volume (BV); and change in T2 lesion volume (T2LV), reflecting progressive tissue loss and increasing disease burden, respectively. We performed genome-wide association studies of change in BV (N=3,401) and change in T2LV (N=3,513) across six randomized clinical trials from Biogen and Roche/Genentech: ADVANCE, ASCEND, DECIDE, and OPERA I & II, and ORATORIO. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, ancestry, and treatment. Results were pooled for meta-analysis, and were evaluated for enrichment of MS risk variants. Variant colocalization and cell-specific expression analyses were performed using published cohorts. The strongest peaks were in PTPRD (rs77321193-C/A, p=3.9x10-7) for BV change, and NEDD4L (rs11398377-GC/G, p=9.3x10-8) for T2LV change. Evidence of colocalization was observed for NEDD4L, and both genes showed increased expression in neuronal and/or glial populations. No association between MS risk variants and MRI outcomes was observed. In this unique, precompetitive industry partnership, we report putative regions of interest in the neurodevelopmental gene PTPRD, and the ubiquitin ligase gene NEDD4L. These findings are distinct from known MS risk genetics, indicating an added role for genetic progression analyses and informing drug discovery.
Trial registry name and numbers:
ASCEND (NCT01416181), ADVANCE (NCT00906399), DECIDE (NCT01064401), OPERA1 (NCT 01247324), OPERA2 (NCT 01412333), ORATORIO (NCT 01194570)
Lyapunov Functions and Regions of Attraction for Spherically Constrained Relative Orbital Motion
Authors: Woodford Nathaniel , Harris Matthew
Published: March 2023

This paper considers the problem of a deputy spacecraft constrained to remain a fixed distance from another spacecraft. The relative dynamics of the deputy spacecraft are derived from a velocity-dependent potential function. A constant of motion is presented that aids in the development of multiple Lyapunov functions and stabilizing control laws. Through both numerical and analytical methods, estimates of the region of attraction are presented for each of the control laws. These regions of attraction serve as domains on which it is conclusively known that the equilibrium points are stabilizable. Lastly, a control law with a spatially maximal region of attraction is presented that can be used to track a time-varying trajectory.
Discovery of maslinic acid being a Nav1.7 inhibitor with analgesic efficacy in rodent pain models
Authors: Dai Shao-Xing , Osafo Raymond Kwaku , Wang Yan-Yan , Xiang Jia-Yao , Gao Jing-Yao , Liang Ji-Hao , Zhao San-Jun , Wang Gong-Wu , xu Min
Published: March 2023

Background Voltage gated sodium channels are essential for the generation of exceptional pain signals after peripheral nerve injury. Among them, voltage-gated sodium (Nav) subtype Nav1.7 is a powerful target for a broad range of pain conditions. Maslinic acid, one of the most common pentacyclic triterpenes widely distributed in medicinal plants, showed pharmacologic safety and potent pharmacological action. Herein, we present maslinic acid (MA) as an inhibitor of Nav1.7 with analgesic efficacy in rodent pain models. Methods We first explored the target of maslinic acid using the CMap method and patch clamp recording. Maslin acid and its inactive analogue (oleanolic acid as negative controls) was used to culture MCF-7 cells. Then, we performed RNA-seq of the cultured MCF-7 cells and analyzed the transcriptome data. The differential genes were identified and used as an input for CMap. The CMap result was further confirmed by patch clamp recording. Results The CMap result suggested that maslinic acid was an agonist of Nav channels. Further whole cell patch-clamp experiments revealed that maslinic acid inhibited the Nav1.7 channel with an IC50value of 6.1 µM. Conclusion Maslinic acid showed a potent analgesic effect in two rodent models of formaldehyde and acid-induced pain. Our findings show novel insights into the new target of maslinic acid in complex neurological disorders. Maslinic acid targeting Nav1.7 is a new analgesic lead.
Investigation of the factors influencing spinal manipulative therapy force transmission through the thorax: a cadaveric study
Authors: Mikhail Jérémie , Funabashi Martha , Sobczak Stéphane , Descarreaux Martin , Pagé Isabelle
Published: March 2023

Background
Spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) clinical effects are believed to be linked with its force-time profile characteristics. Previous studies have revealed that the force measured at the patient-table interface is most commonly higher than the force applied at the clinician-table interface. The factors explaining this force amplification remains unclear.
Objective
To determine the difference between the force applied on cadaveric specimen’s thoracic spine and the resulting force measured by a force-sensing table as well as to evaluate the relationship between this difference of force and both the SMT force-time characteristics and the specimen characteristics.
Methods
Twenty-five SMTs with different force-time profiles were delivered by an apparatus at the T7 vertebra of 9 human cadaveric specimens lying prone on a treatment table instrumented with a force plate. The difference between the force applied by the apparatus and the resulting force measured by the force plate was calculated (Fdiff). Difference in force was also expressed as the percentage of the applied force (Fdiff%). Kinematics markers were inserted into T6 to T8 spinous and transverse processes to evaluate vertebral displacements during SMT thrusts. Mixed-effects linear models were conducted to evaluate the variance in Fdiff and Fdiff% explained by SMT characteristics (peak force, thrust duration and rate of force), T6 to T8 relative and total displacements, and specimens’ characteristics (BMI, height, weight, kyphosis angle, thoracic thickness).
Results
Sixty percent of the trials showed lower force measured at the force plate than the one applied at T7. Fdiff¸ was significantly predicted (R2marginal = 0.54) by peak force, thrust duration, thoracic thickness and T6-T7 relative displacement in the z-axis. Fdiff% was significantly predicted (R2marginal = 0.56) by rate of force application, thoracic thickness and T6 total displacements. For both dependant variables, thoracic thickness showed the highest R2marginal out of all predictors.
Conclusion
Difference in force between the clinician-patient and the patient-table interfaces is influenced by SMT force-time characteristics and by the thoracic thickness. How these differences in force are associated with vertebral displacements remains unclear. Future investigations should measure SMT force-time profiles at both interfaces and normalization with thoracic thickness should be considered when measuring force at the patient-table interface.
Comparative chloroplast genomics reveals the phylogeny and the adaptive evolution of Begonia in China
Authors: Xiong Chao , Huang Yang , Li Zhenglong , Wu Lan , Liu Zhiguo , Zhu Wenjun , Li Jianhui , Xu Ran , Hong Xin
Published: March 2023

Background
The Begonia species are common shade plants that are mostly found in southwest China. They have not been well studied despite their medicinal and decorative uses because gene penetration, decreased adaptability, and restricted availability are all caused by frequent interspecific hybridization.
Result
To understand the patterns of mutation in the chloroplast genomes of different species of Begonia, as well as their evolutionary relationship, we collected seven Begonia species in China and sequenced their chloroplast genomes. Begonia species exhibit a quadripartite structure of chloroplast genomes (157,634 − 169,694 bp), consisting of two pairs of inverted repeats (IR: 26,529 − 37,674 bp), a large single copy (LSC: 75,477 − 86,500 bp), and a small single copy (SSC: 17,861 − 18,367 bp). 128–142 genes (comprising 82–93 protein-coding genes, 8 ribosomal RNAs, and 36–43 transfer RNAs) are found in the chloroplast genomes. Based on comparative analyses, this taxon has a relatively similar genome structure. A total of ten substantially divergent DNA regions (rpl32, trnS-GCU, trnT-UGU-trnL-UAA, atpF-atpH, ycf4-cemA, rps19-trnG-UCC, trnD-GUC-trnY-GUA, trnC-GCA-petN, trnE-UUC-trnT-GGU and petD-rpoA) are found in the seventeen chloroplast genomes. These regions are suitable for species identification and phylogeographic analysis. Phylogenetic analysis shows that Begonia species that were suited to comparable environments grouped in a small clade and that all Begonia species formed one big clade in the phylogenetic tree, supporting the genus' monophyly. In addition, positive selection sites are discovered in eight genes (rpoC1, rpoB, psbE, psbK, petA, rps12, rpl2 and rpl22), the majority of which are involved in protein production and photosynthesis.
Conclusion
Using these genome resources, we can resolve deep-level phylogenetic relationships between Begonia species and their families, leading to a better understanding of evolutionary processes. In addition to enhancing species identification and phylogenetic resolution, these results demonstrate the utility of complete chloroplast genomes in phylogenetically and taxonomically challenging plant groupings.
The links of 137 to the fine structure constant, Planck length, Coulomb and gravitational constants, and mass ratios of elementary particles
Authors: Tang Jau , Tang Brian
Published: March 2023

In this work, we present a theory to explain the origin of the value of the fine structure constant. Based on gauge invariance, Einstein’s mass-energy relation, and spacetime quantization, we obtain its ideal value of 1/137 for a “bare” Dirac electron in lattice spacetime and obtain an estimate of its radius, electrons’ Coulomb-gravitational force ratio 𝐹𝐶⁄𝐹𝐺 = 3 × (137𝜋)16, and the mass ratios of an electron to other particles such as a proton, Higgs boson, W/Z bosons, and quarks. With the proposed quantized spacetime, singularity divergence, and vacuum catastrophe problems in continuum quantum field theory can be avoided. The simplicity of these formulae implies intricate links of the magic 137 not only to electromagnetism but also to the other three types in nature.
Dynamic interplay between sortilin and syndecan-1 drives a metabolic switch during prostate cancer progression
Authors: Lazniewska Joanna , Li Ka Lok , Johnson Ian , Sorvina Alexandra , Logan Jessica , Martini Carmela , Moore Courtney , Ung Ben , Karageorgos Litsa , Prabhakaran Sarita , Heatlie Jessica , Brooks Robert , Hickey Shane , Huzzell Chelsea , Warnock Nicholas , Ward Mark , Mohammed Bashir , Tewari Prerna , Martin Cara , O'Toole Sharon , Edgerton Laura Bogue , Bates Mark , Moretti Paul , Pitson Stuart , Selemidis Stavros , Butler Lisa , O'Leary John , Brooks Douglas
Published: March 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) development and progression relies on the programming of glucose and lipid metabolism, and this involves alterations in androgen receptor expression and signalling. Defining the molecular mechanism that underpins this metabolic programming will have direct significance for patients with PCa who have a poor prognosis. Here we show that there is a dynamic balance between sortilin and syndecan-1, that reports on different metabolic phenotypes. Using tissue microarrays, we demonstrated by immunohistochemistry that sortilin was highly expressed in low-grade cancer, while syndecan-1 was upregulated in high-grade disease. Mechanistic studies in prostate cell lines (selected to match the biomarker phenotypes in tissue from PCa patients) revealed that in androgen-sensitive LNCaP cells, sortilin enhanced glucose metabolism by regulating GLUT1 and GLUT4, while binding progranulin and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) to limit lipid metabolism. In contrast, in androgen-insensitive PC3 cells, syndecan-1 was upregulated, interacted with LPL and colocalised with β3 integrin to promote lipid metabolism. In addition, androgen-deprived LNCaP cells had decreased expression of sortilin and reduced glucose-metabolism, but increased syndecan-1 expression, facilitating interactions with LPL and possibly β3 integrin. We report a hitherto unappreciated molecular mechanism for PCa, which has significance for disease progression and how androgen-deprivation therapy may promote castration-resistant PCa.
Occurrence of MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism and its association with atherogenic indices in Mexican women from San Luis Potosi, a preliminary study
Authors: Fernández-Macías Juan Carlos , Ochoa-Martínez Angeles C. , Pérez-López Amairani Lizbeth , Pérez-López Annette Aylin , Pérez-Maldonado Iván Nelinho
Published: March 2023

Some genetic variants (polymorphisms) of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme are considered a susceptibility factor in the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and levels of well-recognized atherogenic indices in a female population from San Luis Potosi, Mexico. A total of 340 women participated in the study, and MTHFR C677T genotypification was assessed using a RT-PCR assay. Also, Framingham risk score (FRS), Castelli risk index (CRI), and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) were estimated. The allelic frequency detected was 0.43 for the MTHFR 677T-allele in the enrolled women. Besides, the mean value of AIP was significantly higher (p<0.05) for individuals with the mutant genotype (TT; 0.29 ± 0.20) contrasted to AIP values detected in people with the wild-type genotype (CC; 0.15 ± 0.20) and heterozygous genotype (CT; 0.16 ± 0.20). Similar findings were observed for CRI through MTHFR C677T genotypes (4.40 ± 1.80; 3.90 ± 1.30; and 3.60 ± 0.90; for CC, CT, and TT, respectively). No significant changes were detected for FRS values across MTHFR C677T genotypes. Lastly, significant statistical associations were identified between the TT genotype and the AIP values (odds ratio: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.95-4.95; p= 0.01). No significant associations were detected between MTHFR C677T genotypes and FRS and CRI indices values. The results found in this research agree with data that support an increased CVDs risk in MTHFR 677T-allele carriers in the human population, as AIP is considered a reliable CVDs risk biomarker.
Housing inventory projection method for natural hazard modeling applications
Authors: Williams Caroline Jeanne , Davidson Rachel , Nozick Linda , Millea Meghan , Kruse Jamie , Trainor Joseph
Published: March 2023

Today’s regional natural hazards loss models rarely incorporate changes in a region’s built environment over time, and thus likely misestimate a region’s natural hazard risk. Of the existing natural hazard loss models that incorporate changes in the built environment, none are developed at an adequately granular spatiotemporal scale that is appropriate for regional (multi-county) natural hazards loss modeling. This work presents the new Housing Inventory Projection (HIP) method for estimating regional changes in a region’s housing inventory for natural hazards loss modeling purposes. The method is divided into two modules: (1) the Regional Annual County-Level Housing (REACH) module, which estimates the annual number of housing units per county over a multi-county region and multi-decadal projection period, and (2) the Single-family Location Estimation (SLE) module, which estimates the likely location of future single-family housing units across a subcounty grid space. While the HIP method is modular and can be applied over a range of spatiotemporal scales, we present a case study that estimates the number of single-family houses per 1 km2 grid cell in the state of North Carolina for each year from 2020 to 2049. We then used these projections to estimate how a future housing stock would experience a Hurricane Florence-type event. Future housing projections suggest that between 2020 and 2049, nearly 2,900 new houses will be built, each year, in areas that experienced at least two feet of flooding following Hurricane Florence.
Optimization of machining parameters in drilling of aluminium matrix composite (Al7050-12wt.% ZrO2) using Taguchi technique
Authors: Rai Anjani Kumar , V Alagarsamy S , Hossain Ismail , Kannan Sathish , A.H. Seikh , A Iqbal
Published: March 2023

This study focused on optimizing the drilling variables for minimizing the surface roughness (Ra) of Al7050 alloy based composite using Taguchi technique. The stir casting route was adopted to synthesis the Al7050 matrix composite with addition of 12 wt. % ZrO2 particles as reinforcement. The different process parameters such as spindle speed (v), feed (f), and depth of cut (d) were chosen as the input parameters, while the Ra was considered as the output response. Based on the parameters selection, the drilling process was carried out on Taguchi L16 orthogonal design. The SN (signal-to-noise) ratio and ANOVA (analysis of variance) were applied to yield the optimal setting of parameters and their impact contribution on Ra for the drilled composite. The SN ratio results identified that the minimum value of Ra was achieved at 1600 rpm of spindle speed, 0.12 mm/rev of feed and 1.0 mm of depth of cut. ANOVA result observed that the most noteworthy parameter for Ra was feed (62.24%), followed by spindle speed (26.24%). The contour graphs revealed that the Ra value drastically reduced when an increase in depth of cut (d) and decrease in feed (f). The regression model has been formulated to establishing the relationship of drilling parameters on Ra.
Translatome analysis of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex-1 patient-derived neural progenitor cells reveal rapamycin-dependent and independent alterations
Authors: Aksoylu Inci , Martin Pauline , Robert Francis , Szkop Krzysztof , Redmond Nicholas , Chen Shan , Beauchamp Roberta , Nobeli Irene , Pelletier Jerry , Larsson Ola , Ramesh Vijaya
Published: March 2023

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an inherited neurocutaneous disorder caused by mutations in TSC1 or TSC2 genes, with patients often exhibiting neurodevelopmental (ND) manifestations termed TSC-associated neuropsychiatric disorders (TAND) including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The hamartin-tuberin (TSC1-TSC2) protein complex inactivates mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling, leading to increased protein synthesis via inactivation of translational repressor eIF4E-binding proteins (4E-BPs). In TSC1-null neural progenitor cells (NPCs), we previously reported early ND phenotypic changes, including increased proliferation/altered neurite outgrowth, which were unaffected by mTORC1-inhibitor rapamycin. Here, using polysome-profiling to quantify translational efficiencies at a transcriptome-wide level, we observed numerous TSC1-dependent alterations in NPCs, largely recapitulated in post-mortem brains from ASD donors. Although rapamycin partially reversed TSC1-associated alterations, most neural activity/synaptic- or ASD-related genes remained insensitive but were inhibited by third-generation bi-steric, mTORC1-selective inhibitor RMC-6272, which also reversed altered ND phenotypes. Together these data reveal potential implications for treatment of TAND.
Midwife-led Pandemic Telemedicine Services for Maternal Health and Gender-Based Violence Screening in Bangladesh: An Implementation Research Case Study
Authors: Islam Amirul , Begum Farida , Williams Anna , Basri Rabeya , Ara Rowsan , Anderson Rondi
Published: March 2023

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted maternal and newborn health services in Bangladesh, increasing the large gaps in service utilization that existed prior to the pandemic. As part of its response, Bangladesh initiated remote antenatal and postnatal care telemedicine services led by midwives in 36 sub-district hospitals across five of Bangladesh’s 64 districts. Gender-based violence screening and referral were integrated into the service to address a reported rise in violence following the country’s pandemic lockdown.
Methods
Mixed-methods implementation research was used to develop a case study describing the design and implementation of the telemedicine program. Qualitative analysis comprised document review, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative analysis employed descriptive statistics to compare service use trends before and after implementation.
Results
Challenges included the unanticipated need to introduce a scheduling system in all intervention hospitals and that many women were not reachable by phone due to lack of access or network coverage. Some women were also reluctant to discuss gender-based violence. However, maternity care service use increased, with 19%-31% more women receiving skilled maternal and newborn care than otherwise would have. In addition, there was a doubling of cases of postpartum hemorrhage and eclampsia that were identified and effectively responded to.
Conclusions
Maternal health and gender-based violence telemedicine led by midwives was an effective, low-cost intervention in Bangladesh for addressing pandemic and pre-pandemic gaps in service use. Other low and middle-income countries planning to implement remote maternal health interventions via midwives should consider whether a scheduling system needs to be introduced, as well as limitations around mobile phone access and connectivity. Future research should include care quality oversight and improvement.
Environmental Pollution loads on surface Water Chemistry and Potentially Ecological Risks of Inland Aquatic Ecosystem In South-eastern State, Nigeria
Authors: Ubuoh E.A , Nwogu F.U , Ofoegbu C.C , Chikezie P.C
Published: March 2023

The study assessed water chemistry of Nworie inland aquatic ecosystem in South eastern, Nigeria. Water samples were taken from the upper, middle, and lower river at 200m interval. Data collected were subjected to multivariate Statistics. Results of physicochemical tracers indicated mean Ph, CaCO3, Ca2+&Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) to be 6.2, 172.8mg/l, 103.1mg/l, 16.50mg/l respectively above the WHO critical limits, while others were below the limits. Heavy metals (mg/l) showed mean values viz: Cd 2+(0.053), Cr2+(0.049), Fe2+(0.443), Ni2+(0.024), and Pb (0.787) which were all above some critical global limits, except for Cu2+ and Zn2+ and in decreasing abundance: Pb2+≥ Fe2+≥Cu2+≥Zn2+≥Cd2+≥ Cr2+≥ Ni2. Physicochemical tracers and elements in water correlated in both positive and negative directions. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed significant loads of PC3; CaCO3, NO3, COD, DO, Ca, PO4, Cu, Fe, Zn, PC2; moderate loads of SO4, Cl, & Na originating from complex human activities. Contamination factor (Cf), pollution load & ecological risk recorded low in decreasing order: Cr2+≥Zn2+≥Ni2+≥ Cd2+≥ Pb2+ ≥ Cu2+≥ Fe2+ with contamination degree in order of: Lower River (LR)≥Upper River(UR)≥Middle River(MR) and low risk index. Continuous monitoring of human activities along the whole River is important to mitigate any aquatic ecosystem damage for water quality sustainability.
Risk assessment and clinical prediction model of planned transfer to the ICU after hip arthroplasty in elderly individuals
Authors: Sun Jianguang , Huang Lue , Yang Yali , Liao Hongxing
Published: March 2023

Background: With the development of hip arthroplasty technology and rapid rehabilitation theory, the number of hip arthroplasties in elderly individuals is gradually increasing, and their satisfaction with surgery is also gradually improving. However, for elderly individuals, many basic diseases, poor nutritional status, the probability of surgery, anaesthesia and postoperative complications cannot be ignored. How to reduce theincidence of postoperative complications, optimize medical examination for elderly patients, and reasonably allocate medical resources. This study focuses on the construction of a clinical prediction model for planned transfer to the ICU after hip arthroplasty in elderly individuals.
Methods: Weretrospectively analysed 325 elderly patients who underwent hip arthroplasty. The general data and preoperative laboratory test results of the patients were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to screen independent influencing factors. The backwards LR method was used to establish the prediction model. Then, we assessed and verified the degree of discrimination, calibration and clinical usefulness of the model. Finally, the prediction model was rendered in the form of a nomogram.
Results:Age, blood glucose, direct bilirubin, glutamic-pyruvic transaminase, serum albumin, prothrombin time and haemoglobin were independent influencing factors of planned transfer to the ICU after hip arthroplasty. The area under the curve (AUC) of discrimination and the 500 bootstrap internal validation AUC of this prediction model was 0.793. The calibration curve fluctuated around the ideal curve and had no obvious deviation from the ideal curve. When the prediction probability was 12%-80%, the clinical decision curve was above two extreme lines. The discrimination, calibration and clinical applicability of this prediction model were good. The clinical prediction model was compared with the seven factors in the model for discrimination and clinical use. The discrimination and clinical practicability of this prediction model were superior to those of the internal factors.
Conclusion: The prediction model has good clinical prediction ability and clinical practicability. The model is presented in the form of a linear graph, which provides an effective reference for the individual risk assessment of patients.
Nutrient supply from marine small-scale fisheries
Authors: Viana Daniel F. , Zamborain-Mason Jessica , Gaines Steven D. , Schmidhuber Josef , Golden Christopher D.
Published: March 2023

Over 2 billion people are unable to access safe, nutritious and sufficient food year-round. While global fisheries are considered key in providing essential nutrients to hundreds of millions of people around the globe, the specific contribution of small-scale fisheries to the nutrient supply given other available food supplies is unknown. Here, we combined multiple global databases to quantify the importance of marine small-scale fisheries to national-level nutrient supply of coastal populations. We found that, on average across assessed nutrients (iron, zinc, calcium, DHA+EPA and vitamins A and B12), small-scale fisheries contributed about 32% of overall global seafood nutrient supply, 17% of the nutrient supply from animal-sourced foods and 10% of nutrient supply from all foods. These global averages, however, underrepresent some key roles of ocean-based foods. Combining nutrient supply estimates with global estimates of inadequate nutrient intake, we found that about half of coastal countries that have at least 50% of mean inadequate intake across assessed nutrients (iron, zinc, calcium, DHA+EPA and vitamins A and B12) rely on small-scale fisheries for at least 15% of mean nutrient supply, and many rely on small scale fisheries for more that 30% of mean nutrient supply. Small-scale fisheries catch is particularly important for the supply of vitamin B12, calcium and DHA+EPA, representing up to 100% of supply in selected countries. Our study demonstrates the significance of small-scale fisheries for nutritionally vulnerable coastal populations, emphasizing how effective fisheries management can contribute to public health.