bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytogenomic characterization of a de novo 4q34.1 deletion in a girl with mild dysmorphic features and a coagulation disorder
Authors: Meza-Espinoza Juan Pablo , Contreras-Gutiérrez José Alfredo , Arámbula-Meraz Eliakym , González-García Juan Ramón , Domínguez-Quezada Ma. Guadalupe , García-Magallanes Noemí , Madueña-Molina Jesús , Benítez-Pascual Julio , Partida-Pérez Miriam , Picos-Cárdenas Verónica Judith
Published: September 2021

Background

4q deletion syndrome is a rare chromosomal disorder that mostly arises de novo. The syndrome is characterized by craniofacial dysmorphism, digital abnormalities, skeletal alterations, heart malformations, developmental delay, growth retardation, Pierre Robin sequence, autistic spectrum and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, although not every patient shows the same features. Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) use improves the detection of tiny chromosomal deletions and allows for a better understanding of genotype–phenotype correlations in affected patients. We report the case of a 6-year-old female patient showing mild dysmorphic features, mild mental disabilities and a coagulation disorder as a consequence of a de novo del(4)(q34.1) characterized by aCGH.

Case presentation

A 6-year-old female patient exhibited special craniofacial features, such as backward-rotated ears, upslanted palpebral fissures, broad nasal bridges, anteverted nares, broad nasal alae, smooth philtrums, smooth nasolabial folds, thin lips, horizontal labial commissures, and retrognathia. In the oral cavity, maxillary deformation, a high arched palate, agenesis of both mandibular canines and fusion of two mandibular incisors were observed. She also displayed bilateral implantation of the proximal thumbs, widely spaced nipples, dorsal kyphosis, hyperlordosis, and clitoral hypertrophy. In addition, the patient presented with coagulopathy, psychomotor delay, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, and mild mental disability. A chromosomal study showed the karyotype 46,XX,del(4)(q34.1), while an aCGH analysis revealed an 18.9 Mb deletion of a chromosome 4q subtelomeric region spanning 93 known genes.

Conclusion

The clinical manifestations of this patient were similar to those reported in other individuals with 4q deletion syndrome. Although most of the patients with a 4q34 terminal deletion share similarities, variations in phenotype are also common. In general, clinical effects of chromosomal deletion syndromes depend on the length of the deleted chromosomal segment and, consequently, on the number of lost genes; however, in all of these syndromes, there is no simple correlation between the phenotype and the chromosomal region involved, particularly in cases of 4q deletion.
Assessing the effect of interaction between C-reactive protein and gut microbiome on the risks of anxiety and depression
Authors: Chen Yujing , Meng Peilin , Cheng Shiqiang , Jia Yumeng , Wen Yan , Yang Xuena , Yao Yao , Pan Chuyu , Li Chun’e , Zhang Huijie , Zhang Jingxi , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Feng
Published: September 2021

Cumulative evidence shows that gut microbiome can influence brain function and behavior via the inflammatory processes. However, the role of interaction between gut dysbiosis and C-reactive protein (CRP) in the development of anxiety and depression remains to be elucidated. In this study, a total of 3321 independent single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci associated with gut microbiome were driven from genome-wide association study (GWAS). Using individual level genotype data from UK Biobank, we then calculated the polygenetic risk scoring (PRS) of 114 gut microbiome related traits. Moreover, regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the possible effect of interaction between gut microbiome and CRP on the risks of Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) (N = 113,693) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) (N = 114,219). At last, 11 candidate CRP × gut microbiome interaction with suggestive significance was detected for PHQ-9 score, such as F_Ruminococcaceae (β = − 0.009, P = 2.2 × 10–3), G_Akkermansia (β = − 0.008, P = 7.60 × 10–3), F_Acidaminococcaceae (β = 0.008, P = 1.22 × 10–2), G_Holdemanella (β = − 0.007, P = 1.39 × 10–2) and O_Lactobacillales (β = 0.006, P = 1.79× 10–2). 16 candidate CRP × gut microbiome interaction with suggestive significance was detected for GAD-7 score, such as O_Bacteroidales (β = 0.010, P = 4.00×  10–4), O_Selenomonadales (β = − 0.010, P = 1.20 × 10–3), O_Clostridiales (β = 0.009, P = 2.70 × 10–3) and G_Holdemanella (β = − 0.008, P = 4.20 × 10–3). Our results support the significant effect of interaction between CRP and gut microbiome on the risks of anxiety and depression, and identified several candidate gut microbiomes for them.
Sulfarotene, a synthetic retinoid, overcomes stemness and sorafenib resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma via suppressing SOS2-RAS pathway
Authors: Qi Feng , Qin Wenxing , Zhang Yao , Luo Yongde , Niu Bing , An Quanlin , Yang Biwei , Shi Keqing , Yu Zhijie , Chen Junwei , Cao Xin , Xia Jinglin
Published: September 2021

Background

Recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) shows strong resistance to sorafenib, and the tumor-repopulating cells (TRCs) with cancer stem cell-like properties are considered a driver for its high recurrent rate and drug resistance.

Methods

Suppression of TRCs may thus be an effective therapeutic strategy for treating this fatal disease. We evaluated the pharmacology and mechanism of sulfarotene, a new type of synthetic retinoid, on the cancer stem cell-like properties of HCC TRCs, and assessed its preclinical efficacy in models of HCC patient-derived xenografts (PDXs).

Results

Sulfarotene selectively inhibited the growth of HCC TRCs in vitro and significantly deterred TRC-mediated tumor formation and lung metastasis in vivo without apparent toxicity, with an IC50 superior to that of acyclic retinoid and sorafenib, to which the recurrent HCC exhibits significant resistance at advanced stage. Sulfarotene promoted the expression and activation of RARα, which down-regulated SOS2, a key signal mediator associated with RAS activation and signal transduction involved in multiple downstream pathways. Moreover, sulfarotene selectively inhibited tumorigenesis of HCC PDXs with high expression for SOS2.

Conclusions

Our study identified sulfarotene as a selective inhibitor for the TRCs of HCC, which targets a novel RARα-SOS2-RAS signal nexus, shedding light on a new, promising strategy of target therapy for advanced liver cancer.
CPR with restricted patient access using alternative rescuer positions: a randomised cross-over manikin study simulating the CPR scenario after avalanche burial
Authors: Wallner Bernd , Moroder Luca , Salchner Hannah , Mair Peter , Wallner Stefanie , Putzer Gabriel , Strapazzon Giacomo , Falk Markus , Brugger Hermann
Published: September 2021

Background

The aim of this manikin study was to evaluate the quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with restricted patient access during simulated avalanche rescue using over-the-head and straddle position as compared to standard position.

Methods

In this prospective, randomised cross-over study, 25 medical students (64% male, mean age 24) performed single-rescuer CPR with restricted patient access in over-the-head and straddle position using mouth-to-mouth ventilation or pocket mask ventilation. Chest compression depth, rate, hand position, recoil, compression/decompression ratio, hands-off times, tidal volume of ventilation and gastric insufflation were compared to CPR with unrestricted patient access in standard position.

Results

Only 28% of all tidal volumes conformed to the guidelines (400–800 ml), 59% were below 400 ml and 13% were above 800 ml. There was no significant difference in ventilation parameters when comparing standard to atypical rescuer positions. Participants performed sufficient chest compressions depth in 98.1%, a minimum rate in 94.7%, correct compression recoil in 43.8% and correct hand position in 97.3% with no difference between standard and atypical rescuer positions. In 36.9% hands-off times were longer than 9 s.

Conclusions

Efficacy of CPR from an atypical rescuer position with restricted patient access is comparable to CPR in standard rescuer position. Our data suggest to start basic life-support before complete extrication in order to reduce the duration of untreated cardiac arrest in avalanche rescue. Ventilation quality provided by lay rescuers may be a limiting factor in resuscitation situations where rescue ventilation is considered essential.
High incidence and mortality of Pneumocystis jirovecii infection in anti-MDA5-antibody-positive dermatomyositis: experience from a single center
Authors: Huang Linlin , Fu Qiong , Ye Yan , Lin Yanwei , Yan Qingran , Chen Sheng
Published: September 2021

Background

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) are associated with a significantly higher risk of opportunistic infections including Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP), a potentially fatal opportunistic infection. However, no prior studies have evaluated PJP infection in subtypes of IIM.

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence and mortality rate of PJP infection in subgroups of IIM patients stratified according to myopathy-specific antibodies.

Methods

In the first part of the study, 463 consecutive patients with IIM were prospectively followed for a period of at least 1 year to analyze the incidence of PJP. In the second part of the study, we enrolled 30 consecutive PJP patients with any rheumatic disease in order to identify the mortality rate and risk factors by Cox regression analysis. The Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank testing was used to assess differences in survival.

Results

The prevalence of PJP in IIM patients was found to be 3.0/100 person-years, while in MDA5+ DM patients it was 7.5/100 person-years and in MDA5− IIM patients 0.7/100 person-years (P < 0.05). PJP typically occurred in the first 2 months in the case of MDA5+ DM patients who had a significant decrease in their CD4+ T cell counts and lymphocyte counts (P < 0.05). In PJP patients, 3-month mortality was higher for MDA5+ DM patients than in those with other rheumatic diseases (83.3% vs 38.9%, P < 0.05). Alarmingly, MDA5+ DM patients seemed not to benefit from prompt anti-PJP treatment, unlike patients with other rheumatic diseases whose survival improved when anti-PJP treatment was started within 6 days (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

PJP has an alarming high incidence and mortality in MDA5+ DM patients. Timely treatment for PJP seems not to improve the prognosis of patients with this particular subtype. Hence, there remains a crucial unmet need to develop PJP prophylaxis for MDA5+ DM patients.
Secukinumab in non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: subgroup analysis based on key baseline characteristics from a randomized phase III study, PREVENT
Authors: Braun Jürgen , Blanco Ricardo , Marzo-Ortega Helena , Gensler Lianne S. , van den Bosch Filip , Hall Stephen , Kameda Hideto , Poddubnyy Denis , van de Sande Marleen , Wiksten Anna S. , Porter Brian O. , Shete Abhijit , Richards Hanno B. , Haemmerle Sibylle , Deodhar Atul
Published: September 2021

Background

To investigate the efficacy of secukinumab in patients with active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) grouped by disease activity as assessed by C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scores, human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 status, and sex.

Methods

The phase III PREVENT study randomized (1:1:1) 555 patients to receive subcutaneous secukinumab 150 mg with (LD) or without (NL) loading dose or placebo weekly, followed by every 4 weeks starting at week 4. Here, we report the results of a post hoc analysis reporting the efficacy outcomes (pooled secukinumab) to 16 weeks by CRP, MRI, HLA-B27, and sex.

Results

Efficacy differences between the secukinumab and the placebo groups were highest in the CRP+, MRI+, HLA-B27+, and male subgroups, particularly for Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score-CRP inactive disease and Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) partial remission outcomes. ASAS40 response rates in the CRP+/MRI+ subgroup was 52.3% (secukinumab) versus 21.8% (placebo; P < 0.0001) at week 16. ASAS40 response rates (secukinumab versus placebo) were 43.9% versus 32.6% in HLA-B27+, 32.7% versus 16.4% in HLA-B27− subgroups, 51.2% versus 30.8% in male, and 31.7% versus 25.3% in female patients, respectively.

Conclusions

Secukinumab improved the signs and symptoms of nr-axSpA across patients grouped by CRP (+/−) and/or MRI (+/−) status, HLA-B27 (+/−) status, and sex. The highest treatment differences between secukinumab and placebo were observed in patients with both elevated CRP and evidence of sacroiliitis on MRI. Treatment difference was minimal between HLA-B27 (+) and (−) subgroups. Male patients had higher relative responses than female patients.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02696031. Registered on 02 March 2016
Effect of the uncoupling protein-2 (UCP-2) and nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 1 (NR3C1) genes on treatment efficacy and survival in patients with multiple myeloma: a single-center study
Authors: Demir Ilknur , Pehlivan Sacide , Okan Vahap , Sahin Handan Haydaroglu , Durusoy Salih Sertaç , Serin Istemi , Oyaci Yasemin , Pehlivan Mustafa
Published: September 2021

Objective

Studies on the genetic background of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) have been increasing; two important factors considered in such works are uncoupling protein-2 (UCP-2) and nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 1 (NR3C1). We aim to reveal the association of MM with NR3C1 and UCP-2 gene polymorphisms. In this prospective study, 200 patients diagnosed between January 2009 and 2018 and 200 healthy individuals were included. For patients who had undergone autologous stem cell transplantation and control subjects, we statistically compared the CC, GC, and GG genotypes and the C and G alleles of the NR3C1 gene, as well as the AA, AG, and GG genotypes and the A and G alleles of the UCP-2 gene.

Results

While the AA genotype was significantly more common in the MM group (p = 0.001), the GG genotype was significantly more common in the control group (p = 0.016). Overall survival was found to be significantly shorter in patients with the UCP-2 GG genotype (p = 0.034). It was also found that having the GG genotype of the UCP-2 gene was a 2.48-fold risk factor for mortality. The fact that overall survival is significantly shorter in MM patients with the UCP-2 GG genotype and its definition as a risk factor for mortality have been put forward for the first time in the literature.
Preservation of satellite cell number and regenerative potential with age reveals locomotory muscle bias
Authors: Arpke Robert W. , Shams Ahmed S. , Collins Brittany C. , Larson Alexie A. , Lu Nguyen , Lowe Dawn A. , Kyba Michael
Published: September 2021

Background

Although muscle regenerative capacity declines with age, the extent to which this is due to satellite cell-intrinsic changes vs. environmental changes has been controversial. The majority of aging studies have investigated hindlimb locomotory muscles, principally the tibialis anterior, in caged sedentary mice, where those muscles are abnormally under-exercised.

Methods

We analyze satellite cell numbers in 8 muscle groups representing locomotory and non-locomotory muscles in young and 2-year-old mice and perform transplantation assays of low numbers of hind limb satellite cells from young and old mice.

Results

We find that satellite cell density does not decline significantly by 2 years of age in most muscles, and one muscle, the masseter, shows a modest but statistically significant increase in satellite cell density with age. The tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus were clear exceptions, showing significant declines. We quantify self-renewal using a transplantation assay. Dose dilution revealed significant non-linearity in self-renewal above a very low threshold, suggestive of competition between satellite cells for space within the pool. Assaying within the linear range, i.e., transplanting fewer than 1000 cells, revealed no evidence of decline in cell-autonomous self-renewal or regenerative potential of 2-year-old murine satellite cells.

Conclusion

These data demonstrate the value of comparative muscle analysis as opposed to overreliance on locomotory muscles, which are not used physiologically in aging sedentary mice, and suggest that self-renewal impairment with age is precipitously acquired at the geriatric stage, rather than being gradual over time, as previously thought.
Greedy maximin distance sampling based model order reduction of prestressed and parametrized abdominal aortic aneurysms
Authors: Schein Alexander , Gee Michael W.
Published: September 2021

This work proposes a framework for projection-based model order reduction (MOR) of computational models aiming at a mechanical analysis of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). The underlying full-order model (FOM) is patient-specific, stationary and nonlinear. The quantities of interest are the von Mises stress and the von Mises strain field in the AAA wall, which result from loading the structure to the level of diastolic blood pressure at a fixed, imaged geometry (prestressing stage) and subsequent loading to the level of systolic blood pressure with associated deformation of the structure (deformation stage). Prestressing is performed with themodified updated Lagrangian formulation(MULF) approach. The proposed framework aims at a reduction of the computational cost in a many-query context resulting from model uncertainties in two material and one geometric parameter. We apply projection-based MOR to the MULF prestressing stage, which has not been presented to date. Additionally, we propose a reduced-order basis construction technique combining the concept of subspace angles and greedy maximin distance sampling. To further achieve computational speedup, the reduced-order model (ROM) is equipped with theenergy-conserving mesh sampling and weightinghyper reduction method. Accuracy of the ROM is numerically tested in terms of the quantities of interest within given bounds of the parameter domain and performance of the proposed ROM in the many-query context is demonstrated by comparing ROM and FOM statistics built from Monte Carlo sampling for three different patient-specific AAAs.
Parental mental illness and their offspring’s mental health in Rwanda: neuropsychiatric hospital of Rwanda
Authors: Rusengamihigo Donat , Mutabaruka Jean , Biracyaza Emmanuel , Magalakaki Olga , El’Husseini Mayssa
Published: September 2021

Background

Offspring of the parents with mental disorders are at higher risk to have the mental diseases throughout the world. This study examined the association between psychopathology of parents and the mental health of their offspring in Neuropsychiatric Hospital of Rwanda, Butare Branch.

Methods

A cross-sectional study made up of case and control offspring was conducted on the case group made up of 80 offspring born to parents with mental diseases and a control group of 80 offspring from parents without mental disease. Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD, α = 0.82), Posttraumatic stress disorders scale (PTSD, α = 0.73) and the Test of Psychological Problems (TPP, α = 0.93) were used. STATISTICA version 8 was used for statistical analysis.

Results

Results indicated a significance difference between the two groups on depressive symptoms, psychological problems and PTSD symptomatology. The case group seemed to experience high level symptoms than the control group. Results indicated that, among the offspring born to parents with mental disease, there was a significant correlation between anxiety and depression symptoms (r = 0.71,p < .001), PTSD and eating disorder (r = 0.75,p < .001), domestic violence and PTSD (r = 0.78,p < .001), aggressive behavior and PTSD (r = 0.79,p < .001), somatoform disorders and PTSD (r = 0.98,p < .001). No significant association between the low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, mental disorders induced drug abuse and PTSD was found.

Conclusion

Offspring of the parents with mental disorders had higher risk to develop mental diseases than the offspring born to the parents without mental diseases. Taking into account the assessment of parents’ mental illness when taking care of the offspring’s psychological disorders is needed in the neuropsychiatric hospital.
Global fashion retailers’ responses to external and internal crises during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kim Sanghee , Woo Hongjoo
Published: September 2021

During the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, the media reported different kinds of issues that global fashion retailers face. They had to unexpectedly dismiss garment workers and employees internally, while they had to perform CSR practices for their suffering communities externally. The purpose of this study is to investigate how global fashion retailers responded to these external and internal crises during the pandemic through a case study. Based on corporate social responsibility (CSR) contribution types and the Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT), various secondary sources which are related to three selected global fashion retailers’ (Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo) responses to external and internal crises during the pandemic are analyzed. The findings indicate that global fashion retailers showed some different approaches in their responses to external and internal crises during the pandemic. Externally, all of them practiced CSR by providing monetary and in-kind contributions to the society. However, toward the internal issues related to their factory workers and employees, some of them denied or diminished the problems that had been raised, while all of them attempted to make a deal with the parties who had been affected. The results of this study propose an agenda to discuss global fashion retailers’ responsibilities during the pandemic, as well as to inform fashion retailers of how leading retailers have responded to the crises.
Stability analysis for two-layered slopes by using the strength reduction method
Authors: Sarkar Sourav , Chakraborty Manash
Published: September 2021

The aim of this article is to present the slope stability charts for two layered soil slopes by using the strength reduction method (SRM). The primary focus is to provide a quantitative estimation of the improvement of slope stability when a stronger layer is placed over the weaker layer. The SRM carried in this work comprises a series of finite element lower bound (LB) and upper bound (UB) limit analysis in conjunction with nonlinear optimization. Unlike the limit equilibrium method (LEM), there is no need to consider any prior assumptions regarding the failure surface in SRM. The study is carried out for different combinations of (i) slope angles (β), (ii) strength properties of the top and the bottom layer (c, ϕ) and (iii) different thickness of the top layer. The failure patterns are shown for a few cases.
Numerical and experimental modeling of geomechanical behavior of partially saturated soils
Authors: Sadeghabadi Alireza , Noorzad Ali , Zad Amirali
Published: September 2021

The Barcelona Basic Model (BBM) has been implemented in a finite difference-based computer program to simulate the behavior of unsaturated soils subjected to wetting. The BBM implementation was verified using analytical solutions, and the proposed model has been used to simulate the response of a compacted embankment under complete saturation and suction induced conditions. Numerical analyses indicate that considerable amount of total and differential settlements could develop at the top surface of the embankment. BBM is executed into FLAC2D extending a defined module for modified Cam Clay (MCC) and has been set up an analytical solution for suction-dependent stress and strain. Evaluating the effect of anisotropy and nonlinear apparent tensile strength in unsaturated soils, a modification to BBM formulation has been proposed and optimized by developing numerical analyses to reduce the size of elastic region of loading collapse (LC) curve. Then, an experimental study in the literature is investigated by utilizing comparative curves from BBM and modified BBM indicating well agreement with natural circumstances. As a result of the work presented in this research, finite difference codes with BBM and modified BBM has the capability of simulating the real behavior and is operational being applied to problems associated with earthen structures in unsaturated or partially saturated of expansive soils as a three-phases medium.
Clinical progression of patients with COVID-19 in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Mbagwu JP. C. , Olajugba J. O. , James-Okoro Paula-Peace , Blessing Obidike
Published: September 2021

Background

The majority of COVID-19 research has been devoted to characterizing the epidemiology and early clinical aspects of the virus. In Lagos, Nigeria, we looked at the temporal progression of COVID-19 patients. We included 1337 confirmed COVID-19 cases in our study from February 27th to March 27th 2020. Of the 1337 patients enrolled, the median age was 50 years old, and 800 (59.83%) were male while 537 (40.16%) were female.

Method

In symptomatic patients, the time from the beginning of signs to admission was 4 (2–7) days. Fever occurred in 217 (16.2%) while cough occurred in 211(15.78%) patients respectively. Patients were given 5–6 treatment, including nutrition support, supplementary oxygen, and antiviral medicines (e.g., Remdesivir, dexamethasone) in a limited percentage of cases. The assessed median period of infection in all patients was 10 days after the start of symptoms (95 confidential intervals [CIs]: 8–11 days). The duration of fever was slightly longer in patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU) than in those who were not (31 days versus 9 days, respectively, P < 0.003).

Results

On day 7 after the onset of symptoms, radiological deterioration of the original picture was found in 500 (37.39%) patients. On day 13, 154 of these patients (94.5%) showed signs of radiological improvement. The average time it took for upper respiratory tract samples to test negative for reverse transcriptase PCR was 10 days (90 percent confidence interval: 10–12 days). Virus clearance was more significant in ICU patients than in non-ICU patients (P < 0.003).

Conclusions

Community members should continue to adhere to the recommended methods of preventing the spread of COVID-19 infection and patients should seek care early to reduce the risk of mortality associated with the infection as rapidly as possible.
Insect faunal succession on buried goat carcass in Aligarh Region of Uttar Pradesh, India, with implications in forensic entomology
Authors: Sharif Swaima , Qamar Ayesha
Published: September 2021

Background

Studies on the insect fauna of animal corpses, used as a vertebrate model, may help forensic investigation cases to estimate the post-mortem-interval (PMI), cause of death, and crime-scene location. Likewise, entomofauna of buried corpses can assist in determining the post-burial-interval (PBI), movement of the body or hiding of the crime. The bodies buried under the soil decompose at a slower rate than the body exposed. Also, there are fewer insects that can go underground to locate the corpse. Such types of studies on the insect fauna of buried carrion can help in forensic investigation cases. The current study aims to determine the succession of a goat carcass buried shallowly in an outdoor habitat of the Aligarh Region, North India.

Results

In the present study, we examined a goat carcass buried at a depth of nine inches to determine the type of insects capable of colonizing buried animal carcass in the study area of Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India. We have found five species of Diptera, three species of Coleoptera, one Hemipteran species, and one Hymenopteran species. Adult Dipterans found during different samplings were Megaselia scalaris (Loew 1866), Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius 1794), and Calliphora vicina (Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830). Dipterans’ immature stages were found to be of Synthesiomyia nudiseta (van der Wulp, 1883) and Hydrotaea capensis (Wiedemann, 1830) Megaselia scalaris. Adults of Saprinus quadriguttatus (Fabricius, 1798), Saprinus splendens (Paykull, 1811), and Onthophagous quadridentatus (Fabricius, 1798) of order Coleoptera. Adult Cydnus species (Fabricius, 1803) of Hemiptera and Dorylus species (Fabricius, 1793) of Hymenoptera have also been recorded. During the sampling, the authors reported the stages of carcass disintegration and the insects associated with it.

Conclusions

Flies, beetles, and ants have been recorded in association with the buried goat carcass, which may add to the knowledge of colonization of buried bodies in India and around the globe. S. nudiseta, H. capensis, and M. scalaris, which are found on the goat carrion in the current study, have also been reported on human corpses in the past. Furthermore, M. scalaris found consistently on two sampling dates beneath the ground on the goat carcass and was also seen running on the grave’s surface. In addition, authors have reported several species belonging to different order and families, corresponding to various stages of decomposition of corpse which were earlier not known from buried corpses from India. So, it is crucial and may have implications in medicolegal cases.
Cannabis against chronic musculoskeletal pain: a scoping review on users and their perceptions
Authors: Furrer Daniela , Kröger Edeltraut , Marcotte Martine , Jauvin Nathalie , Bélanger Richard , Ware Mark , Foldes-Busque Guillaume , Aubin Michèle , Pluye Pierre , Dionne Clermont E.
Published: September 2021

Background

Chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) may lead to reduced physical function and is the most common cause of chronic non-cancer pain. Currently, the pharmacotherapeutic options against CMP are limited and frequently consist of pain management with non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, gabapentinoids, or opioids, which carry major adverse effects. Although the effectiveness of medical cannabis (MC) for CMP still lacks solid evidence, several patients suffering from it are exploring this therapeutic option with their physicians.

Objectives

Little is known about patients’ perceptions of their MC treatment for CMP. We aimed to increase this knowledge, useful for healthcare professionals and patients considering this treatment, by conducting a scoping literature review, following guidance by Arksey and O’Malley, to describe the views and perceptions of adult patients who had consumed MC to relieve chronic CMP.

Methods

Databases (PUBMED, EMBASE, Web of Science) and websites were searched using combinations of controlled and free vocabulary. All studies and study designs reporting on patients’ perceptions regarding MC against CMP were considered. Studies had to include adult patients reporting qualitatively or quantitatively, i.e., through questionnaires, on MC use to treat CMP or other non-cancer pain, since studies reporting exclusively on perceptions regarding CMP were very rare. Study characteristics were extracted and limitations of the study quality were assessed. The review includes patients’ demographic characteristics, patterns of MC use, perceived positive and negative effects, use of alcohol or other drugs, reported barriers to CM use, and funding sources of the studies.

Results

Participants of the 49 included studies reported that MC use helped them to reduce CMP and other chronic non-cancer pain, with only minor adverse effects, and some reported improved psychological well-being.

In the included studies, men represent between 18 and 88% of the subjects. The mean age of participants in these studies (42/49) varied between 28.4 and 62.8 years old. The most common route of administration is inhalation.

Conclusion

MC users suffering from CMP or other chronic non-cancer pain perceived more benefits than harms. However, the information from these studies has several methodological limitations and results are exploratory. These user-reported experiences must thus be examined by well-designed and methodologically sound clinical or observational studies, particularly regarding CMP, where reports are very scarce.
PFAS and Potential Adverse Effects on Bone and Adipose Tissue Through Interactions With PPARγ
Authors: Kirk Andrea B , Michelsen-Correa Stephani , Rosen Cliff , Martin Clyde F , Blumberg Bruce
Published: September 2021

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a widely dispersed, broad class of synthetic chemicals with diverse biological effects, including effects on adipose and bone differentiation. PFAS most commonly occur as mixtures and only rarely, if ever, as single environmental contaminants. This poses significant regulatory questions and a pronounced need for chemical risk assessments, analytical methods, and technological solutions to reduce the risk to public and environmental health. The effects of PFAS on biological systems may be complex. Each may have several molecular targets initiating multiple biochemical events leading to a number of different adverse outcomes. An exposure to mixtures or coexposures of PFAS complicates the picture further. This review illustrates how PFAS target peroxisome proliferator–activated receptors. Additionally, we describe how such activation leads to changes in cell differentiation and bone development that contributes to metabolic disorder and bone weakness. This discussion sheds light on the importance of seemingly modest outcomes observed in test animals and highlights why the most sensitive end points identified in some chemical risk assessments are significant from a public health perspective.
Empennage sizing with the tail volume complemented with a method for dorsal fin layout
Authors: SCHOLZ Dieter
Published: September 2021

Purpose: Provide good values for the tail volume coefficient and the lever arm as a percentage of the fuselage length. Provide a statistical method for dorsal fin layout. – Methodology: Based on an understanding of flight physics, the statistical correlation of real aircraft parameters is investigated. This is based on the firm conviction that high fidelity parameters for future aircraft need a checked against parameters of existing successful aircraft. – Findings: Typical tail volume coefficients are between 0.5 and 1.0 for the horizontal tail and between 0.03 and 0.08 for the vertical tail depending on aircraft category. Empennage statistics have clear trends. The often weak correlation shows that aircraft design allows for sufficient designer's choice. Only a minority of aircraft feature a dorsal fin. Designers see it as an added surface rather than as part of the vertical tail. It is used to limit the hypothetical risk of vertical tail stall due to high sideslip angles. – Research Limitations: Results obtained from statistics are close to reality, but not a proof to fulfill requirements. – Practical Implications: Methods from the paper can be used for quick initial sizing of a vertical tail with or without dorsal fin or sizing of a horizontal tail. These results can also be used as good starting values for optimization tools in aircraft design. – Originality: Estimation of the tail lever arm is necessary for sizing with the tail volume coefficient, but had not been investigated to any detail. A method for the layout of dorsal fins was missing.
Quadrotor Controller Design Techniques and Applications Review
Authors: SHAUQEE Mohamad Norherman , RAJENDRAN Parvathy , SUHADIS Nurulasikin Mohd
Published: September 2021

Rotor-craft style UAV, such as the quadrotor, has become increasingly popular with researchers due to its advantages over fixed-wing UAV. The quadrotor is highly maneuverable, can perform vertical take-off and landing (VTOL), and can hover flight capability. Nevertheless, handling the quadrotor complex, highly nonlinear dynamics is difficult and challenging. A suitable control system is needed to control the quadrotor system effectively. Therefore, this paper presents a review of different controller design techniques used by researchers over the past years for the quadrotor rotational and translational stabilization control. Three categories are discussed: linear controller, nonlinear controller, and intelligent controller. Based on their performance specifications, the system rise time, settling time, overshoot, and steady-state error are discussed. Finally, a comparative analysis is tabulated, summarizing the literature in the performance specifications described above.
Machining force comparison for surface defect hard turning and conventional hard turning of AISI 52100 steel
Authors: MAMAHESWARRAO P. U , RANGARAJU D. , SUMAN K. N. S. , RAVISANKAR B.
Published: September 2021

In this article, a recently developed method called surface defect machining (SDM) for hard turning has been adopted and termed surface defect hard turning (SDHT). The main purpose of the present study was to explore the impact of cutting parameters like cutting speed, feed, depth of cut, and tool geometry parameters such as nose radius and negative rake angle of the machining force during surface defect hard turning (SDHT) of AISI 52100 steel in dry condition with Polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PCBN) tool; and results were compared with conventional hard turning (CHT). Experimentation is devised and executed as per Central Composite Design (CCD) of Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Results reported that an average machining force was decreased by 22% for surface defect hard turning (SDHT) compared to conventional hard turning (CHT).
Effect of camber on the flutter characteristics of different selected airfoils
Authors: VIHAR R. Sabari , JEYAN J. V. Muruga Lal , PRIYANKA K. Sai
Published: September 2021

Flutter is the phenomenon where the body will experience uncontrolled motions after reaching a certain velocity known as the critical velocity. The focus of this work is on studying the influence of position of camber of an airfoil on its flutter behaviour. Four different NACA five digit airfoils were selected based on the variation in position of camber and were analyzed at different air speeds. These airfoils were studied for their pitch and plunge behaviour which are the base for understanding the flutter characteristics of any body and the flutter characteristics are derived from those results.
Global trends in aviation – new research directions
Authors: DOBRE Claudia
Published: September 2021

For more than two decades, the aviation world is revolving around one idea: reducing the impact on the environment. Although each action taken now, each strategy, each programme make reference to the decisions taken within the United Nation Conference on Climate Change, in Paris, in 2015, aviation community has recognized the environment and the climate change as a major challenge for aeronautics and air transport since the publication of Vision 2020 (European Commission, [1]) in January 2001. This document set the agenda for the European aeronautics ambition to better serve society’s need and all the Strategic Research Agendas that followed – SRA1 (published in October 2002), SRA 2 (published in October 2004), 2008 Addendum to the SRA and the more recently Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 they all are addressing the “Challenge of environment” in SRA 1 and SRA 2 or in SRIA 1 and 2 identifying one of the big five challenges to 2050 – “Protecting the environment and the energy supply”. The concern for protecting the environment is not new, the only.
SIA Quality Management System’ Manual
Authors: KALMUTCHI Peter
Published: September 2021

The safety investigation agency is a modern concept introduced in the transportation branch by ICAO, since Annex 13 to the Chicago Convention requires a separate safety investigation to be conducted by a Member State in case of serious occurrences, accidents and incidents, the main purpose being preventing future similar occurrences and increasing the safety level of the air operations. Such a body is subject to various tasks and limitations supporting the achievement of its targets, it is not a manufacturer or service supplier and it is not similar to other kind of governmental agencies. This paper should provide a model to develop guidance on QMS applied to the very specific case of a civil aviation safety investigation agency.
Less Known Results on the Solar System
Authors: DUMITRESCU Horia , CARDOS Vladimir , BOGATEANU Radu
Published: September 2021

For a two half millennium evolution of knowledge from the Democrit’s natural, rational atomized material conception to the Newtonian, Maxwellian, Einsteinian mathematized physics, the research in the most cases has followed a deductive route from observable facts/reality according to the Mach’s rigorous positivism principle. During the last century both experimental and computational technology progress has accumulated a solid factual datum support on the better knowledge of our actual world, so that the research is beginning on inductive route of the hidden/dark detailed processes as a whole. This revolutionary stage of physics, based on a holistic integral approach, is concerned with the relativity-gravity evolution in a quantifiable space-time universe created after the morphogenetic light explosion (or the 4D-BIG BANG). The paper presented herein contains some less known aspects on the work of solar system as a whole, along with the specific activity of the Earth-planet as a part integrated into the solar complex.
Free-Piston Engine Design and Evaluation with Different Compression Ratios
Authors: KIRUBADURAI B. , JEGADEESWARI G. , KANAGARAJA K.
Published: September 2021

Free-piston heat engines are being examined by a number of international research groups as an option for conservative technology, as they are not limited by the movement of the crankshaft as in conventional engines. The free-piston engines are employed in applications like power generation using conventional methods. The higher compression ratios provide higher cycle efficiencies and also boost in-cylinder temperatures increasing mechanical stress, pressures, and heat transfer losses. This paper presents different in-cylinder flows by computational fluid dynamics for various compression ratios ranges from 7 to 15 and estimates were made to find best compression ratio for the optimal engine operating performance and characteristic.
Bodies on the line: how telepsychology brought about new relationalities between therapists and their clients during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Downing Leanne
Published: September 2021

This article explores a series of psychosocial and embodied relationalities that emerged between registered solo-practice psychologists and their clients during the COVID-19 social lockdowns that took place in Australia between June and August 2020. Drawing on findings from a larger qualitative research project into Australian psychologists’ experiences of maintaining therapeutic relationships via teleconferencing technologies during the pandemic, I explore the ways in which the relational and embodied experiences of taking therapy online resulted in new ways of working with clients over digital media interfaces such as Zoom, Skype and Facetime. Central to this discussion is an exploration of the ways in which embodied attunement, fears of risk and contagion, and concerns around trust and privacy were negotiated to create new, ‘more-than-human’ relationships between therapists, clients and the spaces and technologies that brought them together.
Assessing adherence to guidelines of media reporting on suicide based on the Precaution Adoption Process Model and Agenda-Setting Theory
Authors: Yang Lai Fong , Victor Justin
Published: September 2021

The World Health Organization named suicide prevention a global imperative with the media playing an integral role in it. By employing the Precaution Adoption Process Model (PAPM) and Agenda-Setting Theory as the theoretical framework, this study aimed to examine the coverage on suicide by The Star, which is an English-language daily with the largest circulation in Malaysia. A five-year (2014–18) range of news coverage was assessed for its adherence to the Malaysian guidelines for media reporting on suicide. The findings showed that the coverage on suicide by The Star was mostly in the form of straight news, whereby articles performed the disseminator role of news media providing facts or quote sources, without including journalists’ interpretation on the suicide incidents. The most common source quoted in the coverage were authorities such as police and government officials. The overall adherence of The Star’s suicide coverage with Malaysian guidelines for media reporting on suicide was mixed. Adherence was adequate (>60 per cent) on some items of the guidelines but extremely low (<18 per cent) for other specific recommendations. The practical implications of the findings are discussed with regard to the implementation and monitoring of media guidelines for suicide reporting, as well as professional education and training of journalists and media–mental health professionals liaison.
Screening of in vitro antimicrobial effects of Helicteres isora extract against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Sirimongkolvorakul Sunisa , Jasancheun Anusorn
Published: September 2021

Background and Aim: Staphylococcus aureus is an important pathogen causing contagious mastitis in cows that need novel treatment rather than antibiotic therapy. This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial activity of Helicteres isora extracts against S. aureus isolated from subclinical and clinical mastitis cows using an in vitro model.

Materials and Methods: H. isora pods were extracted using the following solvents: Distilled water, ethanol, acetone, and methanol. The antimicrobial activity of each extract was determined by the disk diffusion method and broth microdilution assay to assess the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC).

Results: The ethanolic extract of H. isora exhibited the largest inhibition zones against S. aureus (31.05±1.20 mm), followed by the aqueous, methanolic, and acetone extracts, respectively (26.34±1.15, 24.23±0.50, and 22.46±1.53). The ethanolic extract also had a strong inhibitory effect on S. aureus, with MIC and MBC of 0.13 and 0.52 mg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion: This study revealed that H. isora is a potential alternative natural antibacterial agent against S. aureus infection. The antimicrobial activity of H. isora is most likely mediated by phytochemical constituents.