bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis Care Continuum Among Individuals Receiving Medication for Opioid Use Disorder, South Carolina, 2020–2021
Authors: Johnson Jamila , Gormley Mirinda Ann , Bentley Susanne , Baldwin Carrie , Bublitz Michelle , Heavner Smith F. , Roth Prerana , Litwin Alain H.
Published: December 2021

We implemented the HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care continuum among individuals receiving medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). We screened HIV-negative MOUD participants for PrEP eligibility by assessing injection drug use risk factors and sexual behaviors. Implementation of the PrEP care continuum was challenging; less than a third of MOUD participants were aware of PrEP, and very few initiated PrEP. Findings should promote the development of effective interventions to increase engagement in PrEP during MOUD treatment. (Am J Public Health. 2022;112(1):34–37. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2021.306566 )
Deviation in the Age Structure of Mortality as an Indicator of COVID-19 Pandemic Severity
Authors: Chandra Siddharth , Chandra Madhur
Published: December 2021

Objectives. To test whether distortions in the age distribution of deaths can track pandemic activity.

Methods. We compared weekly distributions of all-cause deaths by age during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States from March to December 2020 with corresponding prepandemic weekly baseline distributions derived from data for 2015 to 2019. We measured distortions via Kolmogorov–Smirnov (K-S) and χ2 goodness-of-fit statistics as well as deaths among individuals aged 65 years or older as a percentage of total deaths (PERC65+). We computed bivariate correlations between these measures and the number of recorded COVID-19 deaths for the corresponding weeks.

Results. Elevated COVID-19-associated fatalities were accompanied by greater distortions in the age structure of mortality. Distortions in the age distribution of weekly US COVID-19 deaths in 2020 relative to earlier years were highly correlated with COVID fatalities (K-S: r = 0.71, P < .001; χ2: r = 0.90, P < .001; PERC65+: r = 0.85, P < .001).

Conclusions. A population-representative sample of age-at-death data can serve as a useful means of pandemic activity surveillance when precise cause-of-death data are incomplete, inaccurate, or unavailable, as is often the case in low-resource environments. (Am J Public Health. 2022;112(1):165–168. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2021.306567 )
Split Transfer of Tibialis Posterior Tendon After Failed Tibialis Anterior Transfer for Recurrent Bilateral Clubfeet
Authors: Megremis Panos K. , Megremis Orestis P.
Published: December 2021

Case:

We describe the split transfer of tibialis posterior tendon to the tendon stump of tibialis anterior and distal end of peroneus brevis after a failed transfer of tibialis anterior to the lateral aspect of the foot for recurrent bilateral clubfeet at the age of 5 years. The purpose of this surgical technique was to restore the dynamic balance of foot inversion-eversion, during the gait cycle, by augmenting the muscular strength of peroneus brevis and tibialis anterior. The results of the 4-year follow-up were very encouraging.

Conclusion:

We recommend this technique for a failed tendon transfer of the tibialis anterior for recurrent clubfeet.
Removal of a Broken Stainless-Steel Intramedullary Lengthening Stryde Nail
Authors: Abalkhail Talal B. , McClure Philip K.
Published: December 2021

Case:

We report a 15-year-old female patient who underwent femur lengthening with a stainless steel intramedullary lengthening Stryde nail that broke at the end of the lengthening course and required removal. Given the solid noncannulated nature of the nail, this required special strategy to remove broken parts.

Conclusion:

Stryde nails are stainless steel lengthening nails that were developed to allow more freedom with weight bearing. Regardless of this change, hardware failure remains possible. In addition to maintaining regenerate integrity, a surgeon must be creative when attempting to remove solid nail types because many techniques for removing failed hardware were developed for cannulated devices.
Uso de biofertilizantes para una producción más rentable y sustentable de caña de azúcar en México
Authors: Medina Morales Paula
Published: December 2021

El actual modelo de producción agrícola, herencia de la llamada `revolución verde´ que tuvo lugar durante la segunda mitad del Siglo XX, es un modelo que muestra claros síntomas de agotamiento, debido a que es un modelo caro, ineficiente y altamente contaminante. Dicho modelo permitió el incremento de la producción agrícola, pero con un alto costo ecológico, ya que los agroquímicos utilizados, en particular los fertilizantes, son muy ineficientes y altamente contaminantes. En la búsqueda de alternativas que puedan dar respuesta a los retos que enfrenta la producción agrícola, en los últimos años se han desarrollado soluciones biológicas utilizando la agrobiotecnología. Un ejemplo de estos desarrollos son los biofertilizantes, cuya base es el uso de microorganismos vivos para la nutrición y desarrollo de los cultivos, así como el mejoramiento de la fertilidad de los suelos.La empresa mexicana, Biofábrica Siglo XXI, lleva dos décadas desarrollando alternativas agro biotecnológicas para promover un sistema de producción agrícola más eficiente y ecológico. En la caña de azúcar han logrado: 1) incrementar productividad; 2) aumentar utilidad del productor; 3) reducir hasta 75% la aplicación de fertilizantes químicos; 4) mejorar la vida microbiana del suelo; 5) aumentar el desarrollo radicular; 6) mayor captura de carbono.
A comprehensive BIAPSS platform for the physicochemical featurization of phase separating proteins
Authors: Uversky Vladimir , Badaczewska-Dawid Aleksandra , Potoyan Davit
Published: December 2021

The liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of biological macromolecules has emerged as a foundational mechanism underlying the formation of a myriad of membraneless organelles (MLOs), such as stress granules, transcription factor condensates, and chromatin compartments. A molecular grammar of sequences, which would enable a quantitative prediction and understanding of protein phase separation from first principles is currently missing. A major challenge in the field is the sparsity of bioinformatics data and the lack of computational, data-driven tools for biophysical and statistical analysis of proteins capable of phase separation. Here we present the utility of web applications framed within a novel open-source platform for BioInformatic Analysis of liquid-liquid Phase-Separating protein Sequences, https://biapss.chem.iastate.edu/. BIAPSS combines high-throughput interactive data analytics of physicochemical and evolutionary features with a comprehensive repository of bioinformatic data for on-the-fly research of the sequence-dependent properties of proteins with known LLPS behavior. To facilitate exploration of the services and provide the interpretation guideline, we present two attention-getting case studies of FUS and hnRNPDL. This should help the LLPS community uncover the nature of interactions driving the formation of membraneless organelles.
Racial and Geographical Disparities in Colorectal Cancer Incidence in Mississippi, 2003-2018
Authors: McKay Sasha , Meliker Jaymie
Published: December 2021

Purpose: The aim of this study is to investigate racial and geographical disparities of colorectal cancer incidence in Mississippi. Methods: Incidence data from 2003-2018 were obtained at the county-level from the Mississippi Cancer Registry. Incidence rate difference and 95% confidence intervals between age-adjusted colorectal cancer incidence for whites and blacks were calculated and mapped using ArcGIS. Results: The black incidence rate for colorectal cancer was 59.8 per 100,000 while the white incidence rate was 48.9 per 100,000. Blacks experienced significantly higher incidence rates than whites in 39 counties throughout much of Mississippi. These areas of higher racial disparities did not cluster in a specific region of the state. In the southern part of the state an 8-county cold-spot region was detected without racial disparities; incidence rate for blacks was 41.3 per 100,000 in this region. Conclusions: There are racial disparities throughout Mississippi except for an 8-county region towards the southern part of the state. Additional research should be conducted to identify what factors are responsible for the lower incidence rates among blacks in this region, and to implement effective interventions statewide to reduce racial disparities in colorectal cancer incidence.
Predictors of Underweight among Children Under-five in Ethiopia
Authors: Desta Gebremedhin , Mamuye Natnael , Kulandairaj Martin Sagayam , Bitew Denekew , Mekonnen Bezarede , Mazro Roy Rillera , Enbeyle Wegayehu
Published: December 2021

9013 under-five children were included for study. Descriptive Statistics and POM were employed identify socio-economic, demographic, and proximate factors of underweight to children among regions of Ethiopia. SAS version 9.4 was used. About 25.3% of children in Ethiopia were underweighted. POM showed that sex, residence, size at birth, age group, incidence of diarrhea, educational level, breastfeeding status, mothers’ employment status, and birth order were found to be significant factors of underweight. Improvement of education for caring child in appropriate age needed. Personal hygiene be improved to prevent exposures to diarrhea and environmental sanitation.
Long-Range White Matter Microstructural Alterations in Drug-Naive Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Tract-Based Spatial Statistics Study
Authors: Zhou Ronghui , Dong Peng , Chen Shuangli , Qian Andan , Tao Jiejie , Zheng Xiangwu , Cheng Jingliang , Yang Chuang , Huang Xiaoqi , Wang Meihao
Published: December 2021

Background
Microstructural changes might underlie white matter (WM) pathology in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). To investigate WM alterations, particularly the changes in long-range fibers, in drug-naive children with ADHD, we conducted tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) analysis on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data.
Materials and Methods
In this study, 57 children with ADHD and 41 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. None of the enrolled ADHD children received any medication before data collection. The difference in fractional anisotropy (FA), and in mean (MD), axial (AD), and radial diffusivity (RD) between both groups were calculated using TBSS. WM changes were then correlated with clinical symptoms, including the hyperactivity index score and the impulsivity score.
Results
Whole-skeleton analysis identified several long-range fibers of decreased FA and increased RD in the ADHD group as compared to the HC group. ADHD children demonstrated decreased FA in the right corpus callosum (CC) splenium, left inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, and intersection of the anterior and posterior internal capsule. Moreover, higher RD was observed in the right CC splenium, superior longitudinal fasciculus, and posterior corona radiata. No regions of increased FA or reduced RD were observed, and no differences in MD or AD were noted.
Conclusion
Our results demonstrate that microstructural WM alterations and changes in the long-range WM connections are present in children with ADHD. We speculate that these changes may relate to the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Thermal and Mechanical Analyses of Dry Clutch Disk made of Functionally Graded Material.
Authors: Ali Ibrahim Ahmed Ibrahim , Asiri Saeed
Published: December 2021

This paper presents an innovative utility of Functionally Graded Aluminum Matrix Composite (FGAMC) with Silicon Carbide as a friction material in clutches since having an acceptable friction coefficient and high wear resistance. FGAMC’s properties were calculated using rule-of-mixture and power law, represented by layered geometry. FGAMC’s behavior is examined considering statics, dynamics, thermal and wear. Analyses were done using Finite Element method, by ANSYS. Results are discussed by comparing FGAMC’s clutch to Aluminum matrix composite with 20% of Silicon Carbide clutch and E-glass clutch. Clutches design based on the common size and working conditions of clutches in mid-size and heavy automobiles. Most analyses revels FGAMC’s clutch has higher strain than AMC’s clutch with less deformation in thickness direction and less stresses. FGAMC’s clutch has higher mass leading to lower first natural frequency but with low resulted deformations. Transient analyses showed 10 times fewer maximum deformations for FGAMC’s clutch than AMC and E-glass with lower strains and higher stress but in much less area for FGAMC’s clutch. Wear which indicates working life of a clutch, have been studied using Archard Wear Equation in ANSYS, FGAMC’s clutch has 10 times lower wear with much less affected area compared to AMC and E-glass. Thermal analysis results of the three clutches are close to each other with 0.07 watts between FGAMC’s and AMC’s clutches, and 0.03 watts between FGAMC’s and E-Glass’s clutches.
Experimental and Theoretical Study For Removal of Trimethoprim (TMP) From Wastewater Using Organically Modified Silica With Pyrazole-3-Carbaldehyde Bridged To Copper Ions
Authors: Jodeh Shehdeh , Jaber Ahlam , Hanbali Ghadir , Massad Younes , Safi Zaki S. , Radi Smaail , Mehmeti Valbon , Berisha Avni , Tighadouini Said , Dagdag Omar
Published: December 2021

BackgroundHuman and veterinary antibiotics are typically discharged as parent chemicals in urine or feces and are known to be released into the environment via wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Several research investigations have recently been conducted on the removal and bioremediation of pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs) disposed in wastewater. ResultsSiNP-Cu, a chelating matrix, was produced by delaying and slowing 1.5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carbaldehyde on silica gel from functionalized with 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane. The prepared sorbent material was characterized using several techniques including BET surface area, FT-IR spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherm. The pseudo-second-order model provided the best correlation due to the big match between the experimental and theoretical of different adsorption coefficients. The Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models were used and the study showed better match with Fruendlich model. The removal capacity was depending on pH and increased by increasing pH The adsorbent demonstrated a high percentage removal of TMP, reaching more than 94 %. The sample was simply regenerated by soaking it for a few minutes in 1N HCl and drying it. The sorbent was repeated five times with no discernible decrease in removal capacity. Thermodynamic study also showed endothermic, increasing randomness and not spontaneous in nature. The findings of the DFT B3LYP/6-31+g (d,p) local reactivity descriptors revealed that nitrogen atoms and p-electrons of the benzene and pyrimidine rings in the TMP are responsible for the adsorption process with the SiNP surface. The negative values of the adsorption energies obtained by molecular dynamic simulation indicated the spontaneity of the adsorption process. ConclusionThe global reactivity indics prove that TMP is stable and it can be removed from wastewater using SiNP surface. The results of the local reactivity indices concluded that the active centers for the adsorption process are the nitrogen atoms and the p-electrons of the pyrimidine and benzene rings. Furthermore, the positive value of the maximum charge transfer number (DN) proves that TMP has a great tendency to donate electrons to SiNP surface during the process of adsorption.
Psychometric Properties of The 26-Item Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26): An Application of Rasch Analysis
Authors: Papini Natalie M. , Jung Myungjin , Cook Amanda , Lopez Nanette V , Ptomey Lauren T , Herrmann Stephen D , Kang Minsoo
Published: December 2021

Background: The 26-item Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) is a commonly used tool to assess eating disorder risk. The purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the EAT-26 with a sample of adults (n=469; age=36.17±17.83 years; female =72.5%; white=66.3%; obese BMI category=58%).Methods: Rasch analysis of the EAT-26 assessed model-data fit, an item-person map to evaluate relative distribution items and persons, item difficulty, and person’s eating disorder (ED) risk level, differential item functioning (DIF), and rating scale functioning. Results: A total of 7 misfit items were removed from the final analysis due to unacceptable Infit and Outfit mean square residual values. The item-person map showed that the items were biased toward participants with moderate to high levels of ED risk and did not cover those who had low risk for having an ED (< -1 logits). The DIF analyses results showed that none of the items functioned differently across sex, but 5 items were flagged based on obesity status. The six-category Likert-type rating scale did not function well indicating a different response format may be needed.Conclusion: Several concerns were identified with the psychometric evaluation of the EAT-26 that may question its utility in assessing ED risk. Because the EAT-26 is a frequently used screening tool for nonclinical populations, future work should focus on developing screening tools that are more effective at assessing ED risk in people with overweight and obesity.
Arab and Jewish Mothers' Decisions Regarding Treatment of their Children with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Sheeny Amal Shehadeh , Goldblatt Hadass , Baron-Epel Orna
Published: December 2021

Background: The use of medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) differs globally, depending on ethnic group. In Israel, the prevalence of stimulant prescriptions for ADHD among Jewish children is four times higher than among Arab children. Ethnical differences may affect parents’ perceptions and attitudes towards diagnosing and treating ADHD. Therefore, it is important to identify differences in attitudes and beliefs towards diagnosis and treatment of ADHD among Arab and Jewish mothers and teachers, in order to understand what affects the mothers’ decision whether to medicate their child diagnosed with ADHD.Methods: A qualitative study including 23 in-depth interviews with mothers of children diagnosed with ADHD and 12 teachers (Arabs and Jews) from elementary schools in Northern Israel. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis.Results: Data analysis revealed four themes, emphasizing the way mothers and teachers perceive ADHD differently in the two ethnic groups: (1) The degree of ADHD medicalization differed between the ethnic groups. Jewish mothers and teachers tended to perceive ADHD more as a medical problem, while Arab mothers and teachers perceived it more as a childhood social behavior; (2) Arab mothers reported guilt feelings in relation to ADHD diagnosis and treatment, whereas Jewish mothers felt sympathy and understanding towards their child; (3) Among Arab mothers, the social environment is a stronger influence than among Jewish mothers; and (4) Stigmatization was reported only by Arab mothers. Conclusions: Our study suggests that there are ethnical differences in the perception of ADHD that may explain the differences in its prevalence and treatment.
Remarkable piezoelectric properties in thin films of cellulose nanofibers after electrochemical poling
Authors: Sultana Ayesha , Alam Md. Mehebub , Pavlopoulou Eleni , Solano Eduardo , Berggren Magnus , Crispin Xavier , Zhao Dan
Published: December 2021

Internet-of-everything (IoE) is defined as networked connections of things, people, data and processes. IoE nodes, preferably shaped as printed flexible systems, serves as the frontier outpost of the Internet and comprises devices to record and regulate states and functions. To power distributed IoE nodes in an ecofriendly manner, technology to scavenge energy from ambience and self-powered devices are developed. For this, piezoelectricity is regarded as a key-property, however current technology typically based on polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) co-polymers, are expensive and produced via toxic protocols. We report piezoelectric characteristics of electrochemically poled cellulose nanofiber (CNFs) thin films processed from water dispersions. Poling these films at humid conditions cause breaking and reorientation of CNF segments, which results in enhanced crystal alignment rendering the resulting material piezoelectric. Generators based on poled CNF show similar piezoelectric voltage and coefficient, here measured to d33 = 46 pm/V, as for devices including PVDF copolymer layers of similar thickness. Our findings promise for low cost and printable ecofriendly piezoelectric-powered IoE nodes.
Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Key Role of Histone Deacetylation-mediated Phytohormones Interaction in Fiber Initiation of Cotton
Authors: Wei Zhenzhen , Li Yonghui , Ali Faiza , Wang Ye , Liu Jisheng , Yang Zuoren , Li Fuguang , Wang Zhi
Published: December 2021

Background: Histone deacetylation is one of the most important epigenetic modifications and plays diverse roles in plant development. However, the detailed functions and mechanisms of histone deacetylation in fiber development of cotton are still unclear. HDAC inhibitors (HDACi) have been used commonly to study the molecular mechanism underlying histone deacetylation or to facilitate disease therapy in humans through hindering the histone deacetylase catalytic activity. Trichostatin A (TSA) - the most widely used HDACi has been used to determine the role of histone deacetylation on different developmental stages of plants. Results: Here, exogenous TSA was applied in the fiber initiation and elongation in vitro, and the results demonstrated the crucial role of histone deacetylation in fiber initiation regulation. Therefore, we made a transcriptomic analysis to reveal the underlying mechanisms. Through RNA-Seq analysis, the differentially expressed genes were mostly enriched in plant hormone signal transduction,phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, photosynthesis, and carbon metabolism pathways, suggesting the potential role of phytohormone, phenylpropanoid metabolism, and energy metabolism downstream of histone deacetylation in fiber initiation. The phytohormone signal transduction pathways harbor the most differentially expressed genes. Deeper studies showed that some genes promoting auxin, Gibberellic Acid (GA), and Salicylic Acid (SA) signaling were down-regulated, while some genes facilitating Abscisic Acid (ABA) and inhibiting Jasmonic Acid (JA) singling were up-regulated after the TSA treatments. Conclusions: Collectively, we established a model, in which histone deacetylation can regulate some key genes involved in different phytohormone pathways, consequently, promoting the auxin, GA, JA and SA signaling, whereas, repressing the ABA signaling to improve the fiber cell initiation; besides that the genes associated with energy metabolism, phenylpropanoid, and glutathione metabolism were also involved in. The above results provided novel clues to illuminate the underlying mechanisms of epigenetic modifications as well as interactions of different phytohormones in fiber cell differentiation, which is also very valuable for molecular breeding of higher quality cotton.
Short Term Exposure to Air Pollution and Mortality in the US: A Case-Crossover Analysis
Authors: Liu Rongqi , Wei Yaguang , Qiu Xinye , Kosheleva Anna , Schwartz Joel D.
Published: December 2021

Background: Studies examining the association of short-term air pollution exposure and daily deaths have typically been limited to cities and used citywide averages for exposure. This study aims to estimate the associations between short-term exposures to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), ozone (O3), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and all-cause and cause-specific mortality in multiple US states including rural areas.Methods: We conducted a time-stratified case-crossover study examining the entire population of seven US states from 2000-2015, with over 3 million non-accidental deaths. Daily predictions of PM2.5, O3, and NO2 at 1x1 km grid cells across the contiguous US were linked to mortality based on census track and residential address. For each pollutant, we used conditional logistic regression to quantify the association between exposure and the relative risk of mortality conditioning on meteorological variables and other pollutants. Results: A 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 exposure at the moving average of lag 0-1 day and 10 ppb increase in NO2 exposure at lag 0-3 day were significantly associated with a 0.67% (95%CI: 0.34-1.01%) and 0.20% (95%CI: 0.00-0.39%) increase in the risk of all-cause mortality, respectively. A marginally significant association for mortality was observed with each 10 ppb increase in O3 exposure at lag 0-3 day. The adverse effects of PM2.5 on all-cause mortality persisted when restricting the analysis at lower levels.. PM2.5 was also significantly associated with respiratory mortality and cardiovascular mortality. Conclusions: Short-term exposure to PM2.5 and NO2 is associated with increased risks for all-cause mortality. Our findings delivered evidence that risks of death persisted at levels below currently permissible.
An Automated and Putatively Versatile Approach for Labeling Peptides with Fluorine-18 Using the FastlabTM Synthesizer; Exemplified with Glu-the CO-Lys Pharmacophore
Authors: Olberg Dag Erlend , Hoareau Raphaël , Bach-Gansmo Tore , Cumming Paul
Published: December 2021

Background: Noninvasive molecular imaging using peptides and biomolecules labelled with positron emitters has become important for detection of cancer and other diseases with PET (positron emission tomography). The positron emitting radionuclide fluorine-18 is widely available in high yield from cyclotrons and has favorable decay (t1/2 109.7 min) and imaging properties. 18F-Labelling of biomolecules and peptides for use as radiotracers is customarily achieved in a two-step approach, which can be challenging to automate. 6-[18F]Fluoronicotinic acid 2,3,5,6-tetrafluorophenyl ester ([18F]F-Py-TFP) is a versatile 18F-prosthetic group for this purpose, which can be rapidly be produced in an one-step approach on solid support. This work details an automated procedure on the cassette-based GE FASTlabTM platform for the labeling of a peptidomimetic, exemplified by the case of using the Glu-CO-Lys motif to produce [18F]DCFPyL, a ligand targeting the prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA). Results: From fluorine-18 delivery a fully automated two-step radiosynthesis of [18F]DCFPyL was completed in 56 min with an overall end of synthesis yield as high as 37% using SPE purification on the GE FASTlabTM platform. Conclusions: Putatively, this radiolabeling methodology is inherently amenable to automation with a diverse set of synthesis modules, and it should generalize for production of a broad spectrum of biomolecule-based radiotracers for use in PET imaging.
Shikonin Inhibits The Proliferation of Cervical Cancer Cells Via FAK/AKT/GSK3β Signalling
Authors: Xu Ziyan , Huang Liru , Zhang Tiantian , Liu Yuwei , Gong Mei , Wu Xinyue , Chen Wen , Lan Lingning , Zhang Yangbo , Li Na , Hu Ping
Published: December 2021

Cervical cancer is one of the most common female cancers worldwide, and it is one of the most lethal malignancies of the female reproductive system. Shikonin, a natural pigment of theophyllin, has a variety of biological activities and has shown significant inhibitory effects on a variety of tumours in vitro and in vivo. However, there are few studies on Shikonin in cervical cancer. In the present study, we found that Shikonin inhibited not only the proliferation but also the migration of cervical cancer cells. Our data showed that Shikonin inhibited the proliferation of HeLa and SiHa cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. In cervical cancer cells, Shikonin not only inhibited the phosphorylation of FAK, AKT and GSK3β but also inhibited the phosphorylation of FAK, AKT and GSK3β induced by EGF. Further exploring the mechanism, we found that Shikonin could inhibit the proliferation of cervical cancer cells by regulating the phosphorylation of the FAK/AKT/GSK3β pathway. In addition, Shikonin significantly inhibited cell migration and reduced the expression of proteins such as MTA1, TGFβ1 and VEGF. In conclusion, our study elucidated that Shikonin has an inhibitory effect on the proliferation and migration of cervical cancer cells, which may be mediated by the FAK/AKT/GSK3β signalling pathway. Our results suggest that Shikonin has the potential to become a clinical treatment for cervical cancer.
Multivariate Kalman Filtering for Spatio-Temporal Processes
Authors: Ferreira Guillermo , Mateu Jorge , Porcu Emilio , Alegría Alfredo
Published: December 2021

An increasing interest in models for multivariate spatio-temporal processes has been noted in the last years. Some of these models are very flexible and can capture both marginal and cross spatial associations amongst the components of the multivariate process. In order to contribute to the statistical analysis of these models, this paper deals with the estimation and prediction of multivariate spatio-temporal processes by using multivariate state-space models. In this context, a multivariate spatio-temporal process is represented through the well-known Wold decomposition. Such an approach allows for an easy implementation of the Kalman filter to estimate linear temporal processes exhibiting both short and long range dependencies, together with a spatial correlation structure. We illustrate, through simulation experiments, that our method offers a good balance between statistical efficiency and computational complexity. Finally, we apply the method for the analysis of a bivariate dataset on average daily temperatures and maximum daily solar radiations from 21 meteorological stations located in a portion of south-central Chile.
Cranial Transposition and Revascularization of Autologous Omentum: A Novel Surgical Technique for Bypassing the Blood Brain Barrier after Resection of Recurrent Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Doron Omer , Chen Tom , Wong Tamika , Tucker Amy , Constantino Peter , Andrews Robert , Langer David J , Boockvar John A
Published: December 2021

Background: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients continue to suffer a poor prognosis. The blood brain barrier (BBB) comprises one of the obstacles for therapy, creating a barrier that decreases the bioavailability of chemotherapeutic agents in the central nervous system. Previously, a vascularized temporoparietal fascial scalp flap (TPFF) lining the resection cavity was introduced in a trial conducted in our institution, in newly-diagnosed GBM patients in an attempt to bypass the BBB after initial resection. In this paper, we report on a new technique to bypass the BBB after re-resection and potentially to allow tumor antigens to be surveilled by the immune system .Objective: Assess the feasibility of performing a cranial transposition and revascularization of autologous omentum after re-resection of GBM.Methods: Laparoscopically harvested omental free flap was transposed to the resection cavity by a team consisting of neurosurgeons, otolaryngologists, and general surgeons. This was done as part of a single center, single arm, open-label, phase I study.Results: Autologous abdominal omental tissue was harvested laparoscopically on its vascularized pedicle in 2 patients, transposed as a free flap, revascularized using external carotid artery, and carefully laid into the tumor resection cavity. Patients did well postoperatively returning to baseline activities. Graft viability was confirmed by cerebral angiogram. Conclusion: Omental cranial transposition of a laparoscopically harvested, vascularized flap, into the cavity of re-resected GBM patients is feasible and safe in the short term. Further studies are needed to ascertain whether such technique can improve progression free survival and overall survival in these patients.
Three Antimitotic Compounds Found in Banana Pseudo-Stem By Using Earthworms.
Authors: Rajesh Chandran , Balaji Senthamarai Kannan , Ramesh Prakash , Selvapalam Narayanan , Palanichelvam Karuppaiah
Published: December 2021

To identify antimitotic compounds from abundant and inexpensive plant resources, banana pseudo-stem was (BPS) chosen. Onion root tip assay and earthworm regeneration assay were carried out to test theantimitotic potential of aqueous extract of BPS.Earthworm (Eudrilus eugeniae) regeneration assay exploits the regeneration ability of amputated earthworms that retain the clitellum region. Aqueous extract of BPS decreased the mitotic index in Allium cepa root tips. Besides, thisaqueous extract of BPS inhibited the regeneration of blastema from amputated earthworms as well. Validation of this extract with MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl thiazolyl-2-yl)- 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay using MCF-7 breast cancer cell linefurther supported the presence of antimitotic compounds. Aqueous BPS extract was further fractionated with ethyl acetateand it was found to inhibit the regeneration of new tissues from amputated earthworms. Liquid Chromatography and Mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis was performed with aqueousBPS extract to predict the lead compounds.Prediction analysis with mass values revealed the presence of three different compounds viz. α-tocotrienol, 1,2,4-nonadecanetriol and 3',4',7-trihydroxyisoflavone, which were already reported to inhibit the cell division. All our results strongly supported that banana pseudo-stem extract possesses antimitotic compounds. This is the first report of identification of putative antimitotic compounds from aqueous extract of Musa paradisiaca var. Robusta by using earthworms.
Implication of miR-155-5p and miR-143-3p in the Vascular Insulin Resistance and Instability of Human and Experimental Atherosclerotic Plaque
Authors: González-López Paula , Ares-Carral Carla , López-Pastor Andrea R. , Infante-Menéndez Jorge , Gonzalez-Illanes Tamara , Céniga Melina Vega , Esparza Leticia , Beneit Nuria , Martín-Ventura José Luis , Escribano Óscar , Gómez-Hernández Almudena
Published: December 2021

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the main cause of death in first world countries, being atherosclerosis, a recurring process underlying their apparition. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that modulate the expression of their target proteins. Therefore, they have emerged as key players in diseases like cancer, diabetes, or CVDs.Methods: Apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice fed a standard type diet (STD) or high fat diet (HFD) for 8 and 18 weeks was compared to wild type (WT) STD-fed groups for the same time. 18 miRNAs were selected (from pubmed and GEO database) for their possible role in promoting atherosclerosis and were analysed by RT-qPCR in the aorta from the experimental model. Afterwards, the altered miRNAs in the aorta from 18 weeks-ApoE-/- mice were studied in human healthy aortic samples, human early aortic atherosclerotic plaques, and human advanced carotid atherosclerotic plaques. Results: From the 18 miRNAs analyzed, miR-155-5p was overexpressed and miR-143-3p was downregulated in mouse and human atherosclerotic lesions. In addition, a significant decrease of protein kinase B (AKT), target of miR-155-5p, and an increase of insulin-like growth factor type II receptor (IGF-IIR), target of miR-143-3p, were noted in aortic roots from ApoE-/- mice and in carotid plaques from ACA patients. Finally, both miRNAs were studied on vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cell lines. The overexpression of miR-155-5p reduced AKT levels and its phosphorylation in vascular smooth muscle cells. MiR-143-3p overexpression decreased IGF-IIR reducing apoptosis in vascular cells. Conclusions: Our results suggest that miR-155-5p and miR-143-3p may be implicated in insulin resistance and plaque instability by the modulation of their targets AKT and IGF-IIR, contributing to the progression of experimental and human atherosclerosis.Trial Registration: authorization numbers PFS09-007 and PI1442016.
The Glycosyltransferases sdgA and sdgB Expression in Staphylococcus Epidermidis Depends On The Conditions of Biofilm Formation.
Authors: Gómez-Alonso Itzia S. , Estrada-Alemán Ilse D. , Martínez-García Sergio , Peralta Humberto , Quintana Erika T. , Guerrero-Barajas Claudia , Chávez-Cabrera Cipriano , Rodríguez-Martínez Sandra , Cancino-Diaz Mario E. , Cancino-Diaz Juan C.
Published: December 2021

The Staphylococcus aureus’ SdrG protein is glycosylated by SdgA and SdgB for their protection against its degradation by the neutrophil’s cathepsin G. So far, there is not information about the role of Staphylococcus epidermidis’ SdgA nor SdgB in the production of biofilm, therefore the main of this work was to determine the distribution and expression of sdrG, sdgA and sdgB genes in S. epidermidis in conditions of biofilm. The frequency of the genes sdrG, sdgA and sdgB were evaluated by PCR in a collection of 75 isolates. The isolates were grown in dynamic conditions (in agitation) or static conditions (biofilm productor: planktonic or sessile cells). The expression of sdrG, sdgA and sdgB were determined by RT-qPCR in cells grown under dynamic conditions (CGDC), as well as planktonic and sessile cells, and in cells adhered to a catheter (in vivo). The genes sdrG and sdgB were detected in 100% of isolates, meanwhile the gene sdgA was detected in 71% of the samples (p<0.001). The CGDC did not expressed the sdrG, sdgA and sdgB mRNAs. The planktonic and sessile cells expressed sdrG and sdgB, and the same was seen in cells adhered to the catheter. In particular, one isolate, able to induce biofilm under cathepsin G treatment, expressed sdrG and sdgB in planktonic, sessile and in cells adhered to the catheter. This suggests that the state of cells adherence is an important factor for the transcription of sdgA, sdgB and sdrG.
Lipoxin Alleviates Diabetic Vascular Calcification via the YAP Pathway
Authors: Han Baihe , Yang Mengyue , Liu Qi , Wang Gang , Ma Xiaoxue , Liu Dandan , Huang Xingtao , Wang Xuedong , Zhang Ruoxi , Hou Jingbo , Yu Bo
Published: December 2021

Background: Vascular calcification is highly prevalent in patients with diabetes and has detrimental consequences. However, no effective prevention and treatment methods are currently available. Extensive evidence has demonstrated the protective effect of lipoxin (LX) against vascular diseases. However, whether LX prevents diabetic vascular calcification remains unknown. Here, we tested the hypothesis that LX alleviated osteogenic differentiation and subsequent calcification of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).Methods: In vitro, human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) were incubated in osteogenic medium (OM) with advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and LX to further determine the underlying mechanisms. An in vivo diabetic mouse model was established using a combination of a high-fat diet and multiple formulations of low-dose streptozotocin (STZ). Cell culture, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, ALP activity, Alizarin red staining, von kossa staining, determination of calcium content, western blot analysis, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence staining and statistical analysis were used in our study. Results: AGEs dose-dependently induced calcification and expression of osteogenesis-related markers, including Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), osteopontin (OPN), and type I collagen (COL1), coupled with the activation of yes-associated protein (YAP). Mechanistically, YAP activation enhanced the AGE-induced osteogenic phenotype and calcification, but inhibition of YAP signalling alleviated this trend. Consistent with the in vitro results, diabetes promoted YAP expression as well as the subcellular localisation of the protein in the nucleus in the arterial tunica media. Interestingly, treatment with LX reduced vascular osteogenesis and calcification in diabetic mice, which was correlated with the reduced YAP levels. In addition, LX significantly inhibited COL1 accumulation and modulated the extracellular matrix. Our results further demonstrated that a pharmacological agonist of YAP reversed LX-mediated protection against osteogenic phenotypic conversion and calcification in VSMCs.Conclusions: These results demonstrate that LX attenuates transdifferentiation and calcification of VSMCs in diabetes mellitus via the YAP signalling axis, suggesting that LX is a potent therapeutic strategy to prevent diabetic vascular calcification.
Meta-Omics Approaches Reveal Unique Small RNAs Exhibited by the Uncultured Microorganisms Dwelling Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Sediment in Guaymas Basin
Authors: Nawaz Muhammad Zohaib , Wang Fengping
Published: December 2021

Small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) are present in almost all investigated microbes, regarded as modulators and regulators of gene expression and also known to play their regulatory role in the environmentally significant process. It has been estimated that less than 1% of the microbes in nature are culturable in the laboratory, hindering our understanding of their physiology, and living strategies. However, recent big advancing of DNA sequencing and omics-related data analysis makes the understanding of the genetics, metabolic potentials, even ecological roles of uncultivated microbes possible. In this study, we used a metagenome and metatranscriptome based integrated approach to identifying small RNAs in the microbiome of Guaymas Basin sediments. Hundreds of environmental sRNAs comprising of 228 groups were identified based on their homology, 82% of which displayed high similarity with previously known small RNAs in Rfam database, whereas, “18%” are putative novel sRNA motifs. A putative cis-acting sRNA potentially binding to methyl coenzyme M reductase, a key enzyme in methanogenesis or anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM), was discovered in the genome of ANaerobic MEthane oxidizing archaea group 1 (ANME-1), which were the dominate microbe in the sample. These sRNAs were actively expressed in local Guaymas Basin hydrothermal environment, suggesting important roles of sRNAs in regulating microbial activity in natural environments.
Identifying possible inaccuracy in reported birth head circumference measurements among infants in the US Zika Pregnancy and Infant Registry
Authors: Roth Nicole M. , Woodworth Kate Russell , Godfred-Cato Shana , Delaney Augustina M. , Olson Samantha M. , III John F. Nahabedian , Reynolds Megan R. , Jones Abbey M. , Neelam Varsha , Valencia-Prado Miguel , Delgado-López Camille , Lee Ellen H. , Ellis Esther M. , Lake-Burger Heather , Tonzel Julius L. , Higgins Cathleen A. , Chan Ronna L. , Tong Van T. , Gilboa Suzanne M. ,   Janet D. Cragan1, Honein Margaret A. , Moore Cynthia A.
Published: December 2021

The US Zika Pregnancy and Infant Registry (USZPIR) monitors infants born to mothers with confirmed or possible Zika virus (ZIKV) infection during pregnancy. The surveillance case definition for Zika-associated birth defects includes microcephaly based on head circumference (HC). We assessed birth and follow-up data from infants with birth HC measurements <3rd percentile and birthweight ≥10th percentile to determine possible misclassification of microcephaly.We developed a schema informed by literature review and expert opinion to identify possible HC measurement inaccuracy using HC growth velocity and neuroimaging results. Two or more HC measurements between 2-12 months of age were required for assessment. Inaccuracy in birth HC measurement was suspected if growth velocity was >3 centimeters/month in the first three months or HC was consistently >25th percentile during follow-up. Normal neuroimaging was considered supportive of HC measurement inaccuracy. Of 6,799 infants, 351 (5.2%) had Zika-associated birth defects, of which 111 had birth HC measurements <3rd percentile and birthweight ≥10th percentile. Of 84/111 infants with sufficient follow-up, 38/84 (45%) were classified as having possible inaccuracy of birth HC measurement, 19/84 (23%) had HC ≥3rd percentile on follow-up without meeting criteria for possible inaccuracy, and 27/84 (32%) had continued HC <3rd percentile. After excluding possible inaccuracies, the proportion of infants with Zika-associated birth defects including microcephaly decreased from 5.2% to 4.6%.About one-third of infants with Zika-associated birth defects had only microcephaly, but indications of possible measurement inaccuracy were common. Implementation of this schema in ZIKV infection during pregnancy studies can reduce misclassification of microcephaly.
The General Relativistic Perspective
Authors: Taylor David Grant
Published: December 2021

The Equations from General Einstein's Relativity Theory can also be framed from a Relativistically distorted perspective. General relativity slows gravitons reducing the force, so escape velocity is limited to c. Atomic structure bosons slowing makes all elements subject to decay. Energy from slowing boson structure particles would increase matter particle velocity. The lower the atomic weight, the greater the speed, so hydrogen escapes in the most significant amounts. Distortion would never be imaginary.
Generic methodology for modeling and simulation of vibration, wear and noise in electromechanical drivetrains
Authors:   , Kolluru Yashwant
Published: December 2021

This work describes development of a comprehensive methodology for analyzing vibro-acoustic and wear mechanisms in transmission systems. The thesis addresses certain gaps present in the fields of structure dynamics and abrasion mechanism and opens new areas for further research. The paper attempts to understand new and relatively unexplored challenges like influences of wear on the dynamics of drive train. It also focuses on developing new techniques for analyzing the vibration and acoustic behavior of the drive unit structures and surrounding fluids respectively. The developed methodology meets the requirements of both the complete system and component level modeling by using specially identified combination of different simulation techniques. Based on the created template model, a three-stage spur plus helical gearbox is constructed and simulated as an application example. In addition to the internal mechanical excitation mechanisms, the transmission model also includes the rotational and translational dynamics of the gears, shafts and bearings. It is followed by illustration of wear among the rotating components. Different kinds of static and dynamic analyses are performed and coupled at various levels depending on the mechanical complexities involved. Furthermore, the structure dynamic vibration of the housing and the associated sound particle radiations are mapped into the surrounding fluid. Additionally, the approach for selection of the potential parameters for optimization is depicted. Final part focuses on the measurements of different system states used for validation of the model. In the end, results obtained from both simulations and experiments are analyzed and assessed for there respective performances.