bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Application of ischium‐pubis index for sex determination using ihree‐dimensional models (919.13)
Authors: Kim Dong‐Ho , Jung Go‐Un , Kim Yi‐Suk , Lee U‐Young 
Published: June 2021

For sex estimation with the pelvis, ischium‐pubis index is commonly chosen along the greater sciatic notch. This index is the percentage value of the pubic length divided by the ischium length and known that female has greater value than male. The pubic length is a distance from the upper edge of the pubic symphysis to the acetabulum, and the ischium length is the distance from the most distinct point on the ischial tuberosity to the acetabulum. The point in the acetabulum is customarily marked on the point where the three parts of the pubic bone meet, however, due to irregular shape of the acetabulum; there is possibility to be marked differently due to observer. Thus, we studied a landmark which is more objectively to be marked and ischium‐pubis index applicable to Korean population. We studied 103 sides (52 female and 51 male) of the Digital Korean Database stored in the Catholic Institute for Applied Anatomy. Landmarks chosen near the acetabulum to measure the pubis length and ischium length were those: the point where the pubis, the ilium and the ischium meet, the deepest point of the acetabulum, and a point on the acetabular border. Mimics (ver. 15, Materialise, Belgium) was used to enable three‐dimensional measurement by a template programmed for this study. There were nine measurement items related to the distance and angle between each point. Discriminant analysis for sex determination was done by SPSS (ver. 20.0, IBM, USA). The method using the deepest point of the acetabulum showed the highest accuracy of sex estimation compared to the traditional method using the contacting point of the three innomiates and another method of upper border of the acetabulum. Therefore, we suggest through this study that utilising the deepest point of the acetabulum is suitable for calculating the ischium‐pubis index. For this study, mean the ischium‐pubis index of male was 98 and of female was 114, and the demarking point of both sexes was 106.Grant Funding Source: Supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)
Crystal structure of Homo sapiens neuroblastoma, suppression of tumorigenicity 1 from DAN (differential screening‐selected gene aberrative in neuroblastoma) gene (933.3)
Authors: Wang Guan 
Published: June 2021

There are over thirty‐three ligands in transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) family, among of which the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) class is the largest one. BMP ligands could be inhibited by some extracellular antagonists, such as noggin, follistatin and members of the DAN (differential screening selected gene abberative in neuroblastoma) family. Other than BMP antagonists’ numerous developmental functions like germ layer specification and temporospatial gradients, elevated levels of one BMP antagonist gremlin has been tested to associated with pulmonary fibrosis and diabetic nephropathy. Besides, certain tumors block the anti‐proliferative functions by increasing levels of BMP antagonists. Strong evidents have been establised that BMP antagonists are highly related with some tumors which leads to an attemp to utilize extracellular BMP antagonists as tumor suppressors.Dan gene is highly conserved among various eukaryotic species. Usually, Dan family proteins are small, single‐domain, glycoproteins consisting of at least five mammalian proteins which are DAN (Human differential screening‐selected gene aberrative in neuroblastoma), Gremlin/DRM, Cer1 (Cerberus‐related), Dante and PRDC (protein related to DAN and cereberus). Basically, the whole structure includes an NH2‐terminal hydrophobic signal sequence, two potential casein kinase II target sites, COOH‐terminal (HX) repeats and a core cysteine knot region (DAN domain) which is thought to be the common feature. The knot structure is observed to have a conserved 8‐residue circle due to a pair of disulfide bonds that connect two antiparallel β‐sheets. And experimental evidents have shown that DAN domain is essential for binding to BMP ligands.In our study, we crystallized NBL1 (Homo Sapiens Neuroblastoma, Suppression Of Tumorigenicity 1) which is another member in DAN family, still working on the X‐ray diffraction data collection currently and will solve this protein structure in the future.
Double gene knockdown leads to X‐chromosome reactivation (939.7)
Authors: Thomas Stacy , Sripathy Smitha , Leko Vid , Foss Eric , Lao Uyen , Bedalov Antonio 
Published: June 2021

Rett Syndrome is a X‐linked brain disorder caused by a mutation in one copy of the MeCP2 gene. This gene is only expressed in some cells due to X‐chromosome silencing, a phenomenon that occurs in all cells with two X chromosomes. After four cell divisions, each cell of the embryo randomly inactivates one X‐chromosome (Xi) and the other (Xa) provides the X‐linked genetic code for the cell. This choice is propagated through subsequent cell divisions. The exact mechanism of the initiation and maintenance of X‐chromosome silencing is unknown, but some factors are known. Xist RNA coats Xi, acting as a signal to initiate and maintain X‐silencing. DNA methylation at CpG islands makes the chromatin less available and hypoacteylated histones alter the chromatin packaging to maintain X‐silencing. We hypothesize that a future treatment option for Rett Syndrome will be to use Small hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) to knockdown genes fundamental to X‐chromosome silencing to reactivate Xi and cause more cells to produce functional. shRNAs can reduce the expression of a gene by imposing post‐transcriptional control on mRNAs, with which they complementary base‐pair. A shRNA library screen using (Xa)MeCP2/(Xi)MeCP2‐Luciferase‐Hygromycin Resistance mouse tail fibroblasts generated 82 possible genes involved with X‐silencing. In order to validate these screens, the knockdown efficiency of genes has been tested using qPCR and was used to measure the amount of X‐reactivation. Reducing the expression of Acvr1 and dnmt1 in cells results in some X‐reactivation. In combination with a dnmt1 knockdown, a Xist knockdown increases the frequency of reactivation.Grant Funding Source: This research is supported in part by the Cancer Center Support Grant (CCSG) CURE Supplement: NCI 5
Poly(A)‐dependent transcription termination does not require poly(A) site cleavage (947.1)
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Martinson Harold 
Published: June 2021

Termination of transcription by RNA polymerase II, for genes encoding polyadenylated mRNA, requires a functional poly(A) signal in the nascent RNA. Since the poly(A) signal is best known for 3'‐end processing of RNA by cleavage and polyadenylation, it was assumed early on that the requirement of a poly(A) signal for termination reflects a need to cleave the transcript at the poly(A) site. Cleavage was proposed to provide entry for a 5’ to 3’ exonuclease that would be targeted to the elongating polymerase by degrading the nascent transcript. Subsequent discovery of the exonuclease Rat1/Xrn2, and the finding that it did indeed participate in PDT, led to almost universal acceptance of this view, which was dubbed the torpedo model. However, a number of results over the years have raised doubts about the torpedo model by suggesting that PDT can occur without cleavage at the poly(A) site‐‐‐an absolute requirement of the torpedo model. We undertook to examine definitively the validity of the torpedo model. To this end we developed an assay in which PDT and pre‐mRNA 3’‐end cleavage activities can be measured simultaneously in Hela nuclear extract. Using this assay, we have established unequivocally that cleavage at the poly(A) site is not a prerequisite for PDT. Therefore, the torpedo model cannot be correct. Moreover, we showed that PDT can be inhibited by α‐amanitin, which binds to the trigger loop in the active site of RNA polymerase II. Other methods of stopping transcription do not interfere with PDT, suggesting that it is not simply the inhibition of transcription, but an effect of α‐amanitin on the conformation of the polymerase active site that blocks PDT. Thus, neither cleavage at the poly(A) site nor degradation of the 3’ flanking RNA are required for PDT. Rather, a conformational change within the polymerase is required, presumably triggered by the apparatus that assembles on the poly(A) signal.Grant Funding Source: Supported by the UC CRCC, the UCLA Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation and the UCLA Academic Senate.
Assessing the dual orientations of vaccine candidate P6 in nontypable Haemophilus influenzae (948.5)
Authors: Barnard David , Bettinger John , Shaw Juliana , Pichichero Michael , Michel Lea 
Published: June 2021

Nontypable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) is a pathogenic bacterium that is known to cause otitis media and other respiratory diseases, mostly in children and older adults. P6, a protein vaccine candidate for protection against NTHi infection, has recently been shown to be inserted into the outer membrane of NTHi in two orientations; one being surface exposed and the other oriented facing in toward the peptidoglycan layer. For P6 to be considered a good vaccine candidate, it must be surface exposed and conserved in the majority of NTHi strains. Using confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, and a biotinylation technique, we have determined the common orientation of P6 in multiple strains of NTHi. Results suggest that a minority of the total P6 population is surface exposed. Implications for P6’s vaccine candidacy are discussed.Grant Funding Source: This study was supported by NIH NIDCD RO1 08671 (to MEP) and the Rochester Institute of Technology.
An investigation of novel AMPs (976.6)
Authors: Greenberger Virginia , Stevens‐Truss Regina 
Published: June 2021

Antibiotic resistance continues to pose a threat to the human race as bacteria become more and more resistant to antibiotics. New multi‐drug resistant (MDR) strains of tuberculosis, methicillin‐resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and vancomycin resistant enterococci (VRE), amongst other bacteria, are causing expensive, painful and deadly diseases (Nikaido 2009). A need for new antibiotics to treat these infections has fueled scientists to revisit studying antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). These AMPs, which are derived from a wide variety of natural sources, are categorized by their shape. In this project we investigated the ability of a series of cationic, amphipathic , α‐helical peptides derived from sequences within nitric oxide synthases (NOS) to inhibit growth of E. coli and S. aureus. Cell growth in the presence and absence of peptide was monitored as a change in optical density (OD) of a culture at 600 nm. Assays to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were also conducted, and the peptides’ ability to rupture cell membranes were assessed by measuring the rise in fluorescence of a solution containing dye encased liposomes. The result show that the peptide derived from the inducible NOS was not effective against either bacteria at the concentrations tested, nor did it cause leakage of dye from liposomes, while the peptide derived from the neuronal NOS was bacteriocidal to both E. coli and S. aureus, but also did not cause liposome leakage. These results are encouraging as potential starting points in the search for new antibacterial agents.Grant Funding Source: Supported by a grant from the GLCA NDI.
Genesis of antibiotic resistance IV: limited control measures in eradication of vector borne and zoonotic diseases in southwestern border regions of United States and Mexico (986.4)
Authors: Kannan Subburaj , Salinas Monica , Trevino Edith , Martinez Karenny , Iracheta Alyssa , Subburaj Prabavathy 
Published: June 2021

The USDA‐APHIS sponsored US Fever Tick Eradication Program essentially employs tick riders to look for animals that are infested with ticks and employ quarantine. Methods to control infected animals as an effective tick control strategy; the tick infested animal is subjected to “Dirty Dipping” for a 14 day interval followed by “Clean Dipping”. With appropriate medical evaluations the tick free animal is released to the “Owner” on to its normal environment. The main concern with these methods is that pre‐existing bacterial pathogens in tick infested animals, such as Borrelia burgdorferi, (Lyme borreliosis) Francisella tularensis, Bartonella spp., Rickettsioses, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Become resistant to treatments. If these pathogens have acquired antibacterial resistance, subsequent infections in animals or humans via vector borne contamination or by Zoonosis will be more difficult to cure. Through the efforts of the Vector Control Department of The City Administration and County agents sponsored by the Texas Agricultural and Mechanical University, in College Station, the incidence of such bacterial infections are monitored and reported immediately to the City, County, State and Federal authorities; however the existing chemical means to eradicate these bacterial pathogens has become inept. Developing new pesticides specifically aimed at controlling disease vectors, without bioaccumulation and no effect on non‐target organisms with a high virulence and low susceptibility to resistance, would be beneficial in controlling the AR pathogen induced infectious diseases.Grant Funding Source: Professional Development Funds ‐ SWTJC, Eagle Pass, Texas
Pathogen‐induced lipid coalescence in the host membrane causes downstream activation of Rho GTPase (99.3)
Authors: Krachler Anne‐Marie 
Published: June 2021

We recently discovered a family of bacterial adhesins (Multivalent Adhesion Molecules, MAMs) which mediate initial contact between pathogen and host cells during infection. MAMs are composed of tandem arrays of six to seven mammalian cell entry (mce) domains, each recognizing a phosphatidic acid lipid ligand in the host cell membrane. We utilized bacteriomimetic tools to reconstruct the process of pathogen adhesion to host cells independent of other bacterial components and virulence factors. This revealed that MAMs, through binding to phosphatidic acid ligands with high affinity, induce lipid coalescence in the host cell membrane. Clustering of phosphatidic acid ligands triggers downstream activation of the small GTPase RhoA and actin rearrangements. In vivo infection studies with Vibrio parahaemolyticus demonstrated that MAM‐triggered RhoA activation facilitates breaching of a polarized epithelial cell layer by the pathogen. This is an unprecedented mechanism utilized by a bacterial pathogen to manipulate host cells and facilitate infection.Grant Funding Source: This work was supported by an EMBO fellowship (ALTF 938‐2011).
Biochemical and Microbiological Studies of the Semen, Mouth swab and Serum of infertile Nigeria Male (LB232)
Authors: Samuel Aderonke , Olagunju O 
Published: June 2021

There is an increase in male infertility in Nigeria mostly due to abnormal seminal fluid which may be found in up to 60% of infertile male, resulting in a multi‐ factorial health related issues.This research evaluates the relationship between oral health and infertility in Nigeria men.A total of 43 men were recruited, grouped into 30 infertile men and 13 controls; aged 30 to 50 years, bio data and health related information were collected. Microbial spectrum of seminal and mouth swab was analysed, the following biochemical parameters: lipid profile, testosterone, prolactin, LH and FSH were analysed using serum samples.The average semen volume, concentration and motility of infertile group was significantly lower than the normal group, with a corresponding increase in abnormal spermatozoa morphology of the test group compared to the control (p<0.05).The spectra of bacteria revealed Staphylococcus aureus as the most common bacteria isolate in both the semen culture and the mouth swab of infertile candidates. The level of Testosterone was significantly decreased in the infertile men (Test) group, while the levels of Prolactin, FSH and LH were significantly increased. HDL showed a significant decrease in the test group compared to the control; however there is no significant difference in Creatinine and Urea level of both groups.The results did not confirm any mouth infection that has a direct correlation to infertility status of men; however, there is an increase in seminal fluid infections with decreasing sperm concentration, volume, motility and morphology. Hence, there is no direct association between mouth infection and male infertility.
HIF and Notch non canonical pathways affect the emergence and differentiation of Cardiovascular Progenitor Cells (LB270)
Authors: Calderon Alexander , Ramírez‐Bergeron Diana 
Published: June 2021

Adaptive responses to low Oxygen (O2) tension (hypoxia) are integral to embryogenesis, tumorigenesis, and tissue ischemia. Developing embryos begin to experience a hypoxic microenvironment promoting the development of the cardiovascular system. Early differentiation events focus the generation of Flk‐1, Brachyury double positive cardiovascular progenitor cells, hemangioblasts, which have hematopoietic, endothelial, and cardiomyocyte potential. Our model system utilizes embryonic stem (ES) cells, which can be cultured and differentiated under physiologic conditions (3 % O2) into embryoid bodies (EBs) mimicking early development Hypoxia Inducible Factor (HIF) is a major transcriptional player required for the temporal differentiation of these progenitor cells. We propose that HIF also plays a significant noncanonical role in mediating the generation and differentiation of hemangioblasts cells by interacting with the Notch signaling pathway. Using chemically and genetically modified mouse ES cells, differentiation experiments are being developed to explore the connection between these two pathways. Our present data demonstrate that hypoxia influences the expression of Notch receptors (Notch‐1 and ‐4), ligands (Delta‐4) and downstream Notch targets (Hrt‐1 and ‐2).Grant Funding Source: Supported by: R25‐HL03152 NHLBI Summer Research Program at CWRU
Fasciola hepatica fatty acid binding protein inhibits the activation of TLR4 (LB288)
Authors: Ortiz Ivelisse , Cabán Kimberly , Espino Ana 
Published: June 2021

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a major component of the outer membrane of Gram‐negative bacteria and is a potent activator of the innate immune system. The immune response to LPS can lead to septic shock syndrome if the inflammatory response is amplified and uncontrolled which can be fatal. The receptors that recognize LPS are lipid binding protein (LBP), CD14, MD12 and Toll‐like Receptor 4 (TLR‐4) which all cooperates in the pathway activation. Today, there is much interest to develop TLR antagonists to control the innate immunity and regulation of innate immune responses. TLR antagonists currently under development are structural analogs of agonists and probably bind to the receptor but fail to signal or pathway activation. However, there is still a need for effective molecules that could prevent or circumvent the negative effect of inflammatory responses during a variety of human diseases.We demonstrated that the protein Fasciola hepatica fatty acid binding protein (FABP) has antagonist properties through TLR‐4 after LPS stimulation. FABP binds to human CD14 co‐receptor of HEK 293 cells to block the activation of NF‐kB induced by LPS, functioning thus as antagonist of TLR4. We also demonstrated that FABP inhibited the production of inflammatory molecules as TNF‐α, IL‐12A and NOS production by human monocytes derived macrophage (MDM) in vitro. This results directed to explore the potential of FABP as a new class of drug against septic shock bacterial or others inflammatory diseases in which TLR4 are involved.
Biodegradation of venlafaxine (LB289)
Authors: Claybourne James , Shi Edmund , Strand Stephanie , Schultz Melissa , Snider Mark 
Published: June 2021

The antidepressant venlafaxine (VEN) is being detected in surface waters in high concentrations relative to other detected pharmaceuticals. The high concentrations of VEN in surface waters are the result of the inefficiency of current organic compound removal techniques employed by wastewater treatment facilities (WWTF). Current research involves understanding the pathways by which bioremediation of compounds such as VEN can be achieved. Previous data suggests that VEN is rapidly degraded in microcosms (t1/2 ~ 2 days) when cultured with aerobic sludge from WWTPs. The present study investigates the aerobic bacteria and the environment of the activated sludge that are contributing to the biodegradation pathway of VEN. Liquid media cultures containing VEN (100 ppm) and trace metals (TMs) were inoculated with (1) bacteria previously isolated from aerobic sludge with the capacity for growing on minimal media in which venlafaxine was the sole carbon source and (2) variety of known pseudomonas species, and examined for the ability to degrade VEN. Aliquots from the cultures were taken with time, the VEN was extracted and quantified by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Preliminary evidence showed VEN was degraded only in the presence of TMs. The emergence and subsequent disappearance of VEN metabolites of in cultures containing TMs provides additional evidence for the bacterial degradation of VEN. Identifying the bacteria will allow for the subsequent determination of the degradation pathway and the genes and mechanisms associated with its degradation.Grant Funding Source: Supported By Research Corporation
Dietary intake and nutritional status of children and adolescents with HIV‐infection (LB295)
Authors: Chaud Daniela , Furtado Miriam , Machado Alisson , Abreu Edeli 
Published: June 2021

Introduction: HIV‐infection is more severe in children and adolescents due to their growth and development.Objective: To evaluate the dietary intake and nutritional status of children and adolescents with HIV‐infection.Methods: This cross‐sectional study was performed with 12 children and adolescents with HIV‐infection living in na institution located in São Paulo, Brazil. The variables studied were dietary intake, by qualitative analysis of the daily menu offered by the institution, and nutritional status, obtained by the measurement of height and weight to subsequent classification according to the World Health Organization growth curves.Results: 50% of subjects were male and 50% were female. The menu offered by institution had low offer of fruits and high offer of sugars. Regarding nutritional staus, 83.3% of participants were categorized as eutrophic.Conclusion: The menu offered, despite the great offer of sugar, was adequate with respect to most of the food groups. The most children and adolescents showed eutrophic.