bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asbestos and Salamander in India
Authors: Szántó Péter-Dániel
Published: November 2020

The present paper, an homage to B. Laufer’s “Asbestos and Salamander” (1915), adds South Asia to the story of a remarkable Eurasian cultural meme meant to explain the presence of fire-proof cloth after its manufacturing technology was forgotten, namely that asbestos was the fur of a mythical animal. I argue that none of our Sanskrit dictionaries contain the correct meaning of the term agniśauca, which does indeed mean asbestos. The widely shared motif explains why in Sanskrit literature too we have animals (a nondescript mṛga) by the same name. I examine textual passages from kāvya, purāṇas, as well as Buddhist sūtras and śāstras, to elucidate this topic. I also cite some evidence that in the period between the 9th and the 11th c. some areas of India still possessed knowledge of asbestos manufacturing. However, as for where and when the correlation was first made, I must leave the question open.
How Ethnic Mobilization Leads to Neighborhood Inclusion
Authors: Chuang Ya-Han , Merle Aurore
Published: November 2020

This article compares various collective actions carried out by ethnic Chinese residents against violence in their communities, and the negotiations these residents initiated with local authorities on this issue, in two suburbs of Paris, Aubervilliers and La Courneuve. Although French national policy toward immigrant minorities has been guided by the principle of “color-blindness,” some municipalities in the Paris region have gradually recognized the increasing diversity of their populations, and have incorporated the vocabulary of multiculturalism in their local governance. Consequently, the municipalities’ different approaches to identifying and coping with violence against Chinese residents vary according to how they perceive the diversity of local residents, and according to inter-ethnic relations in those areas. We consider that the different degrees of recognition with regard to Chinese communities within the two municipalities have affected the consequences of the Chinese residents’ collective actions, and their sense of inclusion in the cities where they live. Beyond the appearance of inter-ethnic conflicts, our comparative study demonstrates the intersectional cause of violence against the Chinese population—especially with regard to the disparities, both social and spatial, among Chinese residents themselves.
Chinese Immigrants Acting as Local Residents
Authors: Du (杜娟) Juan
Published: November 2020

Urban violence and threats to personal safety are everyday issues of shared concern for Chinese migrants in France. They push Chinese migrants to act as local residents and to interact with the host country in various and unexpected ways, whether openly or inconspicuously, in order to improve their living environment and negotiate their place in the host society. Drawing on an ethnography of Chinese immigrants living in the banlieues of Paris and their everyday social practices in relation to the issues of violence and insecurity, this article documents the strategies of everyday resistance used by Chinese immigrants, grounded in their local knowledge. In a shift toward further local participation, they perform these actions as local residents, resulting in a de facto citizenship.
Chinese Ethnic Media in France
Authors: Li (李志鹏) Zhipeng
Published: November 2020

This article seeks to analyze recent developments in overseas media in the Chinese language in France. To do so it underlines the links between these media, created for and by Chinese migrants, and the trajectory of an entrepreneurial diaspora within the host country. The vast bulk of data is drawn from a qualitative study of several media organizations of the Chinese diaspora in France. In particular, a comparative study of two media, Ouzhou shibao and Huarenjie, has enabled an examination of a twofold interrelated phenomenon. On the one hand, the changes in commercial strategy to respond to the evolution of the Chinese diaspora in France, and, on the other, the relations between the Paris-based Chinese ethnic media and the authorities of the country of origin. It is argued that these media contribute to building social and political capital for the Chinese diasporic entrepreneurs in France.
Institutional Discrimination and Workplace Racism
Authors: Li (李永) Yong
Published: November 2020

For the past ten years, foreign students have provided the largest contingent of skilled migrants in France. Yet both the career paths of these graduates and their subjective experiences have remained largely unexamined. This paper focuses on the difficulties of Chinese graduates in France initially during their period of job seeking and then in their working lives. The paper has a two-fold objective. Firstly, it highlights the discriminatory nature of French immigration policy, one which maintains non-EU foreign graduates in a precarious legal position during the transition from study to work. Their precarious situation generates discrimination in the workplace from employers. Secondly, it shows that in the contemporary business world Chinese employees are subjected to subtle forms of racism, forms that are embedded in the routine functioning of companies. These experiences of discrimination and racism have a strong impact on these Chinese employees’ career paths and their access to rights.
Lysine-Specific Demethylase 4A Regulates Osteogenic Differentiation via Regulating the Binding Ability of H3K9me3 with the Promoters of Runx2, Osterix and Osteocalcin
Authors: Qin Guozhong , Li Yikai , Wang Haibin , Yang Junxing , Chen Qunqun , Tang Hongyu , Wang Yueqi , Zhang Meng , Jiang Tao , Lin Songqing , Huo Shaochuan
Published: November 2020

A well-studied subject of epigenetics, the histone methylation located at lysine and arginine is overseen via methyltransferases and demethylases. Lysine-specific demethylase 4A (KDM4A) comprises a lysine demethylase and possesses specificity for H3K9me3 and H3K36me3, which is capable
of being used in order to activate histone transcription. Our team examined the expression of KDM4A within Sprague Dawley (SD) rats and further investigated the mechanism via which this phenomena regulates osteogenic variation within the present study. The overexpression of KDM4A facilitated
the process of osteoblast differentiation in bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC), while the knocking down differentiation via osteoblast was restrained via the suppression of the expression of Runx2, Osterix, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and osteocalcin (OCN). Knocking down KDM4A lowered levels
of the promoter expression of Runx2, osterix, and OCN, and raised levels of H3K27me3 expression. The results demonstrated that KDM4A possesses a crucial role within the differentiation of osteoblasts and furthermore regulates the expression of Runx2, Osterix, and OCN via H3K9me3. The present
research may provide new insights into the treatment of bone healing.
Co-Polymer Functionalised Gold Nanoparticles Show Efficient Mitochondrial Targeted Drug Delivery in Cervical Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Oladimeji Olakunle , Akinyelu Jude , Singh Moganavelli
Published: November 2020

The mitochondria have recently become a novel target in the treatment of cancer. Targeted delivery by nanoparticles (NPs) has shown potential in enhancing existing therapeutic principles. With toxicity remaining a recurring issue, the green synthesis of inorganic NPs and modification
with polymers may help to improve stability and biocompatibility. We synthesized epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)-capped gold NPs (AuNPs), and functionalized with poly-D-lysine grafted polyethylene glycol (PDL-g-PEG), and the mitochondrial targeting triphenylphosphonium cation, and thereafter
assessed their mitochondrial delivery capacity of paclitaxel in cancer cells in vitro. This PDL-g-PEG coated EGCG-AuNPs were further assessed for their laminin receptor avidity and mitochondrial localisation potential, upon functionalisation with the delocalised cation, triphenylphosphine.
The laminin receptor dependent uptake and mitochondrial localisation of targeted T-Au(PDL-g-PEG) NPs were confirmed by ICP-OES and fluorescent microscopy. Their delivery of paclitaxel to the mitochondria of cancer cells elicited significant cytotoxicity especially in the human cervical carcinoma
(HeLa) cell line, compared to the untargeted T-Au(PDL-g-PEG) and free drugs. Mechanistic studies implicated caspase dependent apoptosis as the mechanism of cell death. Our findings demonstrate the capacity of T-Au-[PDL-PEG] NPs to preferentially localize in the tumour mitochondria, and confirms
the potential impact of subcellular targeting, especially to the mitochondria in cancer cells for an improvement in the therapeutic indices of these drugs.
Novel Detection of Norovirus and Double Clostridium difficile in a Closed Cartridge System
Authors: Chen Hui , Xiao Ziqi , Chu Zhou , Jin Lian , Li Song , Deng Yan , Chen Zhu , Hu Guohong , Wu Yanqi , He Nongyue
Published: November 2020

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) has become the main cause of diarrhea-related diseases in domestic (China) inpatients. High-sensitivity and high-specificity detection methods for CDI must be applied clinically for CDI supervisory control. In this paper, we introduce a detection
method for C. difficile and Norovirus based on real-time PCR. We developed and optimized a primer–probe for Norovirus targets tcdA and tcdB with remarkably increased detection sensitivity. We then used this method in an integrated cassette, and found increased detection efficiency
for Norovirus standards in the cassette compared to C. difficile samples. These results provide a basis for further exploration of automatic testing system design.
Graphene Oxide Quantum Dots-Induced Mineralization via the Reactive Oxygen Species-Dependent Autophagy Pathway in Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Li Xincong , Liu Hanxiao , Yu Yijun , Ma Lan , Liu Chao , Miao Leiying
Published: November 2020

As an important recycling and degradation system, autophagy is considered to be critical in regulating stem cell differentiation. It has been shown that graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs) are a robust biological labelling tool for stem cells with little cytotoxicity. In this study,
we explored the role of autophagy in regulating the impact of GOQDs on the odontoblastic differentiation of DPSCs during autophagy. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining were used to evaluate the autophagic activity of DPSCs. Quantitative PCR, alizarin red S staining, and alkaline
phosphatase staining were used to examine DPSC odontoblastic differentiation. The impacts of ROS scavengers on autophagy induction and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were also measured. Lentiviral vectors carrying Beclin1 siRNA sequences, as well as autophagy inhibitors (3-MA and bafilomycin
A1), were used to inhibit autophagy. Initial exposure to GOQDs increased autophagic activity and enhanced DPSC mineralization. Autophagy inhibition suppressed GOQD-induced odontoblastic differentiation. Moreover, GOQD treatment induced autophagy in a ROS-dependent manner. GOQDs promoted differentiation,
which could be modulated via ROS-induced autophagy.
Targeted Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer Using an Intelligent Doxorubicin-Loaded Hexapeptide Hydrogel
Authors: Luo Shiyao , Zhu Ying , Li Yiping , Chen Li , Lv Shunzhong , Zhang Yuan , Ge Liang , Zhou Wenwu
Published: November 2020

Self-assembling peptide hydrogels have a high water content, good biocompatibility and have become a competitive research object in the fields of tissue engineering, cancer treatment and drug delivery. In our research, a hexapeptide with high pH sensitivity was designed and synthesized
by utilizing a solid-phase synthesis method. Under physiological conditions, the peptide could self-assemble into a hydrogel. When it reached the tumor acidic microenvironment, the peptide was degraded and doxorubicin was released to exert its antitumor effect. A series of physicochemical
properties were investigated, including gelling ability, secondary structure, micromorphology, rheological properties and drug release studies. The results illustrated that PIDO peptide hydrogel has good pH responsiveness and injectability. In vitro cytotoxicity experiments and in
vivo antitumor experiments showed that PIDO peptide hydrogel has a highly effective therapeutic effect on tumor cells and is less toxic to normal tissues. Our research provides a promising option for targeted drug delivery and sustainable release.
Efficient Treatment of Atherosclerosis by Dexamethasone Acetate and Rapamycin Co-Loaded mPEG-DSPE Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticles
Authors: Luo Xianghong , Fu Hao , Xu Chaoqun , Dong Yang , Wu Zhihua , Li Dongxiao , Sun Ying , Shen Ming , Wang Liting , Li Zhaojun , Duan Yourong
Published: November 2020

Atherosclerosis (AS) is one of the leading causes of vascular disease, producing high morbidity and mortality in many countries. Autophagy plays an important role when cells are facing serious circumstances, such as oxidative stress induced by Ox-LDL (oxidized low-density lipoprotein).
Recent studies have revealed that DEX (dexamethasone acetate) and RAPA (rapamycin) exhibit efficient AS therapeutic ability by protecting endothelial cells and killing foam cells, respectively. Herein, we hypothesize that combining DEX and RAPA together in a specific nanocarrier system can
achieve better AS therapy while limiting harmful effects. As a proof of concept, DEX and RAPA coloaded mPEG2k-DSPE calcium phosphate (CaP) nanoparticles (DR-NPs) were prepared by using a biomineralization method. DR-NPs increased HUVEC survival and induced foam cell apoptosis in
vitro, which were correlated with autophagy activity. DR-NPs efficiently aggregated at AS plaques in the carotid artery and abdominal artery in ApoE– / – mice 24 h after i.v. injection. Moreover, DR-NPs exhibited excellent plaque regression ability, with smaller
necrotic cores and lipid core areas observed after in vivo treatment. Furthermore, the function of vascular endothelial cells was largely promoted, as evidenced by the dramatically decreased expression levels of adhesion factors, such as MMP-2, MMP-9 and ICAM-1. Consequently, DR-NPs
can act as an effective AS therapeutic agent and broaden the AS therapeutic approach by inducing autophagy.
Application of Gold-Based Nanomaterials in Tumor Photothermal Therapy and Chemotherapy
Authors: Zhou Minyu , Zhou Yunfei , Cheng Yixin , Wu Yanqi , Yang Jun , Lv Zhiyue
Published: November 2020

Photothermal therapy (PTT) is a minimally invasive tumor treatment method in which photothermal conversion agents (PTAs) can be enriched in tumor tissue by external light stimulation to convert photon energy into thermal energy to induce the temperature of tumor tissue higher than normal
physiological, and can effectively kill tumor cells and tissues while avoiding damage to healthy tissue. As a well-known biocompatible nanomaterial, gold-based nanomaterials have high photothermal conversion efficiency and cross section, which can be used in tumor targeting therapy treatment
as a potential photothermal conversion agent. Combining PTT and chemotherapy can be achieved by loading a chemotherapeutic drug modified on the surface of a gold nanomaterials. Therefore, this paper first reviews the preparation and surface functionalization of Au-based nanomaterials, such
as Au nanorods, Au nanostars, Au nanoshells, and so on. Second, we have also introduced the application of Au-based nanomaterials in PTT, chemotherapy, and combination therapy. Finally, the limitations and challenges of Au-based photothermal conversion agents are summarized and the development
prospects in this field are prospected.
Hypoxic-Mediated Oxidative Stress Condition and Hydroxyapatite-Inducing Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Mathematical Modeling Study
Authors: Cui Yan Chao , Qiu Yu Sheng , Wu Qiong , Bu Gang , Teh Seoh Wei , He Guo Zhong , Mok Pooi Ling , Samrot Antony V. , Mariappan Rajan , Higuchi Akon , Arulselvan Palanisamy , Rampal Sanjiv Rampal Lekhraj , Muthuvenkatachalam Bala Sundaram , Swamy K. B. , Sun Zhong , Ang Kok Pian , Then Kong Yong , Kumar S. Suresh
Published: November 2020

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the bones remains a major clinical challenge. Fractures in the talus, the scaphoid, and the neck of the femur are especially challenging to heal due to the low blood vessel network and the lack of collateral blood supply. These fractures are associated with
high rates of nonunion and increased infections that require repeated operations. Conventional treatments by autografting or allografting bone replacement and synthetic bone implants have limitations, including the invasiveness of operative procedures, tissue supply insufficiency, and the
risk of host rejection. The advancement in tissue engineering has revealed the potential of stem cells as restorative agents for bone injuries. The administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into the talus, the scaphoid, and the neck of the femur could produce enhanced osteogenesis via
the manipulation of MSC culture conditions. In this study, we used hydroxyapatite as the nanomaterial, and hypoxic milieu to enhance MSC differentiation capacity into the osteogenic lineage, allowing for more rapid and efficient bone cell replacement treatment. Our results demonstrate 1% oxygen
and 12.5 μg/mL of hydroxyapatite (HAP) as the optimal conditions to incorporate the osteogenic medium for the osteogenic induction of MSCs. We also established a proof of concept that the addition of HAP and hypoxic conditions could augment the osteoinductive capacity of MSCs. We
also developed an accurate mathematical model to support future bone cell replacement therapy.
Effect of Harmine and Its Derivatives Against Echinococcus granulosus and Comparison of DNA Damage Targets
Authors: Gong Yuehong , Lv Shunzhong , Tian Chunyan , Gao Yi , Chen Bei , Wen Limei , Gao Huijing , Aimaiti Wusimanjiang , Ma Ruijia , Zhao Jun , Wang Jianhua
Published: November 2020

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a worldwide zoonotic disease. At present, the treatment options of CE are limited. The main drugs used in clinical chemotherapy of echinococcosis are albendazole and mebendazole, but they mainly exert longterm antiparasitic effects based on high doses.
Therefore, there is an urgent need for effective and safe anti-CE drugs. Previous studies have identified harmine (HM) as a new anti-CE drug. In this study, the efficacy of harmine derivatives was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. The harmine derivatives were tested against E.
granulosus protoscoleces (PSC) in vitro. The effect of harmine derivatives was time and concentration dependent at different concentrations, and the anti-CE effect was better than that of harmine. The mortality rate of PSC reached 100% on the 5th day after exposure to harmine derivatives
at a concentration of 100 μmol · L –1. Compared with the untreated model control mice, the weight of the cyst was significantly reduced in infected mice treated with harmine derivatives. The effect of harmine derivatives was better than that of harmine, and
there was significant difference between harmine derivatives and albendazole (P <0.001). Histopathological examination of experimental mice organs (liver, spleen, lung, brain and small intestine) showed that there was no change in the tissues except for mild inflammation in the liver.
The neurotoxicity test in Caenorhabditis elegans showed that the derivative inhibited the movement, feeding, perceptual behavior and acetylcholinesterase activity of C. elegans , and its effect was lower than that of harmine. In addition, intervention with HM derivatives was preliminarily
proved to cause DNA damage. This study reveals the potential of HM derivatives as a new class of anti-CE agents and indicates that Topo2a may be a promising target for the development of anti-CE drugs.
miR-151-3p Inhibits Proliferation and Invasion of Colon Cancer Cell by Targeting Close Homolog of L1
Authors: Yue Chaochi , Chen Xiaochao , Li Jun , Yang Xiangdong , Li Yuanzhi , Wen Yong
Published: November 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world. Cases of colon cancer have experienced dramatic growth for the past few decades in China, while the rate of rectal cancer descends 3% every year in the West. The purpose of this study is to reveal the potential
impact of miR-21-5p on the occurrence process of CRC and its connection with a close homolog of L1 (CHL1). In this study, the expression level of the miR-151-3p was found to be significantly higher in colon adenocarcinoma tissue compared with adjacent normal tissues, while the CHL1 was lower
in colon adenocarcinoma tissues. The expression of miR-151-3p was inversely correlated with the expression of CHL-1, as it was confirmed with correlation analysis. miR-151-3p deregulates the expression of CHL1. CHL1 overexpression can restrain the proliferation and invasion of CRC. Tumorigenesis
experiments showed that the tumor growth rate of CHL1-OV was significantly reduced in mice, and its effect could be reversed by miR-151-3p mimics. Taken together, our study may provide new insights into the potential mechanisms of progression of CRC, and may provide a theory for targeted drug
therapy.
A Review on Antimicrobial Coatings for Biomaterial Implants and Medical Devices
Authors: Chen Long , Song Xinyu , Xing Fei , Wang Yanan , Wang Yuanzheng , He Zhiyu , Sun Li
Published: November 2020

Biomaterial implants and medical devices have been utilized extensively in medical treatment with the development of modern medicine, especially in orthopaedics and stomatology. Along with their applications, biomaterial-associated infections (BAIs) have grown to be one of the main
postoperative complications. Antimicrobial coating strategies have been reported to effectively inhibit bacterial adhesion and proliferation on implant surface, extending their lifespan. In this review, the most topical antimicrobial coating designs have been chosen from literature studies.
Their antimicrobial mechanisms and antimicrobial activity assessments in literature studies have been presented and compared. Based on their active ingredients, antimicrobial coatings are categories into (i) inorganic agents, including Ag, Cu, ZnO, MoS2 and nitride compound; (ii)
organic agents including antibiotic, antimicrobial peptides, polymer, essential oils etc. The review has provided various and detailed options of antimicrobial coating designs for consulting according to their specific application. It is noted that the research of antimicrobial coatings is
mostly in vitro and in vivo animal models study. It is thus in need for more preclinical or clinical studies, especially finding the direct connection between the utilization of antimicrobial coated implants and the reduction in BAIs incidence. Furthermore, future antimicrobial
coating designs shall respect also biocompatibility, functionality, and durability apart from their antimicrobial activity.
Advances in Aptamer Screening and Drug Delivery
Authors: Tang Yujie , Liu Hongna , Chen Hui , Chen Zhu , Liu Yuan , Jin Lian , Deng Yan , Li Song , He Nongyue
Published: November 2020

Chemotherapy is the most commonly used treatment for cancer. However, due to their short circulation time and lack of specific biological distribution, chemotherapeutic drugs cause severe systemic toxicity. Using the agents specifically binding to the targeted molecules might resolve
this dilemma. Aptamers can directly connect with the drugs or couple with the nano-carrier to reduce systemic toxicity. In this review, we elucidated the definition, characteristics and screening process of aptamers. The methods of drug delivery by aptamers were illustrated in details. Furthermore,
clinical application of aptamers in recent years was briefly summarized and its long-term prospects were put forward.
Fluorescent Magnetic Iron Oxide NanoparticleEncapsulated Protein Hydrogel Against Doxorubicin-Associated Cardiotoxicity and for Enhanced Cardiomyocyte Survival
Authors: Dong Pingshuan , Wang Honglei , Xing Shiying , Yang Xuming , Wang Shaoxin , Li Daolin , Zhao Di
Published: November 2020

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely used and effective anticancer drug. However, it shows high cardiotoxicity in several patients. The exact biological mechanisms of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity remain unclear. In the present study, we developed and assessed novel injectable hydrogel matrices
combined with nanoparticles and secretome biomolecules to reduce DOXinduced cytotoxicity in human stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. A Fe2O3 nanoparticle-loaded biocompatible silk sericin nanocomposite form was fabricated and used as an injectable carrier for secretome
for in vivo cardiomyocyte metabolism. The formulated hydrogels carrying secretome were analyzed in vitro for proliferation, migration, and tube formation of human stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. Biological analyses revealed that the secretome-encapsulated florescent Fe3O2
Silk sericin (Sec@MSS) hydrogel markedly reduced calcein-PI dual staining in cardiomyocytes, revealing significantly induced apoptosis. Furthermore, we evaluated the mitochondrial membrane potential for DOX and Sec@MSS hydrogel, and demonstrated apoptosis of the cardiomyocytes in the DOX-alone
and Sec@MSS groups. However, the cardiotoxicity of Sec@MSS sericin was much lower than that in the DOX group, and was further evaluated via VEGFR and TUNEL analyses. The results indicate that Sec@MSS hydrogel might serve as an effective treatment agent in cardiac diseases in the future.
Using Magnetic and Photic Stimuli-Responsive Liposomes to Serve Up Chemotherapy Drugs to Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Junlin , Hao Lingyun , Zhang Xiaojuan , Lin Qing , Liang Dong
Published: November 2020

Liposome is a traditional drug-delivery system and most novel studies have focused on its drug release function. In this paper, a new drug-delivery system based on liposomes was prepared, which contains hydrophobic FeAg alloy nanoparticles (FeAgNPs) in their lipid bilayer and berberine
as test drug in their middle water phase. The size of AgFe-Ls was about 200 nm, the encapsulation efficiency of drugs was 35% and the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of AgFe-Ls was about 41.96 °C. FeAgNPs in the AgFe-Ls had a 1:1 iron-to-silver atomic ratio with both optical
and superparamagnetic properties. The photothermal effect and magnetocaloric effect of FeAgNPs could serve up both photo-stimulated and magnetic- stimulated drug release to liposomes. Release experiments results showed that AgFe-Ls could easily release berberine when stimulated by UV light
(45% drug release at 20 min) or alternating current electromagnetic field (AMF) (80% drug release at 4 h). AgFe-Ls with both photo-controlled and magnetic-controlled drug release functions are promising to serve up chemotherapy drugs to cancer cells.
A Reactive Oxygen Species-Responsive Poly(amino acids) Nanoparticle Loading Doxorubicin for Glioblastoma Multiforme Treatment
Authors: Shi Zhuyan , Yang Jun , Liu Ruiyuan , Liu Linying , Lu Zhiguo , Ji Weihong , Shen Jie , Zhang Xin
Published: November 2020

Amino acids are significant for human life and therefore considered as the crucial nutrients for human body with high biosafety. Due to their high biocompatibilities and various physicochemical properties, their polymers can be applied to construct drug delivery systems for various
diseases' treatments. Among them, glioblastoma multiforme received special attention and numerous efforts regarding to nanotechnology were developed to treat such tumor. However, the biosafety of the delivering materials in those efforts arises as a critical issue in consideration of the weak
patients. Therefore, a ROSresponsive nanoparticle (DOX@PLSPL) with poly(amino acids) encapsulating doxorubicin was developed for glioblastoma multiforme treatment. DOX@PLSPL was constructed by poly-lysine and poly-leucine with high biocompatibility. The high doxorubicin encapsulation efficiency
and the controlled release manner of DOX@PLSPL ensured its high anti-tumor effect. Totally, this DOX@PLSPL can be used as a promising drug delivery system for glioblastoma multiforme treatments.
Increased H3K4me3 methylation and decreased miR-7113-5p expression lead to enhanced Wnt/β-catenin signaling in immune cells from PTSD patients leading to inflammatory phenotype
Authors: Bam Marpe , Yang Xiaoming , Busbee Brandon P. , Aiello Allison E. , Uddin Monica , Ginsberg Jay P. , Galea Sandro , Nagarkatti Prakash S. , Nagarkatti Mitzi
Published: November 2020

Background

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder accompanied by chronic peripheral inflammation. What triggers inflammation in PTSD is currently unclear. In the present study, we identified potential defects in signaling pathways in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from individuals with PTSD.

Methods

RNAseq (5 samples each for controls and PTSD), ChIPseq (5 samples each) and miRNA array (6 samples each) were used in combination with bioinformatics tools to identify dysregulated genes in PBMCs. Real time qRT-PCR (24 samples each) and in vitro assays were employed to validate our primary findings and hypothesis.

Results

By RNA-seq analysis of PBMCs, we found that Wnt signaling pathway was upregulated in PTSD when compared to normal controls. Specifically, we found increased expression of WNT10B in the PTSD group when compared to controls. Our findings were confirmed using NCBI’s GEO database involving a larger sample size. Additionally, in vitro activation studies revealed that activated but not naïve PBMCs from control individuals expressed more IFNγ in the presence of recombinant WNT10B suggesting that Wnt signaling played a crucial role in exacerbating inflammation. Next, we investigated the mechanism of induction of WNT10B and found that increased expression of WNT10B may result from epigenetic modulation involving downregulation of hsa-miR-7113-5p which targeted WNT10B. Furthermore, we also observed that WNT10B overexpression was linked to higher expression of H3K4me3 histone modification around the promotor of WNT10B. Additionally, knockdown of histone demethylase specific to H3K4me3, using siRNA, led to increased expression of WNT10B providing conclusive evidence that H3K4me3 indeed controlled WNT10B expression.

Conclusions

In summary, our data demonstrate for the first time that Wnt signaling pathway is upregulated in PBMCs of PTSD patients resulting from epigenetic changes involving microRNA dysregulation and histone modifications, which in turn may promote the inflammatory phenotype in such cells.
Systematic review of clinical practice guidelines for adults with fractures: identification of best evidence for rehabilitation to develop the WHO’s Package of Interventions for Rehabilitation
Authors:   on behalf of other members of the Technical Working Group, Gimigliano Francesca , Liguori Sara , Moretti Antimo , Toro Giuseppe , Rauch Alexandra , Negrini Stefano , Curci Claudio , Patrini Michele , Peschi Livia , Pournajaf Sanaz , Sgarbanti Maria , Iolascon Giovanni
Published: November 2020

Background

The identification of existing rehabilitation interventions and related evidence represents a crucial step along the development of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Package of Interventions for Rehabilitation (PIR). The methods for such identification have been developed by the WHO Rehabilitation Programme and Cochrane Rehabilitation under the guidance of the WHO’s Guideline Review Committee secretariat. The aim of this paper is to report on the results of the systematic search for clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) relevant to the rehabilitation of adults with fractures and to present the current state of evidence available from the identified CPGs.

Methods

This paper is part of the Best Evidence for Rehabilitation (be4rehab) series, developed according to the methodology presented in the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Package of Interventions for Rehabilitation (PIR) introductory paper. It is a systematic review of existing CPGs on fractures in adult population published from 2009 to 2019.

Results

We identified 23 relevant CPGs after title and abstract screening. According to inclusion/exclusion criteria, we selected 13 CPGs. After checking for quality, publication time, multiprofessionality, and comprehensiveness, we finally included five CPGs dealing with rehabilitative management of fractures in adult population, two CPGs addressing treatment of distal radius fracture and three the treatment of femoral/hip fracture.

Conclusion

The selected CPGs on management of distal radius and femoral/hip fracture include few recommendations regarding rehabilitation, with overall low to very low quality of evidence and weak/conditional strength of recommendation. Moreover, several gaps in specific rehabilitative topics occur. Further high-quality trials are required to upgrade the quality of the available evidence.

Level of evidence

Level 1.
Knowledge, perception and screening of local dye workers regarding urinary bladder cancer in Ghana
Authors: Duduyemi Babatunde M. , Agyemang Divine Lardey , Adankwah Ernest , Nyarko Hannah , Andoh Derrick
Published: November 2020

Background

Cancer is the leading cause of death with 7.6 million deaths worldwide annually. About 19% of bladder cancer cases are attributed to environmental and occupational factors. The knowledge of any disease is very vital in the control or prevention of such disease. This study examined the knowledge and perception of urinary bladder cancer among 104 local dye workers in Ghana (Kumasi, Koforidua and Somanya).

Methods

A well-structured questionnaire was used to measure participants’ knowledge and perception towards bladder cancer. Forty out of the 104 participants were recruited to provide their urine samples for cytomorphological study. Thin smears were prepared and stained with Papanicolaou stain. Respondents were selected based on clinical history and working experience.

Result

The response rate to the questionnaires was 100% of the 104 respondents interviewed. The respondents had a mean age of 26 years. Overall, about 10% of the respondents in this study had good knowledge levels on bladder cancer and 16% had good perception of the disease. There was a significant correlation between knowledge and educational level of the participants (p < 0.001). Report of the cytomorphological study indicates that none of the samples of the participants screened had cancerous cells.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that level of knowledge about bladder cancer among local dye workers in this study was low, while their level of perception was just above average.
The relationship between intraoperative cerebral oximetry and postoperative delirium in patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery: a retrospective study
Authors: Lim Leerang , Nam Karam , Lee Seohee , Cho Youn Joung , Yeom Chan-Woo , Jung Sanghyup , Moon Jung Yoon , Jeon Yunseok
Published: November 2020

Background

Cerebral oximetry has been widely used to measure regional oxygen saturation in brain tissue, especially during cardiac surgery. Despite its popularity, there have been inconsistent results on the use of cerebral oximetry during cardiac surgery, and few studies have evaluated cerebral oximetry during off pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery (OPCAB).

Methods

To evaluate the relationship between intraoperative cerebral oximetry and postoperative delirium in patients who underwent OPCAB, we included 1439 patients who underwent OPCAB between October 2004 and December 2016 and among them, 815 patients with sufficient data on regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) were enrolled in this study. We retrospectively analyzed perioperative variables and the reduction in rSO2below cut-off values of 75, 70, 65, 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, and 35%. Furthermore, we evaluated the relationship between the reduction in rSO2and postoperative delirium.

Results

Delirium occurred in 105 of 815 patients. In both univariable and multivariable analyses, the duration of rSO2reduction was significantly longer in patients with delirium at cut-offs of < 50 and 45% (for every 5 min, adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.007 [95% Confidence interval (CI) 1.001 to 1.014] and adjusted OR 1.012 [1.003 to 1.021];p = 0.024 and 0.011, respectively). The proportion of patients with a rSO2reduction < 45% was significantly higher among those with delirium (adjusted OR 1.737[1.064 to 2.836],p = 0.027).

Conclusions

In patients undergoing OPCAB, intraoperative rSO2reduction was associated with postoperative delirium. Duration of rSO2less than 50% was 40% longer in the patients with postoperative delirium. The cut-off value of intraoperative rSO2that associated with postoperative delirium was 50% for the total patient population and 55% for the patients younger than 68 years.
Comparison of metastasis between early-onset and late-onset gastric signet ring cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Qiang-Ping , Ge Yong-Hua , Liu Cheng-Yuan
Published: November 2020

Background

There is little knowledge to date about the distant metastasis of early-onset gastric signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) or the difference in metastasis based on age. Therefore, we conducted a comprehensive retrospective study using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and data from our hospital.

Methods

Patients were collected from the SEER database and our hospital. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses and propensity score matching (PSM) were used to identify risk factors for metastasis. K-M survival curves were generated to analyse patient survival.

Results

In total, we retrieved 2052 EOGC patients diagnosed with SRCC from the SEER database and included 403 patients from our hospital. K-M survival curves showed that late-onset SRCC patients had worse survival than early-onset patients but that late-onset SRCC patients were less likely to have distant metastasis, as validated by SEER data (OR = 0.462, 95%CI, 0.272–0.787; P = 0.004) and our data (OR = 0.301, 95%CI, 0.135–0.672; P = 0.003). Multivariate logistic regression and PSM analysis revealed that age of 45 or younger was an independent risk factor for distant metastasis.

Conclusion

Our study showed that distant metastasis was more common in early-onset SRCC than in late-onset SRCC. However, further studies are needed to explore the potential aetiologic basis for this disparity.
Epidemiological features of primary glomerular disease in Turkey: a multicenter study by the Turkish Society of Nephrology Glomerular Diseases Working Group
Authors: Turkmen Aydin , Sumnu Abdullah , Cebeci Egemen , Yazici Halil , Eren Necmi , Seyahi Nurhan , Dilek Kamil , Dede Fatih , Derici Ulver , Unsal Abdulkadir , Sahin Garip , Sipahioglu Murat , Gok Mahmut , Tatar Erhan , Dursun Belda , Sipahi Savas , Yilmaz Murvet , Suleymanlar Gultekin , Ulu Sena , Gungor Ozkan , Kutlay Sim , Bahcebasi Zerrin Bicik , Sahin Idris , Kurultak Ilhan , Turkmen Kultigin , Yilmaz Zulfikar , Kazancioglu Rumeyza Turan , Cavdar Caner , Candan Ferhan , Aydin Zeki , Oygar Duriye Deren , Gul Cuma Bulent , Arici Mustafa , Paydas Saime , Taymez Dilek Guven , Kucuk Mehmet , Trablus Sinan , Turgutalp Kenan , Koc Leyla , Sezer Siren , Duranay Murat , Bardak Simge , Altintepe Lutfullah , Arikan Izzet Hakki , Azak Alper , Odabas Ali Riza , Sahin Gulizar Manga , Ozturk Savas
Published: November 2020

Background

The largest data on the epidemiology of primary glomerular diseases (PGDs) are obtained from the databases of countries or centers. Here, we present the extended results of the Primary Glomerular Diseases Study of the Turkish Society of Nephrology Glomerular Diseases (TSN-GOLD) Working Group.

Methods

Data of patients who underwent renal biopsy and received the diagnosis of PGD were recorded in the database prepared for the study. A total of 4399 patients from 47 centers were evaluated between May 2009 and May 2019. The data obtained at the time of kidney biopsy were analyzed. After the exclusion of patients without light microscopy and immunofluorescence microscopy findings, a total of 3875 patients were included in the study.

Results

The mean age was 41.5 ± 14.9 years. 1690 patients were female (43.6%) and 2185 (56.3%) were male. Nephrotic syndrome was the most common biopsy indication (51.7%). This was followed by asymptomatic urinary abnormalities (18.3%) and nephritic syndrome (17.8%). The most common PGD was IgA nephropathy (25.7%) followed by membranous nephropathy (25.6%) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (21.9%). The mean total number of glomeruli per biopsy was 17 ± 10. The mean baseline systolic blood pressure was 130 ± 20 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure was 81 ± 12 mmHg. The median proteinuria, serum creatinine, estimated GFR, and mean albumin values were 3300 (IQR: 1467–6307) mg/day, 1.0 (IQR: 0.7–1.6) mg/dL, 82.9 (IQR: 47.0–113.0) mL/min and 3.2 ± 0.9 g/dL, respectively.

Conclusions

The distribution of PGDs in Turkey has become similar to that in other European countries. IgA nephropathy diagnosed via renal biopsy has become more prevalent compared to membranous nephropathy.
Correlations of apathy with clinical symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and olfactory dysfunctions: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yu Shu-yang , Lian Teng-hong , Guo Peng , Li Li-xia , Ding Du-yu , Li Dan-ning , Liu Li , Zhao Hui , Hu Yang , Zuo Li-jun , Gao Jun-hua , Yu Qiu-jin , Jin Zhao , Wang Rui-dan , Zhu Rong-yan , Wang Xiao-min , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2020

Background

Apathy is one of the most common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), however, correlations of apathy with demographic variables, cognitive functions, neuropsychiatric symptoms, activity of daily living and olfactory functions in AD patients are still lacking comprehensive investigations.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. Total 124 typical AD patients were consecutively recruited from April 2014 to April 2017. In 124 AD patients, 47 cases (37.9%) were male and 77 cases were female; patients’ age were 43–93 years with an average of 68 years. Patients were divided into AD with apathy (AD-A) and AD with no apathy (AD-NA) groups according to the score of Modified Apathy Evaluation Scale, then were evaluated cognitive functions, neuropsychiatric symptoms and activity of daily living, and tested olfactory functions. Above variables were compared between AD-A and AD-NA groups. Further correlation analyses and linear regression analysis were performed between apathy and above variables.

Results

Compared with AD-NA group, global cognitive level, verbal memory, verbal fluency and activity of daily living were significantly compromised in AD-A group (P < 0.002); depression and agitation were severely displayed in AD-A group (P < 0.002). Apathy was negatively correlated with global cognitive function, verbal memory, verbal fluency and activity of daily living (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference of olfactory functions between the two groups (P > 0.002), and correlations between apathy and olfactory threshold, olfactory identification and global olfactory function were significant (P < 0.05) but quite weak (|r| < 0.3). Further linear regression analysis showed that only verbal fluency and instrumental activities of daily living were independently associated with apathy.

Conclusions

Independent correlations among apathy, verbal fluency and instrumental activities of daily living in AD patients might be related to the common brain area involved in their pathogeneses.
Additional factors to corelate with a more than 30% NIHSS score improvement in patients 7 days after fibrinolytic and/or endovascular treatment for ischemic stroke
Authors: Tudor Raluca , Iovanescu Gheorghe , Reisz Daniela , Cornea Amalia , Potre-Oncu Cristina , Tutelca Adrian , Simu Mihaela
Published: November 2020

Background

Our objective was to find which additional factors can influence the favorable result in stroke patients after receiving fibrinolytic and/or endovascular treatment, quantified as a more than 30% improvement of the NIHSS score at 7 days.

Methods

This is a retrospective study to find factors that could influence a favorable evolution of patients with stroke that underwent fibrinolytic and or thrombectomy using the NIHSS score changes. At the admission in the hospital, blood glucose, blood count, coagulation time, INR, aPTT, PT, platelet count, NIHSS questionnaire and ASPECTS score were collected. NIHSS was assessed at the admission, after 1 h, after 2 h, after 24 h and after 7 days.

Results

As compared to the initial evaluation, at 7 days after admission 59% (72) of patients have improved with more than 30% the NIHSS. Higher levels of systolic blood pressure, glycemia and lower ASPECTS score at admission were observed in non-achievers. The value of INR contributed to model: for every unit increase of INR, the chance of better outcome decreases by 90,1%. High glycemia has also a negative impact: for every unit increase, the chance of better outcome decreases by 24%. Higher initial ASPECTS score is associated with better outcomes: each point increase of ASPECTS score at initial evaluation, increases the chance of better outcome by 154.2%.

Conclusion

Males, older age, diabetes, and hyperglycemia correlate with a worse outcome after cerebral stroke regardless of the benefit yielded fibrinolytic and/or thrombectomy therapy. In this study, patients with the above-mentioned factors did not improve more than 30% of baseline NIHSS score from admission to the 7th day.
Recent epidemiology of patients with gastro-entero-pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NEN) in Japan: a population-based study
Authors:   JNETS Project Study Group, Masui Toshihiko , Ito Tetsuhide , Komoto Izumi , Uemoto Shinji
Published: November 2020

Background

The worldwide prevalence and incidence of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) have been increasing recently, although few studies have analyzed data on the current situation of NENs in Japan. Here, the Japan Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (JNETS) planned to investigate the recent incidence and distribution of these tumors using data from the national cancer registry started in 2016. This study examined the incidence and distribution of primary sites as well as rate of advanced disease from this population-based registry.

Methods

A retrospective, population-based study using data from the national cancer registry in Japan (NCR) was conducted to evaluate patients with gastro-entero-pancreatic NEN (GEP-NEN) in 2016. Associated population data were used to determine annual age-adjusted incidences.

Results

A total of 6735 individuals were diagnosed with GEP-NEN in Japan in 2016. Annual onset incidence was 0.70/100,000 for pancreatic NEN and 2.84/100,000 for gastrointestinal NEN. NEN in the ileum accounted for only 1% of total GEP-NENs in Japan. Most NENs in the esophagus or lungs were neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs), while the majority of those in the duodenum, ileum, appendix and rectum were grade 1 neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Median age at initial diagnosis was in between 60 to 65. Tumors in the duodenum, appendix and rectum were mostly limited to local, while those in the esophagus, stomach and colon tended to show distant metastasis. In Japan, initial treatment for GEP-NENs was resection even if the tumor was NEC.

Conclusions

This is the first report of a national registry-based incidence and distribution of GEP-NEN in Japan. These data will serve as an important first step to determining the exact etiology and trends for this pathology in Japan.