bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new distribution record of Memecylon clarkeanum Cogn. (Melastomataceae) to Karnataka from Sharavathi river basin, central Western Ghats, India
Authors: Malve Sathisha Savinaya  , Jogattappa Narayana  , Venkatarangaiah Krishna  , Kalamanji Govindaiah Girish
Published: March 2022

Memecylon clarkeanum Cogn., a vulnerable species, is reported as a new record for Karnataka from primeval sacred forest, Rameshwara Devarakadu of Hulkodu village in the region of Sharavathi river basin, Sagar taluk, Shivamogga district, central Western Ghats. The present discovery highlights the importance of sacred groves in conserving rare, endangered and endemic flora. Prior to this, the species was reported as a new record for India from Kerala in 2012. The present paper illustrates the range extension of the species further towards northern latitudes up to central Western Ghats, Karnataka. The study assessed distributional range, habitat, ecology, status of threat, and vulnerability for planning conservation measures.
First record of Doherty’s Dull Oakblue Arhopala khamti Doherty, 1891 from upper Assam, India
Authors: Singh Arun Pratap
Published: March 2022

The paper gives the first record of Doherty’s Dull Oakblue, Arhopala khamti Doherty, 1891 from Upper Assam which is a rare species known from the region.  The distingusihing features  of this species with it congener Hewitson’s Dull Oakblue A. oenea (Hewitson, [1869]) which has an overlapping range with it in NE India are also given.
Identification of Incident Atrial Fibrillation From Electronic Medical Records
Authors: Chamberlain Alanna M. , Roger Véronique L. , Noseworthy Peter A. , Chen Lin Y. , Weston Susan A. , Jiang Ruoxiang , Alonso Alvaro
Published: March 2022

Background

Electronic medical records are increasingly used to identify disease cohorts; however, computable phenotypes using electronic medical record data are often unable to distinguish between prevalent and incident cases.

Methods and Results

We identified all Olmsted County, Minnesota residents aged ≥18 with a first‐ever
International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD‐9)
diagnostic code for atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter from 2000 to 2014 (N=6177), and a random sample with an
International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD‐10)
code from 2016 to 2018 (N=200). Trained nurse abstractors reviewed all medical records to validate the events and ascertain the date of onset (incidence date). Various algorithms based on number and types of codes (inpatient/outpatient), medications, and procedures were evaluated. Positive predictive value (PPV) and sensitivity of the algorithms were calculated. The lowest PPV was observed for 1 code (64.4%), and the highest PPV was observed for 2 codes (any type) >7 days apart but within 1 year (71.6%). Requiring either 1 inpatient or 2 outpatient codes separated by >7 days but within 1 year had the best balance between PPV (69.9%) and sensitivity (95.5%). PPVs were slightly higher using
ICD‐10
codes. Requiring an anticoagulant or antiarrhythmic prescription or electrical cardioversion in addition to diagnostic code(s) modestly improved the PPVs at the expense of large reductions in sensitivity.

Conclusions

We developed simple, exportable, computable phenotypes for atrial fibrillation using structured electronic medical record data. However, use of diagnostic codes to identify incident atrial fibrillation is prone to some misclassification. Further study is warranted to determine whether more complex phenotypes, including unstructured data sources or using machine learning techniques, may improve the accuracy of identifying incident atrial fibrillation.
Wnt Site Signaling Inhibitor Secreted Frizzled‐Related Protein 3 Protects Mitral Valve Endothelium From Myocardial Infarction–Induced Endothelial‐to‐Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Alvandi Zahra , Nagata Yasufumi , Passos Livia Silva Araúujo , Hashemi Gheinani Ali , Guerrero J. Luis , Wylie‐Sears Jill , Romero Dayana Carolina , Morris Brittan A. , Sullivan Suzanne M. , Yaghoubian Koushiar M. , Alvandi Amirhossein , Adam Rosalyn M. , Aikawa Elena , Levine Robert A. , Bischoff Joyce
Published: March 2022

Background

The onset and mechanisms of endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in mitral valve (MV) leaflets following myocardial infarction (MI) are unknown, yet these events are closely linked to stiffening of leaflets and development of ischemic mitral regurgitation. We investigated whether circulating molecules present in plasma within days after MI incite EndMT in MV leaflets.

Methods and Results

We examined the onset of EndMT in MV leaflets from 9 sheep with inferior MI, 8 with sham surgery, and 6 naïve controls. Ovine MVs 8 to 10 days after inferior MI displayed EndMT, shown by increased vascular endothelial cadherin/α‐smooth muscle actin–positive cells. The effect of plasma on EndMT in MV endothelial cells (VECs) was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, migration assays, and immunofluorescence. In vitro, post‐MI plasma induced EndMT marker expression and enhanced migration of mitral VECs; sham plasma did not. Analysis of sham versus post‐MI plasma revealed a significant drop in the Wnt signaling antagonist sFRP3 (secreted frizzled‐related protein 3) in post‐MI plasma. Addition of recombinant sFRP3 to post‐MI plasma reversed its EndMT‐inducing effect on mitral VECs. RNA‐sequencing analysis of mitral VECs exposed to post‐MI plasma showed upregulated FOXM1 (forkhead box M1). Blocking FOXM1 reduced EndMT transcripts in mitral VECs treated with post‐MI plasma. Finally, FOXM1 induced by post‐MI plasma was downregulated by sFRP3.

Conclusions

Reduced sFRP3 in post‐MI plasma facilitates EndMT in mitral VECs by increasing the transcription factor FOXM1. Restoring sFRP3 levels or inhibiting FOXM1 soon after MI may provide a novel strategy to modulate EndMT in the MV to prevent ischemic mitral regurgitation and heart failure.
Impact of Implicit Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening in the Veterans Affairs Health Care System Over 10 Years
Authors: Leach Joseph R. , Shen Hui , Huo Eugene , Hope Thomas A. , Mitsouras Dimitrios , Whooley Mary A. , Hope Michael D.
Published: March 2022

Background

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening programs have been active in the United States since 2005, but are not the only way AAAs are detected. AAA management and outcomes have not been investigated broadly in the context of “implicit AAA screening,” whereby radiologic examinations not intended for focused screening can identify AAAs.

Methods and Results

We examined the association between imaging‐based AAA screening, both explicit and implicit, and various outcomes for ≈1.6 million veterans in the Veterans Affairs health care system from 2005 to 2015. Screened‐positive, screened‐negative, and unscreened veterans were identified in the overall cohort and within a subgroup of veterans aged 65 years in 2005. The yearly composite screening rate increased over 10 years, from 11.7% to 18.3%, whereas the screened‐positive rate decreased from 7.3% to 4.9%. Only 12.9% of screening examinations were explicit AAA screening ultrasounds. The subgroup’s composite screening rate was 74% within its 10‐year eligibility window, with implicit screening accounting for 91.8% of examinations. In the 2005 subgroup, all‐cause mortality and Charlson comorbidity scores were higher for veterans who underwent screening compared with those unscreened (31.2% versus 23.1% and 0.47 versus 0.25, respectively;
P
<0.001). AAA rupture rates were similar between those unscreened and screened‐negative individuals.

Conclusions

Accounting for both explicit and implicit screening, AAA screening in the Veterans Affairs population has moderate reach. Efforts to expand explicit AAA screening are not likely to impact either all‐cause mortality or AAA rupture on the population scale as significantly as a careful accounting for and use of implicit screening data.
Checklist of decapod crustaceans from the coast of the São Paulo state (Brazil) supported by integrative molecular and morphological data: V. Dendrobranchiata and Pleocyemata [Achelata, Astacidea, Axiidea, Caridea (Alpheoidea and Processoidea excluded), Gebiidea, Stenopodidea]
Authors: MANTELATTO FERNANDO L. , TAMBURUS ANA F. , CARVALHO-BATISTA ABNER , ROSSI NATALIA , BURANELLI RAQUEL C. , PANTALEÃO JOÃO A.F. , TELES JENIFFER N. , ZARA FERNANDO J. , CARVALHO FABRICIO L. , BOCHINI GABRIEL L. , TEROSSI MARIANA , ROBLES RAFAEL , CASTILHO ANTONIO L. , COSTA ROGÉRIO C.
Published: March 2022

This checklist is the fifth and last compilation on the decapod crustaceans reported to São Paulo (Brazil) coastal area, resulting from long-term multidisciplinary projects, which combined morphological analyses and molecular techniques. The current research includes 75 decapod species, herein referred as shrimps/lobsters-like (shrimps, ghost-shrimps, lobsters, and related groups), reported to São Paulo coastal area. These species occur in marine, estuarine, and amphidromous habitats and are classified into 21 families as follow: Aristeidae (2 spp., 2 genera), Atyidae (4 spp., 2 genera), Axianassidae (1 sp., 1 genus), Callianassidae (1 sp., 1 genus), Callichiridae (6 spp., 4 genera), Crangonidae (1 sp., 1 genus), Glyphocrangonidae (1 sp., 1 genus), Luciferidae (2 spp., 2 genera), Nephropidae (4 spp., 2 genera), Palaemonidae (15 spp., 9 genera), Palinuridae (2 spp., 1 genus), Pandalidae (1 sp., 1 genus), Pasiphaeidae (1 sp., 1 genus), Penaeidae (10 spp., 6 genera), Sergestidae (3 spp., 3 genera), Sicyoniidae (4 spp., 1 genus), Scyllaridae (5 spp., 3 genera), Solenoceridae (4 spp., 3 genera), Stenopodidae (2 spp., 1 genus), and Upogebiidae (6 spp., 1 genus). We generated new sequences of cytochrome oxidase subunit I (barcode region) and 16S genes (51 and 54, respectively) of 54 species. Our examination concluded that 75 shrimps/lobsters-like species are reported to the São Paulo coast. We excluded Leander tenuicornis (Palaemonidae), Penaeus setiferus (Penaeidae), Philocheras gorei (Crangonidae), and Rhynchocinetes typus (Rhynchocinetidae) from this list.
Taxonomic revision of Paraphasma Redtenbacher, 1906
(Phasmatodea, Pseudophasmatidae) based on phallic and external morphology
Authors: CHIQUETTO-MACHADO PEDRO I. , MORALES ADRIANA C. , CANCELLO ELIANA M. CANCELLO
Published: March 2022

Paraphasma Redtenbacher, 1906 is a genus of fully-winged stick insects occurring in central and northern South America. We carried out a morphology-based taxonomic revision of this genus with emphasis on the phallic organ, a structure that has been poorly explored for taxonomic purposes in Phasmatodea. Additionally, pairwise genetic distances between mitochondrial COI gene sequences were calculated for ten Paraphasma specimens representing six species. We recognize nine valid species in the genus plus one nomen dubium, Paraphasma fasciatum Gray, 1835. We redescribe Paraphasma and the species previously assigned to it, describe Paraphasma indistinctum Chiquetto-Machado sp. nov., Paraphasma sooretama Chiquetto-Machado sp. nov. and Paraphasma spinicauda Chiquetto-Machado sp. nov., and provide a key to the species in the genus. The male of Paraphasma minus Redtenbacher, 1906 is described for the first time, as well as the eggs of six species. We transfer Paraphasma amabile Redtenbacher, 1906 to Pseudophasma Kirby, 1896 (comb. nov.) and synonymize Pseudophasma xanthotaenidium Günther, 1930 under this species (syn. nov.). In addition, Phasma perspicillaris Stoll, 1813 is removed from the synonymy of Paraphasma laterale (Fabricius, 1775) and synonymized under Parastratocles xanthomela (Olivier, 1792) (syn. nov.). The examination of the phallic organ was essential for species delimitation, as most species of Paraphasma are very similar in the external morphology of both sexes. The analysis of the COI sequences supported the species delimitation, resulting in remarkably lower pairwise distances between conspecific individuals (p-distance ≤ 2.0%) than between different species (p-distance 6.9–17.5%). We hope that this paper will stimulate further studies exploring the taxonomic and phylogenetic potential of the internal male genitalia of stick insects.
Knockdown of PFKFB2 Alleviates Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in LPS-Induced Alveolar Epithelial Cells by Reducing Glycolysis
Authors: Wang Chang , Xu Zhenyu , Liu Juntao
Published: March 2022

Glycolysis is the most important mode of energy metabolism in endothelial cells and has been shown to be involved in the pathological processes of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. Phosphofructokinase 2/fructose-2, 6-bisphosphatase 2 (PFKFB2) exerts an important regulatory factor
in the process of glycolysis by catalyzing the synthesis and degradation of fructose 2,6-bisphosphate. There is still unclear however, whether PFKFB2 can play a role in sepsis-related acute lung injury by regulating glycolysis. This research examines the role and mechanism of PFKFB2 in LPS-induced
alveolar epithelial cells. In this study, the detection of mRNA expressions of PFKFB2, glycolysis and inflammation-related proteins employed quantitative real-time PCR (RTqPCR). Western blot was applied to examine the expressions of all proteins. The viability of A549 cells was assessed with
the use of cell counting kit (CCK)-8. The expressions of related factors were quantified by commercial assay kits, respectively. The experimental results showed that the expression of PFKFB2 was increased in sepsis. Knockdown of PFKFB2 alleviated glycolysis in LPS-induced A549 cells. Additionally,
knockdown of PFKFB2 reduced LPS-induced oxidative stress and inflammation through glycolysis. Knockdown of PFKFB2 also mitigated LPS-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in alveolar epithelial cells by reducing glycolysis. Hence, PFKFB2 may be served as an effective target for the treatment
of sepsis-related acute lung injury.
Src Homology 2 Domain Containing Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase-2 (SHP2) Combined with Dental Pulp Stem Cells Promote the Effect of Angiogenesis
Authors: Zhang Qian , Huang Xing , Xiu Yihong , Quan Yaping , Muhetaer Huojia , Liu Tao
Published: March 2022

Pulpitis is one of the most important dental diseases. How to improve the blood circulation in the infected and necrotic area of pulp is the current research hotspot in the treatment of pulpitis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have similar regeneration and differentiation ability to
the pluripotent stem cells, and can differentiate into various tissues under certain induced conditions. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) extracted from dental pulp, which have stronger proliferation ability and stability, and are more ideal seed cells for the treatment of pulpitis. Research
show that Src homology 2 domain containing SHP2 can promote blood vessel growth. In this subject, we studied the angiogenesis of SHP2 combined with dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) transplantation. SHP2 and DPSCs were co cultured with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The proliferation
and migration of endothelial cells were detected by Wound Healing Assays. At the same time, the effect of SHP2+DPSC on endothelial cell angiogenesis was examined by tube formation test. The expression of angiogenesis related cytokines including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF),
von willebrand factor (vWF), Angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) and Cdc42/Rac1 signal pathway were also detected by Western blot. Our results demonstrated that SHP2 combined with DPSCs can advance endothelial cell angiogenesis. Meanwhile, SHP2+ DPSC obviously increased VEGF, Ang-1 and vWF expression.
SHP2+DPSC significantly raise the Cdc42/Rac1 signal pathway in HUVECs. Our data illustrate that SHP2 combined with DPSCs can promote the effect of angiogenesis in pulpitis.
Mannose-6-Phosphate Reduces Expression of Transforming Growth Factor β and Receptors in Rabbit Flexor Tendon Tenocytes
Authors: Chao Wan , Hui Huang , Shuchun Wang , Changsuo Xia , Rongrong Dou , Chenlei Xia
Published: March 2022

Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) plays an important role in tendon healing and adhesion formation. Inhibiting expression of TGF-β and receptors might prevent adhesion after tendon injury and/or opening surgeries. Here, we aimed to examine the
effects of mannose-6-phosphate (M6P), an inhibitor of TGF-β as a natural plant compound, on expression of TGF-β and receptors in tendon sheath fibroblasts, epitenon tenocytes, and endotenon tenocytes that were isolated from rabbit flexor toes. We enriched tendon sheath
fibroblasts, epitenon tenocytes, as well as endotenon tenocytes from rabbit flexor tendons, and subsequently cultured these cell types individually. All 3 cell types were grouped into 2 groups randomly: the experiment group supplemented with M6P (the M6P Group), and the Control Group treated
with vehicle. Expression of TGF-β and receptors was assessed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. TGF-β1 expression in the mRNA level was also assessed by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Expression of TGF-β and receptors in the
M6P Group was remarkably lower than that in the Control Group across all 3 cell types (P < 0.05). In the M6P Group, the expression ratio of TGF-β1 mRNA and the expression level of intracellular TGF-β1 mRNA in 3 cell types were significantly decreased than
those in the Control Group (P < 0.05). Therefore, expression of TGF-β1 was significantly lower in all three types of tendon cell treated with M6P. Collectively, M6P is a negative regulator of TGF-β and receptors in cultured rabbit tendon sheath fibroblasts,
epitenon tenocytes, and endotenon tenocytes.
Long Non-Coding RNA X-Inactive Specific Transcript (LncRNA Xist) Improves the Repair of Nerve Function in Spinal Cord Injury Models via Targeting CXC Motif Chemokine Receptor 4 (CXCR4) in Bone Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs)
Authors: Zhou Xinhua , Shen Shiyun , Cao Liwen , Li Xia
Published: March 2022

This study assessed the effect of lncRNA Xist on the repair of neural function in spinal cord injury (SCI) model. Rat SCI model was established and assigned into blank group, Mock siRNA group and Xist siRNA group followed by analysis of the differentiation of BMSCs and rats’ neural
functional recovery. The volume of mineralized nodule and quantity of LD in Xist siRNA group was significantly higher than control group and Mock siRNA group (P < 0.05). The expression of RUNX2, ALP, OCN, lncRNA Xist, and CXCR4 in Xist siRNA group was also significantly increased
compared to other two groups (P < 0.05) along with elevated cell proliferation rate in Xist siRNA group. However, no differences of above parameters were found between control group and Mock siRNA group (P > 0.05). In conclusion, lncRNA Xist promotes the repair of rats’
neurological function and the adilpogenesis and osteogenesis differentiation of BMSCs via targeting CXCR4 in SCI model, indicating that it might be a novel target for treating SCI.
Astragalus Polysaccharides Affect Glioblastoma Cells Through Targeting miR-34a-5p
Authors: Liu Hongjun , Qi Lingjun , Tang Xiaoping , Tan Shasha , Gou Zhangyang , Qi Jian , Lu Xingyu , Li Dong , Chen Chunbao
Published: March 2022

This study discussed Astragalus Polysaccharides (APS)’s effect on the cytobiology of glioma. U87 glioma cells were assigned into control group (U87 cells), miR-34a-5p mimic group (transfected with miR-34a-5p mimic), and APS group (treated with 10 μM APS) followed by
analysis of miR-34a-5p level, cell proliferation and invasion, Caspase3 and SOD activity as well as E-cadherin, Vimentin and survivn expression. APS treatment significantly upregulated miR-34a-5p expression, inhibits cell proliferation and invasion, and promoted cell apoptosis. In addition,
APS also significantly upregulated E-cadherin, downregulated Vimentin and survivn level in glioma cells as well as inhibited ROS generation and increased SOD activity. In conclusion, the level of miR-34a-5a in glioma cells is up-regulated by APS so as to restrain the biological behaviors of
glioma cells, indicating that it might be used as novel agent for the treatment of glioma.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs)-Triggered Up-Regulation of miR-1297/NLR Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3 (NLRP3) Facilitates the Aggressive Proliferation of Lung Cancer Cells via Inducing Inflammatory Factor Release
Authors: Liang Xiujun , Sun Tongyou , Cui Yujie , Zhou Shuo , Liang Xiujun
Published: March 2022

miR-1297 derived from BMSC-originated exosomes participates in modulating multiple malignancies. Our study aims to clarify the effect of miR-1297 derived from BMSC-originated exosomes on the oxidative stress and inflammatory damage of lung cancer cells. miR-1297 and NLRP3 level was
measured in lung cancer tissues and para-cancerous tissues, as well as in lung cancer cell lines and pulmonary epithelial cells. After miR-1297-mimics transfection or BMSC co-cultivation, cell viability was assessed by MTT and cytokines were evaluated by ELISA along with analysis of SOD activity
and cell apoptosis. miR-1297 and NLRP3 were significantly elevated in lung cancer tissues and cell lines. Overexpression of miR-1297 enhanced oxidative stress and inflammatory response, along with increased cell viability and decreased apoptosis. Additionally, co-culture with BMSC protect
the viability of lung cancer cells by facilitating miR-1297/NLRP3. In conclusion, a significant elevation of miR-1297 is found in lung cancer tissues and cells. Its overexpression induced the release of inflammatory factors, thereby protecting the proliferating activity of lung cancer cells
and restraining apoptosis, indicating that miR-1297 may serve a promising target for early diagnosis of lung cancers.
miR-320 Overexpression Affects Lung Cancer Macrophage M2 Polarization Through Targeting Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGFA)
Authors: Zhu Xiaodong , Xu Yi , Deng Zhongbiao
Published: March 2022

miR-320 overexpression’s effect on macrophages polarization in lung cancer was assessed to seek the related therapeutic target for providing theoretical foundation on drug development. THP-1 and A549 cell was induced into macrophage M2 type and then divided into no-polarization
group (MΦ) and M2 type of macrophage’s polarization group (M2). Cells were transfected with miR-320mimic and assigned into BC group, NC group and miR-320mimic group followed by analysis of TGF-β level by ELISA, TNF-α, IL-1β, CCL22, CCL17
and VEGFA level by real-time PCR, VEGFA, CCL22 and IL-1β protein level by western blot, as well as CD206 level by flow cytometry. The proportion of CD206+ cell was significantly increased after induction with the elevated CCL22 and CCL17 mRNA level. There was no significance
of TNF-α, IL-1β RNA level between two groups (P > 0.05). TGF-β level was significantly increased in macrophage of M2 type. CCL2 and VEGFA level was lower and IL-1β was higher in miR-320 overexpression group than other two groups (P
< 0.05). In conclusion, macrophage polarization in lung cancer influenced by VEGFA could be regulated by miR-320 overexpression.
Analysis of the Effects of Curculin on Neuronal Cells, Glutamate Transporter Solute Carrier Family 1, Learning and Memory in Alzheimer’s Disease Rats
Authors: Huang Nianping , Xiang Taoying , Huang Xinquan
Published: March 2022

Our study assessed curculin’s effects on neurons, GLT-1, and behavioral learning ability of AD rats. 40 rats were divided randomly into low curculoside group (CAS1 group), high curculoside group (CAS2 group), normal group (WG group) and model group (GS group) (stereotactic injection
of Aβ into hippocampus) followed by analysis of learning ability by Y-maze, GLT-1 level by immunofluorescence histochemistry, neuron morphology by HE staining, GLU content by HPLC, GLT-1 level by western blot, and apoptosis by TUNEL assay. Compared with WG group, GS group had significantly
elevated number of exercises and wrong actions, total reaction time and Glu content (20.52±2.09 μmol/L versus 7.51±1.21 μmol/L) and reduced GLT-1 level (0.47±0.06 versus 1.23±0.07) (P < 0.01). In addition, increased apoptosis rate was
found in GS group (69.78±9.97) compared to WG group (8.42±2.13) (P < 0.01). Compared with GS group, CAS1 and CAS2 groups had improved changes (P < 0.01) with more improvement in CAS2 group than CAS1 group. In conclusion, curculoside can inhibit GLU expression,
reduce neuronal cell apoptosis, and improve the learning ability of AD rats, which may be related to the inhibition of GLT-1 in AD rats.
CircRNA8924-Transfected Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) Affects the Biological Behaviors of Hela Cells
Authors: Zhang Jing , Wang Yuanyuan , Liu Meng , Meng Shanshan , Liu Fei , Rong Yanjun
Published: March 2022

This study investigated the effect of BMSCs transfected with CircRNA8924 on biological behaviors of Hela cells. The transfected BMSCs was then co-cultured with Hela cells and divided into CircRNA8924 mimic group, CircRNA8924 inhibitor group, and CircRNA8924 NC group followed by analysis
of cell proliferation, apoptosis, migrated and invaded capacity as well as CirRNA8924 and CBX8 expression. CircRNA8924 mimic group showed highest CircRNA8924 expression followed by NC group and Inhibitor group. CircRNA8924 Inhibitor group presented significantly reduced cell proliferation
and cells at S stage, decreased cell migrated and invaded capacity and elevated cell apoptotic activity (P < 0.05) compared to other two groups. In addition, significantly downregulated CircRNA8924 and CBX8 was also found in CircRNA8924 Inhibitor group (P < 0.05). In conclusion,
BMSCs transfected with CircRNA8924 could down-regulate CBX8 and CircRNA8924 so as to exert regulatory action on the biological behaviors of Hela cells, indicating that CBX8 might be a therapeutic target for treating cervical cancer.
MicroRNA-1592 in the Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Inhibits the Glioma Development In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Zhang Panpan , Wang Geng , Zhou Fengquan , Wang Yingyi
Published: March 2022

This study evaluated the role of miRNA-1592 (miR-1592) carried by exosomes that originated from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) in glioma. BMSCs were cultured and identified, followed by being co-cultured with glioma cells to measure cell invasion, metastasis, and apoptosis
by transwell assay and flow cytometry, cell proliferation by MTT, PI3K/AKT signal protein expression by western blot. BMSC-originated exosomes with different concentrations were used as a treatment strategy for established tumor models. The tumor volume was measured and tumor tissues were
harvested for immunohistochemistry and immunoblot analysis. After co-culture with BMSC-originated exosomes, glioma cells showed an up-regulated transcription of miR-1592, along with inhibited phosphorylation and activation of PI3K/AKT signal pathway. Moreover, glioma cells exhibited reduced
migration and invasiveness In Vitro, which was accompanied by diminished levels of proteins involved in cellular invasiveness. Simultaneously, co-culture with BMSC-originated exosomes can restrain glioma cell proliferation via facilitating cell apoptosis In Vivo and In Vitro.
In conclusion, exosome-encapsulated microRNA-1592 from BMSCs can suppress the In Vivo and In Vitro development of glioma through interfering with PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
The Influence of Intraseasonal Oscillations on Humid Heat in the Persian Gulf and South Asia
Authors: Ivanovich Catherine , Anderson Weston , Horton Radley , Raymond Colin , Sobel Adam
Published: March 2022

Humans’ essential ability to combat heat stress through sweat-based evaporative cooling is modulated by ambient air temperature and humidity, making humid heat a critical factor for human health. In this study, we relate the occurrence of extreme humid heat in two focus regions to two related modes of intraseasonal climate variability: the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) and the boreal summer intraseasonal oscillation (BSISO). In the Persian Gulf and South Asia during the May–June and July–August seasons, wet-bulb temperatures of 28°C are found to be almost twice as likely during certain oscillation phases than in others. Variations in moisture are found, to varying degrees, to be an important ingredient in anomalously high wet-bulb temperatures in all three areas studied, influenced by distinct local circulation anomalies. In the Persian Gulf, weakening of climatological winds associated with the intraseasonal oscillation’s propagating center of convection allows for anomalous onshore advection of humid air. Anomalously high wet-bulb temperatures in the northwestern region of South Asia are closely aligned with positive specific humidity anomalies associated with the convectively active phase of the oscillation. On the southeastern coast of India, high wet-bulb temperatures are associated with convectively inactive phases of the intraseasonal oscillation, suggesting that they may be driven by increased surface insolation and reduced evaporative cooling during monsoon breaks. Our results aid in building a foundation for subseasonal predictions of extreme humid heat in regions where it is highly impactful.

Significance Statement

Understanding when and why extreme humid heat occurs is essential for informing public health efforts protecting against heat stress. This analysis works to improve our understanding of humid heat variability in two at-risk regions, the Persian Gulf and South Asia. By exploring how subseasonal oscillations affect daily extreme events, this analysis helps bridge the prediction gap between weather and climate. We find that extreme humid heat is more than twice as likely during specific phases of these oscillations than in others. Extremes depend to different extents upon combinations of above-average temperature and humidity. This new knowledge of the regional drivers of humid heat variability is important to better prepare for the increasingly widespread health and socioeconomic impacts of heat stress.
Deep-Current Intraseasonal Variability Interpreted as Topographic Rossby Waves and Deep Eddies in the Xisha Islands of the South China Sea
Authors: Shu Yeqiang , Wang Jinghong , Xue Huijie , Huang Rui Xin , Chen Ju , Wang Dongxiao , Wang Qiang , Xie Qiang , Wang Weiqiang
Published: March 2022

Strong subinertial variability near a seamount at the Xisha Islands in the South China Sea was revealed by mooring observations from January 2017 to January 2018. The intraseasonal deep flows presented two significant frequency bands, with periods of 9–20 and 30–120 days, corresponding to topographic Rossby waves (TRWs) and deep eddies, respectively. The TRW and deep eddy signals explained approximately 60% of the kinetic energy of the deep subinertial currents. The TRWs at the Ma, Mb, and Mc moorings had 297, 262, and 274 m vertical trapping lengths, and ∼43, 38, and 55 km wavelengths, respectively. Deep eddies were independent from the upper layer, with the largest temperature anomaly being >0.4°C. The generation of the TRWs was induced by mesoscale perturbations in the upper layer. The interaction between the cyclonic–anticyclonic eddy pair and the seamount topography contributed to the generation of deep eddies. Owing to the potential vorticity conservation, the westward-propagating tilted interface across the eddy pair squeezed the deep-water column, thereby giving rise to negative vorticity west of the seamount. The strong front between the eddy pair induced a northward deep flow, thereby generating a strong horizontal velocity shear because of lateral friction and enhanced negative vorticity. Approximately 4 years of observations further confirmed the high occurrence of TRWs and deep eddies. TRWs and deep eddies might be crucial for deep mixing near rough topographies by transferring mesoscale energy to small scales.
The Effect of Supplemental Reading Instruction on Fluency Outcomes for Children With Down Syndrome: A Closer Look at Curriculum-Based Measures
Authors: King Seth , Rodgers Derek , Lemons Christopher J.
Published: March 2022

Research supports the efficacy of intensive literacy instruction for children with moderate intellectual disabilities and Down syndrome (DS). However, much of the literature features measures closely aligned with evaluated interventions. Despite their increasing role in instruction, curriculum-based measures (CBM) are rarely featured in reading studies involving DS. Increasing the use of CBM in research has the potential to provide insight into the effectiveness of intervention and address concerns regarding the utility of approaches predicated on CBM. This single-case design study used CBM to examine the performance of children with DS ( N  =  17) who had largely exhibited gains on intervention-aligned measures following an intensive reading intervention. Results of multilevel modeling were mixed, with significant ( p < .05) effects relegated to letter- and first-sound fluency. No more than 29% of participants met goals created using a procedure derived from CBM. Findings have implications for future studies and implementation of literacy interventions for children with DS.
Mobile Health Application for Seizure Management: A Human-Systems Integration Approach
Authors: Lazaro May Jorella , Alvaran Alysson , Yun Myung Hwan , Kim Sungho
Published: March 2022

Objective

The study aims to develop a mHealth application for seizure management based on the human system integration (HSI) approach.

Background

Unmet healthcare needs among people with epilepsy continue to exist despite the advancement in healthcare technology. Current seizure management methods are found to be ineffective. Therefore, a more efficient strategy such as mHealth technology is necessary to aid seizure management.

Method

The needs identification phase involved identifying the user requirements by interviewing 10 stakeholders and conducting thematic analysis and needs interpretation technique. In the solution identification phase, the system requirements were derived using various human-centered design and systems engineering approaches and were evaluated through quality function deployment to determine design targets. For the design and evaluation phase, the design targets were reflected in the app through the iterative prototyping process, and the interface and functional design were evaluated by seven human factors and ergonomics experts and four stakeholders, respectively.

Results

Three primary needs and ten user requirements were derived from the needs identification phase. Ten out of fifteen system requirements were selected as design targets to be included in the final prototype. Results of the evaluation showed that the interface design of the proposed app showed superior usability compared to a competitor app and that the app functions were beneficial for the stakeholders.

Conclusion

The mHealth app designed through the HSI framework showed good potential in addressing the main issues in seizure management.

Application

The mHealth app design methodology based on the HSI approach can be applied to the design of small-scale systems in various domains.
Who We Are and How We Govern: The Effect of Identity Orientation on Governance Choice
Authors: Heide Jan B. , Bell Simon J. , Tracey Paul
Published: March 2022

The authors draw on emerging research in organization theory to suggest how different firm-level identity orientations (individualistic, relational, or collectivistic) impact governance choice. They develop a conceptual framework that focuses on the relationship between a focal firm’s own identity orientation and that of a value chain partner. The framework identifies a series of match and mismatch scenarios, where the latter represent unique governance problems that are not accounted for by existing theory. Some of the mismatch scenarios involve pseudo-matches that resemble convergent orientations between parties but actually represent governance problems. Theoretically, this framework advances the governance literature by providing a comprehensive and nuanced account of (1) the orientations that parties bring to bear on a relationship, and (2) how their effects vary depending on the interdependence structure between the parties. The authors also advance the general literature on identity orientation by connecting it to concrete governance practices, by showing how multiple internal identity orientations create unique internal governance challenges, and by delineating two possible solutions to these challenges. They rely on the framework to develop managerial guidelines for governance choice.
Dealing with guilt and shame in international politics
Authors: Bassan-Nygate Lotem , Heimann Gadi
Published: March 2022

State and non-state actors often try to provoke moral emotions like guilt and shame to mobilize political change. However, tactics such as `naming and shaming’ are often ineffective, suggesting that policy makers engage in norm violations in ways that minimize moral emotions. We argue that when violating norms, decision makers deal with guilt and shame through coping mechanisms that allow them to pursue policies that contradict their moral standards. We conceptualize guilt and shame as two separate phenomena that provoke distinct reactions. Shame is more likely to provoke immature defenses like denial and distortion, while guilt provokes a more mature and reparative reaction. We provide empirical evidence for this theory by examining two crucial issues on the state of Israel’s political agenda during the first decade of its existence. We analyze political debates over the return of the Palestinian refugees and the reparation agreement between Israel and West Germany, using a series of primary sources from three different political forums.
A Friend-or-Foe framework for multi-agent reinforcement learning policy generation in mixing cooperative–competitive scenarios
Authors: Sun Yu , Lai Jun , Cao Lei , Chen Xiliang , Xu Zhixiong , Lian Zhen , Fan Huijin
Published: March 2022

Although multi-agent deep deterministic policy gradient is a classic deep reinforcement learning algorithm in multi-agent systems. It also has critical problems such as poor training stability and low policy robustness, which significantly limit the capability and application of the algorithm. So this article proposes an improved algorithm called friend-or-foe multi-agent deep deterministic policy gradient for solving the above problems. The main innovations are as follows: (1) inspired by the concept of friend-or-foe game theory, we modified the framework of the original multi-agent deep deterministic policy gradient by using two identical training networks with agents’ optimal and worst actions input, which improves the robustness of training policies, and (2) we propose an action perturbation technique based on gradient-descent to expand the selection range of actions, thereby improving training stability of our proposing algorithm. Finally, we conducted multiple sets of comparative experiments between our friend-or-foe multi-agent deep deterministic policy gradient and original one in four authoritative mixed cooperative–competitive scenarios. The results show that our improving algorithm can simultaneously improve the training stability and the robustness of agents’ generating policies in different complicated environments.
Migration of a Fish Bone From the Esophagus to the Thyroid Gland
Authors: Huang Hsiao-Yu , Wang Chien-Chung
Published: March 2022

Accidental swallowing of fish bone is one of the most common emergencies in the otolaryngology department. The impacted fish bones are usually found in the palatine tonsil, base of the tongue, valleculae, pyriform sinus, and esophagus, which can be successfully removed after a thorough examination. However, in some cases, the fish bone may penetrate into the neck soft tissue and migrate to extraluminal organs, causing infection, abscess formation, or rupture of vessels. In such cases, prompt recognition and immediate removal of the impacted fish bone are necessary. Herein, we report a rare case of a 60-year-old woman who had accidently swallowed a fish bone 10 days prior to visiting the outpatient department. The fiberoptic scope and head and neck computed tomography scans were obtained from the outpatient department. The fish bone was found to migrate from the upper esophagus to the left thyroid gland. First, a rigid esophageal endoscopy was performed in the operating room, but no obvious fish bone was noted over the esophagus. Finally, the fish bone was removed via exploratory cervicotomy with left-sided total lobectomy of the thyroid. The patient recovered after the operation, and there were no further complications during the 3 years of follow-up.
Diversity Ideologies, Beliefs, and Climates: A Review, Integration, and Set of Recommendations
Authors: Leslie Lisa M. , Flynn Elinor
Published: March 2022

Initiatives aimed at fostering diversity in organizations have become an increasingly common means for combatting inequality among demographic groups. There is growing recognition that the success of diversity initiatives is a function of not only the relatively concrete policies they include but also less visible factors, such as the diversity cognitions held by organizational members. Diversity cognitions—and particularly beliefs regarding how to approach diversity and its effects—have received significant scholarly attention and a variety of literatures conclude they are invisible, yet powerful, drivers of diversity, inclusion, and other desirable workplace outcomes. Nevertheless, different diversity cognitions are often studied in isolation of one another, which prevents a full understanding of their nature and outcomes. We review and integrate research on different cognitions regarding how to approach diversity and its effects, with the goal of identifying synergistic opportunities for guiding future research. To this end, we focus on three diversity cognitions: diversity ideologies, diversity beliefs, and diversity climates. We review similarities and differences in how these constructs are conceptualized and studied, as well as in their nomological networks of outcomes and antecedents. We then use our review to identify gaps in current understanding and generate recommendations for guiding future work. Our recommendations focus on enhanced construct clarity, nuance with regard to dimensionality, and understanding of outcomes and antecedents. Deeper understanding of beliefs regarding how to approach diversity and its effects is likely to provide new insight into strategies for fostering workplace diversity and inclusion and thereby help combat inequality.
Long‐Term Quality of Life of Vestibular Schwannoma Patients: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Neve Olaf M. , Jansen Jeroen C. , Koot Radboud W. , Ridder Mischa de , Paul G. van Benthem Peter , Stiggelbout Anne M. , Hensen Erik F.
Published: March 2022

Objective

Vestibular schwannoma management aims to maintain optimal quality of life (QoL) while preventing severe sequelae of the tumor or its treatment. This study assessed long‐term QoL of patients with vestibular schwannoma in relation to treatment modality and decisional regret.

Study Design

A longitudinal study, in which clinical and QoL data were used that were cross‐sectionally acquired in 2014 and again in 2020 from the same patient group.

Setting

A tertiary expert center for vestibular schwannoma care in the Netherlands.

Methods

QoL was measured by the Penn Acoustic Quality of Life (PANQOL) scale. Changes in time were assed using a linear mixed model. In addition, the Decision Regret Scale was analyzed.

Results

Of 867 patients, 536 responded (62%), with a median follow‐up of 11 years. All PANQOL subdomain scores remained stable over time and did not exceed minimal clinically important difference (MCID) levels. Time since treatment did not affect QoL. Patients had comparable average QoL scores and proportions of patients with changing QoL scores (ie, exceeding the MCID) over time, irrespective of the received initial treatment. Female patients and those who required salvage therapy (either by radiotherapy or surgery) reported a lower QoL. The latter patient group reported the highest decisional regret.

Conclusion

On average, the long‐term QoL of patients with vestibular schwannoma is comparable for patients under active surveillance and those who have received active treatment, and it remains stable over time. This suggests that, on average, preservation of QoL of patients with vestibular schwannoma is feasible when adequately managed.
Oropharyngeal Rehabilitation for Patients With Moderate to Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea After Transoral Robotic Surgery
Authors: Lai Yi‐Ju , Su Po‐Lan , Li Chung‐Yi , Lin Chung‐Ying , Hung Ching‐Hsia , Lin Cheng‐Yu
Published: March 2022

Objective

To determine whether combined transoral robotic surgery and postoperative oropharyngeal rehabilitation are effective for reducing the severity of obstructive sleep apnea.

Study Design

A quasi‐experimental study enrolled participants without blinding between May 2019 and April 2021.

Setting

Single‐center study at National Cheng Kung University Hospital.

Methods

Patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who were otherwise healthy were recruited from the ear, nose, and throat department at National Cheng Kung University Hospital. The group undergoing transoral robotic surgery with oropharyngeal rehabilitation (n = 18) received a 12‐week intervention consisting of home‐based rehabilitation exercises following surgery; the transoral robotic surgery group (n = 17) received surgery only; and the control group (n = 15) received conservative treatment, such as continuous positive airway pressure therapy or other oral appliance therapy. Polysomnography data and tongue muscle performance were measured before and after the interventions.

Results

The group that underwent transoral robotic surgery with oropharyngeal rehabilitation exhibited significantly improved tongue protrusion strength as compared with the transoral robotic surgery–only group, as well as significantly improved apnea‐hypopnea index in the supine position vs the control group.

Conclusion

In this study, we demonstrated the synergistic effects of transoral robotic surgery and postoperative oropharyngeal rehabilitation for adult patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Objective records should be used to monitor home‐based rehabilitation exercises and examine the lasting synergistic effects.
Prevalence and Demographic Profiles of Food Insecure College Students at Main and Satellite Campuses in Northwestern USA
Authors: Keller Madison , Von Kahle Bridgett , Gordon Barbara , van Woerden Irene
Published: March 2022

Background: Recent studies demonstrated that food insecurity rates among college students surpass that of the general population. Both academic and health implications have been associated with food insecurity. Aim: This study compared the prevalence of food insecurity among students at three satellite campuses with those at the main campus of a 4-year, public university. Methods: In this cross-sectional design study, data were collected for four weeks using an anonymous, online questionnaire (10 demographic questions plus the USDA’s Adult Food Security Survey 10-item module). A sample of 983 students was recruited from the 9064 undergraduate and graduate students attending a state university. Chi-square tests were used to assess demographic differences between food insecure students on the main and satellite campuses. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate the odds of food insecurity by campus (satellite vs. main), after controlling for demographics. Statistical significance was assessed at P < 0.05. Results: Bivariate results indicated the rate of food insecurity was significantly higher on the main campus (45%) than on the satellite campuses (34%, P = 0.007). However, after controlling for demographics there was no difference in the odds of food insecurity by campus ( P = 0.239). Conclusion: The study findings are novel as no other studies compared the prevalence of food insecurity among students attending satellite campuses compared with those at the main campus. After controlling for demographics, type of campus (satellite vs. main) was not a significant factor in the odds of food insecurity.