bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Protective Effects of Vanillic Acid and Vanillic Acid‐Coated Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) in Streptozotocin‐Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Alamri Eman S. , El Rabey Haddad A.
Published: March 2024

The production of nanoparticles enhances the bioactivity of biological molecules for drug delivery to diseased sites. This study explains how silver nanoparticle (AgNP) coating enhanced the protection effects of vanillic acid in male diabetic rats with streptozotocin‐ (STZ‐) induced diabetes. Twenty‐four rats were divided into four groups (n = 6) for this investigation. The first group (G1) is untreated, whereas diabetes was induced in the other three groups through STZ injection. Diabetic rats that were not getting therapy were included in the second group (G2, STZ‐positive), whereas the other diabetic rats were divided into the third group (G3, vanillic acid‐treated) and the fourth group (G4, vanillic acid‐coated AgNPs treated). The treatment lasted four weeks. In G2, the induction of diabetes significantly (at P = 0.05) increased in serum glucose, glycated proteins, renal indices, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), K+, immunoglobulins, and lipid peroxidation, while decreased Ca++, Na+, and other antioxidants in the kidney tissue homogenate. In addition, pathological altered signs were present in the pancreas and kidneys of diabetic rats. The renal and pancreatic tissues were effectively enhanced by vanillic acid or vanillic acid‐coated AgNPs, bringing them very close to their prediabetic conditions. Vanillic acid‐coated AgNPs offered a stronger defense against STZ‐induced diabetes and lessened the effects of hyperglycemia compared to ordinary vanillic acid. Additionally, using vanillic acid coated with silver nanoparticles greatly increased the antioxidant and antidiabetic activity and reduced inflammation when compared to using vanillic acid alone.
Effects of Process-Genre Approach on Students’ Writing Strategy Use in Paragraphs: Second-Year Wachemo University Students
Authors: Albore Amanuel Kidane , Woldemariam Getachew Seyoum , Chali Gemechis Teshome
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the effects of a process-genre approach on EFL students’ use of writing strategies when writing paragraphs. To ensure the reliability of the writing strategy inventory questionnaire, Cronbach’s alpha was calculated. A quasi-experimental research design was used, and strategy questionnaires were used to collect data. The experimental and control groups were assigned using the lottery method. Independent and paired-sample t-tests were used to determine if there was a statistically significant difference due to treatment between the students’ before and after treatments. Before treatment, the students completed the writing strategy questionnaires, and after 12 weeks of treatment, they were given after-treatment questionnaires. The results revealed that students in the experiment group outperformed the control group in terms of using different writing strategies based on the process-genre approach. The study concluded that the process-genre approach could significantly improve students’ paragraph writing. Therefore, university-level English language teachers are strongly recommended to be aware of the role of the process-genre approach and to follow the process-genre model in improving their students’ use of writing strategies in writing paragraphs.
Identification of Plasma Exosomes hsa_circ_0001360 and hsa_circ_0000038 as Key Biomarkers of Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Zhang Wan , Cui Jiasen , Li Li , Zhu Ting , Guo Zhenyu
Published: March 2024

Background. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Accumulating evidence reveals that atherosclerosis (AS), characterized by systemic, chronic, and multifocal disease, and is the primary pathological basis of cardiovascular diseases, including CHD. However, the molecular underpinnings of CHD are still far from well understood. Our study attempted to identify aberrant plasma exosome-derived circRNAs and key exosomal circRNA biomarkers for CHD. Methods. The expression profiles of mRNAs, circRNAs, and lncRNAs in the blood exosomes of CHD patients and healthy controls were obtained from the exoRBase database. The corresponding miRNAs of the differentially expressed mRNAs, circRNAs, and lncRNAs were predicted via ENCORI and the miRcode database. LncRNAs/circRNAs and mRNAs with the cotargeted miRNAs were selected to construct an interaction network. Multiple machine learning algorithms have been used to explore potential biomarkers, followed by verification in patients with CHD using real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Results. Based on the cutoff criterion of P<0.05, we identified 85 differentially expressed circRNAs (4 upregulated and 81 downregulated), 43 differentially expressed lncRNAs (24 upregulated and 19 downregulated), and 312 differentially expressed mRNAs (55 upregulated and 257 downregulated). Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the differentially expressed mRNAs were involved mainly in neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation and the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain- (NOD-) like receptor signaling pathway. Further analysis revealed that the DEGs in the circRNA/lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA interaction network were closely related to lipid and atherosclerotic signaling pathways. Hsa_circ_0001360 and hsa_circ_0000038 were identified as potential biomarkers for CHD based on three machine learning algorithms. The relative expression levels of hsa_circ_0001360 and hsa_circ_0000038 were significantly altered in plasma exosomes from patients with CHD. ROC curve analysis revealed that the areas under the curve (AUCs) were 0.860, 0.870, and 0.940 for hsa_circ_0001360, hsa_circ_0000038, and the two-gene combination, respectively. Conclusion. The circRNA/lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA interaction network might help to elucidate the pathogenesis of CHD. Hsa_circ_0001360 combined with hsa_circ_0000038 might be an important diagnostic biomarker.
Couple-Level Manifestations of Posttraumatic Stress and Maternal and Paternal Postpartum Relationship Functioning
Authors: Thomas Jordan L. , Somers Jennifer A. , Dunkel Schetter Christine , Sumner Jennifer A.
Published: March 2024

Objective. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is linked with impaired intimate relationships in postpartum women, yet less is known about couple-level manifestations of posttraumatic psychopathology and potential associations with relationship functioning for mothers and fathers during this critical time. Method. In a predominately low-to-middle income sample of 867 mother-father couple dyads assessed six months following the birth of a child, two analytic methods—a data-driven dyadic latent profile analysis and hypothesis-driven a priori categorization approach—evaluated whether discrete subgroups of couples could be identified based on both partners’ PTSD symptoms. Structural equation models then tested associations between identified subgroups with (1) self-reported relationship quality and (2) interviewer-rated relationship stress. Results. Three couple-level PTSD symptom groupings were common to both methods: both low, mother low-father high, and mother high-father low. Dyad-level PTSD symptom patterns were differentially related to relationship dysfunction for mothers and fathers, although mixed findings emerged across methods regarding the relevance of which partner had elevated symptoms for relationship functioning in PTSD symptom-discordant couples. Individuals in dyads characterized by at least one partner with elevated PTSD symptoms consistently exhibited greater relationship dysfunction—indexed both subjectively and objectively—compared to dyads where both partners had low symptoms. Conclusions. Couple-level typologies of PTSD symptoms can be identified using data- and hypothesis-driven approaches, with generally concordant results. Dyadic patterns of PTSD symptoms are relevant to relationship functioning for both mothers and fathers during the postpartum period and may help to inform more targeted intervention efforts to support couples who are parenting.
An Association Rule Mining‐Based Method for Revealing the Impact of Operational Sequence on Nuclear Power Plants Operating
Authors: He Yuxuan , Song Jian , Shi Shaoke , Lian Haibo , He Jiangyang , Yu Ren , Liu Tete , Sun Bin , Yuan Jiangtao , Hu Yingbin
Published: March 2024

The operations of the operators are important for nuclear safety, but conventional operating experience feedback and common data‐driven methods make it difficult to explicitly find valuable information hidden in these operational sequences that can help the operator to provide advice at the operational level. During the nuclear power plant (NPP) operation, a large amount of historical operating data is accumulated, which records the operational sequences of the operators and the state parameters of equipment. Therefore, this paper proposes the use of association rule techniques to mine the NPP operating data to discover the operational characteristics of operators and reveal their possible impact on the NPP operation. This work helps to improve the operational performance of operators and prevent human‐factor events. To this end, the concept of state switching values for describing the operating states of NPPs is proposed to enable the proposed method to be adapted to different practical application scenarios. A sequence segmentation method is proposed to be able to transform historical NPP operating data into a sequence data set for association rule mining. Furthermore, an ensemble algorithm based on sequence pattern mining and sequence rule mining and its postprocessing method are designed. The empirical study was carried out using 20 batches of historical operating data of the cold start‐up. A total of 164 original association rules are generated using the proposed method and were analyzed by experts. The recommendations were made for 4 different cases that would improve the operational performance of the operators.
Nifedipine‐Influenced Enlargement of the Masticatory Mucosa in an Elderly Edentulous Patient: A Rare Case Report with a Two‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Sun Shoufu , Pan Yufan , Zhang Jichun , Jiang Yunan
Published: March 2024

Drug‐influenced gingival enlargement is a common side effect associated with certain medications, particularly calcium channel blockers like nifedipine, which has been extensively documented. However, the occurrence of nifedipine‐influenced masticatory mucosa overgrowth in edentulous patients is rare. Here, we present a case of nifedipine‐influenced mucosal enlargement persisting in a 67‐year‐old edentulous patient 3 months after the extraction of all his teeth. The patient underwent flap surgery and alveoloplasty to excise the overgrown tissue, followed by complete denture restoration. The antihypertensive medication was replaced with valsartan. A 2‐year follow‐up revealed no recurrence of overgrowth, indicating the effectiveness of this management strategy for such clinical situation.
Awareness of Hypertension, Hypercholesterolemia, and Diabetes Mellitus and Associated Characteristics in Russian Adults
Authors: Sahatqija Filip , Hunsberger Monica , Cook Sarah , Kholmatova Kamila , Shapkina Marina , Malyutina Sofia , Kudryavtsev Alexander V.
Published: March 2024

Russia has higher cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality compared to other European countries. The major CVD risk factors are age, male sex, and three conditions, namely hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes mellitus (DM). This study aimed to assess awareness of these three conditions among Russian adults (N = 3803) and the associated socio-demographic, lifestyle, and health characteristics. We used cross-sectional data from a randomly drawn population-based sample of Russians aged 35–69 years, who participated in the Know Your Heart (KYH) study conducted in Arkhangelsk and Novosibirsk between 2015–2018. Participants’ self-reported awareness of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and DM was assessed against the measures at the KYH health check (blood pressure, cholesterol, HbA1c and/or use of medication for each condition). Prevalence estimates for the awareness were age- and sex-standardized to the Standard European Population. Socio-demographic, lifestyle, and health-related correlates of the awareness were investigated using logistic regression modelling. Among participants with hypertension (N = 2206), hypercholesterolemia (N = 3171), and DM (N = 329) recorded at a health check, 79%, 45%, and 61% self-reported these conditions, respectively. Higher awareness of hypercholesterolemia and hypertension was associated with older age, female sex, nonsmoking status, obesity, and history of CVD diagnoses. Low household income and history of CVD diagnoses were associated with being aware of DM. The awareness rates of hypertension were relatively high, whereas awareness rates of hypercholesterolemia and DM were relatively low. CVD prevention and early intervention could be improved in Russia through increasing the awareness of the risk factors.
Stabilization of Li7La3Zr2O12 Solid Electrolyte through Ga‐Based Precipitates and the Ga–Au Surface Layer
Authors: Kim Dohun , Nguyen Minh Hai , Chun Seung Hoon , Jeon June , Kim Byung-Kook , Park Sangbaek
Published: March 2024

Garnet‐type Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) is a promising oxide solid electrolyte with high ionic conductivity and excellent stability toward Li metal. However, the presence of grain boundaries (GBs) causes a decrease in the ionic conductivity and cycling stability of the sintered LLZO. Herein, we promote the Ga precipitation at GBs through excessive doping with Ga/Al/Ta, simultaneously depositing a few nanometers thickness Au layer to form a Ga–Au surface layer. High‐temperature sintering of heavily doped LLZO induces Ga precipitation, effectively filling the GB of the pellet. Consequently, the relative density and ionic conductivity are increased. Furthermore, nanoscale Au encounters precipitated Ga and forms a new Ga–Au layer, which reduces the contact resistance. The new layer prevents direct contact between molten Li and Ga‐based composites at the GBs, thus enhancing the cycling stability. Therefore, it demonstrates the synergistic effect that the precipitated Ga improves the compactness of the LLZO electrolyte, whereas the Ga–Au layer enhances the cycling stability. It provides a straightforward approach to address the issues originated from GBs and increase the cycling stability of LLZO, thereby contributing to the practical application of all‐solid‐state batteries.
Efficacy and Safety of Omeprazole for the Treatment of Acid Peptic Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Prasad VG Mohan , McFarland Lynne V. , Thacker Hemant P. , Puri Rajesh , Lawate Parimal S.
Published: March 2024

Background Aim. To compare the efficacy of omeprazole to other proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) or placebo for the treatment of acid peptic disorders (APDs) using a comprehensive literature search including hard-to-access journals and non-English articles. Methods. PubMed, Google Scholar, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched (from inception to March 2023) for trials comparing omeprazole to other types of PPIs or placebo for the treatment APD. Efficacy was analyzed separately for erosive diseases and nonerosive diseases. Primary outcomes included improvement of APD symptoms and frequency of ulcer or erosion healing. Secondary outcomes included adverse events, cost effectiveness, nocturnal acid breakthrough, and length of stay if hospitalized. Random and fixed-effects models were used to determine estimates of efficacy. Results. Thirty-one eligible trials (N = 10,539 participants) were analyzed, including 12 articles not typically included in previous reviews due to translation or journal access issues. Omeprazole significantly improved heartburn compared to placebo (RR = 2.47, 95% CI: 2.13 and 2.86, and p<0.001) and was equivalent to the other five types of PPI. Omeprazole had significantly fewer patients reporting adverse events versus placebo (11% versus 31%, respectively) and other PPIs. Omeprazole was the most cost-effective PPI compared to the other types of PPIs in India. Conclusions. Omeprazole continues to be an effective proton-pump inhibitor to treat patients with acid peptic disorders and was well tolerated. Omeprazole was significantly better than placebo and was equivalent with other PPIs for curing heartburn and was equivalent to other PPIs for the healing of ulcers or erosions in addition to being the most cost-effective.
Hypertension and Risk of Endometrial Cancer: A Pooled Analysis in the Epidemiology of Endometrial Cancer Consortium (E2C2)
Authors: Habeshian Talar S. , Peeri Noah C. , De Vivo Immaculata , Schouten Leo J. , Shu Xiao-ou , Cote Michele L. , Bertrand Kimberly A. , Chen Yu , Clarke Megan A. , Clendenen Tess V. , Cook Linda S. , Costas Laura , Dal Maso Luigino , Freudenheim Jo L. , Friedenreich Christine M. , Gallagher Grace , Gierach Gretchen L. , Goodman Marc T. , Jordan Susan J. , La Vecchia Carlo , Lacey James V. , Levi Fabio , Liao Linda M. , Lipworth Loren , Lu Lingeng , Matias-Guiu Xavier , Moysich Kirsten B. , Mutter George L. , Na Renhua , Naduparambil Jeffin , Negri Eva , O'Connell Kelli , O'Mara Tracy A. , Onieva Hernández Irene , Palmer Julie R. , Parazzini Fabio , Patel Alpa V. , Penney Kathryn L. , Prizment Anna E. , Ricceri Fulvio , Risch Harvey A. , Sacerdote Carlotta , Sandin Sven , Stolzenberg-Solomon Rachael Z. , van den Brandt Piet A. , Webb Penelope M. , Wentzensen Nicolas , Wijayabahu Akemi T. , Wilkens Lynne R. , Xu Wanghong , Yu Herbert , Zeleniuch-Jacquotte Anne , Zheng Wei , Du Mengmeng , Setiawan Veronica Wendy
Published: March 2024

Background:

The incidence rates of endometrial cancer are increasing, which may partly be explained by the rising prevalence of obesity, an established risk factor for endometrial cancer. Hypertension, another component of metabolic syndrome, is also increasing in prevalence, and emerging evidence suggests that it may be associated with the development of certain cancers. The role of hypertension independent of other components of metabolic syndrome in the etiology of endometrial cancer remains unclear. In this study, we evaluated hypertension as an independent risk factor for endometrial cancer and whether this association is modified by other established risk factors.

Methods:

We included 15,631 endometrial cancer cases and 42,239 controls matched on age, race, and study-specific factors from 29 studies in the Epidemiology of Endometrial Cancer Consortium. We used multivariable unconditional logistic regression models to estimate ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to evaluate the association between hypertension and endometrial cancer and whether this association differed by study design, race/ethnicity, body mass index, diabetes status, smoking status, or reproductive factors.

Results:

Hypertension was associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.09–1.19). There was significant heterogeneity by study design (Phet < 0.01), with a stronger magnitude of association observed among case–control versus cohort studies. Stronger associations were also noted for pre-/perimenopausal women and never users of postmenopausal hormone therapy.

Conclusions:

Hypertension is associated with endometrial cancer risk independently from known risk factors. Future research should focus on biologic mechanisms underlying this association.

Impact:

This study provides evidence that hypertension may be an independent risk factor for endometrial cancer.
Unlocking the Pancreatic Cancer Puzzle: Using Intermediate Cells to Target Treatment
Authors: Faraoni Erika Y. , McAllister Florencia
Published: March 2024

KRT17-high intermediate cell population with elevated CXCL8 expression informed elevated myeloid infiltration status in tumors and associated with protumorigenic signatures in peripheral granulocytes from patients with pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, CXCL8 plasma levels were found to resemble KRT17+/CXCL8+ abundance in tumors, in which higher levels predicted worse patient outcomes.

See related article by Carpenter et al., p. 2497
Low-Carbohydrate Diet Score and Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Findings from a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Pham Yen Thi-Hai , Jin Aizhen , Wang Renwei , Behari Jaideep , Koh Woon-Puay , Yuan Jian-Min , Luu Hung N.
Published: March 2024

Limited data are reported on the association between low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) score, a comprehensive measure of dietary pattern according to sources of carbohydrate, fat, and protein, and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We evaluated this score with HCC risk in the Singapore Chinese Health Study, a prospective cohort of 63,275 middle-aged and elderly Chinese living in Singapore and recruited during 1993–1998 period. LCD scores were derived from the semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire at baseline. A nested case–control study involved 197 HCC cases and 465 controls was also constructed among 28,346 participants who provided blood samples. Cox proportional hazard regression method was used to calculate HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for HCC with different levels of LCD scores. Conditional logistic regression was performed for the case–control study analysis. After 17.6 years of follow-up with 819,573 person-years, 561 participants developed primary HCC. Although there was a null association between total LCD score and HCC risk (HRper-SD increment = 1.07; 95% CI, 0.98–1.16; Ptrend = 0.06), there was a positive association between animal-based LCD and the risk of HCC (HRper-SD increment = 1.11; 95% CI, 1.02–1.21; Ptrend = 0.01). Furthermore, this association was present in both HBsAg-negative and HBsAg-positive individuals in the case–control study. In stratified analysis for the entire cohort, this positive association was only present in those who consumed alcoholic beverages monthly or less frequent but not in weekly or daily drinker (Pinteraction = 0.79). In summary, a diet with lower carbohydrate, higher animal fat and protein was significantly associated with higher risk of HCC among Chinese Singaporeans.

Prevention Relevance:

In a large cohort study of more than 63,000 Chinese Singaporeans, we found that a diet with lower carbohydrate and higher animal fat and protein was associated with increased risk of HCC, suggesting that dietary modification could be an effective strategy in primary prevention to reduce the HCC burden.
Induction of Viral Mimicry Upon Loss of DHX9 and ADAR1 in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Cottrell Kyle A. , Ryu Sua , Pierce Jackson R. , Soto Torres Luisangely , Bohlin Holly E. , Schab Angela M. , Weber Jason D.
Published: March 2024

Detection of viral double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is an important component of innate immunity. However, many endogenous RNAs containing double-stranded regions can be misrecognized and activate innate immunity. The IFN-inducible ADAR1-p150 suppresses dsRNA sensing, an essential function for adenosine deaminase acting on RNA 1 (ADAR1) in many cancers, including breast. Although ADAR1-p150 has been well established in this role, the functions of the constitutively expressed ADAR1-p110 isoform are less understood. We used proximity labeling to identify putative ADAR1-p110–interacting proteins in breast cancer cell lines. Of the proteins identified, the RNA helicase DHX9 was of particular interest. Knockdown of DHX9 in ADAR1-dependent cell lines caused cell death and activation of the dsRNA sensor PKR. In ADAR1-independent cell lines, combined knockdown of DHX9 and ADAR1, but neither alone, caused activation of multiple dsRNA sensing pathways leading to a viral mimicry phenotype. Together, these results reveal an important role for DHX9 in suppressing dsRNA sensing by multiple pathways.

Significance:

These findings implicate DHX9 as a suppressor of dsRNA sensing. In some cell lines, loss of DHX9 alone is sufficient to cause activation of dsRNA sensing pathways, while in other cell lines DHX9 functions redundantly with ADAR1 to suppress pathway activation.
d-Chiro-Inositol in Clinical Practice: A Perspective from the Experts Group on Inositol in Basic and Clinical Research (EGOI)
Authors: Dinicola Simona , Unfer Vittorio , Soulage Christophe O. , Yap-Garcia Maria Isidora Margarita , Bevilacqua Arturo , Benvenga Salvatore , Barbaro Daniele , Wdowiak Artur , Nordio Maurizio , Dewailly Didier , Appetecchia Marialuisa , Aragona Cesare , Espinola Maria Salomè Bezerra , Bizzarri Mariano , Cavalli Pietro , Colao Annamaria , D'Anna Rosario , Vazquez-Levin Mónica Hebe , Hernàndez Marin Imelda , Kamenov Zdravko , Laganà Antonio Simone , Monastra Giovanni , Montanino Oliva Mario , Cenk Özay Ali , Pintaudi Basilio , Porcaro Giuseppina , Pustotina Olga , Pkhaladze Lali , Prapas Nikos , Roseff Scott , Salehpour Saghar , Stringaro Annarita , Tugushev Marat , Unfer Virginia , Vucenik Ivana , Facchinetti Fabio
Published: March 2024

Background: d-Chiro-inositol is a natural molecule that, in association with its well-studied isomer myo-inositol, may play a role in treating various metabolic and gynecological disorders. Objectives: This perspective seeks to explore the mechanisms and functions of d-chiro-inositol, laying the foundations to discuss its use in clinical practice, across dysmetabolism, obesity, and hormonal dysregulation. Methods: A narrative review of all the relevant papers known to the authors was conducted. Outcome: d-Chiro-inositol acts through a variety of mechanisms, acting as an insulin sensitizer, inhibiting the transcription of aromatase, in addition to modulating white adipose tissue/brown adipose tissue transdifferentiation. These different modes of action have potential applications in a variety of therapeutic fields, including PCOS, dysmetabolism, obesity, hypoestrogenic/hyperandrogenic disorders, and bone health. Conclusions: d-Chiro-inositol mode of action has been studied in detail in recent years, resulting in a clear differentiation between d-chiro-inositol and its isomer myo-inositol. The insulin-sensitizing activities of d-chiro-inositol are well understood; however, its potential applications in other fields, in particular obesity and hyperestrogenic/hypoandrogenic disorders in men and women, represent promising avenues of research that require further clinical study.
Improvement in Echocardiographic Indexes of Systolic Heart Failure Post-Kidney Transplantation: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Skalsky Keren , Perl Leor , Rozen Zvi Benaya , Atamna Mohamad , Kornowski Ran , Nesher Eviatar , Rahamimov Ruth , Ben Gal Tuvia , Shapira Yaron , Shiyovich Arthur , Steinmetz Tali
Published: March 2024

Introduction: End-stage renal disease is a major risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, which can be partially eliminated by kidney transplantation. Systolic heart failure might be considered contraindication for kidney transplant, although some patients demonstrate myocardial recovery post-transplant. We aimed to identify and characterize the phenomenon of reverse myocardial remodeling in kidney transplanted patients. Methods: The study is a retrospective cohort of patients undergoing kidney transplants between 2016 and 2019 (n = 604) at Rabin Medical Center. Patients were assessed according to availability of two echocardiographic examinations: pre- and post-kidney transplant. The change in estimated ejection fraction (EF) and possible predictors of myocardial recovery were examined. Results: Data of 293 patients was available for the final analysis. Eighty-one (28%) patients had a LVEF improvement equal to or above 5%, whereas 36 (12%) patients had a LVEF improvement of 10% or more post-transplantation. Twenty-five patients (8.5%) had moderate or severe systolic heart failure with LVEF reduced to 40% or less at baseline. 13 of them (52%) had a LVEF improvement of ≥5%, and 10 patients (40%) had an improvement of ≥10% in their EF. Cox regression analyses identified female gender as the only independent variable associated with LVEF improvement of at least 10%. Conclusion: Renal transplantation might lead to improved LV systolic function in some patients.
Coexistence of Trigonocephaly and Sylvian Arachnoid Cysts: A Coincidence?
Authors: Bianchi Federico , Agostini Ludovico , Frassanito Paolo , Massimi Luca , Tamburrini Gianpiero
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The association between trigonocephaly and Sylvian fissure arachnoid cysts (ACs) has been occasionally reported in the literature. However, the real incidence of this association and its clinical relevance remain unknown. Methods: The authors collected and retrospectively reviewed all clinical charts and CT scans of patients surgically treated for trigonocephaly at the Pediatric Neurosurgical Department of Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “Agostino Gemelli” IRCCS from January 2014 to June 2023. Results: During the study period, 136 patients with trigonocephaly underwent surgery. Analysis of the clinical charts revealed that in 39.7% of the cases (54/136), preoperative CT scan depicted the presence of a Sylvian fissure AC. Of these, AC was bilateral in 23 cases and unilateral in the remaining 31. All unilateral ACs were on the left side. The ACs were classified as Galassi grade I in 52 cases (96.3%) and Galassi grade II in 2 cases (3.7%). Interestingly, in 1 case we reported a Galassi grade I AC enlargement during follow-up, thereby necessitating surgical fenestration. Conclusion: ACs and trigonocephaly are well-known conditions for pediatric neurosurgeons; however, their association is poorly defined. Despite the lack of reports on the incidence and clinical significance of this association, it is worth knowing that radiological follow-up is essential in monitoring AC evolution.
Comparative Cytogenetics in Tyrannidae (Aves, Passeriformes): High Genetic Diversity despite Conserved Karyotype Organization
Authors: Saraiva Diego Madruga , de Souza Marcelo Santos , Tura Victoria , de Rosso Vitor Oliveira , Zefa Edison , Garnero Analía del Valle , Gunski Ricardo José , Sassi Francisco de Menezes Cavalcante , Cioffi Marcelo de Bello , Kretschmer Rafael
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Passeriformes has the greatest species diversity among Neoaves, and the Tyrannidae is the richest in this order with about 600 valid species. The diploid number of this family remains constant, ranging from 2n = 76 to 84, but the chromosomal morphology varies, indicating the occurrence of different chromosomal rearrangements. Cytogenetic studies of the Tyrannidae remain limited, with approximately 20 species having been karyotyped thus far. This study aimed to describe the karyotypes of two species from this family, Myiopagis viridicata and Sirystes sibilator. Methods: Skin biopsies were taken from each individual to establish fibroblast cell cultures and to obtain chromosomal preparations using the standard methodology. The chromosomal distribution of constitutive heterochromatin was investigated by C-banding, while the location of simple repetitive sequences (SSRs), 18S rDNA, and telomeric sequences was found through fluorescence in situ hybridization. Results: The karyotypes of both species are composed of 2n = 80. The 18S rDNA probes hybridized into two pairs of microchromosomes in M. viridicata, but only a single pair in S. sibilator. Only the telomeric portions of each chromosome in both species were hybridized by the telomere sequence probes. Most of the SSRs were found accumulated in the centromeric and telomeric regions of several macro- and microchromosomes in both species, which likely correspond to the heterochromatin-rich regions. Conclusion: Although both species analyzed showed a conserved karyotype organization (2n = 80), our study revealed significant differences in their chromosomal architecture, rDNA distribution, and SSR accumulation. These findings were discussed in the context of the evolution of Tyrannidae karyotypes.
Resenha: Património cultural: realidade viva. MARTINS, Gabriel d’Oliveira. Lisboa: Fundação Francisco Manuel dos Santos, 2020, 124p.
Authors: Laia Paulo Otávio de , Costa Carlos Alberto Santos
Published: March 2024

The book "Cultural Heritage – Living Reality", by Guilherme d’Oliveira Martins, is a review of the meanings that lead to the protection of this category of thought.
Extracellular Matrix Interactome in Modulating Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling
Authors: Fu Yi , Zhou Yuan , Wang Kai , Li Zhuofan , Kong Wei
Published: March 2024

The ECM (extracellular matrix) is a major component of the vascular microenvironment that modulates vascular homeostasis. ECM proteins include collagens, elastin, noncollagen glycoproteins, and proteoglycans/glycosaminoglycans. ECM proteins form complex matrix structures, such as the basal lamina and collagen and elastin fibers, through direct interactions or lysyl oxidase-mediated cross-linking. Moreover, ECM proteins directly interact with cell surface receptors or extracellular secreted molecules, exerting matricellular and matricrine modulation, respectively. In addition, extracellular proteases degrade or cleave matrix proteins, thereby contributing to ECM turnover. These interactions constitute the ECM interactome network, which is essential for maintaining vascular homeostasis and preventing pathological vascular remodeling. The current review mainly focuses on endogenous matrix proteins in blood vessels and discusses the interaction of these matrix proteins with other ECM proteins, cell surface receptors, cytokines, complement and coagulation factors, and their potential roles in maintaining vascular homeostasis and preventing pathological remodeling.
Error-based Implicit Learning in Language: The Effect of Sentence Context and Constraint in a Repetition Paradigm
Authors: Hodapp Alice , Rabovsky Milena
Published: March 2024

Prediction errors drive implicit learning in language, but the specific mechanisms underlying these effects remain debated. This issue was addressed in an EEG study manipulating the context of a repeated unpredictable word (repetition of the complete sentence or repetition of the word in a new sentence context) and sentence constraint. For the manipulation of sentence constraint, unexpected words were presented either in high-constraint (eliciting a precise prediction) or low-constraint sentences (not eliciting any specific prediction). Repetition-induced reduction of N400 amplitudes and of power in the alpha/beta frequency band was larger for words repeated with their sentence context as compared with words repeated in a new low-constraint context, suggesting that implicit learning happens not only at the level of individual items but additionally improves sentence-based predictions. These processing benefits for repeated sentences did not differ between constraint conditions, suggesting that sentence-based prediction update might be proportional to the amount of unpredicted semantic information, rather than to the precision of the prediction that was violated. In addition, the consequences of high-constraint prediction violations, as reflected in a frontal positivity and increased theta band power, were reduced with repetition. Overall, our findings suggest a powerful and specific adaptation mechanism that allows the language system to quickly adapt its predictions when unexpected semantic information is processed, irrespective of sentence constraint, and to reduce potential costs of strong predictions that were violated.
Evaluation of Point-to-Point Reaching Performance in Mixed Reality and Virtual Reality
Authors: Petrie Tyler G. , Zhao Chen , Fu Michael J.
Published: March 2024

Recent immersive mixed reality (MR) and virtual reality (VR) displays enable users to use their hands to interact with both veridical and virtual environments simultaneously. Therefore, it becomes important to understand the performance of human hand-reaching movement in MR. Studies have shown that different virtual environment visualization modalities can affect point-to-point reaching performance using a stylus, but it is not yet known if these effects translate to direct human-hand interactions in mixed reality. This paper focuses on evaluating human point-to-point motor performance in MR and VR for both finger-pointing and cup-placement tasks. Six performance measures relevant to haptic interface design were measured for both tasks under several different visualization conditions (“MR with indicator,” “MR without indicator,” and “VR”) to determine what factors contribute to hand-reaching performance. A key finding was evidence of a trade-off between reaching “motion confidence” measures (indicated by throughput, number of corrective movements, and peak velocity) and “accuracy” measures (indicated by end-point error and initial movement error). Specifically, we observed that participants tended to be more confident in the “MR without Indicator” condition for finger-pointing tasks. These results contribute critical knowledge to inform the design of VR/MR interfaces based on the application's user performance requirements.
Bridging the Headset: Engagement, Collaboration, and Learning in and around Virtual Reality
Authors: Tärning Betty , Gulz Agneta , Nirme Jens
Published: March 2024

To study engagement and learning, we developed an asymmetric collaborative version of an existing VR-experience about environmental sustainability, enabling student teams of three, with only one wearing a headset at any time, to collaborate in three different virtual reality subgames. We compared this collaborative version to a non-collaborative version in a between-subjects experimental study (n = 20), finding that student teams using the collaborative version interacted to a larger extent while performing the subgames. The students in these teams self-reported a higher level of engagement, and observations suggested that interactions extended beyond necessary instructions. We did not find any significant differences when it comes to learning measured by scores on pre- and post-knowledge tests, but quantitative analysis of responses indicates that the VR-experience affected students overall and a qualitative analysis of an open question suggested a particular effect on the collaborative teams. Logged performance data indicated that collaborative teams managed to solve the tasks involved in the subgames at least as efficiently as the teams using the non-collaborative version.
What’s Cooking? General Measures in the Case Law of the European Court of Human Rights
Authors: Popelier Patricia
Published: March 2024

Strategic deference is used by the European Court of Human Rights (Court) to keep the United Kingdom on board. This can be explained as a means to address autocratic strategies, but is harder to justify where it differentiates between consolidated democracies. To preserve authority and credibility, the Court must maintain an appearance of consistency. To this end, the ‘procedural turn’ in the Court’s case law has been presented as a development of the subsidiarity principle, consistent with earlier case law. In this paper, however, the case is made that procedural arguments are used (or avoided) in fundamentally different ways, reflecting very different mindsets. The paper distinguishes six approaches to so-called ‘general measures’ and explains in each case the underlying attitude towards national member states. By lumping them all together, strategic deference is concealed, allowing for a more favourable treatment of the UK while keeping up appearances that all contracting parties are treated alike.
Periplocin Inhibited Gliomas Migration by Targeting Migrasome Related Gene TSPAN6
Authors: Wu Hong , He Xuying , Jiao Yonggang , Xie Yuerong , Zheng Zhenxiang , Liu Zhi , Shen Huijuan , Yin Zhao , Chen Bo , Xu Guang , Rong Ying , Zhang Zhu
Published: March 2024

Glioma is a life-threatening brain tumor characterized by rapid growth and resistance to treatment. Periplocin, the monomeric compound, exhibits anti-tumor activities. However, the action of periplocin in gliomas remain unclear. Migrasome, a vesicle-like structure derived from the tips
or intersections of contractile filaments in migrating cells, was investigated in this study to explore the antitumor activity of periplocin in glioma and elucidate its mechanism. The proliferation, apoptosis, migration and MMP in periplocin-treated LN229 and KNS-89 cells were examined. In
order to revealed the mechanism of Periplocin inhibition of migration. Additionally, we revealed the relation of Migrasome-related genes with glioma based on TCGA database analysis, and we found TSPAN6 may be the direct target in glioma, Periplocin could inhibited LN229 and KNS-89 cell proliferation
and migration, and promoted their apoptosis. Moreover, targeting TSPAN6 resulted in reduced cell viability and migration, as well as increased apoptosis in glioma cells.
M1 Macrophage-Derived Exosomal MiR-155 Enhances Autophagy in Sepsis-Triggered Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Zhu Yunhan , Chen Renshou
Published: March 2024

Sepsis-induced Acute kidney injury (SA-AKI), a common complication in sepsis, significantly impacts patients’ health and quality of life. M1 macrophages have been demonstrated to release inflammatory mediators that exacerbate kidney injury. MiR-155 has been implicated in promoting
inflammation and damage during sepsis while reducing miR-155 levels alleviates SA-AKI. However, the relationship between miR-155 and M1 macrophage-derived exosomes in regulating autophagy during SA-AKI remains unclear. In this study, we aim to investigate the relationship between M1 macrophage-derived
exosomes and miR-155 in regulating autophagy during SA-AKI. A mouse model of SA-AKI was established by performing cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) surgery. Additionally, the HK-2 cell line was utilized to establish a sepsis cell model by inducing lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We demonstrated
that the mice model of SA-AKI exhibited renal injury along with enhanced autophagy, inflammation response, and macrophage polarization after CLP surgery. M1 macrophages attenuated cell viability and enhanced autophagy in LPS-treated HK-2 cells. Additionally, M1 macrophage-derived exosomes
were observed to enhance autophagy in LPS-treated HK-2 cells. Furthermore, we confirmed an increased expression of miR-155 in M1 macrophage-derived exosomes. Furthermore, exosome-mediated miR-155 enhanced autophagy in LPS-treated HK-2 cells. In conclusion, this study provides the first evidence
that exosomal miR-155 derived from M1 macrophages enhances autophagy in SA-AKI. These findings suggest that targeting exosomal miR-155 could be a promising therapeutic strategy for SA-AKI.
Study on the Expression of GAB/GBAP1 Gene in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Functional Mechanism of Interaction with miRNAs
Authors: Zhou Gui , Qin Xue , Chen Xiang , Dai Meiyu , Liu Limin , Liu Yanyu
Published: March 2024

This study aims to investigate the expression of the GAB/GBAP1 gene in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and explore its interaction with microRNAs (miRNAs) and functional mechanisms. By employing bioinformatics analysis on publicly available databases of HCC tissue samples and normal
tissues, we determined the expression level of the GAB/GBAP1 gene in HCC. Moreover, we predicted potential miRNAs that interact with the GAB/GBAP1 gene and further screened miRNAs associated with the occurrence and development of HCC. PCR analysis was utilized to verify the interaction between
the GAB/GBAP1 gene and selected miRNAs, investigating their functional regulatory mechanisms in HCC cell lines. The results showed that the expression level of the GAB/GBAP1 gene was significantly upregulated in HCC tissue samples compared to normal tissues (P < 0.05). Bioinformatics
prediction identified a group of miRNAs that potentially interact with the GAB/GBAP1 gene, among which miRNAs were found to be downregulated in HCC. Furthermore, we confirmed a direct binding interaction between miRNAs and the GAB/GBAP1 gene, and overexpression of miRNAs significantly inhibited
the proliferation, invasion, and migration abilities of HCC cells. In summary, this study demonstrated the expression of the GAB/GBAP1 gene in HCC cell lines through PCR analysis and cell line culture, supporting its potential as a therapeutic target. Furthermore, this study revealed the overexpression
of the GAB/GBAP1 gene in HCC and demonstrated that miRNAs exert inhibitory effects on HCC occurrence and development through their interaction with the GAB/GBAP1 gene.
Osteogenic Differential Expression of Rabbit Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells by PPARγ Transfection Coated with Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Yipeng , Wang Yong , Chen Tao , Chen Gang , Yang Zeyu
Published: March 2024

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have advantages in utilization. Nanoparticles (NP) are degradable, nontoxic and have good biocompatibility, besides, they can encapsulate and transport water-soluble, fat-soluble and deoxyribonucleic acid. This study explored the influence of NP-coated
PPARγ transfection on osteogenic differentiation of rabbit ADSCs. After preparing PPARγ transfection system coated with nanoparticles, Petri dishes containing the same amount of cells were divided at the beginning of cell culture into blank group (not transfected),
control group and observation group (transfected with PPARγ coated NP). Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and Western Blot were done to detect the contents of lipoprteinlipase (LPL), Runx2 and serum osteocalcin (BGP) protein. The levels of Runx2, BGP and PPARγ mRNA
were measured by RT-PCR. After ADSCs cells were stained, a small number of cells adhered to each other, and the cells were mainly fibroblast-like and spindle-shaped, and proliferated in the form of colonies. The levels of Runx2 and BGP in the observation group were significantly lower than
those in the control group (p < 0.05) after the ADSCs cells were cultured for 7 and 14 days. The expression of LPL and PPARγ mRNA in the observation group was higher control group (p < 0.05). Transfection of PPARγ coated with nanoparticles inhibited
the osteogenic differentiation of rabbit ADSCs by inhibiting the expression of Runx2 and BGP and promoting the expression of LPL and PPARγ.
Co-Delivery of Tim-3 Monoclonal Antibody and Sorafenib to Enhance Chemoimmunotherapy of Liver Cancer by Using Silicon Nanosystem
Authors: Yan Xiang , Ahmadzadeh Behnam , Ebrahimi Zeinab , İlhan Ahmet , Bradosty Sarwan W. , Zheng Wei
Published: March 2024

In this study, mesoporous silica nanosystem (ST/SNs) was designed to co-deliver Tim-3 mAb and sorafenib (SF) for combined chemoimmunotherapy of liver cancer. The outer shell of ST/SNs is composed of Tim-3 mAb modified with metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2)-sensitive peptide, which acts as a “gating molecule” in the blood circulation to prevent drug release, and responds to Tim-3 mAb under the action of MMP2 in the tumor microenvironment Shedding enables Tim-3 mAb and SF-triggered drug release for heterotargeted cell delivery to T cells/tumor cells.In vivotumor inhibition experiments showed that ST/SNs significantly improved tumor inhibition in tumor-bearing mice compared with sequential administration of free SF and Tim-3 mAb. At the same time, ST/SNs significantly up-regulated the expression of anti-tumor cytokines IFN-γand IL-12 in mouse serum and the proportion of CD3+CD4+and CD3+CD8+cells in the tumor, showing a good immune regulation ability. In addition, at the administered dose, the blank vector exhibited low cytotoxicity and hemolysis, and no obvious hemolysis was observed. Provincial People’s Hospital. In conclusion, this study provides a promising chemoimmunotherapy combination drug combination for clinical liver cancer treatment, and provides a potential drug carrier for chemoimmunotherapy combination therapy.