bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Density Lipoprotein and Long-Term Incidence and Progression of Aortic Valve Calcification: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Bortnick Anna E. , Buzkova Petra , Otvos James D. , Jensen Majken K. , Tsai Michael Y. , Budoff Matthew J. , Mackey Rachel H. , El Khoudary Samar R. , Favari Elda , Kim Ryung S. , Rodriguez Carlos J. , Thanassoulis George , Kizer Jorge R.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Aortic valve calcification (AVC) shares pathological features with atherosclerosis. Lipoprotein components have been detected in aortic valve tissue, including HDL (high-density lipoprotein). HDL measures have inverse associations with cardiovascular disease, but relationships with long-term AVC progression are unclear. We investigated associations of HDL cholesterol, HDL-particle number and size, apoC3-defined HDL subtypes, and, secondarily, CETP (cholesteryl ester transfer protein) mass and activity, with long-term incidence and progression of AVC.

Methods:

We used linear mixed-effects models to evaluate the associations of baseline HDL indices with AVC. AVC was quantified by Agatston scoring of up to 3 serial computed tomography scans over a median of 8.9 (maximum 11.2) years of follow-up in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (n=6784).

Results:

After adjustment, higher concentrations of HDL-C (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol), HDL-P (HDL particles), large HDL-P, and apoC3-lacking HDL-C were significantly associated with lower incidence/progression of AVC. Neither small or medium HDL-P nor apoC3-containing HDL-C was significantly associated with AVC incidence/progression. When included together, a significant association was observed only for HDL-C, but not for HDL-P. Secondary analyses showed an inverse relationship between CETP mass, but not activity, and AVC incidence/progression. In exploratory assessments, inverse associations for HDL-C, HDL-P, large HDL-P, and apoC3-lacking HDL with AVC incidence/progression were more pronounced for older, male, and White participants. ApoC3-containing HDL-C only showed a positive association with AVC in these subgroups.

Conclusions:

In a multiethnic population, HDL-C, HDL-P, large HDL-P, and apoC3-lacking HDL-C were inversely associated with long-term incidence and progression of AVC. Further investigation of HDL composition and mechanisms could be useful in understanding pathways that slow AVC.
miR-21 Regulates the Growth of Gastric Cancer Cells Through Targeting Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog (PTEN)
Authors: Xie Dongfang , Xu Peng , Yuan Chen
Published: August 2022

Gastric cancer (GC) is the leading cause of death worldwide and the prognosis remains poor. Proliferation and apoptosis of cancer cells are regulated by microRNAs (miRNAs). We herein intended to explore the interaction of miR-21 and PTEN in GC. miR-21 inhibitor or negative control was
transfected into GC cells MGC-803 followed by analysis of miR-21 and PTEN level by RT-qPCR, PTEN protein level by western blot and cell growth by MTT and Hoechest-33342 staining. Treatment with miR-21 inhibitor reduced miR-21 expression and increased PTEN protein expression. miR-21 was negatively
associated with PTEN level. Moreover, downregulation of miR-21 decreased cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis. In conclusion, miR-21 stimulates the malignant phenotypes of GC cells by negatively regulating PTEN expression, providing novel insight into the pathogenesis of gastric cancer.
Mirna-218 Inhibits Inflammatory Reaction After Rat Cervical Spinal Cord Injury by Targeting Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription-3
Authors: Muheremu Aikeremujiang , Yakufu Maihemuti , Jiang Junyao , Li Shu , Aili Abudunaibi
Published: August 2022

To find if the overexpression of microrna-218 can be used to treat SCI, here we divided 80 SD rats into control, SCI, overexpression and silencing groups, each with 20 rats. BBB score and combined behavior scores were used to evaluate the motor function under the SCI level. Expression
of IL-1, IL-6, IL-23, STAT3 as well as p-STAT3 was measured. 8 weeks after surgery, over-expression group showed higher BBB score than controls (P < 0.05), while the CBS score was lower in overexpression group than control groups (P < 0.05). The expression of IL-1, IL-6
and IL-23 in the over expression group was lower than the SCI and silencing groups. Levels of IL-17mrna, STAT3 and phosphorylated STAT3 were higher in the over expression group than control groups, but lower than rats in SCI and silencing groups (P < 0.05). In conclusion, mirna-218
can prevent the overexpression of inflammatory factors by inhibiting the expression of STAT3, reducing secondary injury and promoting functional rehabilitation in rats after SCI.
Lin-28 Homolog B-Activated Protein Disulfide Isomerase A4 Regulates Cell Proliferation, Migration and Invasion of Glioma
Authors: Liu Yang , He Hua , Song Zimu , Liu Zheng , Zhu Kai
Published: August 2022

The goal of this study is to elucidate the role of protein disulfide isomerase A4 (PDIA4) in glioma, as well as its regulatory mechanism. Cell transfection was performed to adjust the expression level of PDIA4 and RNA-binding protein lin-28 homolog B (LIN28B). The expression of PDIA4
in human astrocytes and glioma cell lines was determined by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. CCK-8, colony formation, Transwell and wound-healing assays were applied to determine the capabilities of cells to proliferate, invade and migrate. The connection between PDIA4 and LIN28B
was demonstrated by RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and RNA pull down assays. As a result, PDIA4 was elevated in glioma. PDIA4 depletion hugely suppressed cell proliferative ability, which was characterized by the reduced cell viability and colony formation, and declined contents of PCNA and
Ki67. Meanwhile, PDIA4 knockdown repressed the cell capabilities to migrate and invade, accompanied with downregulated MMP2 and MMP9. LIN28N was also found to be upregulated in glioma cells, and was verified to bind with PDIA4 and positively regulate PDIA4 expression. Additionally, LIN28B
overexpression partly hindered the suppressive impacts of PDIA4 knockdown on cell abilities to proliferate, migrate and invade. In conclusion, this study delineates that LIN28B-mediated PDIA4 plays a critical role in the progression of glioma.
Vitexin Glucolone Reinforces Radiosensitivity of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer via Transforming Growth Factor Kinase 1/Adenylate Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathway
Authors: Lin Guo Sheng , Zhang Mei Yi , Wu Liang Ning , Lin Qun Ying
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To discuss effects of vitexin glucolone (VG) to radiosensitivity of NSCLC (Non-small cell lung cancer) cell lines (A549 and H1299). Methods: Treating A549 and H1299 cells by VG with or without X-radiation. Cell viability was calculated by CCK8. Apoptosis rate
was measured by flow cytometry and Western blot to expressions of protein. Subsequently, cells were transferred with TAK1 siRNA, cell viability and apoptosis were measured. Results: VG decreased the viability of Huh7 cells and inhibited effects of VG was more strengthen than radiotherapy
in concentrations of 20 μmol/L and 40 μmol/L. Meanwhile, VG sensitized HCC exposed to radiation therapy to apoptosis as demonstrated by increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. In addition, VG enhanced the promotive effects of X-radiation on the expressions of TAK1, AMPKα1
and PPARγ. Furthermore, silence the expression of TAK1 partly reversed the effects of VG on HCC and radiosensitivity of NSCLC. Conclusion: VG enhances radiosensitivity of NSCLC via TAK1/AMPK pathway.
3D-Printed Porous Titanium Root-Analogue Implant for the Treatment of Longitudinal Fracture of Mandibular Molars with Periapical Periodontitis: A Case Report
Authors: Huang Shuo , Guo Fang , Liu Ning , Li Yongfeng , Wang Chao , Hu Min , Liu Changkui
Published: August 2022

Customized porous titanium root-analogue implant (RAI) can be produced using CBCT data acquisition and three-dimensional image processing, combined with selective laser melting (SLM) technology. However, there is no report on the treatment of chronic periapical periodontitis with RAI.
We report a case of longitudinal fissure of mandibular molars with periapical periodontitis and immediately implanted RAI after extraction. After a continuous observation for one year, it was found that the bone around the root grew into RAI and achieved a good effect of osseointegration.
This report describes a situation in which traditional immediate implantation is untreatable, and the use of customized porous titanium RAI may open up new indications for immediate implantation.
Expression and Significance of Sex-Determining Region Y (SRY)–Box 12 (SOX12) in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yu Huijie , Li Tianhua , Mao Xuemei
Published: August 2022

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a ubiquitous malignancy and is associated with high mortality. Accumulating evidence indicates that transcription factors play a pivotal role in the progression of OSCC. This study was aimed to investigate the expression of SOX12 in OSCC and its
significance. SOX12 expression in OSCC tissues was analyzed through TCGA databases and then tested by Western blot and qRT-PCR analysis. Moreover, SOX12 was silenced by RNA interference in OSCC cells (SCC-25 and SCC-4), and the growth ability of OSCC cells was examined using MTT assay. The
level of SOX12 was upregulated in OSCC according to the TCGA results, which was further confirmed in the OSCC cell lines. Patients with high SOX12 expression had shorter overall survival (OS) than those with low SOX12 expression. High expression of SOX12 is positively correlated with T stage
of OSCC. In addition, MTT analysis indicated that silencing of SOX12 resulted in reduced OSCC cell proliferation. Taken together, the high expression of SOX12 in OSCC indicates that SOX12 gene may play an essential role in OSCC. Our research indicates that SOX12 expression could be a predictive
biomarker and is a potential therapeutic target for OSCC.
α-Cyperone Ameliorates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation and Apoptosis of Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells via Blocking the Toll-Like Receptor 4/NF-κB Signaling
Authors: Wang Juexing , Li Lv , Song Yajie
Published: August 2022

Periodontitis is a long-lasting inflammatory microbial sickness that could cause damage to the periodontal ligament, gums, cementum and alveolar bone directly. Cyperus rotundus is a common traditional Chinese medicine clinically with many pharmacological activities,α-Cyperone is a bioactive ingredient abundant in Cyperus rotundus, few studies have focused on its anti-fungal and anti-oxidative stress activities in mice, during this research, we firstly investigated the impact ofα-Cyperone on PDLSCs inflammatory by LPS stimulation. Our findings illustrated thatα-Cyperone exerted no influence on PDLSCs viability at concentrations lower than 60μM, and the release of inflammatory cytokines decreased with an increase in LPS concentration. Meanwhile, we found thatα-Cyperone effectively restrained LPS-induced PDLSC cell apoptosis by CCK-8 cell viability assay and TUNEL-positive staining. Furthermore, the TLR4 expression and NF-κB kinase activation were greatly repressed byα-Cyperone treatment in LPS-induced PDLSCs inflammatory model. Subsequently, enhanced TLR4 expression was observed to reverse the suppressed release of inflammatory cytokines and decreased apoptosis effects mediated byα-Cyperone in LPS-cotreated PDLSCs, indicating that the deactivation of TLR4 and downstream NF-κB were implicated in favoringα-Cyperone-triggered protective effects of LPS in PDLSCs.
Long Noncoding RNA_Plasmacytoma Variant Translocation 1 (LncRNA_PVT1) Regulates the Biological Behaviors of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSC) to Promote Cervical Cancer Growth Through miR-266
Authors: Wen Xing , Guo Min , Lu Hui , Li Qing
Published: August 2022

To discuss the biological mechanism of lncRNA PVT1 on regulating BMSC and prompting the HPV growth through miR-266. The correlation between presentation of lncRNA PVT1 and HPV was analyzed. The HPV cells were transfected with lncRNA PVT1. The transfection efficiency was tested. These cells were detected through CCK8 test. The action of lncRNA PVT1 on the HPV cells’ cycle and apoptotic rate was tested with FCM. The correlation between lncRNA PVT1 and miR-266 was analyzed through Pearson correlation analysis. The presentation of mRNA was tested by RT-PCR. The presentation level of miR-266 in BMSC and HPV cells was analyzed through PCR. The presentation of lncRNA PVT1 in HPV tissue and cell was increased notably. The apoptotic rate was increased and proliferative rate was reduced through the transfection with lncRNA PVT1. The miR-266 was one kind of gene with differential presentation. It was reduced notably in HPV cells. There was negative correlation between lncRNA PVT1 and miR-266. The proliferation of HPV cells was related closely with the increasing of the presentation of lncRNA PVT1. The gene presentation could be affected through the targeted interaction with miR-266. It was conducive to BMSC growing into HPV. It could provide target spot for the prevention and control for HPV.
Interferon Beta (IFN-β)-Modified Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSC) Impede Metastatic Tropism of Prostate Cancer via Modulating Transforming Growth Factor-Beta/Smads (TGF-Beta/Smads) Pathway
Authors: Fu Housheng , Xu Jianbing , Wang Fei , Wang Weifu , Kang Xinli , Wang Zhongyao
Published: August 2022

The study of Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs)-based treatment is still unmet needs topic in recent years, especially focusing on the therapeutic effects of genetically modified BMSCs. IFN-β acts as a critical mediator in the occurrence and progress of prostate
cancer. Additionally, its related signal transduction pathways affect malignancies. This study aims to discussion the mechanism of IFN-β-modified BMSCs in impeding the metastatic tropism of prostate cancer. A total of 40 male mice (SPF) with a clean grade were randomized into 4
groups (10 mice per group) as follows: control group, BMSCs group, IFN-β modified BMSCs group and TGF-beta/Smads inhibitor group. The following indicators were investigated: the expression level of IFN-β in IFN-β-modified BMSCs, in vitro metastatic
tropism of prostate cancer cells, quantification of TGF-beta and Smads protein, along with the targeting of IFN-β and TGF-beta/Smads. The expression of IFN-β level was significantly increased denoted in the modified BMSCs (1.82±0.42) in comparison with those
unmodified BMSCs (P < 0.05). After 48- and 72-hour culture, the proportion of migrating cells in the IFN-β-modified BMSCs group was significantly decreased than those in other groups (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, cells in the TGF-beta/Smads inhibitor group exhibited
a significantly weaker tendency to migrate in comparison with those in the control group and BMSCs group, but still showed more migrating cells compared to cells in the IFN-β-modified BMSCs group (P < 0.05). Moreover, a significant reduction of migrated cells was denoted
in the BMSCs group after 48- and 72-hour culture in comparison with the control group (P < 0.05). The weakest expression of TGF-beta/Smads proteins was denoted in the IFN-β-modified BMSCs group, followed by the TGF-beta/Smads inhibitor group, BMSCs group and control group
(P < 0.05). The TGF-beta/Smads inhibitor group exhibited significantly decreased levels of TGF-beta/Smads proteins in comparison with the control group and BMSCs group (P < 0.05). Moreover, a significant decline of TGF-beta/Smads proteins was denoted in the BMSCs group
in comparison with the control group (P < 0.05). The IFN-β gene was incubated separately with wild-type and mutant plasmids in the dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. The results indicated that the expression of IFN-β was stronger in the mutant plasmids (P
< 0.05) IFN-β-modified BMSCs can boost the entrance of IFN-β into prostate cancer cells, thereby enhancing their expression of IFN-β, which resulted in the expression impediment of TGF-beta/Smads signals, leading to an inhibited metastatic tropism of
prostate cancer cells. Its mechanism was mainly related to the TGF-beta/Smads signal transduction pathway.
Caregiver burden experiences of caregivers of patients with schizophrenia: A qualitative inquiry
Authors: Kalayci Erdinç , Uzunaslan İmran , Uzunaslan Şerif
Published: August 2022

Background:

Parents of children with schizophrenia struggle with emotional, social, and economic burdens because they do not receive adequate support and experience difficulties.

Aim:

To determine the caregiver burden experiences of parents who care for schizophrenic patients and to provide in-depth data on their feelings, thoughts, and opinions on this issue.

Methods:

In this study, the phenomenological method was used. In-depth interviews were conducted with 13 parents. Maxqda 2020 was used for the analysis of the research data.

Results:

In our qualitative study, it was concluded that caregivers were stigmatized by their environment, exposed to social isolation, and stigmatized themselves. It has been determined that the social isolation experienced by the parents negatively affects them economically, socially, and emotionally.

Conclusion:

The results of this study were discussed within the framework of three themes: emotional burden, social burden, and economic burden experienced by caregivers.
Monospot and VP1 Tests in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Major Depression
Authors: Lynch S P J , Seth R V , Main J
Published: August 2022

Nitrous oxide administration via an oxygen facemask such as the Mary Catterall (MC) is an accepted technique for supplementing regional anaesthesia. This study assessed the range of nitrous oxide and oxygen concentrations delivered to the trachea using a mechanical lung model. The inspired concentrations of these two gases were determined by the total fresh gas inflow rates, their concentrations in the fresh gas mixture and the peak inspiratory flow rate of the analogue lung. A 1: 1 nitrous oxide-oxygen mixture in the fresh gas with an inflow rate of 4–6 l/min is recommended to ensure adequate oxygen delivery into the trachea as well as achieving the therapeutic concentrations of nitrous oxide (20–30%).
Epilepsy and Driving: Attitudes and Practices among Patients Attending a Seizure Clinic
Authors: Dickey William , Morrow James I
Published: August 2022

Although the loss of freedom to drive is a serious consequence of the diagnosis of epilepsy, it is unclear how well current regulations are understood and adhered to by patients. Using questionnaires completed anonymously, we assessed attitudes and practices among 104 patients with epilepsy. Seventeen (16%) patients were driving, three illegally. In total, eight (8%) patients had at some stage driven illegally, even though seven admitted to having been warned not to do so. Even among the 14 patients currently driving and eligible to do so, only eight (57%) had informed the licensing authority and six (43%) their insurers. Only 34 (33%) patients showed satisfactory knowledge of current regulations, including seven (50%) of those currently driving and 21 (50%) of 42 patients who expressed a wish to drive in the future. Of these 34, only 14 (41%) expressed complete agreement with the regulations.

Thus, a significant proportion of patients with epilepsy has driven illegally or has failed to inform the licensing authority or insurers. Understanding of regulations is poor. Less stringent restrictions have been shown to be safe in other countries and might improve compliance.
Temporary Prostatic Stenting and Androgen Suppression: A New Minimally Invasive Approach to Malignant Prostatic Retention
Authors: Anson K M , Barnes D G , Briggs T P , Watson G M , Miller R A
Published: August 2022

Urinary retention secondary to carcinoma of the prostate is usually treated by ‘channel’ transurethral resection of the prostate either performed alone or in combination with hormone manipulation. The combination of temporary prostatic stenting and androgen suppression may reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this treatment.

We report on our initial experience using the combination of a temporary prostatic stent with the oral anti-androgen Flutamide in 10 patients with urinary retention or severe bladder outflow obstruction secondary to prostatic carcinoma.

Eight of the ten patients successfully voided and maintained normal voiding after stent removal. There were two treatment failures requiring prostatic resection.

We believe the cost of stenting and medication is entirely justified by patient preference and clearance of hospital beds.
Sport-Related Sudden Natural Death in the City of Birmingham
Authors: Whittington R M , Banerjee A
Published: August 2022

We undertook a prospective study of all consecutive deaths reported to the Coroner for Birmingham and Solihull in a 5 year period. We identified 52 sudden deaths associated with symptoms commencing during sport participation. We studied the characteristics of these individuals. The majority had been performing at accustomed levels of activity without symptoms for several years.

The extrapolation of our findings to preventive strategies remains unclear but we wish to highlight the importance of recognizing premonitory effort-related symptoms.
Tuberculous Fissure-In Ano
Authors: Myers S R
Published: August 2022

Anal tuberculosis is rare, with cases appearing sporadically in the worldwide literature, and only a single case report of the condition occurring in the UK over the last 10 years1. We are able to present a case of tuberculous fissure- in ano.
Puncture Wounds of the Foot: Can Infective Complications Be Avoided?
Authors: Pennycook A , Makower R , O'Donnell A-M
Published: August 2022

The bacteriological flora of the foot and shoe was studied concurrently in 200 volunteers without foot injuries, and 80 patients with puncture wounds of the foot. Seven of 28 child patients developed clinical infections, three with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Eleven of 52 adult patients also developed infections. No patients developed infection if oral antibiotics were given within the first 24 h after injury ( P>0.05). Oral antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for puncture wounds of the foot.
Shūzō Kure’s essay on psychotherapy including music in twentieth-century Japan (1916)
Authors: Mitsuhira Yuki
Published: August 2022

This study offers a historical introduction to psychiatry and music therapy in Japan in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, followed by English translations of related excerpts from Shūzō Kure’s Psychotherapy (1916). Music was used as preventive healthcare during the Edo period (1603–1867). This continued into the Meiji period (1868–1912), when European music was also employed by psychiatrists alongside traditional Japanese songs. Kure (1865–1932) is known as the father of Japanese psychiatry and his work best illustrates the links between music and psychiatry in Japan at the turn of the century, showing the integration of European and Japanese theories and practices.
How multiple interactions between policy instruments and the policy environment affect environmental governance efficiency
Authors: Rongjuan Wang
Published: August 2022

Few studies explored the interaction effect between policy instruments and the policy environment on environmental governance. Based on policy instrument theory, this paper conducts fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to explore the combined effect of policy instruments and the policy environment on the environmental governance efficiency of local governance. This study found four effective configurations of local government environmental governance, which can be summarized as the mandatory mode and the cooperative mode, and three inefficient configurations that can be summarized as the out-of-control mode. The results show that the regions adopting the mandatory mode are economically underdeveloped, while the regions using the cooperative mode are developed. Besides, local government competition leads to the softening of policy instruments, while government-enterprise collusion exacerbates the failure of environmental policy instruments. This paper summarizes the effective modes and reveals the reasons for the low efficiency of local government environmental governance in China. The conclusions provide not only empirical evidence for the study of policy instrument theory but also beneficial insights for the selection of environmental policy instruments and environmental governance practice.
Assessment of SAARC nations' solar energy potential for sustainable development
Authors: Mittal Ajay
Published: August 2022

Energy is very vital for the economic development and prosperity of any nation. Expanding a country's use of renewable energy sources can help it meet its current and future energy needs, as well as spur economic growth. Sustainable energy supply, electrification rate, population shifts, and per-capita power use affect economic development and prosperity. Electricity use is a key sign of a country's economic growth, and as the economy grows, so does the need for energy. Electricity generation relies on the availability of primary sources, implementation of technology as well as on policy imperatives. The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation is the regional intergovernmental organization and geopolitical union of states in South Asia. Its member states are India, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. SAARC countries are wealthy in natural resources, yet economic growth is a difficulty. This study aims to assess the solar energy potential of SAARC countries, which has received little attention. Prior research on solar energy possibilities in SAARC concentrated on one country or group. According to the study, SAARC countries rely heavily on imported fossil fuels and a single energy source. Renewable energy sources, especially solar energy, are important for their sustainable expansion, diversity of energy basket, energy security, and fulfilling rising electricity demand. The SAARC region has superior daily average horizontal sun irradiances than the UK and Germany, indicating untapped potential for solar photovoltaic systems. This study aims to encourage stakeholders to execute efficient solar energy governance planning for sustainable growth.
Psychological Research in an Australian Remote Indigenous Context: Towards a Culturally Safe Cognitive Research Approach
Authors: Freire Melissa R.
Published: August 2022

Cognitive psychological research provides an evidence-based understanding of human cognition. For example, it can inform an understanding of how phonological awareness, visuospatial processing and working memory facilitate reading. However, the evidence base around reading acquisition is constructed from a Western, Educated, Industrialised, Rich and Democratic (WEIRD) perspective, with little consideration for whether such evidence extends to Australian Indigenous populations. Given the recognised need to improve literacy outcomes for Indigenous children, there is an applied benefit in conducting cognitive research to better understand how language, culture or context might influence the development of neurocognitive processes underlying reading in remote Indigenous communities. However, it is essential that cultural cognitive research be conducted in a culturally fair and culturally safe manner. This requires critiquing and challenging standard cognitive research approaches and methodologies. Here I reflect on research that investigated neurocognitive factors associated with reading in an Indigenous context. I highlight the disjuncture between cognitive psychological research and Indigenous custom and practice and suggest that culturally safe cognitive research must embed Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing. I assert that to work alongside Indigenous researchers as allies, non-Indigenous researchers must develop intercultural research skills. This includes building cultural competence and engaging in critical self-reflexivity.
Outcome of Nasal Layer Reinforcement With Autologous Dermis in Cleft Palate Repair on Postoperative Fistula Formation
Authors: Khan Subhendu , John Jerry R. , Sharma Ramesh K.
Published: August 2022

Palatal fistulae are challenging complications following cleft palate repair. The addition of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to cleft palate repair has been shown to reduce fistula formation in previous studies. The use of autologous dermal graft has all the structural advantages of ADM, has less rejection and immunogenic potential, and is cost effective.

A prospective study.

Patients with Group II and III cleft palate (Nagpur Classification) without prior intervention for palatal repair in the Department of Plastic Surgery at PGIMER from January 2020 till June 2021.

The addition of autologous dermal graft for palatoplasty.

Outcome of the study was fistula development or exposure of dermal graft.

Autologous dermal graft was harvested of average dimension of 8.73 cm2 (range 5.25-18 cm2) from groin region. Sixteen patients were included in the study. Among them, 2 patients (12.5%) developed postoperative fistula (Type III &V Pittsburgh Classification).

Our study showed that the rates of postoperative fistula formation are comparable with prior literature using artificial dermal matrices.
Democracy, Labor’s Share of Income, and Labor Supply: A Time-Series Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Brown David S.
Published: August 2022

This paper examines democracy’s impact on the labor share of income: the share of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) dedicated to wages, salaries, and benefits. I hypothesize democratic regimes afford labor the opportunity to increase its share of national income. While previous empirical work finds cross-sectional evidence for the hypothesis, this paper employs a time-series cross-sectional analysis using data for 119 countries between 1950 and 2017, indicating the labor share of income is higher in democratic countries. The estimates are robust to different specifications of the statistical model. This paper also examines a potential causal mechanism that links democracy to a higher labor share through the supply of labor (the average number of hours worked in the economy). The relationship between democracy and the supply of labor lends additional evidence to my hypothesis. In a world characterized by diverging democracy, the results imply the path countries choose between democracy and dictatorship matters.
Noncongruent policymaking by cities for citizens with criminal records: Representation, organizing, and “Ban the Box”
Authors: Owens Michael L. , Gunderson Anna
Published: August 2022

Generally, public (and private) policymakers adopt policies—laws, rules, and procedures—that encumber groups with negative social constructions and low political capital. Sometimes, however, they adopt policies beneficial, not burdensome, to them. We examine beneficial policy adoption for one disadvantaged group—U.S. citizens with criminal records. Our focus is the adoption of “Ban the Box” (BTB) policies that embargo criminal records questions on job applications and defer them during hiring by employers. We leverage extant data on annual BTB policy adoptions, novel annual city-level data on community organizing groups and descriptive representation (i.e., race and gender), and event history analysis for a sample of 256 U.S. cities to provide a comprehensive understanding of the city contexts associated with the spread of BTB policy adoptions by cities across the U.S. between 2004 and 2019. Although descriptive, the findings deepen and broaden the scholarship about the roles of civil society organizations and descriptive representation for beneficial policymaking for disadvantaged groups and the connection of interests and representation for abolishing some punitive policy designs by public (and private) actors.
Safety and Efficacy Study of Neoadjuvant Radiohormonal Therapy for Oligometastatic Prostate Cancer: Protocol of an Open-Label, Dose-Escalation, Single-Centre Phase I/II Clinical Trial
Authors: Zhao Xianzhi , Xiao Yu-Tian , Yang Yue , Ye Yusheng , Chang Yifan , Jiang Lingong , Eftekhar Md , Ren Shancheng , Zhang Huojun
Published: August 2022

Background

The optimal treatment for oligometastatic prostate cancer (OMPC) is still on its way. Accumulating evidence has proven the safety and feasibility of radical prostatectomy and local or metastasis-directed radiotherapy for oligometastatic patients. The aim of this trial is to demonstrate the safety and feasibility outcomes of metastasis-directed neoadjuvant radiotherapy (naRT) and neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy (naADT) followed by robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) for treating OMPC.

Methods

The present study will be conducted as a prospective, open-label, dose-escalation, phase I/II clinical trial. The patients with oligometastatic PCa will receive 1 month of naADT, followed by metastasis-directed radiation and abdominal or pelvic radiotherapy. Then, radical prostatectomy will be performed at intervals of 4-8 weeks after radiotherapy, and ADT will be continued for 2 years. The primary endpoints of the study are safety profiles, assessed by the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) 5.0 grading scale, and perioperativemorbidities, assessed by the Clavien-Dindo classification system. The secondary endpoints include positive surgical margin (pSM), biochemical recurrence-free survival (bPFS), radiological progression-free survival (RPFS), postoperative continence, and quality of life (QoL) parameters.

Discussion

The optimal treatment for OMPC is still on its way, prompting investigation for novel multimodality treatment protocol for this patient population. Traditionally, radical prostatectomy has been recommended as one of the standard therapies for localized prostate cancer, but indications have expanded over the years as recommended by NCCN and EAU guidelines. RP has been carried out in some centres for OMPC patients, but its value has been inconclusive, showing elevated complication risks and limited survival benefit. Neoadjuvant radiotherapy has been proven safe and effective in colorectal cancer, breast cancer and other various types of malignant tumors, showing potential advantages in terms of reducing metastatic stem-cell activity, providing clinical downstaging, and reducing potential intraoperative risks. Existing trials have shown that naRT is well tolerated for high-risk and locally-advanced prostate cancer. In this study, we hope to further determine the optimal irradiation dose and patient tolerance for genitourinary, gastrointestinal and systemic toxicities with the design of 3+3 dose escalation; also, final pathology can be obtained following RP to further determine treatment response and follow-up treatment plans.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1900025743. http://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=43065 .
School Characteristics and Voting: What Matters in Turnout and Passage
Authors: Kitchens Karin E.
Published: August 2022

Do school characteristics predict the likelihood of turning out to vote on tax referendums for school funding or predict passage of tax referendums for school funding? I rely on publicly available Florida Voter Registration files and connect voters to their closest elementary school. I then aggregate individual data to the precinct level to test what characteristics predict the passage of tax referendums. Pairing the individual level turnout data with the precinct level data, I find that there are differences in the composition of voters across election types and these voters are responding to different characteristics of schools. While we might expect school characteristics to matter more for special elections, this is not the case. School characteristics matter less in special elections because who is turning out to vote is different in those elections. General elections are the only time in which school performance is statistically related to the percent of yes vote.
Have We Got a Deal for You: Do You Want the Good News or Bad News First?
Authors: Wakefield Kirk L. , Raghubir Priya , Inman J. Jeffrey
Published: August 2022

Traditional practice prominently presents offers (e.g., “50% Off”) followed by a quantity (“When you buy two”), duration (“Today only”), or other conditional restriction as a scarcity appeal to increase urgency. Placing a hurdle to clear before purchase eligibility presents the good news of the offer followed by the bad news of the restriction.

We propose and test a sales promotion framework for admission-based experiences showing that leading with the bad news first (the restriction) followed by the good news (the discount) is consistent with consumer news order preferences and changes perceptions of the deal. Our first study confirms consumer preference for bad news before good news in general and ticket offers in particular. The next two studies examine the process by which leading with the bad news (of the restriction first, discount later) increases the salience of the deal (% off). This in turn makes the customer feel in greater control over the offer, thereby making the deal appear to be fairer and more attractive, leading to increased purchase intentions. A fourth study in the field shows presenting the restriction followed by a discount improves click-through and potential revenue compared to presenting the identical offer with the discount preceding the restriction.
Do You Mind if I Ask You a Personal Question? How AI Service Agents Alter Consumer Self-Disclosure
Authors: Kim Tae Woo , Jiang Li , Duhachek Adam , Lee Hyejin , Garvey Aaron
Published: August 2022

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has grown rapidly in the service industry and AI’s emotional capabilities have become an important feature for interacting with customers. The current research examines personal disclosures that occur during consumer interactions with AI and humans in service settings. We found that consumers’ lay beliefs about AI (i.e., a perceived lack of social judgment capability) lead to enhanced disclosure of sensitive personal information to AI (vs. humans). We identify boundaries for this effect such that consumers prefer disclosure to humans over AI in (i) contexts where social support (rather than social judgment) is expected and (ii) contexts where sensitive information will be curated by the agent for social dissemination. In addition, we reveal underlying psychological processes such that the motivation to avoid negative social judgment favors disclosing to AI whereas seeking emotional support favors disclosing to humans. Moreover, we reveal that adding humanlike factors to AI can increase consumer fear of social judgment (reducing disclosure in contexts of social risk) while simultaneously increasing perceived AI capacity for empathy (increasing disclosure in contexts of social support). Taken together, these findings provide theoretical and practical insights into tradeoffs between utilizing AI versus human agents in service contexts.
Investigation of the Antinociceptive Activity of the Hydroethanolic Extract of Junglas nigra Leaf by the Tail-Immersion and Formalin Pain Tests in Rats
Authors: Srebro Dragana , Rajković Katarina , Dožić Branko , Vujović Katarina Savić , Brkić Branislava Medić , Milić Petar , Vučković Sonja
Published: August 2022

Background

Juglans (J.) nigra leaf is obtained from a plant that is used in traditional medicine in some countries to alleviate inflammatory diseases.

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of J. nigra extract on acute nociceptive and inflammatory pain in rats.

Methods

Antinociceptive activity was examined in Wistar rats by the tail-immersion and formalin tests. Motor function was assessed using the rotarod test. Plant extract was administered intraperitoneally.

Results

In the tail-immersion test, the maximal antinociceptive effect of the plant extract (100–330 mg/kg) was about 24–30% and is the result of the effect of a high concentration of ethanol. In the formalin test, the plant extract (41.3–330 mg/kg) significantly and dose-dependently inhibited nociception in both phases of the test with similar maximal effects of about 76% and 85%. Only the plant extract at the dose of 330 mg/kg caused a significant time-dependent reduction in time spent on the rotarod.

Conclusions

In rats, the preventive systemic administration of the hydroethanolic extract of J. nigra leaf reduced chemically but not thermally induced pain. Higher efficacy was obtained in pain associated with inflammation and tissue injury. The antinociceptive effect is dose-dependent and may be limited by motor impairment.
In silico Analysis of ACE2 Receptor to Find Potential Herbal Drugs in COVID-19 Associated Neurological Dysfunctions
Authors: Hou Juan , Bhat Adil Manzoor , Ahmad Shaban , Raza Khalid , Qazi Sahar
Published: August 2022

COVID-19 mainly causes the collapse of the pulmonary system thereby causing a dearth of oxygen in the human body. Patients infected with this viral disease have been reported to experience various signs and symptoms associated with brain dysfunction, from the feeling of vagueness to loss of smell and taste to severe strokes. These neurological problems have been reported by younger COVID-19 infected patients mainly in their thirties and forties. Various researchers from around the globe have discerned numerous other brain dysfunctions, such as headache, dizziness, numbness, major depressive disorder, anosmia, encephalitis, febrile seizures, and Guillain-Barre syndrome. The involvement of the CNS by this viral infection has been predicted to be for a longer period of time, even if the patient recovers from COVID-19. The neuronal cell damage caused by COVID-19 is a potent factor responsible for cognitive, behavioral, and psychological problems among its sufferers. The hypoxic conditions can also trigger the formation of beta-amyloid plaques and tau-tangles and thus the virus can even induce Alzheimer’s in patients in the near future. The virus affects the brain directly, thereby causing encephalitis. This pandemic has also been shown to have a negative psychological toll on people. This research aims to highlight the brain dysfunction associated with the ACE2 receptor that is known to be a crucial player in the COVID-19 pandemic using genetic networking approaches. Furthermore, we have identified herbal drug candidates that bind to the ACE2 receptor in order to identify potential treatments for the neurological manifestations of COVID-19.
Religious Transitions, Sexual Minority Status, and Depressive Symptoms from Adolescence to Early Adulthood
Authors: Saunders R. Kyle , Burdette Amy M. , Carr Dawn , Hill Terrence D.
Published: August 2022

Given that sexual minorities have been historically stigmatized within institutions of religion, they may be less likely to exhibit any health benefits from religious participation. In this article, we use data from Waves I and IV of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health to test whether the effects of religious affiliation (becoming affiliated with a religious group) and disaffiliation (no longer affiliating with a religious group) on depressive symptoms are moderated by sexual minority status from adolescence to early adulthood. In regression models adjusted for selection effects, we observed that, compared to respondents who were consistently unaffiliated, becoming affiliated was associated with more depressive symptoms from baseline to follow-up among lesbian, gay, and bisexual respondents, but not among heterosexual respondents. We conclude with the implications of our results as they relate to understanding the health impacts of marginalized groups in social institutions and the importance of selection effects.
Phenakite and bertrandite: products of post-magmatic alteration of beryl in granitic pegmatites (Tatric Superunit, Western Carpathians, Slovakia)
Authors: Uher Pavel , Ozdín Daniel , Bačík Peter , Števko Martin , Ondrejka Martin , Rybnikova Olena , Chládek Štěpán , Fridrichová Jana , Pršek Jaroslav , Puškelová Ľubica
Published: August 2022

The beryllium silicate minerals phenakite and bertrandite have been identified in granitic pegmatite dykes of the beryl-columbite subtype of Variscan age (~340−355 Ma), associated with S- to I-type granitic rocks of the Tatric Superunit, Western Carpathians (Slovakia). The two beryllium silicates and associated minerals were characterised by electron microprobe analysis, back-scattered electron petrography and cathodoluminescence imagery, X-ray diffraction and micro-Raman techniques. Phenakite and bertrandite form euhedral-to-anhedral crystals and aggregates in irregular domains and veinlets replacing primary magmatic beryl. A detailed textural study revealed a close genetic association of phenakite and bertrandite with secondary fine-grained quartz, K-feldspar and muscovite. Locally, clay phyllosilicate minerals, (with compositions similar to those of Fe-dominant hydrobiotite, beidellite, nontronite and saponite) occur as the youngest minerals. During the post-magmatic (hydrothermal) stage of the pegmatites, infiltration of aqueous K-bearing fluids atT≈ 200–400°C resulted in the breakdown of magmatic beryl to secondary assemblages containing phenakite and bertrandite.
Immunothrombosis and vascular heterogeneity in cerebral cavernous malformation
Authors: Globisch Maria A. , Onyeogaziri Favour C. , Jauhiainen Suvi , Yau Anthony C. Y. , Orsenigo Fabrizio , Conze Lei L. , Arce Maximiliano , Corada Monica , Smith Ross O. , Rorsman Charlotte , Sundell Veronica , Fernando Dinesh , Daniel Geoffrey , Mattsson Oscar , Savander Henri , Wanders Alkwin , Rezai Jahromi Behnam , Laakso Aki , Niemelä Mika , Dejana Elisabetta , Magnusson Peetra U.
Published: August 2022

Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) is a neurovascular disease that results in various neurological symptoms. Thrombi have been reported in surgically resected CCM patient biopsies, but the molecular signatures of these thrombi remain elusive. Here, we investigated the kinetics of thrombi formation in CCM and how thrombi affect the vasculature and contribute to cerebral hypoxia. We used RNA sequencing to investigate the transcriptome of mouse brain endothelial cells with an inducible endothelial-specific Ccm3 knock-out (Ccm3-iECKO). We found that Ccm3-deficient brain endothelial cells had a higher expression of genes related to the coagulation cascade and hypoxia when compared with wild-type brain endothelial cells. Immunofluorescent assays identified key molecular signatures of thrombi such as fibrin, von Willebrand factor, and activated platelets in Ccm3-iECKO mice and human CCM biopsies. Notably, we identified polyhedrocytes in Ccm3-iECKO mice and human CCM biopsies and report it for the first time. We also found that the parenchyma surrounding CCM lesions is hypoxic and that more thrombi correlate with higher levels of hypoxia. We created an in vitro model to study CCM pathology and found that human brain endothelial cells deficient for CCM3 expressed elevated levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and had a redistribution of von Willebrand factor. With transcriptomics, comprehensive imaging, and an in vitro CCM preclinical model, this study provides experimental evidence that genes and proteins related to the coagulation cascade affect the brain vasculature and promote neurological side effects such as hypoxia in CCMs. This study supports the concept that antithrombotic therapy may be beneficial for patients with CCM.