bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aggrecan and versican: two brothers close or apart
Authors: Watanabe Hideto
Published: April 2022

Aggrecan (Acan) and versican (Vcan) are large chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans of the extracellular matrix. They share the same structural domains at both N- and C-termini. The N-terminal G1 domain binds hyaluronan (HA), forms an HA-rich matrix, and regulates HA-mediated signaling. The C-terminal G3 domain binds other extracellular matrix molecules and forms a supramolecular structure that stores transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and regulates their signaling. EGF-like motifs in the G3 domain may directly act like an EGF ligand. Both Acan and Vcan are present in cartilage, intervertebral disc, brain, heart, and aorta. Their localizations are essentially reciprocal. This review describes their structural domains, expression patterns and functions, and regulation of their expression.
The peak force-resting membrane potential relationships of mouse fast- and slow-twitch muscle
Authors: Cairns Simeon P. , Leader John P. , Higgins Amanda , Renaud Jean-Marc
Published: April 2022

We endeavored to understand the factors determining the peak force-resting membrane potential ( EM) relationships of isolated slow-twitch soleus and fast-twitch extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles from mice (25°C), especially in relation to fatigue. Interrelationships between intracellular K+ activity ([Formula: see text]), extracellular K+ concentration ([K+]o), resting EM, action potentials, and force were studied. The large resting EM variation was mainly due to the variability of [Formula: see text]. Action potential overshoot-resting EM relationships determined at 4 and 8–10 mM [K+]o after short (<5 min) and prolonged (>50 min) depolarization periods revealed a constant overshoot from −90 to −70 mV providing a safety margin. Overshoot decline with depolarization beyond −70 mV was less after short than prolonged depolarization. Inexcitable fibers occurred only with prolonged depolarization. The overshoot decline during action potential trains (2 s) exceeded that during short depolarizations. Concomitant lower extracellular [Na+] and raised [K+]o depressed the overshoot in an additive manner and peak force in a synergistic manner. Raised [K+]o-induced force loss was exacerbated with transverse wire versus parallel plate stimulation in soleus, implicating action potential propagation failure in the surface membrane. Increasing stimulus pulse parameters restored tetanic force at 9–10 mM [K+]o in soleus but not EDL, indicative of action potential failure within trains. The peak tetanic force-resting EM relationships (determined with resting EM from deeper rather than surface fibers) were dynamic and showed pronounced force depression over −69 to −60 mV in both muscle types, implicating that such depolarization contributes to fatigue. The K+-Na+ interaction shifted this relationship toward less depolarized potentials, suggesting that the combined ionic effect is physiologically important during fatigue.
Calcium released by osteoclastic resorption stimulates autocrine/paracrine activities in local osteogenic cells to promote coupled bone formation
Authors: Ahmed Abu Shufian Ishtiaq , Sheng Matilda H. C. , Lau Kin-Hing William , Wilson Sean M. , Wongworawat M. Daniel , Tang Xiaolei , Ghahramanpouri Mahdis , Nehme Antoine , Xu Yi , Abdipour Amir , Zhang Xiao-Bing , Wasnik Samiksha , Baylink David J.
Published: April 2022

A major cause of osteoporosis is impaired coupled bone formation. Mechanistically, both osteoclast-derived and bone-derived growth factors have been previously implicated. Here, we hypothesize that the release of bone calcium during osteoclastic bone resorption is essential for coupled bone formation. Osteoclastic resorption increases interstitial fluid calcium locally from the normal 1.8 mM up to 5 mM. MC3T3-E1 osteoprogenitor cells, cultured in a 3.6 mM calcium medium, demonstrated that calcium signaling stimulated osteogenic cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. Calcium channel knockdown studies implicated calcium channels, Cav1.2, store-operated calcium entry (SOCE), and calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) in regulating bone cell anabolic activities. MC3T3–E1 cells cultured in a 3.6 mM calcium medium expressed increased gene expression of Wnt signaling and growth factors platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and bone morphogenic protein-2 (BMP 2). Our coupling model of bone formation, the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κΒ ligand (RANKL)-treated mouse calvaria, confirmed the role of calcium signaling in coupled bone formation by exhibiting increased gene expression for osterix and osteocalcin. Critically, dual immunocytochemistry showed that RANKL treatment increased osterix-positive cells and increased fluorescence intensity of Cav1.2 and CaSR protein expression per osterix-positive cell. The above data established that calcium released by osteoclasts contributed to the regulation of coupled bone formation. CRISPR/Cas-9 knockout of Cav1.2 in osteoprogenitor cells cultured in basal calcium medium caused a >80% decrease in the expression of downstream osteogenic genes, emphasizing the large magnitude of the effect of calcium signaling. Thus, calcium signaling is a major regulator of coupled bone formation.
Gene expression profile and injury sites in mice treated with Shiga toxin 2 and lipopolysaccharide as a Shiga toxin-associated hemolytic uremic syndrome model
Authors: Kume Yohei , Go Hayato , Maeda Ryo , Suyama Kazuhide , Mori Tsutomu , Kawasaki Yukihiko , Hashimoto Koichi , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: April 2022

Shiga toxin 2 (Stx2) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) contribute to the development of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Mouse models of HUS induced by LPS/Stx2 have been used for elucidating HUS pathophysiology and for therapeutic development. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms and detailed injury sites in this model remain unknown. We analyzed mouse kidneys after LPS/Stx2 administration using microarrays. Decreased urinary osmolality and urinary potassium were observed after LPS/Stx2 administration, suggestive of distal nephron disorders. A total of 1,212 and 1,016 differentially expressed genes were identified in microarrays at 6 h and 72 h after LPS/Stx2 administration, respectively, compared with those in controls. Ingenuity pathway analysis revealed activation of TNFR1/2, iNOS, and IL-6 signaling at both time points, and inhibition of pathways associated with lipid metabolism at 72 h only. The strongly downregulated genes in the 72-h group were expressed in the distal nephrons. In particular, genes associated with distal convoluted tubule (DCT) 2/connecting tubule (CNT) and principal cells of the cortical collecting duct (CCD) were downregulated to a greater extent than those associated with DCT1 and intercalated cells. Stx receptor globotriaosylceramide 3 (Gb3) revealed no colocalization with DCT1-specific PVALB and intercalated cell-specific SLC26A4 but did present colocalization with SLC12A3 (present in both DCT1 and DCT2), and AQP2 in principal cells. Gb3 localization tended to coincide with the segment in which the downregulated genes were present. Thus, the LPS/Stx2-induced kidney injury model represents damage to DCT2/CNT and principal cells in the CCD, based on molecular, biological, and physiological findings.
Specular Microscopic Corneal Endothelial Cell Changes following Uneventful Phacoemulsification in Patients with Gout
Authors: Abozaid Mortada , Saad-eldin Rana , Farouk Mahmoud , Anbar Mohamed , Wasfi Ehab
Published: April 2022

Purpose. To assess the effects of phacoemulsification on the corneal endothelium in patients with gout and age-related cataracts. Methods. Eighty-eight patients who underwent uneventful phacoemulsification for age-related cataracts were included in this retrospective comparative study. The patients were divided into two groups: group A included 31 patients with gout and tight control of uric acid levels and group B included 57 patients without gout or any other systemic disease. All patients completed follow-up assessments over 6 months, and the two groups were compared in terms of changes to their specular microscopic values. Results. Both groups showed marked improvement in uncorrected and best-corrected visual acuity at the end of the follow-up period. Corneal endothelial cell loss was more severe in group A than in group B, with a mean difference of 221.35 ± 43.87 in group A and 169.88 ± 52.67 in group B at the sixth month (

p

 < 0.001). The difference between the two groups in terms of other specular microscopic values did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion. Patients with gout are more prone to corneal endothelial cell damage after phacoemulsification than those without gout. To confirm these results, future studies with a prospective design and longer durations of follow-up are needed.
Relationships between Personality Traits and Brain Gray Matter Are Different in Risky and Non-risky Drivers
Authors: Mas-Cuesta Laura , Baltruschat Sabina , Cándido Antonio , Catena Andrés
Published: April 2022

Personality traits such as impulsivity or sensitivity to rewards and punishments have been associated with risky driving behavior, but it is still unclear how brain anatomy is related to these traits as a function of risky driving. In the present study, we explore the neuroanatomical basis of risky driving behavior and how the level of risk-taking influences the relationship between the traits of impulsivity and sensitivity to rewards and punishments and brain gray matter volume. One hundred forty-four participants with different risk-taking tendencies assessed by real-life driving situations underwent MRI. Personality traits were assessed with self-report measures. We observed that the total gray matter volume varied as a function of risky driving tendencies, with higher risk individuals showing lower gray matter volumes. Similar results were found for volumes of brain areas involved in the reward and cognitive control networks, such as the frontotemporal, parietal, limbic, and cerebellar cortices. We have also shown that sensitivity to reward and punishment and impulsivity are differentially related to gray matter volumes as a function of risky driving tendencies. Highly risky individuals show lower absolute correlations with gray matter volumes than less risk-prone individuals. Taken together, our results show that risky drivers differ in the brain structure of the areas involved in reward processing, cognitive control, and behavioral modulation, which may lead to dysfunctional decision-making and riskier driving behavior.
Management of Tracheal Perforation following Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery: Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Guo Xinhu , Ji Hongquan
Published: April 2022

Background. Tracheal perforation is a complication very rare but challenging that follows anterior cervical spine surgery. This article describes the management of tracheal perforation due to instrument failure after anterior cervical spine surgery performed in two patients because of fracture dislocation of the subaxial cervical spine. Case Presentation. Two patients who suffered from a subaxial cervical fracture and dislocation were subjected to anterior cervical spine surgery for fracture reduction and cervical fusion. However, instrumentation failure occurred in both patients, resulting in implant displacement and penetration into the posterior tracheal wall. Revision surgery consisted of fracture reduction, multilevel posterior fixation, and removal of the displaced anterior cervical implants. Tracheal perforation was bypassed by placing a tracheostomy tube in a caudal position for the diversion of the airflow and tracheal hygiene. The thorough debridement and drainage performed in both patients allowed a complete healing of the anterior wound in both of them, with no sign of infection or subcutaneous emphysema, as confirmed by postoperative CT scan and flexible bronchoscopy. Both patients acquired a solid fusion of the cervical spine at last follow-up (16 months and 24 months). Conclusions. The perforation of the trachea after anterior cervical spine surgery due to the displacement of the implants could be managed using posterior cervical instrumentation and fusion, the removal of the anterior implant, debridement and drainage, and the use of a distal bypassing tracheostomy tube.
Evaluation of Minnesota Score in the Allocation of Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation During Resource Scarcity
Authors: Wothe Jillian K. , Bergman Zachary R. , Lofrano Arianna E. , Doucette Melissa , Saavedra-Romero Ramiro , Prekker Matthew E. , Lusczek Elizabeth R. , Brunsvold Melissa E.
Published: April 2022

Background. In this study, we evaluate the previously reported novel Minnesota Score for association with in-hospital mortality and allocation of venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome with or without SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. Methods. This was a retrospective cohort study across four extracorporeal membrane oxygenation centers in Minnesota. Logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between the scores and in-hospital mortality, duration of ECMO cannulation, and discharge disposition. Priority groups were established statistically by maximizing the sum of sensitivity and specificity and compared to the previous qualitatively established priority groups. Results. Of 124 patients included in the study, 38% were treated for COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome. The median age was 48 years, and 73% were male. The in-hospital mortality rate was 38%. The Minnesota Score was significantly associated with in-hospital mortality only (OR 1.13,

p
=
0.02

). Statistically determined cut points were similar to qualitative cut points. SARS-CoV-2 status did not change the findings. Conclusions. In our patient cohort, the Minnesota Score is associated with increased mortality. With further validation, proposed priority groups could be utilized for allocation of ECMO in times of increasing scarcity.
The Strong Convex Functions and Related Inequalities
Authors: Wang Xue , Haq Absar ul , Saleem Muhammad Shoaib , Zakir Sami Ullah
Published: April 2022

The study of convex functions is one of the most researched of the classical fields. Analysis of the geometric characteristics of these functions is a core area of research in this field; however, a paradigm shift in this research is the application of convexity in optimization theory. The Jensen-Mercer type inequalities are studied extensively in recent years. In the present paper, we extend Jensen-Mercer type inequalities for strong convex function. Some improved inequalities in Hölder sense are also derived. The previously established results are generalized and strengthened by our results.
Correlation Degree Analysis of Tourism and Economic Growth Based on Computable General Equilibrium Model
Authors: Li Meng
Published: April 2022

With the globalization of the world economy and the improvement of people’s living standards, tourism has become a “sunrise industry” in the modern economy. Around the world, tourism is becoming an important lifestyle and socio‐economic activity in modern human society, and showing a good development trend. With the continuous growth of tourist sources, the continuous expansion of industrial scale, the continuous publicity of tourism demand personality, the increasing enrichment of tourism products, the integration of market competition into every link of service, the gradual improvement of tourism quality and level, the widespread application of network, the rapid intensification of technological innovation for Tourism, the promotion of traditional culture, and the increasingly prominent cultural competition in tourism, Popular group tourism stands out. Whether in developed or developing countries, tourism plays an increasingly significant role in promoting social and economic development. It is particularly important to quantify the contribution of tourism in the national economy and which industries are better developed by tourism. It is of great significance for each tourism region and each region to formulate corresponding strategies for the development of current scenic spots, and also plays a greater role in promoting the coordinated development of tourism. By analyzing a large number of relevant data, according to the relevant research theories of tourism economics and the contribution of tourism development to the economy at home and abroad, firstly, this paper analyzes the development status of tourism resources in Gansu Province, and uses the time series analysis method to obtain the pulling effect of the increase of Tourism income on the economy; Secondly, the grey correlation degree is used to quantitatively analyze the relationship between tourism and other industries; Finally, according to the conclusion of the article and the research results of many scholars, this paper puts forward the Countermeasures of how to better develop tourism and promote economic development to a greater extent. The development of tourism has a very important impact on expanding social demand.
Effect of Intensive Psychological Nursing Intervention on HAMD and SF-36 Scores in Patients with Severe Liver Cancer in ICU
Authors: Zhang Yimin , Lu Qingyun , Li Ning , Lu Yanxia
Published: April 2022

The aim of the study was to explore the effect of intensive psychological nursing intervention on HAMD and SF-36 scores in patients with severe liver cancer in intensive care unit (ICU). 134 critically ill patients with liver cancer in ICU who underwent resection of primary liver cancer from July 2019 to November 2021 were selected. The patients were randomly divided into control group and study group. The patients in the control group received routine nursing. The patients in the study group received intensive psychological nursing intervention on the basis of routine nursing. Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), and the MOS 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) scores before and after nursing were compared between the two groups. The satisfaction of the two groups of patients with nursing was counted. The HAMA, HAMD, and SF-36 scores of patients receiving intensive psychological nursing intervention were significantly better than those receiving routine nursing. The nursing satisfaction of patients receiving intensive psychological nursing intervention was significantly higher than that of patients receiving routine nursing. Intensive psychological nursing intervention for patients with severe liver cancer in ICU can significantly reduce HAMD, improve SF-36 score, and patient nursing satisfaction. It is worthy of wide clinical promotion.
Nursing Diagnosis of Urology Operating Room Based on New Association Classification Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Hongyan
Published: April 2022

Due to the rapid development of medical engineering, massive amounts of data are recorded and preserved by various medical instruments. Therefore, finding relationships among data and summarizing clinical manifestations are of great significance to the diagnosis, treatment, and medical research of various diseases. The key to studying the nursing diagnosis support system, particularly in the urological operating room, is to select an effective classification algorithm, which is suitable for the characteristics of urological diseases. Initially, we have analyzed characteristics of urological diseases through medical data mining. Secondly, based on the traditional data mining classification method and urological disease diagnosis research, we have introduced the urological disease experimental source dataset and analyzed characteristics of the disease. Furthermore, classification algorithm and steps were introduced such as decision tree (including ID3, C4.5), Bayesian classification, BP neural network, and association rule classification algorithms. These algorithms are used to make relevant comparative experiments on the urological disease dataset. Finally, based on the diagnosis of urological diseases, a new association classification algorithm (ACCF), which is based on frequent closed item sets, is proposed along with suitable explanation. In order to verify the operational capabilities, the proposed algorithms are implemented in C++ and compared with the classification effect of traditional association classification algorithms and data mining methods. Both theoretical analysis and experiment results show that the proposed algorithm has resolved various deficiencies of the existing data mining algorithms and equally improved the accuracy of urological disease classification and prediction.
Epithelial Membrane Protein 1 Promotes Sensitivity to RSL3-Induced Ferroptosis and Intensifies Gefitinib Resistance in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Wang Ying , Zhang Liang , Yao Changyu , Ma Yunxia , Liu Yehai
Published: April 2022

Epithelial membrane protein (EMP1), a member of the peripheral myelin protein (PMP22) family, is involved in the development of various human malignancies. However, the expression level of EMP1 and its functional role in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remain unclear to date. Ferroptosis, a newly characterized form of regulated cell death, plays an essential role in tumorigenesis. In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression levels of EMP1 in HNSCC and normal tissues, as well as to identify the function of EMP1 in regulating ferroptosis during the progression of HNSCC. To further explore the biological function of EMP1 in vitro, transient transfection was used to overexpress EMP1 in the HNSCC cell lines Hep2 and Detroit562. Functionally, our results indicated that EMP1 overexpression could not affect the initiation of ferroptosis directly but reinforced RSL3-induced ferroptosis on HNSCC cells. Furthermore, mechanical study indicated that EMP1 mediated the ferroptosis via cell density-regulated Hippo-TAZ pathway and regulated the expression of Rac1 and NOX1. In addition, our study demonstrated that EMP1 overexpression could promote gefitinib resistance by targeting the MAPK pathway. In summary, our findings indicate that EMP1 may act as an oncogene and serve as a therapeutic target against malignant progression of HNSCC.
Fractional Analysis of Dissipative Viscous Fluid Flow with Mixed Convection and Variable Viscosity
Authors: Mouldi Abir , Marzouki Riadh , El Ouni Mohamed Hechmi , Bariq Abdul
Published: April 2022

Time‐dependent viscosity and thermal conductivity have been studied in relation to flow and thermal energy propagation along a vertical turning cone. Except the density variance, the other fluid’s properties are assumed to be constant. Using the similarities procedure, the nonlinear system of differential equations is simplified to dimensionless ODEs. The resultant nonlinear ODEs system is computed while using fractional code FDE12, and the findings are quantitatively examined using the bvp4c approach for accuracy and consistency. In form of figures and tables, the behavior of momentum, energy, and mass is interpreted versus the physical constraints. The axial and radial velocity, both declines with the variation of unsteadiness parameter S. The axial velocity of the fluid is considerably increased when the mixed convection parameter is elevated, but the radial velocity is reduced. Similarly, when the variable viscosity increases, the velocity profile develops.
The Commutators of Multilinear Maximal and Fractional-Type Operators on Central Morrey Spaces with Variable Exponent
Authors: Wang Liwei
Published: April 2022

We show that the maximal operator associated with multilinear Calderón-Zygmund singular integrals and its commutators are bounded on products of central Morrey spaces with variable exponent. Moreover, some bounded properties are obtained for the commutators of multilinear Calderón-Zygmund operators as well as for the corresponding fractional integrals.
Hyper-Methylated Hub Genes of T-Cell Receptor Signaling Predict a Poor Clinical Outcome in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hu Zixin , Xue Chongxiang , Zheng Jiabin , Lu Xingyu , Li Jia , Dong Huijing , Yu Yixuan , Zhang Xu , Tan Kexin , Cui Huijuan
Published: April 2022

Background. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) emerge as the first-line treatment of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD); selection of subpopulations acquiring clinical benefit is required. Associations between epigenetic modulation of tumor microenvironment (TME) and clinical outcome are far from clear. We focused on immune-related genes closely regulated by DNA methylation to identify the potential clinical outcome indicators. Methods. We systematically calculated immunophenotype score (IMpS) and classified immunophenotypes based on seven TME features in three independent cohorts. The overlapping of differential expressed genes and methylated probes targeted genes was regarded as genes closely regulated by DNA methylation. Then, probe/gene pairs which highly correlated with each other and IMpS were identified and named as immune-related probe/gene pairs (mIMg). Prognostic mIMg were selected and verified in seven independent validation cohorts. Results. Three immune phenotypes were clustered, and similar results were obtained in the three independent training cohorts. C2 displayed as an immunologically hot phenotype, whereas C3 corresponded with immunologically cold phenotype. Average methylation level was decreased from C2 to C3 (C2 > C1 > C3). Similarly, ICIs nonresponders showed global hypo-methylation compared with responders. Genes in mIMg were mainly enriched, especially in T-cell receptor activation, and repressed in noninflamed TME by hyper-methylation. Among mIMg, low expression and hyper-methylation of CD247, LCK, and PSTPIP1 were risk factors of overall survival (OS). ICIs nonresponders were more likely to be hyper-methylated in the three genes. By integrating with the oncogenes status, we demonstrated that EGFR wt and SRGN overexpressed patients were associated with chronic inflammation and immune evasion, showing an immunologically hot phenotype, which might lead to the short OS but derive clinical benefit from ICIs. Conclusions. This study identifies hyper-methylation and concurrent repression of CD247, LCK, PSTPIP1 as immune negative indicators and risk factors for prognosis in LUAD. Moreover, EGFR/SRGN axis may participate in immune modification to influence ICIs response and clinical outcome in LUAD.
AlGaN/GaN Heterostructure Schottky Barrier Diodes with Graded Barrier Layer
Authors: Liu Honghui , Liang Zhiwen , Yan Chaokun , Liu Yuebo , Wang Fengge , Xu Yanyan , Shen Junyu , Xiao Zhengwen , Wu Zhisheng , Liu Yang , Wang Qi , Wang Xinqiang , Zhang Baijun
Published: April 2022

The AlGaN/GaN Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) working as high-power mixer and multiplier show great potential in millimeter wave (MMW) field owing to their high breakdown voltage. Nevertheless, its further application is severely limited by large reverse leakage current (Jr) since the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) channel is hard to be pinched off at low voltage. To address this limitation, a graded AlGaN/GaN heterostructure is introduced to extend the 2DEG channel into a quasi-three-dimensional electron slab. By comparing the fixed Al composition AlGaN/GaN SBD, Jr of the graded AlGaN/GaN SBD is significantly reduced due to the extension of channel carriers, confirming the effective Jr suppression effect of this structure. Furthermore, on this basis, a recessed anode structure is utilized to expect a smaller Jr. The results indicated that the graded AlGaN/GaN SBDs with air-bridge structure have achieved a pretty low Jr value (1.6 × 10−13 A at -15 V), and its cutoff frequency is as high as 60.6 GHz. It is expected that such SBDs with low Jr have significant advantages in future applications.
Idiopathic Nonsurgical Pneumoperitoneum in Healthy Individuals after Endoscopy: Coincidence or Consequence?
Authors: Lee Jong Soo , Yang Dong-Hoon , Kim Eun Hee , Park Jin Hwa , Park Sungwon , Park Hye Won
Published: April 2022

Idiopathic pneumoperitoneum has an unknown etiology despite exploratory laparotomy. However, it may occur without definite abdominal symptoms; thus, adequate management could be in clinical dilemma. We experienced three cases of idiopathic nonsurgical pneumoperitoneum in healthy individuals during a health check-up. Their cases were not accompanied by any relevant etiology or definite abdominal symptoms. All of the three cases exhibited a benign clinical course. The three patients underwent an abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan as part of a health check-up program, which incidentally revealed free air in the right paracolic gutter without evidence of visceral perforation or inflammation. Among the three cases, two patients underwent colonoscopy before abdominal CT, whereas one patient did not. Two cases were completely asymptomatic and were observed without any treatment in the outpatient clinic. Only the third case with minimal symptoms was treated conservatively for a short time. If a small amount of free air typically located in the right paracolic gutter is detected in the absence of perforation during colonoscopy, close observation without unnecessary treatment would be sufficient.
miR-155: An Important Role in Inflammation Response
Authors: Hu Jingyan , Huang Songli , Liu Xiaoli , Zhang Yuan , Wei Shengli , Hu Xiuhua
Published: April 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small, mature, noncoding RNA that lead to posttranscriptional gene silencing to regulate gene expression. miRNAs are instrumental in biological processes such as cell development, cell differentiation, cell proliferation, and cell apoptosis. The miRNA-mediated gene silencing is an important part of the regulation of gene expression in many kinds of diseases. miR-155, one of the best-characterized miRNAs, has been found to be closely related to physiological and pathological processes. What is more, miR-155 can be used as a potential therapeutic target for inflammatory diseases. We analyze the articles about miR-155 for nearly five years, review the advanced study on the function of miR-155 in different inflammatory cells like T cells, B cells, DCs, and macrophages, and then summarize the biological functions of miR-155 in different inflammatory cells. The widespread involvement of miR-155 in human diseases has led to a novel therapeutic approach between Chinese and Western medicine.
Growth and Tolerance of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Varieties to Pre and Postemergence Graminicides
Authors: Zimbere Ellen , Mashingaidze Nester , Muzemu Simbarashe , Rugare Joyful Tatenda
Published: April 2022

The use of herbicides for weed control in arable crop production is known to be fast and effective. However, there is paucity of information on the safety of commonly used grass herbicides on emergence, growth, and productivity of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) genotypes currently being grown in Zimbabwe. A study was carried out in Zimbabwe during the 2017/18 cropping season in Gokwe South to evaluate the effect of alachlor, metolachlor, propaquizafop, and fluazifop-p-butyl on seed germination, growth, and yield of three sesame genotypes, namely, IETC, Lind 02, and Ziada 94. A laboratory experiment was laid in a completely randomised design with genotype and herbicide type as the factors. Seed germination, radicle, and plumule length were recorded at the end of the experiment. In the pot studies, two separate experiments were carried out to evaluate the effect of pre and postemergence herbicides on 50% emergence, plant height, number of branches, 50% flowering, number of pods, and yield of three sesame genotypes. The laboratory experiment results revealed significant (

p
<
0.05

) interactions among varieties and preemergence graminicides for germination percentage, radicle length, plumule length, and germination vigor index. Alachlor and metolachlor differentially reduced all germination parameters in the sesame genotypes used in the study. In the preemergence pot studies, there were significant (

p
<
0.05

) interactions on 50% emergence, plant height, and number of branches but not on number of pods and yield. Metolachlor significantly reduced all the measured parameters in IETC and Ziada 94. In the postemergence pot study, propaquizafop significantly (

p
<
0.05

) reduced plant height, number of pods, and yield of sesame more than fluazifop-p-butyl and hand pulling. It can be concluded that metolachlor and propaquizafop are not safe for use in these sesame genotypes at dosage rates that were used in this study. There is need for further screening of more sesame genotypes for tolerance to these and other commonly used genotypes to avoid unintentional phytotoxic damage on sesame.
Existence and Uniqueness of the Solution for an Inverse Problem of a Fractional Diffusion Equation with Integral Condition
Authors: Oussaeif Taki-Eddine , Antara Benaoua , Ouannas Adel , Batiha Iqbal M. , Saad Khaled M. , Jahanshahi Hadi , Aljuaid Awad M. , Aly Ayman A.
Published: April 2022

The solvability of the fractional partial differential equation with integral overdetermination condition for an inverse problem is investigated in this paper. We analyze the direct problem solution by using the “energy inequality” method. Using the fixed point technique, the existence and uniqueness of the solution of the inverse problem on the data are established.
Mathematical and Statistical Models with Applications of Spread of Private Tutoring in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Talal Abdulrahman Alanazi , Attiya Adel A.
Published: April 2022

Over the past century, private tutoring (PT) in many countries has increased dramatically. Moreover, the main disadvantage of PT is that has a byproduct and a characteristic on the educational system in developing countries in terms of contributing to conditions such as large class sizes, low public expenditures, and an inadequate number of universities. In Saudi Arabia, the spread of PT at school and university levels has yet to be addressed by researchers. One goal of this examination was to research the spread of PT in relation to mathematics being taught at school and university levels. This investigation used quantitative data of the questionnaire to determine the reasons for the spread. A total of 1000 students responded from University of Ha’il. The edge plans given results that are associated and like the assessment that is performed with the whole data. The current study found that a good family financial situation and lack of parental supervision of the children were significant factors underlying the spread of private tutoring at school and university levels.
Hypoxia Acclimation Protects against Heart Failure Postacute Myocardial Infarction via Fundc1-Mediated Mitophagy
Authors: Li Qin , Liu Yinghai , Huang Qingqing , Yi Xiaobo , Qin Fuen , Zhong Zuling , Lin Lu , Yang Haihong , Gong Gu , Wu Wei
Published: April 2022

Mitochondrial dysfunction is the main cause of heart failure (HF) postacute myocardial infarction (AMI). Hypoxia acclimation (HA) reduces efficiently the area of AMI caused by ischemia and/or reperfusion and delays HF. Here, we examined whether HA improves mitochondrial structure and function through the hypoxic autophagy receptor FUNDC1 to prevent HF post-AMI. Male adult mice were acclimated in a low-pressure hypoxic animal chamber (11% oxygen (O2)) for 8 h/day for 28 days, and then, an induced HF post-AMI model via left anterior descending (LAD) artery ligation was structured to explore the efficacy and mechanism of HA. Our results showed that HA exposure can improve cardiac structure and function in mice with HF post-AMI and protected myocardial mitochondrial morphology and function. Further studies showed that HA increased the expression of Fundc1 protein and its associated mitophagy protein LC3 in myocardial tissue after infarction. We then established a cellular model of oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) in vitro, and knockdown of FUNDC1 attenuated the protective effect of HA exposed on cardiomyocyte mitochondria and increased cardiomyocyte apoptosis. In conclusion, the protective effect of HA on HF post-AMI is achieved by regulating Fundc1-mediated mitophagy in myocardial tissue. FUNDC1-mediated mitophagy could be a promising strategy to treat cardiovascular diseases, including HF.
The Application of Connotative Teaching in Private Colleges Based on Kano Model
Authors: Qiu Youmei , Li Wei
Published: April 2022

Connotative development of higher education is of great significance in China. To promote this endeavor, this paper has established a connotative teaching system based on the Kano model and has applied it in the teaching of statistics. Guided by the fundamental demands of students, this system is built from the four perspectives, including students, third-party evaluation institutions, schools, and morality and law. It also takes the advantages of the Kano model, featuring the three dimensions of essential demand quality, expected demand quality, and charismatic demand quality. The paper also describes a two-year experiment to test the effect of the Kano-model-based connotative teaching system. It has collected more than 200 effective samples and compared the performance of students in private colleges. The results are as follows: the connotative teaching of statistics guided by the Kano model can meet the demands of students in private colleges and improve their comprehensive scores. This model shows remarkable performance and will promote the reform on connotative teaching.
Study on the Mechanism of Action of Paclitaxel-Loaded Polylactic-co-glycolic Acid Nanoparticles in Non-Small-Cell Lung Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Zuo Yangsong , Shen Wenyi , Wang Lili , Wang Chengshi , Pu Juan
Published: April 2022

Objective. To study effective carriers that can enhance the antitumor effect of paclitaxel (PTX). Methods. PTX-loaded polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) (PTX-PLGA NPs), constructed using the emulsification solvent evaporation method, were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. Non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) cells were divided into the dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) group, PLGA NPs group, PTX group, and PTX-PLGA NPs group. Cell viability was detected by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), cell apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry, and cell migration and invasion were assessed using Transwell assay. Results. PTX-PLGA NPs were smooth in the surface and spherical in shape, with a particle size of

268
±
1.3

 nm. Both PTX and PTX-PLGA NPs could effectively inhibit the activity of A549 and H1650 cells. At 12 and 24 h, PTX-PLGA NPs presented weaker inhibition on the activity of NSCLC cells than PTX, but at 48 and 72 h, PTX-PLGA NPs presented stronger inhibition. Compared with PTX, PTX-PLGA NPs were more effective in enhancing apoptosis and inhibiting migration and invasion of NSCLC cells. Conclusion. With good sustained release and the ability to promote cellular uptake, PTX-PLGA NPs can strongly inhibit the malignant activities of NSCLC cells, which can be used as a promising drug carrier.
Plant Density and Time of White Lupine (Lupinus Albus L.) Relay Cropping with Tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) in Additive Design in the Highlands of Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Hunegnaw Yirsaw , Alemayehu Getachew , Ayalew Dereje , Kassaye Mulatu
Published: April 2022

Agronomic strategies such as choosing the optimal row ratio and planting legume crops at the right time are crucial for enhancing crop productivity. A field experiment was conducted in 2016 and 2017 to assess the influence of plant density and lupine intercropping time on tef field productivity. The treatments were as follows: tef was planted at a 20 cm inter-row spacing, lupine was sown at 20 and 40 cm inter-row spacing (row ratio of 1 tef: 1 lupine and 2 tef: 1 lupine) and lupine intercropped three times (1, 2, and 3 weeks after tef planting). Randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications were used. Two sole tef and lupine were planted. The results revealed 40 cm inter-row spacing and delayed lupine intercropping (3 weeks after tef planting) provided the maximum tef grain yield of 1.80 t ha−1. The sole cropping of lupine produced the highest lupine grain yield (2.63 t ha−1). Lupine intercropping at 40 cm inter-row spacing and two weeks after tef planting resulted in the highest land equivalent ratio (1.54), tef equivalent yield (2.45 t ha−1), area time equivalent ratio (1.11), system productivity index (2.5), monetary advantage index (15206 birr ha−1), net benefit (65109 birr ha−1), and marginal rate of return (602%). Therefore, farmers in the northwest Ethiopian highlands should consider intercropping lupine two weeks after tef planting in-between two rows of tef as an effective intercropping system.
Anethole Ameliorates Acetic Acid-Induced Colitis in Mice: Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
Authors: Ghasemi-Dehnoo Maryam , Safari Amir Abbas , Rahimi-Madiseh Mohammad , Lorigooini Zahra , Moradi Mohammad Taghi , Amini-Khoei Hossein
Published: April 2022

Anethole has possessed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant responses in numerous studies. Oxidative stress has a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of colitis. The current study is designed to determine the effect of anethole on acetic acid-induced colitis in mice in view of its possible anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In this study, 48 mice were grouped into 6 groups (n = 8), and colitis was induced with 0.2 ml of 7% acetic acid. Mice received intraperitoneally (i.p.) for 7 constant days normal saline and/or anethole at doses of 31.25, 62.5, 125, and 250 mg/kg, respectively. After treatments, the colon was dissected out, and histopathological changes, expression of inflammatory genes (IL-1β, TNF-α, and TLR4), and evaluation of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were assessed. The results showed that colitis is associated with edema and inflammatory responses in all layers and severe damage to the epithelium of the colon. Colitis causes a decrease in TAC, an increase in MDA levels, and an increase in inflammatory genes in the colon. Findings determined that anethole ameliorated the adverse effects of acetic acid-induced colitis in the colon. It is concluded that anethole, partially at least, possessed protective effects in acetic acid-induced colitis in mice through attenuation of oxidative stress and inflammatory response.
A Rare Cause of a Rare Disorder: E. coli-Induced Purpura Fulminans Secondary to Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Lowry Jacob , Noel Edva
Published: April 2022

Purpura fulminans is a devastating thrombotic disorder infrequently encountered in medical practice and amongst the medical literature. It is a hematologic emergency in which prompt recognition and initiation of treatment are critical to mitigate its significant morbidity and mortality. Surgical evaluation is commonly required, since the debilitating skin and soft tissue necrosis often degenerate into necrotizing fasciitis, critical limb ischemia, warranting surgical interventions in either a staged or single-step approach. Purpura fulminans can be neonatal, infectious, or idiopathic. Infection-induced purpura fulminans is less common, and only a few microorganisms have been associated with this condition: Meningococcus spp., Pneumococcus spp., or Staphylococcus spp. This report presents a rare case of Escherichia coli-induced purpura fulminans. Apart from the unfortunate partial amputation of all left-hand five digits, our patient made a full recovery following effective infectious source control, supportive care with volume resuscitation, anticoagulation, and wound care.
Effect of Acupuncture on Delayed Emesis for the Patients Who Received High-Emetogenic Chemotherapy with Standard Antiemetic Prophylaxis (KHMC-HO-01): An Open-Label, Randomized Study
Authors: Maeng Chi Hoon , Lee Seunghoon , Han Jae Joon , Kim Hong Jun , Nam Dongwoo , Lee Junhee , Baek Sun Kyung
Published: April 2022

Background. Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is one of the most important issues associated with chemotherapy. The additional or synergistic effect of acupuncture on CINV remains controversial. Methods. Patients were randomized into either the group that received standard antiemetics with acupuncture (Arm A) or standard antiemetics only (Arm C). Acupuncture with manual stimulation was applied at eight predefined points and was started before the first cycle of chemotherapy on the first day and two additional sessions were administered on the second day of chemotherapy. Acute and delayed CINV was assessed using the Rhodes Index of Nausea, Vomiting, and Retching (RINVR) and the MASCC Antiemesis Tool (MAT). The primary outcome was the delayed nausea score assessed using the RINVR. Results. Overall, 42 patients were included. In the delay phase, the severity of delayed nausea was slightly lower without significance in Arm A than in Arm C (5.35 vs. 5.98,

p

 = 0.3011). Similarly, patients in Arm A reported less severe vomiting than those in Arm C (0.75 vs. 1.25,

p

 = 0.3064). Delayed nausea and vomiting assessed by the MAT showed significant relief with acupuncture compared to standard antiemesis alone. In terms of acute emesis, there was no significant difference between the two arms according to either scoring method. Conclusions. Delayed nausea after HEC tended to decrease with acupuncture using the RINVR score, though it was also not significant. With the MAT assessment, delayed emesis (nausea and vomiting) was significantly improved with acupuncture, suggesting a promising effect of acupuncture. This trial is registered with KCT0006477.
Transcriptome Profiling ofADAR1Targets in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells Reveals Mechanisms for Regulating Growth and Invasion
Authors: Baker Allison R. , Miliotis Christos , Ramírez-Moya Julia , Marc Talia , Vlachos Ioannis S. , Santisteban Pilar , Slack Frank J.
Published: April 2022

ADARs catalyze adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) editing of double-stranded RNA and regulate global gene expression output through interactions with RNA and other proteins. ADARs play important roles in development and disease, and previous work has shown that ADAR1 is oncogenic in a growing list of cancer types. Here we show that ADAR1 is a critical gene for triple-negative breast cancer cells, as ADAR1 loss results in reduced growth (viability and cell cycle progression), invasion, and mammosphere formation. Whole transcriptome sequencing analyses demonstrate that ADAR1 regulates both coding and noncoding targets by altering gene expression level, A-to-I editing, and splicing. We determine that a recoding edit in filamin B (FLNB chr3:58156064) reduces the tumor suppressive activities of the protein to promote growth and invasion. We also show that several tumor suppressor miRNAs are upregulated upon ADAR1 loss and suppress cell-cycle progression and invasion. This work describes several novel mechanisms of ADAR1-mediated oncogenesis in triple-negative breast cancer, providing support to strategies targeting ADAR1 in this aggressive cancer type that has few treatment options.

Implications:

Targeting ADAR1 and thus downstream FLNB editing and miRNA regulation represents a possible novel therapeutic strategy in triple-negative breast cancer.