bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant Mechanisms Underlying the Gastroprotective Effect of Menthofuran on Experimentally Induced Gastric Lesions in Rodents
Authors: Alves Naira Moura , Nunes Paulo Humberto Moreira , Mendes Garcez Anderson , Lima de Freitas Manoela Carine , Oliveira Irisdalva Sousa , Silva Francilene Vieira da , Fernandes Hélio de Barros , Sousa Damião Pergentino de , Oliveira Rita de Cássia Meneses , Arcanjo Daniel Dias Rufino , Martins Maria do Carmo de Carvalho e
Published: April 2023

Menthofuran is a monoterpene present in various essential oils derived from species from Mentha genus, and in Brazil, those species are widely used in treating gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders. Considering the wide pharmacological potential of monoterpenes, including their antioxidant activity, this study aimed to evaluate menthofuran‐gastroprotective activity, as well as the involvement of antioxidant mechanisms in this effect. The acute toxicity was evaluated according to the fixed dose method. The antiulcerogenic activity was investigated by using experimental models of gastric ulcers induced by ethanol, indomethacin, and ischemia/reperfusion in rats. The antisecretory gastric activity, the catalase activity, and the gastric wall mucus were determined in pylorus ligated rats. Gastric wall nonprotein sulfhydryl (NPSH) group content, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were evaluated in ethanol‐induced the gastric ulcer model. Menthofuran (2 g/kg) presented low acute toxicity and showed gastroprotective activity against ethanol‐, indomethacin‐, and ischemia/reperfusion‐induced ulcers. Moreover, menthofuran presented antisecretory activity, reduced the total acidity, and increased pH of gastric secretion. On the other hand, a decrease in mucus content of gastric wall without alteration of gastric juice volume and catalase activity was observed. Interestingly, menthofuran increased NPSH levels and reduced MDA levels and MPO activity. Gastroprotective effects of menthofuran appear to be mediated, at least in part, by the NOS pathway, endogenous prostaglandins, reduced gastric juice acidity, increased concentration of the NPSH groups, and reduced lipidic peroxidation. These findings support the menthofuran as an effective gastroprotective agent, as well as the marked participation of antioxidant mechanisms in this response.
A Bibliographic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Effect of Teaching Behaviors on Learners’ Performance in Videotaped Lectures
Authors: Zhang Qinghong , Yu Zhonggen
Published: April 2023

Although the discussion about the influence of the instructor-present videos has become a hot issue in recent years, the potential moderators on the effectiveness of an on-screen instructor have not been thoroughly synthesized. The present review systematically retrieves 47 empirical studies on how the instructors’ behaviors moderated online education quality as measured by learning performance via a bibliographic study using VOSviewer and meta-analysis using Stata/MP 14.0. The bibliographic networks illustrate instructors’ eye gaze, gestures, and facial expressions attract more researchers’ attention. The meta-analysis results further reveal that better learning performance can be realized by integrating the instructor’s gestures, eye guidance, and expressive faces with their speech in video lectures. Future studies can further explore the impact of instructors’ other characteristics on learning perception and visual attention including voice, gender, age, etc. The underlying neural mechanism should also be considered via more objective technologies.
Data from Gene-Level Germline Contributions to Clinical Risk of Recurrence Scores in Black and White Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Patel Achal , García-Closas Montserrat , Olshan Andrew F. , Perou Charles M. , Troester Melissa A. , Love Michael I. , Bhattacharya Arjun
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Continuous risk of recurrence scores (CRS) based on tumor gene expression are vital prognostic tools for breast cancer. Studies have shown that Black women (BW) have higher CRS than White women (WW). Although systemic injustices contribute substantially to breast cancer disparities, evidence of biological and germline contributions is emerging. In this study, we investigated germline genetic associations with CRS and CRS disparity using approaches modeled after transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS). In the Carolina Breast Cancer Study, using race-specific predictive models of tumor expression from germline genetics, we performed race-stratified (N = 1,043 WW, 1,083 BW) linear regressions of three CRS (ROR-S: PAM50 subtype score; proliferation score; ROR-P: ROR-S plus proliferation score) on imputed tumor genetically regulated tumor expression (GReX). Bayesian multivariate regression and adaptive shrinkage tested GReX-prioritized genes for associations with tumor PAM50 expression and subtype to elucidate patterns of germline regulation underlying GReX-CRS associations. At FDR-adjusted P < 0.10, 7 and 1 GReX prioritized genes among WW and BW, respectively. Among WW, CRS were positively associated with MCM10, FAM64A, CCNB2, and MMP1 GReX and negatively associated with VAV3, PCSK6, and GNG11 GReX. Among BW, higher MMP1 GReX predicted lower proliferation score and ROR-P. GReX-prioritized gene and PAM50 tumor expression associations highlighted potential mechanisms for GReX-prioritized gene to CRS associations. Among patients with breast cancer, differential germline associations with CRS were found by race, underscoring the need for larger, diverse datasets in molecular studies of breast cancer. These findings also suggest possible germline trans-regulation of PAM50 tumor expression, with potential implications for CRS interpretation in clinical settings.
Significance:
This study identifies race-specific genetic associations with breast cancer risk of recurrence scores and suggests mediation of these associations by PAM50 subtype and expression, with implications for clinical interpretation of these scores.
Supplementary Figure S2 from Precision Cut Lung Slices as a Preclinical Model for Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Chemoprevention
Authors: Sompel Kayla , Smith Alex J. , Hauer Caroline , Elango Alamelu P. , Clamby Eric T. , Keith Robert L. , Tennis Meredith A.
Published: April 2023

Supplementary Figure S2 shows a dot blot for Figure 4C.
Data from Precision cut lung slices as a preclinical model for non-small cell lung cancer chemoprevention
Authors: Sompel Kayla , Smith Alex J. , Hauer Caroline , Elango Alamelu P. , Clambey Eric T. , Keith Robert L. , Tennis Meredith A.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Lung cancer chemoprevention is critical to addressing cancer burden in high-risk populations. Chemoprevention clinical trials rely on data from pre-clinical models however, in vivo studies have high financial, technical, and staffing requirements. Precision cut lung slices (PCLS) provide an ex vivo model that maintains the structure and function of native tissues. This model can be used for mechanistic investigations and drug screenings and reduces the number of animals and time required to test hypotheses compared to in vivo studies. We tested use of PCLS for chemoprevention studies, demonstrating recapitulation of in vivo models. Treatment of PCLS with the PPARγ agonizing chemoprevention agent iloprost produced similar effects on gene expression and downstream signaling as in vivo models. This occurred in both wildtype tissue and in Frizzled 9 knockout tissue, a transmembrane receptor required for iloprost’s preventive activity. We explored new areas of iloprost mechanisms by measuring immune and inflammation markers in PCLS tissue and media, and immune cell presence with immunofluorescence. To demonstrate potential for drug screening, we treated PCLS with additional lung cancer chemoprevention agents and confirmed activity markers in culture. PCLS offers an intermediate step for chemoprevention research between in vitro and in vivo models that can facilitate drug screening prior to in vivo studies and support mechanistic studies with more relevant tissue environments and functions than in vitro models.
The DNA Damage Response and Inflammation in Cancer
Authors: Klapp Vanessa , Álvarez-Abril Beatriz , Leuzzi Giuseppe , Kroemer Guido , Ciccia Alberto , Galluzzi Lorenzo
Published: April 2023

Genomic stability in normal cells is crucial to avoid oncogenesis. Accordingly, multiple components of the DNA damage response (DDR) operate as bona fide tumor suppressor proteins by preserving genomic stability, eliciting the demise of cells with unrepairable DNA lesions, and engaging cell-extrinsic oncosuppression via immunosurveillance. That said, DDR sig­naling can also favor tumor progression and resistance to therapy. Indeed, DDR signaling in cancer cells has been consistently linked to the inhibition of tumor-targeting immune responses. Here, we discuss the complex interactions between the DDR and inflammation in the context of oncogenesis, tumor progression, and response to therapy.

Significance:

Accumulating preclinical and clinical evidence indicates that DDR is intimately connected to the emission of immunomodulatory signals by normal and malignant cells, as part of a cell-extrinsic program to preserve organismal homeostasis. DDR-driven inflammation, however, can have diametrically opposed effects on tumor-targeting immunity. Understanding the links between the DDR and inflammation in normal and malignant cells may unlock novel immunotherapeutic paradigms to treat cancer.
Dendritic Melanocytic Hyperplasia in Pterygia: A Potential Source of Diagnostic Confusion with Primary Acquired Melanosis
Authors: Oh Angela J , Glasgow Ben J
Published: April 2023

Introduction: The aim of this study was to report the nearly ubiquitous prevalence of melanocytic hyperplasia in benign pterygia/pingueculae and establish that the entity is insufficiently recognized. Methods: This is a retrospective immunohistochemical pathology case series of 30 consecutive pterygia/pingueculae samples selected from an ophthalmic pathology database at a single institution. Histopathologic and immunohistochemistry analyses with anti-SOX-10 and anti-MART-1 antibodies were used for identifying melanocytes. The number of squamous cells intervening between melanocytes was determined. Results: The frequency of dendritic melanocytes was found to meet the criteria for dendritic melanocytic hyperplasia in 29 of 30 pterygia/pingueculae samples using specific antibodies. Melanocytes were found in several patterns: diffuse (28%), multifocal (28%), and focal (44%). In each case, the melanocytes were distributed as single melanocytes at the base; clusters of melanocytes were seen in 17% of samples. There were an average of about two intervening epithelial cells between melanocytes at the base. Conclusion: When diagnosed with immunohistochemistry, dendritic melanocytic hyperplasia is nearly ubiquitous in pterygia and pingueculae. Melanocytic hyperplasia may have a distribution that includes nests and single melanocytes above the basal layer, which can be confused with forms of primary acquired melanosis. It is important for pathologists to recognize these lesions as a distinct benign clinicopathologic entity.
Oligogenic Architecture of Rare Noncoding Variants Distinguishes 4 Congenital Heart Disease Phenotypes
Authors: Yu Mengyao , Aguirre Matthew , Jia Meiwen , Gjoni Ketrin , Cordova-Palomera Aldo , Munger Chad , Amgalan Dulguun , Rosa Ma X. , Pereira Alexandre , Tcheandjieu Catherine , Seidman Christine , Seidman Jonathan , Tristani-Firouzi Martin , Chung Wendy , Goldmuntz Elizabeth , Srivastava Deepak , Loos Ruth J.F. , Chami Nathalie , Cordell Heather , Dreßen Martina , Mueller-Myhsok Bertram , Lahm Harald , Krane Markus , Pollard Katherine S. , Engreitz Jesse M. , Gagliano Taliun Sarah A. , Gelb Bruce D. , Priest James R.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is highly heritable, but the power to identify inherited risk has been limited to analyses of common variants in small cohorts.

Methods:

We performed reimputation of 4 CHD cohorts (n=55 342) to the TOPMed reference panel (freeze 5), permitting meta-analysis of 14 784 017 variants including 6 035 962 rare variants of high imputation quality as validated by whole genome sequencing.

Results:

Meta-analysis identified 16 novel loci, including 12 rare variants, which displayed moderate or large effect sizes (median odds ratio, 3.02) for 4 separate CHD categories. Analyses of chromatin structure link 13 of the genome-wide significant loci to key genes in cardiac development; rs373447426 (minor allele frequency, 0.003 [odds ratio, 3.37 for Conotruncal heart disease];
P
=1.49×10
−8
) is predicted to disrupt chromatin structure for 2 nearby genes
BDH1
and
DLG1
involved in Conotruncal development. A lead variant rs189203952 (minor allele frequency, 0.01 [odds ratio, 2.4 for left ventricular outflow tract obstruction];
P
=1.46×10
−
8
) is predicted to disrupt the binding sites of 4 transcription factors known to participate in cardiac development in the promoter of
SPAG9
. A tissue-specific model of chromatin conformation suggests that common variant rs78256848 (minor allele frequency, 0.11 [odds ratio, 1.4 for Conotruncal heart disease];
P
=2.6×10
−
8
) physically interacts with
NCAM1
(
P
FDR
=1.86×10
−
27
), a neural adhesion molecule acting in cardiac development. Importantly, while each individual malformation displayed substantial heritability (observed h2 ranging from 0.26 for complex malformations to 0.37 for left ventricular outflow tract obstructive disease) the risk for different CHD malformations appeared to be separate, without genetic correlation measured by linkage disequilibrium score regression or regional colocalization.

Conclusions:

We describe a set of rare noncoding variants conferring significant risk for individual heart malformations which are linked to genes governing cardiac development. These results illustrate that the oligogenic basis of CHD and significant heritability may be linked to rare variants outside protein-coding regions conferring substantial risk for individual categories of cardiac malformation.
Association of Body Mass Index With Clinical Features and Outcomes in Adults With Fontan Palliation
Authors: Yogeswaran Vidhushei , Anigwe Christopher , Salahuddin Ayesha , Aggarwal Anika , Moon Grady Anita J. , Harris Ian S. , Sabanayagam Aarthi , Kouretas Peter C. , Mahadevan Vaikom S. , Agarwal Anushree
Published: April 2023

Background

With improving survival of patients with single ventricle physiology who underwent Fontan palliation, there is also an increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity in these patients. This tertiary care single‐center study aims to determine the association of body mass index (BMI) with the clinical characteristics and outcomes in adults with Fontan.

Methods and Results

Adult patients (aged ≥18 years) with Fontan who were managed at a single tertiary care center between January 1, 2000, and July 1, 2019, and had BMI data available were identified via retrospective review of medical records. Univariate and multivariable (after adjusting for age, sex, functional class, and type of Fontan) linear and logistic regression, as appropriate, were utilized to evaluate associations between BMI and diagnostic testing and clinical outcomes. A total of 163 adult patients with Fontan were included (mean age, 29.9±9.08 years), with a mean BMI of 24.2±5.21 kg/m
2
(37.4% of patients had BMI ≥25 kg/m
2
). Echocardiography data were available for 95.7% of patients, exercise testing for 39.3% of patients, and catheterization for 53.7% of patients. Each SD increase in BMI was significantly associated with decreased peak oxygen consumption (
P
=0.010) on univariate analysis and with increased Fontan pressure (
P
=0.035) and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (
P
=0.037) on multivariable analysis. In addition, BMI ≥25 kg/m
2
was independently associated with heart failure hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 10.2; 95% CI, 2.79–37.1 [
P
<0.001]) and thromboembolic complications (AOR, 2.79; 95% CI, 1.11–6.97 [
P
=0.029]).

Conclusions

Elevated BMI is associated with poor hemodynamics and worse clinical outcomes in adult patients with Fontan. Whether elevated BMI is the cause or consequence of poor clinical outcomes needs to be further established.
Differences in Adherence to American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8, Diet Quality, and Weight Loss Strategies Between Those With and Without Recent Clinically Significant Weight Loss in a Nationally Representative Sample of US Adults
Authors: Hill Emily B. , Cubellis Lauren T. , Wexler Randell K. , Taylor Christopher A. , Spees Colleen K.
Published: April 2023

Background

The American Heart Association defines ideal cardiovascular health based on 8 risk factors (Life's Essential 8 [LE8]); a high LE8 score (range 0–100) reflects greater adherence to their recommendations. Weight status influences cardiovascular health, yet individuals may use detrimental diet and weight loss strategies to improve weight status. We assessed differences in LE8 adherence, diet quality, and weight loss strategies between those with and without a recent history of clinically significant weight loss (CSWL).

Methods and Results

Data from 2007 to 2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey questionnaires, clinical measures, and 24‐hour dietary recalls were assessed to determine LE8 adherence, diet quality (Healthy Eating Index), and weight loss strategies between adults with: (1) intentional CSWL ≥5%; and (2) non‐CSWL <5%, weight maintenance, or weight gain over the past 12 months using ANCOVA and chi‐square tests. Those with CSWL demonstrated higher scores for diet quality (
P
=0.014), physical activity (
P
<0.001), and blood lipids (
P
<0.001). Those without CSWL reported lower BMI (
P
<0.001). There were no differences in total LE8 cardiovascular health scores between those with and without CSWL. More individuals with CSWL reported weight loss strategies of exercising (
P
=0.016); those without CSWL reported skipping meals (
P
=0.002) and using prescription diet pills (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

Greater adherence to the LE8 recommendations was observed among individuals with CSWL, although overall LE8 scores were low. Future research should address the implementation of evidence‐based strategies that improve diet quality while promoting optimal cardiovascular health among those with intent to lose weight.
Mortality and Major Adverse Cardiac Events in Patients With Breast Cancer Receiving Radiotherapy: The First Decade
Authors: Jacobs Johanna E. J. , L'Hoyes Wouter , Lauwens Lieselotte , Yu Yu‐Ling , Brusselmans Marius , Weltens Caroline , Voigt Jens‐Uwe , Wildiers Hans , Neven Patrick , Herrmann Joerg , Thijs Lutgarde , Staessen Jan A. , Janssens Stefan , Van Aelst Lucas N. L.
Published: April 2023

Background

Treatment for breast cancer (BC) frequently involves radiotherapy. Guidelines recommend screening for cardiac adverse events starting 10 years after radiotherapy. The rationale for this interval is unclear.

Methods and Results

We aimed to study cardiovascular event rates in the first decade following curative radiotherapy for BC. We compared mortality and cardiovascular event rates with an age‐ and risk factor‐matched control population. We included 1095 patients with BC (mean age 56±12 years). Two hundred and eighteen (19.9%) women died. Cancer and cardiovascular mortality caused 107 (49.1%) and 22 (10.1%) deaths, respectively. A total of 904 cases were matched to female FLEMENGHO (Flemish Study on Environment, Genes and Health Outcomes) participants. Coronary artery disease incidence was similar (risk ratio [RR], 0.75 [95% CI, 0.48–1.18]), yet heart failure (RR, 1.97 [95% CI, 1.19–3.25]) and atrial fibrillation/flutter (RR, 1.82 [95% CI, 1.07–3.08]) occurred more often in patients with BC. Age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.033 [95% CI, 1.006–1.061],
P
=0.016), tumor grade (HR, 1.739 [95% CI, 1.166–2.591],
P
=0.007), and neoadjuvant treatment setting (HR, 2.782 [95% CI, 1.304–5.936],
P
=0.008) were risk factors for mortality. Risk factors for major adverse cardiac events were age (HR, 1.053 [95% CI, 1.013–1.093];
P
=0.008), mean heart dose (HR, 1.093 [95% CI, 1.025–1.167];
P
=0.007), history of cardiovascular disease (HR, 2.386 [95% CI, 1.096–6.197];
P
=0.029) and Mayo Clinic Cardiotoxicity Risk Score (HR, 2.664 [95% CI, 1.625–4.367];
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

Ten‐year mortality following curative treatment for unilateral BC was mainly cancer related, but heart failure and atrial fibrillation/flutter were already common in the first decade following irradiation. Mean heart dose, pre‐existing cardiovascular diseases, and Mayo Clinic Cardiotoxicity Risk Score were risk factors for cardiac adverse events. These results suggest a need for early dedicated cardio‐oncological follow‐up after radiotherapy.
C-Reactive Protein, Interleukin-6, and Vascular Recurrence After Stroke: An Individual Participant Data Meta-Analysis
Authors: McCabe John J. , Walsh Cathal , Gorey Sarah , Harris Katie , Hervella Pablo , Iglesias-Rey Ramon , Jern Christina , Li Linxin , Miyamoto Nobukazu , Montaner Joan , Pedersen Annie , Purroy Francisco , Rothwell Peter M. , Sudlow Catherine , Ueno Yuji , Vicente-Pascual Mikel , Whiteley William , Woodward Mark , Kelly Peter J.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Anti-inflammatory therapies reduce recurrent vascular events in coronary disease. Existing studies have reported highly conflicting findings for the association of blood inflammatory markers with vascular recurrence after stroke leading to uncertainty about the potential of anti-inflammatory therapies after stroke and no consensus about the utility of measurement of inflammatory markers in current guidelines.

Methods:

We investigated the association between hsCRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein), IL-6 (interluekin-6), and recurrent major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and stroke from individual participant data from 8420 patients with ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack from 10 prospective studies. We did within-study multivariable regression analyses and then combined adjusted risk ratio (RR) by random-effects meta-analysis.

Results:

During 18 920 person-years of follow-up, 1407 (16.7% [95% CI, 15.9–17.5]) patients had MACE and 1191 (14.1% [95% CI, 13.4–14.9]) patients had recurrent stroke. On bivariate analysis, baseline IL-6 was associated with MACE (RR, 1.26 [95% CI, 1.10–1.43]) and recurrent stroke (RR, 1.18 [95% CI, 1.05–1.32]), per unit increase log
e
IL-6. Similar associations were observed for hsCRP (MACE RR, 1.19 [95% CI, 1.09–1.29]; recurrent stroke RR, 1.12 [95% CI, 1.04–1.21], per unit increase log
e
hsCRP). After adjustment for vascular risk factors and treatment, independent associations remained with MACE (IL-6, RR, 1.12 [95% CI, 1.04–1.21]; hsCRP, RR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.04–1.15]) and recurrent stroke (IL-6, RR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.00–1.19]; hsCRP, RR, 1.05 [95% CI, 1.00–1.11]). Comparing the top with the bottom quarters (Q4 versus Q1), IL-6 (RR, 1.35 [95% CI, 1.09–1.67]) and hsCRP (RR, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.07–1.61]) were associated with MACE after adjustment. Similar results were observed for recurrent stroke for IL-6 (RR, 1.33 [95% CI, 1.08–1.65]) but not hsCRP (RR, 1.16 [95% CI, 0.93–1.43]).

Conclusions:

Blood markers of inflammation were independently associated with vascular recurrence after stroke, strengthening the rationale for randomized trials of anti-inflammatory therapies for secondary prevention after ischemic stroke/TIA.
Description length guided nonlinear unified Granger causality analysis
Authors: Li Fei , Lin Qiang , Zhao Xiaohu , Hu Zhenghui
Published: April 2023

Most Granger causality analysis (GCA) methods still remain a two-stage scheme guided by different mathematical theories; both can actually be viewed as the same generalized model selection issues. Adhering to Occam’s razor, we present a unified GCA (uGCA) based on the minimum description length principle. In this research, considering the common existence of nonlinearity in functional brain networks, we incorporated the nonlinear modeling procedure into the proposed uGCA method, in which an approximate representation of Taylor’s expansion was adopted. Through synthetic data experiments, we revealed that nonlinear uGCA was obviously superior to its linear representation and the conventional GCA. Meanwhile, the nonlinear characteristics of high-order terms and cross-terms would be successively drowned out as noise levels increased. Then, in real fMRI data involving mental arithmetic tasks, we further illustrated that these nonlinear characteristics in fMRI data may indeed be drowned out at a high noise level, and hence a linear causal analysis procedure may be sufficient. Next, involving autism spectrum disorder patients data, compared with conventional GCA, the network property of causal connections obtained by uGCA methods appeared to be more consistent with clinical symptoms.
Resting State Network Segregation Modulates Age-Related Differences in Language Production
Authors: Zhang Haoyun , Diaz Michele T.
Published: April 2023

Older adults typically exhibit decline in language production. However, how the brain supports or fails to support these processes is unclear. Moreover, there are competing hypotheses about the nature of age-related neural changes and whether age-related increases in neural activity reflect compensation or a decline in neural efficiency. In the current study, we investigated the neural bases of language production focusing on resting state functional connectivity. We hypothesized that language production performance, functional connectivity, and their relationship would differ as a function of age. Consistent with prior work, older age was associated with worse language production performance. Functional connectivity analyses showed that network segregation within the left hemisphere language network was maintained across adulthood. However, increased age was associated with lower whole brain network segregation. Moreover, network segregation was related to language production ability. In both network analyses, there were significant interactions with age—higher network segregation was associated with better language production abilities for younger and middle-aged adults, but not for older adults. Interestingly, there was a stronger relationship between language production and the whole brain network segregation than between production and the language network. These results highlight the utility of network segregation measures as an index of brain function, with higher network segregation associated with better language production ability. Moreover, these results are consistent with stability in the left hemisphere language network across adulthood and suggest that dedifferentiation among brain networks, outside of the language network, is a hallmark of aging and may contribute to age-related language production difficulties.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Combined with Bone Transport Improves Bone Defect in Rats
Authors: Qiu Ting , Wu Chenhuan , Cai Ying
Published: April 2023

This study assessed the mechanism of BMSC combined with bone transport in improving bone defect. Fifty rats were divided into five sets randomly including NC set, DEX set, BMSC set and BT set. There were ten rats in each set. The BMSC was isolated using whole bone marrow adherent method and then cultivated. The general condition of rats in each set was observed and morphological parameter, pathological change in bone defect tissue was detected along with analysis of the expression of MCP-1, p53, TNF-αand STAT1 in bone tissue. The primary BMSC was cultivated for seven days and the fusiform BMSC was enlarged and the quantity of binucleate or multinucleate cells was increased after passage. The bone defect model was prepared successfully when the degree of fusion reached 100%. The mental condition was good. DEX set showed significantly reduced TBV and increased TRS compared with NC set. However, TBV was increased and TRS was reduced in BMSC set, BT set and BMSC+BT set significantly compared with DEX set. MCP-1 mRNA level in DEX set was lower and increased in the treatment group. In addition, p53, TNF-αand STAT1 was increased in DEX set but reduced in BMSC set, BT set and BMSC+BT set. In conclusion, MCP-1 in rats’ bone defect tissue is upregulated and the p53/TNF-α/STAT1 signal activity is restrained by BMSC combined with bone transport so as to treat the bone defect.
Role of Magnesium in Tumor Microenvironment and Underlying Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Nie Xiaojing , Shi Yonghua , Cui Tingting , Lin Chen
Published: April 2023

Magnesium (Mg) based biomaterials have gained increased attention in various health care applications, as orthopedic transplants in particular. It is also reported that they also have anti-tumor properties. Mg based alloy materials can actively interfere with the growth of tumor cells, which may be its degradation products, including OH−and H2. During the degradation of Mg, ions and hydrogen (H2) are continuously increasing and pH value and osmotic pressure in the microenvironment of the material surface are increased at the same time. Such near-surface effects can also have a dramatic impact on residual tumor cells, interfere with the cycle of tumor cells as well as reduce the content of reactive oxygen species. Therefore, the intake level of Mg based alloys and Mg content will affect the growth activity of many tumor cells. Keeping these points in view, this article reviews the role of Mg in tumor microenvironment and underlying molecular mechanisms, in particular it’s degradation behavior.
Bushen Huoxue Recipe Inhibits Renal Fibrosis by Regulating the Reactive Oxygen Species/Nucleotide-Binding Oligomerization Domain-Like Receptor Family Pyrin Domain-Containing 3-Induced Pyroptosis Pathway
Authors: Chen Xian , Lu Jianrao
Published: April 2023

To probe the role and specific mechanism of Bushen Huoxue Recipe in inhibiting renal fibrosis (RF), 150 healthy adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to sham operated group (SO group), model group (UUO group), conventional treatment group (UUO+EPL group), high-dose Bushen Huoxuefang group (UUO+H group), and low-dose Bushen Huoxue Recipe group (UUO+L group), with 30 mice in each group. The UUO, UUO+EPL, UUO+H, and UUO+L groups showed decreased pathological damage scores in rat renal tissue and increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (Cr), interleukin-1β(IL-1β), IL-18, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and caspase-1 levels compared with the SO group. The expression of NLRP3, type III collagen (Col-III), matrix fibronectin (FN), andα-smooth actin (α-SMA) increased (P<0.05). Inflammatory cells aggregated in rat kidney tissue, and some renal tubular cells atrophied, fell off, vacuolized, underwent pyknosis, and the shape of tubules was incomplete. The lumen was enlarged, and the DNA damage was greater. The UUO+EPL, UUO+H and UUO+L groups showed increased pathological damage score of rat renal tissue and decreased expression levels of Cr, BUN, hs-CRP, IL-1β, IL-18, caspase-1, NLRP3, FN, Col-III, andα-SMA than UUO group. After a longer period, the UUO+EPL and UUO+H groups decreased more significantly than the UUO+L group. We conclude that Bushen Huoxue Recipe inhibits RF by regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS)/NLRP3-induced pyroptosis pathway.
Influence of annealing ambience on structural and piezoelectric properties of single crystal LiTaO3 thin film
Authors: Fan Wei , Shuai Yao , Pan Xinqiang , Luo Wenbo , Wu Chuangui , Huang Shitian , Wan Limin , Wang Yuedong , Zhang Wanli
Published: April 2023

The crystal-ion-slicing technology is a promising technology for fabricating high-quality single crystal piezoelectric thin films. This work attempted to investigate the influence of annealing ambience on the properties of LiTaO3 thin films fabricated by crystal-ion-slicing
technology. Here, two 4-inch 42° rotated Y-X propagation LiTaO3 thin films were fabricated, as well as the LiTaO3 thin films were annealed in vacuum and O2 environment, respectively. The results demonstrate that the LiTaO3 thin films annealed
in O2 environment possesses more homogeneous and denser structure and fewer defects. The Zratio of the resonators fabricated on the LiTaO3 thin films annealed in O2 environment is approximately 85.3 dB and the Q-factor reaches 5107, indicating the
excellent piezoelectric properties of thin films.
Dual plasmon-Induced transparency in two-dimensional metamaterials with coupled resonators
Authors: Li Ping
Published: April 2023

We herein report a numerical investigation of dual plasmon induced transparency (PIT) effect in two-dimensional plasmonic metamaterials composed of two C-shaped resonators and one U-shaped resonator. The finite difference time domain (FDTD) method is herein introduced to analyze transmission
properties and electromagnetic field distributions of certain resonance wavelengths. It was found that, the PIT spectral response was affected by parameters of plasmonic metamaterials, such as the widths of C-shaped resonator and U-shaped resonator, and edge-to-edge distance between the adjacent
resonators. The dual PIT effect can be attributed to the near field coupling between the dark and bright modes. The plasmonic nanostructures can provide useful guidelines for dual PIT effect in metamaterials, to support applications in selective storage, bio-chemical nanosensors, plasmonic-based
all-optical information processing and optical switches.
Synthesised silver nanoparticles mediate interdigitated nanobiosensing for sensitive Pneumonia identification
Authors: Su Lili , Ren Zhenqing , Chen Xia , Feng Guoqin , Zhou Lijuan
Published: April 2023

Pneumonia is a life-threatening disease and at present, a large population of humans is affected by pneumonia worldwide. It is a serious issue causing complications of acquired immune deficiency syndrome infection. Most people are affected in low-and middle-income countries. Until now
pneumonia is mainly diagnosed by smear microscopy and is not easily available in the area of low-income settings. This research was conducted with a sensing strategy on interdigitated microelectrode (IDME) to identify the lower level of the target, ‘procalcitonin’. In addition,
procalcitonin can distinguish the community-acquired viral pathogens, which helps to provide a suitable treatment. IDME was physically modified by a silver nanoparticle, and an anti-procalcitonin antibody was attached to a silver nanoparticle with amine and aldehyde linkers. On this IDME,
procalcitonin was quantified in a dose-dependent manner (10–320 ng/mL) and calculated the detection limit to 10 ng/mL on a linear coefficient regression analysis [y = 2.2821×−2.6871; R2 = 0.9904]. Specific performances with control proteins that did
not increase the current were revealed the specific identification of procalcitonin. This experiment created a sensing strategy to identify procalcitonin as a suitable biomarker.
Application of silver nanoparticles in the treatment of central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Chen Yao , Su Fanfan , Su Bo
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study was to explore the therapeutic effect of silver nanoparticles in the treatment of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). After the establishment of CSC in New Zealand rabbits (n = 128), the animals were treated with iodized lecithin tablets by gavage
(ILT only, n = 64) or ILT gavage followed by injection of silver nanoparticles into the vitreous cavity (SN, n = 64). The sum retinal layer thickness of SN group before gavage was lower than that of ILT group, and the total retinal thickness of SN group after gavage was also
lower than that of ILT group. There were interaction effects between groups and time (Fgroup effect = 42.570, Ftime effect = 19.250, Finteraction effect = 2.885, all P < 0.05). Electroretinograms showed lower peak latency in oscillatory
potential (OP1, OP2, and OP3) in the SN group than in the ILT group before and after gavage (intergroup effect: F1 = 40.280, F2 = 52.760, F3 = 133.700; time effect: F1 = 10.330, F2
= 9.082, F3 = 93.760; interaction effects: F1 = 4.204, F2 = 3.059, F3 = 12.260; all P < 0.05). The b-wave amplitudes and total amplitudes were higher in the SN group than in the ILT group before and after gavage
(intergroup effect: F1 = 10.540, F2 = 13.270; time effect: F1 = 25.910, F2 = 35.120; interaction effects: F1 = 2.817, F2 = 5.264; all P < 0.05). No significant differences
in intraocular pressure were observed, and there were no interaction effects (Fintergroup effect = 0.046, Ftime effect = 0.001, Finteraction effect = 0.027, all P > 0.05). We conclude that silver nanoparticles provide a significant
therapeutic effect on CSC in rabbits, ensuring the integrity of retinal morphology, structure, function, and limiting damage to visual function.
Density Functional Theory Calculation of N–H2S Hydrate
Authors: Zhonghua Liu , Jiangfeng Zou , Qiang Luo , Zhiwei Ma , Yi Qiu , Heng Yang , Zhenhai Wu
Published: April 2023

This study establishes a high-symmetry water cage structure model (structure N) based on the density functional theory first-principles technique. Three high-symmetry H2S hydrates (N–H2S hydrate) are examined in terms of their geometric structures, electrical
characteristics, and optical characteristics. The structure of three N–H2S hydrates is most stable when H2S is in the center of water cage with small hydrogen bonds, and the molecular orientation of H2S has little effect on the structure of hydrate. The
energy band of H2S enters forbidden band, resulting in the band gap of N–H2S hydrate being much less than that of water cage. A formation energy of −0.128 eV is reached when H2S DOS shift to the higher energy zone and the water cage DOS shift more
to the lower energy region. The three N–H2S hydrates also possess various reflectivity characteristic peaks in the energy range of 5–12.5 eV, which might be exploited for electromagnetic detection of N–H2S hydrates. The findings of this research may
serve as a theoretical foundation for related experiments.
Surface Preparation and Cytocompatibility of Three-Dimensional Printed Fully Degraded Coronary Stents Using the Plasma Polymerization Technology
Authors: Yu Hanqiao , Yu Yubin , Li Chao , Feng Lina
Published: April 2023

Vascular stents made based on three-dimensional (3D) printing technology for interventional therapy have become one of the more common clinical means to treat patients with severe coronary heart disease (CHD). However, the biocompatibility of stent surface needs to be further improved.
Over the past years, many researchers have adopted surface modification technology to improve the cytocompatibility of vascular stents. In this work, plasma polymerization (PP) technology was employed to introduce the allylamine (AA) and nitrogen with different concentrations as auxiliary
gases. After ionization, fragmentation, and recombination, the surface of the stent was deposited to form amine-rich coatings (AMMak membrane and AMMak-N membrane). The composition and surface morphology of the coating were analyzed by physical characterization (infrared, X-ray photoelectron
spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), contact angle (CA), etc.). In addition, the cytocompatibility of the coating before and after modification was evaluated by using the endothelial cells (EC) implantation test. The biodegradable substrate
(MgZnMn, Fe) was employed to deposit the amine-rich coatings and evaluate their cytocompatibility. The results told that the polymeric coating had a higher concentration of amine group when the nitrogen flow rate was at 5 sccm, and the coating was conductive to the adhesion and proliferation
of ECs by adsorbing proteins. After the introduction of biodegradable substrate, the amino group on the coating surface further improved the cytocompatibility of the material. The PP technology can be applied to prepare a relatively dense PP coating, which can be further precipitated and solvent-free
deposition. Therefore, it is very suitable for modifying the surface of degradable vascular stent materials.
The Role of the North Atlantic Blocking High during Large-Scale Heavy Rainfall Events over Central India
Authors: Nikumbh Akshaya C. , Thakur A. B. S. , Chakraborty Arindam , Bhat G. S. , Sukhatme Jai
Published: April 2023

Large-scale extreme rainfall events (LEREs) over central India are produced by monsoon low pressure systems (LPSs) when assisted by a secondary cyclonic vortex (SCV). Both the LPS and the SCV are embedded in a monsoon trough and form mainly during the positive phase of the boreal summer intraseasonal oscillation. Here, we observe that tropical–extratropical interactions exist during LEREs. Using ray tracing, we show that extratropical Rossby waves propagate to the Indian subcontinent during the summer monsoon season. Stationary Rossby wave rays originating over the North Atlantic Ocean reach India following approximately a great circle path at midtropospheric levels. This pathway appears to play an important role in tropical–extratropical interactions during LEREs. Seventy-seven percent of LEREs are preceded by a North Atlantic blocking high and 90% by a quasi-stationary central Asian high. The Atlantic blocking high triggers a quasi-stationary Rossby wave response and strengthens the downstream central Asian high. In turn, the quasi-stationary central Asian high facilitates Rossby wave breaking, transporting high-PV streamers and cutoffs equatorward. The central Asian high is in close proximity to the monsoon trough in the mid- and lower troposphere. It interacts with the monsoon trough over the northwest Indian subcontinent. The equatorial monsoon trough is strengthened due to the supply of dynamic forcing and static instabilities from the extratropics. This additional forcing from the extratropics creates an environment that is conducive for LEREs.
A Deep-Learning Reconstruction of Tropical Cyclone Size Metrics 1981–2017: Examining Trends
Authors: Zhuo Jing-Yi , Tan Zhe-Min
Published: April 2023

Observed climate records of length, homogeneity, and reliability are the basis of climatological studies on tropical cyclones (TCs). However, such data are scarce for TC size in terms of wind field, particularly over the western North Pacific (WNP). This study demonstrates that deep learning can practically bridge this data gap when applied to satellite data. Using transfer learning, deep learning algorithms were developed to estimate reliable TC sizes from infrared imagery for the WNP TCs. The algorithms were then applied to a homogeneous satellite database to reconstruct a new historical dataset of TC sizes, named DeepTCSize, which covers 37 years (1981–2017) over the WNP. DeepTCSize includes multiple TC size quantities, such as wind radii of 17, 26, and 33 m s−1 and maximum winds (i.e., R17, R26, R33, and RMW), which have high correlations (R = 0.85, 0.84, 0.79, and 0.76, respectively) with postseason quality-controlled best track data. Comparisons with ocean wind observations were made and this further revealed that DeepTCSize has good quality and is free from spurious error trends, providing an advantage over the historical “best estimates” of TC sizes currently available in the best track archives for the WNP. The new reconstructed TC sizes dataset for the WNP TCs shows significant expanding trends in the annual-mean outer circulations (at a rate of 2% decade−1 for R17 and a rate of 2% decade−1 for R26), which are mainly associated with weaker storms, as well as a weak contracting trend in the annual-mean inner-core size (RMW).

Significance Statement

Tropical cyclone (TC) size largely controls the TC-induced hazard and risk. If the size of TC can be determined more efficiently in observations spanning a long-enough period, the climatology and changes in TC can be better modeled and understood. This study applies deep learning methods to reconstruct a new dataset of multiple inner- to outer-core TC size metrics from infrared imagery of satellites for the western North Pacific TCs. The dataset spans 37 years. It is homogenous and has comparable accuracy with the existing “best estimates.” Using the dataset, a significant expanding trend was identified in the outer-core size, while the inner-core size exhibits a weak contracting trend. The dataset can be employed in several applications.
Interannual Variations in the Intraseasonal Variability of Spring Precipitation over Southern China and the Possible Mechanisms
Authors: Zeng Zixuan , Sun Jianqi
Published: April 2023

This study first investigates the interannual variations in spring precipitation intraseasonal variability over southern China (SC). The results show that SC spring precipitation exhibits distinct intraseasonal variations with a period of 7–25 days. The first mode of 7–25-day precipitation intraseasonal variability (PIV) displays a monopole pattern over SC, and the PIV magnitude is largely determined by the upward motion intensity during intraseasonal precipitation events. Further analysis suggests that two atmospheric wave trains are observed during intraseasonal precipitation events, which propagate eastward from the North Atlantic along the northern and southern paths. In strong PIV years, the two wave trains can propagate to East Asia and show coordinated influences. The resultant low pressure to the west of SC causes strong upward motion and PIV over SC by bringing strong zonal vorticity and meridional temperature advection. In weak PIV years, the southern wave train can only propagate to the Bay of Bengal; therefore, the northern wave train plays a major role. The resultant low pressure is now over the upper to middle reaches of the Yangtze River, which causes relatively weak upward motion and PIV over SC by bringing weak meridional vorticity and temperature advection. Further analysis indicates that the sea surface temperature (SST) condition over the tropical Indian Ocean and the South China Sea is essential for southern wave train propagation. The warming SST over the regions can intensify westerlies to its north and consequently favors the propagation of the southern wave train to SC, eventually contributing to strong PIV over SC.