bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of polymeric nanoparticle-mediated calcium influx in treating slow transit constipation based on ryanodine receptor 2 signaling pathway
Authors: Kong Pengfei , Tang Xuemei , Zhang Zhibin , Tang Xuegui
Published: August 2023

Slow transit constipation (STC) has become a disease that seriously endangers public health. It is therefore essential to develop an effective strategy to prevent STC. Herein, this study explored the potential value of polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) on calcium (Ca2+) influx
release from sarcoplasmic reticulum and its role in STC. After preparation and characterization of NPs, STC intestinal epithelial cells were cultured and surface proteins were detected by flow cytometry, and then they were incubated with NPs. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was conducted
to detect Ryanodine Receptor 2 (RyR2), protein kinase A (PKA) and Adenylate cyclase (AC) expression level, while the expressions of Ca2+ leakage-specific proteins ORAI2 and Calreticulin (CRT) and related genes were also measured. Treatment with NPs resulted in a decreased expression
of Ca2+ leakage-specific genes, as well as reduced ORAI2, CRT, and Protein kinase A (KGF) levels, although their expressions were elevated over culture days. Of note is that, the expressions of PKA, RYR2 and AC increased in the presence of NPs, compared with control group. Collectively,
the NPs hinder Ca2+ influx, decrease expression of related genes and proteins, while activating RyR2 signaling pathways. These results suggest that, the NPs can restrict Ca2+ influx, thereby improving STC through regulation of RyR2 signaling pathway.
Dihydroartemisinin alleviates mitochondrial damage and improves cardiomyocyte pyroptosis and ferroptosis through Sirt1-mediated PGC-1α
Authors: Li Kunpeng , Zhang Nan , Yang Ming
Published: August 2023

This study assesses the effect of dihydroartemisinin on pyroptosis and ferroptosis. Rat H9C2 cardiomyocytes were intervened with 35 mmol/L high glucose through assigned blank control, dihydro artemisinin, and dihydroartemisinin+Sirt1 groups. Confocal microscopy was used to observe the
ROS levels, while proliferation ability was detected by CCK-8 method, and apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry, and migration ability by Transwell transfer method. Moreover, analysis of pyroptosis-related factors expression and content of lipid peroxide were done using laser confocal microscopy.
The average fluorescence intensity of dihydro artemisinin group and dihydroartemisinin+SIRT 1 group decreased significantly (P <0.05), among which the dihydroartemisinin+SIRT 1 group had lowest average fluorescence intensity (P <0.05). SIRT 1 level in the dihydroartemisinin
and dihydroartemisinin+SIRT 1 groups was higher than blank control (P <0.05), with highest level in the dihydroartemisinin+SIRT 1 group (P <0.05). Cell proliferation in the dihydroartemisinin and dihydroartemisinin+SIRT 1 group was reduced (P <0.05), with lowest
proliferation in combination group (P < 0.05). Cell migration in the dihydroartemisinin and dihydroartemisinin+SIRT 1 groups was reduced (P <0.05), with lowest number of migratory cells in the dihydroartemisinin+SIRT 1 group (P <0.05). Cell apoptosis in the dihydroartemisinin
and dihydroartemisinin+SIRT 1 groups was increased (P <0.05), with lowest apoptosis in the dihydroartemisinin+SIRT 1 group (P <0.05). There was upregulation of SIRT 1 and PGC-1α mRNA expression in the dihydroartemisinin and dihydroartemisinin+SIRT 1 groups
was elevated (P <0.05). The expression of NLRP3, GSDMD, and Caspase-1 were all decreased (P <0.05), while that of GPX4 was increased (P <0.05). Dihydroartemisinin inhibits the function of H9C2 cardiomyocytes, pyroptosis and ferroptosis, playing a positive role
in ameliorating Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM).
Lipid nanoparticles containing PlncRNA-1 promote apoptosis of liver cancer cells by down-regulating Wnt/beta-catenin signaling
Authors: Liu Juan , Wang Qin , Li Yusong , Hu Yan , Qin Andong
Published: August 2023

PlncRNA-1 has an anti-cancer property. Liposome nanoparticles (LNPs) are used as carriers of targeted drugs and contribute to tumor-targeted drug delivery. However, the interaction between LNPs containing PlncRNA-1 and β-catenin, a key component of Wnt signaling pathway,
and its role in liver cancer have not yet been confirmed. Human liver cancer cells were exposed to LNPs containing PlncRNA-1 at different concentrations followed by analysis of cell proliferation, cell cycle distribution and apoptosis. Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related gene expression
was determined. LNPs containing PlncRNA-1 dose-dependently suppressed the proliferation of liver cancer HepG2 cells with IC50 at 24 h, 48 h and 72 h of 12.8±0.67 μmol/L, 8.8±0.43 μmol/L and 4.6±0.42 μmol/L, respectively. PlncRNA-1-loaded LNPs
(5, 10, and 20 μmol/L) dose-dependently arrested HepG2 cells in G2/M phase and induced apoptosis (p > 0.05). Administration of LNPs carrying PlncRNA-1 decreased the expression of overall, cytoplasmic, and nuclear β-catenin, thereby suppressing Wnt/β-catenin
pathway. Protein expression levels of GSK-3 (p-tyr216) and Axin-2 were increased, while protein expression levels of Dvl-2, Dvl-3, GSK-3β, c-myc and survivin were significantly decreased. Invasion and metastasis of malignant tumors is an important factor. Inhibiting invasion of
cancer cells effectively might improve the prognosis of cancer patients. LNPs carrying PlncRNA-1 promoted cell cycle transition and cell apoptosis by decreasing the expression of Dvl-2, Dvl-3, intracellular β-catenin, cytoplasmic β-catenin, and total β-catenin
protein, which may relate to the inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
Curcumin inhibits vascular mimicry to prevent thyroid cancer progression through regulation of EPH receptor A2/phosphoinositide 3-kinase
Authors: Xie Xiaofeng , Yu Zhengyang , Jiang Xiaoqun , Tang Sijia
Published: August 2023

This study explored the impact of curcumin on vascular mimicry in thyroid cancer (TC) cells and underlying mechanism. TC cells (TPC-1) were exposed to curcumin at 15 and 30 μmol/L (low-dose and high-dose group) concentrations, respectively, with control group exposed to culture
medium. After treatment, cell migration, invasion, proliferation and apoptosis were detected along with analysis of EphA2 and PI3K expressions. The amount of migrated and invaded cells, EphA2 and PI3K protein expressions, Matrix metalloproteinase 2(MMP2), MMP9, CyclinD1, EphA2 and PI3K of
TPC-1 cells in curcumin groups were decreased (P < 0.05). Apoptosis, as well as Cleaved-caspase-3, Bax and p21 expressions increased (P < 0.05). Curcumin dose-dependently suppressed angiogenesis of TPC-1 cells (P < 0.05) and lumen formation. In addition, TPC-1
cells showed cell rearrangement and scattered tubules after conditioned medium of neurotrophic factor (NTF-CM) treatment, while the CM of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF-CM) (50%) and CAF-CM (100%) both significantly promoted vasculogenic mimicry in TPC-1 cells, with elevated amount of
tubules and junctions (P < 0.05). Moreover, treatment with ALW-II-41-27, which is an EphA2 inhibitor, alleviated the CAF-CM’s effect on vasculogenic mimicry (P < 0.05), and EphA2 knockdown decreased MMP2, MMP9, EphA2 and PI3K protein expressions when decelerating
tube formation in NTF-CM and CAF-CM groups (P < 0.05). Collectively, Curcumin suppresses malignant behaviors and hinders vascular mimicry of TC cells by inhibiting the EPHA2/PI3K pathway, thereby preventing malignant progression of TC.
Study on biological activity and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases of magnetic nanoparticles on hepatoma cells
Authors: Zhang Wenyuan , Zhang Chongling , Liu Shixin , Yang Yongjing
Published: August 2023

This study assessed effects of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) on biological activity of hepatoma cells. HepG2 cells were cultured with MNPs, then morphological changes, cell proliferation, number of cell clones, apoptosis, and expressions of p38MAPK and p53 were analyzed. Hepatoma cells
in the group grew fusiform and were connected with each other, while cell density and growth connection in the group B decreased, while cell number in group C decreased with changed cell morphology changed, while the number of cells in group D was least. The number of round suspension cells,
volume, and nucleus increased, and apoptotic bodies gradually appeared. Compared with group A, groups B, C and D had lower cell proliferation rate, clone number and higher apoptosis rate (P < 0.05). The expressions of p38 MAPK and p53 in groups B, C and D was decreased (P
< 0.05). The expression of p38MAPK and p53 in other groups was different (P < 0.05). MNPs changed cell morphology, reduced proliferation and clonal ability of HepG2 cells, and accelerated apoptosis, which is related to activation of p38MAPK and p53 expression.
Construction and performance study of double-layer periosteal material for repairing bone tissue damage
Authors: Huang Liangjie , Li Yuanfeng , Song Zhen
Published: August 2023

Microscopic observation is necessary for the treatment of bone tissue microloss. To observe the process of bone tissue maturation is an essential research content in the field of orthopaedics. In many cases, people have to distinguish between new bone and mature bone, sometimes involving
software calculation, and conventional HE staining obviously cannot fully meet the requirements. The quality of imaging directly affects the therapeutic effect of medical staff. In order to prove the effect of laser scanning confocal microscope (LSCM) on the observation of bone tissue micro
damage, a piece of pig iliac bone and a piece of human femoral head were selected. The two kinds of bone tissue were divided into three small pieces respectively, and then stained with calcein green and alizarin red, or added with 5 ml of 1000 ml/L ethanol, and then placed under the LSCM and
fluorescein Scanning under light microscope. This article uses silk fibroin as the raw material to prepare high-strength bilayer membranes using rotary evaporation method. Through relevant performance experiments, the results show that the mechanical properties of the double-layer silk fibroin
film are about 12.48 MPa, and the tensile strength at break is about 13.66%. With the addition of hydroxyapatite, the mechanical properties of the silk fibroin film are improved. The addition of VEGF has little effect on the mechanical properties, and the addition of growth factor has little
effect on the tensile strength of the material. The double-layer silk fibroin membrane was degraded in protease for 2 weeks, with a mass loss of about 19.3%. There was almost no degradation phenomenon in PBS solution; The release of VEGF from the double-layer silk fibroin membrane was about
17.3% after 2 weeks, with a relatively fast release rate in the early stage, and then the rate slowed down. The total release of VEGF decreased compared to the pure SF/VEGF membrane. Through the analysis of the scanning image, it is found that the image signal-to-noise ratio of alizarin red
stained human femoral head is 6.956 higher than that of fluorescence microscope. In terms of image error rate, fluorescence microscope is 4.228 higher than laser scanning confocal microscope. The edge definition of laser scanning confocal microscope was 22.17 higher than that of fluorescence
microscope, and the image clarity of stained bone tissue was higher than that of bone tissue only added ethanol. Therefore, the imaging effect of bone tissue staining is better, and the image generated by LSCM is higher than that generated by fluorescence microscope.
Paclitaxel nanocrystals carrying miR-200c inhibit prostate cancer in rats by regulating forkhead box protein O (FOXO) activity
Authors: He Jiang , Chen Yusheng , Jiang Liang
Published: August 2023

Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor in the male reproductive organs. Its incidence is increasing year by year, and therefore, this study investigated regulatory effect of paclitaxel nanocrystals on forkhead box protein O (FOXO) activity in rats with prostate cancer. Firstly, paclitaxel
nanocrystals carrying miRNA-200c were synthesized. Nine rats in the model control group were used to establish a tumor-bearing model. The rats were intervened with miRNA-200c in the miRNA-200c group on the basis of model group, and treated with paclitaxel nanosuspension in the paclitaxel nano
group. The rats were intervened with paclitaxel nano and miRNA-200c in the paclitaxel nano+miRNA-200c group. Tumor inhibition rates were measured, and tumor cell morphology was assessed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, while cell behaviors were detected by CCK-8, 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide
(MTT), AnnexinV-Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), and Transwell methods, which were used to analyze miRNA-200c and FOXO levels. Paclitaxel nanocrystals carrying miR-200c (PN-miR-200c) significantly slowed down the growth rate of prostate cancer. In addition, it also reduced the viability,
proliferation and invasion of rat PC3 cells, and increased cell apoptosis. On the other hand, PN-miR-200c further increased FoxO mRNA expression by activating FoxO pathway. The bioinformatics software RegRNA 2.0 predicted that, the specific target gene that may be regulated by miR-200c is
FoxO, which confirmed that, the miR-200c has a targeting relationship with FoxO. PN-miR-200c can activate FOXO pathway, up-regulate FoxO, reduce the biological behaviors of rat PC3 cells, increase apoptosis, and ameliorate histopathological damage, providing new ideas for clinical treatment
of prostate cancer.
TiW/SiOX:Al/TiW memristor with negative differential resistance effect for neuromorphic computing
Authors: Wu Facai , Tseng Tseung-Yuen
Published: August 2023

Memristors, acting as artificial synapses, are proposed to be a promising candidate for neuromorphic computing applications. In this work, the CMOS process-compatible TiW/SiOX:Al/TiW memristor with negative differential resistance (NDR) effect is explored for this application.
Nonpolar switching with a 340 on/off ratio, data retention beyond 106 s, and endurance of 106 cycles are realized. The device shows excellent analog behavior with nonlinearities of 1.69 and 0.65 of long-term potentiation and depression, respectively, under identical pulse
stimuli. The synaptic features such as long-term potentiation (LTP), long-term depression (LTD), spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP), and paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) are mimicked. Moreover, on the basis of the symmetry and linearity of the conductance of TiW/SiOX:Al/TiW
memristor, the neural network simulation for supervised learning presents successful pattern recognition, with an accuracy of 93.11% achieved after 20 iterations. It is proposed that the nonpolar NDR switching originates from the discontinuous Al metal nanoparticles that form deeply localized
states in the energy band and result in the trap/de-trap of electronic carriers. Overall, this memristor with the NDR effect presents a unique way to simulate artificial synapse behavior for neuromorphic computing.
Ochratoxin A oral mycotoxin and honey dietary intake effects on TNF-α immunology response, lactic acid bacteria microbial louds, β-glucuronidase enzyme activity, some hematological and biochemical parameters on mice
Authors: Al-Eisa Rasha A. , Helal Mahmoud , Aljahani Amani H. , Sami Rokayya , Banjer Hamsa Jameel , Algehainy Naseh A. , Alshahrani Mohammad Y. , Ashour Amal Adnan , Alqarni Ali A.
Published: August 2023

The current study aimed to evaluate ochratoxin A oral mycotoxin and the dietary intake effects of four honey varieties (Nigella sativa, moringa, sidr, and pumpkin–coded as NS, MO, SI, and PU respectively), on the TNF-α immunology response, lactic acid bacteria
microbial louds (Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria), β-glucuronidase enzyme activity, some hematological and biochemical parameters of mice. MO Honey Group + OTA Infection had the highest value of TNF-α immunology response at 445.17 pg/mL. It was followed
by PU Honey Group + OTA Infection at 360.88 pg/mL, while NS Honey Group + OTA Infection reported the lowest at 210.03 pg/mL. Honey dietary intake efficiently increased the colonic probiotic bacteria counts Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria, in the animal’s cecum from 0.93
in SI Honey Group + OTA Infection to 2.59 in MO Honey Group + OTA Infection and from 1.78 in PU Honey Group + OTA Infection to 3.22 in NS Honey Group + OTA Infection Log 10 CFU/g, respectively. The β-glucuronidases enzyme activity in the caecum contents of mice groups ranged from
0.31 μmol/g in PU Honey Group + OTA Infection to 0.36 μmol/g in SI Honey Group + OTA Infection. Positive and negative control mice groups reported 7.22 and 6.98 × 109 L−1; 8.09 and 8.44 × 1012 L−1 for white
blood cell and red blood cell counts, respectively. The mean glutathione concentrations were from 3.17 ng/g in MO Honey Group + OTA Infection, to 4.32 ng/g in SI Honey Group + OTA Infection. Catalase activities ranged from 0.99 u/gin MO Honey Group + OTA Infection to 1.08 u/g in the PU Honey
Group + OTA Infection. Honey dietary intake decreased malondialdehyde concentrations in infected mice groups and ranged from 3.84 nmol/g in NS Honey Group + OTA Infection to 5.47 nmol/g in MO Honey Group + OTA Infection. NS Honey Group + OTA Infection reported the lowest values for alkaline
phosphatase as 70.15 U L−1, glucose as 6.12 mmol L−1, and urea as 4.89 mmol L−1. SI Honey Group + OTA Infection reported the highest values for AP as 75.52 U L−1 and urea as 5.78 mmol L−1. PU Honey Group +
OTA Infection reported the lowest value for ALT as 55.47 U L−1 and the highest value for glucose as 7.88 mmol L−1.
Effects of prenatal nicotine exposure on vascular endothelial function and structure in offspring rats
Authors: Wang Mianmian , Yu Ermei , Zhou Kunlin , Liu Qingquan , Li Weiwei , Wang Zhenhua
Published: August 2023

To clarify the effect of prenatal nicotine exposure (PNE) on vascular endothelial function (VEF) in offspring rats, and to explore whether these effects are long-lasting and sex-dependent. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into two groups and exposed to either 102
mg/mL nicotine (experimental group) or normal saline (control group) through a subcutaneously implanted osmotic micropump. Vascular rings from the thoracic aorta were collected from offspring rats at 1, 4, and 12 months of age. The specimens were used to determine VEF using functional tests
and to observe morphologic and pathologic changes of blood vessels in hematoxylin and eosin-stained samples with light microscopy. The percentage of acetylcholine-induced endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation (EDV) of the thoracic aorta was significantly higher in the experimental group than
in the control group in 1-, 4-, and 12-month-old female offspring rats (18.68±2.32 vs. 13.85±6.10, 17.44±3.91 vs. 10.77±5.77, and 30.96±22.26 vs. 18.94±13.61, respectively; P <0.05). The percentage of acetylcholine-induced EDV was significantly
lower in the experimental group than in the control group in 1-, 4-, and 12-month-old male offspring rats (10.31±4.05 vs. 16.05±14.80, 5.57±2.81 vs. 12.12±5.62, and 11.98±7.24 vs. 58.87±32.43, respectively; P <0.05). The hematoxylin &
eosin-stained vascular rings of the offspring rats displayed an uneven lumen, scattered intimal thickening, partial shedding and vacuolar degeneration of endothelial cells, and inflammatory cell infiltration and phagocytosis in the experimental group. In addition, overt smooth muscle atrophy
in tunica media, disordered cell arrangement, and unclear structure of the elastic fiber layer was observed. None of these histopathologic changes were found in the control group. In adult offspring rats, PNE not only affected the VEF of the thoracic aorta but also led to pathologic changes
in the vascular structure. Additionally, the effects of PNE on VEF were sex-specific, manifesting primarily as significantly improved VEF in female offspring rats and significantly impaired VEF in male offspring rats, lasting into adulthood.
Asiaticoside promotes heart autonomic nerve repair through receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand pathway in coronary heart disease
Authors: Li Ya , Zhang Xiaolei , Liu Hong , Cai Ansheng , Zhao Danhua , Fan Liming , Ma Haifang
Published: August 2023

This experiment intends to observe the effects of Asiaticoside on angiotensin II (AngII)-induced coronary heart disease (CHD) by regulating nuclear factor κ-B ligand receptor activator and RANK pathway (RANKL/RANK). Cardiomyocytes of rats with CHD were divided into AngII
group (2 μmol/L), blank control group, and asiaticoside group (2 μmol/L and 10 μmol/L). After 24 hours of intervention, proliferation and apoptosis was assessed. At the same time, the expressions of RANKL, RANK and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)
were measured. Compared with blank group, the proliferation ability of cardiomyocytes with CHD in AngII group was significantly decreased and it increased after asiaticoside treatment (P <0.05). The apoptosis of cardiomyocytes in AngII group was higher than blank group and asiaticoside
group. Cardiomyocytes proliferation in asiaticoside group was the most obvious (P <0.05). α-SMA expression decreased in AngII group and increased after asiaticoside treatment (P <0.05). RANKL and RANK mRNA in CHD were significantly upregulated after administration
of asiaticoside (P <0.05). RANKL/RANK expression was high in normal CHD cardiomyocytes and reduced after Ang II stimulation. Asiaticoside promotes cardiomyocyte proliferation in CHD by promoting RANKL/RANK signaling, thereby reducing the possibility of heart failure in CHD.
Lidocaine nanoparticles alleviate postoperative pain in young mice undergoing cardiovascular closure surgery by inhibiting inflammatory response
Authors: Liu Jinmin , Zhang Peng , Hu Weibing , Wang Liyuan
Published: August 2023

One method for treating ventricular septal defect is cardiovascular interventional closure, but the operation is likely to cause inflammation and pain. The inflammatory response is related to inflammatory factors such as interleukin 6 (IL-6) and NF-κB and studies have found
that the regulation of inflammation is related to Gq protein. Lidocaine can effectively inhibit the inflammatory response and improve pain. Nanoparticles have on-target stability. Therefore, by constructing lidocaine nanoparticles, this paper explored whether lidocaine nanoparticles could
regulate the expression of Gq to mediate NF-κB, regulate the expression of inflammatory factor IL-6, and relieve postoperative pain. Lidocaine nanoparticles were constructed, prepared, and identified, and then injected into the young mice of the experimental group for modeling
and grouping. Probes were used to detect the pain threshold of young mice in each group and ELISA kits were used to detect the content of IL-6 in the blood. PCR and Western blot were used to detect the relative levels of Gq, NF-κB, and IL-6. According to the pain threshold, compared
with the sham operation group, lidocaine significantly reduced the pain threshold and the reduction effect of the lidocaine nano group was greater than that of the lidocaine aqueous solution group. Lidocaine nanoparticles can inhibit the expression of Gq protein and the reduced Gq expression
can inhibit the expression of NF-κB and IL-6. Lidocaine nano group can directly inhibit the expression of Gq protein to inhibit NF-κB signal transduction, thereby reducing the content of IL-6 and the inflammatory response and relieving postoperative pain.
The effect of perceived justice on users’ contribution in open source software communities
Authors: Zhou Tao
Published: August 2023

Users’ voluntary contribution of codes is crucial to the success of open source software (OSS) communities. However, users often lack the contribution motivation. The purpose of this research is to examine users’ contribution in OSS communities from a perceived justice perspective. We adopted a mixed method of structural equation modeling (SEM) and artificial neural network (ANN) to conduct data analysis. The results indicated that perceived justice, which includes distributive justice, procedural justice and interactional justice, has significant effects on trust and satisfaction, both of which further determine contribution intention. The results imply that OSS communities need to improve users’ perceived justice in order to facilitate their contribution behavior.
Visual measurement of the bearing diameter based on the homography matrix and partial area effect
Authors: Jiang Benchi , Du Xin , Wu Lulu , Zhu Jiawang
Published: August 2023

A measurement method based on the homography matrix and partial area effect is studied to improve the precision of the visual measurement of the bearing size. Firstly, the camera is calibrated to obtain its distortion coefficient, and the image is corrected for distortion. Secondly, the relationship between the pixel plane and the bearing imaging plane is determined by solving the homography matrix with a chessboard. Finally, the sub-pixel edge contour of the bearing is obtained through the improved partial area effect, and the pixel coordinates are mapped to the world coordinates according to the homography matrix. The feature size is obtained by fitting the mapping points. Experimental results showed that the transformation of the homography matrix is more accurate than the pixel equivalent in the process of converting the pixel size to the actual size. The improved partial area effect sub-pixel edge detection results are better than the partial area effect and Zernike moment. The measurement error for the bearing outer diameter is less than 0.05 mm and is within 0.5 pixel.
Spacetimeunconscious
Authors: Secor Anna J.
Published: August 2023

This article argues for an understanding of material geographies as invested with an unconscious dimension. I put forward the notion of spacetimeunconscious not as an inverse, double, or ‘other’ to Karen Barad's concept of spacetimematter, but as a supplement. Manifesting the spacetimeunconscious through the technique of montage, I draw together a range of phenomena, from the icing of water and the flashing of lightning to the awakenings of traumatised and displaced subjects. Across these juxtaposed parts, I argue that the unfolding of space and time responds to the enigmatic, irreducible message of the unconscious in the real. Spacetimeunconscious arrives as the ambassador of an unknown knowledge remembered for – or in the place of – a forgetful substance: water, dreamer, or electron. In an echo of the analytic method, I use montage to create generative connections, discontinuities, and instabilities between events, poetry, literature, and film, in the interstices of which the spacetimeunconscious may make an appearance.
Poster 369: Analysis of National Hockey League Player Performance After Concussion and Financial Costs Associated with Implementation of an Updated Concussion Protocol: A Retrospective Comparative Study
Authors: Castle Joshua , Wolternik Trevor , Sprys-Tellner Thomas , Haan Jager , Gasparro Matthew , Lynch Thomas , Gaudiani Michael
Published: August 2023

Objectives:

Background: An updated National Hockey League (NHL) concussion protocol (NHLCP) was established in the 2016–2017 season to mitigate the negative outcomes of sport-related concussions. However, few studies on the effects of implementing the NHLCP have been performed.

Purpose:

To define concussion incidence and investigate differences in NHL player performance after a concussion during periods before and after implementation of the NHLCP and to assess the financial impact on NHL teams associated with NHLCP implementation. We hypothesized that concussion incidence would increase and player performance would remain the same after NHLCP implementation.

Methods:

A retrospective review of NHL players who sustained a concussion before (2000–2001 to 2015–2016 seasons) and after (2016–2017 to 2020–2021 seasons) implementation of the NHLCP (pre- NHLCP and post-NHLCP groups). For each group, multiple performance metrics 30 days, 1 season, and 3 seasons before and after concussion were compared for both groups. Return to play, total concussion cost, and association of return to play with cost were investigated with regression analysis.

Results:

For both groups, no significant differences in standard performance were observed during the 30-day and 1-season time periods before and after concussion. Mean return to play was significantly higher in the pre-NHLCP than in the post-NHLCP group (20.1 vs 15.7 days; P=0.022). Mean adjusted player salary was not different between groups, but mean adjusted replacement player salary was significantly higher in the post-NHLCP group ($744,505 vs $896,942; P= 0.032). Mean cost of time missed did not differ between groups. Mean return to play time significantly decreased over the entire study period 2000–2021 (R2=0.335, P=0.005), and mean return to play time was positively associated with cost (R2=0.215, P=0.030).

Conclusions:

Concussion incidence did not change after implementation of the updated NHLCP, but players had significantly less missed time from injury after protocol implementation. Changes in player performance 30 days and 1 year before and after concussion injury were not different before and after NHLCP implementation. [Table: see text][Table: see text]
Engaging the Entire Learner: Pathway Program Administrators’ Experiences of Providing Students with Research Experiences in Academic Medicine
Authors: Jung Sarah , Rosser Alexandra A , Alagoz Esra
Published: August 2023

Pathway programs designed to recruit and retain students from groups historically excluded from science and medicine have focused on providing academic and social support through programs that provide mentored experiences. However, for students in science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine (STEMM) majors, students from underrepresented groups tend to leave science-oriented programs at higher rates than students who are not underrepresented. As such, they are also underrepresented in medical fields, including academic medicine. Insight into how pathway programs contribute to addressing this issue is critical.

This study took a qualitative approach to investigating the experiences of pathway program administrators in academic medicine. Interviews were conducted with 12 program administrators working on 8 different programs throughout the country. Interviews were analyzed using directed content analysis while also allowing for the development of new themes based on the data.

The codes were organized into 6 overarching themes: mentorship, student engagement, determining program success, administrative time and program logistics, diversity and inclusion, and transition to virtual learning (due to COVID-19). Within each of these themes, program administrators described challenges along with some strategies programs employed to overcome these challenges.

The greatest overall challenge described was finding and sustaining relationships with faculty and nonfaculty mentors. To address this issue, many programs have worked within their institutions to incentivize this work. For student engagement, program administrators reported issues with tailoring to skill sets and interests of multiple students while still fostering community. Program administrators have also expanded definitions for determining program success. Program administration is a challenge, and more support staff or time to devote to these programs is often needed. Diversity challenges encompass recruiting faculty and students from groups underrepresented in STEMM and the logistics of getting all necessary accommodations for students. Finally, transition to virtual learning, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, brought about challenges and opportunities.
HOXA1 participates in VSMC-to-macrophage-like cell transformation via regulation of NF-κB p65 and KLF4: a potential mechanism of atherosclerosis pathogenesis
Authors: Han Zhiyang , Hu Haidi , Yin MingZhu , Lin Yu , Yan Yan , Han Peng , Liu Bing , Jing Bao
Published: August 2023

Background

Macrophage-like transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is a risk factor of atherosclerosis (AS) progression. Transcription factor homeobox A1 (HOXA1) plays functional roles in differentiation and development. This study aims to explore the role of HOXA1 in VSMC transformation, thereby providing evidence for the potential mechanism of AS pathogenesis.

Methods

High fat diet (HFD)-fed apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE−/−) mice were applied as an in vivo model to imitate AS, while 1-palmitoyl-2-(5-oxovaleroyl)-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POV-PC)-treated VSMCs were applied as an in vitro model. Recombinant adeno-associated-virus-1 (AAV-1) vectors that express short-hairpin RNAs targeting HOXA1, herein referred as AAV1-shHOXA1, were generated for the loss-of-function experiments throughout the study.

Results

In the aortic root of AS mice, lipid deposition was severer and HOXA1 expression was higher than the wide-type mice fed with normal diet or HFD. Silencing of HOXA1 inhibited the AS-induced weight gain, inflammatory response, serum and liver lipid metabolism disorder and atherosclerotic plaque formation. Besides, lesions from AS mice with HOXA1 knockdown showed less trans-differentiation of VSMCs to macrophage-like cells, along with a suppression of krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB RelA (p65) expression. In vitro experiments consistently confirmed that HOXA1 knockdown suppressed lipid accumulation, VSMC-to-macrophage phenotypic switch and inflammation in POV-PC-treated VSMCs. Mechanism investigations further illustrated that HOXA1 transcriptionally activated RelA and KLF4 to participate in the pathological manifestations of VSMCs.

Conclusions

HOXA1 participates in AS progression by regulating VSMCs plasticity via regulation of NF-κB p65 and KLF4. HOXA1 has the potential to be a biomarker or therapeutic target for AS.
Clinical plasma cells-related genes to aid therapy in colon cancer
Authors: Zhang Qi , Feng Xiao , Zhang Mingming , Sun Wenjing , Zhai Yuqing , Qing Shuangshuang , Liu Ying , Zhao Haoran , Sun Jing , Zhang Yi , Ma Chaoqun
Published: August 2023

The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of colon cancer (CC) has been associated with extensive immune cell infiltration (IMI). Increasing evidence demonstrated that plasma cells (PC) have an extremely important role in advance of antitumor immunity. Nonetheless, there is a lack of comprehensive analyses of PC infiltration in clinical prognosis and immunotherapy in CC. This study systematically addressed the gene expression model and clinical information of CC patients. Clinical samples were obtained from the TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) databases. Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), GSVA, and the MAlignant Tumors using Expression data (ESTIMATE) algorithm were employed to research the potential mechanism and pathways. Immunophenoscore (IPS) was obtained to evaluate the immunotherapeutic significance of risk score. Half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of chemotherapeutic medicine was predicted by employing the pRRophetic algorithm. A total of 513 CC samples (including 472 tumor samples and 41 normal samples) were collected from the TCGA-GDC database. Significant black modules and 313 candidate genes were considered PC-related genes by accessing WGCNA. Five pivotal genes were established through multiple analyses, which revealed excellent prognostic. The underlying correlation between risk score with tumor mutation burden (TMB) was further explored. In addition, the risk score was obviously correlated with various tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Also, risk CC samples showed various signaling pathways activity and different pivotal sensitivities to administering chemotherapy. Finally, the biological roles of the CD177 gene were uncovered in CC.
Salidroside regulates tumor microenvironment of non-small cell lung cancer via Hsp70/Stub1/Foxp3 pathway in Tregs
Authors: Wen Zexin , Liu Tong , Zhang Yanli , Yue Qiujuan , Meng Hang , He Yijie , Yang Yi , Li Minghao , Zheng Jianwen , Lin Wei
Published: August 2023

Background

The treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is challenging due to immune tolerance and evasion. Salidroside (SAL) is an extract in traditional Chinese medicine and has a potential antitumor effect. However, the mechanism of SAL in regulating the immunological microenvironment of NSCLC is yet to be clarified.

Methods

The mouse model with Lewis lung cancer cell line (3LL) in C57BL/6 mice was established. And then, the percentage of tumor-infiltrating T cell subsets including Treg was detected in tumor-bearing mice with or without SAL treatment. In vitro, the effect of SAL on the expression of IL-10, Foxp3 and Stub1 and the function of Treg were detected by flow cytometry. Network pharmacology prediction and molecular docking software were used to predict the target of SAL and intermolecular interaction. Furthermore, the effect of SAL on the expression of Hsp70 and the co-localization of Stub1-Foxp3 in Treg was confirmed by flow cytometry and confocal laser microscopy. Finally, Hsp70 inhibitor was used to verify the above molecular expression.

Results

We discovered that SAL treatment inhibits the growth of tumor cells by decreasing the percentage of tumor-infiltrated CD4+Foxp3+T cells. SAL treatment downregulates the expression of Foxp3 in Tregs, but increases the expression of Stub1, an E3 ubiquitination ligase upstream of Foxp3, and the expression of Hsp70. Inhibiting the expression of Hsp70 reverses the inhibition of SAL on Foxp3 and disrupts the colocalization of Stub1 and Foxp3 in the nucleus of Tregs.

Conclusions

SAL inhibits tumor growth by regulating the Hsp70/stub1/Foxp3 pathway in Treg to suppress the function of Treg. It is a new mechanism of SAL for antitumor therapy.
Impact of virtual group-based acceptance and commitment therapy on social adjustment and work-family conflict among intern nurses: a randomized control trial
Authors: El-Ashry Ayman Mohamed , Elhay Eman Sameh Abd , Taha Samah Mohamed , Salem El Saied Abd El Hamid El Sayed , El-Sayed Mona Metwally
Published: August 2023

Background

An action-oriented approach such as acceptance and commitment therapy may help reduce the fusion of conflicting ideas, empower new intern nurses to act according to their values, and maximize their psychological flexibility.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of a virtual group-based acceptance and commitment therapy intervention on intern nurses’ social adjustment and work-family conflict.

Design

A parallel, single-blind randomized control trial on intern nurses (n = 70) was randomly allocated to either a six-session online acceptance or commitment therapy intervention (n = 35) or a waiting list control group (n = 35), with each session lasting 90 min.

Measures

The work-related acceptance and action questionnaire, the social adjustment scale-self report, and the work-family conflict scale before, after, and one month after the intervention.

Results

The psychological flexibility mean score of the study group was significantly higher than that of the control group (43.11 vs. 34.15, p < .001) immediately after the intervention, and this effect was sustained one month after the intervention (41.88 vs. 33.21, p < .001) with a more significant effect size (F = 128.457, p < .001, η2 = 0.791). The social adjustment mean score of the study group had significantly improved in all four subscales, with statistically significant differences (p < .001). One month after the intervention, the study group had significantly higher scores than the control group in total score, with statistically significant differences (p < .001) and large effect sizes (η2 = 0.932). Work-family conflict mean score of the study group was decreased immediately after the intervention, with statistically significant differences (p < .001). One month after the intervention, the study group had significantly lower scores than the control group in all three subscales of the WFCS, with statistically significant differences (p < .001) and large effect sizes (η2 = 0.943).

Conclusion

Our findings proved that the virtual group-based ACT intervention effectively improved psychological flexibility and social adjustment, reducing work-family conflict among intern nurses. These findings suggest that the virtual group-based ACT intervention can be a practical approach to improving intern nurses’ mental health and well-being, which could affect their job performance and overall quality of life.

Trial registration

The study was registered retrospectively as a randomized clinical trial on 10/2/2023, reference number; NCT05721339.
Cancer awareness in Australian adolescents
Authors: McDonald F. E. J. , Skrabal Ross X. , Hubbard G. , Konings S. , Jeitani A.
Published: August 2023

Background

Over one-third of cancer cases are attributable to modifiable risk factors. Because health-related behaviors are often established at adolescence, it is important that adolescents understand the risks and lifestyle decisions that may reduce their chances of developing cancer. This study aims to identify the levels of cancer awareness of adolescents in Australia.

Methods

Paper questionnaires were used to collect information about baseline levels of cancer awareness. These questionnaires included socio-demographic questions and the Cancer Awareness Measure (CAM) with slight modifications to ensure their suitability for the Australian adolescent population. Students aged 11 to 19 years were recruited from 13 Australian high schools between 2016 and 2019.

Results

A total of 766 adolescents (58% female, mean age = 14.5 years) completed the questionnaires. Adolescents’ cancer awareness was low. Adolescents who knew someone with cancer recognized significantly more cancer risk factors and cancer warning signs than those who did not know someone with cancer (t (756) = 2.35, p = .019; t (747) = 5.57, p = .001). Those from high Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage (ICSEA) schools significantly recognized more cancer risk factors than those from low ICSEA schools (t (764) = 2.42, p = .016). Females recognized significantly more warning signs than males (t (583) = 3.11, p = .002) and students from senior high school grades recognized more warning signs than those from junior grades (t (754) = 2.24, p = .02). Most adolescents (78%) were aware of skin cancer as one of the most common cancers in Australia, however half or less were aware of other common cancers. Although most adolescents would seek medical help in the presence of possible cancer symptoms as soon as possible, approximately 20% of them would not see a doctor promptly. Emotional barriers were the most common reasons to delay seeing a doctor (56%), for example “being worried about hearing bad news” (27%).

Conclusions

Australian adolescents show poor awareness of cancer risk factors and cancer warning signs. A number of demographic and experience factors were found to be related to lower cancer awareness. Education is essential to raise cancer awareness, promote healthy lifestyles from adolescence and avoid a preventable cancer diagnosis.
Evidence for an association of serum microanalytes and myofascial pain syndrome
Authors: Pradeep Aishwarya , Birerdinc Aybike , Branigan Travis , Phan Vy , Morris Hailey , Shah Jay , DeStefano Secili , Sikdar Siddhartha , Srbely John , Kumbhare Dinesh , Stecco Antonio , Paik James , Gerber Lynn H.
Published: August 2023

Background

Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a common pain disorder. Diagnostic criteria include physical findings which are often unreliable or not universally accepted. A precise biosignature may improve diagnosis and treatment effectiveness. The purpose of this study was to assess whether microanalytic assays significantly correlate with characteristic clinical findings in people with MPS.

Methods

This descriptive, prospective study included 38 participants (25 women) with greater than 3 months of myofascial pain in the upper trapezius. Assessments were performed at a university laboratory. The main outcome measures were the Beighton Index, shoulder range of motion, strength asymmetries and microanalytes: DHEA, Kynurenine, VEGF, interleukins (IL-1b, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-7, IL-8, IL-13), growth factors (IGF-1, IGF2, G-CSF, GM-CSF), MCP-1, MIP-1b, BDNF, Dopamine, Noradrenaline, NPY, and Acetylcholine. Mann–Whitney test and Spearman’s multivariate correlation were applied for all variables. The Spearman’s analysis results were used to generate a standard correlation matrix and heat map matrix.

Results

Mean age of participants was 32 years (20–61). Eight (21%) had widespread pain (Widespread Pain Index ≥ 7). Thirteen (34%) had MPS for 1–3 years, 14 (37%) 3–10 years, and 11 (29%) for > 10 years. The following showed strong correlations: IL1b,2,4,5,7,8; GM-CSF and IL 2,4,5,7; between DHEA and BDNF and between BDNF and Kynurenine, NPY and acetylcholine. The heat map analysis demonstrated strong correlations between the Beighton Index and IL 5,7, GM-CSF, DHEA. Asymmetries of shoulder and cervical spine motion and strength associated with select microanalytes.

Conclusion

Cytokine levels significantly correlate with selected clinical assessments. This indirectly suggests possible biological relevance for understanding MPS. Correlations among some cytokine clusters; and DHEA, BDNF kynurenine, NPY, and acetylcholine may act together in MPS. These findings should be further investigated for confirmation that link these microanalytes with select clinical findings in people with MPS.
Impact of para aortic lymph node removal on survival following resection for pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sillesen Martin , Hansen Carsten Palnæs , Burgdorf Stefan Kobbelgaard , Dencker Emilie Even , Krohn Paul Suno , Gisela Kollbeck Sophie Louise , Stender Mogens Tornby , Storkholm Jan Henrik
Published: August 2023

Introduction

For PDAC patients undergoing resection, it remains unclear whether metastases to the paraaortic lymph nodes (PALN+) have any prognostic significance and whether metastases should lead to the operation not being carried out. Our hypothesis is that PALN + status would be associated with short overall survival (OS) compared with PALN-, but longer OS compared with patients undergoing surgical exploration only (EXP).

Methods

Patients with registered PALN removal from the nationwide Danish Pancreatic Cancer Database (DPCD) from May 1st 2011 to December 31st 2020 were assessed. A cohort of PDAC patients who only had explorative laparotomy due to non-resectable tumors were also included (EXP group). Survival analysis between groups were performed with cox-regression in a multivariate approach including relevant confounders.

Results

A total of 1758 patients were assessed, including 424 (24.1%) patients who only underwent explorative surgery leaving 1334 (75.8%) patients for further assessment. Of these 158 patients (11.8%) had selective PALN removal, of whom 19 patients (12.0%) had PALN+. Survival analyses indicated that explorative surgery was associated with significantly shorter OS compared with resection and PALN + status (Hazard Ratio 2.36, p < 0.001). No difference between PALN + and PALN- status could be demonstrated in resected patients after controlling for confounders.

Conclusion

PALN + status in patients undergoing resection offer improved survival compared with EXP. PALN + should not be seen as a contraindication for curative intended resection.