bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tubular Bioartificial Organs: From Physiological Requirements to Fabrication Processes and Resulting Properties. A Critical Review
Authors: Pien Nele , Palladino Sara , Copes Francesco , Candiani Gabriele , Dubruel Peter , Van Vlierberghe Sandra , Mantovani Diego
Published: August 2021

In this featured review manuscript, the aim is to present a critical survey on the processes available for fabricating bioartificial organs (BAOs). The focus will be on hollow tubular organs for the transport of anabolites and catabolites, i.e., vessels, trachea, esophagus, ureter and urethra, and intestine. First, the anatomic hierarchical structures of tubular organs, as well as their principal physiological functions, will be presented, as this constitutes the mandatory requirements for effectively designing and developing physiologically relevant BAOs. Second, 3D bioprinting, solution electrospinning, and melt electrowriting will be introduced, together with their capacity to match the requirements imposed by designing scaffolds compatible with the anatomical and physiologically relevant environment. Finally, the intrinsic correlation between processes, materials, and cells will be critically discussed, and directives defining the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities offered by each process will be proposed for assisting bioengineers in the selection of the appropriate process for the target BAO and its specific required functions.
Lp(a)‐Associated Oxidized Phospholipids in Healthy Black and White Participants in Relation to apo(a) Size, Age, and Family Structure
Authors: Berglund Lars , Kim Kyoungmi , Zhang Wei , Prakash Nishant , Truax Kevin , Anuurad Erdembileg , Enkhmaa Byambaa
Published: August 2021

Background

Lp(a) (lipoprotein(a)) is the major lipoprotein carrier of oxidized phospholipids (OxPL) and this function mediates Lp(a) atherogenicity. However, the relationship between OxPL, Lp(a), and genetic and biological characteristics remains poorly understood. We assessed the relationship between Lp(a)‐bound OxPL, apolipoprotein(a) (apo(a)) size, age, and family structure in 2 racial groups.

Methods and Results

Healthy Black and White families were recruited from the general population (age: 6–74 years, n=267). OxPL and Lp(a) levels were assayed enzymatically; apo(a) isoform,
LPA
allele sizes, and allele‐specific Lp(a) levels were determined. Lp(a)‐OxPL levels did not differ significantly by racial and age groups. Lp(a)‐OxPL levels were associated with total plasma Lp(a) in all participants and in race‐specific analyses. Further, OxPL levels were significantly associated with allele‐specific Lp(a) levels carried by the smaller apo(a) size in all participants (β=0.33,
P
=0.0003) as well as separately for Black (β=0.50,
P
=0.0032) and White (β=0.26,
P
=0.0181) participants. A significant association of OxPL with allele‐specific Lp(a) levels for larger apo(a) sizes was seen only in Black participants (β=0.53,
P
=0.0076). In this group, Lp(a)‐OxPL levels were also heritable (h
2
=0.29,
P
=0.0235), resulting in a significant interracial difference in heritability between Black and White people (
P
=0.0352).

Conclusions

Lp(a)‐OxPL levels were associated with allele‐specific Lp(a) level carried on smaller apo(a) sizes and among Black participants also for larger apo(a) sizes. The heritability estimates for Lp(a)‐bound OxPL differed by race.
Racial Disparities in Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes After a Myocardial Infarction in Young or Middle‐Aged Patients
Authors: Garcia Mariana , Almuwaqqat Zakaria , Moazzami Kasra , Young An , Lima Bruno B. , Sullivan Samaah , Kaseer Belal , Lewis Tené T. , Hammadah Muhammad , Levantsevych Oleksiy , Elon Lisa , Bremner J. Douglas , Raggi Paolo , Shah Amit J. , Quyyumi Arshed A. , Vaccarino Viola
Published: August 2021

Background

Black patients tend to develop coronary artery disease at a younger age than other groups. Previous data on racial disparities in outcomes of myocardial infarction (MI) have been inconsistent and limited to older populations. Our objective was to investigate racial differences in the outcome of MI among young and middle‐aged patients and the role played by socioeconomic, psychosocial, and clinical differences.

Methods and Results

We studied 313 participants (65% non‐Hispanic Black) <61 years old hospitalized for confirmed type 1 MI at Emory‐affiliated hospitals and followed them for 5 years. We used Cox proportional‐hazard models to estimate the association of race with a composite end point of recurrent MI, stroke, heart failure, or cardiovascular death after adjusting for demographic, socioeceonomic status, psychological, and clinical risk factors. The mean age was 50 years, and 50% were women. Compared with non‐Black patients, Black patients had lower socioeconomic status and more clinical and psychosocial risk factors but less angiographic coronary artery disease. The 5‐year incidence of cardiovascular events was higher in Black (35%) compared to non‐Black patients (19%): hazard ratio (HR) 2.1, 95% CI, 1.3 to 3.6. Adjustment for socioeconomic status weakened the association (HR 1.3, 95% CI, 0.8–2.4) more than adjustment for clinical and psychological risk factors. A lower income explained 46% of the race‐related disparity in outcome.

Conclusions

Among young and middle‐aged adult survivors of an MI, Black patients have a 2‐fold higher risk of adverse outcomes, which is largely driven by upstream socioeconomic factors rather than downstream psychological and clinical risk factors.
Christian Mission in the Contemporary World: A Dialogue between 1 Peter and Postcolonial Critics
Authors: Hall Josiah D.
Published: August 2021

The modern missions movement’s relationship with colonialism has brought to light many problems with contemporary conceptions of Christian mission. For many, the Bible often becomes, in the words of Tinyiko Sam Maluleke, the “colonial text par excellence.” This paper seeks to highlight – in dialogue with postcolonial critics – how 1 Pet 2:9–17 can instead provide the foundation for a theology of mission relevant to the contemporary context. First Peter distinctively anchors Christian mission in one’s Christian identity and clarifies how that identity transforms one’s relationship to one’s culture as well as to power structures in that culture. In doing so, 1 Peter eschews a triumphalist attitude and instead embodies values shared by theorists of postcolonial mission, namely narrativity, mutuality, and humility.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan: Two Theological Readings in the Victorian Church of England
Authors: Hartin Cole William
Published: August 2021

Taking seriously the reality that theological interpretation of Scripture is not a monolithic enterprise but rather a varied discussion, this paper outlines two historical contributions to the theological reading of Scripture in the Victorian Church of England. By examining the way Richard Chenevix Trench and John Keble interpret the parable of the good Samaritan, this essay shows that though both figures interpret Scripture in order to understand what it says about God, they diverge in their approach over questions of providence and ecclesial authority. The paper argues that for Trench, providence expands the scope of Scripture’s meaning but for Keble it leads to specific interpretive outcomes. Essentially, while Trench sees Scripture to be the product of divine providence, Keble sees providence to have shaped the consensus of the early Church.
The Lord of Angel Armies and the Centurion of Capernaum in Matthew 8:5–13
Authors: Wenkel David H.
Published: August 2021

This study of Jesus’ healing of the centurion’s servant (Matthew 8:5–13) draws attention to some neglected Christological details. This study offers a fresh explanation of how Matthew uses ambiguity and clarity about who Jesus is in various levels of narrative context. Specifically, Matthew’s characterization of the centurion uses the ambiguous title of ‘Lord’ alongside clear actions of faith to reveal Jesus’ identity. This study concludes that Jesus participates in the identity of Yahweh, who has absolute and divine power to command his army of angels to heal people and remove demons, even without his presence.
Ancient Musical Writings as Persuasive Texts
Authors: Raffa Massimo
Published: August 2021

This contribution is meant to shed light on how ancient Greek music theorists structure argumentations and address their readership in order to be understandable, effective and persuasive. On the one hand, some of the most important treatises, e.g. Ptolemy’s Harmonics (with Porphyry’s Commentary) and what remains of Archytas’ and Theophrastus’ works, are taken as case studies; on the other hand, the paper deals with some argumentative patterns recurring in harmonics demonstrations, especially with reference to the usage of everyday life experience as evidence supporting acoustic and harmonic theories.
The Teacher of Dance
Authors: Robinson Clifford A.
Published: August 2021

The De musica of Aristides Quintilianus, an author and music theorist unknown apart from this treatise, presents several tantalizing claims about the relationship between dance and the three sciences of mousikē: i.e., harmonics, metrics, and, most importantly, rhythmics. Elliptical as his remarks on dance may be, if they are taken together with his treatment of the musical phenomena as essentially governed by systēmata, both a technical discourse around dance can be elicited from the evidence as well as the philosophical and aesthetic reasons why such a discourse was so modestly developed in comparison with the three sciences attending to musical phenomena. I conclude that the theorist considers the dancing body to be only minimally conformable to the systēmata imposed on bodies by the Platonic demiurge’s art, almost as a leimma unassimilable to the perfections of musical order, and yet somehow orderly enough to be treated according to their proportional order.
Epigrafia musicale nel mondo romano
Authors: Zangrando Alessia
Published: August 2021

Some representative issues were revealed in a few emblematic case studies regarding musical data in Latin epigraphy. Some such issues are a complex relationship between texts and images, and the symbolic meaning of some specific musical depictions. Therefore, in order to add new information to what we know about the ancient Roman soundscape, it is necessary to tackle this question by taking an intercultural approach.
The Impact of covid-19 Measures on the Rule of Law in the Western Balkans and the Increase of Authoritarianism
Authors: Hoxhaj Andi , Zhilla Fabian
Published: August 2021

This article offers a comparative analysis of the covid-19 legal measures and model of governance adopted in the Western Balkans countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Kosovo) and its impact on the state of the rule of law, and ability of parliament and civil society to scrutinise government decisions. The article assesses the governments’ approaches to introducing and enforcing covid-19 legal measures, and shows examples of how covid-19 has exposed more openly the weaknesses in the existing system of checks and balances in the Western Balkans. The article offers new insights into how covid-19 presented a new opportunity for leaders in the Western Balkans to implement further their authoritarian model of governance in undermining the rule of law. This article offers suggestions on how the EU could respond, through its accession conditionality instruments and civil society, to redirect this trend towards more state capture.
The Former Secretary General of the Council of Europe Confronting Russia’s Annexation of the Crimea and Turkey’s State of Emergency
Authors: Demir-Gürsel Esra
Published: August 2021

This article investigates the influence of the former Secretary General of the Council of Europe (CoE), Thorbjørn Jagland, on the responses of other CoE bodies to the systemic breaches of the core principles of the CoE in the context of two critical events: Russia’s annexation of the Crimea in 2014 and Turkey’s state of emergency that followed the attempted coup in 2016. Specifically, it examines the influence of the Secretary General’s policy preferences on the Parliamentary Assembly of the CoE and the European Court of Human Rights. The article argues that Jagland’s policy preferences in the context of these two events prioritised political expediency to the detriment of the CoE’s normative mission. The article finds that the Secretary General played a crucial role in facilitating the reversal of the sanctions imposed by the Assembly against Russia and the postponement of the processing of Turkey’s post-coup cases by the Court.
A review of the Palearctic Ptycerata Ely, 1910 (= Caulastrocecis Chrétien, 1931, syn. nov.) based on morphology (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae)
Authors: BIDZILYA OLEKSIY , KARSHOLT OLE
Published: August 2021

The genus Ptycerata Ely, 1910 is recognised as a senior synonym of Caulastrocecis Chrétien, 1931, syn. nov., and revised in the Palearctic region. Nine species are recognised as valid. Three new species are described: Ptycerata sumpichi sp. nov. (Italy), Ptycerata nupponeni sp. nov. (Russia: Altai) and Ptycerata transbaikalica sp. nov. (Russia: Zabaikalskiy kray). Three new synonyms are established: Aristotelia salinatrix Meyrick, 1926, syn. nov. of Ptycerata furfurella (Staudinger, 1871) comb. nov., Xystophora tripunctella Snellen, 1884 syn. nov. of Ptycerata pudicella (Mann, 1861) comb. nov.; Aristotelia condensata Meyrick, 1928 syn. nov. of Ptycerata interstratella (Christoph, 1872) comb. nov. Further new generic combinations are proposed: Ptycerata gypsella (Constant, 1893) comb. nov., Ptycerata cryptoxena (Gozmány, 1952) comb. nov., Ptycerata perexigella (Junnilainen, 2010) comb. nov. In order to stabilise nomenclature lectotypes are designated for Ptycerata busckella Ely, 1910, Gelechia furfurella Staudinger, 1871, Hypsolophus pudicellus Mann, 1861, Aristotelia condensata Meyrick, 1928 and Aristotelia interstratella Christoph, 1872. The female genitalia of P. interstratella are described for the first time. Ptycerata pudicella is recorded as new for Cyprus and Mongolia, and P. interstratella as new from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tadzhikistan and Iran. Ptycerata pudicellus is removed from the list of Lepidoptera found in Spain.
Some free-living laelapid mites (Acari: Mesostigmata: Laelapidae) from Tristan da Cunha and Nightingale Islands, with description of a new species of Gaeolaelaps Evans & Till (Acari: Laelapidae) and the first afrotropical record of the genus Nidilaelaps Shaw
Authors: JOHARCHI OMID , UECKERMANN EDWARD A. , DÖKER ISMAIL , KHAUSTOV VLADIMIR A. , HÄNEL CHRISTINE
Published: August 2021

This paper reports on four species of free-living mites of the family Laelapidae from Tristan da Cunha and Nightingale Islands: Cosmolaelaps claviger (Berlese), Gaeolaelaps aculeifer (Canestrini), G. furcatus sp. nov., and Nidilaelaps annectans (Womersley). The new species has the unique character states of the paradactyli on pretarsi II–IV being very elongated and the pulvillar lobe well developed in shape of a fork on ambulacra II–IV. The genus Nidilaelaps Shaw is here reported for the first time from Afrotropical realm.
Another New Bent-toed Gecko, genus Cyrtodactylus Gray 1837 (Squamata: Gekkonidae), from Borneo
Authors: RIYANTO AWAL , FAUZI MUHAMMAD ALIF , SIDIK IRVAN , MUMPUNI  , IRHAM MOHAMMAD , KURNIAWAN NIA , OTA HIDETOSHI , OKAMOTO TAKU , HIKIDA TSUTOMU , GRISMER L. LEE
Published: August 2021

To reveal the diversity of Indonesian bent-toed geckos, we pay attention to Kalimantan (Borneo)—an island which has received less attention than other Indonesian islands such as Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, the Moluccas, and the Lesser Sunda archipelagos. About 30 years after Hikida (1990) described three new Cyrtodactylus from Borneo, four more species were described, namely C. limajalur and C. muluensis in 2019, and C. hantu and C. miriensis in 2021, all by Davis et al. Through examination of the collection at MZB and three addition specimens collected from Tawau, we found several undescribed species, one of which we describe here. This new species is easily differentiated from all other congeners by the combination of the following characters: maximum SVL of at least 65.8 mm; no tubercles on dorsal surface of upper arm; tubercles present in the ventrolateral body folds; 28–30 paravertebral tubercles; 17–20 longitudinal dorsal tubercle rows; 39–46 ventral scale rows at midbody; 17–19 subdigital lamellae on fourth toe; precloacal pit with 5–7 pores in males arranged in a wide Λ-shape but absent in females; no enlarged transverse median subcaudals; paired dark brown semilunar-shaped markings on the upper nape. Further study is needed to reveal its molecular phylogenetic position and biogeographical history.
MicroRNA-1254 Suppresses Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition by Upregulating c-Cellular Myelocytomatosis Oncogene (c-Myc) and Alleviates Drug Resistance in Lung Cancer
Authors: Shi Liu , Xiong Yu , Hu Xiaoyan
Published: August 2021

Drug resistance is a huge challenge during the management of diseases. MicroRNA (miRNA) dys-regulation is known to contribute to tumor progression. Herein we aimed to explore miR-1254’s role in drug resistance in lung cancer. In the present study, we used Pabolizumab to treat drug-resistant and non-drug resistant lung cancer cells followed by analysis of miR-1254 expression by RT-qPCR, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) related protein and c-Myc expression by western blot, E-cadherin and N-cadherin level by immunofluorescence. Additionally, mouse model of lung cancer was treated with miR-1254 mimic and/or Pabolizumab to assess miR-1254’s role in lung cancerin vivo. Drug-resistant lung cancer cells exhibited significantly increased viability upon treatment with Pabolizumab with decreased miR-1254 expression. Besides, Pabolizumab upregulated E-caderin and downregulated N-cadherin. Importantly, miR-1254 bound to c-Myc in cancer cells. In the presence of miR-1254 mimic or siRNA (si)-c-Myc, the chemosensitivity of lung cancer cells was increased whereas miR-1254 inhibitor augmented cell resistance to Pabolizumab. Furthermore, the chemosensitivity induced by c-Myc could be depleted by miR-1254 inhibitor. Combined treatment of miR-1254 mimic and Pabolizumab significantly decreased tumor weight and volume, and reduced c-Myc level. In conclusion, miR-1254 might suppress EMT by inhibiting c-Myc expression in lung cancer and decrease drug resistance.
Study on Chlorogenic Acid Inhibiting the Proliferation and Invasion of Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes in Rheumatoid Arthritis Model
Authors: Zhang Mingjuan , Deng Huaming , Yi Xiajun , Xie Siying , Zhan Qingying
Published: August 2021

This paper explored Chlorogenic acid regulating the biological behavior of RA FLSs and studied the functional role of microRNAs in it. In vivo experiment: Female DBA/1 J mice were used for model establishment and grouping. HE staining was employed. The damage of ankle cartilage
was analyzed in each group of mice. The levels of serum cytokines TNF-α and IL-β were measured by ELISA. In vitro experiment: The cells were counterstained with Hoechst 33342, Transwell was used to detect cell invasion. Western blotting was used to detect the
expression of Akt protein. The Akt expression plasmid and miR-23b mimic were co-transfected into RA FLSs, and the luciferase activity was measured using a dual-luciferase detection system. In vivo experiments found that Chlorogenic acid can significantly reduce arthritis index and inhibit
TNF-α and IL-β levels. In vitro experiments found that TNF-α-induced proliferation of RA FLSs was significantly inhibited by Chlorogenic acid. Transwell invasion test showed that TNF-α-induced cell invasion was attenuated at the presence
of Chlorogenic acid, which significantly inhibited Akt protein expression and phosphorylation. The expression of miR-23b in Chlorogenic acid-treated RA-FLSs increased, and silencing miR-23b enhanced the inhibitory effect of RA FLSs on Chlorogenic acid induction. Chlorogenic acid has potential
anti-rheumatoid arthritis activity. Its inhibition of RA FLSs proliferation and invasion is related to the induction of miR-23b and the down-regulation of Akt expression.
Effects of Bone Marrow Stromal Cells (BMSCs) on Behavior, Infarct Size and HIF-1αExpression in Stroke Rats
Authors: Guo Yingli , Meng Yanbin , Li Jun , Wang Hongsheng , Guo Junhong
Published: August 2021

This study aims to assess BMSCs’ effect on the behavior, infarct size and HIF-1αexpression in stroke rats. Rats were separated into sham group, CVA group and BMSCs group with 10 rats in each group followed by analysis of neuroethology scores, brain tissue pathology and infarct size, and HIF-1αlevel in brain tissues. No difference of neurological scores was found between CVA group and BMSCs group after 3 hours (P> 0.05). After BMSCs transplantation, the nerve score was significantly reduced (P< 0.05) and cognitive function was significantly improved compared to CVA group. Compared with sham rats, CAV rats had a larger area of infarction and the infarcted tissue cells showed degeneration or necrosis with reduced cell number and obvious edema, which were all improved in BMSCs group. CVA group showed a larger area of infarct tissue (P< 0.05), which was reduced in BMSCs group (P< 0.05). Compared with sham group, CVA group showed significantly upregulated HIF-1αlevel (P< 0.05) which was reduced in BMSCs group (P< 0.05). BMSCs has a certain repair effect on the ethology of stroke rats possibly via inhibition of HIF-1αlevel in cerebral infarction and brain tissue.
The Protective Effect of Genipin on Oxidative Stress Under Hypoxia and Hyperglycemia in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells
Authors: Wu Daifeng , Wang Yulin , Wu Yueyang , Ding Shujuan
Published: August 2021

We aimed to explore the protective effect of genipin on retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells under hypoxia and hyperglycemia. RPE cells were cultured under hyperglycemia and hypoxia mimicking agent DFX. The cells were then exposed to genipin (10–50 μM), genipin + phospha-tidylinositol
(3,4,5) trisphosphates (PIP3) as phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, and genipin+ PI3K agonist, followed by CCK-8 assay to detect the cell viability. Western blot determined PI3K/protein kinase B (AKT) pathway, and apoptosis- and anti-apoptosis-related proteins levels. MitoSOXTM Red
kit was conducted to analyze reactive oxygen species (ROS) content. Finally, confocal immunofluorescence staining assessed nuclear translocation of Nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (Nrf2). Hyperglycemia and hypoxia treatment induced injury in RPE cells, with nuclear translocation
of Nrf2 and ROS production. Importantly, administration of genipin alleviated the injury, up-regulated Bcl-2 expression, inhibited caspase-3 activity and nuclear translocation of Nrf2, and down-regulated the level of Bax and ROS. In addition, genipin pretreatment obviously increased PI3K and
Akt phosphorylation and promoted cell proliferation and viability. On the contrary, PI3K inhibitor inactivated PI3K/AKT and decreased cell viability while PI3K agonist showed the opposite effect. Genipin prevented oxidative stress and apoptosis induced by hyperglycemia and hypoxia through
PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
microRNA-206 Regulates Pancreatic-β-Cell Function via Targeting Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1
Authors: Li Zhen , Qian Zengkun , Zhou Jingjing , Zhu Wenjuan , Mao Zheng , Cui Fan
Published: August 2021

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM), a common metabolic disease, is featured with chronic hyperglycemia and dysfunction of pancreatic β-cells. Various evidences suggested that microRNAs (miR-NAs) were tightly related to the occurrence of DM and can be regulated in
pancreatic-β-cells. However, whether or not microRNA-206 (miR-206) affects the development of DM and the specific mechanisms remains elusive. We designed this study to clarify the function and associated potential mechanism of miR-206 in pancreatic β-cells via the insulin-like
growth factor 1 reporter (IGF1R)/phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PI3 K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway, which may provide novel diagnostic or therapies for DM. Methods: In this research, the levels of miR-206 and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) were assessed using quantitative
reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) and/or Western bolt assay. Bioinformatics and dual luciferase reporter assays were adopted to illustrate the relationship between miR-206 and IGF1. INS-1 cells were stimulated with stimulatory glucose (16.7 mM) or basal glucose (3.3 mM) for 1 h, and the
insulin content was examined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Besides, 3-(4,5)-dimethylthiahiazo (-z-y1)-3,5-di-phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry (FCM) analysis were conducted to determine the INS1 cell viability and apoptosis. Furthermore, the related proteins
in IGF1R/PI3 K/AKT pathway (IGF1R, p-AKT and AKT) were tested using Western blot assay, respectively. Results: Our data suggested that miR-206 level in the blood samples of DM patients was higher than that in healthy donors. IGF1 was identified as a direct target of miR-206. Moreover,
we found that miR-206 negatively regulated IGF1 expression in INS-1 cells. It was also confirmed that miR-206 inhibitor led to an increase of total insulin content, an increase of INS-1 cell viability and a decrease of cell apoptosis. Accordingly, miR-206 inhibitor significantly enhanced IGF1R
and p-AKT protein expression in INS-1 cells. All these findings were reversed by IGF1-siRNA co-transfection. Conclusion: Our observations clearly demonstrated that miR-206 could regulate the IGF1R/PI3K/AKT pathway by targeting IGF1, thereby regulating the cell viability of pancreatic
β cells and the ability of pancreatic β cells to secrete insulin.
Long Non-Coding RNA Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 14 Enhances Pancreatic-β-Cell Function by Sponging MicroRNA-206 and Thereby Upregulating Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1
Authors: Mao Zheng , Li Zhen , Qian Zengkun , Zhou Jingjing , Li Xiaoqin , Cui Fan
Published: August 2021

Diabetes mellitus (DM) characterised by pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and insulin resistance is already prevalent worldwide, and the complications of DM increased the mortality of diabetic patients. More and more reports showed that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) plays key
roles in DM, and in this study we explored the effect of long non-coding RNA SNHG14 (SNHG14) in DM. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to analyze the expression of SNHG14 and microRNA (miR)-206 in peripheral blood from 60 pairs of healthy and DM samples. Then the effect
of SNHG14 on the insulin secretion of pancreatic β-cells was investigated. Moreover, the effects of SNHG14 on the viability and apoptosis of pancreatic β-cells were determined by 3-(4, 5)-dimethylthiahiazo (-z-y1)-3, 5-di- phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT) assay and flow
cytometry (FCM) respectively using INS-1 cells transfected with SNHG14-plasmid and/or miR-206 mimic. Bioinformatics and Daul luciferase reporter assay were used to confirm the direct target of miR-206. Our data showed that SNHG14 level was decreased but miR-206 was increased significantly
in the peripheral blood of DM patients. Furthermore, over-expression of SNHG14 enhanced insulin secretion and cell viability but inhibited apoptosis of pancreatic β-cells, whereas, miR-206 over-expression reversed these effects. In addition, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF1)
was proved to be regulated by miR-206 negatively and over-expression of SNHG14 increased the expression of IGF1 and IGF1R in pancreatic β-cells. In conclusion, we found that SNHG14 was significantly down-regulated in DM patients, and SNHG14/miR-206/IGF1 may serve as a potential
candidate for the clinical target of DM.
Role and Mechanism of Exosome CircRNA Eukaryotic Translation Initiation Factor 4γ2 (EIF4G2) in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Mao Yifan , Zhang Liya , Li Yuan
Published: August 2021

Our work was to evaluate Exosome CircRNA EIF4G2 in cervical cancer development. Methods: Using Hela and Siha in our present study. Transfection vector, exosome cirEIF4G2, exosome si-NC or exosome si-circEIF4G2 in cells. Using RT-qPCR to measure circEIF4G2 gene expression in difference
cell groups. Evaluating cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and wound healing rate by MTT, flow cytometry, transwell and wound healing assay. The relative proteins, HPV16 E6 and HPV16 E7, were evaluated by WB assay. With Exosome CircRNA EIF4G2 transfection, Hela and Siha cells proliferation,
invasion cells number and wound healing rates were significantly increased and cells apoptosis were significantly depressed (P < 0.001, respectively) with HPV16 E6 and HPV16 E7 proteins expression were significantly up-regulation (P < 0.001, respectively). However, with
Exosome si-CircRNA EIF4G2 transfection, Hela and Siha cells proliferation, invasion cells number and wound healing rates were significantly depressed and cells apoptosis were significantly increased (P < 0.001, respectively) with HPV16 E6 and HPV16 E7 proteins expression were significantly
down-regulation (P < 0.001, respectively). Exosome CircRNA EIF4G2 as an oncology role in cervical cancer via regulation HPV16 E6/E7 up-regulation in vitro study.
Wnt Pathway Inhibitor Delays Fracture Healing by Targeting Ephrin B1 (EFNB1) in Osteoprogenitor Cells
Authors: Zhao Zexue , Wu Pengfei , Tian Jiwei , Yu Yifan
Published: August 2021

Our study assessed the role of Wnt signaling inhibitor (SM04690) in fracture healing and the underlying mechanism. Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were used to establish a fracture model which was then separated into SM04690 group which received SM04690 (50 mg/kg) by intraperitoneal injection
once a day for one week, and control group which received saline once a day. After rats were sacrificed, the fractured femurs were harvested to measure femoral strength by stress testing, bone density and volume by CT. Femurs were sliced for immunohistochemical staining. Mesenchymal stem cells
(MSCs), endothelial cells, osteoprogenitor cells and osteoblasts were detected by flow cytometer and EFNB1 expression was detected by immunoblotting and PCR. In addition, MSCs were treated with SM04690 (5 uM), followed by detection of EFNB1 expression. SM04690 treatment significantly inhibited
EFNB1 expression and reduced bone volume and callus volume as well as decreased ultimate load of bones. Immunohistochemical staining and flow cytometry analysis showed no difference of osteoclast numbers at the fracture site between two groups, but proportion of osteoclasts in the cartilage
tissue of SM04690 group was significantly decreased. In addition, the number of osteoblasts, osteoprogenitor cells and endothelial cells was significantly decreased after treatment. Under the conditions favoring osteogenic differentiation, the production of minerals by osteogenic cells was
significantly decreased along with upregulated TAZ phosphorylation and downregulated Osterix in SM04690 group. In conclusion, SM04690 delays fracture healing by inhibiting EpRunB1 in osteoprogenitor cells.
Impacts of Metformin on Local Ovarian Cell Tissue of Rats with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Intestinal Flora Under Aerobic Exercise
Authors: Yan Xiao
Published: August 2021

In order to explore the possible treatment mechanism of metformin on the local ovarian cell tissue of rats with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), 35 female clean sterile rats were selected as the research objects in this study, and randomly divided a PCOS model group (PCOS MG) (25 rats)
and a control group (CG) (10 rats). After the modelling was completed, 5 rats were randomly selected to evaluate the modelling effect. When the success rate was higher than 80%, the remaining model rats were divided into two groups randomly, namely the (PCOS MG) (10 rats) and the treatment
group (TG) (10 rats). Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was performed on ovarian tissue of the rat, and the ovarian tissue structure was observed under light microscope. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the distribution and expression levels of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α),
insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) on the ovaries of rats in each group. It was found by observing the vaginal smear under the microscope that the rats in the (PCOS MG) had lost the regular estrous cycle, suggesting that there was no ovulation.
The expression levels of TNF-α and CTGF in rats in the (PCOS MG) were greatly higher than those in the CG (P < 0.05); compared with the (PCOS MG), the expression levels of TNF-α and CTGF in the TG were decreased observably (P < 0.05). IGF-I was
mainly expressed in granulosa cells (GCs) and follicular membrane cells (FMCs) of the ovarian tissue. The expression level of IGF-I in ovarian GCs in rats in the (PCOS MG) was significantly higher than that in the CG (P < 0.05). The expression level of IGF-I in GCs in the TG was
lower significantly than that in the (PCOS MG) (P < 0.05). By comparing with rats in the CG, the rats in the (PCOS MG) had obviously decreased Actinobacteria and Betaproteobacteria in the intestinal tract, and the proportion of Firmicutes in the intestine was significantly increased;
the amount of butyric acid in the faeces of rats with aerobic exercise was obviously higher than that in the (PCOS MG), because exercise increased the proportion of intestinal butyric acid-producing bacteria. Conclusion: metformin combined with aerobic exercise can treat the PCOS by regulating
serum hormone levels and the expression levels of TNF-α, IGF-I, and CTGF.
Detailed dual-Doppler structure of Kelvin-Helmholtz waves from an airborne profiling radar over complex terrain. Part II: Evidence for precipitation enhancement from observations and modeling
Authors: Grasmick Coltin , Geerts Bart , Chu Xia , French Jeffrey R. , Rauber Robert M.
Published: August 2021

Kelvin-Helmholtz (KH) waves are a frequent source of turbulence in stratiform precipitation systems over mountainous terrain. KH waves introduce large eddies into otherwise laminar flow, with updrafts and downdrafts generating small-scale turbulence. When they occur in-cloud, such dynamics influence microphysical processes that impact precipitation growth and fallout. Part I of this paper used dual-Doppler, 2D wind and reflectivity measurements from an airborne cloud radar to demonstrate the occurrence of KH waves in stratiform orographic precipitation systems and identified four mechanisms for triggering KH waves. In Part II, we use similar observations to explore the effects of KH wave updrafts and turbulence on cloud microphysics. Measurements within KH wave updrafts reveal the production of liquid water in otherwise ice-dominated clouds, which can contribute to snow generation or enhancement via depositional and accretional growth. Fallstreaks beneath KH waves contain higher ice water content, composed of larger and more numerous ice particles, suggesting that KH waves and associated turbulence may also increase ice nucleation.

A Large-Eddy Simulation (LES), designed to model the microphysical response to the KH wave eddies in mixed phase cloud, shows that depositional and accretional growth can be enhanced in KH waves, resulting in more precipitation when compared to a baseline simulation. While sublimation and evaporation occur in KH downdrafts, persistent supersaturation with respect to ice allows for net increase in ice mass. These modeling results and observations suggest that KH waves embedded in mixed-phase stratiform clouds may increase precipitation, although the quantitative impact remains uncertain.
Role of cloud feedback in continental warming response to CO2 physiological forcing
Authors: Park So-Won , Kug Jong-Seong , Jun Sang-Yoon , Jeong Su-Jong , Kim Jin-Soo
Published: August 2021

Stomatal closure is a major physiological response to the increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), which can lead to surface warming by regulating surface energy fluxes—a phenomenon known as CO2physiological forcing. The magnitude of land surface warming caused by physiological forcing is substantial and varies across models. Here we assess the continental warming response to CO2physiological forcing and quantify the resultant climate feedback using carbon–climate simulations from phases 5 and 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project, with a focus on identifying the cause of inter-model spread. It is demonstrated that the continental (40°–70°N) warming response to the physiological forcing in summer (~0.55 K) is amplified primarily due to cloud feedback (~1.05 K), whereas the other climate feedbacks, ranged from –0.57 K to 0.20 K, show relatively minor contributions. In addition, the strength of cloud feedback varies considerably across models, which plays a primary role in leading large diversity of the continental warming response to the physiological forcing.
Nitrogen removal performance using anaerobic ammonium oxidation considering variable conditions
Authors: Wang Junmin , Fu Lei
Published: August 2021

The anaerobic nitrogen removal performance of anammox at 30°C, 25°C, and 16°C were studied by using the UASB (Up flow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket) reactor and the influent concentration of NH4+-N and NO2−-N were 16.9 and 20.6 mg L−1 respectively. Experimental results showed that high-efficiency anammox nitrogen removal could be achieved at 30°C, when hydraulic retention time (HRT) was 0.14 h, the nitrogen removal rate (NRR) was 5.73 kg N m−3 d−1. The anammox reactor operated stably for more than 80 days under the condition of 16°C–20°C, and the high NRR of 2.78 kg N m−3 d−1 was obtained. In this experiment, DO had little effect on the activity of anammox granular sludge, and the nitrogen removal performance could be quickly recovered in a short period of time after being affected by DO. Moreover, the stoichiometric ratio of NO2−-N and NH4+-N consumption (ΔNO2−-N/ΔNH4+-N) and the stoichiometric ratio of NO3−-N production and NH4+-N conversion (ΔNO3−-N/ΔNH4+-N) were 1.21 ± 0.11and 0.25 ± 0.06 respectively at 30°C, which were very close to the theoretical value, it indicated that anammox bacteria were the dominant bacteria at 30°C.
Small music ensemble and empathy: A replication study in a South Korean music student sample
Authors: Cho Eun , Yeoun Han Jeoung
Published: August 2021

Small ensemble participation represents a unique form of human social activity involving a profound level of interpersonal and emotional communication. Previous researchers have suggested that engagement in group music making may have a positive influence on various social-emotional skills, including empathy. In line with this view, the initial study explored the relationship between small ensemble experience and empathy among college music students in the United States. The study results revealed a close association between the two, with students who participated in small ensembles more frequently showing a higher level of empathy. This study aimed to replicate the initial study using the identical survey questionnaire in a college music student population in South Korea ( N = 183). Overall, Korean students scored significantly lower in the empathy measure than the US student sample, which echoed relatively lower empathy among Asian American students in the initial study. Also, consistent with the previous finding, an association between the primary area of music study and empathy was found, with popular music majors showing a higher level of empathy than classical music major students. Finally, some of the small ensemble experience variables appeared to be significant predictors of students’ empathy skills, which partially replicated the initial study.
Effects of COVID-19 on Substance Use in Singapore
Authors: Tan Ho Teck , Chai Boon Ceng , Lui Yit Shiang
Published: August 2021

This review examines the impact of COVID-19 on the substance-abuse landscape and climate with particular attention on Singapore’s. Substance-abuse has received the least attention during the COVID-19 outbreak and this pandemic has further sheared the problem’s visibility and the provision of care for this population of sufferers. The authors examine the current literature to look at the access and utility of street drugs due to border closure, the influence of the pandemic on prevailing drug behaviours as well as the effect of social distancing on drug-users. Two case studies are described. The paper serves to illuminate the ever-present problem of substance-abuse even during a viral pandemic and to remind the local government and healthcare system to continue efforts in caring for this group of patients.
Glucocorticoids in acute pancreatitis: a propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Wang Meng , Jiang Zongxing , Liang Hongyin
Published: August 2021

Background

There are few reports about the effect of glucocorticoids in the treatment of acute pancreatitis in humans. This study aims to evaluate the effect of glucocorticoids in the treatment of acute pancreatitis by propensity score matching analysis.

Results

Acute pancreatitis patients admitted between 2014 and 2019 were collected from the database and analyzed. Included patients were divided into the glucocorticoids-used group (GC group) and the non-glucocorticoids-used group (NGC group) according to whether glucocorticoids were used. A total of 818 eligible patients were included in the final analysis. Seventy-six patients were treated with glucocorticoids, and 742 patients were treated without glucocorticoids. Before propensity score matching, the triglyceride levels (38.2 ± 18.5 vs. 20.2 ± 16.8, P < 0.05) and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores (7.1 ± 2.5 vs. 4.5 ± 2.1, P < 0.05) at admission were significantly higher in the GC group than in the NGC group. The incidence of multi-organ failure (33.3% vs. 11.9%, P < 0.05) was significantly higher in the GC group than in the NGC group. Patients in the GC group showed a positive balance of fluid intake and output over 72 h. After 1:1 propensity score matching, 59 patients from each group (GC and NGC) were included in the analysis. There were no significant differences in age, sex, body mass index, triglycerides, or APACHE II scores between the two groups (P > 0.05), and the patients’ clinical outcomes were reversed. The proportion of patients with organ failure (40.7% vs. 52.5%, p < 0.05) and multi-organ failure (35.0% vs. 67.7%, P < 0.05) was significantly lower in the GC group than in the NGC group. Furthermore, patients in the GC group had significantly shorter lengths of hospital stay (12.9 ± 5.5 vs. 16.3 ± 7.7, P < 0.05) and costs (25,348.4 ± 2512.6vs. 32,421.7 ± 2813.3, P < 0.05) than those in the NGC group.

Conclusions

This study presents preliminary confirmation of the beneficial effect of glucocorticoids in the treatment of acute pancreatitis. More high-quality prospective studies are needed in the future.
Neuroblastoma xenograft models demonstrate the therapeutic potential of 177Lu-octreotate
Authors: Romiani Arman , Spetz Johan , Shubbar Emman , Lind Dan E. , Hallberg Bengt , Palmer Ruth H. , Forssell-Aronsson Eva
Published: August 2021

Background

Neuroblastoma (NB) is one of the most frequently diagnosed tumors in infants. NB is a neuroendocrine tumor type with various characteristics and features, and with diverse outcome. The most malignant NBs have a 5-year survival rate of only 40–50%, indicating the need for novel and improved treatment options. 177Lu-octreotate is routinely administered for treatment of neuroendocrine tumors overexpressing somatostatin receptors (SSTR). The aim of this study was to examine the biodistribution of 177Lu-octreotate in mice bearing aggressive human NB cell lines, in order to evaluate the potential usefulness of 177Lu-octreotate for treatment of NB.

Methods

BALB/c nude mice bearing CLB-BAR, CLB-GE or IMR-32 tumor xenografts (n = 5–7/group) were i.v. injected with 0.15 MBq, 1.5 MBq or 15 MBq 177Lu-octreotate and sacrificed 1 h, 24 h, 48 h and 168 h after administration. The radioactivity concentration was determined for collected tissue samples, tumor-to-normal-tissue activity concentration ratios (T/N) and mean absorbed dose for each tissue were calculated. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for SSTR1–5, and Ki67 were carried out for tumor xenografts from the three cell lines.

Results

High 177Lu concentration levels and T/N values were observed in all NB tumors, with the highest for CLB-GE tumor xenografts (72%IA/g 24 h p.i.; 1.5 MBq 177Lu-octreotate). The mean absorbed dose to the tumor was 6.8 Gy, 54 Gy and 29 Gy for CLB-BAR, CLB-GE and IMR-32, respectively, p.i. of 15 MBq 177Lu-octreotate. Receptor saturation was clearly observed in CLB-BAR, resulting in higher concentration levels in the tumor when lower activity levels where administered. IHC staining demonstrated highest expression of SSTR2 in CLB-GE, followed by CLB-BAR and IMR-32.

Conclusion

T/N values for all three human NB tumor xenograft types investigated were high relative to previously investigated neuroendocrine tumor types. The results indicate a clear potential of 177Lu-octreotate as a therapeutic alternative for metastatic NB.
Causes of death and effect of non-cancer-specific death on rates of overall survival in adult classic Hodgkin lymphoma: a populated-based competing risk analysis
Authors: Gao Jie , Chen Yingying , Wu Pengqiang , Wang Fujue , Tao Huan , Shen Qianqing , Wang Shuoting , Gong Shuaige , Zhang Xue , Zhou Zhencang , Song Xianmin , Jia Yongqian
Published: August 2021

Background

The improved prognosis of classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) has been accompanied by elevated risks of non–cancer-specific death (non-CSD). The aim of this study was to verify the occurrence of non-CSD and its effect on rates of overall survival among adult patients with cHL.

Methods

To ensure sufficient follow-up time, we analyzed retrospective data from patients aged ≥20 years with cHL that was diagnosed between 1983 and 2005 in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Logistic regression was applied to analyze the non-CSD occurrence in relation to all factors. Using Fine-Gray’s method, we calculated the cumulative incidences of CSD and non-CSD. Stacked cumulative incidence plots and ratio of non-CSD to all causes of death were applied to evaluate the effect of non-CSD on rates of overall survival. Finally, we analyzed long-term mortality through Cox proportional hazard regression analysis and competing risk regression analysis to emphasize a more appropriate model of survival for patients with cHL.

Results

Among the 18,518 patients included, there were 3768 cases of CSD (20.3%) and 3217 of non-CSD (17.4%). Older age, earlier period, male sex, unmarried status, mixed cellularity (MC) and lymphocyte-depletion (LD) histological subtype, and patients received radiotherapy (RT) only were associated with more non-CSD according to binary logistic analysis. The cumulative incidence of non-CSD exceeded CSD after approximately 280 months follow-up. The most common causes of non-CSDs were cardiovascular disease, subsequent primary neoplasms, infectious diseases, accidents, and suicide. In a Cox proportional hazards model, patients who were black, unmarried, at an advanced stage or underwent chemotherapy (CT) alone were at greater risk of mortality than were white patients, who were married, at an early stage, and underwent combined modality; these populations were also found to be at greater risk for CSD in a competing risk model, but the risk of non-CSD did not differ significantly according to race and marital status, patients with early-stage disease and who underwent RT only were found to be at higher risk of non-CSD instead.

Conclusions

Lymphoma was the cause of death in most patients who died, but non-CSD was not unusual. Patients with cHL should be monitored closely for signs of cardiovascular disease and malignant tumors. Rates of overall survival of patients were diminished by non-CSD, and a competing risk model was more suitable for establishing the prognosis than was the Cox proportional hazards model.