bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thinking Outside the Box about What it Means to Be a Citizen Centered Smart City
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Lisa
Published: September 2023

"[We have] really finally started to look at why we build things the way we build them, which is very archaic. I mean, the way we built structures and roads is ancient, you know, we're finally questioning do we have to do it this way? Like we're doing it just because that's the way we did it before. But then how we run them. No one has asked that same question. The way that we influence the people within these cities still stems back to feudal and pre feudal systems. I am the magnificent Lord, and I know how you should behave. So do this, or I will punish you."

carry someone from A to B to make the right choices? What if we applied that at a civic level? What if we applied that in cities, because for the most part, [directing behavior takes place via] negative reinforcement. Do this, [you get a] fine, do this [you face] incarceration, but there's not a lot of positive design in civic or urban environments. I mean, there's very little, if any, at all. And so that's where I jumped in and really became fascinated in merging these ideas of art, entertainment and video games with this, behavioral activation, incentivizing the lay citizen to make good choices based on things they don't even know we're doing."

IoT program for parks and recreation for cities. Their slide deck was very focused on 'this is how much you could save as a city. This is how you could respond faster to vandalism or requisite services. This is how you can monitor if it's being used when it's not supposed to or without permits'. And it was so authoritarian. I mean, it was really genuinely like, you know, you're not using the way we told you to. And it took me about 30 seconds. I just said what if that exact same technology was just reused and reframed and said hey, the park is too busy considering COVID restrictions. You shouldn't go with your family. Here's a park less than half a mile down the street that's completely empty and probably safer for younger children. The exact same technology for a completely different purpose."
The Distinctive Biology and Characteristics of the Bare-Nosed Wombat (Vombatus ursinus)
Authors: Carver Scott , Stannard Georgia L. , Martin Alynn M.
Published: September 2023

The bare-nosed wombat is an iconic Australian fauna with remarkable biological characteristics and mythology. This solitary, muscular, fossorial, herbivorous marsupial from southeast Australia has continent and continental island subspeciation. Vombatiformes also contains hairy-nosed wombats ( Lasiorhinus spp.); koala ( Phascolarctos cinereus); and extinct megafauna, Phascolonus gigas (giant wombat), Diprotodon, and Thylacoleo (marsupial lion). Culturally important to Aboriginal people, bare-nosed wombats engineer ecosystems through digging, grazing, and defecation. Olfaction and cubic fecal aggregations appear critical for communication, including identity, courtship, and mating. Though among the largest fossorial herbivores, they have a nutrient-poor diet, a home range up to an order of magnitude smaller than expected, and a metabolism among the lowest extreme for mammals >10 kg. Metabolic depression may confer advantages over resource competitors and fossorial lifestyle protection from predators, fires, and climatic extremes. Bare-nosed wombats are loved and persecuted by European colonists. Recent population increases may reflect softening attitudes toward, and greater protections of, bare-nosed wombats.
Management of Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Lauder Lucas , Mahfoud Felix , Böhm Michael
Published: September 2023

Resistant hypertension (RH) is a severe form of hypertension associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Although true RH affects less than 10% of the patients receiving antihypertensive therapy, the absolute number is high and continues to increase. The workup of these patients requires screening for secondary hypertension and pseudoresistance, including poor adherence to prescribed medicines and the white-coat phenomenon. The treatment of RH consists of lifestyle modifications and pharmacological therapies. Lifestyle modifications include dietary adjustments, weight loss, physical activity, and limiting alcohol consumption; pharmacological therapies include diuretics, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, beta blockers, angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitors, and others. Over the last 15 years, interventional approaches have emerged as adjunct treatment options; we highlight catheter-based renal denervation. This review summarizes the rationales and latest clinical evidence and, based thereon, proposes an updated algorithm for the management of RH.
Mueller maneuver attenuates left atrial phasic volumes and myocardial strain in healthy younger adults
Authors: Wright Stephen P. , Dawkins Tony G. , Harper Megan I. , Stembridge Mike , Shave Rob , Eves Neil D.
Published: September 2023

In healthy younger adults, the Mueller maneuver transiently reduces left atrial filling and passive emptying during the reservoir and conduit phases, respectively. Corresponding reductions are seen in left atrial reservoir and conduit phase longitudinal myocardial strain and strain rate. However, left atrial pump phase active function and mechanics are largely preserved compared with baseline. Rapid changes in LA chamber volumes and myocardial strain with recurrent forceful inspiratory efforts and relaxation may reflect acute LA stress.
Lepidium sativum Seed Extract-Mediated Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Structural, Morphological, Optical, Hemolysis, and Antibacterial Studies
Authors: Alnehia Adnan , Al-Sharabi Annas , Al-Odayni Abdel-Basit , Al-Hammadi A. H. , AL-Ostoot Fares H. , Saeed Waseem Sharaf , Abduh Naaser A. Y. , Alrahlah Ali
Published: September 2023

Nanomaterials have unique physicochemical properties compared to their bulk counterparts. Besides, biologically synthesized nanoparticles (NPs) have proven superior to other methods. This work aimed to biosynthesize zinc oxide (ZnO) NPs using an aqueous extract of Lepidium sativum seed. The obtained ZnO NPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. The in vitro antibacterial activity of ZnO NPs against Gram-positive (S. aureus) and Gram-negative (E. coli) bacteria was assessed using the disk diffusion technique. The hemolytic impact was quantified spectrophotometrically. The results indicated a 24.2 nm crystallite size, a hexagonal structure phase, and a 3.48 eV optical bandgap. Antibacterial studies revealed a dose-dependent response with comparable activity to the standard drug (gentamicin) and higher activity against S. aureus than E. coli, e.g., the zone of inhibition at 120 mg/mL was 23 ± 1.25 and 16 ± 1.00 mm, respectively. The hemolysis assay showed no potential harm due to ZnO NPs toward red blood cells if utilized in low doses. As a result, it could be concluded that the reported biogenic method for synthesizing ZnO NPs is promising, resulting in hemocompatible NPs and comparable bactericidal agents.
COTE1 Facilitates Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Progression via Beclin1‐Dependent Autophagy Inhibition
Authors: Zhang Hai , Chen Shu , Xu Sanrong , Li Xiangcheng
Published: September 2023

COTE1 was recently described as an oncogene in hepatocellular carcinoma and gastric cancer. However, the roles of COTE1 in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) are little known. Our study is aimed at clarifying novel functions of COTE1 in ICC progression, including proliferation, invasion, and autophagy. By using quantitative real‐time PCR, immunohistochemistry staining, and western blotting, we found that COTE1 expression was frequently upregulated in ICC tissues, compared to paracarcinoma tissues. High COTE1 expression was significantly correlated with aggressive clinical features and predicted poor prognosis of ICC patients. Functional experiments revealed that ectopic COTE1 expression promoted ICC cell proliferation, colony formation, cellular invasion, migration, and in vivo tumorigenicity; in contrast, COTE1 knockdown resulted in the opposite effects. At molecular mechanism in vitro and vivo, our study revealed that COTE1 overexpression suppressed autophagy via Beclin1 transcription inhibition; conversely, COTE1 silencing facilitated autophagy through promoting Beclin1 expression. Furthermore, the suppression of COTE1 knockdown on cellular growth and invasion was rescued/aggravated by Beclin1 inhibition/accumulation. Our data, for the first time, illustrate that COTE1 is an oncogene in ICC pathogenesis, and the ectopic COTE1 expression promotes ICC proliferation and invasion via Beclin1‐dependent autophagy inhibition.
Seminal TEX101 May Predict Seminal Sperm Recovery after Varicocelectomy in Nonobstructive Azoospermic Patients with Varicocele
Authors: Ragab Mohamed Wael , Saad Mina , Nour Zeinab , Hamed Hamed Abdallah , Mostafa Taymour , El-Guindi Ahmed M.
Published: September 2023

Background. Infertile men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) associated with varicocele may benefit from varicocele repair with recovered sperms in semen. Currently, there is no clinically applied method to predict the success of seminal sperm recovery in this subset of azoospermic men. Objective. We aimed to evaluate the predictive role of the seminal testis expressed protein (TEX101) in sperm recovery in the semen of NOA men with palpable bilateral varicocele after microsurgical varicocelectomy. Patients and Methods. This prospective cross-sectional cohort study included 40 patients with NOA and bilateral varicocele. Seminal TEX101 levels were measured followed by subinguinal microsurgical varicocele repair. Two seminal analyses were carried out at 3- and 6-month follow-up periods to evaluate seminal sperm recovery. Results. After varicocele repair, sperms were recovered in the semen of 10/40 patients (25%) along the follow-up periods (seven patients after 3 months and additional three patients after 6 months). The preoperative median seminal TEX101 level was significantly higher in NOA men with seminal sperm recovery compared with NOA patients without seminal sperm recovery (13.5 vs. 9.8 ng/ml,

p
=
0.014

). Besides, the serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) median levels were significantly higher in NOA men without seminal sperm recovery compared with NOA men with seminal sperm recovery (

p
=
0.001

,

p
=
0.01

). There were nonsignificant differences comparing the preoperative testicular volume or serum testosterone levels between the two investigated groups (

p
=
0.072

,

p
=
0.272

). A cutoff value of 9.9 ng/ml was demonstrated to have preoperative TEX101 prediction of seminal sperm recovery (sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 57%). Conclusion. Preoperative seminal TEX101 could be considered as a biomarker for sperm recovery for seminal sperm recovery in NOA cases associated with varicocele after its surgical repair. Further work at this point with larger number of cases should be carried out to verify its potential importance.
Development of an Improved Steamer for Optimum Retention of Carotenoids in Attiéké Produced from Biofortified Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Roots
Authors: Alamu Emmanule Oladeji , Sangodoyin Olakunle M. , Diallo Thierno A. , Kolawole Peter O. , Olajide John O. , Jekayinfa Simeon O. , Abass Adebayo , Tran Thierry , Awoyale Wasiu , Parkes Elizabeth , Maziya-Dixon Busie
Published: September 2023

Attiéké, made from biofortified (yellow) cassava genotypes, requires a new cooking method to minimize carotenoid degradation during processing. Thus, this research is aimed at designing and building a more efficient steamer to produce high-quality attiéké from biofortified cassava roots. Using three improved biofortified cassava genotypes (IBA141092, IBA070593, and IBA011368) obtained from IITA research farms, attiéké samples were produced using traditional and developed steamers. The results show that the developed steamer outperformed the traditional steamer; it was 1.5 times faster, used less fuel (2.6 times less), and had higher true carotenoid retention. The developed steamer genotype IBA070593 had the highest true retention of 90.4 percent, while the traditional steamer genotype IBA0141092 had the lowest carotenoid retention of 61.9 percent and the highest in the developed steamer (62.4 percent). When compared to the traditional steamer, the developed steamer had better cooking performance and a more extraordinary ability to retain carotenoids. Thus, the developed steamer is recommended for attiéké processors due to its improved cooking performance, and using this steamer to produce attiéké from biofortified cassava will help to alleviate vitamin A deficiency among attiéké consumers.
A Novel Fruit Fly Optimization Algorithm with Evolution Strategy for Magnetotelluric Data Inversion
Authors: Yin Bin , Yang Jie , Li Yue
Published: September 2023

As a novel metaheuristic algorithm, fruit fly optimization algorithm (FOA) can effectively deal with the inversion problem of one-dimensional magnetotelluric data. However, FOA still has the disadvantage of premature convergence and falling into local extreme value. Therefore, based on standard FOA, we improve the FOA algorithm by introducing evolutionary strategies. Firstly, crossover and mutation strategies are introduced to improve the updating process of FOA population individuals. Secondly, by improving the variation scale factor, the global search and local search capabilities of the algorithm are balanced, and these improvements can accelerate the algorithm convergence. The improved algorithm is compared with other algorithms. After the benchmark function test, the improved algorithm has better optimization ability. Finally, the MT theoretical model and field data are used to test that the evolutionary strategy can effectively improve the convergence speed of the algorithm, and the inversion accuracy of the new algorithm is greatly improved.
Autotaxin Secretion Is a Stromal Mechanism of Adaptive Resistance to TGFβ Inhibition in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Pietrobono Silvia , Sabbadini Fabio , Bertolini Monica , Mangiameli Domenico , De Vita Veronica , Fazzini Federica , Lunardi Giulia , Casalino Simona , Scarlato Enza , Merz Valeria , Zecchetto Camilla , Quinzii Alberto , Di Conza Giusy , Lahn Michael , Melisi Davide
Published: September 2023

The TGFβ receptor inhibitor galunisertib demonstrated efficacy in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in the randomized phase II H9H-MC-JBAJ study, which compared galunisertib plus the chemotherapeutic agent gemcitabine with gemcitabine alone. However, additional stromal paracrine signals might confer adaptive resistance that limits the efficacy of this therapeutic strategy. Here, we found that autotaxin, a secreted enzyme that promotes inflammation and fibrosis by generating lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), mediates adaptive resistance to TGFβ receptor inhibition. Blocking TGFβ signaling prompted the skewing of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) toward an inflammatory (iCAF) phenotype. iCAFs were responsible for a significant secretion of autotaxin. Paracrine autotaxin increased LPA-NFκB signaling in tumor cells that triggered treatment resistance. The autotaxin inhibitor IOA-289 suppressed NFκB activation in PDAC cells and overcame resistance to galunisertib and gemcitabine. In immunocompetent orthotopic murine models, IOA-289 synergized with galunisertib in restoring sensitivity to gemcitabine. Most importantly, treatment with galunisertib significantly increased plasma levels of autotaxin in patients enrolled in the H9H-MC-JBAJ study, and median progression-free survival was significantly longer in patients without an increase of autotaxin upon treatment with galunisertib compared with those with increased autotaxin. These results establish that autotaxin secretion by CAFs is increased by TGFβ inhibition and that circulating autotaxin levels predict response to the combination treatment approach of gemcitabine plus galunisertib.

Significance:

TGFβ inhibition skews cancer-associated fibroblasts toward an inflammatory phenotype that secretes autotaxin to drive adaptive resistance in PDAC, revealing autotaxin as a therapeutic target and biomarker of galunisertib response.
Table S1 from Clinical Activity of Ripretinib in Patients with Advanced Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Harboring Heterogeneous KIT/PDGFRA Mutations in the Phase III INVICTUS Study
Authors: Bauer Sebastian , Heinrich Michael C. , George Suzanne , Zalcberg John R. , Serrano César , Gelderblom Hans , Jones Robin L. , Attia Steven , D'Amato Gina , Chi Ping , Reichardt Peter , Meade Julie , Su Ying , Ruiz-Soto Rodrigo , Blay Jean-Yves , von Mehren Margaret , Schöffski Patrick
Published: September 2023

Supplementary Table S1 shows the outcomes of KIT/PDGFRA WT patients
Survivin Dendritic Cell Vaccine Safely Induces Immune Responses and Is Associated with Durable Disease Control after Autologous Transplant in Patients with Myeloma
Authors: Freeman Ciara L. , Atkins Reginald , Varadarajan Indumathy , Menges Meghan , Edelman Jeffrey , Baz Rachid , Brayer Jason , Castaneda Puglianini Omar , Ochoa-Bayona Jose Leonel , Nishihori Taiga , Shain Kenneth H. , Shah Bijal , Chen Dung Tsa , Kelley Linda , Coppola Domenico , Alsina Melissa , Antonia Scott , Anasetti Claudio , Locke Frederick L.
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

We investigated whether a dendritic cell (DC) vaccine transduced with an adenoviral vector encoded with full-length survivin (Ad-S), with mutations neutralizing its antiapoptotic function, could safely generate an immune response and deepen clinical responses when administered before and after autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) for multiple myeloma.

Patients and Methods:

This phase I first-in-human trial (NCT02851056) evaluated the safety of DC:Ad-S in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma not having achieved complete response with induction, given 7 to 30 days prior to stem cell collection and 20 to 34 days after ASCT. Anti-survivin antibodies and CD4+ and CD8+ specific T cells were quantified.

Results:

A total of 14 patients were treated and 13 included in the primary efficacy analysis. No serious adverse events were attributed to DC:Ad-S vaccine. Detectable anti-survivin antibodies increased from baseline in 9 of 13 (69%) patients, and 11 of 13 (85%) mounted either a cellular or humoral immune response to survivin. Seven patients had an improved clinical response at day +90, all of whom had mounted an immune response, and 6 of 7 patients remain event-free at a median follow-up of 4.2 years. Estimated progression-free survival at 4 years is 71% (95% confidence interval, 41–88).

Conclusions:

Two doses of DC:Ad-S, one given immediately before and another after ASCT, were feasible and safe. A high frequency of vaccine-specific immune responses was seen in combination with durable clinical outcomes, supporting ongoing investigation into the potential of this approach.

See related commentary by Dhodapkar, p. 4524
Table S1 from Marijuana and Cannabidiol Use Prevalence and Symptom Management Among Patients with Cancer
Authors: Brasky Theodore M. , Newton Alison M. , Conroy Sara , Adib Anita , Adley Neema C. , Strassels Scott A. , Hays John L. , Cooper Ziva D. , Wagener Theodore L. , Stevens Erin , Plascak Jesse J. , Krok-Schoen Jessica L.
Published: September 2023

Patterns of current cannabis product use by medical marijuana prescription status and timing of cannabis initiation.
TABLE 3 from Marijuana and Cannabidiol Use Prevalence and Symptom Management Among Patients with Cancer
Authors: Brasky Theodore M. , Newton Alison M. , Conroy Sara , Adib Anita , Adley Neema C. , Strassels Scott A. , Hays John L. , Cooper Ziva D. , Wagener Theodore L. , Stevens Erin , Plascak Jesse J. , Krok-Schoen Jessica L.
Published: September 2023

Patterns of current cannabis product use (n = 142)
TABLE 2 from Marijuana and Cannabidiol Use Prevalence and Symptom Management Among Patients with Cancer
Authors: Brasky Theodore M. , Newton Alison M. , Conroy Sara , Adib Anita , Adley Neema C. , Strassels Scott A. , Hays John L. , Cooper Ziva D. , Wagener Theodore L. , Stevens Erin , Plascak Jesse J. , Krok-Schoen Jessica L.
Published: September 2023

Selected characteristics among 934 patients with invasive cancer, overall and stratified on current cannabis use
FIGURE 2 from Marijuana and Cannabidiol Use Prevalence and Symptom Management Among Patients with Cancer
Authors: Brasky Theodore M. , Newton Alison M. , Conroy Sara , Adib Anita , Adley Neema C. , Strassels Scott A. , Hays John L. , Cooper Ziva D. , Wagener Theodore L. , Stevens Erin , Plascak Jesse J. , Krok-Schoen Jessica L.
Published: September 2023

Proportion of 142 current cannabis users reporting reasons for cannabis use (left ordinate; bars), and medians and quartile ranges (right ordinate; dots and lines) of the degree to which participants reported symptom relief from cannabis (scale of 1 to 10). Reasons for use are nonmutually exclusive and data do not sum to 100%. Not shown: 28% reported use of cannabis products for enjoyment/recreation. Different than symptom-related reasons for use, participants were not asked a follow-up question to rank enjoyment/recreation.
FIGURE 1 from Marijuana and Cannabidiol Use Prevalence and Symptom Management Among Patients with Cancer
Authors: Brasky Theodore M. , Newton Alison M. , Conroy Sara , Adib Anita , Adley Neema C. , Strassels Scott A. , Hays John L. , Cooper Ziva D. , Wagener Theodore L. , Stevens Erin , Plascak Jesse J. , Krok-Schoen Jessica L.
Published: September 2023

Methods of obtaining cannabis products and modes of current cannabis product use among 142 patients with cancer. Participants took cannabis in multiple ways and category sample sizes do not sum to 142. Response options for how cannabis is obtained or details on modes of use are also nonmutually exclusive and do not sum to category totals. Category “other” (n = 5 responses) is not pictured above.
E2F1 Mediates SOX17 Deficiency–Induced Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Yi Dan , Liu Bin , Ding Hongxu , Li Shuai , Li Rebecca , Pan Jiakai , Ramirez Karina , Xia Xiaomei , Kala Mrinalini , Ye Qinmao , Lee Won Hee , Frye Richard E. , Wang Ting , Zhao Yutong , Knox Kenneth S. , Glembotski Christopher C. , Fallon Michael B. , Dai Zhiyu
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Rare genetic variants and genetic variation at loci in an enhancer in SOX17 (SRY-box transcription factor 17) are identified in patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and PAH with congenital heart disease. However, the exact role of genetic variants or mutations in SOX17 in PAH pathogenesis has not been reported.

METHODS:

SOX17 expression was evaluated in the lungs and pulmonary endothelial cells (ECs) of patients with idiopathic PAH. Mice with Tie2Cre-mediated Sox17 knockdown and EC-specific Sox17 deletion were generated to determine the role of SOX17 deficiency in the pathogenesis of PAH. Human pulmonary ECs were cultured to understand the role of SOX17 deficiency. Single-cell RNA sequencing, RNA-sequencing analysis, and luciferase assay were performed to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms of SOX17 deficiency–induced PAH. E2F1 (E2F transcription factor 1) inhibitor HLM006474 was used in EC-specific Sox17 mice.

RESULTS:

SOX17 expression was downregulated in the lung and pulmonary ECs from patients with idiopathic PAH. Mice with Tie2Cre-mediated Sox17 knockdown and EC-specific Sox17 deletion induced spontaneously mild pulmonary hypertension. Loss of endothelial Sox17 in EC exacerbated hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension in mice. Loss of SOX17 in lung ECs induced endothelial dysfunctions including upregulation of cell cycle programming, proliferative and antiapoptotic phenotypes, augmentation of paracrine effect on pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells, impaired cellular junction, and BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) signaling. E2F1 signaling was shown to mediate the SOX17 deficiency–induced EC dysfunction. Pharmacological inhibition of E2F1 in Sox17 EC-deficient mice attenuated pulmonary hypertension development.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our study demonstrated that endothelial SOX17 deficiency induces pulmonary hypertension through E2F1. Thus, targeting E2F1 signaling represents a promising approach in patients with PAH.
Preparation of Doxycycline Hydrochloride Guided Tissue Regeneration/Guided Bone Regeneration Membranes Through Electrostatic Spinning for the Treatment of Peri-Implantitis
Authors: Liu Geng , Li Jianbo , Shi Xue
Published: September 2023

Objective: The nanofibre membrane with the antibacterial doxycycline (DOX) intermediate layer can direct tissue regeneration and have antibacterial properties. Through the use of electrospinning, we were able to create DOX-loaded guided tissue regeneration (GTR)/guided bone regeneration
(GBR) membranes and assess their efficacy in the treatment of peri-implantitis. Methods: Electrostatic spinning was used to create DOX-containing poly(caprolactone) (PCL) nanofibres, and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to examine the membranes’ surface morphology.
Results: The synthesised DOX-PCL nanofibres were found to have a smooth surface and a uniform diameter distribution, as revealed by scanning electron microscopy. When the percentage of DOX was raised from 15% to 25%, the fibre diameter shrank from 247.17 nm to 181.34 nm. According to
differential calorimetry, the heat absorption peaks for the pre-electrospun PCL and 10% PCL electrospun membranes were most pronounced at 66 °C, while the peaks for the DOX powder showed at 171.5 °C. With the shift in drug loading, carbonization occurred at 223.5 degrees Celsius. PCL
underwent a thermal reaction between 60 and 66 degrees Celsius. However, medication loading was strongly correlated with the level of suppression. Agar diffusion results showed that DOX-loaded nanofibre membranes inhibited the growth of Actinomyces (Aa) and Porphyromonas gingivalis; for both
bacterial species, the diameter of the inhibition zone grew larger when more drug was added to the membranes. After 1 hour, 4 hours, 12 hours, 1 day, 7 days, and 28 days of the experiment, the cumulative drug release rates of CL+DOX were 19.14%, 36.16%, 44.37%, 59.52%, and 65.150%, respectively.
After the initial steep drop during the first three days of the trial, the PCL-DOX release rate stabilised at around 1.61 percent per hour. Minimum concentration was 3.13 g/mL, while PCL-DOX release rate fell from 1.28 percent on Day 4 to 0.51 percent on Day 28. Conclusion: Combining
the availability of natural polymeric materials with the reliability of manufactured polymeric materials, the three-layer nanofibre membranes use PCL-GE as a double surface layer and PCL-DOX as an intermediate layer. In addition, the physical insulating qualities of these membranes are maintained,
which allows the fibre membrane to perform a sustained antibacterial action and prevents the initial, abrupt release of the medication in the tissue. Peri-implantitis may be treatable with the use of both pharmaceuticals and GTR/GBR technology.
General Control Nonderepressible 2 Promotes M2 Macrophages Polarization and Renal Function After Sepsis-Induced Renal Injury
Authors: Wang Hongfei , Lin Zhu , Li Wenhua , Dou Lin
Published: September 2023

The early metastasis of inflammatory M1 macrophages to M2 macrophages is an early marker for macrophages to play an anti-inflammatory role, while the role of macrophages in the kidney injury induced by sepsis is still poorly studied. We used septic serum to treat BMDMs at several time
points, and then detect the expression of GCN2 in BMDMs. Western blot was used to detect the expression of iNos and Arg1 of macrophages. ELISA was used to detect the inflammatory cytokines. In vivo, the mice model of septic renal injury was established and immunohistochemistry was used
to detect M1 and M2 markers, and IL-6 level. BUN, Scr and NAG were detected to assess renal function. The protein expression of GCN2 was increased in septic serum-stimulated BMDMs. WB results showed that GCN2 promote macrophage M1 to M2 polarization and decrease inflammation in vitro.
GCN2 expression was increased in response to sepsis induced renal injury In vivo. When we overexpressed GCN2, there were more M1 polarizing to M2 and less inflammation, and it will improve renal function. Our study confirmed that increasing GCN2 expression can drive the polarization
of M1 macrophages to M2, alleviate the renal inflammation and improve renal function induced by LPS.
Brassinin Inhibits Progression and Induces Apoptosis in Gastric Cancer Cells by Regulating NF-κB Signaling Cascade
Authors: Li Jianwen
Published: September 2023

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most frequent cancers, resulting in plenty of death worldwide. Brassinin is a plant antibiotic extracted from cruciferous vegetables and exerts a vital anticancer role in various cancers. Nevertheless, its function and mechanism in GC are still uncovered.
The role of brassinin in proliferation in GC cells were tested with cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) or 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay. The apoptotic cells were observed utilizing flow cytometry assay. Transwell analysis was introduced to assess GC cell migration as well as invasion.
The downstream pathway regulated via brassinin in GC cells was determined utilizing Cignal Finder RTK signaling 10-Pathway Reporter Array and verified with Western blot assay. Brassinin reduced GC cell viability in a concentrated-dependent way. The brassinin treatment blocked cell migration
in addition to invasion, and induced apoptosis in GC cells. Additionally, brassinin administration inactivated the NF-κB cascade signal. Meanwhile, NF-κB activator counteracted the effects of brassinin on GC cell progression. This investigation pointed out that brassinin
inhibited growth and induced apoptosis at least partly by mediating NF-κB pathway in GC cells, which indicated that brassinin will be a promising drug for treating GC.
Physicochemical and Biological Properties of Smartee-Invisalign in Patients with Malocclusion
Authors: Yu Qiaolong , Yuan Guanbao , Qiu Qianqian , Wu Gang , Wang Xingxing , Shen Yaochuan , Chen Juanjuan , Huang Zhumei , Gan Mingjing , Chen Xin
Published: September 2023

We tested physicochemical and biological properties of Smartee-Invisalign and found that it had superior light transmittance, good physical stability, and relatively unchanged tensile strength, elasticity modulus, and bending strength over time. It had good antibacterial properties
and minimal toxic effects on oral cells and was thus safe to be wear. Physically, Smartee-Invisalign can correct malocclusion, and improve the patient’s chewing ability and quality of life without increasing the risk of periodontal bleeding. Mentally, it can improved patients’
psychological state, including engaging in more natural interpersonal interactions and significantly reducing depression and anxiety. Furthermore, it improved patients’ self-approval and self-aesthetics thus helping these patients to develop a healthier mental state. In conclusion, Smartee-Invisalign
effectively improved the physical and mental health of patients with malocclusion.
Effect of limestone powder on properties of self-leveling mortar
Authors: Xu Hao , Chen Fei-Jin , Tao Hong-Yu , He Yi-Feng , Zhai Wen-Qiang , Zhang Jian-Ping , He Zhi-Hai
Published: September 2023

Mixing limestone powder (LP) in the self-leveling mortar (SLM) can not only solve the problems of LP waste randomly piled up and secondary utilization of resources, but also reduce the raw material cost of SLM and have excellent mechanical properties. The effect of replacing fly ash
(FA) with LP and replacing cement with LP after completely replacing FA on fluidity and strength of SLM are studied. The microstructure of SLM is measured by mercury intrusion porosimetry and scanning electron microscope. The results show that the initial fluidity and the 20-min fluidity of
SLM decrease gradually with the increase of LP content. The strength of SLM increases and then decreases with the increase of LP replacing FA, and the strength is the highest when the addition of LP is 40%. When LP replaces cement after completely replacing FA, the strength of SLM decreases
with the increase of displacement. Excessive LP can greatly damage the mechanical properties of SLM. The appropriate content of LP can improve the microstructure of SLM and promote the formation of hydration products, which is helpful to reduce the porosity and thus improves the structure
density. This may be due to the chemical reaction and the microfiller effect of LP.
Protective effect of luteolin on cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats with myocardial infarction through ERK/JNK signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Meng , Lu Lei , Yuan Ling , Chen Xiaohu
Published: September 2023

Due to the increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases, the incidence of cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is also on the rise. Luteolin has a certain protective effect on myocardium. Therefore, this study focuses on whether luteolin can protect IRI in rats with myocardial
infarction. A myocardial infarction rat model was prepared and the isolated heart was treated to induce cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury. British biodegradable packaging company (BIOPAC) biological signal collector detects myocardial indicators; semi-automatic biochemical analyzer detects
myocardial infarct size; hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining observes pathological changes along with analysis of the levels of ERK, JNK, and Caspase-3 and proliferation and apoptosis of myocardial cells. Luteolin can improve the myocardial index level of rats with myocardial infarction and increase
survival rate; the rats in luteolin group have the smallest myocardial infarction area, and the myocardial tissue is tightly arranged, the myocardial collagen is significantly reduced, and the myocardial injury index is significantly reduced. Luteolin inhibited the proliferation, migration
and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. Caspase-3, ERK, and JNK expression in the ERK/JNK agonist group was the most obvious. Their levels were highest in the luteolin+ERK/JNK agonist group (vs. other groups, P <0.05), which was higher than ERK/JNK agonist group. Luteolin can inhibit Caspase-3
expression by activating ERK/JNK signaling pathway, thereby reducing myocardial injury.
Properties of waterborne polyurethane chemically modified composite materials and their application in gushing water protection
Authors: Jin Junqi , He Qiao , Li Shuqin , Zhou Xuan , Fang Yongqiao
Published: September 2023

The absence of organic solutions during the preparation of waterborne polyurethane has resulted in a decline in its overall performance. To address this issue, this study introduces nano zirconia as a modifier to enhance the properties of the polyurethane material. A novel composite
material combining waterborne polyurethane and zirconium oxide nanoparticles (ZrO2 NPs) was proposed, and its performance was experimentally analyzed. The particle size of ZrO2@CA is as high as 80 nm, which exceeds the 23 nm of ZrO2@MA and the 21 nm of ZrO2@AA.
Transmission electron microscopy reveals that the emulsion droplets in the composite lotion exhibit excellent spherical uniformity and dispersion. Moreover, there is not a significant difference in size between composite lotions with different zirconia contents. Remarkably, even with a zirconia
content of only 0.5 wt%, the specimen exhibits high mechanical properties, with the tensile strength increasing from 11.9 MPa to 14.3 MPa and the elongation at break increasing from 560% to 712%. Additionally, a higher doping amount of ZrO2 leads to an increased water absorption
rate, with the actual water absorption rate rising from 7% to 14.4%. In practical engineering projects A and B, the initial water output of four holes in engineering A is maintained at 48–580 m3/h. However, as time progresses, the water output gradually decreases, approaching
0 m3/h. In project B, the composite material coating exhibits a tensile strength greater than 15 MPa, reaching 18.26 MPa, which significantly surpasses the performance of the comparison material. Overall, the composite materials demonstrate excellent mechanical and water protection
properties, proving to be crucial for practical water inrush protection applications.
Low rate of nonrelapse mortality in under-4-year-olds with ALL given chemotherapeutic conditioning for HSCT: a phase 3 FORUM study
Authors: Bader Peter , Pötschger Ulrike , Dalle Jean-Hugues , Moser Laura M. , Balduzzi Adriana , Ansari Marc , Buechner Jochen , Güngör Tayfun , Ifversen Marianne , Krivan Gergely , Pichler Herbert , Renard Marleen , Staciuk Raquel , Sedlacek Petr , Stein Jerry , Heusel Jan Robert , Truong Tony , Wachowiak Jacek , Yesilipek Akif , Locatelli Franco , Peters Christina
Published: September 2023

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is highly effective for treating pediatric high-risk or relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). For young children, total body irradiation (TBI) is associated with severe late sequelae. In the FORUM study (NCT01949129), we assessed safety, event-free survival (EFS), and overall survival (OS) of 2 TBI-free conditioning regimens in children aged <4 years with ALL. Patients received fludarabine (Flu), thiotepa (Thio), and either busulfan (Bu) or treosulfan (Treo) before HSCT. From 2013 to 2021, 191 children received transplantation and were observed for ≥6 months (median follow-up: 3 years). The 3-year OS was 0.63 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.52-0.72) and 0.76 (95% CI, 0.64-0.84) for Flu/Thio/Bu and Flu/Thio/Treo (P = .075), respectively. Three-year EFS was 0.52 (95% CI, 0.41-0.61) and 0.51 (95% CI, 0.39-0.62), respectively (P = .794). Cumulative incidence of nonrelapse mortality (NRM) and relapse at 3 years were 0.06 (95% CI, 0.02-0.12) vs 0.03 (95% CI: <0.01-0.09) (P = .406) and 0.42 (95% CI, 0.31-0.52) vs 0.45 (95% CI, 0.34-0.56) (P = .920), respectively. Grade >1 acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) occurred in 29% of patients receiving Flu/Thio/Bu and 17% of those receiving Flu/Thio/Treo (P = .049), whereas grade 3/4 occurred in 10% and 9%, respectively (P = .813). The 3-year incidence of chronic GVHD was 0.07 (95% CI, 0.03-0.13) vs 0.05 (95% CI, 0.02-0.11), respectively (P = .518). In conclusion, both chemotherapeutic conditioning regimens were well tolerated and NRM was low. However, relapse was the major cause of treatment failure. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01949129.
Interaction between N6-methyladenosine modification and the tumor microenvironment in colorectal cancer
Authors: Yao Jiali , Song Yeke , Yu Xiaoping , Lin Zhijie
Published: September 2023

The incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer (CRC) are rapidly increasing worldwide. Recently, there has been significant attention given to N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most common mRNA modification, especially for its effects on CRC development. It is important to note that the progression of CRC would be greatly hindered without the tumor microenvironment (TME). The interaction between CRC cells and their surroundings can activate and influence complex signaling mechanisms of epigenetic changes to affect the survival of tumor cells with a malignant phenotype. Additionally, the TME is influenced by m6A regulatory factors, impacting the progression and prognosis of CRC. In this review, we describe the interactions and specific mechanisms between m6A modification and the metabolic, hypoxia, inflammatory, and immune microenvironments of CRC. Furthermore, we summarize the therapeutic role that m6A modification can play in the CRC microenvironment, and discuss the current status, limitations, and potential future directions in this field. This review aims to provide new insights into the molecular targets and theoretical foundations for the treatment of CRC.
The benefits of rehabilitation exercise in improving chronic traumatic encephalopathy: recent advances and future perspectives
Authors: Huang Yin-qiong , Wu Zhe , Lin Shu , Chen Xiang-rong
Published: September 2023

Traumatic encephalopathy syndrome (TES) is used to describe the clinical manifestations of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). However, effective treatment and prevention strategies are lacking. Increasing evidence has shown that rehabilitation training could prevent cognitive decline, enhance brain plasticity, and effectively improve neurological function in neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, the mechanisms involved in the effects of rehabilitation exercise therapy on the prognosis of CTE are worth exploring. The aim of this article is to review the pathogenesis of CTE and provide a potential clinical intervention strategy for CTE.
Comprehensive analysis on the regulation of differentially expressed of mRNA and ncRNA in different ovarian stages of ark shell Scapharca broughtonii
Authors: Wang Wenjing , Wu Biao , Liu Zhihong , Sun Xiujun , Zhou Liqing , Xu Wandong , Yu Tao , Zheng Yanxin , Zhang Shihao
Published: September 2023

Background

Ovarian development is an important prerequisite and basis for animal reproduction. In many vertebrates, it is regulated by multiple genes and influenced by sex steroid hormones and environmental factors. However, relative information is limited in shellfish. To explore the biological functions and molecular mechanisms of mRNA and non-coding RNA that regulate ovarian development in Scapharca broughtonii, we performed whole transcriptome sequencing analysis on ovaries at three developmental stages. Furthermore, the biological processes involved in the differential expression of mRNA and ncRNA were analyzed.

Results

A total of 11,342 mRNAs, 6897 lncRNAs, 135 circRNAs, and 275 miRNAs were differentially expressed. By mapping the differentially expressed RNAs from the three developmental stages of Venn diagram, multiple groups of shared mRNAs and lncRNAs were found to be associated with ovarian development, with some mRNA and ncRNA functions associated with steroid hormone. In addition, we constructed and visualized the lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network based on ceRNA targeting relationships.

Conclusions

These findings may facilitate our further understanding the mRNA and ncRNAs roles in the regulation of shellfish reproduction.
Prediction of episode of hemodynamic instability using an electrocardiogram based analytic: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Benson Bryce , Belle Ashwin , Lee Sooin , Bassin Benjamin S. , Medlin Richard P. , Sjoding Michael W. , Ward Kevin R.
Published: September 2023

Background

Predicting the onset of hemodynamic instability before it occurs remains a sought-after goal in acute and critical care medicine. Technologies that allow for this may assist clinicians in preventing episodes of hemodynamic instability (EHI). We tested a novel noninvasive technology, the Analytic for Hemodynamic Instability-Predictive Indicator (AHI-PI), which analyzes a single lead of electrocardiogram (ECG) and extracts heart rate variability and morphologic waveform features to predict an EHI prior to its occurrence.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study at a quaternary care academic health system using data from hospitalized adult patients between August 2019 and April 2020 undergoing continuous ECG monitoring with intermittent noninvasive blood pressure (NIBP) or with continuous intraarterial pressure (IAP) monitoring.

Results

AHI-PI’s low and high-risk indications were compared with the presence of EHI in the future as indicated by vital signs (heart rate > 100 beats/min with a systolic blood pressure < 90 mmHg or a mean arterial blood pressure of < 70 mmHg). 4,633 patients were analyzed (3,961 undergoing NIBP monitoring, 672 with continuous IAP monitoring). 692 patients had an EHI (380 undergoing NIBP, 312 undergoing IAP). For IAP patients, the sensitivity and specificity of AHI-PI to predict EHI was 89.7% and 78.3% with a positive and negative predictive value of 33.7% and 98.4% respectively. For NIBP patients, AHI-PI had a sensitivity and specificity of 86.3% and 80.5% with a positive and negative predictive value of 11.7% and 99.5% respectively. Both groups performed with an AUC of 0.87. AHI-PI predicted EHI in both groups with a median lead time of 1.1 h (average lead time of 3.7 h for IAP group, 2.9 h for NIBP group).

Conclusions

AHI-PI predicted EHIs with high sensitivity and specificity and within clinically significant time windows that may allow for intervention. Performance was similar in patients undergoing NIBP and IAP monitoring.
Facilitators and barriers for tuberculosis preventive treatment among patients with latent tuberculosis infection: a qualitative study
Authors: Manoharan Anusha , Siti Nur Farhana H. , Manimaran K. , Khoo Ee Ming , Koh Wen Ming
Published: September 2023

Background

Various factors influence tuberculosis preventive treatment (TPT) decisions thus it is important to understand the health beliefs and concerns of patients before starting TPT to ensure treatment compliance. This study aims to explore facilitators and barriers for TPT among patients diagnosed with Latent Tuberculosis infection (LTBI) attending six primary healthcare clinics in Selangor, Malaysia.

Method

In-depth interviews were conducted face-to-face or via telephone among patients with a clinical diagnosis of LTBI using a semi-structured topic guide developed based on the common-sense model of self-regulation and literature review. Audio recordings of interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically.

Results

We conducted 26 In-depth interviews; Good knowledge of active tuberculosis (TB) and its associated complications, including the perceived seriousness and transmissibility of active TB, facilitates treatment. LTBI is viewed as a concern when immune status is compromised, thus fostering TPT. However, optimal health is a barrier for TPT. Owing to the lack of knowledge, patients rely on healthcare practitioners (HCPs) to determine their treatment paths. HCPs possessing comprehensive knowledge play a role in facilitating TPT whereas barriers to TPT encompass misinterpretation of tuberculin skin test (TST), inadequate explanation of TST, and apprehensions about potential medication side effects.

Conclusions

Knowledge of LTBI can influence TPT uptake and patients often entrust their HCPs for treatment decisions. Improving knowledge of LTBI both among patients and HCPs can lead to more effective doctor-patient consultation and consequently boost the acceptance of TPT. Quality assurance should be enhanced to ensure the effective usage of TST as a screening tool.