bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Nutritional and Bioactive Compound in Three Genotypes of Mashua (Tropaeolum tuberosum Ruiz and Pavón) from Different Agroecological Areas in Puno
Authors: Coloma Alejandro , Flores-Mamani Emilio , Quille-Calizaya German , Zaira-Churata Arturo , Apaza-Ticona Jorge , Calsina-Ponce Wilber César , Huata-Panca Percy , Inquilla-Mamani Juan , Huanca-Rojas Félix
Published: March 2022

Bioactive compounds and nutritional characterization in three genotypes of mashua tubers (Tropaeolum tuberosum Ruiz and Pavón) from different agroecological areas of the Peruvian highlands (3747 at 3888 meters above sea level) were studied. The studied genotypes from different agroecological areas significantly differed for vitamins, amino acids, and bioactive compounds. However, the nutritional characteristics of yellow, purple, and yellow-purple mashua remained unaffected. Its tubers were shown to be important sources of protein and fiber. The nutritional analysis revealed high phosphorus and potassium values, as well as considerable amounts of vitamin C. The amounts of total free amino acids in the genotypes ranged from2.73±0.450 mg/g dry matter (DM) to6.825±0.450 mg/g DM. Important total anthocyanins, total flavonoids, total phenolics, tannin content, and antioxidant activity values were obtained from purple genotype. Unexploited colored mashua tubers are proposed as a valuable natural source of phenolics and anthocyanins with high antioxidant activity.
Effects of Dietary Histidine Levels on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, and Expression of Related Genes of Juvenile Hybrid Grouper Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀×Epinephelus lanceolatus♂
Authors: Taj Sehrish , Ma Lei , Wu Xiaoyi , Ye Bo , Geng Lina , Zhou Zhiyu , Wang Xiao , Mu Wei
Published: March 2022

Histidine (His) is a ♀nutritionally significant amino acid and plays a key regulatory role in growth-related cellular functions. The present study was conducted to assess the effects of dietary His levels on hybrid grouper growth performance, feed utilization, and related gene expression. Seven isoenergetic, isoproteic, and isolipidic diets were made up to contain 6.9, 7.2, 8.6, 9.2, 10.7, 11.1, and 11.7 g/kg dietary His levels. The results revealed that protein productive value (PPV), feed efficiency (FE), and weight gain (WG) were increased with an increase in dietary His levels up to 10.7 g/kg. Based on the analysis of the second-order polynomial model, the optimal dietary His level for maximum PPV, WG, and FE was 9.24, 9.62, and 9.47 g/kg, respectively. The gut morphology was affected by various dietary His levels. Furthermore, dietary His levels can affect the relative mRNA levels of growth hormone receptor (GHR1) insulin-like growth factor1 (IGF1), the target of rapamycin (TOR), tumor necrosis factorα (TNF-α), and S6 kinase1 (S6K1). Dietary 9.2 g/kg His revealed a high level of Nrf2 expression in the head kidney. Generally, the optimal dietary His level for the best growth performance of hybrid grouper was found to be 9.62 g/kg dry matter or 21.08 g/kg dietary protein.
Quality Assessment of YouTube Contents regarding Hydroponic Technology
Authors: Chakma Kakon , Ruba Umama Begum , Hossain Anjuman , Era Tahsin Nusrat , Tahzin Tasfia , Akter Afroza , Monisha Hasinur Ferdous , Das Gowtam , Lima Farhana , Rahman Saidur
Published: March 2022

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to assess overall quality of the YouTube contents regarding hydroponic technology. Methods. On YouTube, the keyword “hydroponic technology” was searched, and 393 contents were identified. A total of 202 contents matched the inclusion requirements which were graded using a modified standard scoring scheme. A panel of six reviewers scored the contents utilizing a scoring scheme and evaluated likes, dislikes, views, and duration of the contents. Content was categorized based on quality, themes, publisher type, publisher country, and publishing year. To explore multiple comparisons, the Kruskal-Wallis test was applied (P<0.05considered as statistically significant). Findings. We observed that the significant portion of YouTube content on hydroponic technology was of poor quality (52.5%). A small portion of the evaluated content was of medium quality (32.2%), with the rest being of good quality (15.3%). Depending on quality, variables such as likes, views, and duration differed significantly. According to video demographics, the USA published most of the content, and 2020 was the peak year for content released. Majority of contents were produced by organizations with an emphasis on practical application. Conclusion. Despite the fact that YouTube contains a wide range of hydroponic technology content, the amount of good-quality content on YouTube is still insufficient. Originality/Value. This report summarizes the present scenario and sets standard content quality schemes that disclose the content quality debate regarding hydroponic technology. Furthermore, understanding viewing patterns will assist policymakers to disseminate hydroponic technology information effectively.
Building Security Mechanisms for Cross-Border Business Customer Data Analysis Based on Smart Computing
Authors: Li Yicai , Shi Lin
Published: March 2022

Dynamic social networks also suffer from privacy violation due to the continuous release of data. In order to defend against enemy attacks, a new dynamic privacy-preserving method is innovated, called Dynamic

k

w

Re-Structured Diversity Anonymity (

k

w

-SDA). This method limits the probability of disclosure of node/community identities to

1
/
k

when data are continuously published by protecting individuals in groups. The graph based on the previous

w
−
1

is released, missing some graph alterations. The advantage of the proposed method is to save many features of the network while protecting privacy efficiently and effectively.
Lay Health Workers in Community‐Based Care and Management of Dementia: A Qualitative ‘Pre’ and ‘Post’ Intervention Study in Southwestern Uganda
Authors: Karungi Christine K. , Wakida Edith K. , Rukundo Godfrey Z. , Talib Zohray M. , Haberer Jessica E. , Obua Celestino
Published: March 2022

Background. The global need for efficient and cost‐effective use of healthcare resources in low‐income countries has led to the introduction of lay health workers (LHWs) as a link of the community to healthcare services. As such, the LHWs perform a variety of tasks such as education, support for care delivery, and social support across all disease types. However, little is known about their ability to support dementia care and management in the community. Purpose. The goal of the pilot intervention was to evaluate the 5‐day training intervention for LHWs in rural southwestern Uganda in community‐based care and management of people with dementia, and implementation of the knowledge and skills gained. Methods. This was a “pre” and “post” pilot intervention study which involved a qualitative assessment of LHWs’ knowledge on community‐based management and care for people with dementia. We focused on four core competency domains in the WHO dementia toolkit. The intervention included a five‐day training of the LHWs on dementia care, eight weeks of implementation, and an evaluation of the experiences. Analysis focused on the needs assessment, early detection and management, community engagement, support for people with dementia; and evaluation of the eight weeks implementation. Results. Before the training, the LHWs did not know much about what dementia‐related support to provide in the community. Activities were limited to general support, including nutrition, and health education. After the training, LHWs had a basic understanding of dementia and began sensitizing the communities. They felt more comfortable working with people with dementia and reported a notable change in the attitude of family members. However, they reported challenges in differentiating the signs of early dementia from superstitious beliefs. Conclusion. With enhanced capacity, LHWs may be able to support community‐based management for people with dementia. A larger study is needed to explore potential roles for LHWs and further assess effectiveness of the LHWs’ skills.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 and Blood Safety: An Updated Review
Authors: Kiely Philip , Hoad Veronica C. , Seed Clive R. , Gosbell Iain B.
Published: March 2022

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a novel human coronavirus first identified in late 2019 and subsequently declared a worldwide pandemic in March 2020. In this review, we provide an overview of the implications of SARS-CoV-2 for blood safety and sufficiency. Summary: Approximately one-third of SARS-CoV-2 infections are asymptomatic. The reported mean incubation period typically varies from 2 to 11 days, but longer periods up to 22 days have been reported. The blood phase of SARS-CoV-2 appears to be brief and low level, with RNAaemia detectable in only a small proportion of patients, typically associated with more severe disease and not demonstrated to be infectious virus. A small number of presymptomatic and asymptomatic blood phase cases have been reported. Transfusion-transmission (TT) of SARS-CoV-2 has not been reported. Therefore, the TT risk associated with SARS-CoV-2 is currently theoretical. To mitigate any potential TT risk, but more importantly to prevent respiratory transmission in donor centers, blood services can implement donor deferral policies based on travel, disease status, or potential risk of exposure and encourage staff vaccination. Key Messages: The TT risk of SARS-CoV-2 appears to be low. The biggest risk to blood services in the current COVID-19 pandemic is to maintain the sufficiency of the blood supply while minimizing respiratory transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to donors and staff while donating blood.
Cochlear Implant Complications in a Tertiary Referral Center in Istanbul
Authors: Ozdemir Ozan , Yigit Ozgur , Can Efe , Kalaycik Ertugay Cigdem
Published: March 2022

Objective: All surgeons should inform the patients about complications and also their clinic’s complication rates of cochlear implantation (CI). We aimed to review the complications of CI in 1,148 pediatric and adult patients. Methods: It is a retrospective case review study enrolled in a tertiary referral center in Istanbul where CI was mostly performed. A total of 1,148 pediatric and adult CIs (unilateral or bilateral CI and revision surgery) performed by the same experienced surgeon in our institution were examined. Complications were noted as major and minor. Results: The mean age of first CI of 702 children and 157 adult patients was 10.2 years (1–75 years). The overall complication rate was 13.68%, comprising 8.28% of minor and 5.4% of major complications. Swelling (wound seroma or hematoma) was the most common minor complication. The most common cause of major complications was related to implanted devices. Despite the high rates of minor complications in children, there was no statistically significant difference between children and adults (p = 0,194). Conclusions: Our clinic has a low major complication rate. Surgeons should be aware of postoperative complications, apply appropriate procedures, and inform patients about their surgical complication rates.
Drug Testing for Chronic Kidney Disease and Diabetes in Animals versus Humans: A Comparative Analysis of Study Designs and Reporting Qualities
Authors: Könn Valentin , Motrapu Manga , Świderska Monika Katarzyna , Anders Hans-Joachim
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Diabetes is a highly prevalent accelerator or even cause of chronic kidney disease imposing a large unmet medical need at the global scale. Massive research activities continue to be in search of a cure but the yield of the classical bench-to-bedside research approach has been low. We speculated that a significant mismatch in design and quality of animal and clinical studies in this domain is a hurdle for translation. Methods: We performed a meta-analysis of matched pairs of animal and human studies that tested the efficacy of distinct drug interventions for diabetic kidney disease (DKD). We reviewed study designs and reporting quality of such studies over the last decade according to the standards listed in the CONSORT and ARRIVE recommendations, respectively. Results: We noted a wide diversity in the study designs of animal studies in terms of diabetes induction. Major mismatches with the respective human studies referred to age and sex distribution, comorbidities, stage of the kidney disease, and selection of primary endpoints. Usually, treatment was initiated before onset of kidney disease without any standard of care as a background therapy. The reporting quality of animal studies was poor for randomization procedures, blinding, sample size calculation for a prespecified primary endpoint or the safety analysis. Reporting quality of clinical studies had deficits in trial design-, recruitment-, allocation-, and outcome-related aspects. Conclusion: Bench-to-bedside translation in the domain of DKD suffers from major deficits in the design of experimental studies in view of the projected clinical trials as well as from significant deficits in the reporting quality in preclinical and clinical studies.
Neurogenetic Heterochrony in Chick, Lizard, and Rat Mapped with Wholemount Acetylcholinesterase and the Prosomeric Model
Authors: Amat José A. , Martínez-de-la-Torre Margaret , Trujillo Carmen María , Fernández Bárbara , Puelles Luis
Published: March 2022

In the developing brain, the phenomenon of neurogenesis is manifested heterotopically, that is, much the same neurogenetic steps occur at different places with a different timetable. This is due apparently to early molecular regionalization of the neural tube wall in the anteroposterior and dorsoventral dimensions, in a checkerboard pattern of more or less deformed quadrangular histogenetic areas. Their respective fate is apparently specified by a locally specific combination of active/repressed genes known as “molecular profile.” This leads to position-dependent differential control of proliferation, neurogenesis, differentiation, and other aspects, eventually in a heterochronic manner across adjacent areal units with sufficiently different molecular profiles. It is not known how fixed these heterochronic patterns are. We reexamined here comparatively early patterns of forebrain and hindbrain neurogenesis in a lizard (Lacerta gallotia galloti), a bird (the chick), and a mammal (the rat), as demonstrated by activation of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). This is an early marker of postmitotic neurons, which leaves unlabeled the neuroepithelial ventricular cells, so that we can examine cleared wholemounts of the reacted brains to have a birds-eye view of the emergent neuronal pattern at each stage. There is overall heterochrony between the basal and alar plates of the brain, a known fact, but, remarkably, heterochrony occurs even within the precocious basal plate among its final anteroposterior neuromeric subdivisions and their internal microzonal subdivisions. Some neuromeric units or microzones are precocious, while others follow suit without any specific spatial order or gradient; other similar neuromeric units remain retarded in the midst of quite advanced neighbors, though they do produce similar neurogenetic patterns at later stages. It was found that some details of such neuromeric heterochrony are species-specific, possibly related to differential morphogenetic properties. Given the molecular causal underpinning of the updated prosomeric model used here for interpretation, we comment on the close correlation between some genetic patterns and the observed AChE differentiation patterns.
Signaler’s Vasotocin Alters the Relationship between the Responder’s Forebrain Catecholamines and Communication Behavior in Lizards (Anolis carolinensis)
Authors: Campos Stephanie M. , Erley Anastasia , Ashraf Zoha , Wilczynski Walter
Published: March 2022

Dynamic fluctuations in the distribution of catecholamines across the brain modulate the responsiveness of vertebrates to social stimuli. Previous work demonstrates that green anoles (Anolis carolinensis) increase chemosensory behavior in response to males treated with exogenous arginine vasotocin (AVT), but the neurochemical mechanisms underlying this behavioral shift remains unclear. Since central catecholamine systems, including dopamine, rapidly activate in response to social stimuli, we tested whether exogenous AVT in signalers (stimulus animals) impacts catecholamine concentrations in the forebrain (where olfactory and visual information are integrated and processed) of untreated lizard responders. We also tested whether AVT influences the relationship between forebrain catecholamine concentrations and communication behavior in untreated receivers. We measured global catecholamine (dopamine = DA, epinephrine = Epi, and norepinephrine = NE) concentrations in the forebrain of untreated responders using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry following either a 30-min social interaction with a stimulus male or a period of social isolation. Stimulus males were injected with exogenous AVT or vehicle saline (SAL). We found that global DA, but not Epi or NE, concentrations were elevated in lizards responding to SAL-males relative to isolated lizards. Lizards interacting with AVT-males had DA, Epi and NE concentrations that were not significantly different from SAL or isolated groups. For behavior, we found a significant effect of social treatment (AVT vs. SAL) on the relationships between (1) DA concentrations and the motivation to perform a chemical display (latency to tongue flick) and (2) Epi concentrations and time spent displaying mostly green body coloration. We also found a significant negative correlation between DA concentrations and the latency to perform a visual display but found no effect of social treatment on this relationship. These data suggest that catecholamine concentrations in the forebrain of untreated responders are associated with chemical and visual communication in lizards and that signaler AVT alters this relationship for some, but not all, aspects of social communication.
Stroke and Risk of Mental Disorders Compared With Matched General Population and Myocardial Infarction Comparators
Authors: Skajaa Nils , Adelborg Kasper , Horváth-Puhó Erzsébet , Rothman Kenneth J. , Henderson Victor W. , Thygesen Lau Caspar , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: March 2022

Background:

Accurate estimates of risks of poststroke outcomes from large population–based studies can provide a basis for public health policy decisions. We examined the absolute and relative risks of a spectrum of incident mental disorders following ischemic stroke and intracerebral hemorrhage.

Methods:

During 2004 to 2018, we used Danish registries to identify patients (≥18 years and with no hospital history of mental disorders), with a first-time ischemic stroke (n=76 767) or intracerebral hemorrhage (n=9344), as well as age-,sex-, and calendar year–matched general population (n=464 840) and myocardial infarction (n=92 968) comparators. We computed risk differences, considering death a competing event, and hazard ratios adjusted for income, occupation, education, and history of cardiovascular and noncardiovascular comorbidity.

Results:

Compared with the general population, following ischemic stroke, the 1-year risk difference was 7.3% (95% CI, 7.0–7.5) for mood disorders (driven by depression), 1.4% (95% CI, 1.3–1.5) for organic brain disorders (driven by dementia and delirium), 0.8% (95% CI, 0.7–0.8) for substance abuse disorders (driven by alcohol and tobacco abuse), and 0.5% (95% CI, 0.4–0.5) for neurotic disorders (driven by anxiety and stress disorders). For suicide, risk differences were near null. Hazard ratios were particularly elevated in the first year of follow-up, ranging from a 2- to a 4-fold increased hazard, decreasing thereafter. Compared with myocardial infarction patients, the 1-year risk difference was 4.9% (95% CI, 4.6 to 5.3) for mood disorders, 1.0% (95% CI, 0.8 to 1.1) for organic brain disorders, 0.1% (95% CI, 0.0 to 0.2) for substance abuse disorders, but −0.2% (95% CI, −0.2 to −0.1) for neurotic disorders. Hazard ratios during the first year of follow-up were elevated 1.1- to 1.8-fold for mood, organic brain, and neurotic disorders, while decreased 0.8-fold for neurotic disorders.

Conclusions:

The considerably greater risks of mental disorders following a stroke, particularly mood disorders, underline the importance of mental health evaluation after stroke.
The Gospel According to Ah Meng: Conservation, Celebrity, and the Singapore Story
Authors: Huggan Graham , Perks Samuel
Published: March 2022

This essay reflects on the story of probably the world’s most famous captive orangutan, Ah Meng, who died in 2008 but has since been “replaced” by her granddaughter, Ishta, who took over as the “new face” of Singapore Zoo in 2016. Ah Meng’s story is interesting for what it conceals and what it reveals, including the recent history of wildlife trafficking in Southeast Asia, for which Singapore – despite its conservationist credentials – acts as an important hub. Ah Meng’s rescue and rehabilitation also raises interesting questions about the Singapore Story, the popular name given to the heroic narrative of historical survival and economic development associated with Singapore’s ruling party, the PAP (People’s Action Party), and especially its former leader, Lee Kuan Yew. This essay considers the extent to which Ah Meng is more than just a national ambassador animal or a global conservation icon, but is also a multifaceted figure for Singapore’s progress in an unevenly developed capitalist world order in which it insists on playing a leading part.
Utility of epi-illumination light microscopy for wood identification
Authors: Lee Jiyoung , Chung Youn-Jib , Kwon Ohkyung
Published: March 2022

Wood identification is a crucial step to verify claims of the legality of wood and wood-derived products for compliance with the laws against illegal logging. For accurate determination of wood species, transmitted light microscopy has been utilized to identify microscopic features of wood from microscopic slides with thin sections from the transverse, radial, and tangential planes. When there are many woods in trading for identification, producing microscopic or permanent slides can be problematic because the production of the slides is time-consuming and slows down wood identification. However, the slides are not required for alternative microscopy such as epi-illumination light microscopy. In this study, we suggest the utilization of epi-illumination light microscopy as an alternative method to conventional transmitted light microscopy with microscopic slides for wood identification. We investigated the performance of selected epi-illumination light microscopic techniques: brightfield reflected light microscopy with a polarizer (RLBF), darkfield reflected light microscopy (RLDF), and fluorescence light microscopy by observing intervessel pits and vessel-ray pits. Among the selected epi-illumination light microscopy, brightfield reflected light microscopy with a polarizer produced images with small details and high contrast. Since sample preparation for reflected light microscopy can be minimized, we can accelerate the wood identification process without sacrificing accuracy. We confirmed that reflected light microscopy has sufficient performance with simple sample preparation comparable to transmitted light microscopy.
Three New Species of Cnemaspis (Sauria: Gekkonidae) from Sarawak, East Malaysia, Borneo
Authors: NASHRIQ IZNEIL , DAVIS HAYDEN R. , BAUER AARON M. , DAS INDRANEIL
Published: March 2022

Three new species of Cnemaspis are described from karst regions of Sarawak, Malaysia, on the island of Borneo. These are Cnemaspis matahari sp. nov. and C. sirehensis sp. nov. from limestone hills located in the Serian Division of western Sarawak, and C. lagang sp. nov. from Gunung Mulu, Miri Division, in northern Sarawak. All can be distinguished from congeners using mitochondrial DNA as well as an enlarged metatarsal scales on the first toe. Individually, each species can be diagnosed by differences in subcaudal scale morphology: Cnemaspis lagang sp. nov. lacks enlarged subcaudals; Cnemaspis matahari sp. nov. has keeled subcaudals bearing an enlarged median row of smooth scales; and Cnemaspis sirehensis sp. nov. has an enlarged median row of weakly keeled scales. The discovery of these species suggests that additional unrecognized species may exist within the genus on Borneo, especially in association with karst formations. High endemism and species diversity notwithstanding, these karst formations are under severe pressure from limestone extraction and deforestation.
Diastatotropis arofaniana sp. nov. from eastern Madagascar, a new species close to D. rubra Frieser, with a redescription of the type of the latter, and notes on morphology (Coleoptera: Anthribidae)
Authors: TRÝZNA MILOŠ , BAŇAŘ PETR
Published: March 2022

Diastatotropis arofaniana Trýzna & Baňař sp. nov. (Anthribidae: Anthribinae: incertae sedis) is described as new from eastern Madagascar. Male and female genitalia are studied and illustrated, and colour photographs are provided. The new species is morphologically similar to D. rubra Frieser, 1992. A redescription of the female holotype of D. rubra, with the first illustrations of its habitus and genitalia are presented. Ecological notes, including colour photographs of the habitat of the new species, are provided. The curculionid type of hemisternites without toothed plates found in Diastatotropis is also discussed.
Taxonomic study of the genus Gammarus (Amphipoda, Gammaridae) from Xinjiang, China, with description of a new species
Authors: TONG YAN , WANG XIAOKUN , LIU FENGSONG , LI SHUQIANG , HOU ZHONGE
Published: March 2022

A new species, Gammarus hoboksar Hou, sp. nov., is described from the Irtysh River basin of Xinjiang, China. The species differs morphologically from its congeners by calceoli of antenna II absent; merus and carpus of pereopods III–IV with short setae; inner ramus of uropod III about 0.79 times the length of outer ramus, terminal article of outer ramus about 0.24 times the length of first article; telson cleft, with spines and setae on surface and three spines on distal end. Phylogenetic analysis based on 28S rRNA and COI gene sequences supported the species distinctness. A key to the genus Gammarus with nine species and a map of their distributions are provided.
MiR-449b-5p Regulates the Proliferation and Migration of Cervical Cancer Cells by Targeting Forkhead Box Protein P1 (FOXP1)
Authors: Chen Meili , Chen Yu , Jiang Lijuan
Published: March 2022

This study intends to assess miR-449b-5p’s effect on cervical cancer (CC) cells and its mechanism. After transfection of miR-449b-5p mimics, inhibitor, si-Foxp1 and negative control, CC cell viability was analyzed by MTT along with analysis of migration and invasion by transwell
and scratch test, and Foxp1 protein level by Western blot. CC cells presented a significantly higher miR-449b-5p level and lower Foxp1 level in relative to normal cervical cells. miR-449b-5p mimic transfection significantly promoted CC cell viability, migration and invasion and decreased Foxp1
expression. However, all the above changes were significantly reversed after treatment with si-Foxp1. In conclusion, miR-449b-5p level is elevated in CC cells and its overexpression promotes the biological behaviors of CC cells possibly through targeting Foxp1, indicating that it might be
a new target for the treatment of CC.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSC)-Upregulated miR-139 Inhibited the Migration and Invasion of Breast Cancer Cells In Vitro
Authors: Shen Liandi , Niu Mengdi , Lu Yangyong , Cao Weihong , Gao Xueqiang
Published: March 2022

microRNAs exert a crucial impact on tumor biology. However, the biological effect of miR-139 on breast cancer cells remains unclear yet. Here we intend to clarify the effect and mechanism of miR-139 derived from BMSCs on the biological behavior of gastric cancer cells. Breast cancer
cells were divided into BMSC group (mixed culture of BMSC and breast cancer cells 1:1), miR-139 mimics group, si-PXN group and control group followed by analysis of miR-139 level, cell activity by MTT assay and the targeted binding of miR-139 to PXN by luciferase reporter assay. In relative
to control, miR-139 level was significantly declined in gastric cancer cells, while PXN level was elevated and associated with the prognosis. miR-139 was up-regulated by BMSCs or miR-139 mimics, thereby regulating EMT process through targeted inhibition of PCN, and ultimately inhibiting the
activity of breast cancer cells. In conclusion, BMSC co-culture can inhibit PCN by up-regulating miR-139, thereby regulating EMT process and inhibiting breast cancer progression, implying that miR-139 and PXN could be used as therapeutic targets for metastatic breast cancer.
Co-Culture of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Regulates the Fibrotic Response of Endometrial Stromal Cells
Authors: Yiliyasi Yilinuer , Wusainahong Kunduozi , An Liping , Liu Qinghua , Fan ZeLing , Fan JunHua
Published: March 2022

This study explored the protective effects and mechanisms of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on the fibrotic response of endometrial stromal cells. The endometrial cells were isolated from intrauterine adhesions (IUA) patients and assigned into control group, TGF-β1
group, BMSC group which was co-cultured with BMSCs in presence of TGF-β1; Exo group (treated with BMSCs-originated exosomes); Exo-inhibitor group (treated with exosome-specific inhibitors) followed by analysis of α-SMA and Vimentin level, cell viability and expression
of TGFBR2, TGFβ-1, Fibronectin (FN), α-SMA, Collagen 1α1 (Col1a1), Smad2/3 and p-Smad2/3. After TGF-β1 treatment, cells exhibited higher expression of p-Smad2/3, TGFBR2, FN, TGF-SMA and COL1A1 along with reduced cell proliferation. However,
BMSCs-originated exosomes or co-culture with BMSCs reversed these changes which could be inverted by exosome-specific inhibitors. In conclusion, BMSCs-originated exosomes and BMSCs exerted an anti-fibrosis effect, which was possibly through regulation of TGFβ1/Smad2/Smad3 signalling
pathway in endometrial stromal cells.
Synthesis and Characterization of Molybdenum Oxide Nanoparticles by Green Method Useful in Antifungal Applications Against Colletotrichum Gloeosporioides
Authors: Sreevani K. , Anierudhe V. V.
Published: March 2022

In the present study, the synthesis of molybdenum oxide nanoparticles is done by the reduction of Ammonium molybdate with the extract from the leaves of Citrus sinensis. The optical studies like Fourier Transform Infrared studies and UV-vis-NIR gives insight on the details of presence
of functional groups and absorption of light. The X ray diffraction studies reveal its crystallinity and its particle size have been calculated. The zeta potential, which is used to characterize the metal nanoparticles, has been studied. The antifungal property of the nanoparticles has been
studied and a plot for disease index has been discussed. This natural method of synthesizing the molybdenum oxide nanoparticles can find numerous applications in biophysics.
Research on Mechanism of Nanometer Colloidal Particles of Prostate Specific Membrane Aptamer A10 (PSMA-a10)/TGX221 in Restraining the Transplantation Tumor of Rats with Prostate Cancer (PCa)
Authors: Zhang Meiyu , Ming Xiuxi , Zhang Yanbing
Published: March 2022

This study assesses the effect of nanometer colloidal particles of PSMA-a10/TGX22 1 on the transplantation tumor of rats with prostate cancer (PCa). 26 rats with PCa were divided into PPG group, exposed TGX221 group and nanometer TGX221 group followed by analysis of the growth of transplantation
tumor, cell apoptotic rate by flow cytometry, and the expression of p110β and Bcl-2 by RT-PCR and Western Blot. Nanometer TGX221 group and exposed TGX221 group showed smaller tumor volume than in PPG group on day 13 after intervention with significant difference of tumor volume
between nanometer TGX221 group and exposed TGX221 group on day 7. The inhibiting rate of tumor growth in exposed TGX221 group was less than that in nanometer TGX221 group. However, nanometer TGX221 group presented higher apoptotic rate than other two groups. The level of p110β
and Bcl-2 in nanometer TGX221 group was declined gradually with significant differences compared to other two groups. In conclusion, the nanometer colloidal particles of PSMA-a10/TGX221 have promising tumor-targeted specificity possibly through inhibition of Bcl-2 and the activity of p110β,
leading to restrained PCa growth.
Angiogenesis Inhibitor ZM 306416 Reduces Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Mice Induced by High-Fat Diet
Authors: Wang Miaojuan , Zhou Xiajuan , Jiang Zhenghao , Wang Jingyuan
Published: March 2022

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) causes countless burden to people worldwide, especially when the quality of people’s life is improved constantly. It has clinical significance to find novel methods to deal with this common disease. Here, we aimed to assess whether angiogenesis
inhibitor ZM306416 could improve NAFLD. Mice were fed with different diets for 15 weeks and treated with ZM306416 followed by analysis of weight and inflammatory infiltration of adipose tissue, fatty degeneration, and fibrosis by immunohistochemistry, fibrosis-related proteins level by qRT-PCR.
Compared to control group, ZM306416 treatment significantly declined mice weight and adipose tissue weight. In addition, ZM306416 decreased blood vessel density of adipose tissues, mitigated inflammatory infiltration, fatty degeneration, and fibrosis. Moreover, ZM304616 alleviated adipose
fibrosis-related protein expression, and transcription of inflammatory genes and adipogenesis genes. However, the inhibitor enhanced β-oxidation of fatty acid, Nrf2, and SOD2, while decreased serum markers of liver injury. In conclsuion, angiogenesis inhibitor ZM306416 attenuates
adipose fibrosis and degradation, promotes adipose functions and lipid metabolism, thereby alleviating obesity-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver.
Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (bFGF)-Overexpressed Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) Orchestrate Lung Cancer Development and Fibroblast Growth
Authors: Yang Weidong , Li Lei , Jia Jiangtao , Wang Zhibao , Zang Hanqing
Published: March 2022

Lung cancer is one of most common cancer with a complicated pathogenesis and a poor prognosis. This study aimed to investigate the role of bFGF and BMSCs in lung cancer progression. BMSCs were transfected with bFGF mimic or NC and then co-cultured with lung cancer cells followed by
measuring cell migration by Transwell assay and proliferation by CCK-8 assay, expression of bFGF, E-cadherin, and Vimentin by RT-qPCR and Western blot. The BMSCs were positive for CD90, CD71, CD29 and CD45. Overexpression of bFGF in BMSCs resulted in increased lung cancer cell proliferation
at 24 h, 48 h and 72 h. Meanwhile, bFGF overexpression also significantly promoted cell migration and invasion as well as upregulated bFGF (4.03±0.36 ng/μl) and E-cadherin (3.64±0.27 ng/μl) and downregulated Vimentin (1.45±0.19 ng/μl). In
conclusion, co-culture of BMSCs overexpressing bFGF and lung cancer cells enhances BMSCs differentiation and promotes cancer cell development possibly through regulation of E-cadherin and Vimentin expression, indicating that this might be a novel approach for the treatment of lung cancer.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Exosomes (BMSC-ExO) Promote Osteogenic Differentiation In Vitro and Osteogenesis In Vivo by Regulating miR-318/Runt-Related Transcription Factor 2 (RUNX2)
Authors: Wang Xiufeng , Fu Lin , Sun Ruixue , Zhang Cuilin , Zhang Yanling
Published: March 2022

Primary osteoporosis (PMOP) is characterized by bone mass reduction and bone microstructure destruction, increased bone fragility and prone to fracture, which is partially caused by ovarian dysfunction and decreased estrogen content. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell exosomes (BMSC-ExO)
can improve PMOP. In this study, BMSC-EXO was used to study the role and function of miR-318 and Runx2 in PMOP. Human osteogenitor cells were isolated from PMOP patients with primary osteoporosis. After BMSC-exo treatment, miR-318 and Runx 2 level was tested by RT-qPCR and Western blot. In
addition, mice in OVX group were treated with BMSC-ExO (bilateral ovaries were removed) to observe the effect of BMSC-ExO on bone tissue. Our results showed that BMSC-exo treatment significantly decreased miR-318 level, upregulated RUNX2 expression and increased ALP activity. In addition,
BMSC-exo administration ameliorated the declined bone mass and bone formation in osteoporotic femurs in OVX mice. In conclusion, BMSC-Exo enhances Runx2 levels by down-regulation of miR-318, thereby promoting osteogenic differentiation of osteogenitor cells, providing new potential therapeutic
targets for treating PMOP.
Them and us: a reply to Teofilo Pugeda
Authors: Loughlin Gerard
Published: March 2022

A response to the article ‘A reply to Gerard Loughlin’s “Catholic homophobia”’ by Teofilo Pugeda highlighting the dichotomy between the welcome and rejection of LGBT people within the Catholic Church.
Chronic venous disease, platelet and haemostatic abnormalities contribute to the pathogenesis of pigmented purpuric dermatoses
Authors: Parsi Kurosh , Kim Burcu , O’Connor Alicia A , Kadam Pooja , Connor David
Published: March 2022

Background

To investigate the aetiology of pigmented purpuric dermatoses (PPD).

Methods

63 patients with a provisional diagnosis of PPD were assessed. Skin biopsies were performed to confirm the clinical diagnosis. Haemostasis was assessed using platelet function analyser-100 (PFA-100), light transmission aggregometry (LTA), impedance aggregometry (Multiplate) and measurement of clotting times and clotting factors. Chronic venous disease (CVD) was assessed by duplex ultrasound. When not contraindicated, patients were advised to discontinue haemostatic-modifying drugs or supplements for 4 weeks after which the laboratory measurements were repeated and the clinical resolution of PPD was assessed. Subsequently, a cohort of patients identified with CVD underwent endovenous interventions and further resolution of PPD was assessed.

Results

CVD was found in 48 patients (76.2%) while haemostatic abnormalities were found in 36 (57.1%). 30 patients (47.6%) had concurrent CVD and haemostatic abnormalities. Modifiable risk factors such as the intake of platelet inhibitors or other drugs and supplements such as fish oil were identified in 53 patients (84.1%). These could be ceased in 35 patients of whom 28 (80.0%) achieved either complete or partial resolution of PPD. Treatment of the underlying CVD was performed in 18 patients resulting in complete or partial resolution in 17 (94.4%). In seven patients (11.1%), no CVD or haemostatic abnormalities were identified, and the risk factors included dietary factors such as excessive caffeine or soft drink consumption.

Conclusion

Haemostatic abnormalities and CVD contribute to the pathogenesis of PPD. Resolution of PPD in the vast majority of patients may be achieved by cessation of modifiable risk factors and in particular platelet-modifying drugs or supplements and treatment of the underlying venous disease.
Improved porosity of electrospun poly (Lactic-Co-Glycolic) scaffolds by sacrificial microparticles enhances cellular infiltration compared to sacrificial microfiber
Authors: Hodge Jacob G , Quint Clay
Published: March 2022

Electrospinning is a technique used to fabricate nano-/microfiber scaffolds for tissue engineering applications. However, a major limitation of electrospun scaffolds is the high packing density of fibers that leads to poor cellular infiltration. Thus, incorporation of a water soluble sacrificial porogen, polyethylene oxide (PEO), was utilized to fine-tune the porous fraction of the scaffolds and decrease fiber packing density. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) scaffolds were either co-electrospun with sacrificial PEO microfibers or co-electrosprayed with sacrificial PEO microparticles at three different extrusion rates to control the relative morphology and dose of PEO. A dose-dependent response in PLGA scaffold bulk porosity and pore area was noted as PEO content was increased. Notably, PLGA scaffolds after removal of sacrificial PEO microparticles significantly increased the porous fraction and pore area approximately 8, 10, and 14% and 46, 20, and 33 μm2, respectively, relative to the analogous PEO microfiber scaffold. The tensile properties of the more porous PLGA scaffolds after PEO microparticle removal, remained stable for all extrusion rates of PEO tested, relative to the PLGA scaffolds after PEO microfiber removal. Histological analysis revealed that removal of PEO microparticles significantly increased the depth of cellular migration through the PLGA scaffolds, relative to PEO microfiber scaffolds, with maximum migratory depths of 1120 μm versus 150 μm over 28 days, respectively. Additionally, depth of cellular infiltration responded dose-dependently in the PEO microparticle scaffolds, whereas in the PEO microfiber scaffolds there was no correlation. Further analysis with Masson’s Trichrome staining and electron microscopy revealed that collagen density and depth of deposition substantially increased in PLGA scaffolds after removal of PEO microparticles relative to PEO microfibers. Thus, this study demonstrates an effective strategy to control the porous fraction of electrospun scaffolds via the incorporation of sacrificial PEO microparticles, without significant decreases in mechanical properties, thereby enhancing cellular infiltration and subsequent extracellular matrix deposition.
Load distribution analysis considering corner contact effects to predict the mechanical efficiency of spur gears
Authors: Wang Qin , Wang Qi , Gui Liangjin , Fan Zijie
Published: March 2022

High efficiency is the basic design objective of any gear transmission system. Thus, it is necessary to predict the mechanical efficiency of gear pairs. The purpose of this study was to construct and demonstrate a prediction method based on a frictional loaded tooth contact analysis, which computes the load distribution between tooth surfaces by considering corner contact effects for the mechanical efficiency of spur gears. The load distribution and mechanical efficiency derived by the proposed method were verified against those obtained by using the finite element method. The corner contact effects were found to influence the load distribution and mechanical efficiency. A parametric analysis, to determine the influence of the input angular velocity, load torque, gear surface roughness, and lubricating oil viscosity on the load distribution and mechanical efficiency was performed. The results of the proposed method can be used to effectively improve the prediction accuracy and efficiency of gear transmission system efficiency.
Racial Demographics Explain the Link Between Racial Disparities in Traffic Stops and County-Level Racial Attitudes
Authors: Ekstrom Pierce D. , Le Forestier Joel M. , Lai Calvin K.
Published: March 2022

Disparities in the treatment of Black and White Americans in police stops are pernicious and widespread. We examined racial disparities in police traffic stops by leveraging data on hundreds of U.S. counties from the Stanford Open Policing Project and corresponding county-level data on implicit and explicit racial attitudes from the Project Implicit research website. We found that Black–White traffic-stop disparities are associated with county-level implicit and explicit racial attitudes and that this association is attributable to racial demographics: Counties with a higher proportion of White residents had larger racial disparities in police traffic stops. We also examined racial disparities in several poststop outcomes (e.g., arrest rates) and found that they were not systematically related to racial attitudes, despite evidence of disparities. These findings indicate that racial disparities in counties’ traffic stops are reliably linked to counties’ racial attitudes and demographic compositions.
Transendocardial CD34+ Cell Therapy Improves Local Mechanical Dyssynchrony in Patients With Nonischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Žorž Neža , Poglajen Gregor , Frljak Sabina , Knezevič Ivan , Vrtovec Bojan
Published: March 2022

We investigated the effects of cell therapy on local mechanical dyssynchrony (LMD) in patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NICM). We analyzed electromechanical data of 30 NICM patients undergoing CD34+ cell transplantation. All patients underwent bone marrow stimulation; CD34+ cells were collected by apheresis and injected transendocardially. At baseline and at 6 months after therapy, we performed electromechanical mapping and measured unipolar voltage (UV) and LMD at cell injection sites. LMD was defined as a temporal difference between global and segmental peak systolic displacement normalized to the average duration of the RR interval. Favorable clinical response was defined as increase in the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥5% between baseline and 6 months. Using paired electromechanical point-by-point analysis, we were able to identify 233 sites of CD34+ cell injections in 30 patients. We found no overall differences in local UV between baseline and 6 months (10.7 ± 4.1 mV vs 10.0 ± 3.6 mV, P = 0.42). In contrast, LMD decreased significantly (17 ± 17% at baseline vs 13 ± 12% at 6 months, P = 0.00007). Favorable clinical response at 6 months was found in 19 (63%) patients (group A), and 11 (37%) patients did not respond to cell therapy (group B). At baseline, the two groups did not differ in age, gender, LVEF, or N terminal-pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels. Similarly, we found no differences in baseline UV (9.5 ± 2.9 mV in group A vs 8.6 ± 2.4 mV in group B, P = 0.41) or LMD at cell injection sites (17 ± 19% vs 16 ± 14%, P = 0.64). In contrast, at 6 months, we found higher UV in group A (10.0 ± 3.1 mV vs 7.4 ± 1.9 mV in group B, P = 0.04). Furthermore, when compared with group B, patients in group A displayed a significantly lower LMD (11 ± 12% vs 16 ± 10%, P = 0.002). Thus, it appears that favorable clinical effects of cell therapy in NICM patients may be associated with a decrease of LMD at cell injection sites.
Three-dimensional dynamic modeling and simulation of a multi-cable winding hoister system considering bidirectional coupling between cage and flexible guides
Authors: Pi Yangjun , Zhang Jian , Tang Xiaobin , Zhu Jiahao
Published: March 2022

A comprehensive three-dimensional dynamic model of a multi-cable double-drum winding hoister with flexible guides is presented, as the existing models cannot deal with the three-dimensional eccentricity of the cage and out-of-plane excitation generated by rotational drums. The entire system consists of three subsystems: cable subsystem, cage subsystem, and guide subsystem, respectively. Displacement and force boundary conditions are employed to couple those subsystems, and the interaction between cage and guides is considered as bidirectional coupling. The dynamic models of the three subsystems are established by Hamilton principle and Newton-Euler equation in a three-dimensional space independently. The dynamic model is discretized and solved by the Galerkin method and Runge–Kutta method. The three-dimensional displacement excitations and three-dimensional eccentricity can be handled in this dynamic model. The differences between two-dimensional dynamic model and three-dimensional dynamic model are discussed and the mechanism of entire system vibration are also analyzed by numerical simulation with typical unbalance factors, the cage eccentricity. The results show that the proposed three-dimensional dynamic model is more accurate in some realistic cases, existing out-of-plane excitation or three-dimensional eccentricity of the cage.