bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CircHGS enhances the progression of bladder cancer by regulating the miR-513a-5p/VEGFC axis and activating the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Zhu Yi , Xiong Hong , Zuo Ling , Li Shihao , Chen Ruiqi , Liu Hongwei
Published: June 2022

Background
Bladder cancer (BCa) is a malignant tumor that occurs in the bladder mucosa with high mortality. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), newly discovered noncoding RNAs, are associated with the occurrence and development of BCa. However, the effects of circRNAs in BCa have not been fully elucidated. Through the GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) database, an abnormally expressed circular RNA, circHGS (hsa_circ_0004721), was first identified in BCa. In this study, we clarified the roles and potential mechanism of circHGS in BCa progression.
Methods
The level of circHGS in tissue and cell was assessed by qRT-PCR. The proliferation, migration and invasion of BCa cells were detected by CCK8, colony formation assay, wound-healing assay, and Transwell assays, respectively. The interaction between circHGS/VEGFC and miR-513a-5p was detected by dual luciferase and qRT-PCR. VEGFC protein level was detected by western blotting. Nude mouse xenograft model was used to clarify the role of circHGS in tumor growth in vivo.
Results
CircHGS, originating from the HGS gene, is upregulated in BCa tissues compared to normal tissues. Functionally, silencing of circHGS apparently suppressed BCa cell proliferation, migration and invasion, but circHGS overexpression showed the opposite result. In vivo experiments also suggested that knockdown of circHGS suppressed tumor growth. Mechanistically, circHGS functions as a sponge of miR-513a-5p to elevate VEGFC expression and activate the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, ultimately promoting BCa progression.
Conclusion
Our findings indicated that circHGS promotes BCa progression via the miR-513a-5p/VEGFC/AKT/mTOR pathway and can be a promising therapeutic target of BCa.
Genetic diversity and population structure of Ugandan soybean (Glycine max (L.) germplasm based on DArTseq
Authors: Lukanda Musondolya Mathe , Dramadri Isaac , Adjei Emmanuel Amponsah , Perpetua Arusei , Gitonga Hellen Wairimu , Wasswa Peter , Edema Richard , Ssemakula Mildred Ochwo , Tukamuhabwa Phinehas , Geoffrey Tusiime
Published: June 2022

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) is an important oil crop with production below the real need in Africa. To increase the production, substantial upgrading must be accomplished by enlarging the genetic potential of new cultivars that relays on the parents' genetic diversity. We aimed to assess the genetic diversity and the population structure of soybean accessions, therefore, evaluate soybean value in terms of use for breeding purposes. To accomplish this, a set of 282 soybean accessions were genotyped using the Diversity Array Technology Sequencing with a high throughput of the Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). A total of 6,935 high-quality SNPs were identified across the whole soybean genome. The mean value of genetic diversity, major alleles frequency, minor alleles frequency, expected heterozygosity, and the polymorphism information content was respectively estimated at 0.35, 0.77, 0.22, 0.33, and 0.29. The analysis of molecular variance reveals that the variance among the populations is lower than the variance within the populations. The soybean accessions could be classified into two groups based on the model-based population structure and the principal coordinate analysis or into three groups based on the discriminant analysis of the principal component and the Neighbor-joining tree. The information provided in this study will be helpful for breeders.
Rectification of Haematological Profile by Leaf Ethanolic Extracts of Carica papaya L. and Faidherbia albida (Del.) A. Chev to Treat Plasmodium berghei Malaria Infected Swiss Albino Mice
Authors: Babangida S. M. , Zakari SI , Nura S.
Published: June 2022

Background: Malaria remains the major cause of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria; the most densely populated country in the African continent. The current economic depression and rising cost of conventional drugs call for urgent alternative therapy. A study was carried out to investigate the effects of Carica papaya and Faidherbia albida leaf ethanolic extracts on haematological profiles of Swiss albino mice infected with Plasmodium berghei. Methods: Fresh leaves of the test plants were collected and air dried, milled into powder and extracted using soxhlet apparatus with ethanol as the solvent. Thirty Swiss albino mice of both sexes weighing between 140 and 260g were used for the work. The animals were acclimatized for fourteen (14) days and divided into five groups. The animals were inoculated intraperitoneally with infected blood suspension containing about 1x106 paracetamia of P. berghei. Animals in group 1 were administered 0.2 ml normal saline, those in group 5 were administered Chloroquine diphosphate at 5 mg/kg body weight while those in groups 2, 3 and 4 were administered 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg of the ethanolic leaf extract respectively. Suppressive test last for 4 days and toxicity of the extracts on the infected mice was monitored. Haematological profiles of the infected mice were studied before infection, during infection and after treatment periods and average paracetamia counts using standard methods. Data obtained were analysed using Analysis of Variance with Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test used to separate significant means at 5%%. Results: Significant differences (P≤0.05) in the values of PCV, RBCs and WBCs were observed among the treated groups. The extracts stimulate increase in the number of Lymphocytes, Neutrophils, Monocytes, Eosinophils and Basophils with increase in concentration. The high doses of the extracts significantly (P≤0.05) reduce the number of parasitized erythrocytes among infected mice treated with C. papaya showing the highest (75.04%) suppression. Conclusions: The antiplasmodial activity of the extracts could be attributed to the active constituents such as: Flavonoids, alkaloids, anthraquinones, tannins, saponins, terpenoids/steriods, diterpenoids and cardiac glycosides in the extracts. We therefore recommended 400 mg/kg of C. papaya extract against malarial infections.
Anti-apoptotic effect of memantine in a rat hippocampal cell model of Alzheimer's disease: morphology and cellular mechanism
Authors: Hashemi Mansoureh , Roohi-Azizi Mahtab , Hashemi Firouzeh
Published: June 2022

Objective: Memantine as a blocker of NMDA channels is administrated to patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Amyloid beta protein (Aβ) play important role in the progression of Alzheimer's disease. There is evidence that memantine is able to affect the amyloid precursor protein (APP), amyloid beta protein metabolism. The presence study has been designed to assess the anti-apoptotic mechanisms of memantine on Aβ1–42 -induced neurotoxicity.Methods: Cultures of hippocampal neurons were divided into eight groups consisting of an untreated control, cells treated with amyloid-β1-42 (2 μM); memantine (5 μM), NMDA (3 μM), memantine before and after amyloid-β1-42, memantine before and after NMDA for 48 h. Changes in neuronal morphology and anti-apoptotic responses for each experimental group were assessed via MTT, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, immunostaining, propidium iodide (PI) staining and western blot.Results: We observed that the Aβ1-42-induced neurotoxicity was inhibited through the addition of memantine at concentrations of 1-5 μM. Aβ1-42 and NMDA induced changes in neuronal morphology and reduction in cell number and neurite length in cultured rat hippocampal neurons after 48 h of treatment compared with control group. Moreover, apoptosis properties, including DNA fragmentation and a low ratio of Bcl-2/Bax were observed in hippocampal neurons following treatment of Aβ1-42 and NMDA. Further observation demonstrated that the mitochondrial pathway through release of cytochorome c and caspase-3 activity was involved in the apoptosis induction. Whereas, results indicated that memantine is able to reverse Aβ1-42 induced neurotoxicity.Conclusions: The findings of presence study suggest that memantine has a neuroprotective potential via NMDA channel blockade and could be introduced as a promising therapeutic agent to decrease the risk of developing AD.
Fully-immersive virtual reality instrumental activities of daily living training for mild cognitive impairment: A feasibility study
Authors: Shin Hee Tae , Kim Dae Yul , Bae Cho Rong , Kim Heung Su , Park Mi Jung , You Seung Bok , Kwon Yu Jin , Gwak Ki uk
Published: June 2022

Background: The purpose of this study was to confirm that fully-immersive virtual reality (VR) instrumental activities of daily living (I-ADL) training is (1) safe and feasible for patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and (2) helpful for patients’ cognitive function and ADL performanceMethods: The VR system included simulation of I-ADL. The feasibility was assessed by using self-report satisfaction questionnaire, the level of the participants’ immersion, and a Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ). Before after VR training, the researchers assesse I-ADL scores, cognitive function, mood.Results: A total of 7 patients with MCI and mild dementia were recruited. Overall, the patients were highly satisfied. The mean immersion score was 50.42±7.89 points and the mean adherence was 83.71±6.10 points. Six patients experienced negligible side effects. After VR training, I-ADL scores improved significantly (P<0.05). Wordlist delayed recall (p=0.023) and Trail making test-B (TMT-B) (p=0.042) showed a statistically significant improvement.Conclusion: The fully-immersive VR I-ADL training was feasible for patients with MCI and provided them with a high level of satisfaction and immersion.This program can help improve patients’ ADL, cognition, and mood. These findings suggest that VR I-ADL training programs can be used as a treatment tool for patients with MCI.
CD14 signaling mediates lung immunopathology and mice mortality induced by Achromobacter xylosoxidans
Authors: Elias-Oliveira Jefferson , Prado Morgana Kelly Borges , Souza Camila Oliveira Silva e , Pastore Marcella Roverato , Ramos Simone Gusmão , Darini Ana Lúcia Costa , Gardinassi Luiz Gustavo , Faccioli Lúcia Helena
Published: June 2022

Objective and design:
Our research aimed to investigate the role of CD14 in pulmonary infection by Achromobacter xylosoxidans in an experimental murine model.
Methods
C57Bl/6 or CD14-deficient mice were infected intratracheally with A. xylosoxidans. At times 1, 3 and 7 days after infection, lungs, bronchoalveolar lavage and blood were collected. CD14 gene expression was determined by RT-PCR. The bacterial load in the lungs was assessed by counting colony forming units (CFU). Cytokines, chemokines, lipocalin-2 and sCD14 were quantified by the ELISA method. Inflammatory infiltrate was observed on histological sections stained with HE, and leukocyte subtypes were assessed by flow cytometry.
Results
CD14-deficient mice are protected from A. xylosoxidans-induced death, which is unrelated to bacterial load control. The lungs of CD14-deficient mice presented a smaller area of ​​tissue damage, less neutrophil and macrophage infiltration, less pulmonary edema, and a lower concentration of IL-6, TNF-α, CXCL1, CCL2 and CCL3 when compared with lungs of C57Bl/6 mice. We also observed that A. xylosoxidans infection increases the number of leukocytes expressing mCD14 and sCD14 levels in BALF and serum of infected mice.
Conclusions
In summary, our data show that in A. xylosoxidans infection, the activation of CD14 induces intense pulmonary inflammatory response resulting in mice death.
Species-specific transcriptomic changes upon Respiratory Syncytial Virus infection in cotton rats.
Authors: Strickland Britton A. , Rajagopala Seesandra V. , Kamali Arash , Shilts Meghan H , Pakala Suman B. , Boukhvalova Mariana S. , Yooseph Shibu , Blanco Jorge C. G. , Das Suman R.
Published: June 2022

Background: The cotton rat (Sigmodon) is the gold standard pre-clinical small animal model for respiratory viral pathogens, especially for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). However, without a reference genome or a published transcriptome, studies requiring gene expression analysis in cotton rats are severely limited. The aims of this study were to generate a comprehensive transcriptome from multiple tissues of two species of cotton rats that are commonly used as animal models (Sigmodon fulviventer and Sigmodon hispidus), and to compare and contrast gene expression changes and immune responses to RSV infection between the two species. Results: Transcriptomes were assembled from lung, spleen, kidney, heart, and intestines for each species with a contig N50>1600. Annotation of contigs generated nearly 120,000 gene annotations for each species. The transcriptomes of S. fulviventer and S. hispidus were then used to assess immune response to RSV infection. We identified 279 unique genes that are significantly differentially expressed, including several genes implicated in RSV infection (Mx1, I27L2, IIGP1, LY6E, Viperin, Keratin 6A) as well as novel genes that have not previously described in RSV research (LG3BP, SYWC, MYO7B, A1CF, APOBEC1, RIC1, KPYR, Claudin-2, and NR1H4)Conclusions: This study presents two comprehensive transcriptome references as resources for future gene expression analysis studies in the cotton rat model, as well as provides gene sequences for mechanistic characterization of molecular pathways. Overall, our results provide generalizable insights into the effect of host genetics on viral outcomes, as well as identify new host therapeutic targets for RSV treatment and prevention.
Neuroinflammatory transcriptional programs induced in rhesus pre-frontal cortex white matter during acute SHIV infection
Authors: Hawes Chase E. , Elizaldi Sonny R. , Beckman Danielle , Diniz Giovanne B. , Lakshmanappa Yashavanth Shaan , Ott Sean , Durbin-Johnson Blythe P. , Dinasarapu Ashok R. , Gompers Andrea L. , Morrison John H. , Iyer Smita S.
Published: June 2022

Background: Immunosurveillance of the central nervous system (CNS) is vital to resolve infection and injury. However, immune activation within the CNS in the setting of chronic viral infections, such as HIV-1, is strongly linked to progressive neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Establishment of HIV-1 in the CNS early following infection underscores the need to delineate features of acute CNS immune activation as these early inflammatory events may mediate neurodegenerative processes. Here, we focused on elucidating molecular programs of neuroinflammation in brain regions based on vulnerability to neuroAIDS and/or neurocognitive decline. To this end, we assessed transcriptional profiles within the subcortical white matter of the pre-frontal cortex (PFCw), as well as synapse dense regions from hippocampus, superior temporal cortex, and caudate nucleus, in rhesus macaques following infection with Simian/Human Immunodeficiency Virus (SHIV.C.CH505).Methods: We performed RNA extraction and sequenced RNA isolated from 3 mm brain punches. Viral RNA was quantified in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid by RT-qPCR assays targeting SIV Gag. Neuroinflammation was assessed by flow cytometry and multiplex ELISA assays. Results: RNA sequencing and flow cytometry data demonstrated immune surveillance of the rhesus CNS by innate and adaptive immune cells during homeostasis. Following SHIV infection, viral entry and integration within multiple brain regions demonstrated vulnerabilities of key cognitive and motor function brain regions to HIV-1 during the acute phase of infection. SHIV induced transcriptional alterations were concentrated to the PFCw and STS with upregulation of gene expression pathways controlling innate and T-cell inflammatory responses. Within the PFCw, gene modules regulating microglial activation and T cell differentiation were induced at 28 days post-SHIV infection, with evidence for stimulation of immune effector programs characteristic of neuroinflammation. Furthermore, enrichment of pathways regulating mitochondrial respiratory capacity, synapse assembly, and oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress were observed. These acute neuroinflammatory features were substantiated by increased influx of activated T cells into the CNS. Conclusions: Our data show pervasive immune surveillance of the rhesus CNS at homeostasis and reveal perturbations of important immune, neuronal, and synaptic pathways within key anatomic regions controlling cognition and motor function during acute HIV infection. These findings provide a valuable framework to understand early molecular features of HIV associated neurodegeneration.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of pregnant women toward Intermittent preventive treatment during pregnancy in selected medical centers in banadir region, Mogadishu Somalia.; A Cross-Sectional Study.
Authors: MOHAMUD ABDIRAHMAN KHALIF , MOHAMUD BAHJO ISMAIL
Published: June 2022

Background: - The World health organization recommended intermittent preventive treatment during pregnancy for every pregnant woman living in a malaria-endemic area to prevent and treat malaria during pregnancy. We aim to investigate the KAP of pregnant women toward intermittent preventive treatment during pregnancy in selected medical centers in Banadir region, Mogadishu Somalia.Method: - A descriptive cross-sectional study with A sample size of 333 respondents was randomly selected from the pregnant women that visited antenatal care of the three selected hospitals during the data collection period. The data were analyzed using Descriptive statistics & Compute variables to produce good, middle, and poor KAP scores by using SPSS version 20.Results: - Study participants who were Married, were illiterate, currently are first pregnant, have a housewife occupation, and have less income were more significant to have poor knowledge, poor attitude, and poor practice.Conclusion: - Pregnant women and their embryonic in the study area are at risk, particularly those who were poor education, and income, and have first pregnancy more significantly related to having poor knowledge, poor attitude, and poor practice toward malaria intermittent preventive treatment during pregnancy.
Quality of life among cervical cancer patients following completion of chemo-radiotherapy at Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) in Tanzania
Authors: Mvunta David H. , August Furaha , Dharsee Nazima , Mvunta Miriam H. , Wangwe Peter , Ngarina Matilda , Simba Brenda M. , Kidanto Hussein
Published: June 2022

Objective: Effective cancer treatment involves aggressive chemo-radiotherapy protocols that alter survivors’ quality of life (QOL). This has recently aroused the attention not only to focus on clinical care but rather to be holistic and client-centered, looking beyond morbidity and mortality. The study assessed the QOL and associated factors among patients with cervical cancer (CC) after the completion of chemo-radiotherapy.Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at Ocean Road Institute (ORCI) from September to November 2020. A total of 323 CC patients were interviewed with a structured questionnaire of QOL. The QOL domains, socio-demographic and clinical variables were analyzed with Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis on SPSS version 23, and a P<0.05 was considered significant.Results: More than half (54.8%) of the CC patients had a good overall QOL. Overall, QOL was affected by education (P=0.019), smoking (0.044), sexual partner (P=0.000), treatment modality (P=0.018), and time since completion of treatment (P=0.021). External beam radiation had a significant symptomatology (P<0.05) while combined external beam radiation and brachytherapy had higher functioning in most domains (P<0.05). Conclusions: A significant improvement in QOL was observed after chemo-radiotherapy and was affected by socio-demographic and clinical variables. Thus, calls for individualized care addressing distressing symptoms.
The outcomes of surgical management options for adult acquired buried penis
Authors: Falcone Marco , Preto Mirko , Timpano Massimiliano , Oderda Marco , Plamadeala Natalia , Cirigliano Lorenzo , Peretti Federica , Ferro Ilaria , Gontero Paolo
Published: June 2022

The available studies that provide a detailed analysis of functional and surgical outcomes after surgical correction of adult acquired buried penis(AABP) are limited. 28 patients who underwent surgical treatment of AABP from 2017 to 2021 were retrospectively recruited. AABP repairs were classified according to surgical complexity following Santucci’s classification. The primary endpoint of the study was the recurrence-free rate(RFR) survival. The secondary endpoints were surgical, functional and patients’ reported outcomes(PROs). The most common complains at presentation were sexual(54%) and voiding(39%) dysfunction. 79% underwent a complex repair(≥III). Surgical management steps ranged from circumcision to more complex procedures, such as abdominoplasty(71%). When skin grafting was needed, a split thickness(25%) or full thickness skin graft(28.6%) was applied. Overall postoperative complications were recorded in 32.1%. High-grade complications(Clavien ≥3) occurred in 7.1%, all in high-complexity group. 1-year RFR survival was 88.7%. 57% answered the questionnaires. IPSS showed an improvement in urinary functon(pre=8(0-12) vs post=2(0-3)) and IIEF-15 in sexual functon(pre=37(23-68) vs post=68(45-72)) in postoperative settings. Overall, patients reported functional improvement and 93.5% were fully satisfied of the outcomes. QoL improved in 93.8% after the operation. Surgical management of AAPB, despite the high incidence of complications, guarantees satisfactory outcomes leading to a significant improvement in patients’ QoL.
Reduplicated Medial Parapatellar Plica: a Case of a Medial Plica Anatomical Variation Recalcitrant to Conservative Treatment
Authors: FERMÍN Theodorakys MARÍN , MACCHIAROLA Luca , TSAKOTOS George , TERZIDIS Ioannis , TOTLIS Trifon
Published: June 2022

Purpose: The current study aims to report the radiologic and clinical appearance of a rare anatomical variation of the knee medial synovial plica along with its response to conservative and surgical treatment.Case presentation: This report portrays a 29 years old male patient with anteromedial gradual onset right knee pain, aggravated when descending stairs or prolonged sitting. Physical examination revealed medial parapatellar local tenderness, a palpable click in this area when the knee is extended, and hamstring tightness. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a duplicated medial plica, characterized by a high-intensity signal of the infrapatellar fat pad medial portion, after which a presumptive diagnosis of medial plica syndrome was proposed. After conservative treatment failure, the patient underwent standard knee arthroscopy that revealed a superior low profile and an inferior high profile medial plica, and hypertrophy of the medial portion of the infrapatellar fat pad. Both plicae and fat pad were resected with a mechanical shaver until no contact between the femoral trochlea and the fat pad was observed during full range of motion. At four weeks postoperatively, symptoms completely resolved, and the patient was allowed to return to full activity with no recurrences at one-year follow-up.Conclusion: The current study presented a rare anatomical variation of the knee medial synovial plica that was symptomatic and recalcitrant to conservative treatment. This case report may be useful for radiologists and orthopaedic surgeons to differentiate this special plica type and consider its response to conservative and surgical treatment during patient management.
Ventilation study of the human lungs by 19F MRI at 0.5 Tesla
Authors: Pavlova Olga S. , Anisimov Nikolay V. , Gulyaev Mikhail V. , Gervits Lev L. , Pirogov Yury A.
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To obtain information on functional lung activity by 19F MRI using low field (0.5T) MRI scanner.Methods: Two healthy and one post-Covid volunteers participated in the studies. As a contrast for 19F pulmonary MRI, the octafluorcyclobutane gas (OFCB) mixed with oxygen was used. MR scans of human lungs were conducted by 2D and 3D FSE methods. MRI data were used for volume reconstruction, calculation of V/Q, wash-in/-out and single breath dynamic measurements.Results: 3D imaging revealed gas distribution inhomogeneity in the post-Covid lungs. V/Q maps showed that the mean value of V/Q in the post-Covid lungs was less than in the healthy lungs - 0.1 vs. 0.5. The wash-in/-out dynamic measurements determined that fractional ventilation is 12±2% and wash-in time is 90±20s. Dynamics of gas distribution during one breath cycle was analyzed. The calculated inspiration and expiration maps gave normalized effective times for these stages - 0.30±0.07 and 0.15±0.04, respectively. Conclusion: Different 19F pulmonary MRI methods were implemented: 3D imaging, V/Q-mapping, wash-in/-out dynamics and single respiratory cycle imaging. The results are agreed with known data and demonstrates possibility of ventilation assessment of the lungs at 0.5 Tesla.
Business sustainability behaviour and alignment with climate targets
Authors: Cenci Simone , Burato Matteo , Rei Marek , Zollo Maurizio
Published: June 2022

Climate actions from the private sector are crucial to meeting country-level emissions targets. Therefore, an increasing number of companies have pledged to align their emissions with global
targets and have launched a wide variety of climate initiatives. However, the emissions pathways of most firms are still misaligned with these goals.
To explain the root causes of this discrepancy between effort and outcome, we developed a new methodology to track the actions implemented by major public corporations to contribute to the SDGs. Our analysis shows that firms aligned with climate targets prioritise actions focused on creating growth opportunities and fostering cooperation with other ecosystem players. Our approach also provides a potential solution to the limitations of ESG ratings for investment and management decisions. Finally, policymakers can use our approach to design behaviourally founded policy interventions to align business emissions with climate targets.
Role of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain RD1 (Lpb RD1) in mitochondria-mediated apoptosis: An in vitro analysis
Authors: Rathikota Durga , Yeguvapalli Suneetha , Krishna Sarma Potukuchi Venkata Gurunadha , Kataru Surekha
Published: June 2022

The purpose of this study was to determine the cytotoxicity of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain RD1 (Lpb RD1), which was isolated and identified from the curd by 16 S rRNA sequencing. The probiotic properties of the isolated strain were studied by bile and NaCl tolerance and the ethyl acetate extract of (Lpb RD1), was used to determine the toxicity against human breast cancer (MCF-7) cell lines and human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cell lines by MTTassay. DNA fragmentation assay was carried out to study apoptosis induction. Flow cytometry analysis was done to determine the % of a cell population using the FTIC-Annexin V staining method. RT-PCR was used to assess gene expression levels in both cell lines. The IC50 concentration of the ethyl acetate extract of (Lpb RD1), in MCF-7 cells was 0.30mg/ml. The expression levels of the BCL-2 gene anti-apoptotic genes in humans were reduced and BAX, Caspase 8, caspase3, and caspase 9 were an increased expression in MCF-7 cell lines.
The interplay between the airway epithelium and tissue macrophages during the SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Barreto-Duran Emilia , Szczepański Artur , Gałuszka-Bulaga Adrianna , Surmiak Marcin , Siedlar Maciej , Sanak Marek , Rajfur Zenon , Milewska Aleksandra , Lenart Marzena , Pyrć Krzysztof
Published: June 2022

The first line of antiviral immune response in the lungs is secured by the innate immunity. Several cell types take part in this process, but airway macrophages (AMs) are among the most relevant ones. The AMs can phagocyte infected cells and activate the immune response through antigen presentation and cytokine release. However, the precise role of macrophages in the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection is still largely unknown. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the role of AMs during the SARS-CoV-2 infection using a co-culture of fully differentiated primary human airway epithelium (HAE) and human monocyte-derived macrophages (hMDMs). Our results confirmed abortive SARS-CoV-2 infection in hMDMs, and their inability to transfer the virus to epithelial cells. However, we demonstrated a striking inhibition of viral replication in the HAEs when hMDMs were added apically after the epithelial infection, but not when added before the inoculation or on the basolateral side of the culture. Moreover, SARS-CoV-2 inhibition by hMDMs seems to be driven by cell-to-cell contact and not by the cytokine production. Together, our results show, for the first time, that recruitment of macrophages may play an important role during the SARS-CoV-2 infection, limiting the virus replication and its spread.
The synergistic mechanism of fibroblast growth factor 18 and integrin β1 in rat abdominal aortic aneurysm repair
Authors: Guo Yilong , Wei Ren , He Yuan , Zhang Hongpeng , Deng Jianqing , Guo Wei
Published: June 2022

Background: Abdominal aortic aneurysms have a high mortality rate. While surgery is the preferred treatment method, the biological repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms is being increasingly studied. We performed cellular and animal experiments to investigate the simultaneous function and mechanism of fibroblast growth factor 18 and integrin β1 in the biological repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms.Methods: Endothelial and smooth muscle cells from rat arteries were used for the cellular experiments. Intracellular integrin β1 expression was regulated through lentiviral transfection. Interventions with fibroblast growth factor 18 were determined according to the experimental protocol. Several methods were used to detect the expression of elastic fiber component proteins, cell proliferation, and migratory activity of endothelial and smooth muscle cells after different treatments. For animal experiments, abdominal aortic aneurysms were induced in rats by wrapping the abdominal aortae in sterile cotton balls soaked with CaCl2 solution. Fibroblast growth factor 18 was administered through tail vein injections. The local expression of integrin β1 was regulated through lentiviral injections into the adventitia of the abdominal aortic aneurysms. The abdominal aortae were harvested for pathological examinations and tensile mechanical tests.Results: The expression of integrin β1 in endothelial and smooth muscle cells could be regulated effectively through lentiviral transfection. Animal and cellular experiments showed that fibroblast growth factor 18 + integrin β1 could improve the expression of elastic fiber component proteins and enhance the migratory and proliferative activities of smooth muscle and endothelial cells. Moreover, animal experiments showed that fibroblast growth factor 18 + integrin β1 could enhance the anti-stretching ability of aortic aneurysm tissue.Conclusion: Fibroblast growth factor 18 + integrin β1 improved the biological repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms in rats by increasing the expression of elastic fibers, improving the migratory and proliferative abilities of endothelial and smooth muscle cells, and improving aortic remodeling.
WITHDRAWN: Impact of Inorganic, Organic and Biological Sources of Nutrients on Nutrient Content and Nutrient Uptake of Rice in an Inceptisol Soil of Tamil Nadu (Navarai Season)
Authors: S. Arun Kumar , Kumari Kamini , K. Arivazhagan
Published: June 2022

Purpose; A field experiment was carried out during the Navarai season (2022) using rice variety ADT - 37 to assess the impact of different sources of nutrients on nutrient contents and nutrient uptake of rice in an Inceptisol soil of Tamil Nadu. Methods; The experimental soil was clay loam in texture and had a pH-8.10, EC-0.7 dSm-1, and available NPK of 186.20, 23.30, and 192.25 kg ha-1, respectively. The experiment comprised of nine treatments viz., T1 – Control, T2 - 100% RDF, T3 - 125% RDF , T4 - 100% RDF + Press mud @ 10 t ha-1 + 2% Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria, T5 – 100% RDF + Vermicompost @ 6 t ha-1 + 2% Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria, T6 – 100% RDF + Coirpith Compost @ 6 t ha-1 + 2% Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria, T7 – 125% RDF + Press mud @ 10 t ha-1 + 2% Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria, T8 – 125% RDF + Vermicompost @ 6 t ha-1 + 2% Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria, T9 – 125% RDF + Coirpith Compost @ 6 t ha-1 + 2% Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria. Results; The results revealed that application of 125% RDF + Vermicompost @ 6 t ha-1 + 2% Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria (T8) recorded higher values in nutrient content and nutrient uptake. Conclusions; It could be concluded that the T8 was found to be agronomically and economically viable, practice for augmenting higher production. Hence this can be recommended by the rice-growing farmers in Tamil Nadu.
Maslinic acid Solid Lipid Nanoparticles as hydrophobic anticancer drug carriers: formulation, in vitro activity and in vivo biodistribution
Authors: Aguilera-Garrido Aixa , Graván Pablo , Navarro-Marchal Saúl A. , Medina-O’donnell Marta , Parra Andrés , Gálvez-Ruiz María José , Marchal-Corrales Juan A. , Galisteo-González Francisco
Published: June 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Epidemiology of United States Tennis-Related Ocular Injuries from 2000-2019
Authors: Patel Parth S , Uppuluri Aditya , Oydanich Marko , Langer Paul D. , Zarbin Marco A. , Bhagat Neelakshi
Published: June 2022

PURPOSE
To characterize trends in ocular tennis injuries over the last 20 years.
METHODS
The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System was utilized to characterize tennis-related eye injuries in a nationally representative sample of emergency department visits. Data were divided into 5 age groups, and various demographic information was obtained.
RESULTS
Approximately 16,000 tennis-related ocular injuries were identified with males being affected nearly 2:1 compared to females. The youngest age group (0–20) had the greatest proportion of injuries, with most injuries in boys 11–15 years old. Injuries occurred most often during the spring season. Most patients were treated and released from the ED. Of those patients who were hospitalized, one-third had an open globe injury.
CONCLUSIONS
The overall number of injuries trended downward during the timespan of the study. Although most patients did not experience serious visual consequences, the greatest proportion of ocular tennis injuries occurred in the pediatric age group in whom the risk of amblyopia is high. Primary care providers and tennis regulatory bodies should consider recommending eye safety sports goggles in children to mitigate the potential for significant visual morbidity.
SPARC expression is in laryngeal carcinoma and its correlation with immune infiltrates
Authors: Hu Xiao yan , liu shuang , Xiang Li , Lv Liang ge , Jiang Liang , Zhang Jing , He Yu xiao
Published: June 2022

ObjectivesThis study aimed to identify SPARC expression in laryngeal carcinoma and its relationship with the tumor immune microenvironment at the genomic level.MethodsThe data of SPARC expression for laryngeal carcinoma tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues was downloaded from TCGA database. Then, CIBERSORT was used to deconvolve the proportion of 22 types of immune cells in laryngeal carcinoma normal tissues and cancer tissues. The GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of the Hub genes that were co-expressed with SPARC were performed using R package. The Kaplan-Meier and log-rank test were used to perform survival analysis. ResultsThe SPARC expression in laryngeal carcinoma tumor tissues was elevated relative to normal tissue (P < 0.001). Similarly, compared with paired adjacent normal tissues, SPARC expression significantly upregulated in tumor tissues (P = 0.002). However, survival analysis showed that there was no significant different in overall survival (OS) between SPARC low expression group and high expression group (P = 0.952). SPARC was negatively associated with the infiltration of B cells memory (r = -0.24, P = 0.024) and plasma cells (r = -0.26, P = 0.014). In addition, SPARC was positively correlated with macrophages M0 (r = 0.22, P = 0.038) and T cells CD4 memory resting (r =0.26, P = 0.014). Furthermore, the Hub genes of SPARC were enriched in extracellular matrix structural constituent, cell growth and/or maintenance and Beta3 integrin cell surface interactions.ConclusionsSPARC was overexpressed in laryngeal carcinoma tissues compared with normal adjacent tissues and was correlated with immune cells infiltrating.
Discussion on a method of single spinal anesthesia in old women with the pencil-point spinal needle
Authors: Wang Le , Wei Lei , Su HuiBin , Lu Gang , Yang Fen
Published: June 2022

Objective: To investigate the feasibility and advantages of the penetrating spinal anesthesia with the pencil-point spinal needle, 25G.Methods: A total of 60 patients (ASA I-II) undergoing lower limb or hemorrhoids surgery were divided into two groups. Combined spinal epidural anesthesia (CSEA) was given in group A and spinal anesthesia was directly used in group B with pencil-point spinal needle. midline approaches method was used in both groups. After follow-up for one week, the anesthesia dissipation time，the backache, the leg pain and the paresthesia were recorded.Results: There was no significant difference in the duration, the leg pain, postdural puncture headache (PDPH) and the paresthesia of analgesia between two groups. The incidence of the lumbago in group B was lower than that in group A(0 vs 20%, P<0.05). Conclusion: The spinal anesthesia puncture with the pencil-point spinal needle is simple, feasible, and safe. Especially perfect for beginners and doctors without ultrasound.
Development and validation of a novel scale for antiretroviral therapy readiness among pregnant women in urban Zambia with newly diagnosed HIV infection
Authors: Mubiana-Mbewe Mwangelwa , Bosomprah Samuel , Saroj Rakesh K. , Kadota Jillian , Koyuncu Aybuke , Kusanathan Thankaian , Vinikoor Michael J.
Published: June 2022

BackgroundPregnant women who are newly diagnosed with HIV infection may not be ready to initiate lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART; called Option B+) on the day of HIV diagnosis as is recommended. This drives early disengagement from care and undermines prevention of HIV transmission to infants. Several studies have shown high early attrition of women initiating ART in pregnancy. Although various reasons including stigma, disclosure issues and structural issues have been proposed as contributing to poor ART uptake and adherence, there is no standard way of determining which pregnant woman will face challenges and therefore needs additional support. We developed and validated a novel Option B+ readiness tool in Lusaka, Zambia. MethodsThe aim of this study was to develop and validate a tool that could be used to assess how ready a newly diagnosed HIV positive pregnant woman would be to initiate ART on the day of diagnosis. Using a mixed method design, we conducted this study in three public-setting health facilities in Lusaka, Zambia. Informed by qualitative research and literature review, we identified 27 candidate items. We assessed content validity using expert and target population judgment approaches. We administered the 27-item questionnaire to 454 newly diagnosed HIV positive pregnant women, who were enrolled into a randomized trial (trials number NCT02459678). We performed item reduction analysis and used Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.70 as threshold for reliability. ResultsA total of 454 HIV-infected pregnant women enrolled in the study between March 2017 and December 2017; 452 had complete data for analysis. The correlation coefficient between the 27 items on the completed ART readiness scale ranged from 0.31 to 0.70 while item discrimination index ranged from -0.01 to 2.38. Sixteen items were selected for the final scale, representing three domains, which we classified as “internalized and anticipated HIV stigma”, “partner support” and “anticipated structural barriers”. ConclusionWe developed and validated a tool that could be used to assess readiness of newly diagnosed HIV positive women to initiate ART. This ART readiness tool could allow clinics to tailor limited resources to pregnant women living with HIV needing additional support to initiate and remain on ART.
Performance comparison of different HTM-spatial pooler algorithms based on information-theoretic measures
Authors: Sanati Shiva , Rouhani Modjtaba , Hodtani Ghosheh Abed
Published: June 2022

This paper provided an information-theoretic framework for the performance comparison of different types of HTM-Spatial Pooler (SP) algorithms for the first time. There are two primary goals. The first goal is to measure SP's performance as a standalone component, and the second goal is to compute the SP performance on the whole performance of the HTM algorithm. For this purpose, four different SPs were introduced by making changes in each of the four parts of the SP algorithm. The SP algorithm was considered a black box. Three information-theoretic measures, i.e., Renyi mutual information, Renyi divergence, and Henze-Penrose divergence, were proposed to determine the similarities and differences between the input and output of the SP algorithm. So the accuracy of each method was computed by these information-theoretic measures. This paper was able to quantify the similarities and differences between the two SDRs in the SP algorithm, unlike previous papers that do experimentally. Then, the results were compared with the Overlap Score measure that was previously introduced and found that the results of the new measures were compatible with the previous one. Four different datasets: MNIST, Fashion-MNIST, Hotgym, and NYC-Taxi, were used to perform experiments. The performance of each SP algorithm in the whole HTM system was examined and analyzed using the accuracy and error percentage measures. Finally, it concluded that the best SP algorithm's efficiency leads to the best HTM algorithm.
Structural and energetic differences between the human RXRα–PPARγ heterodimer with and without DNA binding
Authors: Azam Faizul , Bello Martiniano
Published: June 2022

Structural data of multidomain structures of nuclear receptor complexes provides essential insights into how the quaternary complex impacts the nuclear receptor function. The heterodimeric complex between retinoic X receptor alpha (RXRα) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is one of the most important and predominant regulatory systems, controlling lipid metabolism by binding to specific DNA promoter regions. X-ray and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have revealed the average conformation adopted by the RXRα–PPARγ heterodimer bound to DNA, providing information about how multiple domains communicate to regulate receptor properties. However, knowledge of the energetic basis of the protein-ligand and protein-protein interactions is still lacking. Here we explore the structural and energetic mechanism of RXRα–PPARγ–DNA systems through microsecond MD simulations, molecular mechanics generalized Born surface area binding free energy calculations, principal component analysis, the free energy landscape, and correlated motion analysis. In our MD simulations, the RXRα–PPAR system was either bound or not bound to DNA and formed a complex with co-crystallized ligands (PDB entry 3DZY). Our results reveal new protein-ligand and protein-protein interactions that had not been reported in prior crystallographic studies. Binding free energy studies showed differences in protein-ligand and protein-protein affinity, whereas principal component analysis revealed differences in the conformational entropy depending on whether RXRα–PPARγ is bound or not bound to DNA. Correlated motions suggested that the allosteric communication is DNA dependent and bidirectional, impacting the protein-ligand and protein-protein interactions.
Using Google Colab for Easily-Implemented User-Customizable Bioinformatics Web Tools: A Case Study Through OKtool for Overlapping K-mer Retrieval
Authors: Gao Andrew , Gao Sarah
Published: June 2022

Bioinformatics web tools and servers are a powerful way for researchers to share valuable computational tools. They are ideal because users can run analyses in their browsers without having to download, set up, and run code on their local system. However, bioinformatics tool development requires web development proficiency and server costs which can be a barrier to entry. Google Colaboratory (Colab) is an online interactive code environment available to anyone with a free account. Colab is easy for both the developer and user. It allows researchers to make code available without needing web development skills. Users can customize code easily through Colab, which is beneficial since current bioinformatics web tools do not allow the user to edit code and perform customized operations. Also, Colab allows for easy collaboration and editing of code without concerns about platform compatibility between computers. Due to its user-friendly and customizable properties, we propose using Colab for developing bioinformatics tools. In this case study, we demonstrate implementation of the OKtool on Colab, a Python-based tool for calculating overlapping k-mers of desired length from a list of protein or DNA sequences. Applications include motif analysis and antigenic epitope analysis. It is a highly-customizable tool fully implemented in Colab that provides a FASTA file of k-mers derived from any given list of sequences. Overall, our work demonstrates the potential for bioinformatics tool development on Colab. OKtool is freely accessible at oktool.cloud.AvailabilityShort link: oktool.cloudFull link: https://colab.research.google.com/drive/15Z1ZETuJcXW59D4XKDWi9OKwtaEZC1nz?usp=sharingGithub link: https://github.com/andrewgcodes/OKtoolImplementationSimply open the Google Colab link to run the code. Step by step instructions are provided. No downloads are necessary. If unable to access Colab, download the Github IPYNB file and open in Jupyter on your system. The only needed library is Pandas, which can be installed via pip.
WITHDRAWN: Viral reactivation in the lungs of patients with severe pneumonia is associated with increased mortality, a multicenter, retrospective study
Authors: Huang Lingtong , Fang Xueling
Published: June 2022

Purpose
This study aims to assess the clinical features of virome in the early onset of severe pneumonia in ICU patients.
Methods
A total of 97 patients’ clinical data was collected retrospectively from intensive care units of five teaching hospitals in China from June 2018 to July 2021 followed by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) of the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) at the onset of severe pneumonia.
Results
Cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) were the most common reactivated viruses in the lower respiratory tract of patients with severe pneumonia. After adjusting for the risk of confounding and competition, viral reactivation resulted in an overall increase of 2.052 folds of 28-day all-cause mortality (95% CI: 1.004–4.194).
Conclusion
This study showed that CMV, HSV-1, and EBV were the most common reactivated viruses in the lungs of patients in the ICU at the onset of severe pneumonia. Viral reactivation is common and associated with an increased risk of mortality.