bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, Calcium, and Parathyroid Hormone Levels on the Risk of Coronary Artery Disease in Patients With Diabetes: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Chen Songzan , Yang Fangkun , Xu Tian , Wang Yao , Zhang Kaijie , Fu Guosheng , Zhang Wenbin 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
BackgroundTo investigate the causal association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), calcium (Ca), and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with diabetes using a Mendelian randomization approach.MethodsGenetic signatures associated with serum 25OHD, Ca, and PTH levels were extracted from recently published genome-wide association study (GWAS), including 79,366, 39,400, 29,155 individuals, respectively. Genetic association estimates for CAD in patients with diabetes were obtained from a GWAS of 15,666 individuals with diabetes (3,968 CAD cases, 11,696 controls). The inverse-variance-weighted method was employed for the primary analysis, and other robust methods were applied for sensitivity analyses.ResultsSix, seven and five single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified as instrumental variables for serum 25OHD, Ca and PTH levels, respectively. There was no significant association between genetically predicted serum 25OHD levels and the risk of CAD in patients with diabetes (odds ratio (OR) = 1.04, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.58 - 1.87, P = 0.888). Similarly, genetically predicted serum Ca (OR = 1.83, 95% CI: 0.62 – 5.35, P = 0.273) and PTH levels (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 0.67 – 2.44, P = 0.464) were not significantly associated with the risk of CAD in patients with diabetes. These findings were robust in sensitivity analyses.Conclusions/interpretationThis study found no evidence to support the causal association between serum 25OHD, Ca and PTH levels and the risk of CAD in patients with diabetes.
Research on Saponin Active Ingredient of Stir-Fried Dolichos Lablab L. Kernel for Treatment of Type-2 Diabetes Based on UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS and Network Pharmacology
Authors: Jun Han , Fang Liangzi , Zheng Qinfang 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
BackgroundAlthough the clinical effect of stir-fried Dolichos lablab L. kernel has been approved in modern traditional Chinese medicine, existing associated studies mainly focus on its clinical studies and chemical ingredients. However, there are few studies on pharmacodynamics material basis and molecular mechanism of stirfried Dolichos lablab L. kernel in treatment of type-2 diabetes(T2DM), thus restricting the further development and utilization of stir-fried Dolichos lablab L. kernel.MethodsA qualitative analysis on saponin chemical ingredients of stir-fried Dolichos lablab L. kernel was performed using UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS. A total of 10 saponin ingredients were selected. Moreover, target screening, biological process and metabolism pathway analysis were accomplished by network pharmacology. Four key proteins(EGFR, IGF1, MAPK1 and PIK3R1) of type-2 diabetes were selected for molecular docking verification with saponin ingredients. Specifically, molecular dynamics simulation of ingredients which have strong bindings with proteins was conducted. ResultsIn this study, 16 saponin ingredients were identified from stir-fried Dolichos lablab L. kernel. There were 91 intersection targets and the KEGG pathway enrichment involved 20 relevant pathways. According to the molecular docking verification, saponin ingredients of stir-fried Dolichos lablab L. kernel can form stable binding with key protein targets. The molecular dynamics simulation further verifies stability and reasonability of the docking results. ConclusionsThis study provides references to identification of efficient ingredients of stir-fried Dolichos lablab L. kernel, screening of quality markers and explanation of relevant action mechanism by combining UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS and network pharmacology.
Scanning Various Nanomaterials and Variable Camouflages to Evaluate the Biocompatibility in Multi-organs of Embryos
Authors: Zheng Bin , Guo Mingming , Pang Meijun , Ming Dong 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background:Nanomaterials are under a wide range of application prospects in human health and disease, such as medical imaging and drug delivery and treatment. With the gradual advent of the nano era, the safety of nanomaterials in biology must be evaluated more widely and deeply. Therefore, superficial safety assessment based on specific cell lines in vitro is difficult to meet the current needs. Multi-organs assessment in vivo will be beneficial in establishing a more comprehensive pathway for the understanding of nanomaterials-induced biotoxicity. Results:In this work, we employed a series of genetically modified zebrafish models for nanomaterials toxicity assessment. The results demonstrated that cadmium selenide (CdSe) quantum dot (QDs) was the most toxic after scanning some popular nanomaterials. Among modified methods of silica coating, core-shell structure development and organic molecular camouflage, the polyethylene glycol camouflage method exhibits a better performance of improving the biocompatibility of CdSe QDs in multiple-organs including hearts, nerves, blood vessels, and immune system. Conclusion:Our work provides an alternative paradigm for more in-depth and sensitive preclinical validation of biocompatibility, especially in neurotoxicity and cardiotoxicity of embryos, and a guidance for reducing the toxicity of biomedical materials.
Realising Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights of Adolescent Girls and Young Women Living in Slums in Uganda: A Qualitative Study
Authors: McGranahan Majel , Bruno-McClung Elizabeth , Nakyeyune Joselyn , Nsibirwa Derrick Aaron , Baguma Christopher , Ogwang Christopher , Serunjoji Francis , Nakalembe Judith , Kayaga Marianna , Sekalala Sharifah , Oyebode Oyinlola 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
BackgroundSexual and reproductive health rights are critical entitlements best supported through human rights-based approaches empowering duty-bearers and rights-holders. Implementing these requires information on the current needs and challenges faced by those seeking to claim their sexual and reproductive health rights. We aimed to identify the underlying factors influencing the realisation of sexual and reproductive health rights for adolescent girls and young women living Ugandan slums by: (1) exploring the role of relevant service providers and stakeholders; and (2) uncovering knowledge and gaps in protecting adolescent girls’ and young women’s sexual and reproductive health rights.Methods Qualitative data were collected through focus groups and interviews focused on current knowledge, behaviours and attitudes towards sexual and reproductive health rights among adolescent girls and young women, service providers and stakeholders. Data were analysed thematically. Results Ten in-depth interviews were conducted with key informants (N=10); two focus groups were held with adolescent girls and young women living in two slums in Uganda (N=21); and three focus groups were held with community leaders, service providers, teachers and parents (N=30). Adolescent girls and young women lacked information regarding their sexual health, services available, and redress mechanisms for rights violations. Formal sources of information were frequently inaccessible. Family members were sometimes the source of rights violations, and informal methods of redressing rights were often sought. Stigma and fear were common features both in healthcare and in the pursuit of formal justice, with duty-bearers habitually breaking confidentiality. Education and training were the predominant suggestions offered for change. Conclusions Adolescent girls and young women continue to face obstacles in achieving their full sexual and reproductive health rights. Targeted interventions for the realisation of adolescent girls’ and young women’s sexual and reproductive health rights can address underlying causes and positively shift attitudes to promote health.
A platform and protocol to standardise the test and selection low-cost sensors for water level monitoring
Authors: Cherqui F. , James R. , Poelsma P. , Burns M. J. , Szota C. , Fletcher T. , Bertrand-Krajewski J.-L. 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Water infrastructure in cities is complex and requires proactive management to optimise function. The scale and distribution of assets across municipalities requires affordable systems which can trigger alerts. Systems underpinned by low-cost sensors could meet increasing monitoring needs: more assets, more often, and at a better resolution. However, low-cost sensors require appropriate testing to assess their performance and optimise their use. Here, we focus on low-cost water level sensors, often considered as the main monitoring parameters for water-related infrastructures. We developed a platform and testing protocol to assess the suitability of low-cost sensors. We assessed the performance of three widely used low-cost sensors: laser-ranging, ultrasonic-ranging, and pressure. Our main results showed that the ultrasonic sensor offers the best price to accuracy ratio, and the pressure sensor provides the highest accuracy while still at a very low cost. Our platform and protocol provide a standardised testing and calibration method which can be applied to any sensor. The platform can be used to gather and share results, to enhance community knowledge and encourage the use of new (low-cost or not) sensors. The development of low-cost sensors is an important step toward the wider use monitoring systems for water infrastructure.
Pilot-scale study of forward osmosis for treating desulfurization wastewater
Authors: Ma Cong , Li Qianqian , Dai Chang , Wang Liang , Zhao Bin , Zhang Zhaohui , Xue Siguo , Tian Wende 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Forward osmosis (FO) treatment of desulfurization wastewater shows great potential in laboratory scale tests. To explore the adaptability of the forward osmosis system in the practical treatment of desulfurization wastewater, we carried out a pilot test on desulfurization wastewater treated by the traditional method under the conditions of adding soda ash (SA) and adding FO scale inhibitor (FOSI). The results showed that the FO system could concentrate desulfurization wastewater with an average TDS of 15,816–32,820 mg/L in the influent water to an average TDS of more than 120,000 mg/L, which was concentrated 3.8–7.8 times. The removal rates of Ca2+, Mg2+ and Cl− were more than 99% and the system could operate stably for a long time. Under the condition of adding SA and FOSI, the system recovery rate was 85.38% and 73.02%, respectively. The operating cost was 25 RMB/ton and 21.77 RMB/ton, respectively. The results showed that the application of forward osmosis in desulfurization wastewater treatment was technically feasible and economically effective.
Adsorption/photodegradation of methylene blue from synthetic wastewater on titanate nanotubes surfaces
Authors: Mohanty Saismrutiranjan , Maji Sanjoy Kumar 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Titanate nanotubes (TNTs) were hydrothermally synthesized from commercially available TiO2 powder and were characterized by XRD, SEM/EDX, and TEM. The as-prepared TNTs were used to remove organic dye, Methylene Blue (MB) from aqueous media by batch mode at 25 ± 2 °C, at pH 6.8 ± 0.2. The MB removal process followed two mechanisms of adsorption (absence of UV light) and photodegradation on precursor's surfaces. Photo-illumination study revealed the ∼98% MB removal with the dose of 3 g/L TNT with an initial concentration of 10 mg/L. Adsorptive capacity of TNT was evaluated from the Langmuir isotherm and found to be 151.51 mg/g. Dimensionless equilibrium parameter RL value suggested the favourable but the free energy changes (ΔG°) value (10.752 kJ/mol) suggested the non-spontaneity of the adsorption process. Adsorption followed the pseudo-second order kinetics model best. MB adsorption onto TNT surfaces followed neither pore diffusion nor film diffusion. Studies conducted in the presence of different foreign ions as well as varying pH of the media to understand their effects in the process if any. Turnover studies were also conducted. A probable photodegradation mechanism was proposed. Finally, TNT was used to remove MB from spiked pond water collecting from the KISS University, including pre- and post analysis of water quality.
Prediction Biomarkers Associated with Lymph Node Metastasis and Prognosis were Identified in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma via Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Gan Siyuan , Ye Ruifang , Ha Yanping , Xiong Yinghuan , Li Rujia , Di Xiaoqing , Zou Zhenning , Sun Yanqin , Zhang Zhi 
Published: November 2020

Background:
Prediction biomarkers associated with prognosis and lymph node metastasis (LNM) in papillary
thyroid carcinoma (PTC) are needed to facilitate clinicians in choosing appropriate therapies.

Objective:
We hope to identify key genes associated with LNM and prognosis in PTC.

Methods:
GSE29265, GSE33630, GSE3467, GSE3678 and GSE58545 gene expression profiles were acquired from the
Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between PTC tissues and normal thyroid tissues
were selected with the GEO2R tool, and common DEGs among the five datasets were integrated with Venn software online.
A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the common DEGs was visualized. We analyzed the PPI network and determined
core genes using the Cytoscape software. Furthermore, we employed UALCAN to verify the expression and promoter
methylation status of the core genes in thyroid carcinoma (THCA). Additionally, the Kaplan–Meier plotter online tool
was used to analyze the relationship between overall survival and core gene expressions in THCA.

Results:
TNS3, DUSP6, DUSP4 and PTPRE were identified as core genes. Expression of these 4 genes and the promoter
methylation status of DUSP4 and PTPRE were strongly associated with LNM (P<0.05). High expression of 3 genes
(DUSP6, DUSP4 and PTPRE) was related with significantly better survival than low expression of the 3 genes in THCA. In
contrast, high TNS3 expression was related to significantly worse survival (P<0.05).

Conclusion:
TNS3, DUSP6, DUSP4, PTPRE and DUSP4 and PTPRE promoter methylation status might be useful predictive
biomarkers of LNM in PTC. Additionally, these genes may be prognostic biomarkers in PTC.
Cigarette Smoke Exposure Inhibits Early Phase of Antibody Production through Inhibition of Immune Functions in Alveolar Macrophage
Authors: Kobayashi Kengo , Hirono Yuriko , Nakta Honami , Pinkerton Kent E. , Takeuchi Minoru 
Published: November 2020

Background::Cigarette smoke (CS) is inhaled into the lung. Alveolar macrophage (AM) is known to play an important role in the lung immune system. However, the relationship between AM functions and antibody production by CS is not fully investigated.Objective::Therefore, we investigated the effects of AM from CS exposed mice on antibody production. Mice were exposed to 20 cigarettes/day for 10 days. AM were obtained by broncho-alveolar lavage. Antibody production was analyzed by plaque-forming cell assay using seep red blood cell (SRBC) as antigen.Methods::B cell proliferation was analyzed by 3H-thymidine incorporation. Phagocytic activity using fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled SRBC and expressions of surface antigens on AM were analyzed by flow cytometry. Cytokines and NF-κB mRNA expressions of AM were analyzed by RTPCR.Results and Discussion:Antibody production was decreased at the induction phase, but not at the expression phase by AM from smoked mice (SM) compared with non-smoked mice (NSM). B cell proliferation was decreased by cigarette extracts dose-dependently. Phagocytic activity of AM was decreased in SM compared with NSM. Expression of surface antigens on AM was decreased in SM compared with NSM. Cytokines or NF-κB mRNA expressions of AM were decreased in SM compared with NSM.Conclusion::These results suggest that the inhibition of antibody production by cigarette smoking is caused by the inhibition of phagocytosis and expressions of surface antigens associated with antigen presentation. Such inhibition of AM functions may increase the risk of bacterial and virus infections.
Butyrate: A Review on Beneficial Pharmacological and Therapeutic Effect
Authors: Singh Dhirendra , Gupta Sumeet 
Published: November 2020

Background::
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), generally acetate, propionate along with
butyrate, are aliphatic organic acids formed in the gut mucosa through bacterial fermentation of
mostly undigested nutritional carbohydrates, again to a minor degree by natural and dietary proteins,
such as mucous and shed epithelial cells.

Methods::
Many sources were used to collect information about Butyrate, such as Pub med, Google
Scholar, Pubmed, Scopus and other reliable sources.

:
Endogenous butyrate formation, absorption, and transportation by colon cells have now been well
acknowledged. Butyrate exerts its action features by way of appearing as a histone deacetylase inhibitor,
even signaling through a few protein receptors. Lately, butyrate has received special consideration
for its favorable result on intestinal equilibrium and also energy metabolism. There is a
growing interest in butyrate as its impact on epigenetic mechanisms will result in much more certain
and also efficacious healing techniques for the prevention and therapy of various diseases that
range from genetic conditions to other body disorders.

Conclusion::
With this assessment, we compile the existing information on the attributes of butyrate,
particularly its potential effects and also mechanisms involved in cancer, inflammation, diabetes
mellitus, neurological and cardiovascular disorder.
Microplastics: An Emerging and Challenging Research Field
Authors: Hernández-Sánchez Cintia , González-Sálamo Javier , Ortega-Zamora Cecilia , Jiménez-Skrzypek Gabriel , Hernández-Borges Javier 
Published: November 2020

Background:
Studies have confirmed the ubiquitous presence of microplastics in every environmental compartment, and their number is rising year by year. Despite the fact that important efforts are being made in many countries to try to reduce microplastics contamination, it is very likely that their presence will continue to increase since plastic degradation is a long-term procedure. Current scientific data in this field is only the tip of a huge iceberg in which hand in hand research with scientists of different disciplines is absolutely necessary to draw a clear map of their origin, transport dynamics, distribution and effects.

Methods:
A brief overview (perspective article) of current research topics on microplastics, the problems that they must face as well as those gaps that should be solved in the future are reviewed.

Results:
Standardized and validated methodologies for microplastics quantification and identification are needed. The analysis of organic and inorganic contaminants retained onto microplastics is also a key issue. The study of the presence, behavior, and fate of microplastics in the environment (in all the environmental compartments) as well as the toxicity and dietary exposure studies are also highly necessary.

Conclusion:
A better understanding of the concentration, source, and hazards of microplastics in every environmental compartment is still needed, especially in the terrestrial environment and in the atmosphere. There is also the need of applying harmonized and validated analytical methodologies to provide feasible results and to allow a suitable comparison.
Modulation of Proinflammatory Bacteria- and Lipid-Coupled Intracellular Signaling Pathways in a Transwell Triple Co-Culture Model by Commensal Bifidobacterium Animalis R101-8
Authors: Ghadimi Darab , Nielsen Annegret , Hassan Mohamed Farghaly Yoness , Fölster-Holst Regina , Ebsen Michael , Frahm Sven Olaf , Röcken Christoph , de Vrese Michael , Heller Knut J. 
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims:
Following a fat-rich diet, alterations in gut microbiota contribute
to enhanced gut permeability, metabolic endotoxemia, and low grade inflammation–associated
metabolic disorders. To better understand whether commensal bifidobacteria influence the expression
of key metaflammation-related biomarkers (chemerin, MCP-1, PEDF) and modulate the
pro-inflammatory bacteria- and lipid–coupled intracellular signaling pathways, we aimed at i) investigating
the influence of the establishment of microbial signaling molecules-based cell-cell contacts
on the involved intercellular communication between enterocytes, immune cells, and adipocytes,
and ii) assessing their inflammatory mediators’ expression profiles within an inflamed adipose
tissue model.

Material and Methods:
Bifidobacterium animalis R101-8 and Escherichia coli TG1, respectively,
were added to the apical side of a triple co-culture model consisting of intestinal epithelial
HT-29/B6 cell line, human monocyte-derived macrophage cells, and adipose-derived stem cell line
in the absence or presence of LPS or palmitic acid. mRNA expression levels of key lipid
metabolism genes HILPDA, MCP-1/CCL2, RARRES2, SCD, SFRP2 and TLR4 were determined
using TaqMan qRT-PCR. Protein expression levels of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α), key
metaflammation-related biomarkers including adipokines (chemerin and PEDF), chemokine (MCP-
1) as well as cellular triglycerides were assessed by cell-based ELISA, while those of p-ERK,
p-JNK, p-p38, NF-κB, p-IκBα, pc-Fos, pc-Jun, and TLR4 were assessed by Western blotting.

Results:
B. animalis R101-8 inhibited LPS- and palmitic acid-induced protein expression of inflammatory
cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α concomitant with decreases in chemerin, MCP-1, PEDF, and
cellular triglycerides, and blocked NF-kB and AP-1 activation pathway through inhibition of p-
IκBα, pc-Jun, and pc-Fos phosphorylation. B. animalis R101-8 downregulated mRNA and protein
levels of HILPDA, MCP-1/CCL2, RARRES2, SCD and SFRP2 and TLR4 following exposure to
LPS and palmitic acid.

Conclusion:
B. animalis R101-8 improves biomarkers of metaflammation through at least two
molecular/signaling mechanisms triggered by pro-inflammatory bacteria/lipids. First, B. animalis
R101-8 modulates the coupled intracellular signaling pathways via metabolizing saturated fatty
acids and reducing available bioactive palmitic acid. Second, it inhibits NF-kB’s and AP-1’s transcriptional
activities, resulting in the reduction of pro-inflammatory markers. Thus, the molecular
basis may be formed by which commensal bifidobacteria improve intrinsic cellular tolerance
against excess pro-inflammatory lipids and participate in homeostatic regulation of metabolic processes
in vivo.