bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
NMDA Receptor-mediated CaMKII/ERK Activation Contributes to Renal Fibrosis
Authors: Zhou Jingyi , Liu Shuaihui , Guo Luying , Wang Rending , Chen Jianghua , Shen Jia 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Renal fibrosis (RF) results in renal function impairment and eventually kidney failure. We found that N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) played an important role during RF. However, its mechanism of action is yet to be deciphered. Methods: Acute RF was induced in mice by unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). NR1, which is the functional subunit of NMDAR, was downregulated using lentiviral vector-mediated shRNA interference. Histological changes were observed by Masson’s trichrome staining. Expression of NR1, fibrotic and EMT markers were measured by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. HK-2 cells were incubated with TGF-β, and NMDAR antagonist MK-801 and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) antagonist KN-93 administration were further included in this study for pathway determination. Expression of NR1, total and phosphorylated CaMKII, total and phosphorylated ERK were measured using western blot and immunofluorescent assays. Chronic renal fibrosis was introduced by sublethal ischemia-reperfusion injury in mice, and oral NMDAR inhibitor dextromethorphan (DXM) administration was performed. Results: NR1 expressions were upregulated in both obstructed kidneys and TGF-β treated HK-2 cells. NR1 knockdown, MK801 and KN93 reduced the fibrotic morphology in vivo and in vitro respectively, and companied with the downregulated ERK activation, while KN93 administration had no effect on NR1 and CaMKII levels. Mice in the DXM group had better preservation of kidney structures and corticomedullary volumes. Conclusions: NMDAR participates in both acute and chronic renal fibrogenesis via CaMKII/ERK activation, and is a potential therapeutic target for renal fibrosis.
Myxoid stroma is associated with postoperative relapse in patients with stage II colon cancer
Authors: Okuyama Takashi , Sameshima Shinichi , Takeshita Emiko , Mitsui Takashi , Noro Takuji , Ono Yuko , Noie Tamaki , Ban Shinichi , Oya Masatoshi 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Fibrosis surrounding cancer cells has been shown to affect cancer cell metastatic behavior. The present study aimed to explore the utility of myxoid stroma as a predictive factor for postoperative relapse in patients with stage II colon cancer.Methods: The present study retrospectively investigated 169 patients who underwent curative surgical resection of stage II colon cancer. The fibrotic stroma was classified according to Ueno’s criteria, and the patients were divided into the myxoid (MY) group and the non-MY (NMY) group. We also recorded tumor budding (TB) and investigated the combination of MY and TB for postoperative relapse. Postoperative survival was also explored.Results: Thirty-two (18.9%) patients had MY. MY was significantly associated with tumor budding (TB) and postoperative relapse (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). The 5-year RFS rates in MY group and NMY group were 52.1% and 94.6% (p<0.0001), and the 5-year OS rates in MY group and NMY group were 74.6% and 93.3% (p=0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that both MY and TB were significant risk factors for postoperative relapse (; p<0.001, and p=0.02, respectively). Furthermore, compared with patients with either one of MY or TB, patients with both MY and TB had postoperative relapse significantly more frequently (11.4% vs. 53.8%).Conclusions: The present study suggests that MY is a predictive marker for postoperative relapse in patients with stage II colon cancer.
Transcriptome analysis and molecular mechanism of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) drought tolerance under repeated drought using single-molecule long-read sequencing
Authors: Wang Wei , Wang Lei , Wang Ling , Tan Meilian , Ogutu Collins O. , Yin Ziyan , Zhou Jian , Wang Jiaomei , Wang Lijun , Yan Xingchu 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Oil flax (linseed, Linum usitatissimum L.) is one of the most important oil crops., However, the increases in drought resulting from climate change have dramatically reduces linseed yield and quality, but very little is known about how linseed coordinates the expression of drought resistance gene in response to different level of drought stress (DS) on the genome-wide level.Results: To explore the linseed transcriptional response of DS and repeated drought (RD) stress, we determined the drought tolerance of different linseed varieties. Then we performed full-length transcriptome sequencing of drought-resistant variety (Z141) and drought-sensitive variety (NY-17) under DS and RD stress at the seedling stage using single-molecule real-time sequencing and RNA-sequencing. Gene Ontology (GO) and reduce and visualize GO (REVIGO) enrichment analysis showed that upregulated genes of Z141 were enriched in more functional pathways related to plant drought tolerance than those of NY-17 were under DS. In addition, 4436 linseed transcription factors were identified, and 1190 were responsive to stress treatments. Moreover, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis showed that the proline biosynthesis pathway interacts with stress response genes through RAD50 (DNA repair protein 50) interacting protein 1 (RIN-1). Finally, proline biosynthesis and DNA repair structural gene expression patterns were verified by RT- PCR.Conclusions: The drought tolerance of Z141 may be related to its upregulation of drought tolerance genes under DS. Proline may play an important role in linseed drought tolerance by maintaining cell osmotic and protecting DNA from ROS damage.. In summary, this study provides a new perspective to understand the drought adaptability of linseed.
Co-relation with novel phosphorylation sites of IκBα andnecroptosis in breast cancer cells
Authors: Choi Sung Hoon , Yoon Hee-sub , Yun Sung Ho , Park Joo-Hee , Han Eun Hee , Chi Sung-Gil , Chung Young Ho 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: The phosphorylation of NF-kappaB inhibitor alpha (IκBα) protein is pivotal to the regulation of NF-κB transcription factor activity in the cell. The phosphorylation of IκBα by IκB kinase family have been so many identified, but the phosphorylation sites of IκBα by other kinases remain poorly understood. We investigated the new phosphorylation site for IκBα and identified its biological function in breast cancer cells. Methods: Previously we observed that aurora kinase (AURK) binds IκBα in the cell. To identify the essential domains of IκBα for phosphorylation of IκBα by AURK, kinase assay was performed with a series of IκBα truncation mutants. AURK significantly promotes activation of IκBα at serine 32, but not serine 36 residues, unlike IκB kinase (IKK) family proteins activate both IκBα serine residues. We also confirmed phosphorylation of IκBα by the matrix-assisted laser-desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF MS) and nano-liquid chromatography hybrid quadrupole-Orbitrap mass spectrometer (nanoLC-MS/MS; Q Exactive). Results: We identified two novel sites of serine phosphorylation at S63 and S262. Alanine transition of S63 and S262 (S63A and S262A) of IκBα induced inhibition of cell proliferation and suppression of p65 transcription activity. Besides, S63A and/or S262A of IκBα regulated apoptotic and necroptic effects in breast cancer cells. Conclusions: Therefore, we identified novel phosphorylation site of IκBα by AURK, and its site was related to apoptosis and necroptosis pathway in breast cancer cells.
Low-arginine and low-protein diets induce hepatic lipid accumulation through different mechanisms in growing rats
Authors: Otani Lila , Nishi Hiroki , Koyama Ayaka , Akasaka Yuta , Taguchi Yusuke , Toyoshima Yuka , Yamanaka Daisuke , Hakuno Fumihiko , Jia Huijuan , Takahashi Shin-Ichiro , Kato Hisanori 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Dietary protein deficiency and amino acid imbalance cause hepatic fat accumulation. We previously demonstrated that only arginine deficiency or total amino acid deficiency in a diet caused significant hepatic triglyceride (TG) accumulation in young Wistar rats. In this study, we explored the mechanisms of fatty liver formation in these models.Methods: We fed 6-week-old male Wistar rats a control diet (containing an amino acid mixture equivalent to 15% protein), a low-total-amino acid diet (equivalent to 5% protein; 5PAA), and a low-arginine diet (only the arginine content is as low as that of the 5PAA diet) for 2 weeks.Results: Much greater hepatic TG accumulation was observed in the low-arginine group than in the low-total-amino acid group. The lipid consumption rate and fatty acid uptake in the liver did not significantly differ between the groups. In contrast, the low-total-amino acid diet potentiated insulin sensitivity and related signaling in the liver and enhanced de novo lipogenesis. The low-arginine diet also inhibited hepatic very-low-density lipoprotein secretion without affecting hepatic insulin signaling and lipogenesis.Conclusions: Although the arginine content of the low-arginine diet was as low as that of the low-total-amino acid diet, the two diets caused fatty liver via completely different mechanisms. Enhanced lipogenesis was the primary cause of a low-protein diet-induced fatty liver, whereas lower very-low-density lipoprotein secretion caused low-arginine diet-induced fatty liver.
Persons post-stroke improve step length symmetry by walking asymmetrically
Authors: Padmanabhan Purnima , Sreekanth Keerthana , Gulhar Shivam , Cherry-Allen Kendra M. , Leech Kristan A. , Roemmich Ryan T. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background

Restoration of step length symmetry is a common rehabilitation goal after stroke. Persons post-stroke often retain the ability to walk with symmetric step lengths ("symmetric steps"); however, the resulting walking pattern remains effortful. Two key questions with direct implications for rehabilitation have emerged: 1) how do persons post-stroke generate symmetric steps, and 2) why do symmetric steps remain so effortful? Here, we aimed to understand how persons post-stroke generate symmetric steps and explored how the resulting gait pattern may relate to the metabolic cost of transport.

Methods

We recorded kinematic, kinetic, and metabolic data as nine persons post-stroke walked on an instrumented treadmill under two conditions: preferred walking and symmetric stepping (using visual feedback).

Results

Gait kinematics and kinetics remained markedly asymmetric even when persons post-stroke improved step length symmetry. Impaired paretic propulsion and aberrant movement of the center of mass were evident during both preferred walking and symmetric stepping. These deficits contributed to diminished positive work performed by the paretic limb on the center of mass in both conditions. Within each condition, decreased positive paretic work correlated with increased metabolic cost of transport and decreased walking speed across participants.

Conclusions

It is critical to consider the mechanics used to restore symmetric steps when designing interventions to improve walking after stroke. Future research should consider the many dimensions of asymmetry in post-stroke gait, and additional within-participant manipulations of gait parameters are needed to improve our understanding of the elevated metabolic cost of walking after stroke.
Understanding long-term HIV survivorship among African American/Black and Latinx persons living with HIV in the United States: A qualitative exploration through the lens of symbolic violence
Authors: Freeman Robert , Gwadz Marya , Wilton Leo , Collins Linda M. , Dorsen Caroline , Hawkins Robert L. , Silverman Elizabeth , Martinez Belkis Y. , Leonard Noelle R. , Applegate Amanda , Cluesman Sabrina 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background

Persons living with HIV (PLWH) are living longer, although racial/ethnic and socioeconomic status (SES) disparities persist. Yet, little is known about successful HIV management over decades. To address this gap, the present study took a qualitative approach and used the lens of symbolic violence, a type of internalized, non-physical violence manifested in the power differential between social groups. We focused on adult African American/Black and Hispanic/Latinx (AABHL) PLWH from low SES-backgrounds.

Methods

Data were drawn from two studies with AABHL PLWH in New York City ( N =59). After providing signed informed consent, participants engaged in in-depth semi-structured interviews on aspects of HIV management. Interviews were audio-recorded and professionally transcribed verbatim, and data were analyzed using a systematic content analysis approach.

Results

Participants in the two studies were comparable on sociodemographic and HIV history characteristics. They had lived with HIV for 20 years, on average (range 3-33 years). All were from low-SES backgrounds and most were African American/Black and men. Participants experienced a convergence of multiple intersecting social exclusions, harms, and stigmas, consistent with symbolic violence, which contributed to disengagement from HIV care and medications. We found five specific sub-themes: (1) material, social, and emotional challenges combined to “grind down” participants over time and diminish self-worth and even, at times, the will to live, (2) social isolation and self-isolation, based in part on feeling devalued and dehumanized, served as both a stigma-avoidance strategy and a mechanism of social exclusion, (3) stigmatizing aspects of patient-provider interactions, both experienced and anticipated, and (4) perceived restricted autonomy in HIV care reduced engagement, and (5) poor HIV management was internalized as a personal failure. Importantly, resilience was also evident throughout the five sub-themes.

Conclusions

Symbolic violence is a useful framework for understanding the experiences of long-term HIV management/survivorship among AABHL PLWH from low-SES backgrounds. Aspects of symbolic violence are internalized over time (e.g., experiencing devaluation, dehumanization, loss of self-worth, and anticipated stigma), thereby impeding successful HIV management, including because avoiding HIV care and discontinuing HIV medications are primary coping strategies. Study findings have implications for interventions in community and health care settings.
Application of the thermal time model for different Typha domingensis populations
Authors: León Fanny Mabel Carhuancho , Cortijo Pedro Luis Aguado , Izquierdo María del Carmen Morató , Moncho María Teresa Castellanos 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Cattail (Typha domingensis Pers.) is a perennial emergent plant which is used in Green Floating Filters (GFFs), one of the most innovative systems of wastewater treatment to bioremediate eutrophic waters and produce biomass as biofuel feedstocks. The establishment of cattails in GFFs depends on the seed germination and plant responses under conditions of a new habitat. This study analysed the germination responses of four different populations of cattails through a thermal time model to know their basic parameters of germination and which population would be more adapted to the conditions tested.Results: Seeds from the Badajoz (Ba), Cuenca (Cu), Madrid (Ma), Seville (Se) and Toledo (To) populations were exposed to different thermal regimes (constant, and alternating temperatures between 15 and 30°C) and different darkness treatments (between 0 and 20 days with 24h dark photoperiod, then exposed to light with 12h light/dark photoperiod) to determine the parameters of the thermal model from germination levels in each treatment. To population was used to validate the thermal time parameters of other populations. Regardless of the other parameters, no germination occurred in total darkness. The mean value of base temperature (Tb) was 16.4±0.2°C in all treatments. Optimum temperature (To) values in Ma and Ba were 25°C, and those in Cu and Se were 22.5°C. The germination response decreased when the temperature approached Tb and increased when it was close to To. In comparison to alternating temperatures, constant temperatures had the highest germination response and lowest thermal time (θT(50)). Darkness treatments had a direct relationship with θT(50). The population origin also affected seed germination; Cu had the highest values of To and germination response but had a lower θT(50), which coincides with the lowest mean ambient temperatures. Conclusion : According to these results, the germination response of cattails was high in all populations under optimal conditions but was affected to a greater or lesser extent depending on thermal regimes, darkness treatments, and populations. The thermal time model allowed us to determine that To was between 22.5-25ºC and that Cu is the best population regarding the germination response under the conditions tested.
Tissue Doppler Imaging And Strain Rate Of The Left Atrial Lateral Wall: Age Related Variations And Comparison With Parameters Of Diastolic Function
Authors: Argento Laura Vanina , Travetto Carolina Mercedes , Colicigno Maria de las Mercedes , Marambio Gerardo , Gentile Silvia , Salvati Ana , Lax Jorge , Cianciulli Tomás 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Strain Rate Imaging (SRI) is one of the most used techniques to study left atrial (LA) and diastolic function. Its availability in low-income countries is diminished since it requires additional expensive software, among other limitations. In contrast, Tissue Doppler Imaging (TDI) is widely available and easy to use. We hypothesize TDI could detect changes in LA and diastolic function associated with age similarly to SRI. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of age on LA and diastolic function assessed by LA lateral wall TDI online by spectral pulse, and to compare them with age-related variations of LA SRI and other parameters of diastolic function in a population of healthy adults. Materials and Methods: Ninety-one healthy adults were prospectively evaluated. In apical four - chamber view the LA lateral wall was divided in three portions. Peak velocities of basal and mid portions were measured with TDI online by spectral pulse and with SRI by speckle tracking. A first positive wave (S'la and SRS) and two negative waves (E'la and SRE, and A'la and SRA respectively) were obtained. E'la/A'la ratio and SRE/SRA ratio were analyzed. The distribution of the variables by age subgroups was described and analyzed. Correlation analyses were performed. Results: The median age was 42 years old and 54.9% were female. E'la/A'la showed a negative good correlation with age. E'la/A'la and SRE/SRA ratios changed from > 1 to < 1 in the age group of 41 - 50 years old, while this occurred in the group of 51 - 60 years old for the E/A ratio. Lateral and septal mitral annulus E´ showed decrease with age and prolongation of E-wave deceleration time was observed in the age group over 61 years old. Conclusion: Normal values​​ according to age group of TDI of the LA lateral wall were obtained. Age-related changes in LA and diastolic function could be detected as early with TDI as with SRI. Future studies are required to explore if this method could be used to address in part LA or diastolic function in other populations with established cardiovascular disease or at risk of presenting it, which could be useful in low-income settings, where SRI is not available.
Finite Cell Method for functionally graded materials based onV-models and homogenized microstructures
Authors: Wassermann Benjamin , Korshunova Nina , Kollmannsberger Stefan , Rank Ernst , Elber Gershon 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
This paper proposes an extension of the nite cell method (FCM) to V-rep models, a novel geometric framework for volumetric representations. This combination of an embedded domain approach (FCM) and a new modelingframework (V-rep) forms the basis for an efficient and accurate simulation of mechanical artifacts, which are not only characterized by complex shapes but also by their non-standard interior structure. These types of objects gain more and more interest in the context of the new design opportunities opened by additive manufacturing, in particular when graded or micro-structured material is applied. Two different types of functionally graded materials (FGM) are considered: The rst one, multi-material FGM is described using the inherent property of V-rep models to assign different properties throughout the interior of a domain. The second, single-material FGM { which is heterogeneously micro-structured { characterizes the effective material behavior of representative volume elements by homogenization and performs large-scale simulations using the embedded domain approach.
Comparison Of Treatment Outcomes Between Epoch And Chop Regimens In Patients With Hiv Associated Nhl In A Low Resource Setting
Authors: Okello Clement Dove , Omoding Abrahams , Ddungu Henry , Mulumba Yusuf , Orem Jackson 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: The optimal chemotherapy regimen for treating HIV associated NHL in low resource settings is unknown. We conducted a retrospective study to describe survival rates, treatment response rates and adverse events in patients with HIV associated NHL treated with EPOCH and CHOP regimens at the Uganda Cancer Institute.Methods: A retrospective study of patients diagnosed with HIV and lymphoma and treated at the Uganda Cancer Institute from 2016 – 2018 was done.Results: One hundred eight patients treated with CHOP and 12 patients treated with EPOCH were analysed. Patients completing 6 or more cycles of chemotherapy were 51 (47%) in the CHOP group and 8 (67%) in the EPOCH group. One year overall survival (OS) rate in patients treated with CHOP was 54.5% (95% CI, 42.8 – 64.8) and 80.2% (95% CI, 40.3 – 94.8) in those treated with EPOCH. The observed survival rates differences were not statistically different between the two groups; hazard ratio, 0.43 (95% CI, 0.10 - 1.78; p=0.24). Factors associated with favourable survival were BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m2, (p=0.03) and completion of 6 or more cycles of chemotherapy, (p<0.001). The overall response rate was 40% in the CHOP group and 59% in the EPOCH group. Severe adverse events occurred in 19 (18%) patients in the CHOP group and 3 (25%) in the EPOCH group; these were neutropenia (CHOP=13, 12%; EPOCH=2, 17%), anaemia (CHOP=12, 12%; EPOCH=1, 8%), thrombocytopenia (CHOP=7, 6%; EPOCH=0), sepsis (CHOP=1), treatment related death (EPOCH=1) and hepatic encephalopathy (CHOP=1).Conclusion: Treatment of HIV associated NHL with curative intent using CHOP and infusional EPOCH is feasible in low resource settings and associated with >50% one year survival.