bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exosomes Derived from Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Activate PTEN/AKT Pathway and Promote Repair of Damaged Endometrium
Authors: Wang Jianye , Dong Liu , Xu Xuan , Jiang Xiaohua , Li Ziwei , Xing Qiong , Zhang Zhiguo , Zhou Ping , Cao Yunxia , Wei Zhaolian 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
BackgroundEndometrial injury contributes to impaired endometrial receptivity, and is well recognized as a critical factor in implantation failure. Increasing evidence suggests that the therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) mainly depend on their capacity to secrete paracrine factors and are mediated by MSC-derived exosomes (MSC-Exos). In this study, we aimed to explore the effects of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (hUCMSC-Exos) on injured endometrium in the mouse endometrial damage model and the potential mechanisms for these effects.MethodsAll female mice were randomly divided into control group, saline group, and exosome group. To observe the distribution of exosomes in vivo, DiR-labeled hUCMSC-Exos were injected into the tail vein of endometrium-injured mice. HE staining was used to detect changes in endometrial thickness and number of glands. TUNEL staining was used to detect cells apoptosis. The expression of Ki67 and CD31 was examined by immunohistochemistry. Then, western blotting was used to measure the expression of Bcl-2, Bax, Cleaved Caspase-3, PTEN, AKT and p-AKT. The expression of VEGF and IGF-1 was detected by RT-PCR.ResultshUCMSC-Exos was able to migrate to the damaged endometrium. After hUCMSC-Exos injection, the endometrial thickness and the number of glands were significantly increased (P< 0.05). Compared with the saline group, apoptosis was significantly reduced in the exosome group, and the expression of Ki67 and CD31 was significantly increased (P< 0.05). Besides, the expression of Bax, Cleaved Caspase-3 and PTEN was reduced as hUCMSC-Exos addition, and the Bcl-2 and p-Akt expression was increased. The expression of VEGF and IGF-1 was significantly upregulated in the exosome group compared to the saline group (P< 0.05).ConclusionshUCMSC-Exos ameliorated the damaged uterus, increased endometrial thickness, suppressed apoptosis and improved the cell proliferation in the mouse injured endometrium model. Furthermore, we discovered that hUCMSC-Exos could activate the PTEN/AKT signaling pathways and induce the overexpression of VEGF and IGF-1 in vivo.
Identification of Ferroptosis-Related Gene Signatures Associated With Multiple Sclerosis Using Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis
Authors: Gu Sichun , Zhang Yan , Gu Chao , Yuan Can-Xing 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of central nervous system leading to demyelination followed by neurological symptoms. Ferroptosis is a newly discovered pathogenic hallmark important for the progression of MS. However, the gene markers of ferroptosis in MS are still uncertain. Methods: In this study, mRNA expression profiles and clinical data of MS samples were retrieved from Gene Expression Omnibus database. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were utilized to identify ferroptosis-related gene (FRG) signatures of MS. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) were performed to explore the biological functions of single FRG signature. Results: HMOX1, LPCAT3 and RPL8 were firstly identified as FRG signatures of MS with the predictive capacity confirmed. GSEA and GSVA analyses revealed that metabolism-related, immune and inflammation-related, microglia-related, oxidation-related, and mitochondria-related biological functions were enriched, providing implications of the mechanisms underlying ferroptosis in MS. Conclusions: This study presented a systematic analysis of FRG in MS and explored the potential ferroptosis targets for new interventional strategies in MS.
Preparation and Characterization of PVDF/g-C3N4/chitosan Nanocomposite Membrane for the Removal of Direct Blue 14 Dye
Authors: Hasanzade Parya , Gharbani Parvin , Derakhshan Fahime , Maher Behnaz Memar 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/g-C3N4/Chitosan thin film membranes were prepared for removal of Direct Blue 14 dye (an anionic dye) from aqueous solutions. PVDF/g-C3N4/Chitosan membranes were prepared by immersing of PVDF/g-C3N4 membrane in solution containing various concentrations of chitosan. The resulting membranes were characterized by XRD, FESEM, TEM and AFM. Also, pure water flux, salt rejection, water content, antifouling properties of prepared membranes were investigated. The resulting demonstrate that pure water flux was decreased by increasing of chitosan concentration, while water content, antifouling properties and salt rejection were increased. It is found that chitosan has major impact on the membrane structural properties due to transform of the PVDF membrane into hydrophilic ones. It is reported that maximum 93% rejection of Direct Blue 14 was obtained by PVDF/g-C3N4/Chitosan membrane. Compared to the PVDF/g-C3N4 membrane, the experimental results showed that PVDF/g-C3N4/Chitosan membranes demonstrated high potential mainly due to greater hydrophilicity and further minimizing membrane fouling.
The Effect of High Salt Diet in Renal Fibrosis Through CHOP Protein Stimulated Apoptosis in Rat Model
Authors: Ghadimi Darya , Khadive Tooka , Hemmati Mina , Golshahi Hannaneh , Ehtesham Meysam 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
І. Background: Prolonged excessive salt intake is an important risk factor for development of renal fibrosis. In the onset of renal tubular destruction, KIM-1 appears in urine. CHOP is an important apoptosis stimulator protein. The aim of present study was to investigate the effect of high salt diet in development of renal fibrosis through apoptosis.ІІ. Methods and results: The 25 male Wistar rats were divided randomly into five groups and treated with 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.2%, 1.5% of NaCl dissolved in distilled water for 8 weeks. For confirmation of renal tubular destruction, the urinary KIM-1 was measured. The slides of renal tissue were prepared and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin and Masson´s Trichrome for fibrosis detection. To investigate the role of CHOP protein in development of renal tubulointerstitial destruction, the relative gene expression of CHOP in renal tissue was analyzed using qRT-PCR method.There was no significant differences in urea, creatinine and total protein concentration of rats received different concentrations of NaCl compared to the control group. Urinary KIM-1 and mRNA level of CHOP was found to be increased significantly in rats treated with 1.5% NaCl compared to the control group. Mild renal fibrosis was observed in the same group too.III. Conclusion: Excessive salt intake can lead to fibrosis through increasing the expression of apoptotic CHOP gene in renal tissue. KIM-1 can be detectable in urine long before the development of renal fibrosis.
Reduction of primary graft dysfunction using cytokine filtration following acute respiratory distress syndrome in lung transplantation
Authors: Ghaidan Haider , Stenlo Martin , Gvazava Nika , Niroomand Anna , Edstrom Dag , Silva Iran , Broberg Ellen , Hallgren Oskar , Olm Franziska , Pierre Leif , Wagner Darcy , Hyllen Snejana , Lindstedt Sandra 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Despite improvements, lung transplantation (LTx) remains hampered by both a scarcity of donor organs and by mortality following primary graft dysfunction (PGD). Since acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) limits donor lungs utilization, we investigated cytokine filtration as a means of restoring ARDS donor lungs. We induced mild to moderate ARDS using lipopolysaccharide in 12 donor pigs. Lungs were then treated with or without cytokine filtration during ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) and post-transplantation using extracorporeal hemoperfusion. The treatment significantly decreased cytokine levels during EVLP and decreased levels of immune cells post-transplantation. Histology demonstrated fewer signs of lung injury across both treatment periods and the incidence of PGD was significantly reduced among treated animals. Overall, cytokine filtration was able to restore lung function and reduce PGD in lung transplantation. We suggest this treatment will increase the availability of donor lungs and increase the tolerability of donor lungs in the recipient.
Molecular Diversity in Lactuca Species Using Isozymes and RAPD Markers
Authors: Sammour Reda H. Helmy , Mustafa A-Z. A. , El-Esawi M. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: understanding molecular diversity in Lactuca species is substantial for the management, improvement and efficient uses of their accessions. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate molecular diversity among and within Lactuca species. Methods and Results: the molecular diversity was assessed using isozymes and RAPD analyses that gave 87.09% and 100% polymorphic percentages respectively, indicating a high genetic variation within and among Lactuca species. The number of alleles were higher in the wild species compared to the cultivated species, reflecting a reduction in the richness of alleles in the cultivated species due to domestication that caused a reduction in genetic diversity to meet the demand for high crop productivity. Isozymes and RAPD clustering dendrogrames: (1) separated, L. sativa accessions in more than one cluster confirming their polyphyletic origin; (2) collected the accessions of L. viminea in one cluster revealed its homogeneity; and (3) divided the accessions of L. saligna in two clusters varied in the number of alleles, particularly “A” form. The corresponding analysis associated the accessions of the wild species based on “B” form of the alleles of the tested isozymes, and the cultivated species on the forms “A” and “C”, suggesting that: (1) allele “B” might be the primitive form of these loci that can tolerate the environmental stresses which prevails in the habitats of the wild species, and (2) forms “A” and “C” could be the derived forms. Conclusions: These results are of great interest for the management of Lactuca germplasm and for future breeding programs of lettuce.
Telomerase Prevents Emphysema in Old Mice by Sustaining Subpopulations of Endothelial and AT2 Cells
Authors: Breau Marielle , Cayrou Christelle , Churikov Dmitri , Fouillade Charles , Curras-Alonso Sandra , Bauwens Serge , Jourquin Frederic , Braud Laura , Fiore Frederic , Castellano Remy , Josselin Emmanuelle , Sanchez-Ferrer Carlotta , Giovinazzo Giovanna , Gilson Eric , Flores Ignacio , Londono-Vallejo Arturo , Adnot Serge , Geli Vincent 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Accumulation of senescent cells has been causally linked to the development of age-related pathologies. Here, we characterized a new mouse model (p21+/Tert) whose telomerase (TERT) is expressed from the p21 promoter that can be activated in response to telomere dysfunction. Lung parenchyma from p21+/Tert old mice accumulated fewer senescent cells with age and this correlated with a reduction in age-related alveolar space enlargement, a feature of pulmonary emphysema. This protection against emphysema depends on TERT catalytic activity and is associated with increased proliferation of pulmonary endothelial cells (EC) and capillary density. Single-cell RNA sequencing of lung cells revealed that TERT expression was associated with the enrichment of ECs expressing genes involved in vessel regeneration and in AT2 cells overexpressing S/G2M markers. These findings indicate that p21-promoter-dependent expression of catalytically active telomerase prevents emphysema by sustaining the proliferation of subclasses of EC and AT2 cells.
Between Group-Level Minimally Important Change and Individual Treatment Responders
Authors: Hays® Ron D. , Peipert John Devin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Purpose

Estimates of the minimally important change (MIC) can be used to evaluate whether group-level differences are large enough to be important. But responders to treatment have been based upon group-level MIC thresholds, resulting in inaccurate classification of change over time. This article reviews options and provides suggestions about individual-level statistics to assess whether individuals have improved, stayed the same, or declined.

Methods

Review of MIC estimation and an example of misapplication of MIC group-level estimates to assess individual change. Secondary data analyses to show how perceptions about meaningful change can be used along with significance of individual change.

Results

MIC thresholds yield over-optimistic conclusions (i.e., classify those who have not changed as responders to treatment). Individual change statistics can be used along with individual retrospective ratings of change.

Conclusions

Future studies need to evaluate the significance of individual change using appropriate individual-level statistics such as the reliable change index or the equivalent coefficient of repeatability.
A rapidly evolving high-amplitude δ Scuti star crossing the Hertzsprung Gap
Authors: Niu Jia-Shu , Xue Hui-Fang 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
People cannot witness the stellar evolution process of a single star obviously in most cases because of its extremely secular time-scale, except for some special time nodes in it (such as the supernova explosion [1]). But in some specific evolutionary phases, we have the chances to witness such process gradually on human times-scales. When a star evolved leaving from the main sequence, the hydrogen nuclei fusion in its core is gradually transferring into the shell. In the Hertzsprung–Russell diagram, its evolutionary phase falls into the Hertzsprung gap, which is one of the most rapidly evolving phases in the life of a star [2]. Here we report a discovery of a rapidly evolving high-amplitude δ Scuti star KIC6382916 (J19480292+4146558) which is crossing the Hertzsprung gap. According to the analysis of the archival data, we find three independent pulsation modes of it, whose amplitudes and frequencies are variating distinctly in 4 years. The period variation rates of the three pulsation modes are one or two orders larger than the best seismic model constructed by the standard evolution theory, which indicates the current theory cannot precisely describe the evolution process in this rapidly evolving phase and needs further upgrades. Moreover, the frequency and amplitude interactions between the three independent pulsation modes and their harmonics/combinations open a new window to the future asteroseismology.
An Assessment of Smallholder Farmer’s Status in the Capricorn District in Limpopo Province, South Africa.
Authors: Maponya Phokele 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
This paper point the state of smallholder farmers in terms of the socio economic, support and yielding statuses in the Capricorn District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study used a representative sample consisting of 50 smallholder farmers, with 546 beneficiaries participating in the research. Four local municipalities were visited, namely: Polokwane, Molemole, Lepelle – Nkumpi and Blouberg. Quantitative and qualitative plan was used as a detailed questionnaire written in English. Focus group discussion, a stakeholder’s discussion, and field observations were used. A purposive sampling technique was used to select fifty (50) smallholder farmers and data was coded, captured and analysed with a software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 20). Descriptive and Correlations analysis results showed a significant association among the following variables: Crops planted, Size of land, Source of water, Type of market and Land acquisition. The results also indicated that natural resources like land and water are the prerequisite for a smallholder farmer to engage in agricultural production. This will enable smallholder farmers to plant different crops and to identify market opportunities. It is recommended that organisations that oversee the improvement of socio economic conditions, policy, food security and rural development should use the results of this study as a guide for their planning and decision making for improved smallholder farmers’ livelihoods.
Complete TURBT before Radical Cystectomy is not a Risk Factor for Organ-Confined Bladder Cancer: A Case Control Study
Authors: Luo Mingrui , Xu Zhan-ping , Lin Zhi-jun , Qin Zi-ke , Ye Yun-lin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background To investigate the role of complete transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) before radical cystectomy for organ-confined bladder cancer.Patients and MethodsPatients who underwent radical cystectomy (RC) in our center from January 2008 to December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Those with disease >T2N0M0 or positive surgical margin and those who were administrated neoadjuvant/adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy were excluded. Complete TURBT was defined as no visible lesion under endoscopic examination after TURBT or specimen of RC. Kaplan–Meier and log-rank tests assessed disease-free survival. Logistic and Cox regression analysis were performed to identify potential predictors.ResultsIn total, 236 patients were included, and 207 patients were male. The median age was 61 years old. The median number and size were 1 and 3cm respectively, and maximal pathological T stage was T2 in 94 patients. Complete TURBT was related to tumor size (p=0.041), histological variants (p=0.026) and downstaging (p<0.001). Tumor size, grade and histological variants were independent predictors of complete TURBT. With a median follow-up of 42.7 months, 30 patients experienced recurrence. Age and histological variantswere independent predictors of disease-free survival (p=0.022 and 0.032, respectively), and complete TURBT was not an independent predictor of disease-free survival (p=0.156). Downstaging was not associated with survival outcome.Conclusions Complete TURBT is related to an increased rate of downstaging before radical cystectomy, and it was not associated with better oncological outcomes for patients with organ-confined bladder cancer.
Alteration of Gut Microbiome in Lung Cancer Patients- A Pilot Study&nbsp;
Authors: Li Ming , Yu Fang , Chen Xiaohui , Zhou Huan , Liu Yinhui , Liu Yuanyu , Tang Li , Yuan Jieli , Wen Shu , Chen Jun 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death. Better understanding of factors and pathways involved in lung cancer is needed to improve diagnose and treatment strategies. Recent studies have provided insights into the possible correlation between intestinal dysbiosis and cancer development. Although the immunological relationship between gut and lung had been suggested by many researches, however, to date, no study had investigated the characterization of gut microbiome in treatment naïve lung cancer patients, whether it is distinct from that of health individuals and contribute to the onset and development of lung cancer remain unclear. In this study, we investigated whether gut microbiome of lung cancer patients (LC, n=28) is altered compare with that of matched healthy individuals (HC, n=19) by high throughout sequencing of the V3-V4 regions of 16S rDNA in their fecal samples. We also identified microbiota signatures specific for different histological types of lung cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), adenocarcinoma (ADC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). 16S rDNA sequencing results showed that the gut microbiome of lung cancer patients is characterized by decreased relative abundance of Prevotella, and increased bacteria groups such as Actinomyces, and Streptococcus, etc. We also detected an obvious structural shift in gut microbiome between ADC and SCLC patients. However, given the limited number of study cases, the association between microbial dysbiosis and lung cancer is not clearly understood, future studies involving larger cohorts and metagenomics, or metabolomics, may elucidate the correlations between gut microbiota and lung cancer development.
Pharmaceutical Quality of Antimalarial Drugs: Quinine Sulfate and Artemether/lumefantrine Tablets Sold on Bukavu Market&nbsp;
Authors: Mahano Aladin Ombeni , Mahano Aline Zawadi , Cubaka Nelson Hendwa , Kasali Félicien Mushagalusa , Zirirane Benjamin Bavurhe , Namegabe Lucien Murhula , Hamuli Pacifique Murhula , Kadima Ntokamunda Justin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Malaria is a tropical parasitic disease caused by Plasmodium species, mainly falciparum, transmitted by the female Anopheles mosquito, strongly affecting sub-Saharan Africa and Indian areas. Generic antimalarial drugs sold in these regions require tighter quality control as counterfeiting has grown more and more out of control. The study aimed to analyze the pharmaceutical quality of Quinine sulfate and Artemether/Lumefantrine tablets marketed in Bukavu city compared to current trends in other African cities. Methods: We set up 13 simple TLC and UV spectrometric quality-control tests and applied them to analyze five Quinine brands divided into 12 batches and two Artemether/Lumefantrine brands divided into 12 batches. Quality scores were expressed as a percentage of compliance with each or the whole set of 13 tests. The samples were collected from community pharmacies and ambulatory street vendors. For comparison, available literature data related to the subject was retrieved from Google Scholar and PubMed search. Results: The analysis showed 16.6% of QS batches failed quality specifications concerning hardness, friability, and uniformity of mass; 66.6% failed the disintegration test; 33.3% did not contain quinine, and 8.33% had an active ingredient other than quinine. Only 3 batches exhibited a global score >90%. For Artemether/Lumefantrine, 93% of batches had an acceptable quality score >90%. Conclusion: The findings strongly support literature data from many countries. Simple TLC procedures may help to detect any low-quality generics to avoid microbial resistance and guarantee the health of the population. Pharmacists and regulatory authorities are alerted to the circulation of low-quality generic quinine preparations in the country.
Molecular Investigation of Canine Babesiosis in and Around Bhubaneswar, India
Authors: Panda Charchika , Dehuri Manaswini , Panda Mitra Ranjan , Sahoo Lakshman Kumar , Mohanty Bijayendranath 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Canine babesiosis, a hemolytic protozoan disease represents an important veterinary problem caused primarily by large and small forms of piroplasms of Babesia spp. A molecular-based survey on the overall occurrence of natural Babesia infection in stray(n=98 ) and pet dogs(n=100) from Bhubaneswar and nearby areas using PCR technique targeting 18s RNA gene fragment along with genetic sequence analysis was carried out. A total of 38 (pet:22, stray:16) samples (19.19%) were found positive for babesiosis based on the amplification of 450 bp amplicon region of the gene while 4 samples (0.02%) showed co-infection with Hepatozoon canis. The sequenced PCR products were submitted to NCBI ,and on BLAST analysis the isolates with accession no KT246303, KT246306, KT246307 showing similarity with Babesia vogeli, while KT246305 was identical to B.gibsoni isolates and KT246304 was identical to Hepatozoon canis. This is the first report on the molecular diagnosis of canine babesiosis in the state. PCR assay was found to be more precise over microscopic diagnosis, the use of more specific and sensitive tests along with more samples could aid in a better understanding of the epidemiology of canine babesiosis in this region.