bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Intravenous Cell Therapy In Rats With Old Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Tang Xian-Liang , Wysoczynski Marcin , Gumpert Anna M. , Li Yan , Wu Wen-Jian , Li Hong , Stowers Heather , Bolli Roberto 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Mounting evidence shows that cell therapy provides therapeutic benefits in experimental and clinical settings of chronic heart failure. However, direct cardiac delivery of cells via transendocardial injection is logistically complex, expensive, entails risks, and is not amenable to multiple dosing. Intravenous administration would be a more convenient and clinically applicable route for cell therapy. Thus, we determined whether intravenous infusion of three widely used cell types improves left ventricular (LV) function and structure and compared their efficacy. Rats with a 30-day-old myocardial infarction (MI) received intravenous infusion of vehicle (PBS) or 1 of 3 types of cells: bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), cardiac mesenchymal cells (CMCs), and c-kit-positive cardiac cells (CPCs), at a dose of 12x106 cells. Rats were followed for 35 days after treatment to determine LV functional status by serial echocardiography and hemodynamic studies. Blood samples were collected for Hemavet analysis to determine inflammatory cell profile. LV ejection fraction (EF) dropped ≥20 points in all hearts at 30-day after MI and deteriorated further at 35-day follow-up in the vehicle-treated group. In contrast, deterioration of EF was halted in rats that received MSCs and attenuated in those that received CMCs or CPCs. None of the 3 types of cells significantly altered scar size, myocardial content of collagen or CD45-positive cells, or Hemavet profile. This study demonstrates that a single intravenous administration of 3 types of cells in rats with chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy is effective in attenuating the progressive deterioration in LV function. The extent of LV functional improvement was greatest with CPCs, intermediate with CMCs, and least with MSCs.
The Neutral Protease Immobilization: Physical Characterization of Sodium Alginate-chitosan Gel Beads
Authors: Bai Yuan , Wu Wei 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Sodium alginate and chitosan were cross-linked to form composite gel spheres, which were entrapped to immobilize the free neutral protease. The matrix of the immobilized neutral protease was detected and characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Energy Dispersive X-Ray. The optimum immobilization conditions were determined by orthogonal test, the sodium alginate was 3.5%, CaCl2 was 2.5%, chitosan was 2.5%, and immobilizing time was 1.5h. Meanwhile, the activities of immobilized neutral protease and free enzyme were compared. The results showed that the pH value of immobilized enzyme was 5-8, the relative activity was above 90%, the free enzyme was above 80%, the relative activity of immobilized enzyme was above 80% in 30 °C -80 °C, the free enzyme was above 64% in 40-80 °C. The immobilized enzyme is better than the free enzyme in the stability of pH and thermal. The relative activity of immobilized enzyme was 50% after six hydrolysis cycles, and 80% after 11 days of storage.
Staged graft replacement with thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair for an extensive thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm after total arch replacement: case series
Authors: Yoshida Kazufumi , Nakamura Ken , Ishigami Masanosuke , Kinoshita Makoto , Koyama Tadaaki 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
BackgroundOpen surgery for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm is highly invasive. Staged repair for extensive TAAA is effective because it has low morbidity and mortality, and preserves spinal cord perfusion. An initial total arch replacement can create a proximal landing zone for thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair.Case presentationWe performed a staged hybrid thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair after total arch replacement, which consisted of a primary open repair procedure that converted Crawford Extent I and II thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms into Crawford Extent III and IV thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms, and a secondary thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair for the residual lesions for four patients. No spinal cord injury was observed. In one patient, the residual descending aortic aneurysm ruptured six months after the primary open surgery.ConclusionsOverall, staged hybrid repair is effective and shows low morbidity and mortality. Secondary thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair should be performed as soon as possible to reduce the risk of residual aneurysm rupture.
The Implications of Treatment Delays In Adjuvant Therapy For Resected Cholangiocarcinoma Patients
Authors: Parsons Matthew , Lloyd Shane , Johnson Skyler , Scaife Courtney , Soares Heloisa , Kim Rebecca , Kim Robin , Garrido-Laguna Ignacio , Tao Randa 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Purpose: To understand factors associated with timing of adjuvant therapy for cholangiocarcinoma and the impact of delays on overall survival (OS).Methods: Data from the National Cancer Database (NCDB) for patients with non-metastatic bile duct cancer from 2004 to 2015 were analyzed. Patients were included only if they underwent surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy (RT). Patients who underwent neoadjuvant or palliative treatments were excluded. Pearson’s chi-squared test and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the distribution of demographic, clinical, and treatment factors. After propensity-score matching with inverse probability of treatment weighting, OS was compared between patients initiating therapy past various time points using Kaplan Meier analyses and doubly-robust estimation with multivariate Cox proportional hazards modeling.Results: In total, 7,733 of 17,363 (45%) patients underwent adjuvant treatment. The median time to adjuvant therapy initiation was 59 days (interquartile range 45-78 days). Age over 65, black and Hispanic race, and treatment with RT alone were associated with later initiation of adjuvant treatment. Patients with larger tumors and high grade disease were more likely to initiate treatment early. After propensity score weighting, there was an OS decrement to initiation of treatment beyond the median of 59 days after surgery. Conclusions: We identified characteristics that are related to the timing of adjuvant therapy in patients with biliary cancers. There was an OS decrement associated with delays beyond the median time point of 59 days. This finding may be especially relevant given the treatment delays seen as a result of COVID-19.
Sustainable Functional Finishing For Cotton Fabrics Using Chestnut Shell Extract
Authors: Hong Kyung Hwa 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Owing to global environmental concerns, sustainable industrial processes have become a topic of significant importance in various fields. Chestnut shells are byproducts of agricultural and food industries; however, they include various health-beneficial compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids. In this study, the feasibility of using chestnut shell extract as a natural functional agent for textile finishing processes was investigated. The chestnut shell extract was prepared by boiling the inner and outer shells of chestnut in distilled water for 4 h. Subsequently, the extract was filtered, centrifuged, concentrated, and finally dried into powder form using a freeze dryer. The extract was then dissolved in distilled water at different concentrations and applied to cotton fabrics through a pad-dry-cure process. The finished cotton fabrics were investigated by scanning electron microscope, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, etc. In addition, the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of the finished cotton fabrics were examined as functional properties. The results showed that the cotton fabrics finished by chestnut shell extract exhibited significant antibacterial, antioxidant, and deodorant properties when the concentration of the chestnut shell extract was above 10 wt% in the finishing bath.
Effect of Self-Compassion Training Combined With Core Stability Exercise For Patients With Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain: Study Protocol For A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zheng Fuming , Xiao Weihui , Yang Jiajia , Liu Shufeng , Zheng Yiyi , Liang Wenjian , Li Yan , Li Zhicheng , Zhang Siyun , Zou Yingmin , Wang Yuyin , Wang Chuhuai 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Non-specific chronic low back pain (NCLBP) has a high incidence, which has a significant impact on a patient's body and mind, and is a common condition affecting people's quality of life. Core Stability Exercise (CSE) is a modestly effective treatment for NCLBP; however, NCLBP has only been shown to be a useful treatment option in the short-term. Many clinical practice guidelines recommend the use of a biopsychosocial framework to guide management of NCLBP. Self-Compassion Training（SCT）is a promising psychotherapy treatment option for NCLBP; however, there is still a lack of research on CSE combined with SCT. In this study, we will seek to determine whether CSE combined with SCT is an effective treatment option for patients with NCLBP compared to CSE alone.Methods: In this study, we will randomize 60 adults with NCLBP to a combined SCT and CSE arm or a CSE alone arm (30 participants per group). Both interventions will consist of four weekly 1.5-hour group sessions of CSE supplemented by home practice. The combined group protocol also includes 2 hours of SCT before CSE. Interviewers masked to the treatment assignments will assess outcomes at 4 and 12 weeks post-randomization. The primary outcomes will be back pain disability (based on the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire) and Pain intensity (NRS; average pain, worst pain, average pain) at 12 weeks.Discussion: If SCT is found to enhance the effectiveness of CSE for patients with chronic back pain, the results of the study may promote the development of mind–body therapies for chronic low back pain.Trial registration: The trial was prospectively registered with the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry Number:ChiCTR2100042810 .Registered on 21 Jan 2021.
Spirometric Reference Equations For Cameroonians Aged 4 To 89 Years Derived Using Lambda, Mu, Sigma (LMS) Method
Authors: Pefura-Yone Eric Walter , Balkisssou Adamou Dodo , Poka-Mayap Virginie , Djenabou Amadou , Massongo Massongo , Nguetsa Arsene Ofimboudem , Mayoh-Nguemfo Catherine Fanny , Tsala Antoinette Ghislaine , Hadjara Halidou , Amougou Francine 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Spirometric reference values ​​are well known in several ethnic groups but the normative spirometric values ​​of blacks living in Africa have been less studied. The purpose of this study is to establish normative spirometric equations from a representative population of Cameroonian children and adults and compare these equations with those developed by Global Lung Initiative (GLI) and in Nigerians.Methods: Spirometric data from healthy Cameroonians aged 4 to 89 years randomly collected between 2014 and 2018 were used to derive reference equations using generalized additive model for location (mu), shape (lambda) and scale (sigma).Results: A total of 625 children and adolescents (290 males and 335 females) and 1152 adults (552 males and 600 females) were included in the study. The prediction equation for any spirometric index was written as: M = Exp[a0 + a1*ln (Height) + a2*ln (Age) + Mspline, Mspline was age related spline contribution]. Applying the GLI standards for African Americans results in overall values ​​greater than those found in our study for forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC). These values ​​were very close in children and adolescents while the values ​​obtained with the GLI equations for African Americans were significantly higher in adults. FEV1/FVC ratio in our study was similar for adult males but lower in adult females (88% vs 85%, difference = + 3.5%) when applying Nigerian standards. Conclusions: FEV1 and FVC of the Cameroonian population are very close to those of black American children and adolescents. However, FEV1 and FVC of Cameroonian adults are significantly lower than those of black American adults. These equations should allow a more suitable interpretation of spirometry in the Cameroonian population.
Influence Factors of Sternal Healing and Comparison of Different Sternal Closure Methods：A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Long Xuanren , Mei Kun , Qian Yongxiang , Zhang Xiaoyin , Wang Bin , Di Dongmei 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background

We determined the factors affecting sternum healing after a median sternotomy based on a retrospective analysis and compared the stability of different sternal closure techniques.
Methods

We collected information involving patients who underwent a median sternotomy in Changzhou First Hospital from 2014–2019 and had chest CT examinations 1–24 months postoperative, Main outcome includes the average of sternal healing score at the five specific anatomic levels and the adverse event of transverse displacement of sternum.
Results

In the short term healing group, Sternal score was only correlated with postoperative time (HR = 0.18, 95%CI:0.135–0.225, p < 0.001). In the long term healing group,old people had a higher risk of poor sternal healing than young (Age, HR=-0.028,95%CI:-0.05,-0.006, p = 0.013). Patients with left internal mammary artery grafting (LIMAG) had a high risk of poor sternal healing (HR=-0.444, CI:-0.869-0.019, p = 0.045).By binary logistic regression, It could be found that steel wire fixation was a favorable factor to prevent the transverse displacement of sternum (HR = 0.122, 95%CI:0.007–0.651, p = 0.047).
Conclusion

In summary, advanced age and internal mammary artery interception are risk factors that affect sternal healing based on imaging findings. this new method of sternal closure provides an effective way of ensuring sternal stability of both sternal plates and reduces the risk for complication after cardiac surgery in high-risk patients.
miR-3587 Targets HMOX1 to Attenuate Ferroptotic Renal Injury Following Ischemia-Reperfusion
Authors: Tao Wenqiang , Liu Fen , Zhang Jianguo , Fu Shangmiao , Zhan Hui , Qian Kejian 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Renal ischemia-reperfusion (IR) is frequently observed in patients who are critically ill, yet there are no reliable or effective approaches to treating this condition. This study aimed to investigate the miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks that are involved in IR-related ferroptotic renal injury. Bioinformatics method was used to screen critical hub gene and its upstream miRNA from Renal IR-related data sets in Gene Expression Omnibus, and further experiments were conducted to verify the regulatory effect of miRNA on critical hub gene. Heme oxygenase-1 (HMOX1) was identified as a critical hub gene that was found to be significantly upregulated during the early stages of renal IR injury. miR-3587 was identified as a putative regulator of HMOX1. When a miR-3587 inhibitor was applied in a hypoxia-reoxygenation model system using renal tubular epithelial cells, HMOX1 expression was significantly increased relative to that observed in the control hypoxia-reoxygenation group, with concomitant increases in glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) protein levels, enhanced cell viability, a reduction in malondialdehyde content, and the restoration of normal mitochondrial membrane potential. Preliminary evidence suggests that utilizing miR-3587 inhibitors can further promote HMOX1 upregulation, thereby protecting renal tissues from IR-induced ferroptosis.
Activation of Three Major Signaling Pathways After Endurance Training And Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Bimbova Katarina , Bacova Maria , Kisucka Alexandra , Galik Jan , Zavacky Peter , Lukacova Nadezda 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
We aimed to investigate the effects of endurance training on expression of growth factors (GFs) and stimulation of neurotrophin-dependent signaling pathways (PI3k/Akt, PLCγ/PKC, PLCγ/CAMKII, Ras-Erk1/2 and Rac1-Cdc42) responsible for neuroplasticity, neuroregeneration, survival and growth after spinal cord injury (SCI). Wistar rats were divided into four groups: i) intact controls; ii) six weeks of endurance training; iii) SCI; iv) pre-training + SCI. The animals survived for six weeks after SCI. Firstly, endurance training markedly up-regulated mRNA expression and protein levels (up to four times) of growth factors (BDNF, GDNF) and their receptors (TrkB, Gfrα) in low thoracic segments (Th8-Th10) compared to levels in untrained animals. Secondly, we found that spontaneous neuroplasticity seen in the SCI alone group was GF-specific and was activated through both PLCγ-PKC and PLC-CAMKII signaling pathways. In addition, training prior to SCI markedly increased the activity of PLCγ-PKC signaling at both transcript and protein levels at and around the lesion site. Similar effects were seen in expression of PI3/Akt and Ras/Erk1/2 signaling responsible for cell survival and regeneration. Thirdly, rats which underwent physical activity prior to SCI were more active and had significantly better neurological scores at the 14th and 42nd days of survival. These results suggest that regular physical activity could play an important role after SCI, as it maintains increased expression of GFs in spinal cord tissue six weeks post-SCI. The BDNF- and/or BDNF+GDNF-dependent signaling pathways were significantly affected in pre-trained SCI animals. In contrast, GDNF-dependent Rac1-Cdc42 signaling was not involved in training-affected SCI response.
Study Protocol: A Pilot Randomized Control Trial of A Dyadic Mobile Health Intervention for Black Sexual-Minority Male Couples with HIV
Authors: Kim Hyunjin Cindy , Pollack Lance M , Saberi Parya , Neilands Torsten B , Arnold Emily A , Bright Darius J , III Robert W Williams , Kegeles Susan , Tan Judy Y. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: HIV care engagement is lower among Black sexual-minority men relative to other racial/ethnic groups of sexual minority men. Being in a primary relationship is generally associated with more successful HIV care engagement across various populations. However, among Black sexual-minority men, the association between primary-relationship status and HIV-related outcomes is inconsistent across the HIV care continuum. Given the ubiquity of mobile technology access and use among racial/ethnic minority communities, leveraging mobile technology for HIV care engagement appears a promising intervention strategy. This paper outlines the protocol of the LetSync study, a pilot randomized-controlled trial of an mHealth app intervention developed using the Framework of Dyadic HIV Care Engagement to improve care-engagement outcomes among Black sexual-minority male couples living with HIV.Methods/Design: Eighty Black sexual-minority men in couples (n= 160) will be enrolled to pilot test the LetSync app. At least one member of each dyad must be both HIV-positive and self-identify as Black/African American. Couples will be randomized to either a waitlist-control arm or an intervention that uses relationship-based approach to improve HIV care engagement. We will assess feasibility and acceptability of trial procedures and intervention protocols based on pre-defined metrics of feasibility and acceptability. Execution of the study will yield the opportunity to conduct analyses to test the measurement and analysis protocol on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence by comparing the intervention and waitlist-control arms on self-reported and biological (hair sample) measures of adherence. Discussion: Limited prior research suggests that mobile-health technology could be a promising approach to improving HIV care engagement among Black sexual-minority men. The LetSync intervention harnesses relationship dynamics to facilitate improvement in HIV care engagement by focusing on dyadically developed and jointly executed strategies for dealing with issues related to HIV care engagement among Black sexual-minority men in couples.Trial RegistrationThe study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04951544) on July 7, 2021.
Inter-Annual Climate Differences Supersede Grazing Effects on the Anatomy and Physiology of a Dominant Grass Species.
Authors: Bachle Seton , Nippert Jesse B 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Grassland ecosystems are historically shaped by climate, fire, and grazing as essential ecological drivers. These grassland drivers influence morphology and productivity via physiological processes, resulting in unique water and carbon use strategies among species and populations. Leaf-level physiological responses in plants are framed by the underlying microanatomy, previously shown to reflect patterns of carbon assimilation and water-use in leaf tissues. However, the magnitude to which microanatomy and physiology are impacted by grassland drivers, remains unstudied. To address this knowledge gap, we sampled from three locations along a latitudinal gradient in the mesic grassland region of the central Great Plains, USA during the 2018 and 2019 growing seasons. We measured annual biomass and forage quality at the plot level, while collecting physiological and microanatomical traits at the leaf-level in cattle grazed and ungrazed locations at each site. Leaf-level measurements were focused on the dominant grass species Andropogon gerardii (big bluestem) because of its high abundance, continental-scale distribution, and forage value. The two sampling seasons received markedly different levels of precipitation: drought conditions in 2018 and excessive early season precipitation in 2019. Ambient drought conditions negatively impacted A. gerardii physiology and drastically reduced productivity regardless of grazing. Leaf-level microanatomical traits, particularly those associated with water-use, varied within and across locations and between years. Our results highlight how trait plasticity can serve as an important tool for predicting future grassland responses to climate change and variable disturbances. Specifically, climate played a stronger role than grazing in shaping above-ground processes in microanatomy and physiology.
Optimization of IL-1Ra Structure to Achieve a Smaller Protein with a Higher Affinity to its Receptor
Authors: Barkestani Mahsa Nouri , NASERIAN Sina , KHODAM Elnaz , KHEZRI Jafar , SHAMDANI Sara , BAMBAI Bijan 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Interleukine-1 family cytokines are key orchestrators of innate and adaptive immunity. In particular, up-regulation of IL-1R1 via its agonistic ligands consisted of IL-1β and IL-1α is implicated in a variety of human diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, type I diabetes, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and dry-eye disease. Until now, there are no small-molecule inhibitors of the IL-1R1 with increased antagonistic potency to be used for the treatment of peripheral inflammation. The objective of this study was to engineer a low-molecular-weight version of IL-1Ra with increased affinity and enhanced antagonistic activity for potential therapeutic use. Methods: To develop a smaller protein-ligand with a better affinity to IL-1R, we used bioinformatics studies and in silico simulations to anticipate non-binding areas on IL-1Ra.Results: We have successfully reduced the size IL-1Ra to a 110-amino-acid protein which at the same time confers a higher affinity for its receptor, IL-1R1, than its wild-type counterpart. This truncated antagonist displays structural stability and flexibility to the sequence alteration that can be exploited for other β-trefoil family proteins.Conclusions: These findings should have an impact on the development of new treatments that block IL-1 signaling, although more research is needed in vitro and in vivo.