bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The miR-200b-3p/ERG/PTHrP Axis Mediates the Inhibitory Effect of Ethanol on the Differentiation of Rat Fetal Chondrocytes into Articular Cartilage
Authors: Ni Qubo , Chen Haitao , Li Bin , He Hangyuan , Shi Huasong , Zhu Jiayong , Gao Hui , Wang Hui , Chen Liaobin 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background

This study aims to further explore cartilage development in prenatal ethanol exposure (PEE) offspring at different times to explore the specific time points and mechanism of ethanol-induced fetal cartilage dysplasia.
Methods

On gestational day (GD)14, GD17, and GD20, PEE fetal cartilage was evaluated by morphological analysis. RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were used to detect the expression of cartilage marker genes and their regulatory factors. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were used to explore the effect of ethanol on the differentiation of chondrocytes. Additionally, we used inhibitors, overexpression plasmids and a luciferase reporter assay on GD17 chondrocytes to verify the mechanism.
Findings:

PEE significantly reduced cartilage matrix content and the expression of marker genes on GD17 and GD20 but had no effect on GD14. The inhibition of chondrogenic differentiation by PEE mainly occurred on GD14-17. Furthermore, the expression of miR-200b-3p was increased, while that of ERG and PTHrP was markedly reduced in PEE fetal cartilage. In vitro, ethanol (30–120 mM) inhibited the differentiation of BMSCs into chondrocytes in a concentration-dependent manner, accompanied by strong expression of miR-200b-3p and low expression of ERG and PTHrP. Moreover, PTHLH and ERG overexpressed, as well as a miR-200b-3p inhibitor reversed the inhibitory effect of ethanol on the differentiation of fetal chondrocytes. Furthermore, miR-200b-3p could target and negatively regulate ERG.
Interpretation:

PEE can significantly inhibit the development of articular cartilage, especially during articular cartilage formation. The mechanism is related to the decreased differentiation of fetal cartilage into articular cartilage mediated by the miR-200b-3p/ERG/PTHrP axis.
Effect of Dexmedetomidine For Thoracoscopic Surgery: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Song Chengjun , Lu Quan 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Introduction: The efficacy of dexmedetomidine for thoracoscopic surgery remains controversial. We conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the impact of dexmedetomidine for thoracoscopic surgery.Methods: We have searched PubMed, EMbase, Web of science, EBSCO, and Cochrane library databases through September 2020 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of dexmedetomidine on thoracoscopic surgery. This meta-analysis is performed using the random-effect model.Results: Six RCTs involving 510 patients are included in the meta-analysis. Overall, compared with control group for thoracoscopic surgery, dexmedetomidine results in significantly reduced pain scores (SMD=-1.50; 95% CI=-2.63 to -0.37; P=0.009), anesthetic consumption (SMD=-3.91; 95% CI=-6.76 to -1.05; P=0.007), mean heart rate (SMD=-0.41; 95% CI=-0.65 to -0.18; P=0.0007), and the number of ICU stay (RR=0.39; 95% CI=0.19 to 0.80; P=0.01), but showed no obvious effect on mean blood pressure (SMD=-0.07; 95% CI=-0.45 to 0.31; P=0.72) or hospital stay (SMD=-0.61; 95% CI=-1.30 to 0.08; P=0.08). Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine supplementation can substantially improve the analgesic efficacy for thoracoscopic surgery.
Multifunctional AIE Iridium (III) Photosensitizer Nanoparticles for Two-Photon-Activated Imaging and Mitochondria Targeting Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Cai Xuzi , Wang Kangnan , Ma Wen , Yang yuanyuan , Chen Gui , Fu Huijiao , Cui Chunhui , Yu Zhiqiang , Wang Xuefeng 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Developing novel photosensitizers for deep tissue imaging and efficient photodynamic therapy (PDT) remains a challengebecause of the poor water solubility, low reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation efficiency, serve dark cytotoxicity, and weak absorption in the NIR region of conventional photosensitizers. Herein,cyclometalated iridium (III) complexes(Ir)with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) feature, high photoinduced ROS generation efficiency, two-photonexcitation, and mitochondria-targetingcapability were designed and further encapsulated into biocompatible nanoparticles (NPs).The Ir-NPs can be used to disturb redox homeostasis in vitro, result in mitochondrial dysfunction and cell apoptosis. Importantly, invivo experiments demonstrated that theIr-NPs presented obviously tumor-targeting ability, excellent antitumor effect, and low systematic dark-toxicity. Moreover, the Ir-NPs could serve as a two-photon imaging agent for deep tissue bioimaging with a penetration depth of up to 300 μm. This work presents a promising strategy for designing a clinical application of multifunctional Ir-NPs toward bioimaging and PDT.
Determinants of Human-Elephant Conflict in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Southern India
Authors: Mohanarangan Ashokkumar , Chinnaiyan Sakthivel , Kaliyaperumal Sudhakar , Shanmugavelu Swaminathan , Desai Ajay A 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Human-elephant conflict (HEC) is a negative interaction between elephants and humans. HEC affects local community livelihood and the success of elephant conservation. The Asian elephant population and HEC were studied in the Niligiri Biosphere Reserve in the year 1992 (Balasubramanian et al. 1995) using this information as baseline data. We have studied HEC in the selected 14 villages located in the Moist Deciduous forest and Thorn forest areas of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve from Nov 2006 to Mar 2008, which were part of the earlier study. The data on crop species, elephant damages, protection method and land-use changes concerning HEC were collected fortnightly by direct enumeration and questionnaire survey. A total of 297 crop damage incidences were recorded. The crop-raiding pattern and the peaks in raiding are during monsoon periods were similar to the earlier study. A total of seven people were killed and six were injured by the attack of elephants in the ten years (1998 to 2008) and results in 1.3 incidences/year. The overall crop damage has declined from 2.1% in the early 1990s to 0.98%. The spatial location of HEC indicated that the mean damage percent was higher in the peripheral areas (1.51%) than in the center of the village (0.18%). There is a major shift from crops grown for food (finger millet) to commercial reasons. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the effective perimeter length (perimeter with cultivation) and total area of cultivation had a primary influence on the crop damage, followed by the area of degradation around the village and percent edible crops in the boundary. Further, logistic regression on crop-raiding incidences with the independent predictors indicated that among habitats in the MDF the crop-raiding incidences were 95% higher than that of TF. Palatable crop species plantain, paddy, finger millet and vegetable crops were 391% raided more frequently than the non-palatable species. Crops with protection methods were 22% less frequently damaged than the crops without any protection. Thus changes in the crop species, improved protection and land-use changes have reduced HEC in the adjacent areas of Mudumalai TR. The resettlement of villages from the core area of reserve in MDF would greatly reduce HEC in MTR.
Antifungal Features and Properties of Chitosan/Sandalwood Oil Pickering Emulsion Coating Stabilized by Appropriate Cellulose Nanofiber Dosage for Fresh Fruit Application
Authors: Wardana Ata Aditya , Koga Arisa , Tanaka Fumina , Tanaka Fumihiko 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
A novel composite edible coating film was developed from 0.8% chitosan (CS) and 0.5% n sandalwood oil (SEO). Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) were used as a stabilizer agent of oil-in-water Pickering emulsion. We found four typical groups of CNF level-dependent emulsion stabilization, including (1) unstable emulsion in the absence of CNFs; (2) unstable emulsion (0.006–0.21% CNFs); (3) stable emulsion (0.24–0.31% CNFs); and (4) regular emulsion with the addition of surfactant. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was performed to reveal the characteristics of droplet diameter and morphology. Antifungal tests against Botrytis cinerea and Penicillium digitatum, between emulsion coating stabilized with CNFs (CS-SEOpick) and CS or CS-SEO was tested. The effective concentration of CNFs (0.24%) may improve the performance of CS coating and maintain CS-SEO antifungal activity synergistically confirmed with a series of assays (in vitro, in vivo, and membrane integrity changes). The incorporation of CNFs contributed to improve the functional properties of CS and SEO-loaded CS including light transmission at UV and visible light wavelengths and tensile strength. Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were employed to characterize the biocompatibility of each coating film formulation. Emulsion-CNF stabilized coating may have potential applications for active coating for fresh fruit commodities.
Rhizosphere Enzyme Activities and Microorganisms Drive the Transformation of Organic and Inorganic Carbon in Saline - Alkali Soil Region
Authors: Qu Yunke , Tang Jie , Liu Ben , Lyu Hang , Duan Yucong , Yang Yao , Wang Sining , Li Zhaoyang 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Soil inorganic carbon (SIC) is the main existing form of soil carbon pool in arid saline-alkali land, and its quantity distribution affects the pattern of soil carbon accumulation and storage. Previous studies on soil carbon mostly focus on organic carbon (SOC), and pay little attention to SIC. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of microorganisms and soil enzymes on the transformation of SOC and SIC in the rhizosphere soil of three maize fields (M1, M2 and M3) and three paddy fields (R1, R2 and R3) under saline-alkali stress, which is a new research topic of soil carbon cycle in saline-alkali soil region. The results showed that the root - soil - microorganism interaction was changed by saline-alkali stress. The results of RDA analysis showed that Proteobacteria, Gemmatimonadetes, Planctomycetes, Nitrospirae, catalase, invertase, amylase and β-glucosidase had significant effects on the transformation of SOC and SIC (P<0.05). SOC and SIC in maize and rice rhizosphere soil were mainly driven by soil enzymes and microorganisms under saline-alkali stress, exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) and pH were the main factors affecting the conversion process of SOC and SIC.
Effect of ROCK Pathway Manipulation on Actin Cytoskeleton Architecture: The Third Dimension
Authors: Grandy Carolin , Port Fabian , Pfeil Jonas , Gottschalk Kay-Eberhard 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The actin cytoskeleton with its dynamic properties serves as the driving force for the movement and division of cells and gives the cell shape and structure. Disorders in the actin cytoskeleton occur in many diseases. Deeper understanding of the regulation is essential in order to better understand these biochemical processes. In our study, we use metal-induced energy transfer (MIET) as a tool to quantitatively examine the rarely considered third dimension of the actin cytoskeleton with nanometer accuracy. In particular, we investigate the influence of different drugs acting on the ROCK pathway on the three-dimensional actin organization. We find that cells treated with inhibitors have a lower actin height to the substrate while treatment with a stimulator for the ROCK pathway increases the actin height to the substrate. This reveals the precise tuning of adhesion and cytoskeleton tension, which leads to a rich three-dimensional structural behaviour of the actin cytoskeleton. This finetuning is differentially affected by either inhibition or stimulation.
The Effects of the Molecular Weights of Hyaluronic Acid on the Immune Responses
Authors: Lee Bo Mi , Park Sang Jun , Noh Insup , Kim Chun-Ho 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: The molecular weight of hyaluronic acid (HyA) depends on the type of organ in the body. When HyA of the desired molecular weight is implanted into the human body for regeneration of damaged tissue, it is degraded by hyaluronidase in associated with an inflammatory response. This study sought to evaluate the effects of HyA molecular weight and concentration on pro- and anti-inflammatory responses in murine macrophages. Methods: The structures and molecular weights of HyAs (LMW-10, MMW-100, MMW-500, and HMW-1,500) were confirmed by 1H NMR and gel permeation chromatography (GPC), respectively. After treatment of murine macrophages with a low (100 μg/mL) or high (100 μg/mL) concentration of each molecular weight HyA, cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and changes in immune response in both LPS-stimulated and untreated macrophages were evaluated by assessing nitric oxide (NO) production, and analyzing expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory genes including by RT-PCR.Results: Molecular weights of LMW-10, MMW-100, MMW-500, and HMW-1,500 were 13,241±161, 96,531±1,167, 512,657±8,545, and 1,249,500±37,477 Da, respectively. NO production by LPS-stimulated macrophages was decreased by increasing concentrations and molecular weights of HyA. At a high concentration of 100 μg/mL, HMW-1,500 reduced NO production in LPS-stimulated macrophages to about 45%. Using NanoString technology, we also found that the immune-related genes TNF‐α, IL-6, IL-1β, TGF-β1, IL-10, IL-11, CCL2, and Arg1 were specifically over-expressed in LPS-stimulated macrophages treated with various molecular weights of HyA. An RT-PCR analysis of gene expression showed that HMW-1,500 decreased expression of classically activated (M1) macrophage genes, such as TNF‐α, IL-6, CCL2, and IL-1β, in LPS-stimulated macrophages, whereas medium molecular-weight HyA (MMW-100 and MMW-500) instead increased expression levels of these genes. HMW-1,500 at a high concentration (100 μg/mL) significantly decreased expression of pro-inflammatory genes in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Expression of genes associated with anti-inflammatory responses (M2 phenotype), such as TGF-β1, IL-10, IL-11, and Arg1, were increased by high concentrations of MMW-500 and HMW-1,500 in LPS-stimulated macrophages.Conclusions: High molecular-weight HyA (i.e., > 1,250 kDa) inhibits pro-inflammatory responses in LPS-stimulated macrophages and induces anti-inflammatory responses in a concentration dependent manner.
Prognosis for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patients Achieving Complete Response After Systemic Chemotherapy
Authors: Manabe Takahiro , Takii Yasumasa , Oyanagi Hidehito , Nogami Hitoshi , Maruyama Satoshi 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Despite marked recent advances in chemotherapy, few reports have focused on the prognosis for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) achieving complete response (CR) after systemic chemotherapy. This study investigated the clinical course of mCRC patients achieving CR and evaluated the role of CR in chemotherapy.Methods: This retrospective study searched a prospectively maintained database at the author’s institute to identify medical records for mCRC patients achieving CR after systematic chemotherapy from January 2007 to March 2020.Results: The search yielded 23 patients with confirmed CR to systemic chemotherapy. Median time to CR from treatment initiation was 6.8 months. Maintenance chemotherapy was continued for 22 of 23 patients. Median duration of maintenance chemotherapy was 11.1 months. Disease progression occurred for 17 (73.9%) patients at a median 48.1-month follow-up. Median progression-free survival was 26.6 months. Median overall survival was 91.7 months.Conclusions: Patients with CR to chemotherapy had a high probability of disease progression, but a relatively long-term prognosis. Treatment strategies after achievement of CR should be based an understanding of the high potential that tumor cells will remain. Use of maintenance chemotherapy after achievement of CR is still unclear, the recent data do not demonstrate a negative impact for continuing maintenance chemotherapy after CR.
Danhong Injection Combined With Naoxintong Capsule in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients Undergoing PCI: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: cai hairong , Sicong Luo , Huanjia Gao , Shuling Liu , Shuai Zhao , Zhishang Li , Weizhang Zhang , Yong Tang , Bojun Chen 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a group of clinical syndromes caused by thrombosis caused by rupture of coronary atherosclerotic plaque or erosion ulcer, resulting in complete or incomplete occlusion of blood vessels. ACS is the most common cardiovascular critical disease. Although with the development of coronary intervention technology, the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) is still high. In China, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely used in the adjuvant treatment of ACS to improve the symptoms and prognosis. Danhong injection (DHI) and Naoxintong capsule (NXTC) may improve the prognosis of patients with ACS, but the evidence-based evidence is still insufficient. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DHI combined with NXTC in the treatment of ACS.Methods/design:This is a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial.1752 patients with ACS undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) will be randomly assigned to receive DHI combined with NXTC or placebo at the ratio of 1:1. The course of treatment was 12 weeks. All participants received conventional treatment. The main outcome measure was the 12-months incidence of MACEs. Adverse events (AE) will also be evaluated.Discussion:This trial is a well designed study according to principles and regulations issued by the China food and Drug Administration (CFDA). The results will provide high-quality evidence for the efficacy and safety of DHI combined with NXTC in the treatment of ACS. The results of this study can provide clinicians with evidence-based recommendations for treatment of ACS.Trial registration：Chinese Clinical Trial Registry(http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx), ChiCTR-IOR-14005693.Registered on November 12,2014.
Short- and Long-term Effects of Photobiomodulation on Pain, Functionality, Tissue Quality, Central Sensitisation and Psychological Factors in a Population Suffering From Fibromyalgia: Protocol for a Triple-blinded Randomized Clinical Trial.
Authors: NAVARRO-LEDESMA SANTIAGO , Carroll James , Burton Patricia 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: The development of an integral and global treatment to improve the quality of life in those with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is challenging.Methods: This study is a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Participants will be recruited in a private care practice and randomized to receive either a whole body Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy program or placebo. Primary out comes will be pain (NumericPain Rating Scale; Widespread Pain Index; Symptom Severity Score), functionality (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire; The Leisure Time Physical Activity Instrument), quality of soft tissue (elastography) and central sensitisation (pain pressure threshold and the Autonomic Symptom Profile). Secondary outcomes will be psychological factors (Pain Catastrophising scale, Tampa Scale, Self-Efficay questionnaire). Assessments will be at baseline (T1), after session 6 (T2), after treatment (T3) and 2 weeks (T4), 3 (T5) and 6 (T6) month´ follow-up.Discussion: PBM therapy has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation and to increase the rate of tissue repair for a wide range of conditions, but its potential use as a whole body treatment in FM is yet to be explored. This trial will investigate whether whole body PBM therapy is effective at reducing pain intensity, improving functionality, quality of soft tissue, central sensitisation symptoms and psychological measurements. Furthermore, 3 and 6 months follow up will investigate long-term efficacy of this treatment.Trial registration: NCT04248972. Registered on January 29, 2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04248972?term=navarro-ledesma+santiago&draw=2&rank=2.
Effect of a Taped Filter Mask on Perceived Breathlessness, Heart Rate, Lactate and Oxygen Saturation During a Graded Exercise Test
Authors: Ng Hoi Lam , Trefz Johannes , Schönfelder Martin , Wackerhage Henning 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Face masks are an effective, non-pharmacological strategy to reduce the transmission of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and other pathogens. However, it is a challenge to keep masks sealed during exercise, as ventilation can increase from 5-10 L/min at rest to up to 200 L/min so that masks may be blown away from the face. To reduce leakage e.g. during exercise, a face mask was developed that is taped onto the face. The aim of this study was to investigate during a graded cycle ergometry test the effect of a taped mask on the perception of breathlessness, heart rate, lactate, and oxygen saturation when compared to a surgical mask and no mask.Methods: Four trained and healthy males and females each (n=8 in total) performed incremental cycle ergometer tests until voluntary exhaustion under three conditions: (1) No mask/control, (2) surgical mask or (3) taped mask. During these tests, we measured perception of breathlessness, heart rate, the concentration of blood lactate and peripheral oxygen saturation and analysed the resultant data with one or two-way repeated measures ANOVAs. We also used a questionnaire to evaluate mask comfort and analysed the data with paired t-tests. Results: When compared to wearing no mask, a taped face mask significantly reduces the maximal workload in a graded exercise test by 12±6% (p=0.001). Moreover, with a taped face mask, subjects perceive severe breathlessness at 12±9% lower workload (p=0.012) and oxygen saturation at 65% of the maximal workload is 1.5% lower (p=0.018) when compared to wearing no mask. Heart rate and the concentration of lactate were not significantly different at any workload. When compared to wearing a surgical mask, wearing a taped face mask has a significantly better wearing comfort (p=0.038), feels better on the skin (p=0.004), there is a lower sensation of moisture (p=0.026) and wearers perceive that less heat is generated (p=0.021). We found no sex/gender differences for any parameters. Conclusions: A taped mask is well tolerated during light and moderate exercise intensity but reduces maximal exercise capacity.