bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A negative feedback loop of H19/miR‐675/VDR mediates therapeutic effect of cucurmin in the treatment of glioma
Authors: Pan Jie‐Xiang , Chen Tu‐Nan , Ma Kang , Wang Shi , Yang Chuan‐Yan , Cui Gao‐Yu 
Published: August 2019

AbstractCurcumin (CUR) shows a remarkable antitumor activity against a wide range of cancers such as glioma, but its underlying mechanism remains elusive. In this study, we aimed to explore the potential role of H19/miR‐675/vitamin D receptor (VDR) in the effect of CUR against glioma. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western‐blot analysis were used to study the effect of CUR or 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D3) on the expression of H19, miR‐675, and VDR. In addition, the effect of H19 on VDR expression was also studied. Furthermore, the expression of H19, miR‐675, and VDR between CUR‐loaded nanoparticles (NPs) and NP groups was compared, and the interaction among H19, miR‐675, and VDR was analyzed by in‐silicon and luciferase assays. In a dose‐dependent manner, CUR and 1,25(OH)2D3 both downregulated the expression of H19 and miR‐675 but increased the expression of VDR. In addition, H19 evidently reduced the mRNA and protein levels of VDR. Furthermore, VDR was confirmed as a target gene of miR‐675, which significantly reduced the expression of VDR. Finally, the administration of CUR evidently decreased tumor volume. CUR‐loaded NP group exhibited lower levels of H19 and miR‐675, while the NP group showed higher levels of VDR mRNA and protein. In summary, it is the first time that the involvement of a negative feedback loop of H19/miR‐675/VDR has been demonstrated in the development of glioma. Therefore, H19 might serve as a new biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of glioma.
lncRNA HOTAIR upregulates autophagy to promote apoptosis and senescence of nucleus pulposus cells
Authors: Zhan Shengfeng , Wang Kun , Xiang Qian , Song Yu , Li Shuai , Liang Hang , Luo Rongjin , Wang Bingjin , Liao Zhiwei , Zhang Yukun , Yang Cao 
Published: September 2019

AbstractIntervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a complex and chronic disease that involves disc cell senescence, death, and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. HOTAIR, a long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) is reportedly associated with autophagy, whereas autophagy is shown to promote IDD. However, how it affects nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, the primary component of intervertebral discs is still unclear. We hypothesized that HOTAIR promotes NP cell apoptosis and senescence through upregulating autophagy. Thus, silencing HOTAIR should inhibit autophagy and exert a therapeutic effect on IDD. Our in vitro experiments in human NP cells revealed that HOTAIR expression positively correlated with IDD grade, and overexpression enhanced autophagy. Autophagy inhibition via 3‐methyladenine reversed HOTAIR stimulatory effects on apoptosis, senescence, and ECM catabolism, while the AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibitor Compound C suppressed HOTAIR‐induced autophagy through regulating AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 pathways. Our in vivo experiment then illustrated that silencing HOTAIR ameliorates IDD in rats. Collectively, we demonstrated that HOTAIR stimulates autophagy to promote NP cell apoptosis, senescence, and ECM catabolism. Therefore, silencing HOTAIR has the potential to become a treatment option for IDD.
Sexually transmitted hepatitis C virus infections: current trends, and recent advances in understanding the spread in men who have sex with men
Authors: Nijmeijer Bernadien M , Koopsen Jelle , Schinkel Janke , Prins Maria , Geijtenbeek Teunis BH 
Published: August 2019

AbstractIntroductionHepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major public health threat. Although the recent availability of highly effective directly acting antivirals created optimism towards HCV elimination, there is ongoing transmission of HCV in men who have sex with men (MSM). We here report current epidemiological trends and synthesise evidence on behavioural, network, cellular and molecular host factors associated with sexual transmission of HCV, in particular the role of HIV‐1 co‐infection. We discuss prevention opportunities focusing on the potential of HCV treatment.MethodsWe searched MEDLINE, fact sheets from health professional bodies and conference abstracts using appropriate keywords to identify and select relevant reports.Results and discussionRecent studies strongly suggest that HCV is transmitted via sexual contact in HIV‐positive MSM and more recently in HIV‐negative MSM eligible for or on pre‐exposure prophylaxis. The reinfection risk following clearance is about 10 times the risk of primary infection. International connectedness of MSM transmission networks might contribute to ongoing reinfection. Some of these networks might overlap with networks of people who inject drugs. Although, the precise mechanisms facilitating sexual transmission remain unclear, damage to the mucosal barrier in the rectum could increase susceptibility. Mucosal dendritic cell subsets could increase HCV susceptibility by retaining HCV and transmitting the virus to other cells, allowing egress into blood and liver. Early identification of new HCV infections is important to prevent onward transmission, but early diagnosis of acute HCV infection and prompt treatment is hampered by the slow rate of HCV antibody seroconversion, which in rare cases may take more than a year. Novel tests such as testing for HCV core antigen might facilitate early diagnosis.ConclusionsHigh‐risk sexual behaviour, network characteristics, co‐infection with sexually transmitted infections like HIV‐1 and other concomitant bacterial and viral sexually transmitted infections are important factors that lead to HCV spread. Targeted and combined prevention efforts including effective behavioural interventions and scale‐up of HCV testing and treatment are required to halt HCV transmission in MSM.
β‐Arrestin 2 protects against neurological function defects in HSV‐1‐induced encephalitis mice
Authors: Zeng Yanping , Liang Jingjing , Weng Chao , Lu Zuneng , Zhou Yu 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThe pathogenesis of herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) needs to be fully explored. β‐Arrestin 2 (Arrb2) is highly expressed in brain tissues and plays a key role in the regulation of systemic immune reactions by modulating various signaling pathways. However, the expression of Arrb2 in microglial cells and its influence on HSE prognosis is still undefined. We explore the pathophysiological effect of Arrb2 in the brain using experimental HSE mice. The expression of Arrb2 in microglia was decreased significantly 48 hours following HSV‐1 infection. Arrb2 overexpression transgenic (TG) mice had a significantly lower mortality and survival rate was improved by 40% compared to wild‐type mice. Arrb2 suppressed the generation of proinflammatory cytokines TNF‐α and IL‐6 and increased anti‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐10 and IL‐4 expression. Arrb2 also inhibited the activation of the transcription factor NF‐κB in microglial cells. Arrb2 TG mice attenuated the blood‐brain barrier breakdown and relieved cerebral edema, meanwhile, Arrb2 improved mice neurological function compared with wild‐type mice. Overall, Arrb2 favored microglia of the M2 phenotype, attenuated brain proinflammatory responses, protected the blood vessel wall integrity, reduced HSV‐1‐induced neurological impairment, and improved the survival rate in HSE mice.
Sensor applications of thin‐film devices originating in display technologies
Authors: Kimura Mutsumi 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThin‐film devices are widely utilized for flat‐panel displays, and the essential advantages of the thin‐film devices are generally large‐area production, various‐material substrate, layered structure, etc. Appropriate applications are flat‐panel displays, and other applications where the abovementioned advantages are available and the disadvantages are acceptable are sensor applications. Moreover, if the sensor devices can be made by thin‐film devices that have been already utilized for flat‐panel displays, they can be made without additional cost. Therefore, thin‐film devices are again promising for sensor applications especially for interactive displays. We are investigating sensor applications of thin‐film devices. Particular in this journal paper, we review sensor applications of thin‐film devices originating in display technologies. The various sensors are visible‐light sensor, infrared‐light sensor, temperature sensor, magnetic‐field sensor, etc. Many research results from many research organizations as well as our research laboratory are introduced.
S‐100B as an extra selection tool for FDG PET/CT scanning in follow‐up of AJCC stage III melanoma patients
Authors: Deckers Eric A. , Wevers Kevin P. , Muller Kobold Anneke C. , Damude Samantha , Vrielink Otis M. , van Ginkel Robert J. , Been Lukas B. , van Leeuwen Barbara L. , Hoekstra Harald J. , Kruijff Schelto 
Published: August 2019

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesThis current study assessed the value of S‐100B measurement to guide fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scanning for detecting recurrent disease in stage III melanoma patients.MethodsThis study included 100 stage III melanoma patients in follow‐up after curative lymph node dissection. Follow‐up visits included physical examination and S‐100B monitoring. FDG PET/CT scanning was indicated by clinical symptoms and/or elevated S‐100B.ResultsOf 100 patients, 13 (13%) had elevated S‐100B without clinical symptoms, of whom 7 (54%) showed disease evidence upon FDG PET/CT scanning. Twenty‐six patients (26%) had clinical symptoms with normal S‐100B and FDG PET/CT revealed metastasis in 20 (77%). Three patients had clinical symptoms and elevated S‐100B, and FDG PET/CT revealed metastasis in all three (100%). Overall, FDG PET/CT scanning revealed metastasis in 30 of the 42 patients (71.4%). For seven recurrences, elevated S‐100B prompted early detection of asymptomatic disease; 10% of all asymptomatic patients in follow‐up, 23% of all patients with recurrent disease.ConclusionS‐100B cannot exclude recurrent disease during follow‐up of stage III melanoma. However, adding S‐100B measurement to standard clinical assessment can guide FDG PET/CT scanning for detecting recurrent melanoma.
Therapeutic index of lymphadenectomy among patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: A multi‐institutional analysis
Authors: Wu Lu , Sahara Kota , Tsilimigras Diamantis I. , Maithel Shishir K. , Poultsides George A. , Rocha Flavio G. , Weber Sharon M. , Fields Ryan C. , Idrees Kamran , Cho Clifford S. , Shen Feng , Pawlik Timothy M. ,   and other members of the U.S. Neuroendocrine Tumor Study Group
Published: August 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe benefit derived from lymph node dissection (LND) in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) based on clinicopathological characteristics remains unclear.MethodsPatients undergoing surgery for pNET between 1997 and 2016 were identified using a multi‐institutional dataset. The therapeutic index of LND relative to patient characteristics was calculated.ResultsAmong 647 patients, the median number of lymph nodes (LNs) evaluated was 10 (interquartile range: 4‐16) and approximately one quarter of patients had lymph node metastasis (LNM) (N = 159, 24.6%). Among patients with LNM, 5‐year recurrence‐free survival was 56.0%, reflecting a therapeutic index value of 13.8. The therapeutic index was highest among patients with a moderately/poorly‐differentiated pNET (21.5), Ki‐67 ≥ 3% (20.1), tumor size ≥2.0 cm (20.0), and tumor location at the head of the pancreas (20.0). Patients with ≥8 LNs evaluated had a higher therapeutic index than patients who had 1 to 7 LNs evaluated (≥8: 17.9 vs 1‐7: 7.5; difference of index: 11.4).ConclusionLND was mostly beneficial among patients with pNETs >2 cm, Ki‐67 ≥ 3%, and lesions located at the pancreatic head as identification of LNM was most common among individuals with these tumor characteristics. Evaluation of ≥8 LNs was associated with a higher likelihood of identifying LNM as well as a higher therapeutic index, and therefore this number of LNs should be considered the goal.
Lower fecal pH may be a novel indicator of pouchitis after IPAA in patients with FAP or metachronous Lynch syndrome
Authors: Yang Liu , Bao Jun , Jiang Qian , Yu Dong‐sheng , Zhong Jian 
Published: September 2019

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesTo assess whether fecal pH might be an indicator of pouchitis during the postoperative period in hereditary colorectal cancer (CRC) patients who have undergone ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA).MethodsFive consecutive daily pH values of stool samples from 31 familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) patients and 32 metachronous Lynch syndrome patients who underwent IPAA procedures were reviewed. Patients with pouchitis (pouchitis group, n = 22) were compared with patients without pouchitis (nonpouchitis group, n = 41). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine the indicative potential of fecal pH for pouchitis. A Mantel‐Cox test was also performed to evaluate the survival status of patients with or without pouchitis.ResultsPouchitis was noted in 22 (34.9%) of 63 patients after IPAA. The significance of each daily average fecal pH value and the 5‐day overall average fecal pH value was compared between the two groups (P < .01). A cutoff fecal pH value of 7.46 was determined by the ROC analysis for assessing the risk of pouchitis. No significant difference in 5‐year overall survival was observed between the two groups.ConclusionA lower fecal pH value in patients with hereditary CRC after IPAA might be a new indicator of pouchitis.
Numerical simulation of the aluminum–zinc–steel galvanic system for new designs of automotive chassis
Authors: Ruiz‐Garcia Allan , Mayen‐Mondragon Rodrigo , Genesca Joan , Morales‐Murillo Esteban , Taha‐Tijerina Jaime , Montoya Rodrigo 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThe requirement for lighter vehicles in the automotive industry promotes designs based on the combination of different metallic alloys. Such an approach, however, leads to galvanic‐corrosion risks, which compromise the durability of vehicles. One proposal to minimize such risks is to separate some of the chassis components by a Zn washer. The present work uses the finite element method to evaluate such an innovative design. The capacity of the washer to protect its aluminum alloy and carbon steel neighbors is assessed. As a worst‐case scenario, the bare metals are in contact with NaCl solution. Two electrolyte layer thicknesses are assumed: in the micrometer and in the millimeter range. Each case requires different mathematical models. For the thin film case, the zinc washer is able to protect its neighbors from corrosion. However, it sustains large corrosion rates, and thus its protection is effective only during short periods. Furthermore, as the Zn surface degrades and thus recesses, the “protective field” is blocked by the neighboring metal‐walls. The thicker the electrolyte layer, the weaker the Zn protective capability and, at some point, the corrosion of the aluminum alloy is unavoidable.
PRMT1 potentiates chondrosarcoma development through activation of YAP activity
Authors: Chen Changbao , Zhou Hua , Zhang Xiaolin , Liu Zhongjun , Ma Xinlong 
Published: September 2019

AbstractProtein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) is identified as an oncogene implicated in various types of human cancers, while Yes‐associated protein (YAP) as a key transcriptional coactivator of the Hippo signaling plays a vital role in tissue homeostasis and tumorigenesis. To date, the underlying biological functions, prognostic values, and potential mechanisms of PRMT1 and YAP in chondrosarcoma development have not been clearly elucidated. Here, we show that upregulation of PRMT1 and YAP is significantly detected in human chondrosarcoma specimens. Elevated levels of PRMT1 positively correlated with YAP nuclear accumulation are significantly associated with high‐grade chondrosarcoma and poor prognosis. Moreover, YAP is recognized as an independent prognostic factor for chondrosarcoma patients. Ectopic expression of PRMT1 potentiates, but depletion of PRMT1 attenuates, chondrosarcoma cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we have discovered that PRMT1 functions upstream of LATS1 and suppresses LATS1‐mediated phosphorylation of YAP (Ser127), and thus promotes chondrosarcoma cell survival in a YAP‐dependent manner. Collectively, our study identifies PRMT1 as a positive regulator of YAP activity in chondrosarcoma, highlighting a novel therapeutic target against chondrosarcoma and other YAP‐driven cancers.
Neurotensin receptor 1 is a new therapeutic target for human undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma growth
Authors: Tokumoto Hiroto , Setoguchi Takao , Saitoh Yoshinobu , Sasaki Hiromi , Nagano Satoshi , Maeda Shingo , Tanimoto Akihide , Taniguchi Noboru 
Published: September 2019

AbstractUndifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) is the second most common soft tissue sarcoma. For patients with unresectable or metastatic disease, chemotherapies are considered, but in many cases they are not curative. There is a need to identify specific molecular dysregulations that can be therapeutic targets. We focused on neurotensin receptor 1 (NTSR1), which belongs to the G‐protein‐coupled receptor. NTSR1 expression was upregulated in specimens from patients with UPS. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction showed that expression of NTSR1 messenger RNA was 5‐ to 7‐fold increased in UPS cells compared with myoblasts. Western blot showed a high expression of NTSR1 protein in UPS cell lines. Knockdown of NTSR1 prevented UPS cell proliferation and invasion. We confirmed that SR48692, an inhibitor of NTSR1, exhibited antitumor activities in UPS cells. The combination index showed that SR48692 and standard chemotherapeutic drugs prevented UPS cell proliferation synergistically. Mouse xenograft models showed that SR48692 inhibited extracellular signal‐regulated kinase phosphorylation and enhanced the response to standard chemotherapeutic drugs. Inhibition of NTSR1 improved the effect of standard chemotherapeutic drugs for UPS. SR48692 may be a new drug for targeted UPS therapy.
A genome‐wide association and replication study of blood pressure in Ugandan early adolescents
Authors: Lule Swaib A. , Mentzer Alexander J. , Namara Benigna , Muwenzi Allan G. , Nassanga Beatrice , kizito Dennison , Akurut Helen , Lubyayi Lawrence , Tumusiime Josephine , Zziwa Christopher , Akello Florence , Gurdasani Deept , Sandhu Manjinder , Smeeth Liam , Elliott Alison M. , Webb Emily L. 
Published: August 2019

AbstractBackgroundGenetic association studies of blood pressure (BP) have mostly been conducted in non‐African populations. Using the Entebbe Mother and Baby Study (EMaBS), we aimed to identify genetic variants associated with BP among Ugandan adolescents.MethodsSystolic and diastolic BP were measured among 10‐ and 11‐year olds. Whole‐genome genotype data were generated using Illumina omni 2.5M arrays and untyped variants were imputed. Genome‐wide association study (GWAS) was conducted using linear mixed model regression to account for population structure. Linear regression analysis was used to assess whether variants previously associated with BP (p < 5.0 × 10−8) in published BP GWASs were replicated in our study.ResultsOf the 14 million variants analyzed among 815 adolescents, none reached genome‐wide significance (p < 5.0×10−8) for association with systolic or diastolic BP. The most strongly associated variants were rs181430167 (p = 6.8 × 10−7) for systolic BP and rs12991132 (p = 4.0 × 10−7) for diastolic BP. Thirty‐three (17 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for systolic BP, 15 SNPs for diastolic BP and one SNP for both) of 330 variants previously identified as associated with BP were replicated in this study, but none remained significant after accounting for multiple testing.ConclusionVariants showing suggestive associations are worthy of future investigation. Replication results suggest that variants influencing adolescent BP may overlap somewhat with those already established in previous studies, largely based on adults in Western settings.
Muscle thickness measured by ultrasound is reduced in neuromuscular disorders and correlates with clinical and electrophysiological findings
Authors: Abraham Alon , Drory Vivian E. , Fainmesser Yaara , Algom Avi A. , Lovblom Leif E. , Bril Vera 
Published: September 2019

AbstractIntroductionNerve imaging has a limited role in axonal and muscle fiber loss. In this study, we sought to explore the utility of standardized muscle ultrasound (US) assessment in these clinical scenarios.MethodsWe performed a prospective study from March to August 2018 of patients attending the neuromuscular clinic. All patients underwent clinical evaluation and standardized muscle thickness measurement by US in seven muscles.ResultsThe study cohort consisted of 114 participants, including patients with polyneuropathy, motor neuron disease, and myopathy. The smallest distal muscle thickness was found in patients with polyneuropathy, while the smallest proximal muscle thickness was found in patients with myopathy. Muscle thickness was strongly correlated with muscle strength (r
2 = 0.62), electrophysiological findings (r
2: 0.44‐0.55), and disability score (r
2 = 0.53).DiscussionStandardized muscle thickness measured by US shows diagnostic usefulness in a spectrum of neuromuscular disorders and correlates with clinical and electrophysiological findings.
The Importance of Live-Well Transport in the Physiological Disturbance Experienced by Smallmouth Bass in Tournaments on Large Water Bodies
Authors: Brooke Thomas C. , Elliott Connor W. , Holden Jeremy , Wang Yuxiang , Hornsby Rachael L. , Tufts Bruce L. 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
Competitive fishing has become an important element of recreational fisheries for black bass Micropterus spp. in North America. The vast majority of competitive events involve a “live-release” format, where fish are held in a boat's live well after being angled and are then released following the weigh-in. We examined the frequency and importance of physical impacts between Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu and the walls of the live well when tournaments are held on large water bodies. Using an experimental live well that included a video recorder, we determined the number of collisions between Smallmouth Bass and the walls of the live well when a 5.6-m boat was driven on Lake Ontario. During these experiments, 10 of 28 Smallmouth Bass lost equilibrium and became inverted. Live-well transport also resulted in elevations of intracellular enzymes in blood plasma that were used as indicators of cell damage. The results of these experiments indicate that physical impacts with the walls of the live well may be an important factor contributing to the physiological disturbance experienced by Smallmouth Bass in tournaments on large water bodies. Our results also show that this disturbance can be reduced by simply padding the live well. These findings have important implications for fisheries managers, as well as the competitive angling community.