bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
miRNA‐137‐5p improves spatial memory and cognition in Alzheimer's mice by targeting ubiquitin‐specific peptidase 30
Authors: Jiang Yang , Bian Wei , Chen Jing , Cao Xiaopan , Dong ChunYao , Xiao Ying , Xu Bing , Sun XiaoHong 
Published: December 2023

AbstractBackgroundAlzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder causing progressive dementia. Research suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) could serve as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for AD. Reduced levels of miR‐137 have been observed in the brains of AD patients, but its specific role and downstream mechanisms remain unclear. This study sought to examine the therapeutic potential of miR‐137‐5p agomir in alleviating cognitive dysfunction induced in AD models and explore its potential mechanisms.MethodsThis study utilized bioinformatic analysis and a dual‐luciferase reporter assay to investigate the relationship between miR‐137‐5p and ubiquitin‐specific peptidase 30 (USP30). In vitro experiments were conducted using SH‐SY5Y cells to assess the impact of miR‐137‐5p on Aβ1–42 neurotoxicity. In vivo experiments on AD mice evaluated the effects of miR‐137‐5p on cognition, Aβ1–42 deposition, Tau hyperphosphorylation, and neuronal apoptosis, as well as its influence on USP30 levels.ResultsIt was discovered that miR‐137‐5p mimics efficiently counteract Aβ1–42 neurotoxicity in SH‐SY5Y cells, a protective effect that is negated by USP30 overexpression. In vivo experiments demonstrated that miR‐137‐5p enhances the cognition and mobility of AD mice, significantly reducing Aβ1–42 deposition, Tau hyperphosphorylation, and neuronal apoptosis within the hippocampus and cortex regions. Mechanistically, miR‐137‐5p significantly suppresses USP30 levels in mice, though USP30 overexpression partially buffers against miR‐137‐5p‐induced AD symptom improvement.ConclusionOur study proposes that miR‐137‐5p, by instigating the downregulation of USP30, has the potential to act as a novel and promising therapeutic target for AD.
Long‐Term Downregulation of the Sodium Channel Gene Scn8a Is Therapeutic in Mouse Models of SCN8A Epilepsy
Authors: Hill* Sophie F. , Yu* Wenxi , Ziobro Julie , Chalasani Sanjna , Reger Faith , Meisler Miriam H. 
Published: December 2023

ObjectiveDe novo mutations of the voltage‐gated sodium channel gene SCN8A cause developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE). Most pathogenic variants result in gain‐of‐function changes in activity of the sodium channel Nav1.6, poorly controlled seizures, and significant comorbidities. In previous work, an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) reduced Scn8a transcripts and increased lifespan after neonatal administration to a mouse model. Here, we tested long‐term ASO treatment initiated after seizure onset, as required for clinical application.MethodsASO treatment was initiated after observation of a convulsive seizure and repeated at 4 to 6 week intervals for 1 year. We also tested the long‐term efficacy of an AAV10‐short hairpin RNA (shRNA) virus administered on P1.ResultsRepeated treatment with the Scn8a ASO initiated after seizure onset provided long‐term survival and reduced seizure frequency during a 12 month observation period. A single treatment with viral shRNA was also protective during 12 months of observation.InterpretationDownregulation of Scn8a expression that is initiated after the onset of seizures is effective for long‐term treatment in a model of SCN8A‐DEE. Repeated ASO administration or a single dose of viral shRNA prevented seizures and extended survival through 12 months of observation. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:754–759
Synthesis of Diels–Alder bond and hydrogen bond synergistic shape memory self‐healing polyurethane elastomers
Authors: Zhang Zhichao , Wang Muqun , Cao Wenhao , Duan Xueying , Xie Ting , Li Zequan , Gao Wei , Luo Fan 
Published: December 2023

AbstractSelf‐healing materials exhibit the ability to repair damage and restore their function. Shape memory assisted self‐healing (SMASH) materials are smart materials that automatically close localized microscopic cracks and repair these cracks by bonding damaged surfaces. A novel temperature‐responsive SMASH polymer composite was established by introducing Diels–Alder bonds (D–A) in polyurethane. In this article, dynamic D–A produced by the polymerization of furfurylamine and 4,4’‐bismaleimidodiphenylmethane was introduced into the molecular chain to enable the polyurethane elastomers containing D–A bonds to acquire self‐repairing capability. The self‐healing properties of the synthesized material were examined using polarized light microscopy, which revealed excellent fracture healing. The mechanical properties before and after healing were tested, in which the initial maximum tensile strength of the material could reach 7.9 MPa, and the maximum tensile strength after self‐healing was 7.3 MPa, with a repair rate of 91.8%; the maximum elongation was 585.9%, and the maximum elongation after self‐healing was 469.5%, with a repair rate of 80.1%. In addition, this material has excellent repair performance for microcracks of different scales, and the micromolten part of the surface after heating can fill the micrometer cracks, play the role of antiaging, and extend the service life of the material.
Spatial and temporal diversity of fish captured by light traps in various habitats in coastal waters in the oldest marine protected area in Vietnam and its implications for conservation
Authors: Pham Manh Hung , Panfili Jacques , Simier Monique , Sindou Pauline , Hoang Duc Huy , Durand Jean‐Dominique 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Vietnam's oldest marine protected area, the Con Dao Archipelago, hosts a high diversity of fishes, but they are not taken into account in its management. Knowledge of the spatial and temporal diversity of fishes is critical to identify the ecological functions of protected habitats, including as nurseries and feeding grounds. One way to assess diversity is using light traps that target young fish stages.
Fish were collected monthly from June 2016 to May 2017 using light traps in three main habitats: seagrass beds, coral reefs and the harbour. Morphometry and DNA barcoding were used to identify the species caught.
A total of 11,293 fish were collected, of which 1,248 were barcoded and assigned to 158 species belonging to 81 genera and 34 families, evidence that coral reefs and seagrass beds in Con Dao marine protected area (MPA) are home to a highly diverse and abundant community of fish species. Species richness and Shannon diversity indices did not differ significantly among sampling sites, but both species composition and diversity indices differed in the wet and dry seasons. The abundance of fish was related to sea water temperatures, which varied significantly depending on the month. During the dry season, fish diversity peaked in April, when the water temperature was highest.
Conserving fish in Con Dao MPA is important not only for the characterization of the trophic network in coral reefs and seagrass beds but also for preservation of coral reef ecosystems and endangered species. Ensuring connectivity between coral reefs and seagrass beds in Con Dao MPA would facilitate fish conservation but, at present, the MPA only focuses on protecting fragmented habitats that are home to a number of endangered mammal species. Local authorities should establish a continuum of protected areas along coastal habitats and seasonal controls on fishing as part of sustainable management of MPAs.
A 21‐year recovery trend in green turtle nesting activity: 2002–2022
Authors: Sönmez Bektaş , Mestav Burcu , Özdilek Şükran Yalçın 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Long‐term monitoring and conservation are crucial for effective protection, since sea turtles migrate cyclically every 2–3 years and lay multiple nests during a breeding season. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the long‐term trend of nesting activities of green turtles over a 21‐year period (2002–2022) on Samandağ beach.
An early morning survey was conducted every year during both nesting and hatching seasons. The trend analyses in nesting activities were performed using Mann–Kendall and Sen's slope tests together with the augmented Dickey–Fuller stationarity test.
The nest count and female abundance increased significantly, whereas clutch size, fecundity, and hatching success tended to decrease insignificantly. The percentage change between the most recent and oldest 3‐year mean nest count and mean female abundance, which is performed to comply with the Red List assessment method used by the International Union for Conservation of Nature Marine Turtle Specialist Group, was 769% and 764% respectively.
Samandağ nesting population accounts for one‐third of the Mediterranean's total nest count and one‐fourth of its total female abundance. The decrease in clutch size and fecundity may be due to the recruitment of individuals with smaller body sizes or malnutrition as a result of population growth. There was an increase in the number of dead embryos and a decline in hatching success. This may be explained by density‐dependent population regulation as a result of an increase in the number of nests.
It may be argued that adherence to a uniform strategy and the maintenance of continuous protection through collaboration with governmental and non‐governmental organizations with scientifically rigorous methodology are significant factors contributing to the high recovery.
This study emphasizes the necessity of adopting a comprehensive conservation approach encompassing both foraging habitats and the significant role played by the population in Samandağ in the proliferation of Mediterranean green turtles.
Evaluation of antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of Polygonum cognatum Meisn. and phytochemical analysis of effective extracts
Authors: Gözcü Sefa , Uğan Rüstem Anıl , Özbek Hilal , Gündoğdu Betül , Güvenalp Zühal 
Published: December 2023

AbstractPolygonum cognatum Meisn. (Polygonaceae) is used both as food and as a folk medicine to treat diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the extracts, along with isolated compounds, from P. cognatum aerial parts on diabetes. In vitro studies were conducted using an α‐glucosidase inhibitory assay, while in vivo antidiabetic studies were carried out on streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats. Effective extracts were subjected to isolation studies, and structures of the compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic methods. The ethyl acetate and n‐butanol extracts had the highest effect in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. They also decreased aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and malondialdehyde levels, while increasing glutathione and superoxide dismutase activity in rats. From the active extracts, 11 phenolic compounds were isolated and characterized. Among the isolated compounds, quercetin was found to be the most active according to α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity studies. This study provided scientific evidence for the traditional use of P. cognatum as a folk medicine for treating diabetes. The findings suggest that the ethyl acetate and n‐butanol extracts, as well as quercetin, have the potential for development as antidiabetic agents.
Evaluating personalized circulating tumor DNA detection for early‐stage lung cancer
Authors: Huang Haihua , Kai Zhentian , Wang Yuchen , Zhang Xiaomiao , Wang Jin , Zhang Wei , Xue Qian , Zhang Hang , Jin Hansong , Meng Peize , Zhang Shuilong , Yang Yueyue , Yang Honghua , Liang Wanning , Zha Guangbing , Luo Peng , Xu Yan , Shi Weiwei , Ruan Zheng 
Published: December 2023

AbstractCirculating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has been widely used as a minimally invasive biomarker in clinical routine. However, a number of factors such as panel design, sample quality, patients' disease stages are known to influence ctDNA detection sensitivity. In this study, we systematically evaluated common factors associated with the variability of ctDNA detection in plasma and investigated ctDNA abundance in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Whole exome profiling was conducted on 61 tumor tissue samples to identify tumor‐specific variants, which were then used to design personalized assay MarRyDa® for ctDNA detection. DNA extracted from BAL fluid and plasma were genotyped using MarRyDa® platform. Our analysis showed that histological subtypes and disease stages had significant differences in ctDNA detection rate. Furthermore, we found that DNA purified from BAL supernatants contains the highest levels of ctDNA compared with BAL precipitates and plasma; therefore, utilizing BAL supernatants for tumor detection might provide additional benefits. Finally, we demonstrated that tumor cellularity played significant roles in the design of personalized ctDNA panel which eventually impacts ctDNA detection sensitivity. We suggest setting a flexible criteria for sample quality control and utilization of BAL might benefit more patients in clinics.
The anticancer impacts of free and liposomal caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on melanoma cell line (A375)
Authors: Bahrami Azita , Farasat Alireza , Zolghadr Leila , Sabaghi Yalda , PourFarzad Farnaz , Gheibi Nematollah 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe deadliest type of skin cancer, malignant melanoma, is also the reason for the majority of skin cancer‐related deaths. The objective of this article was to investigate the efficiency of free caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and liposomal CAPE in inducing apoptosis in melanoma cells (A375) in in vitro. CAPE was loaded into liposomes made up of hydrogenated soybean phosphatidylcholine, cholesterol, and 1,2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3 phosphoethanolamine‐N‐[methoxy (polyethylene glycol)‐2000], and their physicochemical properties were assessed. (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) test was performed for comparing the cytotoxicity of free CAPE and liposomal CAPE at dosages of 10, 15, 25, 50, 75 and the highest dose of 100 μg/mL for period of 24 and 48 h on A375 cell line to calculate IC50. Apoptosis and necrosis were evaluated in A375 melanoma cancer cells using flow cytometry. Atomic force microscopy was utilized to determine the nanomechanical attributes of the membrane structure of A375 cells. To determine whether there were any effects on apoptosis, the expression of PI3K/AKT1 and BAX/BCL2 genes was analyzed using the real‐time polymerase chain reaction technique. According to our results, the maximum amount of drug release from nanoliposomes was determined to be 91% and the encapsulation efficiency of CAPE in liposomes was 85.24%. Also, the release of free CAPE was assessed to be 97%. Compared with liposomal CAPE, free CAPE showed a greater effect on reducing the cancer cell survival after 24 and 48 h. Therefore, IC50 values of A375 cells treated with free and liposomal CAPE were calculated as 47.34 and 63.39 μg/mL for 24 h. After 48 h of incubation of A375 cells with free and liposomal CAPE, IC50 values were determined as 30.55 and 44.83 μg/mL, respectively. The flow cytometry analysis revealed that the apoptosis induced in A375 cancer cells was greater when treated with free CAPE than when treated with liposomal CAPE. The highest nanomechanical changes in the amount of cell adhesion forces, and elastic modulus value were seen in free CAPE. Subsequently, the greatest decrease in PI3K/AKT1 gene expression ratio occurred in free CAPE.
An approach of separating the overlapped cells or nuclei based on the outer Canny edges and morphological erosion
Authors: Zhang Wenfei , Wang Zhenzhou 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIn biomedicine, the automatic processing of medical microscope images plays a key role in the subsequent analysis and diagnosis. Cell or nucleus segmentation is one of the most challenging tasks for microscope image processing. Due to the frequently occurred overlapping, few segmentation methods can achieve satisfactory segmentation accuracy yet. In this paper, we propose an approach to separate the overlapped cells or nuclei based on the outer Canny edges and morphological erosion. The threshold selection is first used to segment the foreground and background of cell or nucleus images. For each binary connected domain in the segmentation image, an intersection based edge selection method is proposed to choose the outer Canny edges of the overlapped cells or nuclei. The outer Canny edges are used to generate a binary cell or nucleus image that is then used to compute the cell or nucleus seeds by the proposed morphological erosion method. The nuclei of the Human U2OS cells, the mouse NIH3T3 cells and the synthetic cells are used for evaluating our proposed approach. The quantitative quantification accuracy is computed by the Dice score and 95.53% is achieved by the proposed approach. Both the quantitative and the qualitative comparisons show that the accuracy of the proposed approach is better than those of the area constrained morphological erosion (ACME) method, the iterative erosion (IE) method, the morphology and watershed (MW) method, the Generalized Laplacian of Gaussian filters (GLGF) method and ellipse fitting (EF) method in separating the cells or nuclei in three publicly available datasets.
Intracardiac echocardiography is a promising strategy for guiding closure of the left atrial appendage
Authors: Ding Xueyan , Xiang Kefa , Qian Congli , Hou Xu , Wu Feng 
Published: December 2023

AbstractBackground and AimsPercutaneous transcatheter left atrial appendage (LAA) closure (LAAC) is an effective approach for preventing ischemic stroke in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation patients. Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE), a new imaging modality, is a promising strategy for guiding LAAC. This review highlights the various strategies for ICE‐guided‐LAAC as an option for clinical policy.MethodsA comprehensive literature search was conducted of PubMed, ScienceDirect, Ovid Web of Science, SpringerLink, and other notable databases to identify recent peer‐reviewed clinical trials, reviews, and research articles related to ICE and its application in the guidance of LAAC.ResultsVarious methods are used to evaluate the spatial structure and dimensions of the LAA. The main techniques for guiding LAAC are transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), cardiac computed tomography (CTA), and ICE. Among these techniques, the advantages of ICE typically include (1) multiangle and real‐time assessment of intracardiac structure, (2) a reduction in procedural fluoroscopy, (3) reduced operation time and improved workflow in the catheterization laboratory, and (4) the avoidance of general anesthesia and the early detection of complications.ConclusionICE is a promising strategy for the guidance of LAAC. Among the most advanced and recent technological innovations in cardiovascular imaging in general and volume imaging in particular, ICE offers greater efficacy and safety.
Infectious diseases in Afghanistan: Strategies for health system improvement
Authors: Essar Mohammad Yasir , Siddiqui Amna , Head Michael G. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractBackground and AimAfghanistan is grappling with a severe health crisis marked by a high prevalence of infectious diseases, particularly tuberculosis, malaria, HIV, and the added strain of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The nation's healthcare system, already fragile, faces formidable challenges. Socioeconomic constraints, including limited resources and financial barriers, hinder healthcare accessibility, leading to delayed or inadequate care. Environmental factors, such as poor sanitation and crowded living conditions, exacerbate the transmission of diseases, especially waterborne illnesses. Governance issues, encompassing transparency, corruption, and political instability, disrupt healthcare efficiency and resource allocation. Addressing these multifaceted issues is vital to enhance Afghanistan's healthcare system and overall well‐being. The withdrawal of international support has exacerbated these challenges. The primary research goal is to deeply understand Afghanistan's health system, focusing on the major disease burdens: Tuberculosis, Malaria, AIDS, COVID‐19, Measles, Hepatitis, and Cholera. The study aims to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of current approaches, presenting a comprehensive view of challenges and opportunities within the Afghan healthcare system. The research concludes by highlighting policy implications, practical implementation, and offering recommendations for future endeavors.MethodologyThis paper provides a thorough analysis of the literature concerning infectious diseases in Afghanistan and the enhancement of the healthcare system in the nation. A systematic exploration of the literature was conducted through PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The search terms used encompassed “Tuberculosis” OR “TB,” “Malaria,” “acquired immunodeficiency syndrome” OR “AIDS,” “Human immunodeficiency virus” OR “HIV,” “COVID‐19,” “Measles,” “Hepatitis virus,” “Cholera,” “Health system improvement,” and “Afghanistan.” Additionally, external sources like UNICEF, CDC, and WHO were referenced.ResultsIn conclusion, while improving access to vital medicines and vaccines is crucial for enhancing health outcomes in Afghanistan, significant challenges must be addressed to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of such strategies. The Afghan health system's fragile governance, corruption, logistical complexities, and failure to address broader social and economic factors pose significant risks and obstacles to the implementation of proposed health strategies. Therefore, the strategies discussed in this analysis align with key Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3, and their successful implementation will have implications not only for the health and well‐being of Afghanistan but also for global health.ConclusionHence, by adopting a comprehensive approach with complementary interventions as discussed, we can address issues in the Afghan health system and reduce transmissible diseases’ burden, thereby building a better world for all.
Association between mentorship and mental health among junior residents: A nationwide cross‐sectional study in Japan
Authors: Katayama Kohta , Nishizaki Yuji , Takada Toshihiko , Kataoka Koshi , Houchens Nathan , Watari Takashi , Tokuda Yasuharu , Ohira Yoshiyuki 
Published: December 2023

AbstractBackgroundMentorship is a dynamic, reciprocal relationship in which an advanced careerist (mentor) encourages the growth of a novice (mentee). Mentorship may protect the mental health of residents at risk for depression and burnout, yet despite its frequent use and known benefits, limited reports exist regarding the prevalence and mental effects of mentorship on residents in Japan.MethodsWe conducted a cross‐sectional study involving postgraduate year 1 and 2 (PGY‐1 and PGY‐2) residents in Japan who took the General Medicine In‐Training Examination (GM‐ITE) at the end of the 2021 academic year. Data on mentorship were collected using surveys administered immediately following GM‐ITE completion. The primary outcome was the Patient Health Questionaire‐2 (PHQ‐2), which consisted depressed mood and loss of interest. A positive response for either item indicated PHQ‐2 positive. We examined associations between self‐reported mentorship and PHQ‐2 by multi‐level analysis.ResultsOf 4929 residents, 3266 (66.3%) residents reported having at least one mentor. Compared to residents without any mentor, those with a mentor were associated with a lower likelihood of a positive PHQ‐2 response (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.75; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.65–0.86). Mentor characteristic significantly associated with negative PHQ‐2 response was a formal mentor (aOR; 0.68; 95% CI 0.55–0.84).ConclusionsA mentor‐based support system was positively associated with residents' mental health. Further research is needed to determine the quality of mentorship during clinical residency in Japan.