bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Construction of a HOXA11-AS-Interacted Network in Keloid Fibroblasts Using Integrated Bioinformatic Analysis and in Vitro Validation
Authors: Wang Qiang , Wang Wei , Sun Xiao-jie 
Published: March 2022

Background: Expression of the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) HOXA11-AS significantly increased in keloids by unclarified molecular regulation mechanisms.Methods: Using successfully primary cultured keloid-derived fibroblasts from central region of chronic keloid tissues (sample 0), small interfering RNAs were designed and transfected into two keloid fibroblast samples (samples 1 and 2) to knockdown HOXA11-AS. One nonspecific transfection control (sample 3) and one blank control (sample 4) were used to remove nonspecific overlap from the studied group. The lncRNAs, messenger RNAs (mRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs) of five samples were sequenced to identify differentially expressed (DE) profiles in HOXA11-AS-knockdown keloid fibroblasts in samples 1 and 2 (by intersection), which facilitated removal of overlap with the nonspecific controls (samples 3 and 4, by union). Using stepwise bioinformatic analysis, a HOXA11-AS-interacted competing endogenous network (ceRNA) was screened based on three DE profiles.Results: Keloid fibroblasts with or without HOXA11-AS as well as with or without nonspecific interferences were successfully constructed respectively. A total of 1,396 mRNAs and 39 lncRNAs were significantly changed in keloid fibroblast with HOXA11-AS knockdown. Simultaneously, 1,626 mRNAs and 99 lncRNAs were significantly changed in keloid fibroblast with nonspecific interference. With removal of nonspecific overlap, a lncRNA–mRNA interactive network characterized by close natural/intronic antisense relationship was initially constructed in keloid fibroblast with HOXA11-AS knockdown. Based on this network, a lncRNA–mRNA–protein interaction network was extended by integration of the human protein–protein interaction network. Significant functional genes were screened using PageRank algorithm in the extended network. Three genes, including SNED1, NIPAL3, and VTN, were validated by real-time PCR in HOXA11-AS-knockdown keloid fibroblasts. Only NIPAL3 was predicted to be a target gene for HOXA11-AS via three competing endogenous miRNAs (hsa-miRNA-19a-3p, hsa-miR-141-3p, and hsa-miR-140-5p).Conclusion: An interactive network of HOXA11-AS–three miRNAs–NIPAL3 was predicted in keloid fibroblasts by integrative bioinformatic analysis and in vitro validation.
Na/K-ATPase Gene Expression in the Human Cochlea: A Study Using mRNA in situ Hybridization and Super-Resolution Structured Illumination Microscopy
Authors: Liu Wei , Rask-Andersen Helge 
Published: March 2022

BackgroundThe pervasive Na/K-ATPase pump is highly expressed in the human cochlea and is involved in the generation of the endocochlear potential as well as auditory nerve signaling and relay. Its distribution, molecular organization and gene regulation are essential to establish to better understand inner ear function and disease. Here, we analyzed the expression and distribution of the ATP1A1, ATP1B1, and ATP1A3 gene transcripts encoding the Na/K-ATPase α1, α3, and β1 isoforms in different domains of the human cochlea using RNA in situ hybridization.Materials and MethodsArchival paraformaldehyde-fixed sections derived from surgically obtained human cochleae were used to label single mRNA gene transcripts using the highly sensitive multiplex RNAscope® technique. Localization of gene transcripts was performed by super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (SR-SIM) using fluorescent-tagged probes. GJB6 encoding of the protein connexin30 served as an additional control.ResultsSingle mRNA gene transcripts were seen as brightly stained puncta. Positive and negative controls verified the specificity of the labeling. ATP1A1 and ATP1B1 gene transcripts were demonstrated in the organ of Corti, including the hair and supporting cells. In the stria vascularis, these transcripts were solely expressed in the marginal cells. A large number of ATP1B1 gene transcripts were found in the spiral ganglion cell soma, outer sulcus, root cells, and type II fibrocytes. The ATP1B1 and ATP1A3 gene transcripts were rarely detected in axons.DiscussionSurgically obtained inner ear tissue can be used to identify single mRNA gene transcripts using high-resolution fluorescence microscopy after prompt formaldehyde fixation and chelate decalcification. A large number of Na/K-ATPase gene transcripts were localized in selected areas of the cochlear wall epithelium, fibrocyte networks, and spiral ganglion, confirming the enzyme’s essential role for human cochlear function.
The Impact of Statin Use and Breast Cancer Recurrence - A Retrospective Study in Singapore
Authors: Sim Yirong , Lim Cindy , Phyu Nitar , Tan Kiat Tee Benita , Chew Lita Sui Tjien , Wong Chow Yin , Madhukumar Preetha , Yong Wei Sean , Lim Sue Zann , Hamzah Julie Liana Bte , Tan Si Ying , Chay Wen Yee , Wong Fuh Yong , Tan Puay Hoon , Tan Veronique Kiak-Mien 
Published: March 2022

IntroductionStatins, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, are commonly used cholesterol-lowering medications which are also increasingly recognized to have anti-cancer properties for various cancers, including breast cancer. Most clinical evidence supports a protective effect of statin on reducing breast cancer recurrence, particularly in hormone-receptor positive breast cancers.This study seeks to study the impact of statin use on breast cancer recurrence in an Asian population.MethodsThis is a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with breast cancer at the National Cancer Centre and Singapore General Hospital from 2005-2015. Statin use was defined as use after surgery. Associations between statin use, breast cancer recurrence and overall survival were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression with adjustment for age, TNM stage, grade, ER/HER2 status, and co-morbidities. Associations between statin-use and disease-specific survival were estimated using competing risks regression.ResultsA total of 7858 females with breast cancer were studied, 1353(17.2%) were statin users, 6505(82.8%) were non-statin users, with a median follow-up of 8.67 years. Distribution of cancer stage, histology, molecular subtypes and grades were similar in both groups. Estrogen receptor(ER) positive (HR 0.57,95%CI 0.43-0.76,p&lt;0.001) and HER2 negative (HR 0.74,95%CI 0.57-0.96,p=0.026) invasive cancers had a lower risk of recurrence in statin users. Statin users trended towards a long term recurrence-risk reduction (all subtypes,HR 0.48,p=0.002; ER-, HR 0.34,p=0.036; HER2+,HR 0.10,p=0.002). The risk-reduction benefit is not appreciated in statin users with DCIS, possibly due to small recurrence event numbers. Disease-specific survival benefit was seen in statin users with ER+ cancers (adjusted SHR 0.71,95%CI 0.53-0.96,p=0.027), especially ER+ invasive cancers (adjusted SHR 0.72, 95%CI 0.53-0.97,p=0.028), but with no statistically significant benefit in overall survival for statin users (all subtypes).ConclusionThis is the first known retrospective study on the effect of statin use and breast cancer recurrence in an Asian population. Similar to previous international studies, statin use is associated with a risk reduction in breast cancer recurrence. This is especially beneficial in patients who have ER+ and HER2- invasive breast cancer. Statin use is also associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer recurrence in all subtypes of breast cancer in the long term (&gt;6 years post diagnosis).
Epimedium for Osteoporosis Based on Western and Eastern Medicine: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shi Shihua , Wang Fei , Huang Yong , Chen Bonan , Pei Caixia , Huang Demei , Wang Xiaomin , Wang Yilan , Kou Shuo , Li Weihao , Ma Tianhong , Wu Yongcan , Wang Zhenxing 
Published: March 2022

Background: The efficacy of conventional pharmacotherapy on osteoporosis was limited and accompanied with serious side effects. Epimedium might have the potential to be developed as agents to treat osteoporosis. The present systematic review and meta-analysis integrating Western medicine and Eastern medicine (“WE” medicine) was to evaluate the efficacy of Epimedium on osteoporosis.Methods: Eleven electronic databases were searched to identify the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing Epimedium as an adjunctive or alternative versus conventional pharmacotherapy during osteoporosis. Bone mineral density (BMD), effective rate, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were measured as primary outcomes. The secondary outcomes were pain relief time, bone metabolic markers, and adverse events. Research quality evaluation was conducted according to the modified Jadad scale. Review Manager 5.4 was utilized to perform analyses, and the data were pooled using a random-effect or fixed-effect model to calculate the weighted mean difference (WMD), standardized mean difference (SMD), risk ratio (RR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI).Results: Twelve RCTs recruiting 1,017 patients were eligible. Overall, it was possible to verify that, in the Epimedium plus conventional pharmacotherapy group, BMD was significantly improved (p = 0.03), effective rate was significantly improved (p = 0.0001), and VAS was significantly decreased (p = 0.01) over those in control group. When compared to conventional pharmacotherapy, Epimedium used alone improved BMD (p = 0.009) and effective rate (p &lt; 0.0001). VAS was lower (p &lt; 0.00001), and the level of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was significantly decreased (p = 0.01) in patients taking Epimedium alone compared with those given conventional pharmacotherapy. Results of subgroup analyses yielded that the recommended duration of Epimedium as an adjuvant was &gt;3 months (p = 0.03), the recommended duration of Epimedium as an alternative was ≤3 months (p = 0.002), and Epimedium decoction brought more benefits (SMD = 2.33 [1.92, 2.75]) compared with other dosage forms. No significant publication bias was identified based on statistical tests (t = 0.81, p = 0.440).Conclusions: Epimedium may improve BMD and effective rate and relieve pain as an adjuvant or alternative; Epimedium as an alternative might regulate bone metabolism, especially ALP, with satisfying clinical efficacy during osteoporosis. More rigorous RCTs are warranted to confirm these results.
Pancreas Fat, an Early Marker of Metabolic Risk? A Magnetic Resonance Study of Chinese and Caucasian Women: TOFI_Asia Study
Authors: Sequeira Ivana R. , Yip Wilson C. , Lu Louise W. W. , Jiang Yannan , Murphy Rinki , Plank Lindsay D. , Cooper Garth J. S. , Peters Carl N. , Lu Jun , Hollingsworth Kieren G. , Poppitt Sally D. 
Published: March 2022

ObjectivePrevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is disproportionately higher in younger outwardly lean Asian Chinese compared to matched Caucasians. Susceptibility to T2D is hypothesised due to dysfunctional adipose tissue expansion resulting in adverse abdominal visceral and organ fat accumulation. Impact on early risk, particularly in individuals characterised by the thin-on-the-outside-fat-on-the-inside (TOFI) phenotype, is undetermined.MethodsSixty-eight women [34 Chinese, 34 Caucasian; 18–70 years; body mass index (BMI), 20–45 kg/m2] from the TOFI_Asia study underwent magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy to quantify visceral, pancreas, and liver fat. Total body fat was (TBF) assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, and fasting blood biomarkers were measured. Ethnic comparisons, conducted using two-sample tests and multivariate regressions adjusted for age, % TBF and ethnicity, identified relationships between abdominal ectopic fat depots with fasting plasma glucose (FPG), insulin resistance (HOMA2-IR), and related metabolic clinical risk markers in all, and within ethnic groups.ResultsDespite being younger and of lower bodyweight, Chinese women in the cohort had similar BMI and % TBF compared to their Caucasian counterparts. Protective high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total- and high-molecular weight adiponectin were significantly lower, while glucoregulatory glucagon-like peptide-1 and glucagon significantly higher, in Chinese. There were no ethnic differences between % pancreas fat and % liver fat. However, at low BMI, % pancreas and % liver fat were ∼1 and ∼2% higher in Chinese compared to Caucasian women. In all women, % pancreas and visceral adipose tissue had the strongest correlation with FPG, independent of age and % TBF. Percentage (%) pancreas fat and age positively contributed to variance in FPG, whereas % TBF, amylin and C-peptide contributed to IR which was 0.3 units higher in Chinese.ConclusionPancreas fat accumulation may be an early adverse event, in TOFI individuals, with peptides highlighting pancreatic dysfunction as drivers of T2D susceptibility. Follow-up is warranted to explore causality.
The Dependence of Urinary Bladder Responses on Extracellular Calcium Varies Between Muscarinic, Histamine, 5-HT (Serotonin), Neurokinin, Prostaglandin, and Angiotensin Receptor Activation
Authors: Phelps Charlotte , Chess-Williams Russ , Moro Christian 
Published: March 2022

With many common bladder diseases arising due to abnormal contractions, a greater understanding of the receptor systems involved may aid the development of future treatments. The aim of this study was to identify any difference in the involvement of extracellular calcium (Ca2+) across prominent contractile-mediating receptors within cells lining the bladder. Strips of porcine urothelium and lamina propria were isolated from the urinary bladder dome and mounted in isolated tissue baths containing Krebs-bicarbonate solution, perfused with carbogen gas at 37°C. Tissue contractions, as well as changes to the frequency and amplitude of spontaneous activity were recorded after the addition of muscarinic, histamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, neurokinin-A, prostaglandin E2, and angiotensin II receptor agonists in the absence and presence of 1 µM nifedipine or nominally zero Ca2+ solution. The absence of extracellular Ca2+ influx after immersion into nominally zero Ca2+ solution, or the addition of nifedipine, significantly inhibited the contractile responses (p &lt; 0.05 for all) after stimulation with carbachol (1 µM), histamine (100 µM), 5-hydroxytryptamine (100 µM), neurokinin-A (300 nM), prostaglandin E2 (10 µM), and angiotensin II (100 nM). On average, Ca2+ influx from extracellular sources was responsible for between 20–50% of receptor-mediated contractions. This suggests that although the specific requirement of Ca2+ on contractile responses varies depending on the receptor, extracellular Ca2+ plays a key role in mediating G protein-coupled receptor contractions of the urothelium and lamina propria.
Trajectory Analysis of Suicidal Ideation in Spanish College Students Using Ecological Momentary Assessment
Authors: Layrón Folgado José Enrique , Conchado Peiró Andrea , Marco José H. , Barrigón María Luisa , Baca-García Enrique , Pérez Rodríguez Sandra 
Published: March 2022

IntroductionSuicide is a preventable death in young people. It is well known that suicide behavior is a multicausal phenomenon. However, suicidal ideation (SI) commonly underlies suicide, and Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) can help us to better characterize it and its risk and protective factors in the short term. We aimed, first, to investigate the estimated prevalence and trajectories of SI in a community sample of Spanish college students using an EMA methodology and, second, explore the associations between risk and protective factors and SI categorized as moderate or low.Materials and MethodsA total of 737 participants followed the EMA during a period of 6 months. We estimated the prevalence and trajectories of SI and the associations between depressive symptoms, positive and negative affect, thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, cognitive reappraisal, emotional suppression, and purpose in life with the MEmind smartphone App. SI was assessed 14 times during this period.ResultsTwenty-eight participants referred to SI at least once in longitudinal assessments. We found a lack of curvature and, thus, a relatively stable trajectory of SI. Two groups of latent dimensions were observed related to risk and protective factors of SI. One latent dimension of the risk factors (higher levels of thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, depressive symptoms, negative affect, and emotional suppression) best represented the group with moderate levels of SI, and a second latent dimension of protective variables (positive affect, cognitive reappraisal, and purpose in life) best represented the group with lower levels of SI.DiscussionThese findings may indicate that students with a sense of having a life worth living, in addition to having the ability to reevaluate their negative beliefs, are less likely to experience high levels of SI. Therefore, purpose in life would be a protective factor against the presence of SI.
Analysis of Laparoscopic Ultrathin Choledochoscope Curative Effect on Common Bile Duct Exploration and Choledocholithotomy in 47 Cases
Authors: Liu Yang , Yang Tao , Liu Jia-Hong , Meng Xuan , Xia Hong-Tian 
Published: March 2022

ObjectiveThe aim of the present study is to summarize the experience of using a 2. 7 mm choledochoscope for laparoscopic cholecystectomy combined with an ultrathin choledochoscope for common bile duct exploration and choledocholithotomy in the treatment of cholecystolithiasis associated with choledocholithiasis after the implementation of strict inclusion and exclusion criteria.MethodsA retrospective analysis of 47 patients with cholecystolithiasis complicated with choledocholithiasis who were treated in the hepatopancreatobiliary surgery department of the Chinese People's Liberated Army General Hospital between January 2015 and December 2019 was performed in the present study. Clinical data of laparoscopic cholecystectomy combined with ultrathin choledochoscope transcystic duct exploration for common bile duct and choledocholithotomy.ResultsAll 47 patients completed the operation successfully. The gallbladder duct was closed using a surgical clamp. Only 2 patients were administered with an abdominal drainage tube. The operation time was 50–160 min, the intraoperative blood loss was 5–50 ml, and the postoperative hospital stay was 2–8 days. No patients had serious complications, such as bile leakage, postoperative bleeding, cholangitis, biliary pancreatitis, and wound infection. Minor complications, such as abdominal pain (Abdominal pain was defined as a patient felt tolerable or unbearable abdominal pain but improved or disappeared with medication) and diarrhea, were present in a few patients; these improved after conservative treatment. There was no recurrence of calculi during the 1–5 years of follow-up, and the patient quality of life was good.ConclusionLaparoscopic cholecystectomy combined with ultrathin choledochoscope common bile duct exploration and choledocholithotomy is a safe and effective method after adopting strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. This technology was started in the First Medical Center, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital in September 2009, and it has become extremely mature in the past 5 years.
REESTRUCTURACIÓN Y ANÁLISIS DE CONFIABILIDAD DEL INSTRUMENTO DE MEDICIÓN: EVALUACIÓN DOCENTE DE POSGRADO DE UNA UNIVERSIDAD PÚBLICA EN EL SURESTE DE MÉXICO
Authors: López-González Hugo Enrique , Peralta-Mazariego Enrique Roberto 
Published: March 2022

En este artículo se presenta la reestructuración y el análisis de confiabilidad de un instrumento de medición implementado para la evaluación docente de posgrado de una Universidad Pública en el Sureste de México. La necesidad parte de que las dimensiones y las variables que lo conformaban, no eran objetivas para realizar los análisis pertinentes en los procesos de evaluación de la enseñanza aprendizaje implementados por parte del profesor al interior del aula, ya sea esta última, presencial o virtual; es por ello, que, en la reestructuración de dicho instrumento, se proponen 6 dimensiones conformadas por 31 ítems; por lo tanto, a través del análisis de confiabilidad denominado Alpha de Cronbach, se obtuvo como resultado .912, lo que se considera aceptable para su implementación y desarrollo.
Rayu : A Competitive Strategy Model of Wood Craft Business in Soloraya Post Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Aqmala Diana , Putra Febrianur Ibnu Fitroh Sukono 
Published: March 2022

Objective: The woodcraft business sector in Soloraya has promising opportunities, but currently, the number of businesses is decreasing due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This research aims to analyze the effect of market orientation and product innovation on marketing performance mediated by competitive strategy. Research Design & Methods: This study uses a quantitative method surveying 120 woodcraft businesses in Soloraya. The sample was obtained using a purposive sampling method with the business's criteria for more than 5 years and was analyzed using the Structural Equation Model (SEM) using PLS to obtain comprehensive results. Findings: The results show that market orientation and product innovation positively and significantly affect competitive strategy and business performance. Competitive strategy can also mediate the effect of market orientation and product innovation on marketing performance. Implications & Recommendations: Market orientation implements a marketing concept that can provide superior value to consumers. The competitive strategy is intended to maintain a level of gain and a sustainable position when facing competition. When increasing the competitive strategy, it needs to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the business, so when determining the price, form, and quality as a competitive advantage, the competitors cannot be imitated perfectly. Contribution & Value Added: This competitive strategy model provides the enterprise with more significant opportunities to expand market share and rise from adversity due to the Covid-19 pandemic to continue to exist in the industry. In addition, this model can be applied to other areas so that this type of business does not experience a shortage of supplies.
Digital Micro-entrepreneurship in Peer-to-Peer Accommodation Sector: Evidence from Sri Lanka
Authors: Munasinghe Lasika Madhawa , Gunawardhana Terans , Wickramaarachchi Nishani Champika , Ariyawansa Ranthilaka Gedara 
Published: March 2022

Objective: Digital micro-entrepreneurship in the tourism and hospitality industry is a novel phenomenon driven by accommodation sharing platforms like Airbnb. The purpose of the study is to explore the attributes, motivations, perceptions, benefits, and challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the peer-to-peer accommodation sector driven by the Airbnb Platform. Research Design & Methods: This study used a qualitative research design that followed inductive content analysis assisted by thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with twelve micro-entrepreneurs who provide peer-to-peer accommodations in Sri Lanka. Findings: Peer-to-Peer accommodation entrepreneurs were motivated mainly by the curiosity to try Airbnb, followed by monetary and social gains. Amidst several challenges, such as the uncleanliness of some guests and violation of house rules, peer-to-peer micro-entrepreneurs enjoy their role as hosts and are satisfied with the overall hosting experience. Implications & Recommendations: The study provided peer-to-peer accommodation hosts a sense of empowerment and an opportunity to make their voice heard, which is crucial in developing an impartial public debate to develop the right policies for the peer-to-peer accommodation sector in Sri Lanka. Contribution & Value Added: The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on entrepreneurship in the informal sector by viewing Airbnb hosts as informal microentrepreneurs with distinct attributes, motives, perceptions, benefits and challenges while providing valuable insights for various stakeholders in the industry.