bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neferine, A Novel ROCK1 Targeting Inhibitor, Blocks EMT Process and Induces Apoptosis in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Hu Po , Wan Peng , Xu Anna , Yan Binghui , Liu Chunmei , Xu Qixuan , Wei Zhenhuan , Xu Jingyi , Liu Siqi , Yang Guangming , Pan Yang 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
The compounds derived from Traditional Chinese Medicines have shown various pharmacological activities with unique advantages, especially in the aspect of anti-tumor. Neferine (Nef), a natural compound, extracted from green seed embryos of Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn) also exerts antitumor effects on cancers. In this study, the effects and mechanisms of Nef on epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were evaluated. The results showed that Nef had the antitumor effects in vivo and in vitro. Nef significantly suppressed cell viability and induced apoptosis in NSCLC cells, with elevated reactive oxygen species and reduced BCL-2 /BAX ratio. Nef was also demonstrated to inhibit the invasion, metastasis and EMT process of NSCLC cells, and attenuate EMT-related changes of E-cadherin, N-cadherin and Vimentin at both transcriptional and translational levels. Moreover, we concluded that the inhibitory effects of Nef on EMT was achieved by targeting Rho-associated protein kinase 1 (ROCK1), a protein mediating the process of EMT in various cancers. These results showed that Nef had a significant antitumor effect on NSCLC cells by inducing apoptosis and blocking EMT, providing the therapeutical prospect on NSCLC treatment.
Resveratrol Improves The Antimicrobial Properties Of Polymyxin B Against Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas Aeruginosa
Authors: Qi Lin , Liang Rongxin , Duan Jingjing , Song Songze , Pan Yunjun , Liu Hui , Zhu Mingan , Li Lian 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Resveratrol has been reported to have synergistic effect with different antibiotics against various kinds of bacteria species. In this study, we investigated if resveratrol can increase the antimicrobial efficacy of polymyxin B against multidrug resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa.7 different MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates obtained from clinical specimen were tested with broth microdilution method to determine their sensitivity to polymyxin B and resveratrol respectively. Checkerboard analysis was performed to analyze the biological interaction between resveratrol and polymyxin B. Time-kill assays were carried out to monitor the bactericidal activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa cells. And the biofilm-forming bacteria were selected for biofilm formation analysis.Results: Though resveratrol showed no intrinsic bactericidal activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MIC >512μg/ml for all isolates), it could effectively increase the sensitivity of those isolates to polymyxin B, with the MIC of polymyxin B reduced by 4-8 fold with 64μg/ml resveratrol. The synergistic effect between resveratrol and polymyxin B on bactericidal activity was also observed with all tested isolates (FICI <0.5). Biofilm formation assay showed that resveratrol in combination with polymyxin B significantly inhibited the biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P <0.01). With established biofilm, the sensitivity of the tested isolate to polymyxin B was sharply reduced, leading to high concentration polymyxin B resistance (MIC >32μg/ml). The bactericidal activity of polymyxin B against those cells protected by established biofilm could still be promoted by resveratrol (P <0.01).Conclusions: Resveratrol was able to improve the antimicrobial properties of polymyxin B from various aspects, it may be an ideal partner for the combination therapy of polymyxin B against MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
High WEE2-AS1 expression in CAF-derived small extracellular vesicles inhibits the Hippo pathway to facilitate colorectal cancer progression via promoting degradation of MOB1A
Authors: Yang Peng , Zhang Dongsheng , Wang Tuo , Jin Chi , Peng Chaofan , Ji Jiangzhou , Tan Yuqian , Zhou Jiahui , Wang Lu , Sun Yueming 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Cancer-associated ﬁbroblasts (CAFs) are the most abundant stromal components in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and exert a critical effect on regulating tumor initiation and progression. However, the precise biological functions and underlying mechanisms of CAFs in the TME have yet to be understood. Methods: CAFs and normal fibroblasts (NFs) were isolated from paired fresh CRC and adjacent normal tissues. Small extracellular vesicles were extracted from conditioned medium and plasma by ultracentrifugation or ExoQuick kit. The biological functions of CAF-sEVsWEE2-AS1 were investigated by a series of experiments: CCK8, colony formation, ﬂow cytometric assay, mouse xenograft, AOM/DSS-induced colitis-associated colon cancer, etc. The mechanisms of WEE2-AS1 were demonstrated by luciferase assay, RNA pull-down, etc.Results: We demonstrate that WEE2-AS1 is highly expressed in the CAF-derived small extracellular vesicles (sEVs). Moreover, WEE2-AS1 is markedly higher in plasma sEVs of CRC patients than in healthy subjects and its high level predicts advanced pathological staging and poor survival. Then, we conducted a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments. Elevated expression of WEE2-AS1 in sEVs increases CRC cell proliferation in vitro. Importantly, aberrant CAF-sEVsWEE2-AS1 leads to tumor formation and progression in BALB/c nude mice and promotes AOM/DSS-induced tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, WEE2-AS1 functions as a modular scaffold for the MOB1A and E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase praja2, leading to MOB1A degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Thus, the Hippo pathway is inhibited and more YAP are transported into the nucleus, where they activate downstream gene transcription. Conclusions: CAF-sEVsWEE2-AS1 interacts with MOB1A, promotes degradation of MOB1A, inhibits the Hippo pathway, and facilitates the growth of CRC cells. Hence, WEE2-AS1 may be a promising therapeutic target and circulating biomarker for CRC diagnosis and prognosis.
House screening for malaria control: views and experiences of participants in the RooPfs trial.
Authors: Jones Caroline , Matta A. , Pinder Margaret , D’Alessandro Umberto , Knudsen Jakob , Lindsay Steve W. 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: The housing stock of rural sub-Saharan Africa is changing rapidly. With millions of new homes required over the coming decades, there is an opportunity to protect residents by screening homes from malaria mosquitoes. This study, undertaken in the Upper River Region of The Gambia, explores local perceptions of what a good house should provide for its inhabitants and responses to living in a house that has been modified as part of a randomised control trial designed to assess whether improved housing provided additional protection against clinical malaria in children (the RooPfs trial).Methods: This descriptive, exploratory study was undertaken over 22 months using mixed-methods (informal conversations, observations, focus group discussions, photovoice, and a questionnaire survey) in a parallel convergent design. Analysis was conducted across the data sets using a framework approach. Following coding, the textual data were charted by a priori and emerging themes. These themes were compared with the quantitative survey results. The nature and range of views about housing and the RooPfs study modifications and the relationships among them were identified and described.Results: The data were derived from a total of 35 sets of observations and informal conversations in 10 villages, 12 discussions with the photovoice photographers, 26 focus group discussions (across 13 villages) and 391 completed questionnaires. The study participants described a ‘good house’ as one with a corrugate-metal roof, cement walls (preferably cement block, but mud block covered with cement plaster was also an acceptable and cheaper substitute) and well-fitting doors. These features align with local perceptions of a modern house that provides social status and protection from physical harms. The RooPfs modifications were largely appreciated, although poor workmanship caused concerns that houses had become insecure. However, the long-term trusting relationship with the implementing institution and the actions taken to rectify problems provided reassurance and enhanced acceptability.Conclusion: In developing housing to address population needs in Africa, attention should be paid to local perceptions of what is required to make a house secure for its inhabitants, as well as providing a healthy environment.
Efficacy and safety of total parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation vs. subtotal parathyroidectomy for secondary hyperparathyroidism: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhu Jiaqi , Wu Yan , Huang Ting , Jiang Guoqin , Yang Zhixue 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: No consensus has been reached on the best surgical approach for secondary hyperparathyroidism. We evaluated the short-term and long-term efficacy and safety of total parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation (TPTX+AT) and subtotal parathyroidectomy (SPTX).Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of 259 patients undergoing TPTX+AT or SPTX between 2010 and 2021 in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, and carried out follow-up. We compared the differences in symptoms, serological examinations, complications and mortalities between the two groups, and explored the risk factors of poor prognosis, death and recurrence.Results: Of the 259 patients, 208 underwent TPTX+AT and 51 underwent SPTX. The postoperative day 1 serum intact PTH level was higher in TPTX+AT group than that in SPTX group (P=.023). The risk of all-cause mortality in TPTX+AT group was lower (P =. 018), and recurrent PTX was more common in TPTX+AT group (P =. 011). The risk of recurrence was similar. There was no significant difference in the incidence of most complications including hematoma, recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, wound infection, adverse cardiovascular outcomes, fracture and permanent hypoparathyroidism between two groups. Results from Cox regression showed the SPTX operation approach (HR 3.53, P = 0.021) and older age (HR 1.06, P = 0.035) were risk factors of all-cause mortality.Conclusion: Due to the lower risk of death after TPTX+AT and the low renal transplantation rate, we prefer TPTX+AT to treat most Chinese population with secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Microbially/CO2-derived CaCO3 cement strengthens calcareous sands and its cementation mechanism
Authors: Yu Xiaoniu , Yang Haoqing , Zhan Qiwei 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
In this text, a method to use CO2 for the treatment of calcareous sand is presented. Carbon dioxide solidification-bacteria (Streptomyces microflavus) was obtained by screening and applied to the mechanical strengthening of calcareous sand through a microbial mineralization/carbonization process. Experiments in both liquid phase and sand were carried out. The optimal mass ratio of carbon dioxide solidification-bacteria to calcium oxide was found to be 2:1. The optimal dosage of bacterial powder was 30% of the total dry sand mass. Using the optimal recipe, the average uniaxial compressive strength of treated sand columns was 3.67 MPa and the average permeability coefficient was 4.90×10-3cm/s. Compared with the other microbial induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) approaches, the proposed method does not release harmful by-products such as ammonia. The chemical composition and microstructure of the treated calcareous sand were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The XRD results showed that the CO2 carbonized product contained mainly calcite.
Synthesis of Nanostructures of Iron Binary/Ternary Phased Sulfide/Selenide by Hot Injection Method and Case Study for The Removal of Carcinogenic Dye Red S3B Via Photocatalysis
Authors: Akram Rehana , Akhtar Javeed , Khan Humaira Rashid , Akhtar Masood , Malik Mohammad Azad , Revaprasadu Neerish , AlGhamdi Yousef , Bhatti Moazzam H. 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Iron based nanoplates of iron sulfide (FeS2), iron selenide (FeSe2) and iron sulfo selenide (FeSxSe1−x) have been synthesised in one pot by using Fe(III) or Fe(II) chloride as iron source and sulfur or selenium powder as S and Se source in oleylamine. These synthesised nanoplates were characterized by x-rays diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), High resolution transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersion x-rays (EDX) spectroscopy. These materials were also investigated for their performance as photocatalysts for the degradation of a carcinogenic industrial dye RS3B under solar light. The comparison of crystallinity, dimensions, yields and electronic properties of these synthesised nanoplates with respect to the use of Fe (II) or Fe (III) as iron source and also the synthesis carried out at 30 minutes and one hour show that Fe (II) is better source for iron and the synthesis carried out at 30 minutes give much better quality materials that those synthesized for one hour. This observation was true for all three materials (FeS2, FeSe2 and FeSSe).
Value Of Lymphadenectomy In Patients With Surgically Resected Grade 1 Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Wang Fei , Li Zheng , Ye Zeng , Zhuo Qifeng , Xu Wenyan , Liu Wensheng , Liu Mengqi , Fan Guixiong , Qin Yi , Zhang Yue , Chen Xuemin , Yu Xianjun , Xu Xiaowu , Ji Shunrong 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Although some factors that predict the prognosis in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (pNET) have been confirmed, the predictive value of lymph node metastasis (LNM) in the prognosis of pNETs remains conflicting and it is not clear whether regional lymphadenectomy should be performed in all grades of tumors.Methods: We included pNET patients undergoing surgery in Shanghai pancreatic cancer institute (SHPCI). The risk factors for survival were investigated by the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression model. We evaluated the predictors of LNM using Logistic regression.Results: For 206 patients in the SHPCI series, LNM was an independent prognostic factor for entire cohort suggested by multivariate Cox regression analysis. LNM (P = 0.002) predicted poorer overall survival (OS) in grade 2/3 cohort, but there is no significant association between LNM and OS in grade 1 cohort. Grade (P < 0.001) and size (P = 0.049) predicted LNM in entire cohort. Grade (P = 0.002) predicted LNM while regardless of size in grade 2/3 cohort. Conclusions: In grade1 tumors, LNM is not a predictor of OS, and lymphadenectomy is not recommended for these patients. In grade 2/3 tumors, LNM predict worse OS, and lymphadenectomy may bring survival benefit for these cases. Our findings indicated that lymphadenectomy should be performed in cases with grade 2/3 tumors but was not obligatory in cases with grade 1 tumors and it is reasonable to perform functional sparing surgery in patients with grade 1 tumors.
Sudden Isolated Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma Transformation in Splenic Marginal Zone Lymphoma after Complete Remission
Authors: Chen Mingfeng , Xu Jing , Ye Wencan , Li Zhenjiang , Song Yuan , Tang Aiping 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Splenic marginal zone lymphoma(SMZL) is an indolent small B cell lymphoma, the clinical course is generally slow and mild; however, a small proportion of patients can transform to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).Case presentation: We report the case of a 61-year-old male patient with the diagnosis of SMZL stage IV A (Ann Arbor classification), who experienced recurrence twice during the disease course and resulted in complete remission(CR) after therapy. But nevertheless, it transformed to DLBCL with isolated abdominal mass, while the bone marrow sample revealed no neoplastic involvement in the third month after the second CR. At the first diagnosis, the patient was treated with the CHOP regimen (cyclophosphamide, vinorelbine, pirarubicin, and dexamethasone). After recurrence, he was given four cycles of rituximab in combination with CHOP regimen (R-CHOP) and achieved CR; however, isolated extranodal abdominal DLBCL transformation occurred within three months of CR. The patient underwent an additional cycle of R-CHOP chemoimmunotherapy and the second-line R-DHAP (rituximab, cisplatin, cytarabine, and dexamethasone) chemoimmunotherapy. Finally, he died of upper gastrointestinal bleeding and shock. The next-generation sequencing results from bone marrow at first diagnosis and abdominal mass tissue showed common gene mutations in both tumors, suggesting that they were clonally related.Conclusions: We, therefore, hypothesized that SMZL had progressed to DLBCL rather than developed a second neoplasm during the disease course. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of SMZL transformed to DLBCL with the abdominal mass after CR. Although its a chronic course, histologic transformation of SMZL can occur at any stage.
Community perceptions of coral reef conservation in a rural fishing village in North Bali, Indonesia.
Authors: Boakes Zach , Mahyuni Luh Putu , Stafford Richard , Cvitanovic Marin 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Aside from their associated direct ecological advantages, coral reef conservation programs may also generate benefits to local communities. These communities may choose to support marine conservation programs based on multiple factors, and an increased involvement of local people often leads to positive changes in environmental behaviours. This study collected qualitative data using semi-structured interviews and multi-stakeholder focus groups on a rural fisher community in Tianyar Village, North Bali, Indonesia, where the ‘North Bali Reef Conservation’ (locally known as ‘Yowana Bhakti Segara’) coral reef conservation program was based. Results showed that generally, the community of Tianyar village was in support of the existing coral reef conservation programs, mostly due to the perceived economic prospects associated with being involved in the conservation work. Overall, the community agreed that the coral reef conservation program has led to societal and environmental benefits, which has generated positive environmental behaviours and a change in mindsets since it was established in 2017 (4 years before this study was undertaken). Based on the answers of interviewees, this study makes recommendations on how coral reef conservation in Bali (and other similar less developed nations) can increase community support, socio-economic benefits and positive environmental behaviours. These include (1) continuing environmental education for within the community, (2) strengthening regulations and improving enforcement, (3) increasing financial and logistical support for waste management and ecotourism, (4) continuing building and deploying artificial reefs, ensuring that ‘best practice’ recommendations are followed, and (5) utilising the influence of local leaders to create positive environmental behaviours.
Greater Body Fatness is Associated with Higher Protein Expression of LEPR in Breast Tumor Tissues: Cross-Sectional Analysis in the Women’s Circle of Health Study
Authors: Llanos Adana A.M. , Aremu John B. , Cheng Ting-Yuan David , Chen Wenjin , Chekmareva Marina A. , Feliciano Elizabeth M. Cespedes , Qin Bo , Lin Yong , Omene Coral , Khoury Thaer , Hong Chi-Chen , Yao Song , Ambrosone Christine B. , Bandera Elisa V. , Demissie Kitaw 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background
The molecular mechanisms underlying the association of overall and central body fatness with poorer breast cancer outcomes remain unclear; altered gene and/or protein expression of the adipokines and their respective receptors in the breast tumor microenvironment may play a role.
Methods
In a sample of Black and White women with primary invasive breast cancer, we investigated associations of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, hip circumference, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), fat mass index, and percent body fat with protein expression (log-transformed, n = 722) and gene expression (log2-transformed, n = 148) of leptin receptor (LEPR) and adiponectin receptors 1 and 2 (ADIPOR1, ADIPOR2). Multivariable linear models, adjusting for race, menopausal status, and estrogen receptor status, were used to assess these associations, with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons.
Results
In multivariable models, we found that increasing BMI (β = 0.0028, 95% CI: 0.0011, 0.0045), waist circumference (β = 0.0013, 95% CI: 0.0005, 0.0022), hip circumference (β = 0.0015, 95% CI: 0.0007, 0.0024), and fat mass index (β = 0.0041, 95% CI: 0.0015, 0.0067) were associated with higher LEPR protein expression. These findings reflect a 16.8%, 17.6%, 17.7%, 17.2% increase in LEPR protein expression for each standard deviation increase in BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, and fat mass index, respectively. These associations were stronger among White and postmenopausal women and ER + cases; formal tests of interaction yielded evidence of effect modification by race. We found no associations of any measure of body fatness with LEPR gene expression or with gene or protein expression of ADIPOR1 and ADIPOR2.
Conclusions
These findings support an association of increased body fatness – beyond overall body size measured using BMI – with higher LEPR protein expression in breast tumor tissues. Clarifying the impact of adiposity-related adipokine receptor expression in breast tumors on long-term breast cancer outcomes is a critical next step.
Hyponatremia and hypophysitis induced by ipilimumab and nivolumab in patients with lung squamous cell carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Hou Lingjie , Zhang Hong , Shao Yanan , Zhou Yang , Zhang Hongquan , Wang Meng 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed the prognosis of patients with advanced lung squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). As the use of checkpoint inhibitors increases in a variety of malignancies, immune-related adverse effects will become more common.Case report: Here, we present a case of a 64-year-old man with advanced stage lung SCC who developed hyponatremia and hypophysitis after treatment with ipilimumab and nivolumab. The patient underwent effective treatment with steroids, hyperosmolar therapy, and fluid restriction.Conclusion: This case highlights the potentially life-threatening complications of ICIs, and it shows that early recognition and complete evaluation are critical in clinical practice.
Case Report: Extensive Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Secondary To Surgical Resection In Castleman Disease
Authors: Hao Yuehan , Li Lei , Jin Feng , Zhang Jian , Wang Yanzhe , He Zhiyi 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background: Castleman disease (CD) is a rare lymphoproliferative disease with main clinical manifestation of painless lymphadenopathy. The pathogenesis is not clear. There was a few correlation between CD and nervous system diseases. So far, extensive subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) secondary to surgical resection in CD has not been reported.Case presentation: We presented a 24-year-old woman who suffered from anemia 3 years ago, and failed to find the cause of anemia with repeated bone punctures. The anemia was corrected after surgical resection of abdominal mass, the pathological diagnosis of which was consistent with the plasma cell type of CD. However, the patient had a severe headache on the fourth day after operation, and cranial computed tomography (CT) showed extensive subarachnoid hemorrhage, while CT angiography (CTA) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) were normal. After three weeks treatment, hemorrhage in brain was absorbed completely. She recovered and had no recurrence during our 4-year follow-up.Conclusions: Extensive SAH could occur in CD after surgical resection. The methods of intervening the rapidly increased number of intravascular red blood cells after surgical excision might reduce the occurrence of SAH in CD.