bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantum Transport in A Single Molecular Transistor at Finite Temperature
Authors: Kalla Manasa , Chebrolu Narasimha Raju , Chatterjee Ashok
Published: December 2020

We study quantum transport in a single molecular transistor in which the central region consists of a single-level quantum dot and is connected to two metallic leads that act as a source and a drain respectively. The quantum dot is considered to be under the influence of electron-electron and electron-phonon interactions. The central region is placed on an insulating substrate that acts as a heat reservoir that interacts with the quantum dot phonon giving rise to a damping effect to the quantum dot. The electron-phonon interaction is decoupled by applying a canonical transformation and then the spectral density of the quantum dot is calculated from the resultant Hamiltonian by using Keldysh Green function technique. We also calculate the tunneling current density and differential conductance to study the effect of quantum dissipation, electron correlation and the lattice effects on quantum transport in a single molecular transistor at finite temperature.
A Markov Random Field Model for Network-based Differential Expression Analysis of Single-cell RNA-seq Data
Authors: Li Hongyu , Xu Zhichao , Adams Taylor , Kaminski Naftali , Zhao Hongyu
Published: December 2020

Background: Recent development of single cell sequencing technologies has made it possible to identify genes with different expression (DE) levels at the cell type level between different groups of samples. However, the often-low sample size of single cell data limits the statistical power to identify DE genes. In this article, we propose to borrow information through known biological networks. Results: We develop MRFscRNAseq, which is based on a Markov Random Field (MRF) model to appropriately accommodate gene network information as well as dependencies among cell types to identify cell-type specific DE genes. We implement an Expectation-Maximization (EM) algorithm with mean field-like approximation to estimate model parameters and a Gibbs sampler to infer DE status. Simulation study shows that our method has better power to detect cell-type specific DE genes than conventional methods while appropriately controlling type I error rate. The usefulness of our method is demonstrated through its application to study the pathogenesis and biological processes of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) using a single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data set, which contains 18,150 protein-coding genes across 38 cell types on lung tissues from 32 IPF patients and 28 normal controls.Conclusions: The proposed MRF model is implemented in the R package MRFscRNAseq available on GitHub. By utilizing gene-gene and cell-cell networks, our method provides differential expression analysis for scRNA-seq data with increased statistical power.
Analysis of Tuberculosis Cases Notification and Treatment Outcomes Among Refugee Camps In Kenya: Four Year Retrospective Study, 2014-2017
Authors: Legesse Tsegay , Mulesh Stephen , Anjuri Dorothy , Ngure Miriam , Chiari Salad , Chepkwong Fredrick , Okemwa Job , Diney Adbirushid , Frah Abdillah , Alwan Fathia , Kassa Desta
Published: December 2020

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is more severe in refugee populations. Analyzing the key indicators of TB program performance is important to improve the effectiveness of TB control in the refugee camps. This study aimed to analyze trends in TB case notification, treatment outcomes and factors associated with unsuccessful TB treatment in Dadaab and Kakuma refugee camps in Kenya. Methods: In this descriptive retrospective study, demographic and clinical data all TB cases registered in the refugee camps from January 2014 to December 2017 were extracted. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for variables associated with unsuccessful TB treatment.Results. A total of 2055 TB cases of whom 56.8% men and 57.7% age 15-44 years were registered. Number of notified cases decreased from 532 in 2014 to 473 in 2016 (11.1% decrease) then increased to 554 in 2017(16.9% increase in one year). From 2014 to 2017 there was consistent increase in percentage of EPTB (16.2% to 21.1%), and in contribution of children (<15 years) to total TB cases (20.3% to 25.8%) and to EPTB (36.1% to 44.4%). Proportion of bacteriologically confirmed new and relapse pulmonary cases increased from 49.5% to 60.9%. Treatment success rate remained higher at 92.6% to 94.4%. On average 41.7% were cured, 2.3% lost to follow-up (LTFU) (increasing from 1.3% to 3.2%), 2.2% died (decreasing from 2.4% to 1.6%), 1.6% not evaluated (decreasing from 3.2% to 1.3%), and 0.5% treatment failed. Unsuccessful treatment outcome was significantly associated with pretreatment weight < 40 Kg, being male, smear positive PTB, HIV infection, and age >15 years (increased with age).Conclusions: Number of notified TB cases has decreased from 2014 to 2016, but increased in 2017. There was continuous increase in percentage of EPTB and childhood TB. Proportion of bacteriologically confirmed new and relapse pulmonary cases has increased overtime. Treatment success remained higher above global target (90%) which should be maintained. Special socioeconomic support and follow-up is required for TB patients who are at higher risk of unsuccessful treatment.
Population Attributable Fractions of Caffeine and Water Pipe on Low Birth Weight: A Population-Based Prospective Cohort Study in Iran
Authors: Nematollahi Shahrzad , Mansournia Mohammad Ali , Rahimi-Foroushani Abbas , Mouseli Ali , Shabkhiz Hossein , Holakouie-Naieni Koroush
Published: December 2020

BackgroundTo estimate Population Attributable Fractions (PAFs) and Generalized Impact Fractions (GIFs) for LBW following scenarios to remove or decrease prenatal use of caffeine or water pipe.Methods‎Using data of 861 pregnant women from a population-based prospective cohort study ‎in suburbs of Bandar Abbas city (2016-2018), PAFs and GIFs were calculated based on the relative risk scale. Practical interventional scenarios to reduce the exposure prevalence were developed for calculation of GIFs. ResultsThe cumulative incidence of LBW was 16.1%. An estimated 19% (95%CI: 6, 30%) of LBW neonates was attributed to dietary caffeine intake of >100 mg/day and 11% (95%CI: 8,14%) to water pipe smoking. Action plans to reduce caffeine intake and water pipe smoking suggested an avoidable burden of LBW cases of approximately 10.7% (95% CI: 6.6, 25.3%) and 5.7% ‎‎(95%CI: ‎5.0, 6.8%), respectively.‎ConclusionsWater pipe smoking and excessive consumption of caffeine during pregnancy decreased birth weight. Practical action plans to control water pipe smoking ‎and to prevent excessive intake of ‎caffeine ‎among pregnant women would substantially reduce LBW burden in the south of Iran. ‎
Aberrant Expression of SCARA5 in Lung Adenocarcinoma and its Clinical Significance
Authors: Yu Genhua , Gong Xufeng , Fu Aixia , Hou Yan , Xia Jingping , Wang Ning , Zhao Wei , Hu Haili , Ouyang Jingjing , Fei Lei , Wei Qichun
Published: December 2020

BackgroundLung adenocarcinoma, the main subtype of non-small cell lung cancer, leading one of the most aggressive and fatal causes of malignant deaths around the world. Scavenger receptor class A member 5 (SCARA5), a newly discovered tumor suppressor gene, belonged to the SR family. The present study’s object was to explore the clinical impacts of SCARA5 in lung adenocarcinoma treatment. MethodsSCARA5 expressions in 120 paired lung adenocarcinoma patients’ tissues and cell lines were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). CCK-8, EdU, flow cytometry, and western blot assays further demonstrated the significance of SCARA5 on A549 cell growth. Then, the relationships between the expression level of SCARA5 and pathological factors were analyzed. Finally, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and overall survival analysis was carried out to verify the diagnostic and prognostic significance of SCARA5 in lung adenocarcinoma. ResultsSCARA5 was prominently decreased in lung adenocarcinoma cells and tissues compared with human bronchial epithelial cells and para-carcinoma non-tumor tissues. Meanwhile, SCARA5 expression was strongly correlated with smoking (P = 0.0011), TNM stage (P < 0.0001) and lymph node metastasis (P = 0.0005). Furthermore, SCARA5 may be a crucial biomarker for lung adenocarcinoma diagnosis with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.9102 while SCARA5 could significantly reduce overall survival (OS; P = 0.0006). In vitro experiments, we found that SCARA5 overexpressing could significantly hinder A549 cell proliferation but facilitate apoptosis through the AKT signaling pathway. Conclusions﻿SCARA5 might be an important diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for patients with lung adenocarcinoma.
Ag2O/GO/TiO2 Composite Nanostructure: An Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for one Pot Synthesis of Bis (Dihydropyrimidinone) and Tetrahydro-4H-chromenes Derivatives
Authors: Zadeh Fatemeh Samandi , Mohammadi Mohammad Kazem , Rayatzadeh Ayeh , Hasanzadeh Neda
Published: December 2020

The simple and efficient synthesis reaction was used for preparing Bis (dihydropyrimidinone) derivatives through Biginelli condensation reaction of terephthalic aldehyde, 1, 3-dicarbonyl compounds and (thio) urea or guanidine and tetrahydro-4H-chromenes via one pot condensation of aromatic aldehydes, malononitrile and dimedone with Ag2O/GO/TiO2 composite nanostructures as a catalyst. The structural functionalities and morphological observations of catalyst were obtained using characterization techniques of field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transfer infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The structures of Bis (dihydropyrimidinone) and tetrahydro-4H-chromenes confirmed by FT- IR, NMR and mass spectroscopy. Excellent yields of the products, simple reaction process and simple work-up are attractive features of these effective synthesis methods.
The First Data on the Fauna and Geographical Distribution of Medically Important Scorpions in Golestan Province, Northeast of Iran
Authors: Sofizadeh Aioub , Kalteh Ehsan Allah , Saeedi Shahin , Bavani Mulood Mohammmadi
Published: December 2020

Objectives: this study was conducted to determine the medically relevant scorpion’s species and produce their geographical distribution in Golestan Province for the first time, to collect basic information to produce regional antivenom. Because for scorpion treatment a polyvalent antivenom is use in Iran, and some time it failed to treatment, for solve this problem govement decide to produce regional antivenom.Scorpions were captured at day and night time using ruck rolling and Ultra Violet methods during 2019. Then specimens transferred to a 75% alcohol-containing plastic bottle. Finally the specimens under a stereomicroscope using a valid identification key were identified. Distribution maps were introduced using GIS 10.4.Results: A total of 111 scorpion samples were captured from the province, all belonging to the Buthidae family, including Mesobuthus eupeus (97.3%), Orthochirus farzanpayi (0.9%) and Mesobuthus caucasicus (1.8%) species. M. eupeus has the highest distribution and abundance in the region and is introduced as the leading cause of scorpion sting in the region. This species was captured from all-mountainous, forest and lowland areas. O. farzanpayi and M. caucasicus species are new for the scorpion fauna of golestan province.Mesobuthus eupeus is the most prevalence species in Golestan province and regarded as the most medically important scorpion species in this region.
Serum Vitamin D Components and Whole Blood Trace Elements Storage in Chinese Short Stature Children
Authors: Xu Bei , Feng Yue , Gan Lingling , Zhang Yamei , Jiang Wenqiang , Feng Jiafu , Yu Lin
Published: December 2020

Background: Literature data on nutritional status in short stature children are unfortunately still scarce. The aim of the study was to compare the serum levels of 25(OH)D2, 25(OH)D3, total 25(OH)D and whole blood trace elements between short stature and healthy controls in Chinese children.Methods: A case-control study including 370 short stature (SS) children and 398 healthy controls (HC) was performed in Mianyang Central Hospital from January 2017 to June 2020. Serum 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3 were accurately measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and were summed to obtain total 25(OH)D. Whole blood concentrations of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se) and lead (Pb) were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method. Results: 25(OH)D2 and total 25(OH)D levels in the SS group were significantly lower than the HC subjects (both P<0.05). Besides, both 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3 were positively correlated with total 25(OH)D in the SS and HC groups. 25(OH)D2 levels had weakly negative association with 25(OH)D3 among healthy subjects, whereas no correlation between 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3 levels was found in short stature group. Otherwise, a significant elevation was observed in Zn (P<0.001), Fe (P<0.001), and Se (P=0.027) in SS patients, while a statistically significant decrease in Cu (P=0.002) and Mn (P<0.001) was found. Additionally, the significant correlation of serum levels of 25(OH)D2, 25(OH)D3, total 25(OH)D and trace elements were observed between SS and HC group.Conclusion: SS children had more severe deficiency of 25(OH)D2 and total 25(OH)D than healthy subjects. In addition, deficiency of Cu and Mn, but elevation of Zn, Fe and Se were observed. Achieved information about vitamin D and trace element status in SS subjects could further improve the nutritional status of these patient groups.
Intestinal Microbiota Shapes Gut Physiology and Regulates Enteric Neurons and Glia
Authors: Vicentini Fernando , Keenan Catherine , Wallace Laurie , Woods Crystal , Cavin Jean-Baptiste , Flockton Amanda , Macklin Wendy , Belkind-Gerson Jaime , Hirota Simon , Sharkey Keith
Published: December 2020

Background: The intestinal microbiota plays an important role in regulating gastrointestinal (GI) physiology in part through interactions with the enteric nervous system (ENS). Alterations in the gut microbiome frequently occur together with disturbances in enteric neural control in pathophysiological conditions. However, the mechanisms by which the microbiota regulates GI function and the structure of the ENS are incompletely understood. Using a mouse model of antibiotic (Abx)-induced bacterial depletion, we sought to determine the molecular mechanisms of microbial regulation of intestinal function and the integrity of the ENS. Spontaneous reconstitution of the Abx-depleted microbiota was used to assess the plasticity of structure and function of the GI tract and neuronal survival and neurogenesis in the ENS. Results: Adult male and female Abx-treated mice exhibited alterations in GI structure and function, including a longer small intestine, slower transit time, increased carbachol-stimulated ion transport and increased intestinal permeability. These alterations were accompanied by the loss of enteric neurons in the ileum and proximal colon in both submucosal and myenteric plexuses. A reduction in the number of enteric glia were only observed in the ileal myenteric plexus. Recovery of the microbiota restored intestinal function and stimulated enteric neurogenesis leading to increases in the number of enteric glia and neurons. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) supplementation enhanced neuronal survival alongside bacterial depletion but had no effect on neuronal recovery once the Abx-induced neuronal loss was established. In contrast, SCFA were able to restore neuronal numbers after Abx-induced neuronal loss, demonstrating that SCFA stimulate enteric neurogenesis in vivo. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate a role for the gut microbiota in regulating the structure function of the GI tract in a sex-independent manner. Moreover, the microbiota is essential for the maintenance of ENS integrity, by regulating enteric neuronal survival and promoting neurogenesis. Molecular determinants of the microbiota, LPS and SCFA, regulate enteric neuronal survival, while SCFA also stimulates neurogenesis. Our data reveal new insights into the role of the gut microbiota that could lead to therapeutic developments for the treatment of enteric neuropathies.
Predicting Surgical Resource Consumption and in-Hospital Mortality in Resource-Scarce Conflict Settings: A Retrospective Database Study
Authors: Muhrbeck Måns , Osman Zaher , Schreeb Johan Von , Wladis Andreas , Andersson Peter
Published: December 2020

Background: In armed conflicts, civilian health care struggles to cope. Being able to predict what resources are needed is therefore vital. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) implemented in the 1990s the Red Cross Wound Score (RCWS) for assessment of penetrating injuries. It is unknown to what extent RCWS or the established trauma scores Kampala trauma Score (KTS) and revised trauma score (RTS) can be used to predict surgical resource consumption and in-hospital mortality. Methods: A retrospective study of routinely collected data on weapon-injured adults admitted to ICRC’s hospitals in Peshawar, 2009–2012 and Goma, 2012–2014. High resource consumption was defined as ≥3 surgical procedures, ≥3 blood-transfusions and/or amputation. The relationship between RCWS, KTS, RTS and resource consumption, in-hospital mortality was evaluated with logistic regression and adjusted receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC). The impact of missing data was assessed with imputation. Model fit was compared with Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). Results: A total of 1564 patients were included, of these 834 patients had complete data. For high resource consumption AUC was significantly higher for RCWS (0.76) than for KTS (0.53) and RTS (0.51). Additionally, RCWS had lower AIC, indicating a better model fit. For in-hospital mortality AUC was significantly higher for RCWS (0.79) than for KTS (0.71) and RTS (0.70) for all patients, but not for patients with complete data. Conclusion: RCWS appears to predict surgical resource consumption better than KTS and RTS. RCWS may be a promising tool for planning and monitoring surgical care in resource-scarce conflict settings.
TRAIL Promotes Epithelial-to-mesenchymal Transition by Inducing PD-L1 Expression in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Zhang Huanyu , Qin Guohui , Yang Huiyun , Liu Jinyan , Wu Peng , Hu Hongwei , Liu Shasha , Yang Li , Zhang Yi
Published: December 2020

Background: Tumor necrosis factor-associated apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) was initially considered an immunity guard; however, its function remains controversial. Besides immune cells, lung and colon cancer cells have also been reported to express TRAIL, which can promote tumor invasion and metastasis. However, the biological function and underlying mechanism of action of TRAIL in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remain poorly elucidated.Methods: The ESCC cells stemness, migration, and proliferation ability was assessed by sphere formation, Transwell, and CCK8 assay. The stemness- and EMT- related genes expression levels were analyzed by Western blot and RT-qPCR. The signal activation was conducted by Western blot. The PDX Model were performed to confirm our findings in vitro.Results: Herein, we found that TRAIL is a negative predictor in patients with ESCC. To further investigate the biological function of TRAIL, we established TRAIL knockdown and overexpression ESCC cell lines and found that TRAIL induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and promoted tumor aggressiveness. Furthermore, we demonstrated that TRAIL- overexpressing cells upregulated PD-L1 expression, which was dependent on the p-ERK/STAT3 signaling pathway. We obtained similar results when using recombinant human TRAIL. Finally, we validated the biological role and mechanism of action of TRAIL in vivo.Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that TRAIL promotes ESCC progression by enhancing PD-L1 expression, which induces EMT. This may explain the failure of TRAIL preclinical trials.Financial support: This work was supported by the National Key Research and Development (2018YFC1313400), the National Nature Science Foundation of China (U1804281, 91942314) and the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars (82001659).
Novel Prognostic Role of Serum CA19-9 Identified in Colorectal Terminal Tumor Site and Tubular Adenocarcinoma 
Authors: He Zhicheng , Hu Shudong , Chen Jijun , Cai Xianghai , He Yingying , LIU SHUBAI
Published: December 2020

Background: It is still illusive that the origination and contribution of different primary tumor sites in Colorectal Cancer (CRC). Methods: A total 1039 consecutive CRC patient’s profiles were collected to discover the prediction role of multiple biomarkers in this cohort study. Multiple serum biomarkers were tested and tracked during survival period. The correlation and survival analysis were applied to explore the prognostic value of clinical traits (primary tumor sites, and tumor subtypes, the incidence rate) and multiple biomarkers for forecasting patient’s overall clinical.Results: The sigmoid and rectum (73%) demonstrated the highest incidence rate among primary tumor sites (27%). Tubular adenocarcinoma, mainly rise from the terminal bowel tumor sites, has significantly worse clinical outcome, lower 5-year survival rate and shorter overall survival time. Serum level of CA19-9 was significantly positive correlated with sigmoid and rectum originated-CRC (Cor =0.88, p=2.2e-16). Higher serum level of CA19-9 (>37 U/mL) was significantly associated with terminal tumor sites, tubular adenocarcinoma and tumor with non-infiltrating. It could be applied for the precise diagnosis of CRC and terminal bowel cancer, especially in the tubular adenocarcinoma. Results: The sigmoid and rectum (73%) demonstrated the highest incidence rate among primary tumor sites (27%). Tubular adenocarcinoma, mainly rise from the terminal bowel tumor sites, has significantly worse clinical outcome, lower 5-year survival rate and shorter overall survival time. Serum level of CA19-9 was significantly positive correlated with sigmoid and rectum originated-CRC (Cor =0.88, p=2.2e-16). Higher serum level of CA19-9 (>37 U/mL) was significantly associated with terminal tumor sites, tubular adenocarcinoma and tumor with non-infiltrating. It could be applied for the precise diagnosis of CRC and terminal bowel cancer, especially in the tubular adenocarcinoma. Conclusions: Therefore, terminal tumor sites (sigmoid and rectum) demonstrated potential prognostic value in early screening for CRC patients. CA19-9 could be a promising biomarker for the diagnosis of terminal colorectal cancer, especially for the Tubular adenocarcinomas originated from sigmoid and rectum, and improve the clinical outcome.
Subjective Well-being in Italian Regions: A Panel Data Approach
Authors: Magazzino Cosimo , Leogrande Angelo
Published: December 2020

We use data from the new ISTAT-BES database to estimate the socio-economic determinants of subjective well-being in Italian regions between 2004 and 2016. Empirical findings show that subjective well-being is positively associated with education, income and social relations. Our findings imply that governments should improve subjective well-being increasing the level of investment in education, deepening economic growth, reducing income inequality and promoting social relations.
Cassava Mosaic Virus Disease in Ghana: Distribution and Spread
Authors: Oppong Allen , Prempeh Ruth Naa A. , Abrokwah Linda Appianimaa , Annang Esther Afoley , Marfo Esther Agyeman , Kubi Zipporah Appiah , Danquah Nana A. O. , Agyekum Augustine , Frimpong Benedicta Nsiah , Lamptey Joseph N.L. , Mochiah Moses Brandford , Pita Justin S.
Published: December 2020

Background: Cassava is an important staple crop in most of the tropics including Ghana. The productivity of the crop is beset with pest and disease attacks. With the emergence of virulent strains of the cassava mosaic virus (CMV), regular surveys are necessary to ascertain the prevalence of CMV and their whitefly vectors in farmers’ fields to help manage CMV disease affecting the crop. Methods: Field surveys were conducted in September and October of 2015 and December 2016 to January 2017 using a harmonized sampling protocol developed by the West African Virus Epidemiology (WAVE) for root and tuber project. Three hundred and ninety-three fields were visited throughout Ghana and 11,760 cassava leaf samples examined. Whiteflies were counted on 5 plants/field. Diseased samples with varying symptoms collected were assayed using PCR and genomic sequencing. Results: Cassava mosaic disease (CMD) symptoms were recorded in about ninety-six percent (96.4%) of fields surveyed with varying severity. These symptoms included leaf mosaic, leaf distortion/twisting, malformation, filiform leaves, stunting and chlorosis. Cultivars with red petiole colour were the most prevalent while those with green petiole colour were the least. No whitefly was found on cultivars with purple and Green petioles while cultivars with reddish-green petioles had highest count of whiteflies/plant. The Upper West and Upper East regions had the least number of whiteflies/plant. Six CMV strains were detected: ACMV-Ivory Coast, ACMV-Kenya, EACMV-Cameroun, ACMV-Ghana, EACM-Cameroun virus-Ghana and EACMV-Kenya. Conclusion: ACMV-Kenya and EACMV-Kenya are being reported for the first time. This indicates that more CMV strains are being detected in the country.
Combination Therapy of Zinc and Trimethoprim Inhibits Influenza A Virus in Chick Embryo  
Authors: Habbal Magdi El , Habbal Magdi H EL
Published: December 2020

Background. Respiratory RNA viruses including influenza virus have been a cause of health and economic hardships. These viruses depend on its host for replication and infection. Influenza virus infection is lethal to the chick embryo. We examined whether a combination of trimethoprim and zinc (Tri-Z), that acts on the host, can reduce the lethal effect of influenza A virus in chick embryo model. Method. Influenza virus was isolated from patients and propagated in eggs. We determined viral load that infects 50% of eggs (50% egg lethal dose, ELD50). We introduced 10 ELD50 into embryonated eggs and repeated the experiments using 100 ELD50. A mixture of zinc oxide (Zn) and trimethoprim (TMP) (weight / weight ratios ranged from 0.01 to 0.3, Zn/TMP with increment of 0.1) was tested for embryo survival of the infection (n = 12 per ratio, in triplicates). Embryo survival was determined by candling eggs daily for 7 days. Controls of Zn, TMP, saline or convalescent serum were conducted in parallel. The effect of Tri-Z on virus binding to its cell surface receptor was evaluated in a hemagglutination inhibition (HAI) assay using chicken red cells. HAI effect was expressed as scores where ++++ = no effect; 0 = complete HAI effect.Results. TMP, Zn or saline separately had no effect on embryo survival, none of the embryos survived influenza virus infection. All embryos treated with convalescent serum survived. Tri-Z, at ratio range of 0.15 to 0.2 (optimal ratio of 0.18) Zn / TMP, enabled embryos to survive influenza virus despite increasing viral load (>80% survival at optimal ratio). At concentration of 15 microgram/ml of optimal ratio, Tri-Z had total HAI effect (scored 0). However, at clinical concentration of 5 microgram/ml, Tri-Z had partial HAI effect (++).Conclusion. Acting on host cells, Tri-Z at optimal ratio can reduce the lethal effect of influenza A virus in chick embryo. Tri-Z has HAI effect. These findings suggest that combination of trimethoprim and zinc at optimal ratio can be provided as treatment for influenza and possibly other respiratory RNA viruses infection in man.
Optimal Combinations of Biomarkers to Determine AT(N) in the Alzheimer’s Disease 
Authors: Lin Rong-Rong , Xue Yan-Yan , Li Xiao-Yan , Chen Yi-He , Tao Qing-Qing , Wu Zhi-Ying
Published: December 2020

Background: National Institute on Aging—Alzheimer’s Association (NIA-AA) proposed the AT(N) system based on β-amyloid deposition, pathologic tau, and neurodegeneration, which considered the definition of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as a biological construct. However, the associations between different AT(N) combinations and clinical stage and progression have been poorly explored systematically. The aim of this study is to compare different AT(N) combinations using recognized biomarkers within the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) cohort.Methods: A total of 341 participants from ADNI cohort were classified into AT(N) groups, including 200 cognitively unimpaired (CU) participants and 141 cognitively impaired (CI) participants (101 mild cognitive impairment [MCI] and 40 Alzheimer’s disease [AD]). CSF Aβ42 and amyloid-PET ([18F]flutemetamol) were used as biomarkers for A; CSF phosphorylated tau (p-tau) and tau-PET ([18F]flortaucipir) were used as biomarkers for T; CSF total tau (t-tau), FDG-PET, hippocampal volume, temporal cortical thickness and plasma neurofilament light (NfL) were used as biomarkers for (N). Binarization of biomarkers was acquired from Youden index and public cutoffs. The relationship between different AT(N) biomarkers combinations and cognitive changes (longitudinal Mini-Mental State Examination scores and Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes) was examined using linear mixed modeling and coefficient of variation.Results: Among CU participants, A−T−(N)− variants were most common. More T+ cases were shown using p-tau than tau PET, and more N+ cases were shown using fluid biomarkers than neuroimaging. Among CI participants, A+T+(N)+ was more common. Tau PET combined with cortical thickness best predicted longitudinal cognitive decline in CI and MRI measurements in CU participants. Conclusion: These findings suggest that optimal combinations of biomarkers to determine AT(N) are differed by clinical stage. Different biomarkers within a specific component for defining AT(N) cannot be used identically. Furthermore, different strategies for discontinuous biomarkers will be an important area for the future studies.
Hemorrhage Risk of Patients Receiving Bronchoscope Examination or Treatment
Authors: Bo Liyan , Li Yanyan , Jin Faguang , Li Congcong
Published: December 2020

Background: The type of procedures has changed and become more complex and sophisticated with the development and extensive use of bronchoscopy. This study aimed to evaluate the safety, particularly the hemorrhage risk, of patients receiving bronchoscope examination or treatment.Methods: The general information and bronchoscope procedures of patients who underwent bronchoscope examination or treatment in the respiration department were collected and analyzed.Results: The incidence of complications and the mortality in bronchoscopy were 0.85% and 0.01%, respectively. The complication rate of different types of bronchoscope procedure varies significantly, and that of therapeutic bronchoscopies was higher than that of explorative examinations and biopsies. Moreover, the most common complication was severe bleeding. Bleeding rate was higher in the left upper lobe and bronchus intermedius, and a trend was observed in which the proportion of bleeding cases decreased as the number of biopsies increased.Conclusions: Although bronchoscope procedure has become more complex and sophisticated, bronchoscopy is well tolerated. However, precautions should be taken because the risks of hemorrhage and pneumothorax were high and fatal.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Among a Cohort of Post-Partum Sri Lankan women: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Gankanda Wedisha Imal , Gunathilake I.A.G.M.P , Kahawala N.L. , Ranaweera A.K.P.
Published: December 2020

BackgroundPost-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) usually follows a catastrophic event. However, the experience of child birth can be severe enough to cause PTSD in some women.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in field clinics of a semi-urban area. A pre-tested interviewer administered checklist was used to collect socio-demographic and pregnancy related data. Pre-existing self-administered, validated Sinhalese versions of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and PTSD Symptom Scale-Self Report (PSS-SR) were used to assess the presence of Post-Partum Depression (PPD) and PTSD, respectively. Each participant was assessed at one, two and six months after the delivery for PTSD and PPD. Scores of PPD >9 and PSS-SR >13 were taken as positive for the two conditions, respectively. ResultsData was obtained from 225 women who were at their first month postpartum, for the initial study. The response rate at their follow-up visits at the second and sixth months were 95% (n=214) and 94% (n=211). The point prevalence of postpartum PTSD was recorded as 2.7% (n=6), 0.9% (n=2) and 0.5% (n=1) at their first, second and sixth month postpartum, respectively. A period prevalence of 3.6% was observed over 6 months. Verbal abuse during labour (p=0.04) and the presence of postpartum depression (P≤0.001) were significantly associated with postpartum PTSD. There were no significant associations between PTSD and gestational age at delivery, whether it was a pregnancy planned ahead or not, a history of subfertility, family history of psychiatric disorders, intimate partner violence, receiving antenatal counseling, type and mode of delivery, duration of labour, presence of a labour companion, mental trauma, presence of post-partum hemorrhage, manual removal of placenta, negative birth experience, low APGAR score of the baby at delivery, receiving neonatal and maternal intensive care, birth defects, problems with breast feeding or opportunities to discuss problems with a health care worker. ConclusionsPrevalence of postpartum PTSD in this semi-urban community during the study period was 3.6%; which is in par with the overall global prevalence. PTSD was significantly associated with verbal abuse during labour and postpartum depression.
Antimicrobial peptide AMP-17 exerts anti-Candida albicans effects through ROS-mediated apoptosis and necrosis
Authors: Ma Huiling , Yang Longbing , Tian Zhuqing , Zhu Lijuan , Xiu JiangFan , Fu Ping , Peng Jian , Guo Guo
Published: December 2020

Background: New anti-candida albicans drugs need to be developed due to the emergence of drug-resistant cases in recent years. AMP-17 (Musca. domestica antimicrobial pepitide-17) is an antimicrobial peptide from M. domestica, which inhibits many fungal pathogens including Candida albicans (C. albicans) effectively. In this article, we discuss the potential mechanism of AMP-17 against C. albicans from the perspective of affecting its cell internal structure.Methods: After AMP-17 treatment, we examined the ultrastructure of C. albicans by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and detected the cell cycle using flow cytometry. Fluorescent probes were used to examine the reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in C. albicans cells and to analyze the correlation between ROS accumulation and C. albicans cell necrosis. The JC-1 kit was used to measure the effect of AMP-17 on the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) of C. albicans cells. AMP-17-induced apoptosis and necrosis was investigated using an Annexin V-FITC apoptosis detection kit.Results: Morphological observations showed that the shape of C. albicans treated with AMP-17 was irregular, and vacuoles were found in the cytoplasmic region. The treatment of C. albicans with AMP-17 resulted in the elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and changes in cell cycle, which promoted apoptosis and necrosis of C. albicans cells. The level of apoptosis increased in a dose-dependent manner after AMP-17 treatment.Conclusions: AMP-17 inhibited the growth and proliferation of C. albicans cells by altering the cell cycle of C. albicans. In addition, AMP-17 stimulated mitochondria to produce excess ROS for anti-stress, but the excess ROS damages the function of mitochondria in return and results in the alteration of MMP. All of these ultimately contributes to the death of C. albicans.
Resveratrol Can Revert Adverse Effects of Oocyte aging in Pig
Authors: Abbassi Benazir , Yan Dong , Rui Rong
Published: December 2020

This study was aimed to evaluate the potential of resveratrol (RES) to alleviate the adverse effects of aging in porcine oocytes through alleviating oxidative stress and up-regulating anti-apoptotic genes. Porcine oocytes were cultured in an in vitro medium supplemented with four levels (0, 1, 2, and 4 µmol/L) of RES. Based on initial screening; optimum RES level (2 µmol/L) was used to evaluate its potential effects on oocytes aged for 24 and 48 hours. Our results revealed that aged oocytes (24 h and 48 h) treated with RES showed higher (P < 0.05) ROS fluorescence intensity than the control group, but lower (P < 0.05) than untreated aged groups. The GSH content in untreated aged groups (24 h and 48 h) was lower (P < 0.05) than RES treated groups but both groups showed higher levels than the control. Similarly, the relative expression of antioxidant genes (CAT, GSH-Px, and SOD1) in RES treated groups was lower (P < 0.05) than the control group, but higher than untreated aged groups. Moreover, the relative mRNA expression of caspase-3 and Bax in RES treated groups was higher (P < 0.05) than the control group but lower than untreated groups. Furthermore, the expression of Bcl-2 in the RES treated group was significantly lower than control but higher than untreated aged groups. Our findings revealed that the RES can increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes while decreasing the level of ROS in porcine aged oocytes. Moreover, RES showed its potent anti-apoptotic effects and potentially resisted against the decline in mitochondrial membrane potential in aged oocytes.
What determines HIV self-test acceptability and uptake within the MSM community in Nairobi and its environs? A cross sectional study
Authors: Ndungu Kingori , Gichangi Peter , Temmerman Marleen
Published: December 2020

Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus self-test (HIVST) refers to a process where a person collects his or her own specimen (blood or oral), performs a test and interprets the results. The interpretation of results can either be done in private or through support of a trusted partner. Self-test should be seen as screening and confirmatory test should be sort.Study ObjectiveTo determine facilitating factors for HIVST acceptability and uptake among MSM community.Methods: The researcher employed a cross-sectional exploratory study design, targeting men who have sex with men (MSM) in Nairobi. Adult men (aged 18-60 years) that reported to be actively engaging in anal or oral sex with men were eligible for the study. The researcher used purposive sampling to identify the sites where data was collected, snowballing technique was then employed to reach the respondents. Data was collected between July 2018-June 2019. A total of 391 MSM respondent were recruited to fill the self-administered questionnaires, 369 MSM completed the questionnaires (response rate = 94%). Results: There was a significant association between self-test and frequency of testing for HIV/AIDS at P-Value of 0.011. The respondents who had a positive result from the previous test were 16% and 80% of the respondents would seek confirmatory test, if tested HIV positive through HIVST. There was also a significant association between respondents who had never tested using self-test kits and the need for a testing “buddy” with a P- Value of 0.014. Fifty nine percent of the respondents would prefer blood sample test kits. High cost of the self-test kits and inadequate knowledge on the use of HIV self-test kits were the main hindrances to HIVST uptake.Conclusions: A significant number of MSM community in Kenya are willing to use HIVST and are likely to seek for care within 30 days and this is a good indicator of linkage. Blood sample kits are more preferred. Key facilitating factors for HIVST uptake include; awareness creation on HIVST, training on usage of kits, emphasis on testing ‘buddy” for first time testers and reduction on cost of the kits.
Does women’s place of birth affect their opportunity for an informed choice about Down syndrome screening? A population-based study in France.
Authors: Anselem Olivia , Saurel-Cubizolles Marie-Josèphe , Khoshnood Babak , Blondel Béatrice , Sauvegrain Priscille , Bertille Nathalie , Azria Elie
Published: December 2020

Background To examine disparities in the opportunity to make an informed choice about Down syndrome screening by maternal place of birth, in France, where the French national authority for health (HAS) recommends that physicians offer it to all. We used population-based data from the nationally representative French Perinatal Surveys in 2010 and 2016 (N=24,644 women) to analyze the opportunity for an informed choice for prenatal screening, measured by a composite indicator. Results Among the 24 644 women in the study, 20 612 (83.6%) were born in France, 861 (3.5%) elsewhere in Europe, 1550 (6.3%) in North Africa, and 960 (3.9%) in Sub-Saharan Africa. The probability of screening was lower for women born outside France. After adjustment for survey year, maternal age, parity, education level, and level of perinatal care of the maternity, women born outside France had less often the opportunity to make an informed choice as compared with women born in France. This association remained essentially the same even after excluding women without adequate prenatal care. Conclusions Women born outside France, including those with adequate prenatal care, had less opportunity than women born in France to make an informed choice about prenatal screening for Down syndrome.
Comparative chloroplast genomes: insights into the evolution of the chloroplast genome of Camellia sinensis and the phylogeny of Camellia 
Authors: li Li , Hu Yunfei , He Min , Zhang Bo , Wu Wei , Cai Pumo , Huo Da , Hong Yongcong
Published: December 2020

Background: Chloroplast genome resources can provide useful information for the evolution of plant species. Tea plant (Camellia sinensis) is among the most economically valuable member of Camellia. Here, we determined the chloroplast genome of the first natural triploid Chinary type tea ( ‘Wuyi narcissus’ cultivar of Camellia sinensis var. sinensis, CWN) and conducted the genome comparison with the diploid Chinary type tea (Camellia sinensis var. sinensis, CSS) and two types of diploid Assamica type teas (Camellia sinensis var. assamica: Chinese Assamica type tea, CSA and Indian Assamica type tea, CIA). Further, the evolutionary mechanism of the chloroplast genome of Camellia sinensis and the relationships of Camellia species based on chloroplast genome were discussed.Results: Comparative analysis showed the evolutionary dynamics of chloroplast genome of Camellia sinensis were the repeats and insertion-deletions (indels), and distribution of the repeats, indels and substitutions were significantly correlated. Chinese tea and Indian tea had significant differences in the structural characteristic and the codon usage of the chloroplast genome. Analysis of sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) using sequences of the intergenic spacers (trnE/trnT) showed none of 292 different Camellia sinensis cultivars had similar sequence characteristic to triploid CWN, but the other four Camellia species did. Estimations of the divergence time showed that CIA diverged from the common ancestor of two Assamica type teas about 6.2 Mya (CI: 4.4-8.1 Mya). CSS and CSA diverged to each other about 0.8 Mya (CI: 0.4-1.5 Mya). Moreover, phylogenetic clustering was not exactly consistent with the current taxonomy of Camellia.Conclusions: The repeat-induced and indel-induced mutations were two important dynamics contributed to the diversification of the chloroplast genome in Camellia sinensis, which were alternative but not mutually exclusive. Chinese tea and Indian tea might have undergone different selection pressures. Chloroplast transfer occurred during the polyploidy in Camellia sinensis. In addition, our results supported the three different domestication origins of Chinary type tea, Chinese Assamica type tea and Indian Assamica type tea. And, the current classification of some Camellia species might need to be further discussed.
Normalization of enzyme expression and activity regulating vitamin A metabolism increases RAR-beta expression and reduces cellular migration and proliferation in diseases caused by tuberous sclerosis gene mutations
Authors: Abdelwahab ElHusseiny MM , Bovari-Biri Judit , Smuk Gabor , Harko Tunde , Fillinger Janos , Moldvay Judit , Krymskaya Vera , Pongracz Judit E
Published: December 2020

Background Mutation in a tuberous sclerosis gene (TSC1 or 2) leads to continuous activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). mTOR activation alters cellular including vitamin A metabolism and retinoic acid receptor beta (RARβ) expression. The goal of the present study was to investigate the molecular connection between vitamin A metabolism and TSC mutation. We also aimed to investigate the effect of the FDA approved drug rapamycin and the vitamin A metabolite retinoic acid (RA) in cell lines with TSC mutation. Methods Expression and activity of vitamin A associated metabolic enzymes and RARβ were assessed in human kidney angiomyolipoma derived cell lines, primary lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) tissue derived LAM cell lines as well as RARβ protein levels were tested in primary LAM lung tissue sections. TaqMan arrays, enzyme activities, qRT-PCRs, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescent staining and western blotting were performed and analysed. The functional effects of retinoic acid (RA) and rapamycin were tested in a scratch and a BrDU assay to assess cell migration and proliferation. Results Metabolic enzyme arrays revealed a general deregulation of many enzymes involved in vitamin A metabolism including aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs), alcohol dehydrogenases (ADHs) and Cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1). Furthermore, RARβ downregulation was a characteristic feature of all TSC-deficient cell lines and primary tissues. Combination of the two FDA approved drugs -RA for acute myeloid leukaemia and rapamycin for TSC mutation- normalised ALDH and ADH expression and activity, restored RARβ expression and reduced cellular proliferation and migration. Conclusion Deregulation of vitamin A metabolizing enzymes is a feature of TSC mutation. RA can normalize RARβ levels and limit cell migration, but does not have a significant effect on proliferation. Based on our data, translational studies could confirm whether combination of RA with reduced dosage of rapamycin would have more beneficial effects to higher dosage of rapamycin monotherapy meanwhile reducing adverse effects of rapamycin for patients with TSC mutation.