bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-World Comparative Effectiveness and Safety of Tofacitinib and Baricitinib in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Iwamoto Naoki , Sato Shuntaro , Kurushima Shota , Michitsuji Toru , Nishihata Shinya , Okamoto Momoko , Tsuji Yoshika , Endo Yushiro , Shimizu Toshimasa , Sumiyoshi Remi , Suzuki Takahisa , Okada Akitomo , Koga Tomohiro , Kawashiri Shin-ya , Fujikawa Keita , Igawa Takashi , Aramaki Toshiyuki , Ichinose Kunihiro , Tamai Mami , Nakamura Hideki , Mizokami Akinari , Origuchi Tomoki , Ueki Yukitaka , Eguchi Katsumi , Kawakami Atsushi
Published: March 2021

Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of tofacitinib and baricitinib in patients with RA in a real-world setting.Methods: A total of 242 patients with RA who were treated with tofacitinib (n=161) or baricitinib (n=81) were enrolled. To avoid confounding, we performed propensity score matching based on multiple baseline characteristic variables, and then 80 baricitinib-treated patients and 57 tofacitinib-treated patients were extracted for direct comparison. Their clinical disease activity and AEs were evaluated for 24 weeks. Results: The mean DAS28-ESR change from baseline to 24 weeks were 1.60 (tofacitinib) and 1.46 (baricitinib). There was no significant difference in the clinical response between two groups. The efficacy was not significantly changed in the patients without concomitant MTX use in both groups, but the concomitant MTX use showed better clinical efficacy in the cases of baricitinib treatment. In both groups, the most common AE was herpes zoster infection, and the AE rates were similar between the two groups. However, the predictive factors contributing to clinical response as revealed by a multivariable logistic analysis differed. The concomitant oral steroid use was independently associated with the achievement of DAS-low disease activity in both groups, whereas in the baricitinib group, the number of biological and/or targeted synthetic DMARDs previously used was also associated. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that tofacitinib and baricitinib had comparable continuing efficacies and safety profiles. However, the influence of clinical characteristics on the treatment response differed. Direct comparison provides useful information to optimal use of JAK inhibitors in real-world settings.
The analysis of psychological aspects of online education: Depression and happiness and their relationship with college students’ academic achievement
Authors: Avaznia Atefeh , Shoraka Hamid Reza , Nouhi Esmat
Published: March 2021

Background: Physical and psychological problems faced by college students during the COVID-19 pandemic and via online education can be investigated and prevented. Internet addiction, especially in online education, affects the student's academic and social life. This study aimed to explore the psychological aspects of depression and happiness due to Internet addiction and their relationships with students' academic achievement. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 510 students who were studying at Kerman University of Medical Sciences in 2019. The students were selected using multi-stage cluster sampling. The instruments used to collect the data were three standard questionnaires and a data collection form. The collected were analyzed statistically with SPSS software (version 22). Results: The mean score of Internet addiction was 36.73±18. Overall, 140 students (27.4%) were at the pre-addiction stage and 19 students (3.7%) were severely dependent on the Internet and social media. Internet addiction had a significant correlation with depression and happiness. However, no significant relationship was observed between Internet addiction and academic achievement. The results of multivariate linear regression analysis showed that Internet addiction was significantly correlated with the students’ age (P = 0.047), marital status (P = 0.001), and academic level (P = 0.002). Conclusion: The results of this study suggested approximately one-third of students were dependent on the Internet and social media or were about to become addicted. The results also confirmed the link between Internet addiction with depression and happiness in the students. Thus, Internet addiction showed a negative correlation with happiness but a positive correlation with addiction and depression. However, no significant relationship was observed between Internet addiction and academic achievement. Although the use of online education is a complementary and effective educational technique, it should be carefully managed in educational programs.
Comparison of Gene Expression in the Red Imported Fire Ant, Solenopsis Invicta, in Different Temperature Conditions
Authors: Park Youngjin , Vatanparast Mohammad , Puckett Robert , Choi Deuk-Soo
Published: March 2021

The red imported fire ant (RIFA), Solenopsis invicta Buren is native to South America and is known as a global problematic invasive species. This study focused on the molecular response of RIFA by comparing gene expression profiles after exposing ants to low (10℃) and high (40℃) temperature stress and comparing to untreated controls (30℃). A total of 99,085 unigenes were obtained, of which 19,154 were annotated with gene descriptions, gene ontology terms, and metabolic pathways. 86 gene ontology (GO) functional sub-groups and 23 EggNOG terms resulted. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with log2FC ≥ 10 were screened and were compared at different temperatures. We found 203, 48, and 66 specific DEGs co-regulated at 10, 20, and 40℃. Comparing transcriptome profiles for differential gene expression resulted in various DE proteins and genes, including cytochrome P450, NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1, cuticle protein and heat shock protein (HSP) which have previously been reported to be involved in cold and high temperature resistance. GO analysis revealed that antioxidant activity up-regulated under high temperature stress. We verified the RNA-seq data by qPCR on 20 up and down-regulated DEGs. These finding provide a basis for the future understanding of adaptation mechanism of RIFA and molecular mechanism underlying the response to low and high temperatures.
Positive Selection Affects the Expression of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Associated Loci in Human Populations
Authors: Oberreiter Victoria , Goellner Tobias , Morris David L. , Schaschl Helmut
Published: March 2021

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) shows marked population-specific disparities in disease prevalence, including substantial variation in manifestations and complications according to genetic ancestry. Several recent studies suggest that a substantial proportion of variation of gene expression shows genetic ancestry-associated differences in gene regulation on immune responses. Positive selection may act in a population-specific manner on expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) and thereby contributes to the difference in the differences of SLE prevalence and manifestation in human populations. We tested the hypothesises that some of the identified SLE risk polymorphisms display pleiotropic effects or polygenicity driven by positive selection. We performed a genome-wide scan for recent positive selection by using integrated Haplotype Score (iHS) statistics in different human populations. In addition, we estimated the timing of beneficial mutations to understand what possible selective pressures drive positive selection at SLE-associated loci. Results: We identified several SLE risk loci that are population-specifically under positive selection. Almost all SNPs that are under positive selection function as cis-eQTLs in different tissue types. We determined that adaptive eQTLs affect the expression of fewer genes than non-adaptive eQTLs, suggesting a limited range of effect of an eQTL at SLE risk sites that show signatures of positive selection. Furthermore, some positively selected SNPs are located in transcription factor binding sequences. The timing of positive selection for the studied loci suggests that both environmental and recent lifestyle changes during as well as after the Neolithic Transition may have become selectively effective. We propose a novel link between positively selected eQTLs at a certain SLE risk locus in Europeans and a physiological pathway not previously considered in SLE.Conclusions: We conclude that population-specific adaptive eQTLs contribute to the observed variation in specific manifestations and complications of SLE in different ethnicities. Our results suggest also that human populations adapt more rapidly to environmental and lifestyle stimuli via modification of gene expression without having to alter the genetic code.
Plasmids facilitate pathogenicity, not cooperation, in bacteria
Authors: Dewar Anna , Thomas Joshua , Scott Thomas , Wild Geoff , Griffin Ashleigh , West Stuart , Ghoul Melanie
Published: March 2021

Horizontal gene transfer via plasmids could favour cooperation in bacteria, because transfer of a cooperative gene turns non-cooperative cheats into cooperators. This hypothesis has received support from both theoretical and genomic analyses. In contrast, with a comparative analysis across 51 diverse species, we found that genes for extracellular proteins, which are likely to act as cooperative ‘public goods’, were not more likely to be carried on either: (i) plasmids compared to chromosomes; or (ii) plasmids that transfer at higher rates. Our results were supported by theoretical modelling which showed that while horizontal gene transfer can help cooperative genes initially invade a population, it does not favour the longer-term maintenance of cooperation. Instead, we found that genes for extracellular proteins were more likely to be on plasmids when they coded for pathogenic virulence traits, in pathogenic bacteria with a broad host-range. Taken together, these results support an alternate hypothesis, that plasmid gene location confers benefits other than horizontal gene transfer.
Treatment of Six COVID-19 Patients with Convalescent Plasma
Authors: Jin Can , Zhang Shucheng , Li Bohan , Wu Linlin , Yi Shihao , Zhou Hourong , He Zhixu , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2021

Objective The global mortality toll of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is rapidly increasing. Current antiviral therapy is insufficient, so it is crucial to develop new treatments. We assessed the efficacy of convalescent plasma transfusion for COVID-19 patients.Methods This retrospective, single-center study was conducted on six COVID-19 patients treated with convalescent plasma at Guizhou Provincial Jiangjunshan Hospital in China, from January 29 to April 30, 2020; the final follow-up data was collected on May 20, 2020. The efficacy of convalescent plasma was evaluated symptom relief and improvements in laboratory indicators and chest imaging abnormalities. Results Following treatment with convalescent plasma, the laboratory indicators and chest imaging examination of patients 1–3 changed from abnormal to normal. Regarding the relapsed patients (patients 4–6), two obtained negative severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test results on consecutive throat swabs after receiving convalescent plasma therapy (on days 24 and 3 for patients 4 and 6, respectively). Patient 5 received only one round of convalescent plasma transfusion; this patient’s laryngeal swab test results for SARS-CoV-2 have remained consistently positive so far.Conclusions The clinical conditions of six patients with COVID-19 improved following treatment with antiviral drugs and systemic corticosteroids combined with appropriate rounds of convalescent plasma therapy, indicating that infusion with convalescent plasma may be beneficial for patients with COVID-19.This study was registered in Chinese Clinical Trial Registry Center. (CCTR number: ChiCTR 2000033056, registered 19 May 2020)
Genome-wide Analysis and Functional Characterization of the Della Gene Family Associated With Stress Tolerance in B. Napus
Authors: Sarwar Rehman , Jiang Ting , Ding Peng , Gao Yue , Tan Xiaoli , Zhu Keming
Published: March 2021

Background: Brassica napus is an essential crop for oil and livestock feed. Eventually, this crop’s economic interest is at the most risk due to anthropogenic climate change. DELLA proteins constitute a significant repressor of plant growth to facilitate survival under constant stress conditions. DELLA proteins lack DNA binding domain, but can interact with various transcription factors or transcription regulators of different hormonal families. Significant progress has been made on Arabidopsis and cereal plants. However, no comprehensive study regarding DELLA proteins have been delineated in B. napus.Results: In our study, we have identified 10 BnDELLA genes. All of the BnDELLAs are closely related to five AtDELLA genes, suggesting a relative function and structure. Chromosomal mapping revealed the uneven distribution of BnDELLAs on eight chromosomes, and site-specific selection assessment proposes BnDELLAs purifying selection. The motifs composition in all BnDELLA genes is uneven; however, every BnDELLA gene contains 12 highly conserved motifs, encoding DELLA and GRAS domain. The two known miRNAs (bna-miR6029 and bna-miR603) targets, BnC07RGA and BnA09GAI, were also predicted. Furthermore, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis has exhibited the BnDELLA genes’ diverse expression patterns in various plant organs. Additionally, cis-acting element prediction shows that all BnDELLA genes contain light, stress, and hormone-responsive elements on their promoters. The gene ontology (GO) enrichment report indicated that BnDELLA genes mainly regulate stress responses. Through publicly available RNA-seq analysis, we determined the induced expression of BnDELLA genes by different biotic and abiotic stress treatments.Conclusion: The present study provides essential information on the BnDELLA gene family in B. napus, illustrates the significance of BnDELLAs in stress adaptation, and suggests modulating BnDELLAs expression is a promising way to intensify B. napus stress tolerance and harvest index.
Constitutive Modeling for Prediction of Optimal Process Parameters in Tribo-corrosion Inhibition of Steel Pipes Carrying Fracking Fluid
Authors: Panda Jitendra narayan , Orquera Edwin Yanez , Wong Brandon Christopher , Egberts Philip
Published: March 2021

The present work examines the effect of three propriety corrosion inhibitors (Dynarate, DWP and CalGuard) on the tribo-corrosion behavior of AISI 4715 steels used to carry fracking liquid from their storage pool to the geological formation. The effect of these three additives on the wear and corrosion behavior of AISI 4715 steel was investigated using a reciprocating tribometer integrated with an open circuit potential electrochemical apparatus. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was applied to statistically model the effects of various concentrations of Dynarate, DWP andCalGuard on the average coefficient of friction (COF) between the steel and a sapphire counter surface, as well as the total wear loss of the steel due to the combined action of wear-corrosion and inhibition efficiency during sliding. The mathematical regression models were derived from the analysis of variance (ANOVA) techniques. Optimization of the individual variables to minimize the friction and wear responses was estimated using RSM. A full quadratic regression model was established and authenticated before the variables were optimized for different responses. The overall results revealed that Dynarate significantly decreased the COF (0.147) and wear rate (0.3 mm/year) with an inhibitionefficiency of 480% at a concentration of 1%. To investigate the effectiveness of the regression model at predictingthe wear rate, the samples were characterized using 3D optical prolometer and scanning probe microscopy to describe the effect of various additive on the surface morphology of steel. The surface topography measurementsindicated the worn regions for the samples where the Dynarate additive was used was smoother compared with those having the DWP and CalGuard additives. This observation was attributed to the formation of protective lm which limits the transfer of aggressive ions transfer to the steel surface and reduced the total wear loss due to wear and corrosion.
More Than 50 Long-Term Effects of COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lopez-Leon Sandra , Wegman-Ostrosky Talia , Perelman Carol , Sepulveda Rosalinda , Rebolledo Paulina , Cuapio Angelica , Villapol Sonia
Published: March 2021

Background. COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, can involve sequelae and other medical complications that last weeks to months after initial recovery, which has come to be called Long-COVID or COVID long-haulers. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to identify studies assessing long-term effects of COVID-19 and estimates the prevalence of each symptom, sign, or laboratory parameter of patients at a post-COVID-19 stage. Methods. LitCOVID (PubMed and Medline) and Embase were searched by two independent researchers. All articles with original data for detecting long-term COVID-19 published before 1st of January 2021 and with a minimum of 100 patients were included. For effects reported in two or more studies, meta-analyses using a random-effects model were performed using the MetaXL software to estimate the pooled prevalence with 95% CI. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics. This systematic review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviewers and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, although the study protocol was not registered. Results. A total of 18,251 publications were identified, of which 15 met the inclusion criteria. The prevalence of 55 long-term effects was estimated, 21 meta-analyses were performed, and 47,910 patients were included. The follow-up time ranged from 14 to 110 days post-viral infection. The age of the study participants ranged between 17 and 87 years. It was estimated that 80% (95% CI 65-92) of the patients that were infected with SARS-CoV-2 developed one or more long-term symptoms. The five most common symptoms were fatigue (58%), headache (44%), attention disorder (27%), hair loss (25%), and dyspnea (24%). All meta-analyses showed medium (n=2) to high heterogeneity (n=13). Conclusions. In order to have a better understanding, future studies need to stratify by sex, age, previous comorbidities, the severity of COVID-19 (ranging from asymptomatic to severe), and duration of each symptom. From the clinical perspective, multi-disciplinary teams are crucial to developing preventive measures, rehabilitation techniques, and clinical management strategies with whole-patient perspectives designed to address long COVID-19 care.
An Approach to the Design of Photovoltaic Noise Barriers and a Case Study From Istanbul, Turkey
Authors: hasmaden ferhan , Gedik Gülay Zorer , Akdağ Neşe Yüğrük
Published: March 2021

Solar energy solutions that do not require additional space are critical. Noise barriers, which are built in low-value lands next to noise sources, provide effective areas for PV modules. There are many studies on using noise barriers as a sub-structure for photovoltaic systems, providing electricity generation besides noise reduction targets. Photovoltaic Noise Barrier (PVNB) technology combines noise control measures with renewable energy generation. In this study, it is aimed to develop an integrated design method that embeds solar energy technology in noise protection structures. The method is exemplified in an existing settlement located on the side of the road with heavy traffic. According to local climate and solar data, optimum tilt angles have been determined for annual, semi-annual, seasonal, and monthly periods. Noise barrier alternatives are derived with combinations of different diffraction edge sizes of barrier top and determined optimum inclination angles. The performance of the criteria that affect the PVNB effectiveness for alternatives was calculated through software tools. The energy generation potential of PVNB and its shading in adjacent blocks were calculated with PVsyst 6.7.7. The noise control efficiency of the structure was computed via SoundPLAN 7.2. TOPSIS method one of the most common multi-criteria decision-making technique (MCDM) was used in the evaluation. As a result of TOPSIS, the best PVNB solution in the case study is the alternative that has 3m and 2m wide edges; 58 ° and 31 ° tilted edges. Comparison with the current situation, the selected alternative will decrease %44 the number of receiving points affected by noise and provide 524804 kWh annual electricity generation.
An 8-lncRNA signature predicts the survival of triple-negative breast cancer patients without germline BRCA1/2 mutation
Authors: Liu Minling , Dai Wei , Zhu Mengyuan , Li Xueying , Haung Shan , Li Lei , FANG SHUO
Published: March 2021

TNBC with germline BRCA1/2 mutation (gBRCAm) have higher sensitivity to DNA damaging agents including platinum-based chemotherapy and PARP inhibitors. But the treatment of TNBC without gBRCAm remains challenging. This study aimed to develop a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) signature of TNBC patients without gBRCAm to improve risk stratification and optimize individualized treatment. 98 TNBC patients without gBRCAm were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The univariable Cox regression analysis and LASSO Cox regression model were applied to establish an lncRNA signature. Then Kaplan–Meier survival curve and time-dependent ROC curve were used to validate the prognostic ability of the signature. The qPCR assay was performed to confirm the expressions and clinicopathological correlations of two potential lncRNAs HAGLROS and TONSL-AS1 in 30 paired samples. We developed an 8-lncRNA signature in the training cohort including HAGLROS, AL139002.1, AL391244.2, AP000696.1, AL391056.1, AL513304.1, TONSL-AS1 and AL031008.1. Patients with higher risk scores showed significantly worse overall survival compared to those with lower risk scores (P = 0.00018 and P = 0.0068 respectively). 30 paired specimens of TNBC without gBRCAm in our center showed that two potential lncRNAs HAGLROS and TONSL-AS1 were found frequently overexpressed, and significantly associated with tumor grade and invasion.
Complete genome analysis of a newly isolated Shigella sonnei phage vB_SsoM_Z31
Authors: Wei Bingdong , Cong Cong , Xu Yongping , Zhang Lichun , Zhen Ling , Chen Long , Yu Wei
Published: March 2021

This work describes the characterization and genome annotation of a newly isolated lytic phage vB_SsoM_Z31 (referred to as Z31), isolated from wastewater samples collected in Dalian, China. Transmission electron microscope revealed that phage Z31 belongs to the family Myoviridae, order Caudovirales. This phage specifically infects the Shigella sonnei, Shigella dysenteriae and Escherichia coli. The genome of the phage Z31 is an 89,355 bp length dsDNA molecule with a G + C content of 38.87%. It has been predicted to contain 133 ORFs, and 24 tRNAs. No homologs of virulence factors or antimicrobial resistance genes were found in this phage. Based on the results of nucleotide sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis, phage Z31 was assigned to the genus Felixounavirus, subfamily Ounavirnae.
New Improved Thermoluminescence Magnesium Silicate Material for Clinical Dosimetry
Authors: Abass Mohamed Ragab , Diab Hassan M. , Abou-Mesalam Mamdouh M.
Published: March 2021

Magnesium silicate has been prepared by a precipitation technique. This composite structure was proven by different tools, XRD, TGA&DTA, FTIR, and XRF. Magnesium silicate was found to have the formulas Mg1.1SiO3.2.1.1H2O. Thermoluminescence (TL) dosimetric properties like (linearity, fading, energy independence) of magnesium silicate in the shape of MgSiO3 have been estimated. A strong TL dosimetry peak associated with gamma radiation arises from 137Cs was developed. Different doses from gamma radiation were measured by thermoluminescence (TL) detection technique for magnesium silicate glasses in unique magnesium elements concentration to assess its dosimetric properties. A single strong peak of about 230 °C arises for all irradiated samples. Total integral values of TL output and TL of the principal peak values showing a linear behavior start with 0.5 Gray up to 2 Gray dose range. Correlation of magnesium silicate TL response and different doses showed dose-response improvement concerning low doses linear relationship.
Vitamin C may increase the recovery rate of outpatient cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection by 70%: reanalysis of the COVID A to Z Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Hemilä Harri , Carr Anitra , Chalker Elizabeth
Published: March 2021

The COVID A to Z trial (JAMA Netw Open. 2021;4:e210369) is important as it focused specifically on SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus patients and examined a high dose of vitamin C which was previously predicted to reduce the duration of respiratory virus infections by about 20%. Unfortunately, there are several limitations in the trial methods. The COVID A to Z trial was “stopped early for futility”. In the sample size calculation, the authors assumed a 1.0 day shorter symptoms by intervention. Duration of symptoms was reduced by 1.2 days in the vitamin C arm compared with the usual care arm. Given that the observed vitamin C effect was 20% greater than the expected effect (1.2 vs. 1.0), it is illogical to have stopped the trial early because of “futility”. In this reanalysis we calculated the rate ratio of recovery between the vitamin C and usual care arms and found that vitamin C increased the rate of recovery by 70% (95% CI 6.8% to 170%, P = 0.025). Furthermore, we calculated quantile treatment effect of vitamin C. At the 60th percentile level of symptom distribution, duration was 9 days in the usual care arm, and 6 days in the vitamin C arm, which corresponds to reduction in symptom duration by 3 days (95% CI 3 to 4.6 days; P < 0.001). The analysis of the quantile treatment effect indicates that there may be around 30% reduction in symptom duration in patients with the longest symptoms. Our reanalysis indicates a need for methodologically sound trials with larger numbers of patients to investigate the treatment effects of vitamin C against SARS-CoV-2.
Analysis of multi-factor regulated network and different clusters in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy
Authors: Qin Xianyu , Huang Lei , Chen Shaoxian , Wen Pengju , Chen Sicheng , Wu Yueheng , Zhuang Jian
Published: March 2021

We herein explored the regulatory network between lncRNA, miRNAs, mRNAs, and TFs in the HOCM and divided HOCM samples into different clusters to identify key genes and regulatory factors. The four gene sets from GEO, GENE and OMIM databases were integrated and WGCNA network was used to obtain two modules and 32 core genes. Through online database, miRNA-lncRNA, miRNA-mRNA, and TF-mRNA interaction pairs were obtained to screen the regulatory factors, and finally a multi-factor regulatory network was obtained. The first 7 regulatory factors were obtained as the core regulatory factors. The unsupervised clustering method was used to divide HOCM samples into 4 clusters. As a result, four genes including COMP, FMOD, AEBP1 and SULF1 showed significant expression in different clusters. Finally, we got 4 genes are considered as important biomarkers for different progressive stages or prognosis of HOCM. These might assist in discovering molecular mechanisms of HOCM in the future.
A novel anatomic titanium mesh cage for reducing the subsidence rate after anterior cervical corpectomy: a finite element study
Authors: Wang Yuhang , Yang Huiming , Guo Hua , Zhang Haiping , Zhao Qinpeng , Hao Dingjun , Wang Biao
Published: March 2021

Fusion with a titanium mesh cage (TMC) has become popular as a conventional method after cervical anterior corpectomy, but postoperative TMC subsidence has often been reported in the literature. We designed a novel anatomic cervical TMC to reduce the postoperative subsidence rate. According to the test process specified in the American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) F2267 standard, three-dimensional finite element analysis was used to compare the anti-subsidence characteristics of a traditional TMC (TTMC) and novel TMC (NTMC). Through analysis, The relative propensity values of a device to subside (Kp) of the TTMC and NTMC were be 665.5 N/mm and 1007.2 N/mm, respectively. A higher Kp measurement is generally expected to indicate that the device is more resistant to subsidence into a vertebral body. The results showed that the novel anatomic titanium mesh cage (NTMC) significantly improved the anti-subsidence performance after anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF), which was approximately 51.3% higher than that of the traditional titanium mesh cage.
COVIWD: COVID-19 Wikidata Dashboard
Authors: Darari Fariz
Published: March 2021

COVID-19 (short for coronavirus disease 2019) is an emerging infectious disease that has had a tremendous impact on our daily lives. Globally, there have been over 95 million cases of COVID-19 and 2 million deaths across 191 countries and regions. The rapid spread and severity of COVID-19 call for a monitoring dashboard that can be developed quickly in an adaptable manner. Wikidata is a free, collaborative knowledge graph, collecting structured data about various themes, including that of COVID-19. We present COVIWD, a COVID-19 Wikidata dashboard, which provides a one-stop information/visualization service for topics related to COVID-19, ranging from symptoms and risk factors to comparison of cases and deaths among countries. The dashboard is one of the first that leverages open knowledge graph technologies, namely, RDF (for data modeling) and SPARQL (for querying), to give a live, concise snapshot of the COVID-19 pandemic. The use of both RDF and SPARQL enables rapid and flexible application development. COVIWD is available at http://coviwd.org.
Vitamin D Status and Cognitive Performance of Post Stroke Patients
Authors: Pinzon Rizaldy , Wijaya Vincent Ongko , Paramitha Dessy
Published: March 2021

Background: The prevalence of post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) ranges from 20-80%. Some studies found that vitamin D deficiency was common in stroke patients, yet the relationship with cognitive performance remains unclear. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between levels of vitamin D and cognitive performance in post-stroke patients.Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with 20 post-ischemic stroke patients. Vitamin D levels were measured using enzyme-linked fluorescent assay (ELFA). The cognitive performance was assessed by computerized mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and clock drawing test (CDT). The relationship between vitamin D levels and cognitive tests were performed using paired T-test.Results: Vitamin D insufficiency (<30 ng/mL) was experienced by all of the study subjects (100%), with the mean±SD of vitamin D level was 13.75±4.06 ng/mL. More than 70% subjects had cognitive impairment. Based on MMSE, patients with cognitive impairment had lower vitamin D levels, compared with those patients with normal cognition (13±4.38 vs. 16±2.44 ng/mL, p<0.001). In CDT examination, patients with cognitive impairment had slightly higher vitamin D levels, compared with those patients with normal cognition (13.93±4.25 vs. 13.33±3.93 ng/mL, p<0.001).Conclusion: The insufficiency of vitamin D on post-ischemic stroke patients appears to generate a bigger chance of PSCI occurrence. Physicians should be aware of vitamin D status of post-stroke patients, especially in the older population.Keywords: vitamin D levels, post-stroke cognitive impairment, risk factors
Enhanced Removal of Methyl Violet Dye from Aqueous Solution by a
Novel Co3O4@SiO2@TiO2-Ag Heterogeneous Semiconductor
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Mohammad Ali , Elyasi Zahar , Monfared Mohammad Reza Zand
Published: March 2021

Background :

This research introduces the application of a novel photocatalyst including Co3O4@SiO2@TiO2-Ag nanocomposite with highly photocatalytic stability and core-shell structure for the removal of toxic methyl violet from aqueous solution.

Objective:

The removal of toxic dyes and organic contaminants from water is outstanding research area between scientists. Methyl violet as a toxic cationic pollutant has disruptive influence for humans. In this research, with a aim to remove to methyl violet from the wastewater we developed a new photocatalyst including Co3O4@SiO2@TiO2-Ag nanocomposite as a eco-friendly and low-cost nanostructure with high photocatalytic activity in order to reduce the risks of this pollutant from aqueous media.

Methods:

The Co3O4@SiO2@TiO2-Ag nanostructure was prepared via hydrothermal and sol-gel methods and the structure elucidation of the prepared photocatalyst was analyzed by different spectroscopy techniques including XRD, FT-IR, FE-SEM, TEM, VSM and EDX.

Results:

Photodegradation of methyl violet in the presence of different structures showed that Co3O4@SiO2@TiO2-Ag is superior photocatalytic activity (about 98% was decomposed after 40 min) compared to the previous shells and pure Co3O4 NPs. Loadings of SiO2@TiO2-Ag nanocomposite over the Co3O4 surface led to the reduction in the band gap energy of visible light and improvement in the photocatalytic activity of Methyl Violet dye for the aqueous phase decomposition.

Conclusion:

The remarkable benefits of this nanocomposite are highly photocatalytic efficiency in the degradation of methyl violet (almost 100 % within 1 h), easy magnetic separation, low cost, and high chemical stability. The collected results demonstrated the rate of degradation is increased by increasing the irradiation time, while the rate of degradation is decreased by dye concentration.
Connectivity Map Analysis Identifies Fisetin as a Treatment Compound for Osteoporosis Through Activating the PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathway in Mouse Pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 Cells
Authors: Xu Linxiao , He Xinyunxi , Zhou Yuanyi , Yu Kailing , Yuan Mingyue , Zhang Qiaoyan , Qin Luping , Zhang Quanlong
Published: March 2021

Aims:

This research aimed at exploring potential new compounds to be used in the treatment
of osteoporosis by Connectivity Map (CMap) and determining the role of fisetin in osteoporosis
according to its effects on the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway in MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblastic cells.

Methods:

Microarray analysis was used to obtain the differentially expressed genes in published gene
expression data. Potent compounds for osteoporosis therapy were discovered by CMap analysis.
DAVID and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) were used to discover signaling pathways that
connected to osteoporosis disease. Cell viability was evaluated by a CCK-8 assay. Quantitative realtime
Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot analysis were used to test the mRNA
and protein expressions related to the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway in MC3T3-E1 cells, respectively.

Results:

CMap analysis identified fisetin as a promising compound for anti-osteoporosis treatment.
DAVID and GSEA analysis showed that the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway was inactivated in osteoporosis.
Cell experiments revealed that fisetin caused an elevation of cell viability, up-regulated the
mRNA levels of the Runt-related transcription factor-2 (Runx2), Osterix (Osx), collagen type I 1
(Col1a1) and Osteoprotegerin (OPG) while down-regulated the nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)
mRNA level.

Discussion:

The protein levels of Runx2, Col1a1 and Osteocalcin (OCN) were also increased by
fisetin. Furthermore, fisetin activated the phosphoinositide-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K-AKT)
signaling pathway, and blocking this pathway by the inhibitor LY-294002 could impair fisetin’s functions
on proliferation, differentiation and OPG/RANKL expression ratio in the MC3T3-E1 cells.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrated that fisetin could promote MC3T3-E1 cell proliferation, differentiation
and increase OPG/RANKL expression ratio through activating the PI3K-AKT pathway,
which has potential for the treatment of osteoporosis.
Structural and Electrical Properties of Glucose Biosensors Based on ZnO
and ZnO-CuO Nanostructures
Authors: Albiss Borhan Aldeen , Abdullah Hadeel S. , Alsaad Ahmad Mohammad
Published: March 2021

Background:

Nanostructured metal oxides have stimulated tremendous efforts for sightseeing
glucose bio-sensing applications. They have been mostly investigated to fabricate highly sensitive,
stabilized and ultrafast biosensors.

Objective:

Fabrication and characterization of glucose biosensors based on zinc oxide (ZnO)
nanostructured thin films modified by copper oxide (CuO) nanostructures in order to obtain stabilized
ZnO:CuO biosensors with high sensitivity and fast response time.

Methods:

The components of the investigated biosensors are synthesized using the hydrothermal solgel
method by dip-coating the sensing layer on indium tin oxide-coated glass substrates (ITO). The
structural and electrical properties of the fabricated biosensors are investigated using scanning electron
microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and I-V characteristics.

Results:

SEM micrographs indicate that ZnO nanostructures exhibit an interconnected sheet-like
patterns. These sheets are thin and distributed randomly on the ITO substrate. SEM images of
ZnO:CuO reveal that the morphology of nanostructured thin films is composed of flower-like patterns.
The XRD patterns of ZnO and modified ZnO:CuO thin films subjected to thermal annealing
show that thin films exhibit a high degree of crystallinity with minor traces of impurity phases. The
biosensors' key parameters are calculated and interpreted by measuring the I-V characteristics to
elucidate the sensitivity and reproducibility of measurements performed for various glucose concentrations.
Furthermore, the electric current response of ZnO and ZnO:CuO biosensors are found to be
linear and quadratic as a function of glucose concentration, respectively. The introduction of CuO
into ZnO thin films leads to the enhancement of the sensitivity of the synthesized glucose biosensors
for a high degree of precision in measuring glucose levels.

Conclusion:

Both sensors exhibit average sensitivities in the range (from 1 to 10 μA mM−1 cm−2)
with quite good reproducibility. The unique property of this sensor is its ability to measure glucose
concentrations at neutral pH conditions (i.e. pH = 7) using a simple, low cost and novel sensor design.
COVID-19: Potential Repurposing Drugs
Authors: Leowattana Wattana
Published: March 2021

:

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is one of the most infectious diseases and caused coronavirus disease in 2019 (COVID-19). It has been widely spread worldwide and infected more than 28 million peoples in 215 countries, and more than 920,000 have now died from COVID-19. To date, no effective antiviral drugs or specific vaccines have been discovered yet. In this bewilderment, the potential therapeutic antiviral drug targets for the COVID-19 are repurposing to speed up the discovery of effective treatment. The most potential drug targets are continuously published, especially Favipiravir, Chloroquine, Hydroxychloroquine, and Remdesivir. Moreover, the antiviral target proteins and anti-host target proteins were reported continuously. This review summarized the current research studies of potential therapeutic drug targets being tested against the SARS-CoV-2. It will provide information relative to potential repurposing drugs to overcome the COVID-19.
Dual Targeting of Autophagy and NF-κB Pathway by PPARγ Contributes to the Inhibitory Effect of Demethoxycurcumin on NLRP3 Inflammasome Priming
Authors: Tang Jing , Tan Xiaoxue , Huang Xiangmi , Zhang Jie , Chen Liang , Li Aiyuan , Wang Deming
Published: March 2021

Background:

Demethoxycurcumin (DMC), a natural derivative of curcumin, has anti-inflammatory
activities. However, the mechanism has not been fully elucidated.

Objective:

The aim of the current study was to investigate the role of DMC on NLRP3 inflammasome
priming.

Methods:

Protein expression was quantified by western blotting. Inflammatory cytokines were measured
by ELISA. Autophagosomes were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy.

Results:

DMC inhibited LPS-stimulated NLRP3, pro-caspase-1, and pro-IL-1β expression. Meanwhile,
DMC diminished NLRP3-dependent IL-1β maturation, caspase-1 activation, IL-1β, and
IL-18 production caused by LPS plus ATP. Moreover, DMC induced autophagy and autophagy inhibitor
3-MA abrogated the role of DMC on NLRP3 inflammasome priming and subsequent activation.
DMC also inhibited LPS-stimulated phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of p65 NF-κB.
Additionally, DMC significantly increased the PPARγ expression, and the effects of DMC in NF-
κB inhibition, autophagy, and NLRP3 inflammasome priming were abrogated by specific PPARγ
antagonist T0070907.

Conclusion:

The evidence presented here has confirmed that DMC increases PPARγ expression,
resulting in autophagy and NF-κB inhibition, and subsequently inhibits LPS-induced NLRP3 inflammasome
priming and subsequent activation.
Poder y representación en las fiestas efímeras: la entrada triunfal en potosí del virrey-arzobispo morcillo
Authors: Zinni Mariana C.
Published: March 2021

En este estudio se propone el análisis de determinados artefactos iconográficos, que se erigen con motivo de celebrar la entrada triunfal del recién nombrado virrey interino arzobispo don Diego de Morcillo y Auñón, a la Villa Rica del Cerro de Potosí, de paso rumbo a Lima. Tales artefactos, los magníficos arcos triunfales, mascaradas, una loa y hasta un cuadro al óleo, comisionado a Melchor Pérez de Holguín, se diseñan con antelación; el objetivo es exaltar la figura del virrey, plasmando las figuras emblemáticas acostumbradas. Se propone la lectura de algunos aspectos del programa iconográfico producido en torno a la figura de Morcillo, con el objeto de dilucidar rasgos locales y de la agencia criolla en Potosí, desplegada cuidadosamente en estos emblemas.
FACTORS AFFECTING TEACHERS’ TECHNOLOGICAL PEDAGOGICAL AND CONTENT KNOWLEDGE (A SURVEY ON ECONOMICS TEACHER KNOWLEDGE)
Authors: Sojanah Janah , Suwatno Suwatno , Kodri Kodri , Machmud Amir
Published: March 2021

This study was conducted due to the lack of teachers’ Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK). It examined the effects of teaching experience, training, facilities and infrastructure, self-efficacy, as well as motivation on teachers’ TPACK. The descriptive and explanatory methods with quantitative approaches were employed. The population of this study included 472 economics teachers in the Greater Bandung area, while the respondents were 217 economics teachers selected using the proportional probability sampling technique. The instrument used to collect the data was tried out to forty economics teachers. The instrument validity was measured using the CVR formula, and the instrument reliability was tested using construct reliability. The data were collected by means of questionnaires and then analyzed using descriptive analysis and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results show that the teachers’ experience, training, facilities and infrastructure, self-efficacy, as well as motivation are at a low level. Likewise, the teachers’ TPACK seems to be low. Moreover, it is found that teaching experience, training, facilities and infrastructure, self-efficacy, as well as motivation have positive effects on teachers’ TPACK.
ACADEMIC PROCRASTINATION AMONG STUDENTS: THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL SUPPORT AND RESILIENCE MEDIATED BY RELIGIOUS CHARACTER
Authors: Madjid Abd. , Sutoyo Dian Aryogo , Shodiq Sadam Fajar
Published: March 2021

Academic procrastination among students is a serious problem with significant consequences. Social support and resilience are considered to have an important influence on students’ academic procrastination. This study aims to prove and analyze the effects of social support and resilience on students’ academic procrastination before and after mediation by religious character. Structural equation model (SEM) analysis test was used on the academic procrastination of students influenced by social support and resilience and mediated by religious character. The study population comprised 10,271 students from 9 faculties. The total sample was determined to be 797 students on the basis of Slovin’s formula. The research model analysis was conducted using a two-step approach involving measurement model analysis and SEM analysis to analyze the relationship between all latent variables in the research model. The results show that social support from family, friends, and the school can reduce the level of academic procrastination. Resilience is found to reduce and exert a significant and indirect effect on academic procrastination after mediation by religious character.
A Self-Assessment Web-Based App to Assess Trends of the COVID-19 Pandemic in France: Observational Study
Authors: Denis Fabrice , Fontanet Arnaud , Le Douarin Yann-Mael , Le Goff Florian , Jeanneau Stephan , Lescure François-Xavier
Published: March 2021

Background

We developed a self-assessment and participatory web-based triage app to assess the trends of the COVID-19 pandemic in France in March 2020.

Objective

We compared daily large-scale RT–PCR test results to monitor recent reports of anosmia through a web-based app to assess the dynamics of emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions among individuals with COVID-19 in France.

Methods

Between March 21 and November 18, 2020, users of the maladiecoronavirus.fr self-triage app were asked questions about COVID-19 symptoms. Data on daily hospitalizations, large-scale positive results on RT–PCR tests, emergency department visits, and ICU admission of individuals with COVID-19 were compared to data on daily reports of anosmia on the app.

Results

As of November 18, 2020, recent anosmia was reported 575,214 times from among approximately 13,000,000 responses. Daily anosmia reports during peak engagement with the app on September 16, 2020, were spatially correlated with the peak in daily COVID-19–related hospitalizations in November 2020 (Spearman rank correlation coefficient [ρ]=0.77; P<.001). This peak in daily anosmia reports was observed primarily among young adults (age range 18-40 years), being observed 49 days before the peak of hospitalizations that corresponded to the first wave of infections among the young population, followed by a peak in hospitalizations among older individuals (aged ≥50 years) in November 2020. The reduction in the daily reports of anosmia associated with the peaks in the number of cases preceded the reduction in daily hospitalizations by 10 and 9 days during the first and the second waves of infection, respectively, although the reduction in the positivity rates on RT–PCR tests preceded the reduction in daily hospitalizations by only 2 days during the second wave of infections.

Conclusions

Data on daily reports of anosmia collected through a nationwide, web-based self-assessment app can be a relevant tool to anticipate surges in outbreaks, hospitalizations, and ICU admission during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04331171; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04331171