bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cognitive Function is a Predictor of Home Discharge in Subacute Stroke Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ito Daisuke , Kawakami Michiyuki , Ishii Ryota , Tsujikawa Masahiro , Honaga Kaoru , Kondo Kunitsugu , Tsuji Tetsuya
Published: March 2022

Background: To investigate the cognitive function and its relation to home discharge of patients following subacute stroke.Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 1,229 convalescent patients experiencing first subacute stroke. We determined discharge destination and demographic and clinical information. We recorded the following measurement scores: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score, Stroke Impairment Assessment Set score, grip strength, and Functional Independence Measure (FIM). We performed a multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify factors related to home discharge. Results: Of the 1,229 participants (mean age: 68.7±13.5 years), 501 (40.8%), 735 (59.8%), and 1,011 (82.3%) were female, had cerebral infarction, and were home discharged, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age (odds ratio [OR], 0.93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.91–0.96; P<0.001), duration from stroke onset to admission (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.96–0.99; P=0.003), living situation (OR, 4.40; 95% CI, 2.69–7.20; P<0.001), MMSE score at admission (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.00–1.09; P=0.035), FIM motor score at admission (OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01–1.06; P=0.001), and FIM cognitive score at admission (OR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.04–1.13; P<0.001) were significantly associated with home discharge. Conclusions: MMSE at admission may be a useful indicator for predicting home discharge.
A Trojan horse biomimetic delivery system using mesenchymal stem cells for HIF-1α siRNA -loaded nanoparticles on RPE cells under hypoxia environment
Authors: Zhang Lei , Yan Jie-Jing , Li Mu-Qiong , Wang Xi-Xi , Fan Li , Wang Hai-Yan , Wang Yu-Sheng
Published: March 2022

AIM: To demonstrate the feasibility of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-mediated nano drug delivery, which was characterized by the “Trojan horse”-like transport of HIF-1α siRNA between MSCs and retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE) under hypoxia environment.METHODS: Plasmid and lentivirus targeting the human HIF-1α gene were designed and constructed by Genechem company. HIF-1α siRNA was encapsulated into Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)(PLGA) nanoparticles(NPs) through the water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) multiple emulsion technique. MSCs were transfected with the NPs and the transfection efficacy was evaluated by flow cytometry. Then a transwell co-culture system of MSCs and RPE was constructed under hypoxia environment. The effects of MSC-loaded HIF-1α siRNA PLGA-NPs on proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of RPE cells were then evaluated. The effect on HIF-1α expression of RPE cells was analyzed by using quantitative polymerase chain reaction at the time point 24 h, 3 d and 7 d.RESULTS: The average diameter of PLGA-NPs loaded with HIF siRNA was 314.1nm and the zeta potential was﹣0.36 mV. The transfection efficiency of PLGA NPs was (67.3%±5.2%) into MSCs by using flow cytometry. Compared with the lentivirus group, the PLGA-NPs loaded with HIF-1α siRNA can effectively reduce the expression of HIF-1α mRNA up to 7 days in RPE (0.63±0.05 at 7d, P < 0.001). In the transwell co-culture system of MSCs and RPE, the abilities of proliferation(2.34±0.17 vs 2.40 ± 0.28 vs2.47±0.24 at 48h, F=0.23, P=0.80), apoptosis(14.83 ± 2.43% vs 12.94 ± 2.19% vs 12.39 ± 3.21%; F= 0.70, P=0.53) and migration(124.5± 7.78 vs 119.5± 5.32 vs 130±9.89, F =1.33, P=0.33) of the RPE cells had no differences between MSC-loaded HIF-1α siRNA PLGA-NPs group and other groups. The inhibition of PLGA on the HIF-1α mRNA expression in RPE cells could continue until the 7th day, the level of HIF-1α mRNA was lower than that of other groups (F=171.98, P <0.001). CONCLUSION: The delivery of PLGA-NPs loaded with HIF-1α siRNA carried by MSCs is found to be beneficial temporally for HIF-1α mRNA inhibition in RPE cells under hypoxia environment. The MSC-based bio-mimetic delivery of HIF-1α siRNA nanoparticles is a potential method for therapy against choroidal neovascularization (CNV).
Model for Moisture Infiltration in Vegetated Soil with Preferential Flow Oriented by Plant Roots
Authors: Mair Andrew , Dupuy Lionel , Ptashnyk Mariya
Published: March 2022

Purpose: There is strong experimental evidence that root systems substantially change the hydraulic properties of soil. However, the mechanisms by which they do this remain largely unknown. In this work, we made the hypothesis that a preferential flow of soil moisture occurs in directions which follow the orientation and distribution of roots within the soil, and that this phenomenon alters groundwater flow patterns.
Methods: We modified Richards' equation to incorporate root-oriented preferential flow of soil moisture. Using the finite element method and Bayesian optimisation, we developed a pipeline to calibrate our model with respect to a given root system.
Results: When applied to simulated root distributions, our model produced pore-water pressure profiles which agreed with those derived from experimental saturated hydraulic conductivity values of soils vegetated with willow and grass. Agreement improved for simulated root distributions where root segments were oriented in a more realistic way, suggesting that the hydraulic characteristics of vegetated soils are a consequence of root-oriented preferential flow.
Conclusion: By incorporating root-oriented preferential flow, our model improves the ability to describe and analyse moisture infiltration through vegetated soil. This could help optimise irrigation, forecast flood events and plan landslide prevention strategies.
Fungicide Film Coating – a New Approach to Potato Tubers Health
Authors: Kiselev Evgeniy G. , Prudnikova Svetlana V. , Volova Tatiana G.
Published: March 2022

Pioneer results of seed-potato health improvement and the suppression of the infection development during the potato cultivation by the pre-sowing coating of the tubers with an azoxystrobin-loaded degradable polymer film coating are presented. Using the Krasnoyarskiy Ranniy potato variety as an example, we show the possibility of forming a film coating on the surface of tubers without damaging them and reducing sprouting, using a 1% solution of degradable polymer poly-3-hydroxybutyrate [P(3HB)] in dichloromethane. The half-life of the polymer coating in the field soil was 25 days. Its gradual destruction from planting potatoes to the beginning of the flowering phase ensured long-term delivery of the fungicide to plants. More active suppression of rhizospheric micromycetes, including pathogens (Alternaria alternata and Fusarium oxysporum), and the decrease in the frequency of occurrence of these pathogens on plants during the growing season were shown in comparison with pre-sowing spraying of tubers with a fungicidal preparation Quadris (comparison group). The healing benefit of the fungicide film coating had a positive effect on the formation of tubers and the quality of the potato crop. The percent of marketable tubers and the total yield in the experimental group were 58% and 24.0 ± 2.9 t/ha exceeding the comparison group indicators which were 50% and 18.4 ± 2.2 t/ha, respectively. The share of tubers with symptoms of Fusarium infection was 8.5% in the experimental group versus 12.1% in the comparison group. The fungicidal effect of a long-term degradable azoxystrobin-loaded polymeric film coating is more successful than the traditional treatment of tubers with a solution of this fungicide.
Detection of Kinase Domain Mutations in BCR-ABL1 Leukemia by Ultra-deep Sequencing of Genomic DNA
Authors: Sánchez Ricardo , Dorado Sara , Ruíz-Heredia Yanira , Martin Alejandro , Rosa-Rosa Juan Manuel , Ribera Jordi , García Olga , Jimenez-Ubieto Ana , Carreño-Tarragona Gonzalo , Linares María , Rufián Laura , Juárez Alexandra , Carrillo Jaime , Espino María José , Cáceres Mercedes , Expósito Sara , Cuevas Beatriz , Vanegas Raúl , Casado Luis Felipe , Torrent Anna , Zamora Lurdes , Mercadal Santiago , Coll Rosa , Cervera Marta , Morgades Mireia , Hernández-Rivas José Ángel , Bravo Pilar , Serí Cristina , Anguita Eduardo , Barragán Eva , Sargas Claudia , Ferrer Francisca , Sánchez-Calero Jorge , Sevilla Julián , Ruíz Elena , Villalón Lucía , Herráez María Mar , Riaza Rosalía , Magro Elena , Steegman Juan Luis , Wang Chongwu , de Toledo Paula , García-Gutiérrez Valentín , Ayala Rosa , Ribera Josep Maria , Barrio Santiago , Martínez-López Joaquín
Published: March 2022

The screening of the BCR-ABL1 kinase domain (KD) mutation has become a routine analysis in case of warning/failure for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) Philadelphia (Ph)-positive patients. In this study, we present a novel DNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) methodology for KD ABL1 mutation detection and monitoring with a 10 − 4 sensitivity. This approach was validated with a well-stablished RNA-based nested NGS method. The correlation of both techniques for the quantification of ABL1 mutations was high (Pearson r = 0.858, p < 0.001), offering DNA-DeepNGS a sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 82%. The clinical impact was studied in a cohort of 129 patients (n = 67 for CML and n = 62 for B-ALL patients). A total of 162 samples (n = 86 CML and n = 76 B-ALL) were studied. Of them, 27 out of 86 harbored mutations (6 in warning and 21 in failure) for CML, and 13 out of 76 (2 diagnostic and 11 relapse samples) did in B-ALL patients. In addition, in four cases were detected mutation despite BCR-ABL1IS < 1%. In conclusion, we were able to detect KD ABL1 mutations with a 10− 4 sensitivity by NGS using DNA as starting material even in patients with low levels of disease.
In vitro germination and development of “Canelita” (Lycaste aromatica (Graham) Lindl.) in gravity immersion bioreactors
Authors: Solís-Zanotelli Flor Y. , Baltazar-Bernal Obdulia , Cruz-Huerta Nicacio , Hidalgo-Contreras Juan V. , Pérez-Sato Juan A.
Published: March 2022

The orchid Lycaste aromatica (Graham) Lindl. is known for its outstanding cinnamon aroma, which has caused its illegal extraction from its natural habitat. For this reason, procedures were developed for the asymbiotic seeds germination and seedlings development in a gravity immersion bioreactor (GIB) system. Four culture media were tested for in vitro germination: ½ Murashige and Skoog (MS), MS, ½ Knudson C 15 g L− 1 sucrose, Knudson C. The efficiency of the in vitro culture protocol using the semi-solid medium was compared and with four immersion frequencies of the GIB system in a liquid medium, using 30 mL of ½ MS medium per seedling. Germination began at eight weeks and lasted for six weeks. The best treatment was ½ MS with 161 germinated seeds. In 90 days, the cultures in bioreactors reached significant differences in the number of leaves (10 leaves), number of roots (4.7 roots), and seedling height (5.4 cm). However, the seedlings developed in the semi-solid medium reported a higher number of shoots (1.6 shoots) and root length (2 cm); furthermore, the bioreactor culture showed the highest photosynthesis rate (0.74 µmol CO2 g− 1 s− 1). The culture system in bioreactors is an excellent alternative to develop this species because it increases photosynthesis and the size of the seedlings, which favor their acclimatization.
Increasing Trend of Type 1 Diabetes Incidence in the Pediatric Population of the Calabria Region in 2019-2021
Authors: Passanisi Stefano , Salzano Giuseppina , Aloe Monica , Bombaci Bruno , Citriniti Felice , De Berardinis Fiorella , De Marco Rosaria , Lazzaro Nicola , Lia Maria C. , Lia Rosanna , Mammì Francesco , Stamati Filomena A. , Toscano Rosanna MR , Ventrici Claudia , Iafusco Dario , Lombardo Fortunato
Published: March 2022

Background.
Although type 1 diabetes (T1D) represents one of the most common chronic diseases in pediatric age, few studies on the epidemiology of T1D exist globally and the exact prevalence and incidence rates of the disease are unknown. In many countries, including Italy, national registries are missing.
Methods.
This study aims to assess T1D incidence in the pediatric population of the Calabria region (southern Italy) in the period 2019–2021. The secondary objective was to describe the main demographical, clinical and immunological features of incident cases. Case ascertainment and all clinical data were assessed by retrospectively reviewing the electronic medical records of children and adolescents diagnosed with diabetes at any Pediatric Diabetes Center belonging to the Rete Diabetologica Calabrese (Calabria Region Diabetes Network), from January 2019 to December 2021. The incidence of T1D was estimated for the entire region and was stratified according to age group (0–4 years, 5–9 years, and 10–14 years) and gender. Standardized incidence ratios for each province in the region were also calculated.
Results.
The crude incidence of T1D was 20.6/100,000 person/years. Incidence rates were higher among females and children aged 5–9 years. The crude incidence of T1D was higher in the province of Reggio Calabria (26.5/100,000 person-years). The provinces of Crotone, Catanzaro, and Vibo Valentia showed significantly lower standardized incidence ratios. The annual incidence in the region progressively increased by 43% during the study period.
Conclusions.
Our study revealed a relatively high incidence in the Calabria region. The marked increasing incidence trend over the past two years could be related to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but further long-scale population-based studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Assessment of Mutations on RBD in the Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2 Alpha, Delta and Omicron Variants
Authors: Costa Clauber Henrique Souza , Freitas Camila Auad Beltrão , Alves Cláudio Nahum , Lameira Jerônimo
Published: March 2022

The severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus 2 (CoV-2) variant Omicron spread more rapid than the other variants of SARS-CoV-2 virus. Mutations on the spike (S) protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) are critical for the antibody resistance and infectivity of the SARS-CoV-2 variants. In this study, we have used accelerated molecular dynamics (aMD) simulations and free energy calculations to present a systematic analysis of the affinity and conformational dynamics along with the interactions that drive the binding between Spike protein RBD and ACE2 receptor. We evaluate the impacts of the key mutation that occur in the RBDs Omicron and other variants in the binding with the human ACE2 receptor. The results shows that S protein Omicron have stronger binding to the ACE2 than other variants. The evaluation of the decomposition energy per residue shows the mutations N440K, T478K, Q493R and Q498R observed in Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 provided a stabilization effect for the interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 RBD and ACE2. Overall, the results demonstrate that faster spreading of SARS-CoV-2 omicron may be correlated with binding affinity of S protein RBD to ACE2 and mutations of uncharged residues to positively charged residues such as Lys and Arg in key positions in the RBD.
Effects of analgesic and antiemetic treatment for postoperative nocturnal sleep deprivation in patients with hemifacial spasm: A prospective preliminary study
Authors: Shen Yuan , Lu Wei , Qu Pei , Wang Ruizhi
Published: March 2022

Poor sleep combined with the stress of surgery negatively influences postoperative recovery. Thus far, information is quite limited regarding the sleep quality of patients with hemifacial spasm (HFS) after microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and causal factors of postoperative nocturnal sleep deprivation (PONSD) in patients with HFS after MVD surgery, and to assess the therapeutic effect of interventions targeted to the main causal factors. Thirty patients with HFS (control group) were interviewed. Data were collected on the self-reported night sleep quality and main causal factors of PONSD after MVD surgery. A separate intervention group of 18 patients with HFS received treatment after MVD surgery that was targeted to these causal factors, and the therapeutic effects were assessed. The main causes of PONSD for patients in the control group were pain, nausea, and emesis. An analgesic and antiemetic treatment reduced fragmented sleep, but also reduced effective sleep. For patients with HFS, the main causes of nocturnal sleep deprivation after MVD surgery were pain, nausea, and emesis, related to the effects of surgery. Analgesic and antiemetic treatment did not satisfactorily improve the quality of sleep for these patient.
Dental skill competitions: A strategy to improve the comprehensive learning competency of dental students measured by their self-rating
Authors: Zhu Kangqi , Feng Jianying , Zheng Pei
Published: March 2022

Objectives
Due to the limitation of access to clinical experience and the difficulty of promoting teaching methods, improving the comprehensive learning competency of dental students has become increasingly challenging. In this study, we evaluate the effect of dental skill competitions on students’ comprehensive competency.
Methods
Ninety fourth-year dental students at XXX University were recruited for this study: 26 students for 2016-17, 34 students for 2017-18 and 30 students for 2018-19. Students who volunteered to participate in competitions (participation group, PG) and students who did not participate in competitions (control group, CG) were asked to rate themselves, using questionnaires, on a comprehensive competency scale (including critical thinking, professional practice competency, professional theory competency, and learning motivation). There were 45 students in each group. Students were also asked to rank their mastery of the four competencies. The students’ final scores on theoretical and practical courses were also considered as reference items.
Results
A total of ninety responses were obtained (100% response rate). The PG was statistically significantly higher than the CG in critical thinking (p = 0.037), professional practical competency (p < 0.01), and learning motivation (p = 0.03). Their final theoretical and practical scores are consistent with the statistical results of the questionnaires. In the ranking of students' competency, at the beginning of the term, CG had the least proficiency in professional theoretical competency and PG, in critical thinking and professional practical competency. At the end of the term, learning enthusiasm, and critical thinking (for CG), professional theoretical competency (for PG) were at the bottom of the list.
Conclusions
Dental skill competitions can effectively improve students' critical thinking and professional operation competency and maintain students' enthusiasm for learning. The evaluation method adopted in this study also provides an indicator of teaching evaluation.
The influence of reduced graphene oxide on the Polyamide 6 nanocomposite characteristics
Authors: Sabet Maziyar , Hosseini Seyednooroldin
Published: March 2022

Polyamide 6 (PA6) nanocomposites with electrically and thermally conductive were formulated via melt processing of PA6 and different inclusion of reduced graphene oxide (RGO). These nanocomposites showed that the small percolation threshold and the perfect formation of conductive link form with 0.5 wt% and ̴3.0 wt% of RGO respectively. Crystallization examination confirmed that RGO enabled the crystallization of PA6 structure mostly through speeding up the formation of crystal nucleus, reaching a maximum and smallest of crystal grain extent with RGO inclusion up to 2.0 wt% that approved the generation of the most unflawed crystalline matrix. With the dynamic rheological testing, frequency-independence of G’ and abruptly decrease phase angle at the small-frequency area via RGO content of 2.0 wt% specify the alteration state from liquid-state to solid-state rheological performance, and validate the development of percolation link structure with RGO in the function of a crosslinking factor. The progress of fire-retardant characteristics of PA6 was attained due to the inclusion of RGO owing to the improver in the PA6 structure. Morphological research showed that RGO was spread consistently in the PA6 structure. From the outcomes of cone calorimetry outcomes, the flame-retardant characteristics of PA6 were promoted with the addition of RGO in the PA6 structure. These tests show substantial capacity for the bulk manufacture of electrically conductive polymer/RGO nanocomposites.
Characterizing the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant shedding and duration of RT-PCR and rapid antigen test positivity on vaccinated individuals.
Authors: Luna-Muschi Alessandra , Noguera Saidy , De Paula Anderson , Cortês Marina , Larocca Carolina , Mari Julia , Guimarâes Lara , Torres Pablo , Scaccia Nazareno , Villas-Boas Lucy , Silva Almir Da , Andrade Pâmela , Teixeira Juliana , De Oliveira Victor , Tozetto-Mendoza Tania , Mendes-Correa Maria Cássia , Levin Anna S. , Sabino Ester , Costa Silvia F.
Published: March 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant has demonstrated increased transmissibility and ability to escape natural and vaccine-induced immunity. We aimed to characterize the duration of Omicron’s shedding by comparing viral isolation to rapid antigen test (RAT) and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) positivity. Thus, we performed a cross-sectional study of 30 vaccinated individuals with mild COVID-19 to evaluate the ability to infect Vero cells at day 5, 7, 10 and 14 since symptoms onset. Viral growth was observed in 46% and 20% of respiratory samples at day 5 and 7, respectively, while all were negative from day 10. RAT showed 100% of sensitivity during the first 7 days of symptoms compared to viral isolation, being a better infectivity predictor than RT-PCR Ct values. In conclusion, immunocompetent vaccinated individuals with Omicron infection can still transmit the virus on the 7th day of symptoms. This data may impact decisions on end-isolation protocols for mild COVID-19.
Can Beetroot Extract Influence Cardiovascular And Autonomic Recovery From The Effort In Healthy Males? A Randomized Trial
Authors: Júnior Francisco W. de Sousa , Benjamim Cicero Jonas R. , Porto Andrey A. , Guerra Camila Venancia , de Figueiredo Maria Iris L. S. , Benjamim Cicera Josilânia , Rodrigues Guilherme da Silva , Rocha Elida Mara B. , Júnior Carlos Roberto Bueno , Cavalcante Taisy C. Ferro , Garner David M. , Valenti Vitor
Published: March 2022

Introduction: There is no evidence that beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) extract is advantageous for the recovery of cardiovascular parameters and the autonomic nervous system (ANS) after submaximal aerobic exercise. Objective: To evaluate the effect of beetroot extract supplementation on the recovery of cardiorespiratory and autonomic parameters after a submaximal aerobic exercise session. Methods: Sixteen healthy male adults performed a cross-over, randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial. Beetroot extract (600mg) or placebo (600mg) were ingested 90 minutes before evaluation in randomized days. We evaluated systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), pulse pressure (PP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and HR variability (HRV) indexes at Rest and during 60 minutes of recovery from submaximal aerobic exercise. Results: Beetroot extract ingestion accelerated HR, SBP, and MAP reduction after exercise and anticipated the return of vagal modulation of the heart following exercise via the HF (ms2) index. Conclusions: Beetroot extract was revealed to be effective for recovery of the cardiovascular and autonomic systems following submaximal aerobic exercise in healthy males.
Assessment of Aerobic Microbial Activity of Ash and Vegetable-Amended Digestate
Authors: Isagba Ebuwa S. , Ajieh Mike U. , Oshoma Cyprian E , Amenaghawon Andrew , Ogofure Abraham , Obatusin Victoria , Obuekwe Ifeyinwa , Tongo Isioma , Ihoeghian Newton , Edosa Valerie I.O. , Erhunmwunse Nosakhare , Brotons Alphonso Lag , Emokaro Christopher , Ezemonye Lawrence , Semple Kirk
Published: March 2022

Anaerobic digestion (AD) of organic wastes results in biogas and digestate production. The digestate from AD may fall short of vital nutrients required for an optimal plant growth due to feedstock quality. Thus, digestate amendment with biomass and aerobic metabolic activities becomes an essential process for nutrient enhancement. This study aimed to investigate the microbial quality of digestate amended with wood ash, and vegetable matter during treatment. Digestate from cattle rumen (CR), food waste (FW), fruit waste (FRW); and their combinations were obtained. The various digestates were amended with wood ash, vegetable matter and a blend of both. Amendment was carried out for a duration of 5 weeks and samples were analyzed weekly. Enumeration and identification of bacteria and fungi were carried on culture media. The rhizobacterial potential of the identified bacterial isolates was also investigated using standard procedures. The results showed high bacteria and fungal loading in the amended digestate from the first to the fourth week. Comparatively, cattle rumen and food waste digestate, amended with vegetable were highly significant with mean value of 0.8 and 0.6 respectively. The identified bacterial isolates, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella sp, Pseudomonas sp, Proteus sp, Enterobacter sp, Chromobacterium sp Bacillus spp. and Escherichia coli were found to be involved in solubilization of phosphate, nitrogen fixation, ammonia production and induction of indole acetic acid. Specifically, digestate amended with vegetable waste improved the soil nutrient compared to the wood ash in both bacterial and fungal load. Hence, digestate amendment is crucial for nutrient enhancement, increase in carbon level and overall, improves soil nutrient.
Strategies for doctor-patient information communication from the perspective of communication preference: a nationwide multi-center analysis in China
Authors: Zhang Yue , Shao Jianwen , Li Tianxi , Wang Jinfan , Tan Gangrui , Wang Mengting
Published: March 2022

Background: In recent years, China has witnessed a surge in medical disputes, mostly evoked by ineffective information communication between multiple parts, such as the media. Information communication is an important link in doctor-patient relationship. Few macroscopic, multi-dimensional, and large-sample studies about doctor-patient communication information have been conducted in China. The aim of this study was to investigate the demand for information communication among Chinese doctors and patients, and to explore associated factors.Methods: The questionnaire for this study was formed through literature and interviews. Based on a national survey conducted in 2016, this study included 2727 doctors and 1781 patients in 22 cities of China.Results: Our analysis showed that the respondents recognized the roles of the network and governments in doctor-patient information communication, and the medical staff had a stronger demand for information communication than patients. Furthermore, the medical stuff admitted the function of medical committees composed of experts and scholars, while the patients paid more trust to the media and consumer associations.Conclusion: Doctor-patient information communication is highly needed for doctors and patients in China. Governments, media, Internet, medical committees, consumer associations play critical roles in doctor-patient information communication.
Novel 3D-Flower Shaped KTaO3 Nanostructures: A Perovskite with Highly Efficient Photocatalytic and H2 Generation Ability
Authors: M Praveen B , N Sumedha H , M Shashank , Teixeira Sergio R. , G Nagaraju
Published: March 2022

Treatment of industrial wastewater is one of the biggest challenges that mankind is facing today to prevent environmental pollution and its associated adverse effects on human health. Environmentalists across the world have given a clarion call for dye degradation, wastewater treatment and their effective management in our surrounding habitats. Despite significant progress in the development of new water treatment technologies, new materials haven’t matured enough for large scale industrial applications. Hence, the development of new scalable and sustainable multifunctional materials having the potential to treat wastewater and generate energy is the need of the hour. In this direction, novel 3D-flower shaped KTaO3 (3D-F-KT) material has been synthesized using areca seed powder as a green fuel. This new material has been successfully applied for the treatment of industrial wastewater contaminated with Rose Bengal. The efficiency of the material was analysed using several parameters like catalytic loading, dye concentration, kinetic and scavenging experiments, photostability and recyclability. In addition, the material was subjected to optical studies and H2 generation, making it a highly versatile multifunctional material, exhibiting a degradation efficiency of 94% in a short span of 150 minutes and a photocatalytic H2 generation efficiency of 374 mmolg− 1 through water splitting. With an immense potential, KTaO3 presents itself as a multifunctional catalyst that can be scaled up for a variety of industrial applications ranging from wastewater treatment to energy generation and storage.
Enhance the Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells Through the Addition of Osteogenesis Peptide During Cell Type-based Periods
Authors: Song Yameng , Li Hongjiao , Feng Fang , Shi Jiamin , Li Jing , Wang Lu , Liao Lingzi , Xie Biyao , Ma Shengqin , Li Shengzhen , Zhang Yun , Liu Bin , Yang Yaling , Zhou Ping
Published: March 2022

Background: The in vitro osteogenic differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have been one of the hot topics in bone tissue engineering. Moreover, supplement of osteogenesis chemical compounds is commonly applied to improve the differentiation efficiency. However, the differentiation process of hPSCs is much more complex than adult stem cells, and the unknown effect of material addition at different stages hamper the establish of step-wise induction systems for these human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). Recently, a bone forming peptide-1 (BFP-1) that derived from bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) has confirmed its excellent performance in promoting the osteogenic induction of human stem cells mainly human mesenchymal stem cells. Methods: In this study, we cultured hESCs and hiPSCs in the osteogenic induction medium for 28 days, and added BFP-1 at varying weeks. After differentiation for varying days (0, 7, 14, 21 and 28), we investigated the expression of related gene/protein markers and the differentiation efficiency by RT-PCR, immunofluorescence and alizarin red staining assay. Moreover, the expression of marker genes relating to germ layers and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was investigated at day 7, aiming to study the impact of BFP1 peptide on the lineage differentiation and osteogenic induction process of hESCs and hiPSCs.Results: Biocompatible BFP1 peptide could remarkably promote the generation of mesoderm cells and mesenchymal-like cells from hiPSCs through the enhanced epithelial-mesenchymal transition, but the effect was not found in hESCs because of cell line difference. Moreover, peptide addition could apparently up-regulate the expression of marker gene/protein in hESCs, especially the differentiation efficiency was improved by determining the optimal treatment periods. Conclusions: Our work has a great value in improving the in vitro osteogenic differentiation efficiency of hPSCs by adding functional osteogenesis compounds at specific stages and promoting the fundamental and clinical applications of osteoblast like cells.
Bio-fabrication of bio-inspired silica nanomaterials from Bryophyllum pinnatum leaf for agricultural applications
Authors: Sankareswaran M , Periakaruppan Rajiv , Sasivarnam M. , Danaraj Jeyapragash , Dhanasekaran Sugapriya , Abomughaid Mosleh Mohammad
Published: March 2022

Green chemistry approach was employed to synthesize Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) using aqueous extract of Bryophyllum pinnatum leaf as capping agents. The physicochemical properties of formed nanoparticles were successfully completed through sophisticated characterization methods such as UV-Visible absorbance spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy, X-Ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscope, Energy Dispersive X-Ray, Zeta Potential Analysis and Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis. All the characterization results were indicating that the spherical morphology, amorphous nature with an average size of 24 nm of nanoparticles formed. FT-IR results highlighted the key bioactive compounds that could be responsible for capping and reduction to formation of SiNPs. As synthesized SiNPs shows excellent stability with negative zeta potential value − 32 mV. The biomolecules from B. pinnatum were successfully working for the formation of SiNPs with spherical shape. Moreover, to assess agricultural application of green synthesized SiNPs was carried out by seed germination assay on Vigna radiata. The seed germination assay confirms that the low concentration of SiNPs enhances the seed germination. Meanwhile, the higher concentration of the SiNPs inhibits the seed germination, shoot and root formation. SiNPs at optimum concentration could be used in the agriculture field as nano growth promoters.
dePression, ANxiety, and acaDEMIC Performance in COVID-19: Pandemic. A Cross-sectional Study.
Authors: Camacho Francisco Jose Barbosa , Limón Olaya Moramay Romero , Peña Juan Carlos Ibarrola , Mena Yolanda Lorelei Almanza , Belmontes Kevin Josue Pintor , López Veronica Alexandra Sánchez , Ciociano Jonathan Matias Chejfec , Ramírez Bertha Georgina Guzmán , Fernández José Héctor Sapién , Ruvalcaba Mario Jesús Guzmán , Hinojosa Rodrigo Nájar , Rodriguez Itzel Ochoa , Valadez Tania Abigail Cueto , Valadez Andrea Estefanía Cueto , Orozco Clotilde Fuentes , Flores Ana Olivia Cortés , Ackerman Roberto Carlos Miranda , Cardona Guillermo Alonso Cervantes , Guevara Gabino Cervantes , Ojeda Alejandro González
Published: March 2022

Depression and anxiety are common after months of social isolation, and they can have a negative impact on anyone's quality of life if they are not treated promptly and appropriately. The purpose of this study was to determine whether undergraduate and graduate students preferred classroom or online classes and to determine whether the existence of sadness or anxiety connected to the COVID-19 pandemic changed their view of their academic achievement. A cross-sectional design was used in this investigation. To determine the presence of mental health disorders in undergraduate and graduate students, we employed the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) depression screening scale and the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) anxiety screening scale. We examined whether these diseases changed students' perceptions of their academic success using the Academic Self-Concept Scale (ASCS). 610 students responded to the survey. When questioned about their preferred class type, 581 students (95.2 percent) said that they preferred classroom classes. The average score on the Academic Self-Concept Scale was 2.760.35. PHQ-9 mean scores were 11.946.90, while GAD-7 mean scores were 10.305.66. The intensity of depression and anxiety had a significant effect on Academic Self-Concept Scale scores (p0.001 and p0.05, respectively). The findings indicate that students in a typical circumstance do not face difficulty transitioning from classroom-based instruction to online delivery.
Surface feature and material removal in ultrasonic vibration assisted slot-milling of Ti–6Al–4V titanium alloy
Authors: Chang Baoqi , Yi Zhaoxi , Cao Xiaobing , Duan Ji-an
Published: March 2022

The continuous optimization of processing technology and evaluation methods is an important way to achieve high processing quality and processing efficiency for difficult-to-process materials. To solve the problem of frequent defects on the slot, the ultrasonic vibration assisted slot-milling (UVASM) technology was developed for processing titanium alloy. Simultaneously, comparative experiments were carried out between UVASM and conventional slot-milling (CSM), in terms of surface features of slot bottom and slot sidewall, cutting force, tool trajectory, chip morphology, and micro-hardness. The results show that uniform vibration micro-texture could significantly improve surface topography of slot bottom in UVASM, while numerous tool feed trajectories and observable machining defects detract from the surface quality in CSM. The UVASM can greatly reduce material spalling and edge breakage, thereby maintaining a smooth and regular edge profile of slot sidewall. The tool tips trajectories of two machining methods are highly corresponding to the machining textures of the slot sidewall surface. There is a high-frequency and small-amplitude force fluctuation signal on the axial force waveform in UVASM, which can reduce the instantaneous maximum milling force and milling force in the stable stage by 8.7% and 12.2%, respectively. The UVASM has a better chip breaking effect and surface anti-scratch effect and the UVASM can obtain higher surface micro-hardness and deeper plastic deformation layer than those of CSM. In summary, the multi-dimensional evaluation of slot processing status has been completed and the processing quality of the slot has been improved.
Identify the regulatory network of LncRNA HAR1A in neurological development by RNA-Sequencing and bioinformatics analysis.
Authors: Zhang Luting , Lin Sheng Mou , Li Nan , Huang Kailing , Shen ShuHan , Zheng Zhouxia , Shi Xiaoshun , Chen Allen , Sun Jimei , Kong JingYin , Chen Min
Published: March 2022

Background: LncRNA HAR1A, which is explicitly expressed in Cajal-Retzius neurons (CRs), has been reported to be related to the development of the human brain. As one of the human accelerated regions (HARs) gene, it plays an important role in central neural evolution. Dysregulation of lncRNA HAR1A was associated with many central nervous system diseases. Methods:We cloned human gene HAR1A into the EF-1α promoter vector to make the transgenic mice. To observe the changes in memory and cognitive ability of mice, we conducted the Morris water maze (MWM) test and step-down passive avoidance test. RNA-seq analysis was performed to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of the experiment and control group. Systematic bioinformatic analysis was used to confirm the pathway and function that the DEGs enriched in. 523 human gene expression datasets were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) for Co-expression analysis. Through Co-expression analysis, we obtained the Protein-Protein Interactions Network (PPI-Net) and enrichment pathways of LncRNA HAR1A's co-expression genes in human. Results:The memory and cognitive ability of the transgene mice were significantly improved. Results of GO analysis showed that cerebral cortex development is the most significant function related to HAR1A in brain development. DEGs enriched in this function included Lhx2, Emx2, Foxg1, Nr2e1, Emx1. They all play an important role in the regulation of CRs' function. "Cellular response to calcium ion" exhibited the highest rich factor in the Gene Ontology (GO) analysis. Core genes in the PPI-Net were SNAP25, GRIN1, SYN1, DLG4, CAMK2A. SNAP25, SYN1 relate to synaptic function. GRIN1, DLG4 and CAMK2A relate to synapse formation. GO and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis of DEGs and HAR1A 's Co-expressed genes in 523 human gene expression datasets show that synapse, axon guidance, synaptic signaling and ligand-receptor interaction are significant.Conclusions:Overexpress HAR1A will improve the memory and cognitive ability of the transgene mice. The possible mechanism is HAR1A affects brain development by regulating CRs' function. Moreover, HAR1A may be involved in ligand-receptor interaction, Axon guidance and synapse formation, which are important for brain development and evolution. Cellular response to calcium may play an important role in those process.
Appearance, microstructure and bioactive components of Bletilla striata tuber as affected by different drying methods
Authors: Zhang Man , Li Lihong , Han Tingting , Wang Jie , Fang Hailing , Lin Ding
Published: March 2022

Bletilla striata tuber is widely used as healthy food and herbal medicine for its hemostasis, anti-ulcer, promoting wound healing, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and immune regulation functions. Drying method will affect the qualities of B. striata tuber including appearance and more importantly the content of bioactive components, which play decisive roles of the medical and tonic functions. To investigate the effects of drying method on the qualities of B. striata tuber, samples were treated with five drying methods containing hot-air drying (HD), infrared drying (ID), microwave drying (MD), vacuum drying (VD), and freeze drying (FD) in this study. After drying, samples were evaluated for their appearances, microstructures and the contents of bioactive components. Results showed that FD-dried samples kept most of the appearances and microstructures of fresh B. striata tuber. Samples treated with other methods were deformed and discolored to various degree. The contents of bioactive components containing B. striata polysaccharides (BSP), phenols and militarine were disproportionately influenced by different drying methods, which had been discussed in detail in the article. The research results will provide useful suggestion for production, development and further research of B. striata.
Is There any Role for Autophagy in Progression of Liver Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients on Antiviral Treatment?
Authors: Lankarani Kamran B. , Sadidoost Atefeh , Fattahi Mohammadreza , Fard Saeid Amirzadeh , Mokarram Pooneh
Published: March 2022

IntroductionDespite antiviral treatment, there are patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) who progress to cirrhosis. Enhancement of autophagy has been implicated in the proliferation of hepatitis B in hepatocytes. This study was designed to evaluate the possible role of autophagy in the progression of liver fibrosis in patients on antiviral therapies and fully suppressed viral replication .MethodsPatients on anti-hepatitis B nucleotide treatments for at least two years and who were not cirrhotic at baseline but later developed cirrhosis were identified. For the control group, patients who were on the nucleotide regimens and did not have cirrhosis at baseline and on follow-up were randomly selected from our registry. Serum Beclin-1 and LC3 measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent tests were compared between two groups.ResultsBeclin-1 level was higher in those with cirrhosis, but no statistical difference was seen for the level of LC3.ConclusionAutophagy may have a role in progression to cirrhosis in patients with CHB. Future prospective larger studies are required to find the effect of blockage of autophagy on liver disease progression in this group.
Diabetic microenvironment preconditioning of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells enhances their anti-diabetic, anti-long-term complications, and anti-inflammatory effects in type 2 diabetic rats
Authors: Su Wanlu , YU Songyan , Yin Yaqi , Li Bing , Xue Jing , Wang Jie , Gu Yulin , Zhang Haixia , Lyu Zhaohui , MU Yiming , Cheng Yu
Published: March 2022

Background
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exert anti-diabetic effects and improve long-term complications via secretory effects that regulate macrophage polarisation and attenuate inflammation. Enhancing the efficacy of MSCs needs to be explored further. The in vitro culture microenvironment influences the secretory profile of MSCs. Therefore, we hypothesised that a diabetic microenvironment would promote the secretion of cytokines responsible for macrophage polarisation, further attenuating systemic inflammation and enhancing the effects of MSCs on type 2 diabetes (T2D) and long-term diabetic complications.
Methods
Preconditioned adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (pre-ADSCs) were obtained after co-cultivating ADSCs in a diabetic metabolic environment (including high sugar, advanced glycation end-product, and lipopolysaccharides). The regulatory effects of pre-ADSCs on macrophages were observed in vitro. A T2D rat model was induced with a high-fat diet for 32 weeks combined with an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into four groups: normal group, diabetes without treatment group (PBS), ADSC treatment group, and pre-ADSC treatment group. ADSCs and pre-ADSCs were intravenously administered weekly to SD rats for 6 months, and then glucose homeostasis and long-term diabetic complications were evaluated in each group.
Results
The secretion of cytokines related to M2 macrophage polarisation (IL-6, MCP-1, etc.) was increased in the pre-ADSC group in the in vitro model. Pre-ADSC treatment significantly maintained blood glucose homeostasis, reduced insulin resistance, promoted islet regeneration, and ameliorated the complications related to diabetes in rats (chronic kidney disease, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, lung fibrosis, and cataract) compared to the ADSC group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the number of anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage phenotypes was enhanced in tissues following pre-ADSC injections. Moreover, the expression of pro-inflammatory genes (iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β) was reduced whereas that of anti-inflammatory genes (Arg1, CD206, and Il-10) was increased after cultivation with pre-ADSCs.
Conclusion
Diabetic microenvironment-preconditioned ADSCs effectively strengthen the capacity against inflammation and modulate the progress of long-term T2D complications.
Ulcerative Colitis And Periodontitis – A Cross Sectional Study From A Norwegian Cohort Diagnosed With Ulcerative Colitis For More Than 10 Years
Authors: Haugbo Helena. O. , Klepp Pasquale , Verket Anders
Published: March 2022

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes the major diseases Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). IBD is understood to be an inflammatory systemic disorder that may have an impact on periodontal disease through shared inflammatory mechanisms. The two subtypes of IBD are often described together although they differ with regards to affected sites in the gastrointestinal tract, histology and oral manifestations. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of periodontitis in a cohort of UC according to the classification scheme in periodontology. The secondary aim was to assess a potential correlation of periodontal status with UC disease parameters, years with UC diagnosis and oral health related quality of life. Method: In a cross-sectional study a cohort from a community hospital in Norway with confirmed ulcerative colitis diagnosis for more than 10 years was comprehensively diagnosed according to the new classification of periodontitis. Periodontal parameters, oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL) (OHIP-14), demographic data were collected. Previous UC data including colon activity index (CAI), Mayo score and years of UC diagnosis was used to correlate with the periodontal status.Results: A total of 50 of 63 invited patients participated. According to the new classification scheme on periodontitis, 74% of the patients presented periodontitis. No correlation was found between periodontitis (stage, grade, BoP or PPD>6mm) and CAI, Mayo score, or years with UC diagnosis. The OHIP-14 scores reported were in line with that of a normal population.Conclusions: Localized stage III periodontitis grade B was the most prevalent periodontal diagnosis. No correlation between periodontal disease and previous UC disease markers or years with UC diagnosis was found. In this population of subjects with well-treated UC, both the prevalence of periodontitis and OHRQoL were in line with that of the general population.