bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Initiating a district-based public–private mix to overcome tuberculosis missing cases in Indonesia: readiness to engage.
Authors: Sunjaya Deni Kurniadi , Paskaria Cindra , Herawati Dewi Marhaeni Diah , Pramayanti Meisera , Riani Rini , Parwati Ida
Published: February 2021

Background: District-based public–private mix (DPPM) is a variant of a relatively new PPM strategy of addressing missing cases in the tuberculosis (TB) care cascade in Indonesia. This research aims to analyze the readiness stakeholders' engagement in the context of initiating the implementation of DPPM.Methods: The research design was sequential exploratory mixed methods. A qualitative study in the first stage was carried out through participant observation, in-depth interviews and study documents. Data were analyzed through coding, categorizing, pattern matching and theorizing. The second stage was a survey conducted using instruments built in stage I. Data were analyzed using Rasch modeling and logistic regression.Results: District TB case detection rates (CDRs) has improved from 35% (2018) to 104% (2019). The contribution of private hospitals has increased considerably. However, there were none or minimal from the private primary healthcare facilities. The substantive theory generated indicates that awareness and concern of the TB problem, TB program comprehension and involvement, and institutional support are behind the readiness of private facilities to engage the TB program (the readiness to engage). The measurement results indicate the significant correlation of all dimensions on readiness to engage. Concern of the TB problem and institutional support are variables that influence readiness to engage (p < 0.05).Conclusions: Engaging private and public facility stakeholders is a challenge for local government. Intervention is through a personalized approach and encourages institutional support of health facilities for the TB program. Private sector engagement is a process that must be managed and not allowed to naturally happen.
Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis Provides Insight Into Carpel Petaloid in Lotus (Nelumbo Nucifera)
Authors: Lin Zhongyuan , Cao Dingding , Damaris Rebecca Njeri , Yang Pingfang
Published: February 2021

Background: Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is a famous flower with high ornamental value. Flower color and flower morphology are two main factors for flower lotus breeding. Petaloid is a universal phenomenon in lotus flowers. However, the genetic regulation of floral organ petaloid in lotus still remains unclear. Results: In this study, the transcriptomic analysis was performed among five organs, including petal, stamen petaloid, stamen, carpel petaloid, and carpel in lotus. 812 annotated DEGs related to carpel petaloid were identified. Our study showed that DNA methylation may be involved in regulating carpel petaloid. To identify the patterns of gene expression in the petaloid process using WGCNA analysis, 37 candidate genes were found to be related to carpel petaloid. Additionally, one floral homeotic gene encoded by MADS box transcription factor, AGAMOUS (AG), was identified as the candidate gene for petaloid in lotus. Meanwhile, a predicted labile boundary in floral organs of N. nucifera was hypothesized. Conclusions: In summary, the above results explored the candidate genes related to carpel petaloid, setting a theoretical basis for the molecular regulation of petaloid phenotype.
Inhibition of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells in rats with hepatic fibrosis by injection of VEGF 165 via the inferior vena cava
Authors: Sun Zhigang , Dong Tianyi , Zhang Zhun , Wang Tiantian , Zhang Chenyu , Tian Xingsong , Xu Hao
Published: February 2021

Background Although VEGF can maintain the normal phenotype of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), it has also been reported that VEGF exacerbates cirrhosis. The role of VEGF in the progression and recovery of cirrhosis has still remained controversial.Methods We established a cirrhotic rat model by thioacetamide that was used as drinking water; besides, 0, 1, 2, and 4 μg VEGF165 were then continuously injected into the rats. The serum level of hyaluronic acid was measured by ELISA at 0, 1, and 4 weeks, separately. Serum levels of ALT, AST, direct bilirubin, indirect bilirubin, and ALB were detected by an automatic biochemical analyzer. In addition, the levels of VEGF165, CD44, MMP9, MMP2, HIF-1α, and endothelin were detected by Western blotting. The expression level of CD44 in LSECs was detected by immunohistochemistry. Changes of fenestrations of LSECs and basement membranes of blood vessels were observed by transmission electron microscopy. Results With the increase of dosage and duration of VEGF treatment, the levels of liver function markers in the serum, the levels of CD44, HIF-1α, hydroxyproline and endothelin were significantly improved. With determination of the serum level of hydroxyproline in the blood, it was disclosed that the mentioned level was markedly decreased. In the Sirius Red staining, the stained red area was gradually reduced. Images captured by transmission electron microscopy also confirmed that the ultrastructure of LSECs tended to be normal.Conclusion VEGF165 can accelerate the resolution of liver fibrosis by promoting fenestration structure formation in LSECs, as well as promoting material exchange between sinusoids and hepatocytes. Our findings may provide a new insight for the study of the role of VEGF in liver fibrosis.
Bioaccumulation and phytotoxicity of ZnO nanoparticles in soil-grown Brassica chinensis and potential risks
Authors: Shen Meimei , Liu Weitao , Zeb Aurang , Lian Jiapan , Hu Xiji , Wu Jiani
Published: February 2021

A pot-culture experiment was carried out to explore the phytotoxicity and accumulation of ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in pakchoi (Brassica chinensis), as well as its potential risk. Zn was mainly accumulated in the shoots of pakchoi and showed the order of cell wall fraction > soluble fraction > organelles fraction. Endosomes were observed in roots cell by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and it is proving that endocytosis is a possible way for NPs to enter the cells. The results showed that higher concentration of ZnO NPs treatments resulted in an increase in the content of photosynthetic pigments and malondialdehyde (MDA), Catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activity, while the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and guaiacol peroxidase (G-POD) decreased significantly compared with the control. These changes suggest that the mechanism of ZnO NPs phytotoxicity may induce strongly oxidative stress and damage biomembrane. Generally, ZnO NPs had a similar impact on the growth and absorption of Zn in pakchoi with Zn2+. Simultaneously, the treatment of ZnO NPs affected the nutritional quality and food safety of pakchoi at high concentration.
Genetic Characteristics of Systematic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and The Bioinformatics Basis for Treatment
Authors: Liu Wenping , Wen Dawei , Liu Ziyi , Wang Kunyu , Wang Jibo
Published: February 2021

Objective

Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (sJIA) is a distinctive subtype of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). The pathogenesis of sJIA is still unclear with the treatment options limited. Although previous bioinformatics analyses have identified some genetic factors underlying sJIA, these studies were mostly single center with a small sample size and the results were often inconsistent. Herein, we combined two datasets of GSE20307 and GSE21521 and select the matrix of patients diagnosed as sJIA in it for further analysis.
Methods

The GSE20307 and GSE21521 matrixs downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) were analyzed using online-tool GEO2R, Venny, Metascape, STRING, and Cytoscape to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs), enrichment pathways, protein-protein interaction (PPI), main Module and hub genes between sJIA individuals and healthy controls.
Results

A total of 289 overlapping genes (consisting of 41 downregulated genes and 248 upregulated genes) were identified. Hub genes were primarily related to erythropoiesis. And the KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) analysis of overlapping DEGs were maily involved in Malaria and non-small cell lung cancer. Besides, DEGs in main module were involved in ubiquitin mediated proteolysis.
Conclusions

our study suggests that the erythropoiesis signature indeed exists in sJIA similar to previous reports. And combining previous research and our results, we provide a basis for the application of proteasome inhibitors, hydroxychloroquine and kinase inhibitors in patients with sJIA from the perspective of bioinformatics.
Designing a new multi epitope-based vaccine against COVID-19 disease: an immunoinformatic study based on reverse vaccinology approach
Authors: Nemati Afshin Samimi , Tafrihi Majid , Sheikhi Fatemeh , Tabari Abolfazl Rostamian , Haditabar Amirhossein
Published: February 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has currently caused a significant pandemic among worldwide populations. The transmission speed and the high rate of mortality caused by the disease necessitate studies for the rapid designing and effective vaccine production. The purpose of this study is to predict and design a novel multi-epitope vaccine against the SARS-CoV-2 virus using bioinformatics approaches. Coronavirus envelope proteins, ORF7b, ORF8, ORF10, and NSP9 were selected as targets for epitope mapping using IEDB and BepiPred 2.0 Servers. Also, molecular docking studies were performed to determine the candidate vaccine's affinity to TLR3, TLR4, MHC I, and MHC II molecules. Thirteen epitopes were selected to construct the multi-epitope vaccine. We found that the constructed peptide has valuable antigenicity, stability, and appropriate half-life. The Ramachandran plot approved the quality of the predicted model after the refinement process. Molecular docking investigations revealed that antibody-mode in the Cluspro 2.0 server showed the lowest binding energy for MHCI, MHCII, TLR3, and TLR4. This study confirmed that the designed vaccine has a good antigenicity and stability and could be a proper vaccine candidate against the COVID-19 infectious disease though, in vitro and in vivo experiments are necessary to complete and confirm our results.
Surgical site infection after delayed sternal closure in neonates with congenital heart disease:Retrospective Case-control study.
Authors: Yang Yuzhong , Wang Jie , Cai Lina , Peng Wei , Mo Xuming
Published: February 2021

Objectives: To determine the incidence of surgical site infections (SSIs) in neonatal congenital heart disease patients undergoing delayed sternal closure (DSC) and evaluate risk factors for SSI.Methods: Hospital records of 483 consecutive neonates who underwent surgical intervention between January 2013 and December 2017 were reviewed, and perioperative variables were recorded. Results: We found that the risk of SSI was 87.5% when the body weight was less than 1500 g. When the operative age was between seven and 14 days, the probability of no SSI is about 93.9%. When the duration of the aortic cross-clamp was more than 60 min, the risk of SSI was 91.2%. The incidence rate without SSI was 96.6% when the duration of DSC was less than 24 hours. However, when the duration of DSC was more than 120 hours, the risk of SSI was 88.9% (p = 0.000). Conclusions: With the prolongation of aortic clamping duration, the probability of occurrence of SSI increased in neonatal CHD with DSC. The age at operation and body weight are closely related to the occurrence of SSI in neonatal CHD patients with DSC.
Medical Student Wellness in the United States During the COVID-19 Pandemic: a Nationwide Survey
Authors: Nikolis Louis , Wakim Andrea , Adams William , Bajaj Prempreet
Published: February 2021

Background: As United States (US) medical students suffer higher rates of depression and anxiety than the general population, medical student wellness has been studied in recent years. One definition describes wellness as having eight dimensions: Intellectual, emotional, physical, social, occupational, financial, environmental, and spiritual. As the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic poses unique challenges for medical students, we aimed to compare medical student wellness before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: An informal survey was created to assess the eight wellness dimensions and distributed via Survey Monkey to US allopathic and osteopathic medical students via email and social media. The survey was administered from March 29, 2020 to June 23, 2020. Univariable and multivariable linear mixed-effects models were used to estimate the change in students’ overall wellness using an 11-point scale ranging from 0 (least well) to 10 (most well). Generalized estimating equations were used to compare students’ responses to the eight dimensions before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.Results: On multivariable analysis, students reported a decline in their overall wellness during COVID-19 (Mdiff = -1.04; p < .001), with Asian respondents reporting almost no change in overall wellness (M = -0.69) compared to White respondents (M = -1.18; p = .049) and Black respondents (M = -1.78; p = .03). Students felt less supported and comfortable with their social (OR = 0.47) and daily (OR = 0.45) environments and expressed decreased satisfaction with their exercise (OR = 0.85), sense of purpose (OR = 0.33), and financial status (OR = 0.75). Students also expressed lower confidence (OR = 0.15) and satisfaction (OR = 0.11) with their medical education and increased anxiety (OR = 3.37) and depression (OR = 2.05).Conclusions: Medical students reported declines in overall wellness and individual wellness dimensions. These findings can be used to implement changes to improve medical student wellness.
Screening and Identification of Genes Affecting Grain Quality and Spikelet Fertility During High-Temperature Treatment in Grain Filling Stage of Rice
Authors: Park Jae-Ryoung , Kim Eun-Gyeong , Jang Yoon-Hee , Kim Kyung-Min
Published: February 2021

Background

Recent temperature increases due to rapid climate change have negatively affected rice yield and grain quality. Particularly, high temperatures during rice filling stage from the flowering stage reduce spikelet fertility, while interfering with sugar energy transport, and cause severe damage to grain quality by forming chalkiness grains. The effect of high-temperature on spikelet fertility and grain quality during grain filling stage was evaluated using a double haploid line derived from anther culture of F1 by crossing Cheongcheong and Nagdong cultivars. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping identifies candidate genes significantly associated with spikelet fertility and grain quality at high temperatures.
Results

Our analysis screened OsSFq3 that contributes to spikelet fertility and grain quality at high-temperature. OsSFq3 was fine-mapped in the region RM15749-RM15689 on chromosome 3, wherein four candidate genes related to the synthesis and decomposition of amylose, a starch component, were predicted. Four major candidate genes, including OsSFq3, and 10 different genes involved in the synthesis and decomposition of amylose and amylopectin, which are starch constituents, together with relative expression levels were analyzed. OsSFq3 was highly expressed during the initial stage of high-temperature treatment. It exhibited high homology with FLOURY ENDOSPERM 6 in Gramineae plants and is therefore expected to function similarly.
Conclusion

The QTL, major candidate genes, and OsSFq3 identified herein could be effectively used in breeding rice varieties to improve grain quality, while tolerating high temperatures, to cope with climate changes. Furthermore, linked markers can aid in marker-assisted selection of high-quality and -yield rice varieties tolerant to high temperatures.
Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index Predicts Prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma After Hepatectomy: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Kanno Hiroki , Goto Yuichi , Sasaki Shin , Fukutomi Shogo , Hisaka Toru , Fujita Fumihiko , Akagi Yoshito , Okuda Koji
Published: February 2021

The geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) is widely used for nutritional assessment in older inpatients and was recently reported to be associated with postoperative complications and cancer prognosis. We investigated the use of the GNRI to predict long-term outcomes in hepatocellular carcinoma of all etiologies after hepatectomy. 358 patients were reviewed after propensity score matching. We dichotomized the GNRI score into high GNRI (> 98: N = 179) and low GNRI (≤ 98: N = 179) and evaluated recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) between the two groups. Clinicopathological characteristics between the low- and high-GNRI groups were similar after propensity score matching except for the components of the GNRI score (body mass index and serum albumin level), Child–Pugh score (consisting serum albumin level), and preoperative alpha-fetoprotein level (p < .0001, p < .0001, p = 0.0060, and p = 0.0049, respectively). A high GNRI was associated with significantly better RFS and OS (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0055, respectively; log-rank test). Multivariate analysis revealed that GNRI is an independent prognostic factor of RFS and OS (low vs. high; HR, 1.8670; 95%CI, 1.4011–2.4880; p < .0001, HR, 1.7270; 95% CI, 1.1640–2.5623; p = 0.0066, respectively). The GNRI is an objective, inexpensive, and easily calculated assessment tool for nutritional status and can predict prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma after hepatectomy.
Machine Learning Screening of Bile Acid-Binding Peptides in APeptide Database Derived From Food Proteins
Authors: Imai Kento , Shimizu Kazunori , Honda Hiroyuki
Published: February 2021

In the present study, a new bioactive peptide screening method was developed using BIOPEP-UWM and machine learning. Training data was initially obtained using high-throughput techniques, and positive and negative datasets were generated. The predictive model was generated by calculating the explanatory variables of the peptides. To understand both site-specific and global characteristics, amino acid features (for site-specific characteristics), and peptide features (for global characteristics) were generated. The constructed models were applied to the peptide database generated using BIOPEP-UWM, and bioactivity was predicted to explore candidate bile acid-binding peptides. Using this strategy, seven novel bile acid-binding peptides (VFWM, QRIFW, RVWVQ, LIRYTK, NGDEPL, PTFTRKL, and KISQRYQ) were identified. Our novel screening method could be easily applied to industrial applications using whole edible proteins. The proposed approach would be useful for identifying bile acid-binding peptides, as well as other bioactive peptides, as long as a large amount of training data can be obtained.
Glucose Metabolic Disorder in Klinefelter Syndrome: A Retrospective Analysis in a Single Chinese Hospital and Literature Review
Authors: Yuan Tao , Liu Shixuan , Song Shuoning , Chen Shi , Wang Linjie , Fu Yong , Dong Yingyue , Tang Yan , Zhao Weigang
Published: February 2021

Background

We aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and islet β-cell function in patients with Klinefelter syndrome (KS) and hyperglycemia.
Methods

This is a retrospective study. There were 22 patients diagnosed of KS identified from electronic medical record system including 9 patients with hyperglycemia (THG-KS group). There were 5 hyperglycemic KS patients with oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) results (HG-KS group), other 5 subjects with hyperglycemia and 5 euglycemic subjects matched in body mass index were included as HG group and NGT group, respectively. Clinical data and laboratory examinations were collected. We further performed a systematic literature review of KS and hyperglycemia.
Results

We found KS patients developed abnormal glucose metabolism earlier in life than those without KS. There were 35.3% patients diagnosed of DM and 17.6% patients diagnosed of prediabetes. Among 10 patients had both fasting blood glucose and insulin levels drawn, there were 47.1% patients with KS and insulin resistance. The incidence of hypertension and dyslipidemia were higher in patients with hyperglycemia and KS than euglycemic KS patients. Comparing with HG group, the level of insulin sensitivity was lower in HG-KS group, while the value of HOMA-β (p = 0.030) was significantly increased which indicated higher insulin secretion level in HG-KS group.
Conclusions

KS patients with hyperglycemia are more likely to combine other metabolic diseases. Compared with hyperglycemic patients without KS, they present lower insulin sensitivity and higher insulin secretion.
Dynamic monitor on psychological problems of medical aid teams in the context of Corona Virus Disease 2019: a multi-stage and multi-factor quantitative study
Authors: Zhou Yanji , Li Chengyu , Zhang Xiyu , Xu Li , Miao Wenqing , You Dingyun , Li Ye
Published: February 2021

Background: In order to explore the psychological status and vulnerability characteristics of medical staff with the progress of the epidemic.Methods: This study investigated the prevalence of mental problems of 2748 medical staff in four stages. PHQ-9, GAD-7, SSS, Pittsburgh sleep quality index and PCL-C were used for the psychological evaluation, and univariate logistic standardized analysis and multivariate logistic regression for data analysis.Results: The prevalence of mental problems were observed statistically significant difference. In stage 1, mild anxiety and mild depression reached the highest value of 41.4% and 40.72% respectively. Between March 4 and March 17 that of mild depression rose from 16.07% to 26.7%, and between March 17 and March 26 the prevalence of mild anxiety increased from 17.28% to 20.02%. Female, unmarried, working in Wuhan are the risk factors of mental health of medical staff (P<0.05).Conclusion: The psychological status of the medical staff has changed dynamically. Stage 1, the latter period of Stage 2 and Stage 3 are the high-risk stages. Female,unmarried is the dangerous characteristics of psychological vulnerability.
Tripartite of Malnutrition: Co-existence of Underweight, Overweight and Micronutrient Deficiency Among Children in Kisumu County, Kenya
Authors: Sawe Caroline J. , Kogi-Makau W , Ettyang Grace A. K. , CO Kimamo
Published: February 2021

Background: Challenges facing Kenyan government include childhood underweight, overweight and micronutrient deficiencies. These forms of malnutrition have existed in several regions of the world with their consequences spreading to old age. A total of 11% of Kenyan children are underweight while 4% are overweight. Micronutrient deficiency affects 2 billion people worldwide with iron and Vitamin A Deficiency affecting 60% and 70% of children in Sub Saharan Africa respectively. Only 72% of Kenyan children consume diets rich in Vitamin A. This study assessed the status of underweight, overweight and micronutrient deficiency among children in Kisumu County, Kenya. Methods: Cross sectional study was used that recruited 384 children aged less than 2 years. Anthropometric measurements assessed nutritional status while food frequency questionnaire assessed nutrient intake of children. STATA V.14 analyzed data. Bivariate analysis linked outcome and independent variables while multinomial logistic regression assessed factors influencing malnutritional status of children. Results: A total of 23% of children were underweight while 30% were overweight. Only 10% consumed carbohydrate adequate diets while 31% consumed foods rich in iron. Mothers earning more than Ksh 3,000 had 60% higher risks of their children being underweight compared to those earning less than Ksh 2,999 per month while children living in permanent houses had 50% lower risks of being underweight compared to those living in temporary houses. Children aged between 19 and 24 months had 80% higher risks of being overweight compared to those aged below 6 months while those living in permanent houses had 40% lower risks of being overweight compared to those living in temporary houses. Those with inadequate carbohydrate and iron intake had 20% and 80% lower risks respectively of being overweight compared to those with adequate intake. Conclusion: In Kisumu county, 23% of children were underweight while 30% were overweight. Only 31% consumed diets rich in iron sources. Mothers’ income, type of housing and micronutrient intake were associated with nutritional status of children. Interventions and policies to target this early age as is window period of opportunity.
Association of Interleukin-18 genotypes (-607 C>A ) and (-137 G>C) with the hepatitis B virus disease progression to hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ali Taqveema , Saxena Roli , Rani Isha , Sharma Renuka , More Deepti , Ola Rajendra , Agarwal Stuti , Chawla Yogesh Kumar , Kaur Jyotdeep
Published: February 2021

Chronic infection with HBV has been reported to be associated with the development of HCC. The inflammation mounted by cytokine mediated immune system plays an important role in the pathogenesis of HBV associated HCC. IL-18 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine whose role in the development of HBV associated chronic to malignant disease state has not been much studied. The present study was conceived to determine the role of genetic polymorphisms in IL-18, serum levels of IL-18 and expression level of its signal transducers in the HBV disease progression. A total of 403 subjects were enrolled for this study including 102 healthy subjects and 301 patients with HBV infection in different diseased categories. Polymorphism was determined using PCR-RFLP. Genotypic distributions between the groups were compared using odd’s ratio and 95% CI were calculated to express the relative risk. Circulating IL-18 levels were determined by ELISA. Expression level of pSTAT1 and pNFƙB were determined by western blotting. In case of IL-18(-607C > A), the heterozygous genotype (CA) was found to be a protective factor while in case of IL-18(-137G > C) the heterozygous genotype (GC) acted as a risk factor for disease progression from HBV to HCC. Moreover, serum IL-18 levels were significantly increased during HBV disease progression to HCC as compared to controls. Also the levels of activated signal transducers (pSTAT1 and pNF-κB) of IL-18 in stimulated PBMCs were significantly increased during HBV to HCC disease progression. These findings suggest that IL-18 has the potential to act as a biomarker of HBV related disease progression to HCC.
Application of Latent Class Analysis in Assessing the Mental Health of Medical Students During the COVID-19 Epidemic
Authors: Liu Zhuang , Zhang Yue , Zhang Ran , Liu Rongxun , Liang Lijuan , Wang Yang , Wei Yange , Zhu Rongxin , Wang Fei
Published: February 2021

Background: The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global public health emergency that has caused worldwide concern. The mental health of medical students under the COVID-19 epidemic has attracted much attention. This study aims to identify subgroups of medical students based on mental health status and explore the influencing factors during the COVID-19 epidemic in China. Methods: A total of 29,663 medical students were recruited during the epidemic of COVID-19 in China. Latent class analysis of the mental health of medical students was performed using M-plus software to identify subtypes of medical students. The latent class subtypes were compared using the chi-square test. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine associations between identified classes and related factors. Results: In this study, three distinct subgroups were identified, namely, the high-risk group, the low-risk group and the normal group. Therefore, medical students can be divided into three latent classes, and the number of students in each class is 4325, 9321 and 16,017. The multinomial logistic regression results showed that compared with the normal group, the factors influencing mental health in the high-risk group were insomnia, perceived stress, family psychiatric disorders, fear of being infected, drinking, individual psychiatric disorders, sex, educational level and knowledge of COVID-19, according to the intensity of influence from high to low. Conclusions: Our findings suggested that latent class analysis can be used to categorize different medical students according to their mental health subgroup during the outbreak of COVID-19. The main factors influencing the high-risk group and low-risk group are basic demographic characteristics, disease history, COVID-19 related factors and behavioral lifestyle, among which insomnia and perceived stress have the greatest impact. School administrative departments could utilize more specific measures on the basis of different subgroups, and provide targeted measures.
An Unusual Phenotype in Dutch Patients With Oculocutaneous Albinism Type 4: Evident Hypopigmentation Without Other Ocular Deficits.
Authors: Kruijt Charlotte C , Schalij-Delfos Nicoline E , Wit Gerard C de , Florijn Ralph F , Genderen Maria M van
Published: February 2021

Purpose: To describe the phenotype of Dutch patients with oculocutaneous albinism type 4 (OCA4).Patients and Methods: We collected data on pigmentation (skin, hair, and eyes), visual acuity (VA), nystagmus, foveal hypoplasia, chiasmal misrouting, and molecular analyses of nine Dutch OCA4 patients from the Bartiméus Diagnostic Center for complex visual disorders.Results: All patients had severely reduced pigmentation of skin, hair, and eyes with iris transillumination over 360 degrees. Three unrelated OCA4 patients had normal VA, no nystagmus, no foveal hypoplasia, and no misrouting of the visual pathways. Six patients had poor visual acuity (0.6 to 1.0 logMAR), nystagmus, severe foveal hypoplasia and misrouting. We found two novel mutations in the SLC45A2 gene, c.310C>T; p.(Pro104Ser), and c.1368+3_1368+9del p.(?).Discussion: OCA4 patients of this Dutch cohort all had hypopigmentation of skin, hair, and iris translucency. However, patients were either severely affected with regard to visual acuity, foveal hypoplasia, and misrouting, or visually not affected at all. We describe for the first time OCA4 patients with an evident lack of pigmentation, but normal visual acuity, normal foveal development and absence of misrouting. This implies that absence of melanin does not invariably lead to foveal hypoplasia and abnormal routing of the visual pathways.
SIRT1 Activation Attenuates Microglia Mediated Synaptic Engulfment in Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction
Authors: Sun Yi , Wang Yuzhu , Ye Fan , Lin Dandan , Shi Hui , Zhang Yan , Wu Anshi , Wei Changwei
Published: February 2021

BackgroundPostoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a debilitating neurological complication in surgical patients. Current studies mainly focus on microglia activation, however, less is known about the mechanism underlying neuronal synaptic changes involved in microglia activation. Recent studies indicate that silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) plays critical roles in different neurological disorders, and is involved in microglia activation. Herein, we evaluated the effects of SIRT1 activation on POCD.MethodsExploratory laparotomy were employed on mice (12-14 month) under sevoflurane anesthesia to establish model of POCD. Transcriptional changes in hippocampus after anesthesia and surgery were evaluated by RNA sequencing. SIRT1 expression were verified by Western Blot. Mice were treated with SIRT1 agonist SRT1720 or vehicle after surgery. Changes in microglia morphology, microglial phagocytosis, as well as dystrophic neurites and dendritic spine density were determined. Cognitive functions were evaluated by Y maze and Morris water maze.ResultsSIRT1 expression levels were downregulated in anesthesia and surgery group. Anesthesia and surgery lead to microglia morphology alteration, enhanced synaptic engulfment, dendritic spine loss, and cognitive deficits in our mice model, all of which were alleviated by SRT1720 administration.ConclusionOur study unveils one of the roles of SIRT1 in POCD pathogenesis. SIRT1 activation may represent a therapeutic strategy for prevention and treatment of POCD.
ROS-Responsive Dimeric Prodrug-Based Nanomedicine Targeted Therapy for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Ma Jiachi , Chen Yuzhong , Liang Wanqing , Li Lei , Du Jun , Pan Chengwu , Zhang Chensong
Published: February 2021

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) remains a major public health problem. Ursolic acid (UA) is reported to be effective in inhibiting GC; however, its low solubility and poor biocompatibility have greatly hindered its clinical application. Results: Herein, an innovative ROS-sensitive UA dimeric prodrug is developed by coupling two UA molecules via a ROS-cleavable linkage, which can self-assemble into stable nanoparticles in the presence of surfactant. This new UA-based delivery system comprises the following major components: Ⅰ) dimeric prodrug inner core that can achieve high drug-loading (55%, w/w) and undergo rapid and selective conversion into intact drug molecules in response to ROS; Ⅱ) a polyethylene glycol (PEG) shell to improve colloid stability and extend blood circulation, and Ⅲ) surface-modified iRGD to increase tumor targeting. Conclusion: Enhancement of the antitumor effect of this delivery system was demonstrated against GC tumors in vitro and in vivo. This novel approach offers the potential for clinical applications of UA.
Associations of preoperative serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels with the prognosis of ovarian cancer
Authors: Lin Qingqing , Liu Wenchao , Xu Song , Sun Liping
Published: February 2021

Background
The effect of serum lipids on ovarian cancer is controversial. We conduct this study to evaluate the prognostic value of preoperative plasma lipid profile in patients with ovarian cancer.
Methods
The medical records of 156 epithelial ovarian cancer patients who underwent surgical resection in our department were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. Serum lipids profiles, including total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglyceride (TG), apolipoprotein A-Ⅰ (apoA-Ⅰ), apolipoprotein B (apoB) and clinicopathologic data were analyzed. Cox proportional hazards regression analyses and Kaplan-Meier method were performed to evaluate the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).
Results
Multivariable Cox regression analysis found that preoperative higher LDL-C level was significantly associated with worse OS (HR 2.088, 95% CI 1.052–4.147, p = 0.035), whereas higher HDL-C level showed significant association with better PFS (HR 0.491, 95% CI 0.247–0.975, p = 0.042). Further Kaplan–Meier survival analysis demonstrated that OS was longer for patients with low levels of LDL-C (< 2.76 mmol/L) compared to those with high levels of LDL-C (≥ 2.76 mmol/L) (P = 0.028), and PFS was better for patients with high levels of HDL-C (≥ 1.19 mmol/L) compared to those with low levels of HDL-C (< 1.19 mmol/L) (P = 0.001).
Conclusions
Preoperative HDL-C and LDL-C levels are significant predictors of clinical outcome in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer.
Circulating immunocytes and complements are correlated with severity of ischemic stroke
Authors: Zhang Ximeng , Huang Shicun , Xu Jialiang , Zhang Sheng , Lu Haifeng , Xiao Xinyi , Wang Yiqing , Xue Qun , Ni Jianqiang , Yang Yi
Published: February 2021

Background

Immune factors are found to be involved in the pathophysiological process of ischemic stroke. However, the clinical role of the immune system in stroke remains unclear. Our study was designed to investigate the correlation between immunocytes (T cell, B cell, NK cell), complements and stroke severity.
Methods

236 patients with first-ever ischemic stroke were included in our study and divided to mild, moderate and severe groups according to NHISS score at stroke onset. Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) was used to assess short-term prognosis 3 months after stroke. We also collected clinical data and test circulating T cells, CD8 + T cells, CD4 + T cells, B cells, NK cells, C3, C4, complement factor B (CFB) of each patient.
Results

We found NK cell(p = 0. 015), CFB (p = 0. 007), C3 (p = 0. 035) were significantly elevated in groups with higher NHISS score. CD4 + T cell (p = 0. 009), T cell (p = 0. 001) were decreased in groups with higher NHISS score. In multivariate logistic regression, CFB and C3 were independently associated with severity of stroke. CD4 + T cell, NK cell, T cell were independently associated with severe ischemic stroke. NK cell (p = 0.049), CFB (p = 0.035), C4 (p = 0.028) are were significantly higher in groups with higher mRS score. In binary analyses, CFB (p = 0.009, OR: 1.056, 95%CI: 1.014–1.099), C4 (p = 0.011, OR: 134.444, 95%CI: 3.115-5803.504) were independently associated with prognosis at 3 months after stroke adjusting onset.
Conclusions

Elevated circulating CFB was correlated with both severe symptom at stroke onset and worse prognosis. It indicates that CFB may be a predictor of stroke severity and prognosis. Reduced T cell counts, elevated C3 and NK cell were associated with severe symptom at stroke onset. C4 was associated with short-term prognosis.
Synthesis of Magnetic Ions-Doped QDs Synthesized via a Facial Aqueous Solution Method for Optical/MR Dual-Modality Imaging Applications
Authors: Gharghargani Shima , zare hakimeh , Shahedi Zahra , Fazaeli Yousef , Rahighi Reza
Published: February 2021

This research reports the preparation and examination of Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) Quantum Dots and doping CdTe QDs with Europium (Eu), Gadolinium (Gd), and Manganese (Mn) prepared in aqueous solution using TGA as a capping agent. Magnetic QDs (MQDs) are important agents for fluorescence (FL) /magnetic resonance (MR) dual-modal imaging due to their excellent optical and magnetic properties. Herein, the chemical bonds, structural, fluorescence, and magnetized properties of CdTe QDs and effect of Mn, Eu, and Gd ions doping on their properties were examined by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), and vibrating sample magnetometer measurements (VSM). Almost similar X-Ray patterns with the absence/presence of ions for all samples with cubic crystal structures were obtained which indicates that the introduction of ions into CdTe QDs could not alteration the cubic primary structure of CdTe. Monodisperse size distribution with seemingly-spherical shapes, and also, the estimated mean diameters about 3 and less than 3 nm of QDs Were obtained. The effect of X ions injection on the fluorescence and UV-Vis properties of the QDs were also investigated. Optical studies showed the decreases in bandgap with the heating time increases during synthesis, and they undergo red-shift. The CdTe nanocrystals with high PL quantum yields were achieved in more than 6 h of heating. Also, investigations have shown the quenching of fluorescence by the existence of ions in the CdTe QDs. And Also, all the ions doped QDs exhibited ferromagnetic behavior at room temperature by a vibrating sample magnetometer which confirmed the success of the presentation of ions into CdTe cubic crystal structure. They can have been employed as a suitable contrast agent successfully for biological applications such as FL/MR dual-modal imaging.
Structural, Optical and Electrical Properties of Cu doped ZnO Thin Films Grown by RF Magnetron Sputtering: Application to Solar Photocatalysis
Authors: Khalfallah Bilel , Riahi I. , Chaabouni F.
Published: February 2021

RF sputtered undoped and Cu doped ZnO (CZO) thin films were deposited on unheated glass substrates using a mixed Cu2O and ZnO powders target at different Cu concentrations of 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 wt.%. The effects of copper concentration on the structural, electrical, optical and photocatalytic properties of CZO films have been studied. From XRD and Raman spectroscopy studies, it was found that the deposited films were polycrystalline with a predominant hexagonal wurtzite structure along the c-axis perpendicular to the substrate surface. The presence of multiple interference fringes in the transmittance and reflectance spectra shows the good homogeneity of the films. All the films are highly transparent with transparency reaching 80% indicating the possibility to use these films as an optical window. The absorption tail gradually shifted towards a higher wavelength side, which resulted in the decrease of bandgap energy from 3.35 to 3.26 eV. All the sputtered films are highly conductive with a conductivity reaching 104 S.cm− 1.The effect of Cu-doping on the photocatalytic activity of ZnO thin films for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye was studied under sunlight irradiation and the results showed that the Cudoping provokes appreciable degradation of MB and reached a maximum for the 1 wt.% Cu doped ZnO film.
Three-Dimensional Scaffold, Light Emitting Diode (LED) And Melatonin Effects on Cell Proliferation and Testosterone Secretion in TM3 Leydig Cells
Authors: Alavi Badrossadat , Shojaei Mohammad , Haghpanah Tahereh , Mirzaei Vida , Esfahlani Mohsen Abedini , Jalalkamali Mahshid , Seyedi Fatemeh , Nematollahi-mahani Seyed Noureddin
Published: February 2021

Different effects of fibrin scaffold, green LED and melatonin on cell proliferation and differentiation have received extensive attentions. Testosterone, the most important sex hormone is secreted by Leydig cells to regulate spermatogenesis and many other phenomena in the body organs. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the proliferation of Leydig cells and their testosterone secretion under the influence of three-dimensional scaffold culture, green light irradiation and melatonin. The experimental groups, were TM3 cells incorporated in 3D scaffold culture, exposed to green light and also exposed to melatonin individually, in pairs and three factors together. Cell proliferation and testosterone secretion were measured after 72 hr. Cell cycle genes including PCNA, CYCLIND1, CDC2 and CDKN1B and, testosterone related genes; GATA4 and RORα were also examined. In general, three-dimensional scaffold increased Leydig cells proliferation, testosterone secretion and the expression of the related genes. On the other hand, melatonin decreased cell proliferation and testosterone synthesis. Green light did not significantly change the results but slightly decreased cell proliferation and testosterone synthesis. Combination of green light with melatonin significantly reduced the outcome while, light with scaffold increased the results. Application of light + scaffold + melatonin covered the decreasing effect of melatonin.
Different Zn Loading in Urea-Formaldehyde Influences the N Controlled Release by Structure Modification
Authors: Giroto Amanda S. , Valle Stella F. , Guimaraes Gelton G. F. , Jablonowski Nicolai D. , Ribeiro Caue , Mattoso Luiz Henrique C.
Published: February 2021

Nitrogen fertilization has been a critical factor for high crop productivity, where urea is currently the most used N source due to its high concentration and affordability. Nevertheless, urea fast solubilization leads to frequent losses and lower agronomic efficiency. The modification of urea structure by condensation with formaldehyde has been proposed to improve nutrient uptake by plants and to reduce environmental losses. Herein we show that the co-formulation with Zn strongly modifies the N release (in lab conditions) and, more important, the Zn source – ZnSO4 or ZnO – has a critical role. Urea-formaldehyde (UF) served as a matrix for the zinc sources, whose chemical characterizations revealed that Zn particles influenced the length of the polymeric chains' formation. Release tests in an aqueous medium showed that the UF matrix favors ZnO release and, on the other hand, delays ZnSO4 delivery. Soil incubation with the fertilizer composites proved the slow-release of N from UF, ideal for optimizing nutritional efficiency. Our results indicated that ZnO: UF system has beneficial effects for both nutrients, i.e., reduces N volatilization and increases Zn release.
Transcriptional Expression Changes During Compensatory Plasticity in the Central Nervous System of the Adult Cricket Gryllus Bimaculatus: I. Auditory System Plasticity in the Prothoracic Ganglia
Authors: Wang Felicia , Fisher Harrison , Morse Maeve , Ledwidge Lisa L. , O’Brien Jack , Kingston Sarah E . , Beckman Justin , Johnson Jasmine J. , Portillo Lyn S. Miranda , Musawi Tabarak N Al , Horch Hadley Wilson
Published: February 2021

Most adult organisms are limited in their capacity to recover from neurological damage. The auditory system of the Mediterranean field cricket, Gryllus bimaculatus, presents a compelling model for investigating neuroplasticity due to its unusual capabilities for structural reorganization into adulthood. Specifically, the dendrites of the central auditory neurons of the prothoracic ganglion sprout in response to the loss of auditory afferents. Deafferented auditory dendrites grow across the midline, a boundary they normally respect, and form functional synapses with the contralateral auditory afferents, restoring tuning-curve specificity. The molecular pathways underlying these changes are entirely unknown. Here, we used a multiple k-mer approach to re-assemble a previously reported prothoracic ganglion transcriptome that included ganglia collected one, three, and seven days after unilateral deafferentation in adult, male animals. We used EdgeR and DESeq2 to perform differential expression analysis and we examined Gene Ontologies to further understand the potential molecular basis of this compensatory anatomical plasticity. Enriched GO terms included those related to protein translation and degradation, enzymatic activity, and Toll signaling. Extracellular space GO terms were also enriched and included the upregulation of several protein yellow family members one day after deafferentation. Investigation of these regulated GO terms help to provide a broader understanding of the types of pathways that might be involved in this compensatory growth and can be used to design hypotheses around identified molecular mechanisms that may be involved in this unique example of adult structural plasticity.