bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Utilizing genetic code expansion to modify N-TIMP2 specificity towards MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-14
Authors: Hayun Hezi , Coban Matt , Bhagat Ashok Kumar , Ozer Eden , Alfonta Lital , Caulfield Thomas R. , Radisky Evette S. , Papo Niv 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) regulate the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components in biological processes. MMP activity is controlled by natural tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) that non-selectively inhibit the function of multiple MMPs via interaction with the MMPs' Zn2+-containing catalytic pocket. Recent studies suggest that TIMPs engineered to confer MMP specificity could be exploited for therapeutic purposes, but obtaining specific TIMP-2 inhibitors has proved to be challenging. Here, in an effort to improve MMP specificity, we incorporated the metal-binding non-canonical amino acids (NCAAs), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) and (8-hydroxyquinolin-3-yl)alanine (HqAla), into the MMP-inhibitory N-terminal domain of TIMP2 (N-TIMP2) at selected positions that interact with the catalytic Zn2+ ion (S2, S69, A70, L100) or with a structural Ca2+ ion (Y36). Evaluation of the inhibitory potency of the NCAA-containing variants towards MMP-2, MMP-9 and MMP-14 in vitro revealed that most showed a significant loss of inhibitory activity towards MMP-14, but not towards MMP-2 and MMP-9, resulting in increased specificity towards the latter proteases. Substitutions at S69 conferred the best improvement in selectivity for both L-DOPA and HqAla variants. Molecular modeling revealed how MMP-2 and MMP-9 are better able to accommodate the bulky NCAA substituents at the intermolecular interface with N-TIMP2. The models also showed that, rather than coordinating to Zn2+, the NCAA side chains formed stabilizing polar interactions at the intermolecular interface with MMP-2 and MMP-9. The findings illustrate how incorporation of NCAAs can be used to probe and exploit differential tolerance for substitution within closely related protein-protein complexes to achieve improved specificity.
Adenosine metabolism inhibits airway inflammation and remodeling in asthma model induced by Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: liu tingting , Wang Yue-li , Zhang Zhi , Jia Li-xin , Zhang Jing , Chen Zhi-hua , Shen Hua-hao , Piao Chun-mei , Du Jie 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background: Given that severe inflammatory reaction is an important manifestation of asthma, it would be helpful to understand the pathological mechanism of asthma to determine the endogenous anti-inflammatory events of asthma. Recent studies have found that energy metabolites in the body are related to some inflammatory diseases, but little is known about their role in asthma.
Method: In this study, an asthma model was established by intratracheal instillation of Aspergillus fumigatus extract in Ecto-5'-Nucleotidase (CD73) gene–knockout and wild-type mice. Multiple analyses from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were used to determine the levels of cytokines and chemokines. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect subcutaneous fibrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration. Finally, adenosine 5’-(α, β-methylene) diphosphate (APCP), a CD73 inhibitor, was pumped subcutaneously before Aspergillus attack to observe the infiltration of inflammatory cells and subcutaneous fibrosis to clarify its therapeutic effect.
Result: PAS staining showed that CD73 knockout inhibited pulmonary epithelial cell proliferation and bronchial fibrosis induced by Aspergillus extract. The genetic destruction of CD73 significantly reduced the production of Th2 cytokines, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-13, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5), eosinophil chemokine, neutrophil IL-17, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF). In addition, exogenous adenosine supplementation increased airway inflammation. Finally, the CD73 inhibitor APCP was administered to reduce inflammation and subcutaneous fibrosis.
Conclusion: Elevated adenosine metabolism plays an inflammatory role in asthma, and CD73 could be a potential therapeutic target for asthma.
Prediction of Oleic Acid Content in Brassica napus L. Seeds Based on Hyperspectral Parameters at Seedling Stage: A New Method for Rapidly Screening Germplasm with Different Oleic Acid Content at Early Growth Stage of Rapeseed
Authors: Chang Tao , Wang XiaoDan , Liao Li , Peng Guangjue , Chen Hu , Guan Chunyun , Guan Mei 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background:
Remote sensing prediction techniques are new methods to assist crop production and screen breeding materials, mainly to predict crop conditions. In rapeseed production and breeding, remote sensing can predict growth status and harvest quality through spectral reflection at seedling stage.
Results: We bulit a spectral early-prediction system (SEP) containing multiple feedback formulas and predicted the oleic acid content of rapeseeds at harvest stage through reverse validation. We established a recognition model for early prediction of oleic acid in range of view of 56-85% with a resolution of 1%. The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) between prediction result and ideal model below 1 was found for verification measurements.
Conclusion:
Besides other practical features such as nondestructive collection of material information, simple operation, and the ability to accurate prediction of oleic acid per plant, the SEP system is a promising tool for rapid screening of different oleic acid breeding materials, offering an easy setup to process in breeding work or field production.
Effect of gastrointestinal symptoms and skipping breakfast on anxiety and depression in quarantined Chinese college students during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross sectional survey
Authors: Qiao Tingting , Gao Dingwei , Lu Gaixia , Lv# Zhongwei , Yi Wanwan 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background: Strict quarantine is an effective measure to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, but it probably increases the risk of anxiety and depression. We aimed to evaluate the anxiety and depression among quarantined college students at school during the COVID-19 pandemic and investigate whether gastrointestinal discomfort related-factors and skipping breakfast lead to increased risk of anxiety and depression.
Methods: 384 quarantined college students in Shanghai China were recruited in this cross-sectional study from April 5th to May 29th, 2022. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were used to assess anxiety and depression, respectively.Results: The prevalence of anxiety and depression were 56.8% and 62.8%, respectively. Longer quarantine duration, higher education level, skipping breakfast, stomachache or abdominal pain, and nausea or dyspepsia were the risk factors for anxiety. Moreover, longer quarantine duration, being woman, skipping breakfast, stomachache or abdominal pain, and nausea or dyspepsia increased the risk of depression. Notably, regularly physical exercising and taking positive attitude towards COVID-19 can reduce the risk of anxiety and depression.
Conclusions: More attention should be paid to anxiety and depression of quarantined college students and universities should provide timely psychological monitoring and intervention services to mitigate the impact of negative emotions on students. And effectively relieving gastrointestinal symptoms, insisting on eat breakfast, regularly exercising, and taking a positive attitude towards to COVID-19 might contribute to preventing the anxiety and depression for those college students experiencing a long-term quarantine.
Time course study of optical coherence tomography angiography in patients with methanol-induced optic neuropathy
Authors: Jafarizadeh Ali , Homaie Mina , Abdollahi Mirsaeed , Niyousha Mohamad Reza 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Introduction:
In countries where alcoholic beverages are legally prohibited, methanol toxicity usually occurs due to ingesting homemade alcoholic drinks. The initial ophthalmologic symptoms of methanol toxicity typically appear 6–48 hours after ingestion, and the severity of symptoms varies widely from mild and painless decreased vision to no-light perception vision.
Methods
This prospective study examines 20 patients with acute methanol poisoning within 10 days of use. Patients underwent ocular examinations, BCVA (Best Corrected Visual Acuity) recording, and OCTA (Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography) of the macula and optic disc. BCVA measurement and imaging were repeated one month and three months after intoxication.
Results
There was a statistically significant reduction in superficial parafoveal vascular density (P-value = 0.026), inner retinal thickness (P-value = 0.022), RNFL (Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer) thickness (P-value = 0.031), and an increase in cup to disc ratio (P-value < 0.001), and central visual acuity (P-value = 0.002) in this time course. However, there was no statistically significant difference in FAZ (Foveal Avascular Zone) area (P-value = 0.309), FAZ perimeter (P-value = 0.504), FD-300 (Foveal density, vascular density within a 300µm wide region of the FAZ) (P-value = 0.541), superficial vascular density (P-value = 0.187), deep foveal vascular density (P-value = 0.889), deep parafoveal vascular density (P-value = 0.830), choroidal flow area (P-value = 0.464), total retinal thickness (P-value = 0.597), outer retinal thickness (P-value = 0.067), optic disc whole image vascular density (P-value = 0.146), vascular density inside the disc (P-value = 0.864), or peripapillary vascular density (P-value = 0.680) at different times.
Conclusion
Over time, methanol poisoning can cause changes in retinal layers thickness, vasculature, and optic nerve head. The most important changes include cupping of the optic nerve head, reduction in RNFL thickness, and inner retinal thickness.
Risk of developing chronic kidney disease in young-onset Type 2 diabetes in Korea: A nationwide population- based study
Authors: Lee Joonyub , Lee Seung-Hwan , Yoon Kun-Ho , Cho Jae Hyoung , Han Kyungdo , Yang Yeoree 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
We investigated the risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with young-onset Type 2 diabetes (YOD, diagnosed age <40 years). We enrolled 84,384 patients aged 20–64 who started anti-diabetic medication between 2010 and 2011 from the Korea National Health Insurance Sharing Service; patients with Type 1 diabetes or a history of CKD were excluded. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to adjust for YOD-distinct variables and compare the incidence of CKD between YOD and late-onset diabetes (LOD, diagnosed age≥40 years). During the median observation period of 5.16 years (interquartile range: 4.58–5.77 years), 1,480 out of 77,039 LOD patients and 34 out of 7,345 YOD patients developed CKD. Patients with YOD had distinct baseline characteristics compared with the patients with LOD. The odds ratio of developing CKD in patients with YOD over LOD was 1.70 (95% CI: 1.15–2.51) after adjusting clinically distinct variables. The increased CKD odds in YOD compared with LOD was greater in the non-smoking group (OR: 2.03, 95% CI: 1.26–3.26) than in the smoking group (OR: 1.49, 95% CI: 0.74–2.98, p=0.0393 for interaction). Among YOD patients, hypertension (34.76% vs. 64.71%, p=0.0003), dyslipidemia (46.87% vs. 73.53%, p=0.0019), and sulfonylurea use (35.54% vs. 52.94%, p=0.0345) were associated with CKD development.
YOD patients have a greater risk of developing CKD than LOD patients after adjusting clinically distinct variables.
Proficiency Testing Performance in Chemistry Department; a 10-year study of trends in benzoic acid in food
Authors: LI HUI LING 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Proficiency testing (PT) is considered an indicator to improve competency for laboratory quality management systems. The laboratories participating in PT maintain personnel competency, monitor the lab performance, and ensure the validity of the results. The chemistry department was started with 20 parameters with participation by its branch laboratories in 1995 and declared it as an interlaboratory comparison, then upgraded to PT after applying the procedure following ISO/IEC 17043. Over ten years of results started from 2012 to 2021, the chemistry department which covers headquarters and 10 branches achieved good performance. Only the year 2012 faced an outlier result from the Malacca branch and two questionable results from Bintulu and Sibu branches in 2016. Investigation of the outlier and questionable results were based on 4M (Manpower, Method, Machine, and Material). The relationship between the 4M is always mutually beneficial, lacking one will not guarantee high quality. Exploring these 4M provides the lab with a structured framework for root cause analysis by helping the lab to understand how each one may have contributed to a particular issue. The trends of the PT performance also be analysed to increase the quality system, as an example for the Sarawak branch Z-score data tends to be over 0 which all the points falling on the upper side, which shows that systematic error occurred; to improve the accuracy of the lab, the investigation needed. Thus, PT acted as a valuable tool for the laboratory to improve and to carry out the necessary investigations and corrective actions if any outlier results were obtained in the analysis.
Identification of stemness-related LncRNA signature for predicting the prognosis and therapy response in colorectal cancer
Authors: Ning Bobin , Zhu Ruibao , Xue Yonggan , Cao Yajun , Jia Huihui , Jia Boqing 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background: Cancer stem cells (CSC) carry out a vital responsibility throughout the entire progress of colorectal cancer (CRC), and fulfil an essential biological function. However, lncRNAs participate in regulating CRC stem cells (CCSCs) and correlate strongly with the patients' prognosis. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the CCRC-related lncRNAs in CRC.
Methods: We identified CCRCs-related lncRNAs through the Cell marker and TCGA databases. And the CCSC-related lncRNAs model was constructed by the differential, cox survival , and lasso regression analysis. Combining the GEO dataset, we determined the prognostic value by Kaplan-Meier analysis, univariate and multivariate cox survival analysis. Moreover, principal component analysis (PCA), clinical characterization, nomogram, gene mutation, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), immune microenvironment (TME), chemotherapy, intergroup differential gene, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis were conducted to analyze the risk model. Furthermore, the core genes in the sub-module were comprehensively characterized.
Results: In this research, abnormally expressed, prognostic and CSC-related lncRNAs were firstly identified. Through the lasso regression model, we obtained a robust risk signature consisting of 4 CCSC-related lncRNAs (ZEB1-AS1，LINC00174，FENDRR and ALMS1-IT1). Then, the risk model was confirmed applicable in both TCGA and GEO cohorts. Further verification, the signature can be verified as a independent prognostic factor for CRC. Based on the CCSC-related lncRNA model, the high- and low-risk groups exhibited different stemness statuses, including gene expression, mutation status, signaling pathways, TME and chemotherapy response. The HOX family and HOX4 were centrally located in the PPI interaction and had an influential contribution in CRC.
Conclusions: We established a 4 CCSC-related lncRNA signature with a promising prognosis. And the signature can appropriately estimate the gene mutation, TME, and chemotherapy outcomes for CRC patients. Furthermore, the CCSC-related lncRNAs and HOX4 can serve as noble biomarkers and promote the management of therapy clinically.
Prevalence and Predictors of Post-stroke Cognitive Impairment among Stroke Survivors in Uganda
Authors: Kaddumukasa Martin. N , Kaddumukasa Mark , Katabira Elly , Sewankambo Nelson , Namujju Lillian. D , Goldstein Larry. B 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background

Little is known about the characteristics and determinants of post-stroke cognitive impairments in low- and middle-income countries. The objective of this study was to determine the frequencies, patterns, and risk factors for cognitive impairment in a cross-sectional study of consecutive stroke patients cared for at Uganda’s Mulago Hospital, located in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

From August 2019 to July 2020, patients were enrolled a minimum of 3-months post-stroke hospital admission. We collected data on their demographics, vascular risk factors and clinical factors using a questionnaire, clinical examination findings, and test results. Independent predictor variables associated with cognitive impairment were ascertained. Stroke impairments, disability, and handicap were assessed using the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), Barthel Index (BI), and modified Rankin scale (mRS), respectively. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was used to assess participants’ cognitive function. Stepwise multiple logistic regression was used to identify variables independently associated with cognitive impairment.

Results

The overall mean MoCA score was 11.7-points (range 0.0–28.0-points) for 128 patients with available data of whom 66.4% were categorized as cognitively impaired (MoCA < 19-points). Increasing age (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.00-1.07; p = 0.026), low level of education (OR 3.23, 95% CI 1.25–8.33; p = 0.016), functional handicap (mRS 3–5; OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.28–2.63; p < 0.001) and high LDL cholesterol (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.14–6.56; p = 0.024) were independently associated with cognitive impairment.

Discussion

Further longitudinal, prospective studies are required to confirm these findings and identify strategies for reducing the risk of post-stroke cognitive impairment in this population.
Use of Mobile Technology to Identify Behavioral Mechanisms Linked to Mental Health Outcomes in Kenya: Protocol for Development and Validation of a Predictive Model
Authors: Njoroge Willie , Maina Rachel , Elena Frank , Atwoli Lukoye , Wu Zhenke , Ngugi Anthony , Sen Srijan , Wang Jian , Wong Stephen , Baker Jessica , Haus Eileen , Khakali Linda , Aballa Andrew , Orwa James , Nyongesa Moses , Merali Zul , Akbar Karim , Abubakar Amina 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Objective: This study proposes to identify and validate weighted sensor stream signatures that predict near-term risk of a major depressive episode and future mood among healthcare workers in Kenya.
Approach: The study will deploy a mobile app platform and use novel data science analytic approaches (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) to identifying predictors of mental health disorders among 500 randomly sampled healthcare workers from five healthcare facilities in Nairobi, Kenya.
Expectation: This study will lay the basis for creating agile and scalable systems for rapid diagnostics that could inform precise interventions for mitigating depression and ensure a healthy, resilient healthcare workforce to develop sustainable economic growth in Kenya, East Africa, and ultimately neighboring countries in sub-Saharan Africa. This protocol paper provides an opportunity to share the planned study implementation methods and approaches.
Conclusion: A mobile technology platform that is scalable and can be used to understand and improve mental health outcomes is of critical importance.
The strategies of faculty development based on their role and learning styles at Iranian Universities of Medical Sciences
Authors: Bazrafkan Leila , Ghasemi Sima , Shojaei Arash , Rakhshani Tayebeh , shokrpour nasrin 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to identify and explain the strategies of faculty development based on their role and learning styles at Iranian Universities of Medical Sciences.
Methods
We conducted a qualitative content analysis study in 2021 using purposive, snowball sampling, with a maximum variation of age and experience levels of faculty members. Twenty four participants were enrolled in this study (eighteen faculty members and six medical sciences students); data collection consisted of two phases of semi-structured interviews and a brainstorming group technique. Data were categorized into two themes and six related subthemes, based on their similarities and differences after frequent summarization.
Results
The data analysis yielded two themes and eight categories. The first theme was to explain competencies based on role and task with two sub-themes: Tasks and capabilities and Development and excellence of personal qualities. The second theme was the best strategies for empowering the teacher with four sub-themes, including problem-based learning, integration of methods, evaluation-based education, and scholarship in education (PIES), which explains the strategies that can support the development of teachers in medical sciences.
Conclusion
From the perspective of faculty members, the importance of some strategies in education and empowering the teachers’ professional competence dimensions should be emphasized. PIES could explain the practical strategies that can support the development of teachers in medical sciences.
Effects of probiotic supplementation on gastrointestinal motility, inflammation, motor and non-motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Park Jong Mi , Lee Sang Chul , Ham Chorom , Kim Yong Wook 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease. It is believed that “gut dysbiosis” can cause PD; therefore, whether probiotics can be used as adjuvants in the treatment of PD is being actively investigated. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of probiotic therapy in PD patients. PUBMED/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, Scopus, PsycINFO and Web of Science databases were searched till January 9, 2023. The meta-analysis used a random effects model and the effect size was calculated as mean difference or standardized mean difference. Ten studies with 760 participants were included in the final analysis. The meta-analysis revealed a significant improvement in gastrointestinal motility (standardized mean difference [95% confidence interval]) (0.78 [0.57-0.98]) and antioxidant capacity (1.73 [0.26 to 3.21]). Serum inflammatory markers (-8.64 [-16.05 to -1.23]), diabetes risk (-3.41 [-4.65 to -2.17]), Unified PD Rating Scale Part III (-4.12 [-7.81 to -0.43]), non-motor symptom (-5.55 [-8.30 to -2.80]), quality of life (-1.13 [-1.86 to -0.40]), anxiety scale (-2.21 [-3.41 to -1.00]) and depression scale (-1.53 [-1.99 to -1.07]) demonstrated a significant decrease. The Bristol stool scale, constipation and risk of dyslipidemia were not significantly improved. In a subgroup analysis, capsules further improved gastrointestinal motility than fermented milk. This review found that probiotic supplements may be suitable for increasing gastrointestinal motility, reducing inflammation, and improving motor and non-motor symptoms of PD. Further research is warranted to determine the mechanism of action of probiotics and the optimal treatment protocol.