bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-rider Ridesharing Stable Matching Optimization
Authors: Ke Hua , Li Haoyang
Published: August 2023

The rapid growth of private car ownership has led to significant issues such as traffic congestion and environmental pollution. Ridesharing has emerged as a promising solution to alleviate the negative impacts associated with private car usage. This paper focuses on the stability of ridesharing systems and establishes a single-driver multiple-rider ridesharing matching model. To solve this model, a filtering algorithm for the pre-matching set and a fast-solving algorithm for stable matching scheme are proposed. Furthermore, we introduce the concept of a subsidy distance upper limit into the ridesharing system. Remarkably, our findings indicate that with a limit of 0.1km, the distance saved generated by the subsidy amounts to 560.5% of the total subsidy. To validate our approach, we simulate ridesharing demand data using real taxi data, and design computational experiments to prove the computational efficiency of the filtering algorithm and fast-solving algorithm. The impact of various parameters on ridesharing systems is also explored.
A 12-month, longitudinal, intervention study examining a tablet protein substitute preparation in the management of tyrosinemia.
Authors: Daly Anne , Evans Sharon , Pinto Alex , Ashmore Catherine , MacDonald Anita
Published: August 2023

Protein substitutes (PS) without tyrosine (Tyr) and phenylalanine (Phe), are an essential source of synthetic protein in the treatment of tyrosinemia (HT). In the UK, the only available protein substitutes for HT are Tyr/ Phe free amino acid liquid or powders or formulations based on glycomacropeptide (CGMP). A tablet Tyr/ Phe free amino acid supplement (AAT) has now been introduced. The aim of this two-part prospective, longitudinal intervention study was to assess the efficacy, acceptability, and tolerance of AAT in children aged > 8 years with HTI. Part 1: was a 28-day acceptability/ tolerance study, part 2, was a 12-month extension study examining efficacy of AAT. Anthropometry and blood Tyr/ Phe were assessed. All subjects were taking NTBC [2-(2-nitro-4-triflourothybenzoyl) cyclohexane-1, 3-dione] with a Tyr restricted diet. Eight subjects with HTI were recruited 4 boys, and 4 girls with a median age of 14.3y (range 10.4–17.3); 3 were Caucasian and 5 of Pakistani origin. The median (range) protein equivalent from PS was 60g/d (50–60), natural protein 20g/d (15–30), and NTBC 30 mg/d (25–80). No subjects were taking Phe supplements. Five (63%) subjects completed part 1, with 4 taking all their PS requirements as AAT. Subjects reported AAT were tasteless and had no odour. No adverse gastrointestinal symptoms were recorded, with two reporting improvements in abdominal discomfort. At 12 months, 4 subjects had a non-significant decrease in blood Tyr/ Phe compared to the 12 months pre-treatment. Median blood Tyr (µmol/ L) pre-intervention was 500 (320–590); and at 12 months, 450 (290–530). Median blood Phe (µmol/L) pre-intervention was 40 (30–40); and at 12 months 30 (30–50). Median height z scores remained unchanged, but there was a small decrease in weight z score (pre-study weight − 0.1 (-1.4 to1.1), 12 m -0.3 (-1.4 to 1.3) and BMI (pre- study BMI 0.2 (-2 to 1.4), and 12m, -0.1 (-2.5 to 1.5)). Conclusion: AAT were useful for some adolescents with HTI who struggled with the taste and volume of conventional powdered and liquid PS.
Simultaneous Anton, Balint, Anosognosia, and Hemianopsia From Bilateral Ischemic Infarct: A Case Report
Authors: Nichols Cory , Merritt Mckenzie , Janda Paul , Vickers Aroucha
Published: August 2023

Background: Gerstmann syndrome, Balint Syndrome, Homonymous Hemianopsia, and Anosognosia are all well explicated parieto-occipital pathologies commonly, though not exclusively associated with cerebral infarct. These syndromes have been previously described in the literature as occurring as sequelae of neurodegenerative dementias. As far as can be determined, the simultaneous occurrence of all four syndromes due to cerebral infarctions have not yet been reported in the scientific literature.
Case Presentation: A 55-year-old man with hypertension, dyslipidemia, atrial fibrillation, and medical noncompliance was found in the parking lot of his workplace confused and brought to the emergency room for altered mental status. Upon neurological evaluation, he was found to have signs of Gerstmann Syndrome, Balint Syndrome, Homonymous Hemianopsia, and Anosognosia. Neuroimaging revealed bilateral parietal occipital strokes suspected to be provoked by atrial fibrillation in the setting of anticoagulation noncompliance.
Conclusion: The patient’s bilateral parieto-occipital infarcts presented with simultaneous Gerstmann Syndrome, Balint Syndrome, Homonymous Hemianopsia, and Anosognosia that mimicked an acute encephalopathic state. Though each syndrome has been documented in the medical literature in isolation and occasionally in conjunction, there have been no documented cases of simultaneous spontaneous development of all four due to nearly symmetric vascular infarcts. These syndromes can be subtle yet cause devastating co-morbidities. As such, the authors aim to emphasize the need to implement visuospatial testing, an element often bypassed, as part of the acute stroke pathway for patients who may be eligible for thrombolytic therapy.
Biochemical Outcome in Metastatic Prostate Cancer Patients Following Prostate-Directed Radiotherapy
Authors: Ayoub Heba Maged , Zamzam Maha Lotfy , Elsayed Fifi Mostafa , Hassanin Ihab Mohammed , Elsemary Eman Essam
Published: August 2023

Background
The role of cytoreductive local radiotherapy (RT) in metastatic prostate cancer has recently been established. This study aimed to evaluate the biochemical outcome of local RT in metastatic prostate cancer.
Methods
This randomized controlled phase II study conducted at the Clinical Oncology Department, Suez Canal University Hospital. Eligible participants were de-novo or metachronous metastatic prostate cancer patients with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0–2. Participants were randomized to receive either cytoreductive prostate-directed RT in addition to standard care or standard care alone. The conventional radiation schedule of 70 Gy/35 fractions or the hypofractionated schedule of 55 Gy/20 fractions were delivered. The primary endpoint was biochemical progression-free survival (BPFS), and secondary endpoints included clinical response, and overall survival (OS). Survival and post-hoc analyses were performed using Cox regression and the Kaplan-Meier method with the log-rank test.
Results
Between November 23, 2020, and November 21, 2022, 70 patients were enrolled in this study. Of them, 34 patients were assigned to the prostate radiotherapy group, and 29 patients were assigned to the control group. At a median follow-up of 12 months, the median BPFS has not been reached for the prostate radiotherapy group compared to 4.067 months for the control group (HR: 0.147, p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that the median BPFS was statistically significantly correlated with low-volume (95% CI, 0.004 to 0.262, p = 0·001) and hormonal-sensitive metastatic disease (95% CI, 0.010 to 0.192, p < 0·001). The median OS was 16.33 months for the prostate-radiotherapy group compared to 11.33 months for the control group (HR: 0.313, p = 0.003).
Conclusion
Prostate-directed RT improved BPFS and OS in metastatic prostate cancer patients, particularly in those with low volume and hormonal-sensitive disease.
Trial Registration:
This trial is registered on (27/4/2023) with pactr.samrc.ac.za, PACTR202305854600529, URL: https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=25510
Remimazolam sedation for spinal anaesthesia surgery and its effect on perioperative cognitive function in elderly patients: a multicentre, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Kang Jia-min , Li Yuan-jie , Zong Lin-yue , Xu Ying , Qiao Dan , Zhang Wei-wei , Zhou Qi , Li Yan , Han Tao , Zhang Yue-ming , Yin Li-jun , Xu Jin , Wang Shou-shi , Yuan Yuan , Li Qing , Niu Kai-jun , Zheng Yu-xin , Zhang Lin-lin , Li Yi-ze , Yu Yong-hao
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND
Remimazolam, a novel ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine, is a potential sedative for non-general anaesthesia surgery in the elderly. This study aimed to investigate the appropriate sedative dosage of remimazolam and its effects on perioperative cognitive function in elderly patients undergoing non-general anaesthesia surgery.
METHODS
This multicentre, placebo-controlled trial enrolled 330 elderly patients undergoing non-general anaesthesia procedures at eight centres in China from July 2021 to February 2022, with 238 ultimately completing the study. The primary endpoints were the dose of successful sedation with remimazolam and the changes in perioperative cognitive function. Adverse events were recorded to assess drug safety.
RESULTS
The induction dose of remimazolam for sedation in spinal anaesthesia in elderly patients was 5.38 mg (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.20 to 5.56), maintained at a rate of 0.223 mg·kg− 1·h− 1 (95% CI, 0.201 to 0.237) with no serious adverse effects. Compared with the saline group, there was no statistical difference in the Mini-Mental State Examination scores in the experimental group on Day2 morning (P : 0.886), Day2 afternoon (P : 0.864), and Day7 (P : 0.613), and no statistical difference in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores on Day2 morning (P : 0.687), Day2 afternoon (P : 0.827), and Day7 (P : 0.483).
CONCLUSIONS
Remimazolam besylate is an effective sedative drug during spinal anaesthesia in elderly patients, with a successful induction dose of 5.38 mg (95% CI, 5.20 to 5.56), maintained at a rate of 0.223 mg·kg− 1·h− 1 (95% CI, 0.201 to 0.237) and a good safety profile without altering the short-term postoperative cognitive function.
Impact of epidemic prevention measures on the incidence of HFMD during the COVID-19 epidemic period in Beijing
Authors: Zhao Hao , Dong Shuaibing , Wang Xiaoli , Yang Peng , Zhang Daitao , Wang Quanyi , Jia Lei , Huo Da
Published: August 2023

The non-pharmacological interventions during the COVID-19 epidemic period may also affected the incidence of other infectious diseases. This study used the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model to predict the theoretical incidence of hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) in Beijing in 2020, then used the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test to compare it with the actual value, in order to explore the impact of public health prevention measure on the incidence of HFMD during the COVID-19 epidemic period. Between January 2013 and December 2019, 210,101 cases of HFMD were reported in Beijing. The number of reported cases in Beijing in 2020 decreased by 92.7% compared to the average annual number of reported cases from 2013 to 2019. The optimal model (1,1,1) (1,1,1) 12 established in this study predicted the monthly incidence of HFMD in 2020, the model-fitting effect was good, the test results showing that there was a statistically significant difference between the predicted and actual number of HFMD cases in 2020. Epidemic prevention measures during the COVID-19 epidemic period had a great impact on the incidence of HFMD in Beijing.
ALDH1A1 confers resistance to RAF/MEK inhibitors in melanoma cells by maintaining stemness phenotype and activating PI3K/AKT signaling
Authors: Ciccone Valerio , Simonis Vittoria , Gaudio Cinzia Del , Cucini Claudio , Ziche Marina , Morbidelli Lucia , Donnini Sandra
Published: August 2023

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade is an intracellular signaling pathway involved in the regulation of proliferation and survival of melanoma cells. Several different mutations, involving BRAF or NRAS, exert an oncogenic effect by activating the MAPK pathway, resulting in a further increase in cellular proliferation. MEK inhibitor therapy in combination with a BRAF inhibitor is more effective and less toxic than treatment with a BRAF inhibitor alone, and has become the standard of care for tumors driven by BRAF or NRAS mutations. This study demonstrates that melanoma cells overexpressing aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A1 (ALDH1A1) displayed stem-like properties which was associated with resistance to vemurafenib and trametinib through the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling instead of MAPK axis. Inhibition of PI3K/AKT signaling rescued sensitivity to drugs. Consistently, pharmacological inhibition of ALDH1A1 activity downregulated the activation of AKT and enhanced responsiveness to vemurafenib and trametinib. We propose ALDH1A1 as a new potential target for treating MAPK inhibitor resistant melanoma.
The Prevalence of Developmental Defects of Enamel in People with Cystic Fibrosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: O’Leary Fiona , Coffey Niamh , Hayes Martina , Burke Francis , Harding Mairéad , Plant Barry
Published: August 2023

Background
Oral health impacts systemic health, individual well-being, and quality of life. It is important to identify both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors that may impact oral health at an individual and a population level, doing so may aid public health and policy development, and promote targeted patient treatment strategies. Developmental defects both quantitative and qualitative can negatively impact oral health. Affected individuals may be more susceptible to dental caries, hypersensitivity premature tooth wear, erosion, and poor aesthetics. As part of a wider study assessing oral health in adults with cystic fibrosis currently underway in Cork University Dental School and hospital, it was decided to conduct a systematic review of available literature to assess the prevalence of enamel defects in people with cystic fibrosis.
Keywords
Cystic Fibrosis, Developmental Defects of Enamel, Oral Health, Public Health, Policy, Prevention.
Aims
To critically evaluate the literature to determine if the prevalence of developmental defects of enamel is higher in people with cystic fibrosis.
Methods
Data Sources: A systematic review of articles published in the English language from 1960 to 2023 was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) Statement. Three online databases were searched Embase, Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection. Studies that examined an association between cystic fibrosis and developmental defects of enamel were included in this systematic review.
Results
Ninety-one studies were identified following a search of online databases and bibliographies. Following application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, and screening by two examiners nine studies were deemed eligible for inclusion in the systematic review. Eight studies reported a higher prevalence of developmental defects of enamel in people with cystic fibrosis, although not all reported differences were statistically significant. One study reported no difference between the study and control group
Conclusions
The results of the systematic review indicate varying degrees of heterogeneity between studies. However, there is a consistent pattern that the prevalence of DDE is higher in people with cystic fibrosis compared to people without cystic fibrosis. The aetiology of developmental defect of enamel in people with cystic fibrosis has not been determined although genetic dysfunction, chronic systemic infections, and long-term antibiotic use are some of the theorised causes. This systematic review shows the paucity of information regarding the oral health of this vulnerable cohort and highlights the need for future studies to investigate if the disease process of cystic fibrosis is causative factor for developmental defects of enamel.
A Nationwide Survey and Piloting for Competency-based Training Program for Medical Radiation Therapists – Now and Beyond
Authors: Tu Chao-Yuan , Liu Cheng-Heng , Lu Szu-Huai , Huang Tzu-Jie , Wen Shu-Yu , Lin Wei-Jou , Tu Chun-Yuan , Huang Kuo-Ming , Yang Chih-Wei
Published: August 2023

Background
Competency-based medical education is an important development trend in the training of medical personnel worldwide nowadays. Started from 2019, the society of medical radiotherapist (RTTs) in Taiwan has established a competency framework through stringent consensus-based approach, whilst enhancing professional identify. Before proceeding to the next stages of the full-scale implementation of CBME, we used the milestone framework to investigate the self-assessments of RTTs at various training stages in Taiwan.
Methods
To evaluate trainee performance, a quantitative scale of medical radiation therapy learning milestones was developed for clinical faculty and trainees. According to their tenure, the data collected from each group was separated into three categories: PGY1 (y ≦ 1), PGY2 (1 < y ≦ 2), and graduate trainees (2 < y ≦ 3). We conducted independent t-tests, ANOVA and the Pearson correlation coefficient to analyze the differences and correlation of milestones between categories.
Results
A better understanding of the current mapping of competency levels across training programs was provided, as well as areas where both radiation trainees and instructors lacked confidence, particularly in interprofessional teamwork. Significant positive correlation (0.23–0.4, p < 0.05) were noted between self-assessments in every sub-competency and tenure using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient. Among them, [Interprofessional teamwork], [Management of instrument error and malfunction], [Effective communication with other professions] and [Continuous improvement of professional skills] have the modest correlation coefficients (0.1 ≤ r ≤ 0.29), informing that these areas might be the priority of future training programs renovation.
Conclusions
Based on the milestone framework established by the stringent consensus-based approach, our study reveals the status of nationwide RTTs' self-reported competency levels. The results and experience can serve as a reference for future use of learning milestones, curriculum planning, and teaching evaluation in the medical radiotherapy field and other professions in Taiwan.
Comparison of disposable anesthetic nasal mask and nasal cannula in elderly patients undergoing intravenous anesthesia for gastroscopy: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Guo Peipei , Liu Huan , Tang Lili , Zhao Yangxi , Shi Yunping , Zhang Sichen , Fang Quan , Fan Yinguang , Liu Xuesheng , Wu Huisheng
Published: August 2023

Background
Elderly patients are prone to hypoxemia when they undergo gastroscopy under intravenous anesthesia due to their decreased physiological oxygen reserve capacity, increased sensitivity to drugs, etc. This study aimed to assess whether oxygen administration with the disposable anaesthetic nasal mask can lessen the incidence of hypoxemia in elderly patients during gastroscopy under intravenous anesthesia in comparison to a traditional nasal cannula.
Methods
A total of 300 patients were randomly assigned to oxygen administration by traditional double-chamber nasal cannula or disposable anesthetic nasal mask(n = 150 each). Primary outcome measures were the incidence of hypoxemia and severe hypoxemia. Secondary outcome measures included the duration of hypoxemia, lowest intraoperative SpO2, the proportion of individuals who needed emergency airway management, the proportion of individuals discontinuing gastroscopy, the duration of operation, recovery time from anesthesia, the total dose of propofol, satisfaction of endoscopist, anaesthesiologist and patient, other adverse events.
Results
Compare with the nasal cannula group, the incidence of hypoxemia was significantly reduced (15.5% vs. 45.0%; P < 0.001), the lowest intraoperative SpO2 was significantly increased (96.9% vs. 92.4%, P < 0.001), and the proportion of patients requiring emergency airway management was significantly reduced (13.5% vs. 37.6%; P < 0.001) in the anesthetic nasal mask group. There was only one patient (0.7%) requiring emergency suspension of endoscopy in the anesthetic nasal mask group, while there were 29 patients (19.5%; P < 0.001) requiring emergency suspension of endoscopy in the nasal cannula group. The satisfaction of the endoscopist, as well as anaesthesiologist in the anaesthetic nasal mask group, was significantly higher than in the nasal cannula group (P < 0.01). No major variations were observed in the incidence of severe hypoxemia, hypoxemia duration, duration of endoscopy, recovery time from anesthesia, the total dose of propofol, intraoperative adverse events, patient satisfaction, etc., between the two groups.
Conclusion
The use of an anesthetic nasal mask reduces the occurrence of hypoxemia during gastroscopy under intravenous anesthesia in elderly patients.
Trial registration:
ChiCTR2100053388, 20/11/2021.
Improving health outcomes by strengthening public sector capacity in social and behaviour change programming in Nigeria
Authors: Adetunji Adetayo , Addo Bright , Abegunde Dele , Kalamar Amanda , Tulsiani Nrupa Jani , Sri Pooja , Oyedokun-Adegbabo Foyeke , Ankomah Augustine
Published: August 2023

Background: Capacity building aids sustainability of SBC programming, encompassing planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of activities. USAID-funded project, Breakthrough ACTION/Nigeria is currently implementing interventions to increase the capacity of public sector stakeholders for social and behavior change (SBC) programing, as part of a broader, integrated health SBC project. This paper examines the outcomes of the PSCS approach and how they contribute to the promotion of maternal, newborn, and child health, and nutrition (MNCH+N)-related outcomes.
Methods: The qualitative study used outcome harvesting and most significant change methodologies to evaluate project outcomes over five years. Data collection included key informant interviews and most significant change stories in Sokoto, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Bauchi, and Ebonyi states of Nigeria. Data was collected from 45 participants between July and August 2022. Thematic analysis approach was used to analyze data. Ethical approvals and informed consent were obtained before data collection.
Findings: The PSCS approach empowered stakeholders at the individual level to disseminate health messages, monitor health and SBC activities, and increase the demand for health services. At the organizational level, the approach facilitated coordination of SBC activities, enabled training cascades, and promoted adherence to health service guidelines. At the system level, it strengthened ward development committees to address health challenges. Challenges hindering stakeholders' application of PSCS-acquired skills include inadequate workforce, negative attitudes of health workers, funding constraints, cultural barriers, lack of government ownership, and limited accessibility.
Conclusion: This study shows that the PSCS approach is an effective model to scale up capacity for SBC in health programs. In response to documented supply-side challenges impeding the application of gained knowledge, we recommend inclusive health worker recruitment, sensitization programs for health workers, government ownership, improved security, healthcare infrastructure and transportation systems. Implementing these recommendations will complement stakeholder capacity for improved health outcomes.
mFOLFIRINOX versus mFOLFOX 6 as adjuvant treatment for high-risk stage III colon cancer - The FROST trial: Study protocol for a multicenter, randomized controlled, phase II trial
Authors: Lee Kyung Ha , Yang In Jun , Ha Gi Won , Lee Jaeim , Park Youn Young , Lee Seok Hwan , Lee Jong Min , Bae Jung Hoon , Park Eun Jung , Kim Hyungjin , Kim Keun Young , An Sanghyung , Kim Ik Yong , Kim Ji Yeon
Published: August 2023

Background
High-risk stage III colon cancer has a considerably poorer prognosis than stage II and low-risk stage III colon cancers. Nevertheless, most guidelines recommend similar adjuvant treatment approaches for all these stages despite the dearth of research focusing on high-risk stage III colon cancer and the potential for improved prognosis with intensive adjuvant treatment. Given the the proven efficacy of triplet chemotherapy in metastatic colorectal cancer treatment, the goal of this study is to evaluate the oncologic efficacy and safety of mFOLFIRINOX in comparison to those of the current standard of care, mFOLFOX 6, as an adjuvant treatment for patients diagnosed with high-risk stage III colon cancer after radical resection.
Methods
This multicenter, randomized (1:1), open-label, phase II trial will assess and compare the effectiveness and toxicity of mFOLFIRINOX and mFOLFOX 6 in patients with high-risk stage III colon cancer after radical resection. The goal of the trial is to enroll 312 eligible patients, from 11 institutes, aged between 20 and 70 years, with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0–2, or between 70 and 75 with an ECOG performance status of 0. Patients will be randomized into two arms - Arm A, the experimental arm, and Arm B, the reference arm - and will receive 12 cycles of mFOLFIRINOX and mFOLFOX 6 every 2 weeks, respectively. The primary endpoint of this study is the 3-year disease-free survival, and secondary endpoints include the 3-year overall survival and treatment toxicity.
Discussion:
The Frost trial would help determine the oncologic efficacy and safety of adjuvant triplet chemotherapy for high-risk stage III colon cancers and ultimately improve prognoses.
Trial registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05179889, registered on 17 December 2021.
Esketamine use is associated with shortened postoperative hospital stay in patients underwent knee arthroscopic surgery: a retrospective clinical study
Authors: Liu Jing , Han Hong , Yang Shangze , Zhan Xiaoxuan , Cao Bingbing , Peng Yue
Published: August 2023

Background:
Previous studies have examined anesthetics to improve postoperative prognosis after knee arthroscopic surgery. However, it is currently unknown whether perioperative anesthetics can influence postoperative hospital stay. We investigated the impact of esketamine after knee arthroscopic surgery on post-operative length of stay, fever and surgical site infection.
Methods:
This study included 455 patients who underwent knee surgery between January2020 and August 2021at a tertiary hospital in China. Patient characteristics, preoperative laboratory values, intra-operative anesthetic data, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses with or without propensity score matching were performed to identify factors related to post-operative discharge within 3 days(PD3).
Results:
A total of 297cases met our inclusion criteria. The mean age of patients was 42 ± 14 years, mean body mass index, 24.1 ± 3.5kg/m2, 157(53%) patients were male. Meniscus-related procedures accounted for the most part of all the procedures with a percentage of 40.4%, followed by combined procedures of 35.4%. After we adjusted for demographic and intraoperative characteristics with propensity score matching, esketamine use was significantly associated with PD3 with the highest odds ratio of 2.28 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.18–4.41, p = 0.014).
Conclusion:
Esketamine use was associated with PD3 in patients underwent knee arthroscopic surgery. The findings of this study will be useful to anesthesiologists in making informed decisions regarding the choice of anesthetics for knee joint diseases.
Trial registration
This study was approved by the Ethics Committee (Approval No.:2023-041-01) of the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University and retrospectively registered.
Analysis and Validation of Biomarkers of immune cell related genes in postmenopausal osteoporosis
Authors: Chen Lihua , Qiu Jingjing , Zhao Yu , Lin Xiaosheng
Published: August 2023

Objective
Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) is a common metabolic inflammatory disease. In conditions of estrogen deficiency, chronic activation of the immune system leads to a hypo-inflammatory phenotype and alterations in its cytokine and immune cell profile, although immune cells play an important role in the pathology of osteoporosis, studies on this have been rare. Therefore, it is important to investigate the role of immune cell-related genes in PMOP.
Methods
PMOP-related datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Immune cells scores between high bone mineral density (BMD) and low BMD samples were assessed based on the single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) method. Subsequently, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed to identify modules highly associated with immune cells and obtain module genes. Differential analysis between high BMD and low BMD was also performed to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Module genes are intersected with DEGs to obtain candidate genes, and functional enrichment analysis was performed. Machine learning methods were used to filter out the signature genes. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of the signature genes and the nomogram were plotted to determine whether the signature genes can be used as a molecular marker. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was also performed to explore the potential mechanism of the signature genes. Finally, RNA expression of signature genes was validated in blood samples from PMOP patients and normal control by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).
Results
Our study of PMOP patients identified differences in immune cells (Activated dendritic cell, CD56bright natural killer cell, Central memory CD4 T cell, Effector memory CD4 T cell, Mast cell, Natural killer T cell, T follicular helper cell, Type 1 T helper cell and Type 17 T helper cell) between high and low BMD patients. We obtained a total of 73 candidate genes based on modular genes and differential genes, and obtained five signature genes by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator and random forest model screening. ROC, principal component analysis and t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding down scaling analysis revealed that the five signature genes had good discriminatory ability between high and low BMD samples. A logistic regression model was constructed based on five signature genes, and both ROC and column line plots indicated that the model accuracy and applicability were good. Five signature genes were found to be associated with proteasome, mitochondria, and lysosome by GSEA. The qRT-PCR results showed that the expression of the signature genes was significantly different between the two groups.
Conclusion
HIST1H2AG, PYGM, NCKAP1, POMP and LYPLA1 might play key roles in PMOP and be served as the biomarkers of PMOP.
IGF2BP2 regulates the inflammation of fibroblast-like synoviocytes via GSTM5 in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wang Youhua , Nan Yunyi , Chen Minhao , Wu Weijie , Huang Rongrong , Sun Weiwei , Lu Qian , Gu Zhifeng , Mao Xingxing , Xu Hua
Published: August 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease with an unknown etiology. RA cannot be fully cured and requires lengthy treatment, which causes a great burden on both individuals and society. Due to the lack of specific drugs available for treating RA, exploring a key new therapeutic target for RA is currently an important task. Activated fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) are key participants in the progression of rheumatoid arthritis, which release interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α that cause abnormal inflammatory reaction in the synovium. Previous study has highlighted the correlation of m6A reader IGF2BP2 and inflammation-related diseases in human. However, the role of IGF2BP2 in inflammatory reaction of FLSs in RA progression has not been assessed. In this study, IGF2BP2 expression was decreased in the synovial tissues from RA patients and collagen induced arthritis (CIA) rats. Intra-articular injection with IGF2BP2 overexpressive adeno-associated virus relieved paw swelling, synovial hyperplasia and cartilage destruction in CIA rats. IGF2BP2 overexpression also inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated RA-FLSs migration and invasion accompanied by the decreased levels of inflammatory factors in vitro. Conversely, IGF2BP2 suppression promoted RA-FLSs migration and invasion with an elevated level of inflammatory factors in vitro. Sequencing result showed that GSTM5, a key antioxidant gene, was the target mRNA of IGF2BP2. Further experiments demonstrated that IGF2BP2 strengthened the stability of GSTM5 mRNA leading to weakened inflammatory reaction and reduced expression of MMP9 and MMP13. Therefore, IGF2BP2-GSTM5 axis may be a potential therapeutic target for RA treatment.
Colloidal Stability and Dielectric Behavior of Eco-Friendly Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanostructures from Moringa Seeds.
Authors: Jose Basilio Jose Augusto , Shinde Mahendra Devidas
Published: August 2023

This research focuses on the eco-friendly synthesis of ZnO NPs from Zn (CH3COO)2·2H2O and moringa seeds. The synthesized nanostructures were characterized using various analytical techniques, including XRD, UV-VIS spectroscopy, FESEM, XPS, and Raman spectroscopy. XRD measurements and W-H plot transformation confirmed the formation of ZnO nanostructures with an average size of 24.9 nm. UV-VIS spectroscopy and Kubelka Munk curve analysis determined the direct conduction and bandgap of 3.265 eV. FESEM analysis showed low particle aggregation, with distinct grain boundaries ranging in size from 20.4 to 87.7 nm. XPS analysis confirmed the presence of Zn (2p), Zn (3p), Zn (3d), and O (1s). The Raman spectroscopy indicated that the E2H was the dominant mode, followed by E1(TO) and (E2H- E2L). ZnO thin films prepared by PLD and deposited onto silicon (100) substrate exhibited excellent morphology and well-defined topography, with a normal size distribution of grains. Zeta potential tests showed a value of approximately − 43.7 mV, indicating good stability of the colloidal suspension, possibly due to low particle aggregation. Dielectric measurements on sintered pallets at 900°C revealed high capacitance and dielectric constant at low frequencies within the temperature range of 289.935K to 310K. These findings confirmed the potential of eco-friendly synthesized ZnO for various applications, including energy devices and nanofluids.
Sinomenine attenuates pulmonary fibrosis by downregulating TGF-β1/Smad3, PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways
Authors: Yao Fuqiang , Xu Minghao , Dong Lingjun , Shen Xiao , Shen Yujie , Jiang Yisheng , Zhu Ting , Zhang Chu , Yu Guangmao
Published: August 2023

Background
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive and irreversible interstitial lung disease. Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) has become more common among people severely infected with COVID-19, with IPF being the most common form since this virus became a global epidemic disease in 2019. At present, the etiology is unclear, the treatment methods are limited, and the prognosis is quite poor. Sinomenine (SIN) extracted from the dried stems of Sinomenium actum, is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat several diseases, alleviate liver fibrosis injury, and improve airway remodeling caused by chronic asthma. However, the mechanism used by SIN to combat PF is unclear. Therefore, this work describes the effect of SIN on IPF.
Methods
PF was induced by bleomycin (BLM) in C57BL-6J mice, and then Inflammatory factors, lung histopathological changes, and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway were evaluated. Serum-starved human embryonic lung fibroblasts (HFL-1) and A549 cells were treated with different doses of SIN. We observed the effects of SIN on HFL-1 and A549 cells, including proliferation and migration, the transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts (FMT), epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and signal pathways (TGF-β/Smad, PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signal pathways). In addition, the TGF-β receptor inhibitor SB-431542 was used to evaluate not only the classical Smad pathways downstream of TGF-β, but also non-Smad pathways (PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways) involved in the process of PF.
Results
The in vivo experiments showed that SIN reduced the pathological changes in the lung tissue induced by BLM, reduced the abnormal expression of inflammatory cytokines, and improved the weight and survival rate of mice induced by BLM. The in vitro experiments showed that SIN inhibited the migration and proliferation of HFL-1 and A549 cells by inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad3, PI3K/Akt, and NF-κB pathways, prevented the FMT of HFL-1, reversed the EMT of A549 cells, restored the balance of matrix metalloenzymes, and reduced the expression of ECM proteins.
Conclusion
SIN attenuated PF by down-regulating TGF-β/Smad3, PI3K/Akt, and NF-κB signaling pathways, being a potential effective drug in the treatment of PF.
A sustainable electrolyte towards dendrite-free and long-lasting zinc-metal batteries
Authors: He Guanjie , Zhang Wei , Chen Ruwei , Dai Yuhang , Lu Gongxun , Zhang Mengtian , Wu Xian , Du Zijuan , Gao Xuan , Guo Fei , Ye Chumei , Dong Haobo , Zhu Jiexin , Zong Wei , Xu Zhenming , Jiang Peie , Liu Mingqiang , Wu Yulun , Li Zheng , Parkin Ivan
Published: August 2023

Aqueous zinc (Zn) batteries hold great promise for large-scale energy storage by virtue of the high sustainability, low cost of Zn resources, high safety and low environmental impact. However, severe side reactions including Zn dendrite growth at the Zn surface hinder their practical application. “Water-in-salt” and organic/aqueous hybrid electrolytes address these problems but compromise the intrinsic merits of high ionic conductivity, superior safety, low cost and good sustainability. Herein, methylurea (MU) which has hydrogen (H) bond donor/acceptor properties is examined as a multifunctional electrolyte additive to boost the Zn anode reversibility without compromising the above advantages of aqueous electrolytes. Systematic experimental and theoretical analyses confirm that MU molecules alter the H-bonding network and reconstruct Zn2+ solvation sheath; furthermore, the desolvation process can be facilitated with lower energy barriers. Besides, MU additives tend to be absorbed on the Zn surface to build a water-poor electrical double layer and can in-situ form a robust solid electrolyte interphase layer that protects the Zn anode. The Zn (002) plane is predominately deposited and can also be guided by MU. Consequently, the lifespan of the Zn||Zn cell using MU can maintain over 3000 h and the average Coulombic efficiency of the Zn||Cu cell reaches 99.7% throughout 1800 cycles. Additionally, our strategy can be applied in full cells with boosted performances for MnO2, activated carbon and conversion-type I2 (capacity retention: 93.2% throughout 7500 cycles) cathodes under practical electrode ratios.
Integrability, bilinearization, exact traveling wave solutions, lump and
lump-multi-kink solutions of a (3 + 1)-dimensional negative order
KdV-Calogero-Bogoyavlenskii-Schiff equation
Authors: Das Amiya , Mandal Uttam Kumar , Karmakar Biren , Ma Wen Xiu
Published: August 2023

In this article, we consider a (3+1)-dimensional negative order KdV-CBS equation which represents interactions of long wave propagation dynamics with remarkable applications in the field of fluid mechanics and quantum mechanics etc. We investigate the integrability aspect of the considered model in the framework of Hirota bilinear form, infinite conservations laws and formulation of Lax pair. At first, we introduce the concept of Bell polynomial theory and utilize it to obtain the Hirota bilinear form. We introduce a two field condition to determine the bilinear Backlund transformation. We use the Cole-Hopf transformation in bilinear Backlund transformation and linearize it to obtain the Lax pair formulation. The existence of infinite number of conservation laws have been checked through the Bell polynomial theory. Moreover, we derive one-kink, two-kink and three-kink soliton solution from the Hirota bilinear form. We have successfully investigated the existence of traveling wave solution for the (3 + 1)- dimensional negative order KDV-CBS equation and the conditions for the existence of the solution are reported. The traveling wave solutions are extracted in the form of incomplete elliptic integral of second kind and Jacobi elliptic function. Particularly, the use of long wave limit yields kink-soliton solutions. Furthermore, we exhibit necessary and sufficient condition for extracting lump solutions of (3 + 1)-dimensional nonlinear evolution equations, which have few particular types of Hirota bilinear form. The lump solutions are exploited by means of well known test function in the Hirota bilinear form. This method reduces the number of algebraic equations to solve in deriving lump solutions of variety of NLLEs in comparison with the previously available methods in literature. Finally, two new forms of test functions are chosen and lump-multi-kink solutions have been determined.
Foliar applied silicon nanoparticles improved fruit yield, biochemical attributes, and leaf minerals of different cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) cultivars
Authors: Khademi Hossein Tajik , khodadadi mohsen , Hassanpanah Davoud , Hajainfar Ramin
Published: August 2023

Silicon (Si) nanoparticles has an eminent role in improving plant yield through improving yield. The present study was conducted to find the effect of Si NPs on plant yield, biochemical attributes and minerals of different cucumber cultivars. The greenhouse experiment with foliar application of Si NPs (100, 200, and 300 mg L− 1) was carried out on cucumber cultivars (Emilie, Mirsoltan, Mitio, and Viola). The application of Si NPs at 300 mg L− 1 led to the highest fruit yield, with a 17% increase in fruit production compared to the control. Emilie and Si NPs at 100 mg L− 1 and Mito at 300 mg L− 1 produced different fruit firmnesses by 31%. Plants experiencing Si NPs at a 300 mg L− 1 had the greatest Chl a + b. Compared to the other cultivars, Mito had a greater fruit yield and Chl content. Si NPs increased TSS by 11% while lowering TA by 24% when compared to the control at 300 mg L− 1. Foliar application of Si NPs reduced the value of TSS/TA. By advancing Si NPs, leaf Si increased. The largest value of K was reached in the Mito cultivar with Si NPs at 200 mg L− 1, with a 22% increase in comparison to the control, indicating that Si NPs considerably boosted the K content. Si NPs at 200 mg L− 1 significantly increased leaf N and P in the Mito cultivar by 16 and 50%, respectively. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that TA had a strong negative connection with all cucumber plant characteristics when Si NPs were present. By using agglomerative hierarchy clustering (AHC), Emilie and Mito were located in two separate clusters, whilst Viola and Mirsoltan were grouped together in one. In conclusion, Si NPs at 200–300 mg L− 1 enhanced fruit yield, and Mito showed the highest yield when compared to other cultivars.
Landscape changes of alpine grasslands in the Zhari Namco basin of the central-southern Qiangtang Plateau
Authors: Chen Lu , Zhang Wei , Li Wenjie , Li Rui , Chen Wenxi , Ran Qinghong , Qin Jianxiong
Published: August 2023

Context. The Qiangtang Plateau, with its high elevations and cold, dry climate, poses challenges for fieldwork, particularly for ecological research of alpine grassland landscapes at the plant community scale.
Objectives. This study aimed to establishand map the distribution patterns of dominant communities in the alpine basin of Zhari Namco. It also investigated the evolution over the past two decades in terms of the number of grasslands, their structural changes, and the fragmentation of habitats.
Methods. We quantified the habitat characteristics of dominant plant communities considering topography, hydrology, and fractional vegetation cover. Fifteen landscape indices were selected to examine the characteristics of the grassland changes.
Results. The results indicated: (1) the patches of S. purpurea steppe and K. pygmaea meadow were more fragmented compared with the other types. These two types had a decisive impact on the entire grassland landscape; (2) the patch structure of both Carex swamp meadow and C. moorcroftii meadow remained stable, but displayed a different degree of habitat fragmentation as a result of grazing management; and (3) S. purpurea + C. moorcroftii steppe, located in areas with the best hydrothermal conditions, maintained a relatively stable grassland structure with a lighter degree of habitat fragmentation. It is the most suitable grassland resource for grazing in the study region.
Conclusions. The present findings provide a reference for exploring the changes in the type and scale of alpine grassland plant communities. It also serves for the rational utilization of alpine grassland resources in the Qiangtang Plateau.
Dual-Modality Imaging for Monitoring Thrombosis via Platelet GPIIb/IIIa Receptor Targeted cyclic RGDfK Microbubbles
Authors: wang yabin , Zhang Yang , Yang Ning , Zhang Xiaoting , Ma Sai , Xu Mengqi , Xu Yunxue , Gao Shan , Fang Yan , Li Na , Li Sulei , Liang Ping , Zhang Xu , Fan Li , cao feng
Published: August 2023

Backgound: Acute thrombotic events play a vital role in cardiovascular diseases. Our study aims to investigate an ultrasound microbubble fordual-modality imaging of thrombi.
Methods:DID-DSPE-PEG-cRGD-Microbubbles wereprepared by mechanical vibration and Chemical chelation methods. In vivofluorecence and ultrasound imaging were performed after by intravenous injection of DID-DSPE-PEG-cRGD-Microbubbles respectively.
Results: This microbubbles exhibitedgood binding affinity to activated platelets with significant fluorescence and ultrasonic signals. Ultrasound and fluorescence imaging revealed that the microbubbles accumulated at the site of the thrombus in the carotid artery, and immunofluorescence showed that microbubbles could be detected in the carotid artery thrombus.
Conclusion: We successfully synthesized novel microbubble cRGD-MBs, which indicateexcellent potential for immediate diagnosis of acute thrombus in vivo.
Fabrication and performance investigation of flexible sensors based on RGO for health-monitoring
Authors: Lv Wenchao , Chen Peihong , Jiang Yuanhe , Ge Zhixiang
Published: August 2023

People all over the world are deeply aware of the importance of good health by the epidemic in recent years, which has caused tremendous attention on health monitoring industry and technology. Sensors are widely used in the health monitoring field. However, traditional sensors are mainly rigid devices, which are not suitable for human health monitoring. Flexible sensors are gradually available, but most of the processes are complex and the cost is high, which seriously restricts their rapid development. In this paper, a simple design of flexible sensors based on reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was proposed, which can be used for real-time health monitoring. The performance investigations of flexible sensors were conducted and the results indicate that the response time of the flexible force sensor is 540 ms and the relaxation time is 330 ms. It is highly sensitive to pressure load, solution concentration and vibration signal. The humidity sensor based on RGO is sensitive to the surrounding humidity by sensing water molecules adsorbed on the sensor surface. The flexible sensors fabricated by the method proposed in this paper require simple process and exhibit high performance. Hereby, they have broad application prospect in the field of health monitoring.