bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro and in silico evaluation of Acalypha indica ethanolic extract on lipid metabolism-related protein expression on breast cancer cells
Authors: Johari Nur Amanina , Hoo Wei Qi , Lo Lois Tzu Hui , Idris Mohamad Khairul Hafiz , Amran Syazwani Itri , Ab Latif Nurriza , Hasham Rosnani , Jemon Khairunadwa
Published: December 2024

Dysregulated lipid metabolism has been recognized as one of the most significant metabolic changes in breast cancer development. Acalypha indica is a polyphenol-rich herbal plant with various medicinal applications such as antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. However, studies on the inhibitory effect of A. indica ethanolic extract (AI) on breast cancer cells and its efficacy as an alternative lipogenesis inhibitor are still less explored. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the possible inhibition mechanisms of selected phenolic acids and flavonoids from the extract against MCF-7 breast cancer. The antiproliferative effect of AI was determined using MTT assay. Immunocytochemical analysis was used to evaluate the inhibitory effect of AI on the expression of the three lipogenic enzymes; fatty acid synthase (FASN), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCA), and ATP citrate lyase (ACLY). In addition, molecular docking of the phenolic acids (gallic acid, ferulic acid, and caffeic acid) and flavonoids (rutin and quercetin) were performed using AutoDock Tools, and their ADMET properties were determined using SwissADME and pKCSM web servers. AI treatment resulted in inhibition of cell viability of MCF-7 breast cancer cells after 24 and 48 h. In addition, immunocytochemistry revealed a significant decrease in the expression of FASN, ACCA, and ACLY in MCF-7 cells when compared to control. Docking studies demonstrated that AI phytochemical quercetin was considered the most potential lipogenesis inhibitor due to its lowest binding energy to FASN, ACCA, and ACLY compared to other phytochemicals. Nevertheless, results from ADMET analysis suggested that all compounds except rutin possessed acceptable ADME and toxicity properties. Collectively, these findings indicated that the chemoprevention by AI in breast cancer cells is associated with the inhibition of fatty acid synthesis.
An Insight into the Performance and Prospect of Catalysts in Biodiesel Production, with Special Emphasis on Heterogeneous Based Catalysis
Authors: Bello Abdu Muhammad
Published: December 2024

Fossil fuel depletion, increased world energy demand, and the environmental crisis linked to petroleum-based energy instigated the quest for its substitute. The sustainability of biodiesel affords it a high prospect over fossil fuels. It has been receiving attention as a result of its biodegradability, renewability, low toxicity, and good transport and storage properties. The main shortcomings of biodiesel are the production cost and choice of catalyst. Three types of catalysts mainly used for biodiesel production are basic, acidic, or enzyme. Industrial production of biodiesel typically employed homogeneous catalysts due to their ability to facilitate the reaction quickly. However, catalyst separation and biodiesel purification are tormenting, requiring a large amount of water. Thus, heterogeneous catalysts, with several advantages over homogenous catalysts, have been searched. Heterogeneous catalysts can be separated from the products effortlessly, thus allowing for recycling. Furthermore, the process is simpler, cheaper, and more environmentally benign. This review aims to evaluate the performance of different types of catalysts in the transesterification reaction, with special emphasis on heterogeneous base catalysts. The review also gives insight into the key catalytic properties that need to be tailored economically and eco-friendly to reduce cost, to give better biodiesel yield/conversion. Additionally, the various conditions necessary for the optimum yield of biodiesel have also been explored. Lastly, the future challenges and prospects of heterogeneous base catalysts are proposed.
Keywords: Biodiesel, Catalyst performance, Heterogeneous catalyst, Transesterification
The Galois‐equivariant K$K$‐theory of finite fields
Authors: Chan David , Vogeli Chase
Published: December 2024

We compute the ‐graded equivariant algebraic ‐groups of a finite field with an action by its Galois group . Specifically, we show these ‐groups split as the sum of an explicitly computable term and the well‐studied ‐graded coefficient groups of the equivariant Eilenberg–MacLane spectrum . Our comparison between the equivariant ‐theory spectrum and further shows they share the same Tate spectra and geometric fixed point spectra. In the case where has prime order, we provide an explicit presentation of the equivariant ‐groups.
Homological mirror symmetry for functors between Fukaya categories of very affine hypersurfaces
Authors: Gammage Benjamin , Jeffs Maxim
Published: December 2024

We prove that homological mirror symmetry for very affine hypersurfaces respects certain natural symplectic operations (as functors between partially wrapped Fukaya categories), verifying conjectures of Auroux. These conjectures concern compatibility between mirror symmetry for a very affine hypersurface and its complement, itself also a very affine hypersurface. We find that the complement of a very affine hypersurface has, in fact, two natural mirrors, one of which is a derived scheme. These two mirrors are related via a nongeometric equivalence mediated by Knörrer periodicity; Auroux's conjectures require some modification to take this into account. Our proof also introduces new techniques for presenting Liouville manifolds as gluings of Liouville sectors.
Interaction effects in laryngeal and respiratory control of the voice source and vocal fold contact pressure
Authors: Zhang Zhaoyan
Published: December 2024

Previous studies of laryngeal and respiratory control of the voice source often focus on main effects of individual control parameters but not their interactions. The goal of this study is to systematically identify important interaction effects in laryngeal and respiratory control of the voice source and vocal fold contact pressure in a three-dimensional voice production model. Computational simulations were performed with parametric variations in vocal fold geometry, stiffness, prephonatory glottal gap, and subglottal pressure. The results showed that, while the glottal closure pattern and source spectral shape were dominantly controlled by vocal fold vertical thickness, the prephonatory glottal gap had important effects in thick vocal folds or near phonation onset. Coordinated adjustments in both the prephonatory glottal gap and thickness were required to produce a long duration of the closed phase and strong high-frequency harmonic production. Interaction between subglottal pressure and transverse stiffness was observed in the control of the peak vocal fold contact pressure. The contact pressure was highest in vocal folds with low transverse stiffness when exposed to high subglottal pressure, indicating the importance of maintaining a balance between subglottal pressure and transverse stiffness to minimizing vocal fold injury.
Tetraspanin CD81 serves as a functional entry factor for porcine circovirus type 2 infection
Authors: Li Junshuo , Lv Lin , Gao Yanni , Sun Yangyang , Bai Juan , Wang Xianwei , Sun Haifen , Jiang Ping
Published: December 2024

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is the primary causative agent of porcine circovirus-associated disease, clinically resulting in immunosuppression and co-infections with other pathogens in infected pigs. The mechanism of PCV2 infection remains unclear. In this study, we firstly found that the tetraspanin CD81 in PK-15 cells interacts with PCV2 Cap protein by using virus overlay protein-binding assay combined with mass spectrometry. Knockdown of the CD81 significantly reduces the levels of the viral Cap mRNA and protein, and viral internalization in PK-15 cells. The critical interaction regions locate in the large extracellular loop (LEL) domain of CD81 and the CD loop region (82–91aa) of the Cap protein, and a polyclonal antibody against the CD81 LEL domain significantly inhibits PCV2 infection. The transmembrane proteoglycan Syndecan-1 interacts with both CD81 and PCV2 Cap, and co-operates with CD81 to promote PCV2 infection in PK-15 cells. Furthermore, CD81 facilitates RhoA activation and enhances the viral internalization and replication in PK-15 cells. It was concluded that the tetraspanin CD81 is a key host factor for PCV2 invasion into PK-15 cells, thus providing new insights into PCV2 life cycle and identifying a potential target for antiviral drug development.

IMPORTANCE

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), a significant economic pathogen in the swine industry, presents persistent challenges in its prevention and treatment. Despite extensive research, the mechanism of PCV2 invading host cells remains unclear. In this study, we found and identified a novel interaction between the tetraspanin CD81 and the viral Cap protein during the PCV2 invading PK-15 cells. The transmembrane proteoglycan Syndecan-1 and RhoA are involved in the infection process through the CD81. Moreover, this is the first time that the role of Syndecan-1 in the PCV2 infection process has been demonstrated. Also, a polyclonal antibody against the CD81 extracellular domain significantly inhibits PCV2 infection in PK-15 cells. It not only enriches our understanding of PCV2 life cycle but also offers new perspectives for the development of antiviral therapeutics against circovirus.
Draft genome sequence of
Streptomyces carpaticus
FH1
Authors: Hassan Farwa , Ali Hazrat , Hassan Noor , Saqib Anam , Rashid Muhammad Hamid , Nawaz Aniqa , Naqvi Rubab Zahra
Published: December 2024

Phytopathogens with multi-drug resistance are emerging frequently, resulting in various disease outbreaks. Hence, exploring new antimicrobials is urgent. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
Streptomyces carpaticus
FH1 strain, with the potential to produce various antimicrobial compounds. Genomic annotation revealed various genes encoding kanamycin, ectoine, and naringerin.
Complete genome sequence of Flavobacteriaceae sp. strain GF1, isolated from the phycosphere of a coral endosymbiotic dinoflagellate
Authors: Takagi Toshiyuki , Aoyama Kako , Motone Keisuke
Published: December 2024

A Flavobacteriaceae sp. strain GF1 was isolated from an endosymbiotic dinoflagellate of a coral, and the genome was sequenced using a PacBio Sequel IIe system. The genome consists of a circular 5,300,001 bp chromosome and is predicted to harbor 6 rRNA genes, 42 tRNA genes, and 4,465 coding sequences.
Metagenome-assembled genome of
Staphylococcus nepalensis
from urban bats in China
Authors: Jiang Xuan , Ma Wentai
Published: December 2024

We conducted metagenomic sequencing on a stool sample collected from urban-dwelling
Pipistrellus abramus
and obtained a metagenome-assembled genome of
Staphylococcus nepalensis
. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that this strain is closely related to the one isolated from dogs, forming a distinct clade separate from the reference genome.
Strain-limited biofilm regulation through the Brg1-Rme1 circuit in
Candida albicans
Authors: Kim Min-Ju , Mitchell Aaron P.
Published: December 2024

Prominent virulence traits of
Candida albicans
include its ability to produce filamentous hyphal cells and grow as a biofilm. These traits are under control of numerous transcription factors (TFs), including Brg1 and Rme1. In the reference strain SC5314, a
brg1
Δ/Δ mutant has reduced levels of biofilm/filament production; a
brg1
Δ/Δ
rme1
Δ/Δ double mutant has wild-type levels of biofilm/filament production. Here, we asked whether this suppression relationship is preserved in four additional strain backgrounds: P76067, P57055, P87, and P75010. These strains represent diverse clades and biofilm/filament production abilities. We find that a
rme1
Δ/Δ mutation restores biofilm/filament production in a
brg1
Δ/Δ mutant of P76067, but not in
brg1
Δ/Δ mutants of P57055, P87, and P75010. We speculate that variation in activities of two functionally related TFs, Nrg1, and Ume6, may cause the strain-limited impact of the
rme1
Δ/Δ mutation.

IMPORTANCE

Candida albicans
is a widespread fungal pathogen. The regulatory circuitry underlying virulence traits is well studied in the reference strain background, but not in other clinical isolate backgrounds. Here, we describe a pronounced example of strain variation in the control of two prominent virulence traits, biofilm formation and filamentation.
Determining the effect of seminal plasma supplementation on sperm motility in males with asthenozoospermia: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Willathgamuwa Nathalie Dilhara , Nammunige Manodya Kaushani , Thennakoon Thennakoon Mudiyanselage Hiranthika , Nissanka Nissanka Mudiyanselage Tanuri Ayang , Withanage Dona Manushi Dinasha , Rodrigo Nishadi Sachinthani , Logenthiran Prassana Varun
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Male infertility, defined as the inability to impregnate a fertile female, arises from various factors, among which sperm motility plays a pivotal role in determining reproductive potential. Seminal plasma, a complex fluid comprising diverse proteins, serves to nourish and support sperm, thereby facilitating their function within the female reproductive tract for successful conception. Normozoospermia denotes normal sperm motility in males, whereas asthenozoospermia indicates reduced sperm motility. This review seeks to assess the feasibility of augmenting sperm motility in men with asthenozoospermia through supplementation with seminal plasma or specific seminal plasma proteins.

Methods and analysis

A systematic literature review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines will be conducted. PubMed and Google Scholar databases will be systematically searched using predefined keywords and Boolean operators. The search strategy will encompass terms related to asthenozoospermia, normozoospermia, seminal plasma proteins, sperm motility and sperm movement. Additionally, reference lists of relevant articles will be scrutinised for additional studies. Inclusion criteria will encompass human studies published as original research articles between 2019 and 2023. Data extraction will be performed using a standardised form, encompassing author details, country of origin, publication year, study design, participant characteristics, outcomes and conclusions. The risk of bias within the selected studies will be evaluated using the Robvis visualisation tool.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this systematic review. The findings will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal and presentation at relevant conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024526439
Scoping review of social workers’ professional roles in primary care
Authors: Ashcroft Rachelle , Sheffield Peter , Adamson Keith , Phelps Fred , Webber Glenda , Walsh Benjamin , Dallaire Louis-François , Sur Deepy , Kemp Connor , Rayner Jennifer , Lam Simon , Brown Judith Belle
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Maximising social workers’ contributions to primary care requires clarity about their scope of practice in this context. This scoping review sought to clarify what is known about social work’s scope of practice in primary care settings.

Design

A scoping review design guided by the five-stage scoping review framework developed by Arksey and O’Malley and the updated JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis.

Data sources

204 articles, published between 2013 and 2023 and obtained from the following seven databases, were reviewed: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Social Work Abstracts, Social Services Abstracts, Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts and Scopus.

Eligibility criteria

Peer-reviewed articles that included a focus on social work and primary care, written in English, published between 2013 and 2023 and not restricted by geographical location.

Data extraction and synthesis

Social workers’ scope of practice in primary care was assessed in terms of role; health conditions, patient populations, social issues addressed; location of practice and modality for care delivery; range of providers that social workers collaborate and methods of collaboration.

Results

Results indicate that primary care social workers advance comprehensive, patient-centred, continuity of care and benefit both patients and other providers within primary care teams. Social workers undertake a range of roles, activities and functions in primary care settings—spanning direct patient care, team processes and community engagement. Social workers in primary care are involved in supporting patients with a robust range of mental, behavioural and neurodevelopmental conditions, as well as other acute and chronic health conditions. Most social workers are physically co-located within a team and are collaborating with a wide range of providers within and outside of the team.

Conclusions

This scoping review contributes clarity about social work’s capacity for enhancing the delivery of primary care. Social work’s role in primary care facilitates comprehensive, continuous and patient-centred care that improves the experiences of both patients and teams. Social work clinicians, leaders and scholars are encouraged to seek out opportunities to participate in and undertake research identifying these contributions to primary care.
DREAM: an adaptive, randomised, placebo-controlled trial of duloxetine for reducing leg pain in people with chronic sciatica—trial protocol
Authors: McLachlan Hanan , Maher Christopher G , Lin Chung-Wei Christine , Billot Laurent , Day Richard O , Ivers Rowena , Underwood Martin , McLachlan Andrew J , Richards Bethan , Finnerup Nanna B , Ferreira Giovanni E
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Sciatica is a debilitating condition that often becomes chronic, and for which there are few effective treatment options. Treatments such as the anti-depressant duloxetine have shown promise, but the evidence is inconclusive. We are describing a high quality, definitive trial to investigate the efficacy, safety and cost-effectiveness of duloxetine in chronic sciatica.

Methods and analysis

The duloxetine for chronic sciatica (DREAM) trial is a randomised, superiority, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, triple-blinded (participant, clinician, assessor) trial with an adaptive group sequential design investigating the efficacy and safety of duloxetine in participants with chronic sciatica of at least 3 months duration. Participants will be randomised at a 1:1 ratio to duloxetine or placebo. 332 participants will be recruited on presentation to general practices, specialist clinics and hospital emergency departments or from hospital in-patient wards and from the community. In the active treatment group, participants will receive duloxetine 60 mg per day for 12 weeks, including 1 week of titration at 30 mg/day. The treatment phase will be followed by a 2-week tapering phase where they will receive duloxetine 30 mg/day. Participants will be followed-up for 1 year, with outcomes being measured 4, 8, 12, 16, 26, and 52 weeks post-randomisation. The primary outcome is leg pain intensity at 12 weeks post-randomisation. Secondary outcomes include back pain intensity, disability, time to recovery, quality of life, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and sleep disturbance. Adverse events will be recorded, and a cost-effectiveness analysis will be conducted.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been granted by the University of Sydney Human Research Ethics Committee. Trial results will be disseminated by publications, conference presentations and via the media.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12624000919516.
Socioeconomic inequalities in adherence to clinical practice guidelines and breast cancer survival: a multicentre population-based study in Spain
Authors: Petrova Dafina , Redondo-Sánchez Daniel , Rodríguez-Barranco Miguel , Marcos-Gragera Rafael , Guevara Marcela , Carulla Marià , López de Munain Arantza , Vizcaíno Ana , del Barco Sonia , González-Flores Encarnación , Pollán Marina , Sánchez María-José
Published: December 2024

Introduction and aims

Women residing in lower socioeconomic status (SES) areas have lower breast cancer survival but it is not clear how differences in the quality of care received contribute to these disparities. We compared adherence to clinical practice guidelines (CPG) for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer and subsequent breast cancer survival between women residing in lower versus higher SES areas.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre population-based study of all new cases of invasive breast cancer in women diagnosed 2010–2014 in six Spanish provinces with population-based cancer registries (n=3206). Clinical data were extracted in the framework of the European Cancer High Resolution studies and vital status follow-up covered a minimum of 5 years. SES of the patient’s residence was measured with the 2011 Spanish Deprivation Index. Adherence to CPG was measured with 16 indicators based on European and Spanish guidelines. Relative survival was modelled using flexible parametric models.

Results

There were no differences in the type of treatment received but women living in the lowest SES areas were less likely to undergo a sentinel lymph node biopsy, reconstruction after mastectomy, surgery within 30 days after pathological diagnosis and adjuvant treatment within 6 weeks after surgery. After accounting for demographic and clinical factors, women residing in lower SES areas had higher risk of death, HR=1.57 (95% CI 1.04, 2.36). Further accounting for adherence to CPG in the model, in particular having undergone a sentinel lymph node biopsy, eliminated the significant effect of SES.

Conclusions

Despite the overall coverage of the Spanish health system, women living in more deprived areas were less likely to receive care in line with CPG and had shorter survival.
Clonazepam repurposing inARID1Bpatients through conventional RCT and N-of-1 trials: an experimental strategy for orphan disease development
Authors: van der Sluijs Pleuntje J , Safai Pour Koshar , Berends Cécile L , Kruizinga Matthijs D , Müller Annelieke R , van Eeghen Agnies M , Rodríguez-Girondo Mar , Juachon Maria J , Steenbeek Duco , Cohen Adam F , Zuiker Rob G J A , Santen Gijs W E
Published: December 2024

Background

Clinical trials for rare disorders have unique challenges due to low prevalence, patient phenotype variability and high expectations. These challenges are highlighted by our study on clonazepam inARID1Bpatients, a common cause of intellectual disability. Previous studies on Arid1b-haploinsufficient mice showed positive effects of clonazepam on various cognitive aspects.

Methods

This study used a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, two-way crossover study (RCT), followed by an N-of-1 design. In the crossover study,ARID1Bpatients received clonazepam (max 0.5 mg, two times per day) or a placebo for 22 days with a 3-week washout period. Assessments included safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics on neurocognitive tasks, behaviour and cognitive function. During phase I of the N-of-1 trial the optimal dosage and individual treatment goals were determined. Phase II evaluated the treatment effect. This phase was composed of three periods: an open-label period with placebo (4 weeks), followed by a double-blinded period (6 weeks), followed by an open-label period in which the patient received clonazepam (4 weeks).

Results

In the clonazepam group (n=16, 15 completing both periods), seven (44%) reported improvement on Clinician Global Impression of Improvement versus two (13%) on placebo. 13 (87%) showed ‘no change’ after placebo (two (13%) on clonazepam), while seven (44%) on clonazepam reported deterioration, often linked to side effects (n=6), suggesting potential benefit from lower dosing. Three N-of-1 trials with RCT responders saw two patients improve on clonazepam during double-blinding, but clinical evaluation deemed the improvements insufficient.

Conclusions

Our approach shows the feasibility and strength of combining conventional RCT and N-of-1 studies for therapeutic studies in populations with intellectual disabilities, distinguishing real treatment effects from expectation bias. Our findings suggest that clonazepam has no additional therapeutic value inARID1Bpatients.

Trial registration number

EUCTR2019-003558-98,ISRCTN11225608.
Congenital urinary tract anomalies are a variable finding associated with nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome
Authors: Harshe Isha , Donenberg Talia , Jeanjean Marie , Ramirez Castano Jesus , Fann Frankie , Feupe Fotsing Stephanie , Weyandt Jamie D , Hu Xiaolin , Dhir Aditi , Borja Nicholas A
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder classically associated with multiple basal cell carcinomas, odontogenic keratocysts and skeletal anomalies. However, its significant phenotypic heterogeneity often delays the diagnosis. Here, we undertake the first comprehensive characterisation of NBCCS and congenital urinary tract anomalies.

Methods

Clinical evaluation followed by genetic testing was performed on a proband with congenital hydronephrosis due to ureteropelvic obstruction. Then, a cohort of patients with molecularly confirmed NBCCS evaluated at a single institution was analysed, followed by a comprehensive review of the literature.

Results

The novel, non-canonical splice-site variant c.349+4 delA inPTCH1was detected in a proband, with RNA analysis confirming exon 2 skipping. Of the additional nine NBCCS cases examined at our institution, a second proband with a nonsense variant inPTCH1was identified with renal agenesis and a bladder diverticulum. A literature review then yielded 11 case reports of patients with congenital urinary tract anomalies, most frequently renal agenesis.

Discussion

Congenital urinary tract anomalies are a variable finding in NBCCS. Renal ultrasound may be warranted at the time of initial diagnosis, if not previously performed. Moreover,PTCH1should be included in multigene panels that assess for congenital urinary tract disorders.
Comparison of 1% chloroprocaine hydrochloride versus hyperbaric bupivacaine spinal in patients undergoing anorectal surgery in an ambulatory surgery center: a double-blind randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kim Seung W , Khandaker Rafi , Muse Iyabo O , Pulverenti Timothy , Goman Mikhail , Patel Jashvin , Yedlin Adam , Balikai Chandrappa P , Levine Rebecca , Choice Curtis , Montilla Medrano Elilary
Published: December 2024

Background

Preservative-free chloroprocaine is a promising spinal anesthetic for ambulatory surgeries, offering a short duration of action and minimal side effects, which promote faster recovery and discharge. Thus, this study aimed to compare chloroprocaine hydrochloride to the widely used bupivacaine as a spinal anesthetic in ambulatory anorectal surgeries. We hypothesized that chloroprocaine will lead to quicker recovery and discharge, supporting its use in the ambulatory surgical setting.

Methods

In this double-blind randomized controlled trial, 110 patients were randomized to 1% chloroprocaine or 0.75% bupivacaine treatment groups. Due to the inability to place a spinal anesthetic, five patients were excluded (one in chloroprocaine and four in bupivacaine groups). The co-primary endpoints were recovery time (defined as the time of motor and sensory function return), and time discharge criteria were met. The secondary endpoint was the onset of transient neurological symptoms (TNS).

Results

The chloroprocaine group had a significantly shorter time to meet discharge criteria (191.4±6.6 min) than the bupivacaine group (230.9±9.4 min; p=<0.001). There were no significant differences between interventions for recovery time. No TNS were recorded within 24 hours after the procedure for both groups.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated a significantly reduced time to meeting discharge criteria with chloroprocaine compared with bupivacaine without an increased risk of TNS. Our results support the use of chloroprocaine for spinal anesthesia in ambulatory anorectal surgeries.

Trial registration number

NCT03324984.
Physical activity, fatigue, kinesiophobia and quality of life: comparative study of prostate cancer survivors with healthy controls
Authors: Cihan Emine , Karalezli Ilknur , Pirincci Cansu Sahbaz , Cavdar Omer Faruk , Goger Yunus Emre , Aytar Aydan , Karalezli Giray
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To determine the distribution of prostate cancer (PCa) patients between physical activity and kinesiophobia, fatigue and quality of life, and to what extent PCa persists compared to healthy males.

Methods

Total of 118 males participated in the study. These participants were allocated into two groups: PCa group (n:59) and control group (n:59). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form was used to assess physical activity levels, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue Questionnaire (FACIT-F) was used for measuring fatigue, kinesiophobia was evaluated with the Kinesiophobia Causes Scale, and Functional Assessment of Cancer Treatment-Prostate Version questionnaire (FACT-P) was used to assess quality of life.

Results

PCa had significantly lower scores in moderate activity (p=0.005) and total physical activity (p=0.010) compared with the control. Scores for kinesiophobia in both biological (p=0.045) and psychological subparameters (p=0.001), as well as the total kinesiophobia score (p=0.003), were higher in PCa. The FACIT-F (p<0.001) and total FACT-P (p<0.001) score were significantly lower in PCa than the control.

Conclusion

Kinesiophobia in PCa is significantly influenced by both biological and psychological factors. Kinesiophobia negatively affects patients’ functional status and overall quality of life. Their well-being is shaped not only by their physical and emotional conditions but also by the quality of their family relationships. This multifaceted impact highlights the complex interaction between physical activity, functional abilities, emotional health and social dynamics in PCa. In addition to routine treatments for PCa patients, the development and implementation of a comprehensive rehabilitation programme may lead to significant improvements in their quality of life.
A Novel State Space Model with Dynamic Graphic Neural Network for EEG Event Detection
Authors: Li Xinying , Yan Shengjie , Wu Yonglin , Dai Chenyun , Guo Yao
Published: December 2024

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a widely used physiological signal to obtain information of brain activity, and its automatic detection holds significant research importance, which saves doctors’ time, improves detection efficiency and accuracy. However, current automatic detection studies face several challenges: large EEG data volumes require substantial time and space for data reading and model training; EEG’s long-term dependencies test the temporal feature extraction capabilities of models; and the dynamic changes in brain activity and the non-Euclidean spatial structure between electrodes complicate the acquisition of spatial information. The proposed method uses range-EEG (rEEG) to extract time-frequency features from EEG to reduce data volume and resource consumption. Additionally, the next-generation state-space model Mamba is utilized as a temporal feature extractor to effectively capture the temporal information in EEG data. To address the limitations of state space models (SSMs) in spatial feature extraction, Mamba is combined with Dynamic Graph Neural Networks, creating an efficient model called DG-Mamba for EEG event detection. Testing on seizure detection and sleep stage classification tasks showed that the proposed method improved training speed by 10 times and reduced memory usage to less than one-seventh of the original data while maintaining superior performance. On the TUSZ dataset, DG-Mamba achieved an AUROC of 0.931 for seizure detection and in the sleep stage classification task, the proposed model surpassed all baselines.
The influence of the railway industry on transport CO2 emissions under low–carbon background
Authors: Sun Haining , Li Keping , Ma Guangyi
Published: December 2024

As a low-carbon transport mode, the railway has a significant influence on transport CO2 emissions. This paper abstracts and quantifies the influence from a new perspective to explore the influence of the railway industry on transport CO2 emissions. Considering various influencing factors systematically, we establish the transport CO2 emissions correlation (TCEC) network based on the theory of complex networks. The superimposed influence diffusion (SID) model proposed in this paper can predict the future trend of the transport CO2 emissions through network evolution, which is different from traditional methods. The railway-related scenarios are designed to analyze the influence spread and the possibility of Beijing peaking the transport CO2 emissions before 2035. The research results show that the transport CO2 emissions reach a peak and then slowly decrease under four scenarios, while under other scenarios, the transport CO2 emissions keep growing unable to achieve a peak. The proposed methods can be extended to other areas, and the research findings have certain reference for making policies.
Novel optical soliton solutions using improved modified extended tanh function method for fractional beta time derivative (2+1)-dimensional Schrödinger equation
Authors: Soliman Mahmoud , Ahmed Hamdy M. , Badra Niveen , Samir Islam , Eslami Mostafa
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we present a novel approach for obtaining optical soliton solutions of the higher-order (2+1)-dimensional Schrödinger equation with a fractional beta time derivative. This model is significant as it accurately simulates complex physical phenomena such as the propagation of optical pulses in non-homogeneous media, which is crucial for advancing technologies in optical communications and information processing. The improved modified extended tanh method is employed to derive various types of solutions, including bright solitons, dark solitons, periodic solutions, and exponential solutions. The obtained solutions are graphically simulated for different values of [Formula: see text] to showcase the impact of the fractional derivative on the model and its relevance to real-world applications.
The second flavor of hydrogen atoms constitutes most of baryonic dark matter
Authors: Oks Eugene
Published: December 2024

The Second Flavor of Hydrogen Atoms (SFHAs) are hydrogen atoms that have only the S-states, these states being described by the second solution of the standard Dirac equation outside the proton. Their existence is evidenced by four different types of atomic/molecular experiments. The SFHA-based explanations of two perplexing astrophysical puzzles, i.e. of the abnormal absorption in the 21 cm spectral line from the early universe and of the less nubby dark matter distribution in the universe than predicted by the standard cosmology, made the SFHA a compelling candidate for the baryonic dark matter. In distinction to the overwhelming majority of dark matter hypotheses resorting to never discovered subatomic particles or to modifications of the existing physical laws, the SFHA, being based on the standard Dirac equation of quantum mechanics, does not go beyond the Standard Model of particle physics and does not require modifying the existing physical laws, which is why it is favored by the Occam razor principle. In the present paper, first, we show that the SFHA, as the candidate for the baryonic dark matter, does not contradict the known cosmological constraints. Second, based on the cosmological data we demonstrate that the SFHA seems to constitute most of the baryonic dark matter. We also refer to the latest results showing that neutron stars can slowly but continuously generate the baryonic dark matter in the form of the SFHA. Finally, we discuss/motivate some relevant future laboratory experiments and astrophysical observations.
A glimpse into an effective world
Authors: Coraggio Luigi , Itaco Nunzio
Published: December 2024

Our contribution aims to celebrate the immeasurable contribution that Tom Kuo has provided to the understanding of the structure of atomic nuclei, and also of the infinite nuclear matter, in terms of the fundamental principles governing the realistic nuclear potential. The authors want to testify Tom Kuo’s heritage and impact on their approach to the study of nuclear systems by reviewing some recent findings on the role of the two-body component of shell-model effective [Formula: see text]-decay operators. The focus is spotted on the so-called Pauli-blocking effect that plays a nonnegligible role in nuclei characterized by a large number of valence nucleons.
CP Conditions for GKSL-Like Master Equations
Authors: Watanabe Akane , Unoki Makoto , Nakazato Hiromichi , Suzuki Takayuki
Published: December 2024

Complete positivity (CP) of a quantum dynamical map (QDM) is, in general, difficult to show when its master equation (ME) does not conform to the Gorini-Kossakowski-Sudarshan-Lindblad (GKSL) form. The GKSL ME describes Markovian dynamics, comprising a unitary component with time-independent Hermitian operators and a nonunitary component with time-independent Lindblad operators and positive time-independent damping rates. Recently, non-Markovian dynamics have received growing attention, and the various types of GKSL-like MEs with time-dependent operators are widely discussed; however, rigorous discussions on their CP conditions remain limited. This paper presents conditions for QDMs to be CP, whose MEs take the GKSL-like form with arbitrary time dependence. One case considered is where its ME takes the time-local integro-differential GKSL-like form, which includes CP-divisible cases. Another case considered is where the ME is time-non-local but can be approximated to be time-local in the weak-coupling regime. As a special case of the time-non-local case, the same discussion holds for the time-convoluted GKSL-like form, which should be compared to previous studies.
Influence of Surface Rayleigh Waves on the Seismic Response of RC Buildings with Weak First-Story During the 2017 MW7.1 Puebla–Morelos Earthquake in Mexico City
Authors: Ruiz-García Jorge , Miranda Eduardo
Published: December 2024

The influence of surface Rayleigh waves (SRWs) on the seismic behavior of three archetype nonconforming reinforced concrete (RC) buildings including weak first story with four, six, and eight stories when subjected to earthquake ground motions (EQGMs) recorded during the strong September 19, 2017 [Formula: see text]7.1 earthquake in Mexico City, is discussed in this paper. For this purpose, ground acceleration time histories corresponding to the retrograde and prograde components of SRWs were extracted from EQGMs collected at the accelerographic stations placed at the transition and soft soil sites. It was found that the SWRs contribute to about 50% of the median maximum IDR demand (IDR[Formula: see text]) triggered by the as-recorded earthquake ground motions at the ground level of the four- and six-story building models, while their contribution is about 30% of IDR[Formula: see text] for the eight-story building model. It should be noted that that SRWs induce median IDR[Formula: see text] demands to the four-story building model larger than about 11% and 49% than those to the six- and eight-story models, respectively, for soft soil sites. Moreover, the prograde component can trigger IDR[Formula: see text] demands in the four-story building model larger than 73% and 45% than those for the six- and eight-story models, respectively, for the transition sites. Particularly, it was shown that SRWs induce median IDR[Formula: see text] demands in excess of 0.35% at the first level of the archetype building models, which is associated to the light cracking damage state of nonductile RC columns, and even in excess of IDR[Formula: see text] of 0.71% associated to the severe cracking damage state when the record-to-record variability is considered in the IDR[Formula: see text] demand (i.e. the 84th percentile of IDR[Formula: see text]. Although the earthquake ground motion component of the surface Rayleigh waves was negligible in the median IDR[Formula: see text], this study showed that the effect of the directionality of IDR[Formula: see text] is important for the CH84 station, where significant polarity of spectral ordinates was identified in previous studies.
Synaptic alterations in pyramidal cells following genetic manipulation of neuronal excitability in monkey prefrontal cortex
Authors: Gonzalez-Burgos Guillermo , Miyamae Takeaki , Nishihata Yosuke , Krimer Olga L. , Wade Kirsten , Fish Kenneth N. , Arion Dominique , Cai Zhao-Lin , Xue Mingshan , Stauffer William R. , Lewis David A.
Published: December 2024

The primate dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) displays unique in vivo activity patterns, but how in vivo activity regulates DLPFC pyramidal neuron (PN) properties remains unclear. We assessed the effects of in vivo Kir2.1 overexpression, a genetic silencing tool, on synapses in monkey DLPFC PNs. We show for the first time that recombinant ion channel expression successfully modifies the excitability of primate cortex neurons, producing effects on synaptic properties apparently different from those in the rodent cortex.
Reducing Cadmium in Cocoa (Theobroma cacao) Cultivars: Analysis of Advantages and Limitations of Different Strategies and Their Potential Application in Colombia
Authors: Villegas Claudia Lucumí , Quiroga Nathali Jiménez , Dávalos Andrés , Pizano Camila
Published: December 2024

The large global demand for cocoa positions this fruit as an agrifood product of great economic value, with high‐quality standards regarding its sensory and nutritional characteristics. Entities such as the Pollutants Panel of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Union (EU) have strictly regulated cadmium (Cd) content in cocoa‐based products and derivatives. Consequently, cocoa exports in countries such as Colombia could be threatened due to the high concentrations of Cd present in its soils. Therefore, there is a clear need for developing techniques that reduce Cd in the beans and in soils. This review analyzes two strategies utilized for its mitigation: (i) the selection of varieties by genotype (pure and hybrid cocoa) according to differences in their absorption, accumulation, and Cd translocation and (ii) the use of organic amendments such as biochar in soils. Studies have found significant differences in the uptake, accumulation, and translocation of Cd across cultivars. Although exclusively using low‐accumulator genotypes in crops offers a promising alternative, this strategy may be more suitable in the long term and its success will depend on future detailed studies. On the other hand, despite the negative consequences that may result from the long‐term use of biochar, there is evidence showing that it is effective in reducing Cd in soils, and thus an ideal short‐term solution that can be applied across the national territory.
A Retrospective Comparison of Aeroallergen Sensitization Among Different Allergic Diseases in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Yang Chao , Zeng Qingxiang , Lu Gen , Li Haipian , Liu Wenlong
Published: December 2024

Objective: Numerous studies have reported on the types of aeroallergen sensitization in various pediatric allergic diseases, but limited data compared the types of aeroallergen sensitization across different pediatric allergic diseases. The aim of this study is to explore the nature and significance of aeroallergen sensitization in diverse pediatric allergic conditions.

Methods: A comparative analysis was carried out on aeroallergen sensitization in children suffering from allergic diseases who visited the Otolaryngology, Respiratory, and Dermatology Departments between January 2019 and December 2023. The evaluation of the specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) response to various inhalant allergens was done using the ImmunoCAP 100 system.

Results: Mites remain the main aeroallergen for skin and respiratory allergic diseases, especially respiratory diseases. Dog dander, grass pollen, and mold are more common in skin allergic diseases. The differences in dog dander and grass pollen among the three groups are more pronounced in children aged 1–6, while the differences in fungi are more pronounced in children aged 7 years and above. Seasonal changes have a greater impact on the sensitization rates of cockroaches, grass pollen, and molds.

Conclusions: Our results demonstrate the distribution and differences of allergen types among common pediatric allergic diseases, providing a theoretical basis for preventing the development of different allergic diseases and avoiding aeroallergens.
Vitamin C–Based Gingival Depigmentation Versus Surgical Depigmentation: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Haque Aehad Ul , Lal Nand , Kaushal Shalini , Rastogi Pavitra , Singhal Rameshwari
Published: December 2024

Background: This study aimed at comparing gingival depigmentation by locally injected vitamin C with surgical depigmentation, in terms of effectiveness and patient acceptability.

Methods: Forty‐two patients presenting with ethnicity‐related hyperpigmentation were randomly divided into two groups, Group I (n = 21) was treated with locally injected vitamin C and Group II (n = 21) was treated by surgical depigmentation. The outcome was assessed using Gingival Pigmentation Index (GPI) and Skin Hyperpigmentation Index (SHI).

Results: Both the techniques were successful in treating gingival hyperpigmentation, but the patients who underwent vitamin C–based depigmentation showed significantly higher satisfaction with the treatment result, based on patient reported Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scoring.

Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it was concluded that locally injected vitamin C and surgical depigmentation are comparable in their effectiveness for treating gingival hyperpigmentation.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: CTRI/2023/02/050127.
Normal CT Anatomy, Morphometry, and Volumetry of the Skull in Urial Sheep (Ovis vignei)
Authors: Zehtabvar Omid , Masoudifard Majid , Abbasi Javad , Modarres Tonekabony Seyyed Hossein , Zamani Amin
Published: December 2024

The urial (OOR‐ee‐əl; Ovis vignei), also known as the arkars or shapo, is a wild sheep native to Central and South Asia. It is listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Considering the importance of this breed in the world and its extinction, there is a need to determine the anatomy of the head area or any other disease such as fractures, dental, and infectious diseases. Five adult healthy male urial sheep were used, which were mature in terms of age. After preparation, the fresh alive sheep were immediately examined using a helical computed tomography scanner. The morphometry of the skull of this sheep was studied using RadiAnt application. The volume calculation was performed automatically using the software available on the CT scan system (Syngo MMWP VE40A software). The sinuses observed in the skull of this breed included frontal, maxillary, lacrimal, palatine, and sphenoidal sinuses. The height, length, and width of the skull were measured as 15.32 ± 0.05, 23.89 ± 0.08, and 12.57 ± 0.05 cm, respectively. According to the results obtained from the volume of different parts of the head in urial sheep, the nasal cavity and the oral cavity constitute 7% and 6% of the head volume, respectively. This ratio was calculated as 0.5% in the case of the inner and middle ears. Determining the anatomical structures and morphometric and volumetric characteristics of Urial sheep, which is one of the endangered Asian breeds, was of particular importance in order to prepare the head and skull atlas.