bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WITHDRAWN: Amelioration of retinal injury and improvement in associated memory by hUCB-derived cells is dose-dependent
Authors: Mehra Priya , Rain Manjari , SINGH JAGTAR , Saha Pradip Kumar , ANAND AKSHAY
Published: September 2024

Background- The visual information transfers from retina to brain to amplify the neuronal signals resulting in visual perception. Damage in the retinal layer causes visual field defects such as cognition decline and memory loss. Although, various research investigations have attempted to reverse the damage using therapeutic interventions, however, these have not been successfully translated. In this study we aim to evaluate the efficacy of lineage negative stem cells derived from hUCB in reversing the retinal injury and visual memory by subretinal transplantation in mice model of laser injury.
Methods- Retinal injury was introduced in C57BL/6J male mice (24-28g) by using laser photocoagulation around the optic disc with defined parameters that disrupted the RPE layer of the retina. The 2 laser spots (2L) and 8 laser spots (8L) were created in each eye of the mice. The Fundus Fluorescein Angiography was used to confirm the establishment of varying degree of retinal injury. Around 50,000 stem cells were transplanted in each eye after 24 hours of laser injury. After 1 month, neurobehavioral assessments were carried out to estimate the visual-spatial memory using Morris Water Maze (MWM) and Passive Avoidance. Subsequently, the molecular assays including RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry were also undertaken.
Results- Fundus angiography confirmed presence of retinal vein leakage in the injury model in comparison to healthy control. To identify the cognitive deficits, the neurobehavioral assessments, based on Morris water maze and passive avoidance, were performed. The neurobehavioral tests show learning and cognitive improvement in the stem cell group in comparison to the injury group. Further, gene expression of neurotrophic factors, proliferative and apoptotic factors showed upregulated neuronal activity and possible neuroprotective role in rescue of retinal injury in stem cell group.
Conclusion-The Lin –ve stem cells rescued the injury and reversed the visual memory and retinal injury. The study shows that, with degree of injury, the number of lin –ve stem cells should be increased.
Unveiling the conversion mechanism of glioblastoma from the mesenchymal to the proneural subtype driven by HDAC1/p-SMAD3-TP53I11 axis
Authors: Zhao Kai , Zhao Hai , Shang Rui , Liang Hua , Wang Chao , Zhu Meng , Chen Wujun
Published: September 2024

Mesenchymal glioblastoma (MES GBM) is characterized by rapid proliferation, extensive invasion, and formidable treatment resistance. Addressing these characteristics in MES cells is crucial for improving patient prognosis. Here, we discovered the MES GBM subtype conversion mechanism driven by HDAC1/p-SMAD3-TP53I11 in this study. First, the impact of HDAC1 inhibitors and bevacizumab on the phenotypic characteristics of MES cells was assessed. Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and immunofluorescence techniques elucidated the epigenetic mechanism of HDAC1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) and RNA-seq identified downstream transcribed genes. We found Inhibition or knockdown of HDAC1 transformed MES characteristics into proneural (PN) characteristics, prolonged survival in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, and suppressed in vitro cell proliferation and invasion. RG2833 (an HDAC1 inhibitor) was found to enhance histone acetylation, promoting the binding of the transcription factor p-SMAD3 to the genome. Immunoprecipitation experiments revealed an interaction between p-SMAD3 and HDAC1. RNA-seq and ChIP-seq data analysis from MES cell lines before and after RG2833 treatment identified Tumor Protein P53 Inducible Protein 11 (TP53I11) as a downstream gene. The study indicates that by intervening HDAC1/p-SMAD3-TP53I11, HDAC1 can serve as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of MES GBM.
Suitable ecological niches of invasive malaria vector under present and projected climatic conditions in South of Iran
Authors: Abbasi Madineh , Yaghoobi-Ershadi Mohammad Reza , Hanafi-Bojd Ahmad Ali
Published: September 2024

Background Unfortunately, the resurgence of malaria occurred in Iran after three years of free malaria conditions, from 2022. Efforts to control malaria through surveillance, diagnosis, treatment and prevention measures have shown progress, but climate change may pose challenges to these efforts, potentially increasing the epidemic potential of malaria in susceptible regions. The research look for to predict the current and future geographical range and suitability ofAnopheles stephensimosquitoes in southern Iran. This information is important for assessing the risk of disease transmission and developing successful strategies for controlling these vectors in the future. Method The study compiled a database ofAn. stephensifindings in Hormozgan province based on field studies and utilized various scientific databases to gather relevant data. Geographical coordinates and distribution data of the species were employed for mapping and forecasting its spread under current and future climate conditions. A total of 19 bioclimatic variables were used for ecological niche prediction by the Maximum Entropy Model. The MaxEnt software was employed to evaluate potential changes in the spatial distribution ofAn. stephensiin the future, with the model's performance assessed using ROC analysis and AUC values. ResultsAnopheles stephensidistribution in Hormozgan province was studied over the past three decades, with 101 locations reported. The MaxEnt model predicts changes in distribution under different climate scenarios. The model's strong performance was demonstrated by ROC analysis, with AUC values ranging from 0.81 to 0.85 for training data and 0.62 to 0.72 for test data. Five key bioclimatic variables were identified, with Isothermality being the most impactful. The study highlights the significant influence of the Mean Temperature of the Driest Quarter. The modeling outcomes indicate that roughly 19–27% of the province's territory has a significant likelihood of An. stephensi thriving and expanding. Discussion The model suggests that 19–27% of the province's land is highly conducive toAn. stephensi, with concentrated areas of suitability in the western part of Minab County. The study emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps to tackle the effects of climate change on diseases carried by vectors, such as malaria.
TERT Promoter Mutations Combined with TP53 Mutations as Potential Biomarkers for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Recurrence and Prognosis
Authors: Li Jin , Bai Ling , Xin Zhaodan , Song Jiajia , Chen Hao , Song Xingbo , Zhou Juan
Published: September 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent form of liver cancer, and ranks among the most lethal malignancies globally, primarily due to its high rates of recurrence and metastasis. Despite the urgency, no reliable biomarkers currently exist for predicting tumor recurrence in HCC. Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations (TERTpm) and cellular tumor antigen p53 mutations (TP53m) have been frequently documented in HCC, but their combined clinical significance remains undefined. In this study, we investigated the clinical implications of TERTpm, TP53m, and their co-occurrence in 50 HCC tissue samples using the next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology. We identified TERTpm (C228T) and TP53m in 16 (32%) and 24 (48%) samples, respectively. Our findings indicate that these mutations are more prevalent in male patients (100% for TERTpm, 83.33% for TP53m), in those with solitary tumors (87.5% for both), in individuals with G2-G3 hepatitis (100% / 83.3%), and in cases of moderately differentiated tumors (75.0% / 83.3%). Furthermore, patients with both TERTpm and TP53m exhibited a significantly higher risk of tumor relapse (P < 0.05) and shorter progression-free survival (P < 0.05). Collectively, our results suggest that presence of both TERTpm and TP53m may serve as a robust predictor of tumor recurrence and a marker of poor prognosis in HCC.
Metabolic syndrome modulates risk of endometrial cancer regardless of menopause status- A UK BIOBANK Study
Authors: Karkia Rebecca , Maccarthy Gideon , Payne Annette , Karteris Emmanouil , Pazoki Raha , Chatterjee Jayanta , Karkia Rebecca
Published: September 2024

Background
This study investigates the association between endometrial cancer (EC) risk and features of metabolic syndrome (MetS) using the UK Biobank.
Methods
Univariate and multivariate analysis of EC risk and features of MetS including serum biochemistry were analysed. Subgroup analysis was also undertaken for pre- and post-menopausal participants.
Results
203,644 females from the UK Biobank were included in this study. 49,071 (43.8%) met the met the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) definition of MetS and in these females the risk of EC was almost threefold higher (OR = 2.67; 95%CI:2.41–2.96, P < 0.0001). Of those participants who developed EC (n = 1632), Waist circumference > 80cm, BMI > 30kg/m2, hypertension > 130/80mmHg and hyperlipidaemia or diabetes were significantly associated with increased risk of EC. BMI > 30 kg/m2 alone was associated with threefold higher risk and BMI > 40 kg/m2 a ninefold higher risk. Associations remained significant in pre and postmenopausal subgroups. Treatment for hypertension, hyperlipidaemia or diabetes was associated with EC risk in univariate analysis but did not remain significant in multivariate analysis. Having abnormal lipid profile, fasting hyperglycaemia or hypertension significantly increased the risk of EC after correction for confounding factors.
Conclusion
Features of MetS, both independently and in combination, significantly increase the risk of EC. Screening those with obesity for MetS, in pre-menopausal years may help to identify those at highest risk.
A Comparative Study of transurethral 450 nm DiLVP and 1470 nm DiLEP in the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Wang Zhichao , Xing Qingfei , Huang Zhongxian , Gao Xinghua , Qiu Mengzhen , Zhang Longyang
Published: September 2024

Objective
To compare the clinical effects of 450 nm diode laser vaporisation of the prostate (450 nm DiLVP) and 1470 nm diode laser enucleation of the prostate (1470 nm DiLEP) in the surgical treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH).
Methods
BPH patients who were treated with 450 nm DiLVP or 1470 nm DiLEP in the Department of Urology of Jinan Central Hospital from November in 2021 to November in 2023 were selected for retrospective analysis. The assessment indexes included: (1) Preoperative general information; (2) Perioperative indicators; (3) Postoperative follow-up indicators(followed up at 1 and 3 months after surgery).
Results
A total of 128 BPH patients were included in the study, 63 in the experimental group with 450 nm DiLVP and 65 in the control group with 1470 nm DiLEP. There was no significant difference in the baseline information between the two groups (P > 0.05). Compared with the 1470 nm DiLEP group, the operation time, the laser energy consumption and bladder irrigation time were significantly reduced in the 450 nm DiLVP group (P < 0.001). At 3 months postoperatively, Qmax relief was significant in the 1470 nm DiLEP group (P = 0.023).
Conclusions
(1)Perioperatively, compared with the 1470 nm DiLEP, 450 nm DiLVP has shorter operation time, irrigation time, and laser energy consumption; (2)Postoperative follow-up: 450 nm DiLVP and 1470 nm DiLEP have similar efficacy in improving BPH symptoms; 1470 nm DiLEP may have greater impact on max urinary flow rate in long-tem follow-up, which needs further verification.
Research on Intervention Strategies and Neural Mechanisms for Competence Frustration: A Case of Fire Rescue Personnel
Authors: WANG Yarong , ZHANG Runyu , Liu Ying , Jie REN
Published: September 2024

Background
With the rapid development of knowledge economy society and the sudden increase of social pressure, people in all walks of life generally suffer competency need frustration. Fire rescue personnel as a typical high-load, high-pressure, high-risk occupation, are easily suffering competence need frustrated. Therefore, this study chooses fire rescue personnel as the research object, aims to accurately measure the level of competence frustration and what measures to take to alleviate the negative effects of competence frustration.
(2) Methods: 20 graduate students were selected to verify the effect of frontal lobe α asymmetry (FAA) as a judgement of the competence frustration level using an EEG experimental method. On this basis, through two stopwatch stopping experiments, 72 fire rescue personnel were selected to conduct the experiments to investigate the intervention effects of developmental feedback and compassion-focused therapy.
(3) Results: Frontal α asymmetry could be used as an EEG indicator for judging competence frustration, and the compassion-focused therapy intervention reduced the level of competence frustration of the participants, while the developmental feedback intervention improved the level of competence frustration of the participants.
(4) Conclusions: The difference in the effects of the two intervention methods indicates that when intervening in competence frustration, it is easier to reduce competence frustration by focusing on the subjects themselves than by focusing on the completion of the task.
Preventive effect of PC-SOD on oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy in rats
Authors: Qiao Zhiwei , Akimoto Shouta , Kaji Noriko , Fukuda Koichiro , Mizushima Tohru
Published: September 2024

Oxaliplatin is widely used as a chemotherapeutic agent for treating various cancers, including colorectal cancer. However, oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy diminishes the quality of life of patients and leads to a reduction in the chemotherapy dose or even early discontinuation. Thus, the development of preventive or therapeutic drugs for oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy is urgently needed and may enhance its therapeutic effect. Herein, we aimed to investigate whether PC-SOD, a derivative of SOD with higher stability in the plasma and higher affinity for tissues, could prevent oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy. A neurite outgrowth assay using cultured PC12 cells and a rat model of oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy were used to elucidate the neuroprotective effects of PC-SOD. PC-SOD effectively attenuated oxaliplatin-induced neurite damage in cultured PC12 cells. In a rat model, PC-SOD reduced oxaliplatin-induced mechanical allodynia, cold hyperalgesia, and morphological damage to intraepidermal nerve fibres and dorsal root ganglion. Furthermore, PC-SOD did not affect the anti-tumour effects of oxaliplatin in cultured tumour cells or in tumour cell-implanted mice. These findings indicated that PC-SOD alleviated oxaliplatin-induced mechanical allodynia, cold hyperalgesia, and neural damage without affecting the antitumor activity of oxaliplatin. Therefore, PC-SOD is a promising drug candidate for the prevention of oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy.
Allogeneic CD34+ hematopoietic stem cell boost for prolonged severe cytopenias following CAR T-cell therapy in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. A retrospective analysis on behalf of the Spanish Group for Hematopoietic Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (GETH-TC)
Authors: Molinos-Quintana Águeda , Martinez-Cibrian Nuria , Alonso-Saladrigues Anna , Galán Victor , Bailén Rebeca , Buendía-López Susana , Fuentes Carolina , Kwon Mi , González-Vincent Marta , de Soto Concepción Pérez , Gonzalez Berta , rives s , Pérez-Hurtado José María , Ortiz-Maldonado Valentin , Pérez-Simón José A
Published: September 2024

Hematological toxicity is the most common long-term adverse event after CAR T-cell therapy. Severe cytopenias not resolving over time may result in life-threatening infection or bleeding and the best clinical practice to treat this persisting cytopenias after CAR-T is not well established. Eleven heavily pretreated patients with B-ALL and prolonged cytopenia after CAR-T therapy were successfully treated with an allogeneic CD34+ hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) boost. The median time from CAR T-cell infusion to donor CD34+ HSC boost was 2.8 months and median CD34+ selected dose was 4 x106/kg of recipient weight. The median time to hematological recovery in all three cell lineages was 20 days (range 12–60). One-year event free survival was significantly different for patients relapsing before 6 months post-transplantation (14.3%) vs after 6 months post-transplantation (75%). With a median follow-up after HSC boost of 12 months, overall survival (OS) at 24 months was 31.2% with a median OS of 21 months (95% CI 6.2–35.7). All causes of death were related to disease relapse. In conclusion, we confirm that allogeneic CD34+ HSC boost is an effective and safe therapeutic option that should be considered in patients with primary poor graft function persisting beyond 60–90 days after CAR-T
Graft-Repositioning Technique Using Infusion and Small Bubbles During Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty
Authors: Shimizu Toshiki , Oyakawa Itaru , Tomida Daisuke , Yokogawa HIdeaki , Kobayashi Akira , Yamagami Satoru , Hayashi Takahiko
Published: September 2024

Background: Descemet's membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) is a highly effective procedure for corneal endothelial dysfunction; however, once a DMEK graft is deployed, repositioning can be challenging. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a technique that utilizes infusion and small air bubbles to reposition a misaligned deployed graft.
Methods: This retrospective interventional case series enrolled patients who underwent DMEK between January 2022 and July 2023, including cases where the DMEK graft was attached and unfolded in off-center positions". Experienced surgeons performed DMEK by inserting an infusion cannula and positioning a small bubble in the anterior chamber after the graft unfolded off-center. The eye was tilted in a deviated direction, and the cornea was massaged from the corneal limbus to the center using a 27-gauge blunt needle. Before and after DMEK, we measured the best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), central corneal thickness (CCT), and endothelial cell density (ECD). Additionally, we monitored the incidence of postoperative complications.
Results: Six eyes of six patients were included in this study. Postoperatively, the overall BSCVA and CCT of the eyes improved (P<0.001). However, one eye developed recurrent uveitis and required a sub-Tenon’s capsule triamcinolone acetonide injection. No eyes required re-bubbling, and no instances of primary graft failure were observed.
Conclusion: The described technique enables the safe and feasible repositioning and unfolding of the DMEK graft.
Newly Diagnosed Essential Thrombocythemia Leading to Cardiogenic Shock: A Case Report
Authors: Patel Ravi , DeRon Nathan
Published: September 2024

Background
Essential thrombocythemia (ET) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by uninhibited platelet production. It can present with vasomotor symptoms, and less commonly, severe thrombotic events such as myocardial infarction. ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) secondary to the hypercoagulable state in ET is a diagnostic challenge as the complication is rare, especially outside the typical demographics affected by ET such as the female and elderly populations.
Case Presentation:
A 32-year-old male presented to the emergency department with chest pain. On admission, the patient’s platelet count was 1,244,000 platelets/µL. A clinical diagnosis of STEMI was made by electrocardiogram, and the patient underwent emergent cardiac catheterization with placement of an Impella. Angiographic findings revealed a 100% flush occlusion of the ostial left anterior descending (LAD) artery and 80% occlusion of the ostial left circumflex artery (LCA) with thrombus. Successful percutaneous coronary intervention of the ostial LAD with a drug-eluting stent and balloon angioplasty of the ostial LCA was performed with full restoration of blood flow. He was initiated on aspirin and ticagrelor. The patient’s condition was complicated by cardiogenic shock for which the Impella remained in place. Subsequent transthoracic echocardiogram showed a left ventricular ejection fraction of 20–25%. Due to the patient’s markedly elevated platelet count, there was concern for possible underlying ET. A PCR assay on peripheral blood isolated from the patient was positive for a JAK2 V617F mutation. The patient was slowly weaned off the Impella over five days, and once he was hemodynamically and clinically stable, he was initiated on hydroxyurea and discharged with a wearable cardioverter defibrillator. Cardiac rehabilitation was planned.
Conclusions
This case illustrates the potential for severe thrombotic complications such as STEMI due to ET. Severe thrombotic complications are less common manifestations of ET in general, particularly in young males. Recognition and diagnosis of ET are critical for the institution of appropriate therapy and prevention of STEMI and cardiogenic shock among other complications.
Application of Multi-Source Remote Sensing Fusion for Identifying Smoke Fugitive Channels in the Sulabulak Fire Area, Urumqi, China
Authors: Yang Zhicheng , Zeng Qiang
Published: September 2024

Underground coal fires are a pervasive global environmental issue, especially in coal-rich regions, causing significant environmental damage, safety hazards, and economic losses. These fires release smoke containing carbon dioxide and other harmful gases, exacerbating climate change. This study presents a novel comprehensive analysis method using multi-source remote sensing technology to detect smoke fugitive channels caused by coal fires. We utilized 29 Landsat-8 satellite images of the Sulabulak fire area in China to retrieve vegetation coverage (FVC) and land surface temperature (LST), identifying sparse vegetation and high-temperature anomaly areas. Additionally, 135 dual-polarized Sentinel-1A images were used to obtain surface deformation through SBAS-InSAR and PS-InSAR techniques. The integration of these datasets, validated by field survey data, revealed a high degree of overlap between the identified smoke fugitive channels and subsidence areas. Our results demonstrate an annual increase in sparse vegetation areas, high-temperature anomalies, and ground subsidence, indicating intensified coal fire combustion and expanding smoke fugitive channels. This method's effectiveness in identifying coal fire areas underscores its potential for enhancing coal fire monitoring and management, contributing to more accurate carbon emission estimates and improved mitigation strategies.
Indigenous knowledge of browse species and nutritional quality of dominant Indigenous browses species in the Kavango West Region of Namibia
Authors: Hamukwaya Rosa N. , Charamba Vonai , Kahumba Absalom , Shipandeni Maria N. T , Mupangwa Johnfisher
Published: September 2024

Livestock production is crucial to the livelihoods of rural Namibians but highly constrained by feed shortages due to climate change and bush encroachment. The study investigated the grazing and feeding practices and indigenous knowledge of browsable and non-browsable species by interviewing 30 small-scale farmers in the Kavango West Region. It assessed the nutritive value for the three most commonly identified browsable species. The study observed that livestock relies on communal rangeland, roadside, and riverside grazing, with supplements from crop residues during the dry seasons. However, most farmers experience feed shortages mainly in the dry season, which results in decreased livestock productivity. Farmers are knowledgeable on browsable and non-browsable woody species in their locality, but most do not harvest pods, leaves and twigs to supplement their animals in the dry season, citing labour shortage, and they are not aware that the bush species resources can be harvested and be used during seasons when feed resources are scarce. The nutritive value analysis indicated that there is a need for strategic supplementation of the browsable species for them to be effectively utilised as livestock feed, thus farmers must be capacitated on when and how to utilise these species when herbaceous pasture grasses and legumes are senescent as well as how to harvest forage alongside rivers and roads for stall feeding to avoid accidents. Our findings will be important for policy formulation in trying to come up with better ways of mitigating the consequences of climate change.
Lumbar lordosis correction loss following lateral lumbar interbody fusion for adult spinal deformity
Authors: Lee Ki Young , Lee Jung-Hee , Jung Cheol-Hyun , Han Gil , Kim Jae-Ho , Ko Jae-Hyeock
Published: September 2024

Although multilevel lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) with posterior column osteotomy (PCO) can achieve the similar effect as pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) and the incidence of rod fracture (RF) is low, the risk of RF still remains. We noticed that correction loss often precedes RFs. To evaluate the correction loss after surgery in adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients, we retrospectively analyzed the CT scans of 89 ASD patients (average 71.5 years) with a minimum 2-year follow up. The intervertebral disc (IVD) angle from T12 to S1 were measured, comparing those with a decrease of 5° or more in lumbar lordosis (LL) at 2 years (correction loss group, n = 23) to those without a decrease (non-correction loss group, n = 63). The IVD angles in the L2-3, L4-5, L5-S1 showed significant differences immediately after surgery and at 1 year after surgery. RF incidence was 25.8% (23/89 cases). LL correction loss more than 5° was associated with RF (p < .001, OR = 7.28). The LL correction loss showed a distributed pattern with a decrease in each IVD angles. LL correction loss was closely associated with RF and can be seen as a danger signal of RF, so additional support should be considered to prevent correction loss and RF.
Incidence, Associated Risk Factors, and Outcomes of Postoperative Anxiety in Elderly: a retrospective study
Authors: Guo Hao , Li Li-Heng , Lv Xiao-Hong , Xiao Fei , Xie Yu-Bo
Published: September 2024

Background
Research on postoperative anxiety (POA), especially in elderly, is limited. The relevance of POA for patients’ outcomes is unknown. We aimed to ascertain the incidence, identify potential risk factors and investigate the immediate outcomes of POA.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study analyzed elderly who underwent surgery in our hospital between May 1, 2020, and March 31, 2021. Perioperative anxiety was evaluated with the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire-7. A multivariable logistic regression was used to assess associations between perioperative data and occurrence of POA.
Results
A total of 308 patients were analyzed. POA was recorded in 160 patients within 7 days after surgery (51.9%). The incidence of POA was associated with worsened postoperative sleep quality (PSQ) and pain. Preoperative anxiety (OR, 3.60; 95% CI, 1.76–7.40) and preoperative sleep disturbance (OR, 3.34; 95% CI, 1.82–6.13) were identified as independent risk factors of POA. Patients who developed POA exhibited significantly higher 24 h pain VAS scores and worsen PSQ scores on postoperative day 1, 2 and 3. Anxiety at 30 and 90 days after surgery was significantly increased compared with those without POA.
Conclusion
Our study indicates that POA is prevalent and associated with immediate postoperative outcomes.
Development and validation of a functional ex vivo paclitaxel and eribulin sensitivity assay for breast cancer, the REMIT assay
Authors: Gent Dik van , Komar Zofia , Verkaik Nicole , Dahmani Ahmed , Montaudon Elodie , Kanaar Roland , Houtsmuller Adriaan , Jager Agnes , Marangoni Elisabetta
Published: September 2024

Breast cancer is the most common cancer amongst women worldwide, however clinically validated chemotherapy response biomarkers that can accurately predict treatment response in patients are largely lacking. Therefore, in this study, functional paclitaxel and eribulin ex vivo sensitivity assays were developed. Patient derived xenograft (PDX) models were used to compare the ex vivo predicted treatment outcome with the sensitivity of mice in vivo. We validated the previously developed sensitivity assay for paclitaxel, which is based on the ratio between replicating (EdU) and mitotic (phospho-Histone H3; pH3) cells as a proxy for blocked mitosis. The assay showed 90% correlation between the ex vivo and in vivo response to paclitaxel treatment in the PDX models. We propose the term REMIT (REplication MITosis) assay and show that it is also a suitable test to predict eribulin sensitivity. The reproducibility of the REMIT assay for paclitaxel and eribulin was determined to be 80% and 83%, respectively. These results justify further clinical validation of the REMIT assay in breast cancer patients.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Auditory Temporal Resolution Based on Mandarin
Authors: Wang Yan , Hu Yuanjia , Pan Yunyun , Wang Yaowen , Liu Yuhe
Published: September 2024

Objective:
This study examines the correlation between the temporal resolution of the auditory system and speech recognition in noise based on Mandarin. It also explores the impact of various factors on the temporal resolution abilities in the elderly.
Methods:
A total of 170 participants were included in this research. The control group consisted of 30 young individuals with normal hearing thresholds, while the experimental group comprised 30 elderly individuals aged 60 and above with mild to moderately severe hearing loss and 20 elderly individuals who wore hearing aids. Tests conducted included the Gaps in Noise (GIN) test for auditory temporal resolution and the Mandarin Quick Speech-in-Noise test (M-QuickSIN), from which Gap Detection Threshold (GDT) scores and SNR loss scores were derived. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 25.0.
Results:
The differences between GDT and M-QuickSIN scores were statistically significant (p < 0.05) in the moderate and moderately severe hearing loss and hearing aid wearing elderly groups. Significant statistical differences in GDT were also observed between the normal hearing young group and the normal hearing elderly group, as well as between the normal hearing elderly group and the elderly with moderate to moderately severe hearing loss (P < 0.05). Notably, significant differences in GDT before and after the use of hearing aids were observed in the same elderly individuals (P < 0.001).
Conclusion:
Increasing age, degree of hearing loss, and M-QuickSIN scores significantly influence GDT outcomes. Long-term use of hearing aids decreases GDT and enhances speech recognition capabilities in noise. When subjects are unable to perform speech audiometry clinically, the GIN test should be considered for diagnostic reference.
Clinical Utilization and Infrastructure of Radiation Therapy in Korea in 2020 and 2021
Authors: Kang Jin-Kyu , Jang Won Il , Kim Mi-Sook , Kim Eunji , Kim Hee Jin , Yoon Jaesun , Shin Young-Joo , Kim Jongwoo , Kim Kum-Bae
Published: September 2024

Background
Radiation therapy (RT) is a critical component in the treatment of cancer, alongside surgery and chemotherapy. Monitoring RT utilization (RTU) rates and infrastructure of RT trends provides valuable information on cancer care. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical status of RT, including the RTU rate and infrastructure of RT in Korea in 2020 and 2021.
Methods
Patient data for individuals undergoing RT in 2020 and 2021 were sourced from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (HIRA). Through the data from the HIRA, we assessed the following aspects: the total number of patients who received RT in 2020 and 2021, the RTU rate for patients with cancer, the RTU rate by cancer diagnosis, the number of RT patients by age, the RT rate by region, the rate of hypofractionated RT for breast cancer, and RT ratio by specific RT modality. The RT infrastructure and human resources were analyzed using data from the Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences Dosimetry Lab and a nationwide survey.
Results
In 2020 and 2021, 90,351 and 97,840 patients, respectively, underwent RT in Korea, indicating an annual increase in treatment frequency. The RTU rates for patients with cancer were 32.8% in 2020 and 31.7% in 2021. Breast, lung, prostate, colorectal, and liver cancers were the most commonly treated types, with prostate cancer showing the most rapid growth in RTU rate among cancer types. The adoption of intensity-modulated RT is swiftly replacing conventional RT, and there continues to be a concentration of RT services in Seoul. Hypofractionated RT for breast cancer saw a steady increase, with rates rising from 23.5% in 2017 to 38.6% in 2020. As the total number of patients receiving RT increased, the number of RT centers, RT machines, and human resources in radiation oncology departments nationwide also steadily increased.
Conclusion
The study’s data present the clinical status of RT in Korea during 2020 and 2021. The number of patients undergoing RT in Korea shows ongoing growth, accompanied by corresponding expansions in RT infrastructure.
Outcomes with Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Therapy Related Myeloid Neoplasms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shahzad Moazzam , Amin Muhammad Kashif , Khalid Muhammad Fareed , Kasaeian Amir , Oskouie Iman , Basharat Ahmad , Butt Atif , Zaidi Maheen , Anwar Iqra , Mushtaq Muhammad
Published: September 2024

In this meta-analysis and systematic review, 7785 patients from 33 original studies reporting outcomes of therapy- related myeloid neoplasms (t-MN) including therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia (t-AML) and therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome (t-MDS) were included. The survival data were retrieved from Kaplan-Meier (KM) curves to calculate the overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) probabilities. 67.3% (n = 5241) of the patients had t-AML. 26.5% (n = 2076) had t-MDS, and 6% had a mixed presentation (n = 468). The age of the patients ranged from 2 to 89 years and 61.7% were females. The pooled median OS was 16.9 months (95% CI: 13.7–21.1) and the estimated mean OS was 46.0 months (95% CI: 42.1–49.6). The pooled median DFS was 8.8 months (95% CI: 7.4–11.2) and mean DFS was 37.8 months (95% CI: 33.4–41.9). The pooled proportion of acute graft versus host disease (aGvHD) was 34% (95% CI: 0.35–0.45, I2: 91.71%, p < 0.0001). Relapse of the myeloid neoplasm was the most common cause of mortality, followed by infections, relapse of the underlying disease, and GvHD. Despite complications, allo-HCT is still the curative treatment option with better outcomes compared to conventional chemotherapy in t-MN. Timely transplants in carefully selected patients with post-HCT interventions could improve outcomes.
Influence of Processing Parameters on Microstructure and Electrical Properties of ZnO-Based Varistor Ceramics
Authors: Hassan Muhammad , Hussain Muddassar , Nigah Azaz , Ali Muhammad , Amin Muhammad Abid , Arslan Muhammad
Published: September 2024

ZnO-based are the most common amongst varistors, used for surge protection of electrical equipment. The effect of sintering parameters, such as sintering temperature, ramp rate and soaking time on microstructure development and V-I characteristics of ZnO-based varistor ceramics doped with various oxide additives (Bi2O3, MnO3, Co2O3.etc) was studied. The results from the experiments exhibit that phase concentration, microstructure and electrical properties can be varied upon change in above said parameters. Soaking time at the sintering temperature has a little effect on microstructure and properties, however, higher sintering temperatures for prolong times widely affect phase concentrations, especially the Bi2O3-rich phases. Varistor voltage exhibited a reverse relation with sintering temperature while leakage current was reduced remarkably on slowing down the ramp rate at temperatures higher than 950 ̊C. Best results were obtained on slower heating rates and lower soaking times with sintering temperature of 1220 ̊C.
A Diversified Integrated Model for Seasonal Product Demand Prediction
Authors: Bin Liu , Hao Ding , Qiaoyun Yun
Published: September 2024

Product demand forecasting is the core link of an intelligent supply chain. The article discusses the demand characteristics of seasonal fast-moving consumer goods and presents a diversified stacked regression model (RXOEL-X) that combines linear and multi-machine learning models. This model utilizes a model stacking strategy and adopts the ElasticNet model, combined with L1 and L2 regularization to handle complex relationships in the data and prevent overfitting. Empirical evaluation using real data from leading beverage companies demonstrates the model's superiority over other time series forecasting techniques in demand forecasting for smart supply chains.
Quality optimization of liquid silicon lenses based on sequential approximation optimization and radial basis function networks
Authors: Chang Hanjui , Lu Shuzhou , Sun Yue , Lan Yuntao
Published: September 2024

In order to obtain competitive advantages in terms of product cost and quality, this study proposes a multi-objective optimization method based on sequential approximation optimization and radial basis function networks. In the optimization process, the radial basis function network replaces the finite element reanalysis and allows the construction of an approximate functional relationship between quality and process conditions. In this study, injection molding of objects was simulated and analyzed while varying the filling time, melt temperature, mold temperature, curing pressure, and curing time schemes to better understand the aspects affecting the optimization process. Using the automobile optical liquid silicone lens as an example, the Pareto boundary is used to determine the residual stress and volume shrinkage, as well as the deviation function and radial basis function network. Because numerical simulations are time-consuming, the radial basis function sequential approximation optimization method is applied. The product had the highest quality when the filling time was 1.57s, the melt temperature was 27.18°C, the mold temperature was 150°C, the curing time was 20.02s, and the curing pressure was 28.79 MPa, according to numerical results. Experiments were carried out to test the efficacy of the proposed approach. Nondestructive analysis is used to determine the target values (residual stress and volume shrinkage). Because nondestructive testing does not damage materials, workpieces, or buildings, the inspection rate of items can be quite high following nondestructive testing. Furthermore, numerical and experimental data demonstrate that the technique effectively reduces residual stress and volume shrinkage.
A hybrid Transformers-based convolutional neural network model for keratoconus detection in Scheimpflug-based dynamic corneal deformation videos
Authors: Abdelmotaal Hazem , Hazarbasanov Rossen , Salouti Ramin , Nowrouzzadeh Hossein , Taneri Suphi , Al-Timemy Ali , Lavric Alexandru , Takahashi Hidenori , Yousefi Siamak
Published: September 2024

Objective
To assess the performance of a hybrid Transformer-based convolutional neural network (CNN) model for automated detection of keratoconus in stand-alone Scheimpflug-based dynamic corneal deformation videos (DCDV).
Design
Retrospective cohort study.
Methods
We used transfer learning for feature extraction from DCDVs. These feature maps were augmented by self-attention to model long-range dependencies before classification to directly identify keratoconus. Model performance was evaluated by objective accuracy metrics based on DCDVs from two independent cohorts with 275 and 546 subjects.
Main outcome measures:
Area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC), accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, and F1 score.
Results
The sensitivity and specificity of the model in detecting keratoconus were 93% and 84%, respectively. The AUC of the keratoconus probability score based on the external validation database was 0.97.
Conclusions
The hybrid Transformer-based model was highly sensitive and specific in discriminating normal from keratoconic eyes using DCDV(s) at levels that may prove useful in clinical practice.
Translational Relevance
The hybrid Transformer-based model can detect keratoconus from non-invasive corneal videos directly without requiring corneal topography or tomography exhibiting potential application in corneal research and clinical practice.
Overexpression of NAC transcription factors from the desert ephemeral plant Eremopyrum triticeum promoted abiotic stress tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Zhong Xue-Ni , Peng Jun-Jie , Wang Meng-Yao , Yang Xiu-Li , Sun Li
Published: September 2024

Eremopyrum triticeum is a typical spring ephemeral species, which in China mainly distributed in the desert regions of northern Xinjiang, and play an important role in the desert ecosystems. E. triticeum has several adaptive characteristics such as short growth rhythms, high photosynthetic efficiency, high seed production, drought and salt resistance. However, the molecular regulatory mechanism of E. triticeum in responses to abiotic stress resistance is still unknown. In this study, two NAC-like transcription factor-encoding genes, EtNAC1 and EtNAC2, were isolated from E. triticeum. The predicted EtNAC1 and EtNAC2 proteins possess a typical NAC DNA-binding domain at the N-terminal region. The qRT-PCR analysis showed that EtNAC1 and EtNAC2 were highly expressed in mature roots of E. triticeum, and were significantly up-regulated under drought, high salt and abscisic acid (ABA) stresses. Subcellular localization analysis in onion epidermal cells revealed that EtNAC1 and EtNAC2 were located in the nucleus. Expression of EtNAC1 and EtNAC2 in yeast cells improved the survival rate of yeast under low temperature, H2O2, high drought and salt stresses. Overexpression of EtNAC1 and EtNAC2 in Arabidopsis thaliana conferred enhanced tolerance to drought and salt stresses, increased ABA sensitivity, and transgenic plants showed higher proline (Pro) content, but lower malondialdehyde (MDA) content, lower chlorophyll leaching, lower water loss rate and stomatal aperture (width/length) than WT plants. In conclusion, EtNAC1 and EtNAC2 play important roles in abiotic stress responses of E. triticeum, which might have significant potential in crop molecular breeding for abiotic stress tolerance.
Dung beetle optimization with composite population initialization and multi-strategy learning for multi-level threshold image segmentation
Authors: Li Zhidan , Liu Wei , Zhao Hongying , Pu Wenjing
Published: September 2024

As the number of thresholds increases in multi-threshold segmentation of digital images, the com- plexity of determining the ideal thresholds rises sharply, posing significant challenges for conventional approaches. Dung Beetle Optimization (DBO) is a metaheuristic algorithm that mimics the behav- iors of dung beetles, including rolling dung balls, female beetles laying eggs, small beetles searching for food, and thief beetles stealing. However, the original DBO suffers from slow convergence rate and suboptimal solutions. This paper proposes an improved DBO algorithm, named DBO with composite population initialization and multi-strategy learning (CMDBO), to address the issues. The improve- ments include initializing the population using chaotic mapping and oppositional learning, enabling weaker individuals to learn from better ones, and applying quasi-center oppositional-based learning to enhance convergence rate and solution accuracy. To verify its search performance, CMDBO was tested on CEC2017 function set and compared with several algorithms. Furthermore, CMDBO was applied to multi-threshold image segmentation. Experimental results indicate that the proposed CMDBO achieved the best overall performance in terms of convergence speed and solution accuracy.
Work-related grief and bereavement experiences of inner-city workers working with people experiencing social disadvantage: A rapid scoping review
Authors: Whitlock Kara , Premji Zahra , Mollison Ashley , Posada Carolina , Arias-Rojas Mauricio , Futcher Charlotte , Stajduhar Kelli
Published: September 2024

Background: While an extensive body of research in palliative care exists on the experiences of grief and bereavement among family caregivers, much of this research is based on normative assumptions of who family caregivers are – housed, financially stable, and with extended family and/or friends to draw on for support. Research shows that in contexts of social disadvantage such as inner-city settings, social and community workers can become ‘defacto’ family and provide caregiving support at the end of life. Yet, there is little known about the grief and bereavement experiences of this worker group.
Methods: This study aims to determine what is known about the experiences of grief and bereavement among inner-city workers working with people experiencing social disadvantage. A rapid scoping review was conducted following the JBI scoping review methodology. Six sources (Medline, CINAHL, APA PsycInfo, Web of Science Core Collection, Sociological Abstracts, and Social Work Abstracts) were searched to identify relevant articles published until June 30th, 2023. From the systematic search and screening process, 9 studies met the eligibility criteria and were selected for the analysis.
Results: Nine studies were included in this review that employed various qualitative approaches. Three main themes emerged from the narrative synthesis and thematic analysis: (1) Working in contexts of inequities, (2) Distress and its attributing factors, (3) Support needs and strategies.
Conclusions: Caring for socially disadvantaged individuals poses unique challenges, compounded by repeated loss, premature deaths, and societal stigma. Inner-city workers lack formal recognition for their pivotal palliative care role, necessitating organizational support, palliative education, and collective responses to address their unmet grief and bereavement needs. Further research is essential.
Transformation of brain myeloid cell populations by SIV in rhesus macaques revealed by multiomics
Authors: Fox Howard , Xu Xiaoke , Niu Meng , Lamberty Benjamin , Emanuel Katy , Apostol Moses
Published: September 2024

The primary immune constituents in the brain, microglia and macrophages, are the target for HIV in people and the simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) in nonhuman primates. This infection can lead to neurological dysfunction, known as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND). Given the gaps in our knowledge on how these cells respond in vivo to CNS infection, we performed single-cell multiomic sequencing, including gene expression and ATAC-seq, on myeloid cells from the brains of rhesus macaques with SIV-induced encephalitis (SIVE) as well as uninfected controls. We found that the myeloid cell populations were significantly changed by SIVE. In SIVE microglia-like cells express high levels of chemoattractants capable of recruiting highly activated CAM-like cells to the site of infection/inflammation. A unique population of microglia-like cells was found in which the chromatin accessibility of genes diverged from their RNA expression. Additionally, we observed a dramatic shift of upstream gene regulators and their targets in brain myeloid cells during SIVE. In summary, this study further uncovers the transcriptome, gene regulatory events and potential roles of different brain myeloid phenotypes in SIVE.