bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of switching lamivudine-based dual therapies for the maintenance of virologic suppression in adults with HIV-1: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Deng Boning , Deng Haiying , Chen Yajun , Jiang Zhenyu
Published: August 2023

Background：Based on available evidence, lamivudine-based dual therapies have been found to be effective, safe, and non-inferior to triple treatment in HIV-1 infected patients who are virologically suppressed. Because these dual therapies have fewer side effects and improved patient compliance. However, further comparisons of the efficacy and safety are still lacking among different lamivudine-based dual therapies. This study systematically assessed the efficacy and safety of switching to various lamivudine-based dual therapies.
Methods: We searched the eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from electronic databases as followed: ScienceDirect, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Pubmed, U.S.National Library of Medicine (www.clinicaltrials.gov). Data were analyzed by network meta-analysis using the network package in Stata 15.0. On the basis of the SUCRA scores, cluster analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the interventions and determine the optimal therapies.
Results: A total of 7 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 2539 patients were included in this study. The network meta-analysis results of different dual therapies based on lamivudine revealed that the increase in CD4 cell count from baseline was significantly higher in patients treated with DTG + 3TC compared to TT (MD=17.97, 95% CI:0.41, 35.54). However, no significant differences were observed in any other comparisons. Compared with TT alone, ATV + 3TC had the highest probability of maintaining virologic suppression, improving CD4 cell count from baseline and reducing the adverse events incidence. LPV + 3TC had the lowest rate of serious adverse events and withdrawal due to adverse events. According to the cluster analysis results, ATV + 3TC and DTG + 3TC might be the best choice concerning efficacy and safety simultaneously.
Conclusions: According to the data analysis, compared to triple treatment, lamivudine-based dual therapies might be the more favorable option in patients with an HIV-1 infection who were virologically suppressed. Among the lamivudine-based dual therapies, ATV + 3TC and DTG + 3TC might be the most favorable options for the maintenance of virologic suppression in adults with HIV-1.
Meta registration: The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD 42023387562).
Intercellular communication atlas reveals Oprm1 as a neuroprotective factor for retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Qian Jiang , Qian Cheng , Xin Ying , Qi Cheng , Wang Hui , Zack Donald , Blackshaw Seth , Hattar Samer , Zhou Feng-Quan
Published: August 2023

The progressive death of mature neurons often results in neurodegenerative diseases. While the previous studies have mostly focused on identifying intrinsic mechanisms controlling neuronal survival, the extracellular environment also plays a critical role in regulating cell viability. Here we explore how intercellular communication contributes to the survival of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) following the optic nerve crush (ONC). Although the direct effect of the ONC is restricted to the RGCs, we observed transcriptomic responses in other retinal cells to the injury based on the single-cell RNA-seq, with astrocytes and Müller glia having the most interactions with RGCs. By comparing the RGC subclasses showing distinct resilience to ONC-induced cell death, we found that the high-survival RGCs tend to have more ligand-receptor interactions with other retinal cells, suggesting that these RGCs are intrinsically programmed to foster more communication with their surroundings. Furthermore, we identified top 47 interactions that are stronger in the high-survival RGCs, likely representing neuroprotective interactions. We performed functional assays on one of the receptors, Mu-opioid receptor (Oprm1), a receptor known to play roles in regulating pain, reward, and addictive behavior. Although Oprm1 is preferentially expressed in intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), its neuroprotective effect could be transferred to multiple RGC subclasses by specific overexpressing Oprm1 in pan-RGCs in ONC, excitotoxicity, and glaucoma models. Lastly, manipulating Oprm1 activity improved visual functions and altered pupillary light response in mice. Our study provides an atlas of cell-cell interactions in both intact and post-ONC retina and an effective strategy to predict molecular mechanisms in neuroprotection, underlying the principal role played by extracellular environment in supporting neuron survival.
Spatio-Temporal Trends of Maternal and Child Health Service Utilization and Child Mortality in Poor and Rich Districts of Addis Ababa city, Ethiopia
Authors: Heyi Worku Dechassa , Mekonnen Wubegzier , Heyi Worku Dechassa , Melesse Desalegn Y. , Tejedor-Garavito Natalia , Nilsen Kristine , Getachew Theodros , Mulu Shegaw , Wondrad Naod
Published: August 2023

Although access and utilization of maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) services tend to be higher in urban areas compared to rural areas across SSA, previous studies suggest that large intra-urban inequalities exist. This study aims to examine temporal trends and spatial variations of maternal and child health service utilization between the poorest and richest districts of Addis Ababa. A World Bank district-based poverty index was used to classify districts into top 60% (non-poor) and bottom 40% (poor). Essential maternal and child health service coverage were estimated from routine health facility data for 2019–2021 and Five rounds of Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey (2000–2019) were used to estimate child mortality. Geospatial variation of the service coverage in poor and rich districts were estimated from DHIS 2 using QGIS. Results: Service coverage was substantially higher in the top 60% than bottom 40% districts. For example, four antenatal care(ANC4), skill birth attendance (SBA) and postnatal care (PNC) coverage was over 90% in the non-poor compared to 54–67% in the poor districts. Inequalities were less pronounced for childhood vaccinations with over 90% coverage levels across districts. District inequalities in mortality rates were considerable. Neonatal mortality was nearly twice as high in the bottom 40% as in the top 60% households. Similarly, the under 5 mortality rate was three times higher in the bottom 40% compared to top 60% of households. Addis Ababa has substantial inequalities in MNCH service utilization and child mortality. Greater focus on the city’s women and children living in the poorest households and districts in maternal, newborn and child health programs is urgently needed.
Unveiling Tissue Marker Migration in MRI-Guided Vacuum-Assisted Biopsies: Frequency, Factors, and Implications
Authors: Golan Orit , Lazar Sapir , Menes Tehillah , Freitas Vivianne , Kessner Rivka , Shalmon Tamar , Neeman Rina , Mercer Diego , Amitai Yoav
Published: August 2023

Purpose
To evaluate the frequency and factors associated with clip migration in MRI-guided breast biopsies.
Methods and materials
We retrospectively evaluated all MRI-guided biopsies performed between January 2013 and December 2020 in our institution for clip migration. Only patients with follow-up breast MRI showing the clip were included in the study. Migration was defined as > 1 cm movement from the target lesion. Migration frequency and directions were recorded. Different factors associated with clip migration were analyzed using statistical tests as appropriate.
Results
A total of 291 biopsies in 268 women were included in the study with 31 migration events recorded (11%, 95%CI 7–15). All migrations occurred along the biopsy tract, 30 of them distal from the tip of the needle (97%). More than 50% regional fat (around the target lesion) was the strongest factor associated with migration, seen in 21/140 (15%), compared to 10/150 (7%) with less than 50% local fat (P = 0.023). Global fatty breast was more loosely associated with migration, showing borderline significance (P = 0.06). Other factors did not correlate with clip migration, including lesion size, depth or location, pathology result, breast thickness or biopsy approach.
Conclusion
Although clip migration following breast MRI-guided biopsy is an uncommon event, it occurs more often when the target lesion is surrounded by fat, with the clip usually displaced away from the biopsy needle. This information could be valuable for pre-surgical localization and surgical planning.
B-line by Lung Ultrasound as a Predictor of Re-intubation in Mechanically Ventilated Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Hyun Junho , Kim Ah-ram , Lee Sang-Eun , Kim Min-Seok
Published: August 2023

There have been few studies on predictors of weaning failure from mechanical ventilation (MV) in patients with heart failure (HF). We sought to investigate the predictive value of B-lines measured by lung ultrasound (LUS) on the risk of re-intubation after MV weaning and in-hospital outcomes. This was a single-center, prospective observational study that included HF patients who were on invasive MV. LUS was performed right before ventilator weaning. A positive exam for B-lines was defined as the observation of two or more regions that had three or more numbers of B-lines located bilaterally on the thorax. Early re-intubation with 72 hours after MV weaning was significantly higher in the positive B-line group (14.1%) than the negative B-line group (2.4%) (p=0.011). The rate of total re-intubation during admission (p=0.004), duration of intensive care unit stay (p=0.004), and hospital stay (p=0.010) were greater in the positive B-line group. The negative predictive value (NPV) of positive B-lines was 97.6% for the primary outcome. B-lines measured by LUS can predict the risk of re-intubation after MV weaning. Considering the high NPV of positive B-lines, it may help guide the decision of extubation in patients on invasive MV due to acute decompensated HF.
An inventory of medicinal and poisonous plants of the National Veterinary Research Institute Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria
Authors: Akpojosevbe Edirin James , Ishaku Leo Elisha , Akogwu Emmanuel Itodo , Tondo Bernard Kpensalen , Hong Joseph , Muhammad Zainab , Oyebade Kehinde Funmi , Makoshi Micah Shehu , Shok Blessing Zataat , Okpalaeke Emilia Ebere , Usman Joy Gararawa , Gotep Jurbe Gofwan , Kwaja Elisha Zailani , Barde Israel Joshua , Bitrus Yakubu , Muhammad Maryam
Published: August 2023

Traditional medicinal plants are still commonly used for primary healthcare in developing countries, and this study seeks to identify the types of medicinal plants present in our community and document the knowledge of poisonous plants. The study area was divided into four blocks, and the plants within each block were identified through a field survey using Android phones equipped with Google lens and GPS. Local and scientific names of the medicinal plants were identified using photographs, herbaria, and references. The study found a total of 98 medicinal plant species belonging to 41 plant families, with Fabaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Lamiaceae families having the highest number of species. This study is significant for conserving traditional medicinal plants and adding to the inventory of medicinal plants in the area for conservation purposes. Furthermore, it is essential for public health and safety, as proper identification of medicinal plants is crucial to avoid poisoning.
Recycled Counterfeit Chips Detection for AMS and Digital ICs Using Low-Area, Self-Contained, and Secure LDO Odometers
Authors: Roy Sourav , Chen JinHong , Maghari Nima , Forte Domenic
Published: August 2023

Counterfeit electronics have widespread im-pacts on the many aspects of modern civilization thatdepend on integrated circuits (ICs) or chips. Among allof the counterfeit chips types, recycled and remarkedare the most prevalent. These are the chips that aretaken from discarded, obsolete electronics board andthen sold as new. As a result, they are aged and de-teriorated with short remaining lifespan and prone tofailure. Silicon odometers have been proposed to detectrecycled digital ICs, but few are applicable to analogand mixed signal (AMS) chips. Recently, an odometerthat can be integrated into a common AMS IP block,the low dropout regulator (LDO), was proposed. However, it has high area overhead, requires external mea-surements for classification, and has a security vulnera-bility. In this article, self-contained LDO odometers areproposed that overcomes these issues while still beingable to detect aging in AMS and digital chips. A calibra-tion feature is also introduced to compensate for processvariation. The area overhead of the analog and digitalversions are 8μm2 and 3.3μm2, respectively, which arean order of magnitude smaller than the prior state-of-the-art. A detection accuracy of 98.2% and 99.5% havebeen achieved for each which are comparable to existing odometers.
New strains of Trichoderma with potential for biocontrol and plant growth promotion improve early soybean growth and development
Authors: Galeano Rodrigo Mattos Silva , Ribeiro João Victor Souza , Silva Samanta Monção , Simas Ana Lorena de Oliveira , Guimarães Nelciele Cavalieri de Alencar , Masui Douglas Chodi , Corrêa Bianca Obes , Giannesi Giovana Cristina , de Lima Sebastião Ferreira , Brasil Marivaine Silva , Zanoelo Fabiana Fonseca
Published: August 2023

Aims
Bioformulations with Trichoderma strains offer cost-effective and sustainable options for integrated disease management and plant nutrition. Therefore, this study aimed selected new isolates of Trichoderma with antagonistic and plant growth promotion abilities, including the effect of inoculation of isolates on the early development of soybean seedlings.
Methods
Trichoderma isolated from the soybean rhizosphere were screenings assessed their antagonistic activity against three phytopathogens, as well as their capability for indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) synthesis and phosphate solubilization. Three promising isolates were further examined for their tolerance to various in vitro conditions and agrochemicals. Single and co-inoculation experiments to assess their effects on growth, chlorophyll, carotenoids, proteins, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds during early soybean development.
Results
T. viride GT-8, T. reesei GT-31, and T. longibrachiatum GT-32 demonstrated antagonism against phytopathogens. GT-31 and GT-32 exhibited higher IAA synthesis (175.8 ± 2.4 µg/mL and 119.6 ± 11.2 µg/mL, respectively), while GT-8 showed superior phosphate solubilization (28.56 ± 0.4 µg P/mL). All three fungi displayed robust growth under various conditions and agrochemical treatments. Trichoderma inoculation significantly enhanced shoot and root growth, with co-inoculation resulting in even higher dry shoot and root weights, increasing by 50.3% and 48.8%, respectively, compared to non-inoculated seedlings. Trichoderma-inoculated plants also exhibited elevated chlorophyll, carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds.
Conclusion
Overall, these findings highlight the potential of these novel Trichoderma isolates for formulating bioformulations that can enhance plant growth and offer benefits in soybean crops, providing a sustainable strategy for agriculture.
Genetic Analysis of Exacerbated Healing Responses after Periodontal Therapy due to Type 2 Diabetes: Clinical and in vivo Studies
Authors: Nakagawa Keita , Watanabe Kazuki , Mizutani Koji , Takeda Kohei , Takemura Shu , Sakaniwa Eri , Mikami Risako , Kido Daisuke , Saito Natsumi , Kominato Hiromi , Hattori Atsuhiko , Iwata Takanori
Published: August 2023

Background
This study aims to investigate the mechanisms underlying the exacerbated healing response by diabetes after periodontal therapy.
Methods
Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) and lean (ZL) rats underwent experimental periodontitis by ligating the mandibular molars for one week. The gingiva at the ligated sites was harvested one day after ligature removal, and gene expression was comprehensively analyzed using RNA-Seq. In patients with and without type-2 diabetes (T2D), the corresponding gene expression was quantified in the gingiva of the shallow sulcus and residual periodontal pocket after non-surgical periodontal therapy.
Results
Ligation-induced bone resorption and its recovery after ligature removal were significantly impaired in the ZDF group than in the ZL group. The RNA-Seq analysis revealed 252 differentially expressed genes. Pathway analysis demonstrated an enrichment of downregulated genes involved in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway. PPARα and PPARγ were decreased in mRNA level and immunohistochemistry in the ZDF group than in the ZL group. In clinical, less probing depth reduction and significantly downregulated expression of PPARα and PPARγ were detected in the residual periodontal pocket of the T2D group compared with those of the control group.
Conclusions
Downregulated PPAR subtypes expression may involve the impaired healing of periodontal tissues by diabetes.
Activated Carbon prepared from ridge gourd peels as a novel adsorbent for removal of cephalexin from wastewater
Authors: krishna gautham
Published: August 2023

Ride gourd peels were used to prepare activated carbon (RGAC) by zinc chloride activation. In order to remove Cephalexin (CFX) from aqueous solution, the RGAC was utilized as an adsorbent. CFX being an antibiotic pollutant which can cause hormonal changes in living organisms on long-term consumption, needs immediate attention in its removal specially from aquatic environment. It was discovered that RGAC could potentially remove CFX. The RGAC's highly porous structure and uneven surface were discovered by scanning electron microscopy. The excellent adsorption capacity of RGAC was aided by its large surface area − 945.857 m2/g and middling pore size − 1.7 nm. The maximal CFX adsorption capacity of RGAC was determined to be 37.56 mg/g. The highest connection between the theoretical and experimental data was found for the Langmuir isotherm at 25 oC (R2 = 0.9647), which suggests monolayer adsorption. The experimental findings are well-matched by the pseudo-second-order kinetics model. Fourier transform infrared analysis proved the existence of zinc comprising groups, C-H, C-O, C = O and C = C functional groups on the facade of RGAC. A negative surface charge was indicated by zeta potential analysis. The usage of RGAC as an adsorbent for CFX removal is investigated in this study which is first of its kind in this field.
Help-seeking behaviours and experiences for mental health symptoms related to the menstrual cycle: a UK-wide exploratory survey
Authors: Funnell Erin , Martin-Key Nayra A. , Spadaro Benedetta , Bahn Sabine
Published: August 2023

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are menstrual cycle-related disorders characterised by psychological and physical symptoms which impact functioning. Little is known about avenues for help-seeking for these disorders. Therefore, we sought to examine help-seeking behaviors and experiences, and investigate differences between identified PMS and PMDD groups. An online survey was delivered and data from 530 participants were analysed. All participants endorsed at least one PMS symptom, with 97.17% experiencing functional impairment. Help was sought by 64.91% (online: 45.93%; formal: 11.34%; online and formal: 42.73%), with 78.49% perceiving their symptoms were not taken seriously when seeking formal help. Most sought help online to look up symptoms (85.57%) and treatment options (39.67%). The study revealed the high frequency of PMS symptoms and the impact on wellbeing, as well as the significant proportion of online help-seekers, emphasizing the need for high-quality, evidence-based online resources and improvement of formal care interactions.
Long term use of Cytopoint® in atopic dogs
Authors: Gober Margaret , Amodie Deb , Mellencamp Marnie , Hillier Andrew
Published: August 2023

Cytopoint® (lokivetmab) has been shown to be effective for the short-term treatment of dogs with allergic and atopic dermatitis but there are no studies at US label dosing (at least 2 mg/kg every 4–8 weeks as necessary) which evaluate long-term usage. The objective of this study was to follow a cohort of dogs receiving Cytopoint to treat their canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) over 12 months. The initial phase of this study evaluated a dog’s pruritus following monthly injections (up to 3 injections) of Cytopoint. Dogs who achieved pruritus < 36 mm using a Pet Owner Pruritus Visual Analogue Scale (PVAS) scoring system during the initial phase, were included in this study. Dogs received Cytopoint injections per the US label every 4–8 weeks and returned on days 180 and 365 (+/- 7 days) after their initial Day 0 for examination by investigators. Pet owners were asked to complete an electronic PVAS assessment every 2 weeks. At each visit, investigators completed a Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI-4) score and VetVAS to measure skin lesion scores. There were 87% (64/75) of dogs who maintained a PVAS below their baseline PVAS on Day 0. Over the course of the study, 88% (65/75) of dogs obtained a mean PVAS below 36 mm. Of those dogs, 31% (23/75) achieved a biweekly PVAS that was below 36 for the entirety of the study with 11% (8/75) having a biweekly PVAS score that stayed below 20 (considered normal dog level of pruritus) for the entire study. Most owners (93%; 64/49) were satisfied with Cytopoint with 88% planning to continue Cytopoint usage. The majority (80%; 55/69) of pet owners reported they were able to reduce the use of other products while their dog was using Cytopoint, and 87% (60/69) of owners felt it was easier to care for the dog while using Cytopoint.
Global land drought hubs confounded by teleconnection hotspots in equatorial oceans
Authors: Ghosh Subimal , Chauhan Tejasvi , Chandel Vikram
Published: August 2023

Emerging data-driven techniques, such as Complex Networks (CNs), can identify spatial linkages between droughts on a global scale and, subsequently, drought propagation, which can improve early warning systems. Recent studies used CNs to identify hotspots of global drought teleconnections as land drought hubs; however, these studies excluded the ocean regions in CN, an oversight that can upend the insights gained thus far. Here, using a comprehensive global CN analysis on drought onsets, we show that oceanic regions harbor significantly larger drought hubs than land regions. The Indo-Pacific Warm pool (IPWP) in the Maritime continent emerges as the most significant drought hub having the farthest teleconnections. We show that IPWP, together with a few sub-tropical land and ocean regions, exhibit a ‘rich club phenomenon’ in CN. Further, using a causal network learning algorithm, we demonstrate the confounding role of oceans in modulating drought onsets on land regions indicating earlier studies might have overestimated the teleconnections of land drought hubs. Our study reveals novel insights on the spatiotemporal linkages of global drought onsets and highlights the role of oceans in driving global drought teleconnections and their potential role in drought propagation.
The evaluation of improved degradation of Acid Black ATT dye in aqueous solution by hybrid photo-ozonation peroxymonosulfate process
Authors: Majlesi Monireh , Rahmati Seyedeh Hoda , Alipour Arash , Dolatyari Atousa , Hashemi Marjan
Published: August 2023

The present study was designed and conducted to simultaneously produce two sulfate and hydroxyl radicals for the decomposition of Acid Black ATT dye, which showed that UV radiation and ozonation alone cannot decompose and break down this dye compound completely. The UV/O3/PMS process is able to completely remove all dye concentrations from 10 to 30 mg / L in 10 minutes. Then, the effect of parameters such as contact time, pH, initial dye concentrations, different doses of persulfate, and ozone under ultraviolet radiation on dye removal was studied. Based on the results of this experiment, the optimal concentrations of variables include pH, ozone concentration, and persulfate concentration, and initial dye concentration includes 10, 20 mg /min, 0.4 mM L− 1, and 20 mg/ L, respectively. For every 0.1 mM increase in PMS concentration, the amount of dye removal increased by 14%. Based on the findings of this study, the combined UV/O3/PMS process can be concluded that the environmentally friendly hybrid technology of advanced sulfate-based oxidation removes contaminants resistant to aqueous media.
Incidence and survival patterns of clear cell renal cell carcinoma from 2000 to 2017, based on A SEER Database
Authors: Liao Zhouning , Wang Dan , Zou Sijue , Zhang Yingying
Published: August 2023

Background:
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) incidence and death have changed considerably in recent years. The purpose of our study was to investigate the incidence, survival, and tumor characteristics of ccRCC in the year of diagnosis and to compare their changes over time by using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.
Materials and Methods:
Our study participants were drawn from the SEER database (2000-2017) and analyzed using SEER*Stat 8.4.1. Age-standardized incidence rates were calculated to compare incidence rates across time. In addition, we used Kaplan-Meier curves to calculate overall survival (OS) and Cox proportional hazards models to explore risk factors associated with mortality outcomes in patients with ccRCC.
Results:
In the SEER analysis from 2000 to 2017, we included a total of 101,892 patients with ccRCC. The increasing trend in age-adjusted incidence of ccRCC has remained relatively stable over the years, increasing from 2.63 per 100,000 in 2000 to 8.79 per 100,000 in 2017. The increase in the incidence of patients at a localized stage plays a decisive role in the overall increase in the incidence of ccRCC. In the general population, patients diagnosed in 2009-2017 had a higher survival rate (5-year OS rate = 73.45%) than those diagnosed in 2000-2008 (hazard ratio, HR: 0.89; 95% confidence interval, 95% CI: 0.88-0.91, P<0.001), which is consistent with all stages of the tumor.
Conclusions and Relevance:
The incidence of ccRCC increases steadily with the year of diagnosis, with the increase in patients with localized stages accounting for a major part of the increase. In addition, regardless of the stage of the disease, along with the increase in incidence, overall survival has significantly improved.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Fermented Soy Beverage Among Patients with Localized Prostate Cancer Prior to Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Lokeshwar Soum D. , Ali Ather , Weiss Theresa R. , Reynolds Jesse , Shuch Brian M. , Ferencz Thomas , Kyriakides Tassos C. , Mehal Wajahat Z. , Brito Joseph , Renzulli Joseph , Leapman Michael S.
Published: August 2023

Background
Fermented soy products have shown to possess inhibitory effects on prostate cancer (PCa). We evaluated the effect of a fermented soy beverage (Q-Can®), containing medium-chain triglycerides, ketones and soy isoflavones, among men with localized PCa prior to radical prostatectomy.
Methods
We conducted a placebo-controlled, double-blind randomized trial of Q-Can®. Stratified randomization (Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment (CAPRA) score at diagnosis) was used to assign patients to receive Q-Can® or placebo for 2–5 weeks before RP. Primary endpoint was change in serum PSA from baseline to end-of-study. We assessed changes in other clinical and pathologic endpoints. The primary ITT analysis compared PSA at end-of-study between randomization arms using repeated measures linear mixed model incorporating baseline CAPRA risk strata.
Results
We randomized 19 patients, 16 were eligible for analysis of the primary outcome. Mean age at enrollment was 61, 9(56.2%) were classified as low and intermediate risk, and 7(43.8%) high CAPRA risk. Among patients who received Q-Can®, mean PSA at baseline and end-of-study was 8.98(standard deviation, SD 4.07) and 8.02ng/mL(SD 3.99) compared with 8.66(SD 2.71) to 9.53ng/mL(SD 3.03), respectively, (Difference baseline – end-of-study, p = 0.36). There were no significant differences in Gleason score, clinical stage, surgical margin status, or CAPRA score between treatment arms (p > 0.05), and no significant differences between treatment arms in end-of-study or change in lipids, testosterone and FACT-P scores (p > 0.05).
Conclusions
Short exposure to Q-Can® among patients with localized PCa was not associated with changes in PSA levels, PCa characteristics including grade and stage or serum testosterone. Due to early termination from inability to recruit, study power, was not achieved.
Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03532308, May 9, 2018
Possibility of Exciton Bose-Condensation in Cdse Nanoplatelets
Authors: Baghdasaryan Davit , Harutyunyan Volodya A. , Kazaryan Eduard M. , Sarkisyan Hayk A. , Petrosyan Lyudvig S. , Shahbazyan Tigran V.
Published: August 2023

The quasi-two-dimensional exciton subsystem in CdS nanoplatelets is considered. It is theoretically shown that Bose-Einstein condensation (BEC) of excitons is possible at a nonzero temperature in the approximation of an ideal Bose gas and in the presence of an “energy gap” between the ground and first excited states of two-dimensional exciton center of inertia of the translational motion. The condensation temperature (\({T_c}\)) increases with the width of the “gap” between the ground and the first excited levels of size quantization. It is shown that when the screening effect of free electrons and holes on bound excitons is considered, the BEC temperature of the exciton subsystem increases as compared to the case where this effect is absent. The energy spectrum of the exciton condensate in a CdS nanoplate is calculated within the framework of the weakly nonideal Bose gas approximation, considering the specifics of two-dimensional Born scattering.
Mastication and mobility limitations, sex differences, and biopsychosocial predictors of jaw functional limitations in Chinese patients with temporomandibular disorder
Authors: Fang Zhong-yi , Yang Yang , Liu Sha-sha , Liu Li-kun , Lu Shen-ji , Zeng Hong , Cai Bin , Xu Li-li
Published: August 2023

Objectives
To describe jaw function characteristics using the Chinese version of the Jaw Function Limitation Scale (JFLS) and to explore the impact of biopsychosocial risk factors on limitations in jaw function among Chinese patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
Materials and Methods
This study included 488 Chinese patients with TMD. All patients completed the Chinese version of the JFLS; behavioral, psychometric, and self-report questionnaires; and clinical examinations.
Results
Limitations associated with TMD included restricted jaw mobility and mastication, both of which exceeded the median global functional limitations scale scores, particularly for opening the mouth to bite an apple and for chewing tough foods. Women reported greater jaw mobility and global limitations than men did. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the diagnosis subgroup, pain intensity, oral behaviors, and anxiety were predictive of high limitations in jaw function. In the mediation analysis, oral behaviors and pain intensity mediated the relationship between anxiety and jaw function limitations.
Conclusions
Chinese patients with TMD principally reported restrictions in mastication and jaw mobility, with more pronounced limitations in women than men. The diagnosis subgroup, pain intensity, oral behaviors, and anxiety were significant predictors of limitations in jaw function. Anxiety not only significantly predicted jaw function limitations but also increased the degree of jaw function limitations by increasing oral behaviors and exacerbating pain.
Clinical Relevance:
Clinically, improving adverse emotional states, such as anxiety, could reduce oral behaviors and relieve painful symptoms, thereby improving limitations in jaw function, particularly in women.
Comparison of Decline In Different Cognitive Domain In Patients With Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Rýdlo Ondřej , Bubeníková Adéla , Häcklová Klára , Skalický Petr , Leško Robért , Ebel Adéla , Netuka David , IIIrd Vladimír Beneš , Beneš Vladimír , Bradáč Ondřej
Published: August 2023

Objectives
We sought to describe the cognitive profile of patients with Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (iNPH) using a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. Based on age and education correlated norms, we aimed to compare performance in each measured cognitive domain: executive functions (EFs), verbal memory (VM), non-verbal memory (nVM), visuospatial abilities (VA) and attention/psychomotor speed (A/PS).
Methods
Patients diagnosed with iNPH underwent comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation before shunting. Their performance was compared to the age and education correlated norms. Correlation of different cognitive domains in iNPH profile was performed.
Results
A total of 53 iNPH patients (73.21 ± 5.48 years) were included in the study. All of the measured cognitive domains were significantly damaged. The most affected domains were EFs and VM (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). A/PS domain was affected milder than EFs and VM (p < 0.001). The least affected domains were nVM (p < 0.001) and VA (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Patients with iNPH are affected in all cognitive domains and the cognitive decline is uneven across these domains. The impairment of memory was shown to depend on the presented material. VM was shown to be much more severely affected than nVM and along with VM, EFs were shown to be the most affected. A/PS speed was shown to be less affected than VM and EFs and the least affected domains were nVM and VA.
Catalytic performance of ZnO-Ce nanoparticles decorated on biochar derived from Milkvetch for photocatalytic removal of reactive blue 19 dye
Authors: Jahani Fatemeh , Maleki Basir , Mansouri Mohsen , Noorimotlagh Zahra , Mirzaee Seyed Abbas
Published: August 2023

In this work, the photocatalytic removal of reactive blue 19 (RB19) dye was investigated by employing ZnO-Ce nanoparticles decorated with biochar under LED irradiation. Synthesis of ZnO-Ce nanoparticles decorated with biochar was performed utilizing the co-precipitation procedure, and the texture and morphologyof the fabricated nanocomposite were analyzed using EDX, FESEM, XRD, TEM, BET, and FTIR techniques. Moreover, FESEM images demonstrated that ZnO-Ce nanoparticles were successfully decoratedon the surface of biochar. The specific surface areas of biochar and biochar@ZnO-Ce were 34.518 and 636.52 m2/g, respectively. To achieve the maximum yield in the removal of RB19 dye, the influence of operating variables including dye concentration, LED lamp power, biochar@ZnO-Ce catalyst dose, pH, and H2O2dose were explored. Besides, the maximum percentage of RB19 dye removal was 96.47% under optimal conditions, i.e. catalyst dosage of 100 mg, H2O2dosage of 1 mL, pH of 9, initial dye concentration of 5 ppm, LED power of 50 W, and reaction time of 140 min. Also, the kinetic information revealed that the removal of RB19 dye was in accordance with the pseudo-first order kinetic model, and the reaction rate constant and correlation coefficient were determined to be 0.045 min− 1and R2 = 0.990, respectively. Also, the recyclability of biochar@ZnO-Ce nanocatalysts was promising over five runs, and only 6.08% of RB19 dye removal efficiency decreased. Therefore, it can be concluded that the biochar@ZnO-Ce photocatalyst can be promisingly applied for the removal of azo dyes in the aqueous solutions.
A viral protein activates MAPKs pathway to promote viral infection by downregulating callose deposition in plants
Authors: Songbai Zhang , Feng Lixiao , Luo Xiangwen , Zhang Yu , Li Shijun , Zhang Zhanhong , Yang Xiao , Wang Xin , Ouyang Xian , Shi Xiaobin , Zhang Deyong , Tao Xiaorong , Chen Jianping , Yang Jian , Liu Yong
Published: August 2023

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades are evolutionarily conserved in both plants and animals, playing critical roles in activating innate immunity to defend against various pathogens. However, the role of MAPK cascades in positively regulating or enhancing virus infections has not been extensively studied. In this study, we investigated the involvement of MAPK cascades in the infection of the positive-RNA virus, tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV), for the first time. Our findings reveal that ToCV infection activates MAPK cascades, promoting the virus spread within the plant. Specifically, ToCV P7, a pathogenicity determinant protein, localizes to the plasma membrane and recruits NbMPK3 from nucleus. Subsequently, P7 is directly phosphorylated on serine 59 by NbMPK3. The phosphorylated P7 then targets a remorin protein NbREM1, inhibiting callose deposition at plasmodesmata. These results demonstrate that conserved MAPK cascades directly phosphorylate viral proteins, modulating antiviral defense mechanisms by downregulating callose deposition at plasmodesmata and thereby enhancing virus transmission in plants. This study unveils molecular events associated with plasma membrane nanodomains and sheds light on the intricate arms race between host defense and viral counter-defense strategies.
A HS/SPME-GC×GC-TOF MS-Based Analysis of the Difference of Citri Grandis Exocarpium from Different Regions
Authors: Li Kaixuan , Wu Manman , Xu Jingwei , Luo Sifan , Luo Jianqun , Tan·Zhouzhen Guobin , Zhou zhen
Published: August 2023

In this study, a comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOF MS) combined with headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS/SPME) combined with chemometric was firstly used to analyze the volatile components of Citri Grandis Exocarpium that were from Huazhou (CGEH) and Guangxi (CGEG), respectively. The results from HS/SPME-GC×GC-TOF MS showed that total 304 chemicals among which 261 were firstly reported were identified. Among them 52 compounds were only detected in CGEH, 81 were unique in CGEG and 171 were in both CGEH and CGEG. The volatile components in CGEH were classified into 17 and CGEG into 19 types. The contents of alkene aromatics, hydrocarbons and alcohols in both CGEH and CGEG were relatively high. These results fully demonstrated the detection ability of GC×GC-TOF MS. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Orthogonal Partial Least Squares (OPLS-DA) were performed. The results indicated that there was basically no difference from different batches of the same origin. However, there were obvious differences between CGEH and CGEG. 10 compounds in CGEH were screened out the values of |p(corr)|>0.9, |p|>0.06 and VIP value > 1.1. These results could provide a helpful reference for the application of Citri Grandis Exocarpium.
A Guideline to Facilitate the Implementation of Collaborative Mdo in Conceptual Analysis of a Complex Product
Authors: Safavi Edris , Tarkian Mehdi , Ölvander Johan
Published: August 2023

This study provides a method to construct a collaborative multidisciplinary design optimization (CMDO) framework to be used in conceptual analysis of a complex engineering product. As its named implies, the CMDO framework, should be developed through the joint efforts of a team. Both technical and collaborative aspects should therefore be taken into account to provide a generic guideline. The proposed guideline to facilitate CMDO implementation in conceptual design is based on information gathered from a course project that included 40 students at Linköping University. An exploratory approach is used to clarify the technical/collaboration challenges, including questionnaires and extensive interviews with students. The guideline has been established to handle the challenges and difficulties of MDO implementation. It provides a handbook (step-by-step) approach to realize a CMDO framework in conceptual design. Preliminary results include an ontology to enable the use of CMDO, the collaboration strategy and a generic guideline.
Factor structure of callous unemotional traits and its associations with morality in middle childhood in a German community sample
Authors: Wilke Jessica , Eilts Jule , Bäker Neele , Rademacher Annika
Published: August 2023

The present study focuses on assessing the psychometric properties of the Inventory of Callous-Unemotional Traits (ICU) in a German community sample of middle childhood participants. Previous research on the ICU has primarily been conducted in different samples and countries, with inconsistent results and little attention given to German middle childhood populations. A total of 824 children aged 7 to 12 years (M = 10.34, SD = 1.65) participated (52.18% male). The ICU, a self-report measure, was employed to assess callous-unemotional traits in middle childhood. Additionally, this study also examines the relationship between callous-unemotional traits and morality. Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to evaluate various model structures based on previous research. The best-fitting model was found to be a two-factor model consisting of callousness and uncaring factors. The moral self shows a stronger overarching association with the uncaring factor than with callousness.
The Surgical Outcome and Prognostic Factors for Solitary Colorectal Liver Metastasis
Authors: Hsu Yu-Jen , Chern Yih-Jong , Wu Zhong-En , Yu Yen-Lin , Liao Chun-Kai , Tsai Wen-Sy , You Jeng-Fu , Lee Chao-Wei
Published: August 2023

Background:
The study focused on patients who had surgery for solitary liver metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRLM) and experienced relapse. Its main objective was to analyze the factors that independently contribute to recurrence and long-term overall survival.
Methods:
We retrospectively analyzed 230 solitary CRLM patients who received liver resection between 2010 and 2019. Factors prognostic of disease recurrence and overall survival were investigated and nomograms were developed to predict patient outcome after liver resection.
Results:
For these patients, the 3-year-overall survival (OS) rate was 72.3% and 59.8% for 5-years. For the recurrence-free survival (RFS) rate, it was 40.0% for 3-years and 27.1% for 5-years. The multivariate analysis showed that age ≥ 70, resection margin width < 10 mm, initial N2 stage, hypoalbuminemia before liver resection, and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) ≥ 3 after liver resection were independent prognostic factors for OS. For RFS, the multivariate analysis showed that initial N2 stage, hypoalbuminemia before liver resection, NLR ≥ 3 after liver resection, abnormal Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) after liver resection, and CEA ratio (after/before liver resection) < 0.3 were independent prognostic factors.
Conclusions:
The study found that several factors significantly impact both the recurrence and overall survival rates of patients who had surgery for solitary liver metastasis of colorectal cancer. The most important risk factors identified were the initial N2 stage, a neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio of 3 or higher after liver resection, and hypoalbuminemia (albumin levels below 3.5 g/dL) before liver resection.
CircRNF121 facilitates ovarian cancer progression through modulating microRNA-153/IGF2BP2/B3GNT6 axis
Authors: Wang Zhifeng , Sun Hao , Hu Dian , Liu Xiaojun
Published: August 2023

Background
Increasing studies have evidenced that circular RNAs (circRNAs), a new class of non-coding RNAs, exert a vital role in controlling the progression of multiple human cancers.
Methods
The functional roles of circRNF121 in the initiation and progression of ovarian cancer (OC) warrant further investigation. In our study, RT-qPCR was utilized to determine the expression of circRNF121 in OC cancerous tissues and cells. Also, CCK-8 analysis was performed to detect the viability of CaSki and MS751 cells. The effects of circRNF121 on OC cells were explored using in vitro migration assay and in vivo subcutaneous xenograft tumor model. RT-qPCR and western blotting were used to determine the expression of a panel of genes relative to the EMT process. Luciferase reporter assay were conducted to confirm the specific interaction between circRNF121 and miRNA-153 or between miRNA-153 and IGF2BP2. RNA-Immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay confirmed the binding efficacy of IGF2BP2 and B3GNT6.
Results
In our study, we firstly demonstrated circRNF121 was upregulated in OC cancerous tissues and cells, and the expression of circRNF121 was negatively correlated with patient’s survival. Functionally, circRNF121 can function as an oncogene to promote OC progression both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, circRNF121 worked as a sponge for miRNA-153 to regulate IGF2BP2 expression. Besides, RIP and qPCR analysis suggested that IGF2BP2 can promote B3GNT6 expression to drive OC progression.
Conclusions
CircRNF121 promotes OC progression through modulating the miR-153/ IGF2BP2/B3GNT6 axis, thereby providing a promising therapeutic target for OC treatment.
Mini-abstract:
CircRNF121 promotes OC progression through modulating the miR-153/ IGF2BP2/B3GNT6 axis.
Multi-scale Adaptive Atrous Graph Convolution for Point Cloud Analysis
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Zhao Xu , Xu Kun , Xu Shihao
Published: August 2023

Despite extensive research, the representation and learning of local characteristics for sparse and dense points in 3D point clouds could have been better. Traditional convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have limitations due to fixed convolutional kernels with narrow receptive fields, making them inefficient in recognizing correlation properties between local points and processing 3D point clouds. To address this, we propose a novel multi-level feature pyramid graph neural convolutional network (MSAGCNet) that incorporates Multi-scale Adaptive Atrous Graph Convolution (MSAGConv) and Learnable Graph Pooling (LGP) techniques. By adaptive atrous kernels and multi-scale architecture, MSAGConv can deeply learn the features of points, enhance the flexibility of point convolution kernels, expand the perception field, and capture rich semantic information and local correlation features between sparse points at various scales. Meanwhile, LGP aims to eliminate the interference of redundant graph nodes (dense points), aggregating fine-grained and coarse-grained point cloud features. Our methods outperform advanced shape classification and part segmentation techniques on the ModelNet40, ScanObjectNN, and ShapeNetPart datasets in a thorough qualitative and quantitative evaluation.
TKG: Telecom Knowledge Governance Framework for LLM Application
Authors: Cai Haoran , Wu Sijie
Published: August 2023

The emergence of ChatGPT and the competition among various Large Language Models have drawn significant attention from society. The success of Natural Language Processing (NLP) in the general field has captured the interest of researchers and engineers from academia and industry. In the telecom industry, Large Language Models (LLMs) have found extensive use in intelligent customer service and data search, contributing to the improvement of work efficiency in product delivery and operation. Nevertheless, it is important to note that while generic large models are versatile, their application to specific domains is hindered by the lack of high-quality domain-specific data. This often results in LLMs being unable to provide high-quality answers to specific problems.
In this paper, we aim to investigate knowledge data governance in the telecom field, build high-quality domain-specific corpus, and utilize the dataset to fine-tune the large language model, which can enhance its ability to solve downstream practical problems such as Q\&A, search, and text generation. To address the challenge of model hallucination, we propose a data solution, namely Telecom Knowledge Governance (TKG), for intelligent application scenarios. TKG constructs a large-scale telecom domain corpus that ensures the accessed data is up-to-date, comprehensive, and of the highest quality. Moreover, we recruit five technical experts in the telecom field and develop automated generation tools to create a high-quality telecom Q\&A dataset that includes over 100,000 domain-specific questions and answers. Finally, we use this dataset to fine-tune the model, allowing it to learn how to apply telecom knowledge to specific scenarios more effectively. The results show that our knowledge data can greatly improve the model performance.