bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Percutaneous mesh-container-plasty versus percutaneous kyphoplasty in the treatment of osteoporotic compression fractures with up-endplate injury: a retrospective study
Authors: Sun Haifu , Gu Qiang , Deng Lei , Wang Chengyue , Li Yonggang , Qian Zhonglai , Wang yimeng
Published: April 2024

Background: Percutaneous mesh-container-plasty（PMCP），a modified traditional percutaneous kyphoplasty（PKP）technique，is increasingly being used to treat osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures（OVCF） with up-endplate injury. This retrospective study aimed to compare the clinical and radiological results of PKP and PMCP for the treatment of this disease.
Methods: We reviewed the records of patients with osteoporosis compression fracture and upper endplate injury in our hospital from January 2019 to December 2021.One hundred and ninety-two patients who sustained osteoporosis compression fracture and upper endplate injury without neurological deficits were included in this study according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria.103 patients underwent PKP surgery，and 89 patients underwent PMCP surgery.
Results: The VAS and ODI scores improved in the PKP and the PMCP. The anterior vertebral body height ratio (AVBHr) and Cobb's angle showed recovery, but there was no significant statistical difference between BMCP and PKP groups. The amount of bone cement injection and the duration of patient hospitalization were similar between the two groups. But the incidence of cement leakage and adjacent vertebral fracture was lower in the PMCP group (9/89 and 3/89) than in the PKP group (24/103 and 12/103) (p < 0.05). The operation time and fluoroscopy time in the PMCP group (35.23 ± 8.54 minutes and 13.26 ± 3.34 minutes) were significantly lower than that in the PKP group（44.64 ± 9.88 minutes and 18.43 ± 4.87 minutes）(p < 0.05).
Conclusions：The BMCP group demonstrated favorable treatment outcomes in managing osteoporotic compression fractures with up-endplate injury. Additionally, it showed shorter operation and fluoroscopy times. Moreover, the postoperative probabilities of adjacent vertebral fractures and bone cement leakage were lower.
Neural networks for abstraction and reasoning: Towards broad generalization in machines
Authors: Banerjee Soumya , Bober-Irizar Mikel
Published: April 2024

For half a century, artificial intelligence research has attempted to reproduce the human qualities of abstraction and reasoning - creating computer systems that can learn new concepts from a minimal set of examples, in settings where humans find this easy. While specific neural networks are able to solve an impressive range of problems, broad generalisation to situations outside their training data has proved elusive.

In this work, we look at several novel approaches for solving the Abstraction and Reasoning Corpus (ARC). This is a dataset of abstract visual reasoning tasks introduced to test algorithms on broad generalization. Despite three international competitions with $100,000 in prizes, the best algorithms still fail to solve a majority of ARC tasks. The best solvers today rely on complex hand-crafted rules, without using machine learning at all. We revisit whether recent advances in neural networks allow progress on this task, or whether an entirely different class of models are required.

First, we adapt the DreamCoder Neurosymbolic reasoning solver to ARC. DreamCoder automatically writes programs in a bespoke domain-specific language to perform reasoning, using a neural network to mimic human intuition. We present the Perceptual Abstraction and Reasoning Language (PeARL) language, which allow DreamCoder to solve ARC tasks, and propose a new recognition model that allows us to significantly improve on the previous best implementation.

We also propose a new encoding and augmentation scheme that allows large language models (LLMs) to solve ARC tasks, and find that the largest models can solve some ARC tasks. LLMs are able to solve a different group of problems to state-of-the-art solvers, and provide an interesting way to complement other approaches.

We perform an ensemble analysis, combining models to achieve better results than any system alone. Finally, we publish the arckit Python library to make future research on ARC easier.
Bearing Anomaly Detection in an Air Compressor using an LSTM and RNN-Based Machine Learning Model
Authors: Joung Byung Gun , Nath Chandra , Li Zhongtian , Sutherland John W.
Published: April 2024

Smart systems such as data-driven machine health monitoring are emerging as a powerful technology for advanced manufacturing as a result of the availability of low-cost sensors, wireless communication, and advances in computational capabilities. Machine learning represents a critical element of manufacturing equipment health monitoring due to its ability to efficiently process large amounts of data and move beyond traditional rule-based maintenance methods. Predictive maintenance (PdM) has become increasingly popular in manufacturing. PdM can detect faults, determine root causes of operation anomalies, estimate the current health state of a system, and predict the future state and time when a component will fail in the absence of an intervention. One weakness of many past studies is the lack of run-to-failure data from an actual production environment. This paper presents run-to-failure data for the air compressor of an injection molding machine. A Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) is proposed to detect bearing faults in the air compressor. The model achieves a 97.4% of prediction accuracy (95.3% of overall accuracy). Experiments for machine state classification are also conducted and the classification performance compares favorably with conventional models.
Effluent plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 predicts ultrafiltration in incident peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Lai Jia-Wen , Wang Charles C.N. , Chou Che-Yi
Published: April 2024

Background
The peritoneal equilibration test (PET) measures ultrafiltration and small solute clearance in peritoneal dialysis (PD). We aimed to assess if PET and biomarkers predict ultrafiltration in the first two days of PD. Biomarkers included in the study were matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2), plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI1), aquaporin1 (AQP1), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and CA125.
Methods
We enrolled 36 incident PD patients, and a fast PET was performed after the PD catheter insertion. Effluent MMP2, PAI1, AQP1, TLR4, and CA125 were collected with the fast PET and were measured using commercially available ELISA kits. The association of ultrafiltration and variables was analyzed using linear regression.
Results
The mean age of 36 patients was 69 ± 13 years, and 22 (61.1%) patients were male. The average daily ultrafiltration was 652 ± 775 ml in the first two days of PD. The D/P creatinine 1-hour was 0.59 ± 0.21, MMP2 13.9 ± 13.1 ng/ml, and PAI1 1.59 ± 1.88 ng/ml. MMP2 (p = 0.007) and PAI1 (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with ultrafiltration in univariable linear regression, but D/P creatinine (p = 0.064) was not. PAI1, independent of MMP2 and D/P creatinine, was associated with ultrafiltration with a coefficient of 404.18 (95% confident intervals 143.85 to 664.50, p = 0.003) in multivariable linear regression.
Conclusion
Measurements of effluent PAI1 at the PD catheter insertion predict ultrafiltration in the first two days of PD. The association of PAI1 and ultrafiltration is independent of MMP2 and D/P creatinine using fast PET.
In silico structural, functional and virtual screening study against proteasome subunit alpha of Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. bolletii as a drug target
Authors: Sahu Rohit , Singh Satendra , Gautam Budhayash , Yadav Pramod Kumar
Published: April 2024

Many studies and observations suggest proteasomes are multimeric proteolytic enzyme complexes that play a central role in degradation of protein in animal cells. Several basic cellular processes such as the cell cycle, apoptosis, the stress response, and also the regulation of immune and inflammatory responses are concerned with it. In one of the studies, it was found that proteasome subunit alpha was identified as a drug target in Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. bolletii 50594. So we have predicted the proteasome subunit alpha structure of Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. bolletii in the present analysis via a Swiss-prot server. The primary and secondary structure analysis was performed through several webserver. The stereochemical quality of the model was evaluated by SAVES server. The compound ligand library was prepared with the help of the JSCG database and the Drug Bank. With the assistance of iGEMDock and AutoDock Vina tools, these ligands are used for virtual screening via protein-ligand docking. The result obtained by docking shows that there are several ligands from the prepared library, showing a much better interaction based on binding affinity. The pharmacokinetic analysis was also performed to predict out the ADMET properties and bioactivity of lead compound. It was noticeable from this outcome that there are certain ligands that could be used as a medication to treat the disease. These studies also enable us to discover a new potent anti-disease drug caused by Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. bolletii 50594.
Medwakh smoking induces alteration in salivary proteins and cytokine expression: An exploratory investigation employing salivary proteomics analysis
Authors: K.G Aghila Rani , Soares Nelson C. , Rahman Betul , Giddey Alexander D. , Al-Hroub Hamza M. , Semreen Mohammad H. , Kawas Sausan Al
Published: April 2024

The study aims to elucidate salivary proteome alterations in medwakh smokers. Saliva samples from 33 medwakh smokers and 30 non-smokers were subjected to proteomic analysis using UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS. Saliva samples were analyzed for the production of 13 cytokines using LEGENDplex™ Human Essential Immune Response Panel. Statistical analysis revealed alterations in the abundance of 74 proteins including key immune mediators and inflammatory markers (Accession: PXD045901). Proteins involved in oxidative stress, cell anchorage, and cell metabolic processes were affected in medwakh smokers. Salivary immune response evaluation further validated proteome findings, revealing significantly higher levels of IL-1β, IL-12p70, IL-23, IFN-γ (Th1 cytokines), IL-6 (Th2 cytokine), and MCP-1 (chemokine) in medwakh smokers. The substantial increase in abundance of involucrin suggests stratified squamous cell differentiation and increased cell lysis in the oral cavity of medwakh smokers akin to chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). The protein–metabolite joint pathway analysis further showed significantly enriched differentially expressed proteins and metabolites of glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, pentose phosphate, fructose and mannose, nicotinate and nicotinamide, and glutathione metabolism pathways in medwakh smokers. The findings underscore an urgent need for comprehensive public health interventions among youth, including awareness, cessation programs, and promoting healthier lifestyle choices to safeguard the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide.
Eradication and diversity of potato spindle tuber viroid in Dahlia in Japan
Authors: Yanagisawa Hironobu , Fuji Shin-ichi , Shiki Yusuke , Oishi Moritsugu , Oya Hitoshi , Fukushima Keisuke , Ishikawa Tomoki , Fujiwara Yuji , Matsuura Takayuki
Published: April 2024

The potato spindle tuber viroid (PSTVd) was discovered in 2009 in Japanese dahlia (Dahlia sp.). Their occurrence areas were distributed across 24 prefectures based on an exhaustive survey using RT-PCR and RT-qPCR. All dahlia plant varieties in which PSTVd was detected and their adjacent plants were removed from the field. This was repeated until the eradication was completed in 2021. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that the collected PSTVds were closely related which suggests that PSTVd was widespread from the same point from infected seedlings and tubers in Japan.
The correlation between the number of oocytes retrieved and PGT clinical outcomes: a population study of 1084 PGT cycles
Authors: Liang Yunhao , Li Meiyi , Wu Zhufeng , Liu Shuai
Published: April 2024

Background
PGT is widely used in IVF center to improve the clinical outcomes. The number of oocytes retrieved is a critical indicator in IVF-PGT cycle.Therefor, We aim to determine whether the number of retrieved oocytes can affect the clinical outcomes of patients who undergoPGT.
Methods
The participating patients were divided into 6 groups according to the number of oocytes retrieved. The clinical outcomes of patients who underwent PGT and euploid blastocyst transfer at our IVF centre between January 2017 and December 2022 were retrospectively analysed.
Results
A total of 1084 cycles were includedin our study. Patient age and AMH levels were positively correlated with the number of oocytes retrieved and were significantly different among the 6 groups (P<0.001). Basal E2, basal FSH and basal LH levels were also significantlydifferent among the 6 groups (P<0.001). BMI and endometrial thickness did not significantly differ among the 6 groups (P=0.200 and P=0.065, respectively). The MII oocyte rate, 2PN embryo rate, and blastocystrate were significantly different among the 6 groups (P<0.001). However, the proportion of biopsied blastocysts did not significantly differ among the6 groups (P=0.257). The genetic testing revealedthat the euploid blastocyst rate and mosaic blastocyst rate were significantly different among the 6 groups (P=0.014 and P=0.038, respectively). The number of OHSS patients did not significantly differ among the 6 groups (P=0.110). After FET, the implantation rate (P=0.057), ectopicpregnancy rate (P=0.496), miscarriage rate (P=0.986), pretermbirth rate (P=0.051), birth defectrate (P=0.544), neonatal weight (P=0.913) and livebirth rate (P=0.339) did not significantly differ among the6 groups. Both the clinicalpregnancy rate and cumulative live birth rate were significantly different among the 6 groups(P=0.046 and P<0.001, respectively).
Conclusion
Our results suggest that the clinical pregnancy rate and cumulativelive birth rate of 21-25 oocytes increase, after which they plateau and donot increase therisk of OHSS. Thus, 21-25 is theoptimal number of oocytes retrieved in PGT cycles.
Vaccine wastage rates and attributed factors in rural and urban areas in Uganda: Case of Mukono and Kalungu districts
Authors: Ninsiima Mackline , Muhoozi Michael , Luzze Henry , Kasasa Simon
Published: April 2024

Background Vaccine wastage contributes to missed opportunities to vaccinate especially in low-income countries with high vaccine preventable disease burden. We estimated vaccine wastage rates and assessed attributed factors among health workers participating in vaccination activities in Mukono and Kalungu districts in Uganda. Methods A mixed methods study design was utilised to estimate vaccine wastage rates for BGC, OPV, IPV, PCV, MR, DPT–HepB–Hib and assess attributed factors among health workers participating in vaccination activities in randomly selected health facilities in Mukono (urban) and Kalungu (rural) districts. Mann–Kendall statistical test was used to assess significance of observed trends of vaccine wastage rates. We applied Mann Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis H tests to compare overall average vaccine wastage rates per vaccine by district, ownership, and type of health facility. For purposes of triangulation, we conducted Key informant interviews among immunization focal persons to explore reasons attributed to vaccine wastage. Thematic analysis method using inductive coding was used to analyse qualitative data. Results Overall vaccine wastage rates were BCG (70%), MR (58%), DPT–HepB–Hib (21%), IPV (31%), OPV (28%) and PCV (17%); exceeding accepted vaccine wastage rates in Kalungu and Mukono districts from March–August, 2022. Significant variations in vaccine wastage rates were observed across the different types of health facilities [BCG (p < 0.001), IPV (p = 0.023), MR (p = 0.004) and OPV (0.008)] and further, among health facilities located within urban and rural areas [BCG (p < 0.001), MR (p < 0.001) and OPV (0.003)]. Vaccine wastage rates particularly for BCG and MR vaccines were attributed to compliance with Multi Dose Vial Policy (MDVP). Other contributing factors were low turn up during vaccination outreaches, errors and non–completion of vaccine monitoring tools, failure in maintaining cold chain and lack of training in vaccine management among health workers. Conclusion Vaccine wastage rates for all vaccines were relatively higher than acceptable levels in both districts. Intensified efforts such as regular review of vial opening guidelines, predictive modelling for outreach planning, decentralized vaccination approaches, and availability of vaccines in single-dose presentations where feasible could minimize vaccine wastage especially in multi–dose vials.
Multimodal monitoring using the Analgesia Nociception Index (ANI) during catheter ablation of the heart in patients with sinus rhythm and short-term induced atrial arrhythmia: prospective observational study
Authors: Belyakov K. S. , Ruslyakova Irina A. , Marinin V. A. , Shamsutdinova E. Z.
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION: Сatheter ablation (CA) is a painful procedure requiring an assessment of the balance between nociception associated with surgical trauma and anesthesia induced antinociception. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of the monitoring system “ANI Monitor” for anesthesia and intensive care in patients with sinus rhythm and short-term induced (< 1 min) atrial arrhythmia (STIAA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study group of our trial consisted of 94 patients with CA and ANI Monitor. The control group consisted of 94 patients, selected using the “copy-pair” method, with standard (hemodynamic) monitoring. A Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) was used for assessment the intensity of pain. At the stage of femoral vein catheterization in all patients regional anesthesia was performed, at the CA stage, procedural sedation and/or analgesia (PSA) was titrated with the administration of propofol and fentanyl (under the control with ANI Monitor). Statistical data processing was carried out using Statistica 10.0 and SPSS programs. RESULTS: At the stage of CA under PSA, negative correlation was found between NRS and ANIm in patients with sinus rhythm and STIAA (r = −0.37). At the threshold of 56.0 the sensitivity and specificity of ANIm in detecting NRS ˃ 3 were 60 and 100 %, respectively, corresponding to ROC curve AUC of 0.81. Significant changes in hemodynamic reactivity were not registered. It was revealed the reduction of fentanyl administration in patients of the study group (0.04 ± 0.02 and 0.05 ± 0.03 µg/kg/min, respectively, p < 0.001) under the control of ANI Monitor. CONCLUSIONS: ANI Monitor during CA in patients with sinus rhythm and STIAA was more effective in detecting harmful nociceptive stimuli compared to standard (hemodynamic) monitoring. The use of ANI Monitor to control the fentanyl administration could create conditions for opioid-sparing anesthesia.
Uncovering Attributes of an Internal Islands Diaspora: Connections and Aspirations to Return
Authors: Gow Kirsten , Philip Lorna , Wilson Ruth , Duffy Paula , Currie Margaret
Published: April 2024

A transnational migration lens has shaped diaspora research in recent decades. Yet exploring diasporas in the context of moves across international borders has obscured sub-national diasporas, and this has led to a gap in our understanding of how such groups can and do contribute to their communities of origin. This article aims to develop a better understanding of the Scottish islands diaspora and to explore its potential to contribute to island communities, including via internal return migration. We present findings from a survey conducted with the Scottish islands diaspora to illustrate how internal diasporas can exhibit continued connection to a ‘homeland’. This includes taking an active interest in a ‘home’ island’s future and participating in shared cultural practices that bind individuals together within the diaspora over a sustained period. We find that the Scottish islands diaspora carries many of the hallmarks of its transnational counterparts and highlight how this group has the potential to contribute to the future of Scotland’s islands both at a distance and, potentially, via return migration.
A fine balance: A review of incinerators for menstrual waste and recommendations for policy and practice
Authors: Weber Alison Z. , Muralidharan Arundati , Scanlon Brandon , Hallowell Jeff , Pellowski Jennifer A.
Published: April 2024

Menstrual health and hygiene is a public health and human rights issue. Amid growing access to menstrual health products and education, there is limited focus on end-of-life management and environmental impact of single-use products. Burning is a common practice to dispose of pads globally, with pad incinerators becoming widely available in India and parts of sub-Saharan Africa. However, known literature does not provide insights into the current product landscape for practitioners, researchers, or funders. Thus, this review aimed to identify and characterize incinerators designed specifically for menstrual pads and to propose recommendations for effective onsite incineration. Incinerators were identified using Internet searches, web forum posts, and key informant interviews. A custom coding form documented and summarized product characteristics. An estimate of the total cost of ownership (TCO) was computed. The ‘Availability, Accessibility, Acceptability, Quality’ framework was adapted to identify technology strengths and failures. This review identified 69 incinerators from 30 global manufacturers. Estimates of a 10-year TCO ranged from USD 153 to 149,900, with electricity being the largest driver of cost. Incinerators were found to largely lack safety features, such as emissions controls. This review provides key recommendations for a variety of stakeholders, including manufacturers, policymakers, regulators, researchers, and technical experts.
Seasonality effect on trend and long-term persistence in precipitation and temperature time series of a semi-arid, endorheic basin in Central Anatolia, Turkey
Authors: Koycegiz Cihangir
Published: April 2024

In climate change research, it is vital to have knowledge about future changes in the trends of climatological time series. The purpose of this study is to look at the effect of seasonality on the trend and long-term persistence of precipitation and temperature time series in the Konya Endorheic Basin, a semi-arid basin in central Anatolia, Turkey. Seasonal-trend decomposition by locally estimated scatterplot smoothing was used to obtain a seasonality adjusted time series, and a comparative analysis with the original series was performed. The Mann–Kendall test and simple linear slope were used to determine monotonic trends. To observe long-term persistence, Hurst exponents were computed using the rescaled range analysis approach. The Onyutha trend test was then used to investigate the sub-trends. As a result, there is a significant increase in temperature. Precipitation is increasing in the west and east of the basin while decreasing in the north and south. The magnitude of the monotonic and sub-trend is enhanced by seasonal adjustment. Meanwhile, in the seasonally adjusted dataset, the Hurst exponent grew dramatically, reinforcing the long-term persistence. Seasonality has less of an impact on precipitation, which is more affected by local variability, than temperature.
Investigating the financialization of water infrastructure in China: A public policy perspective
Authors: Wang Zhen , Ouyang Rulin , Li Yun , Wang Huanming , Cheng Zhe
Published: April 2024

Insufficient funding for water infrastructure has become a notable challenge for China and other developing countries. In light of marketization and globalization, financialization has emerged as a potential avenue to address the financial difficulties. This study employs the PMC index model and cluster analysis method to quantitatively analyze the financialization of water infrastructure in China through a lens of public policy lens. The findings suggest that financialization has become a significant trend in water infrastructure, with public policy playing a critical role in water infrastructure development. This study contributes to the novel possibilities for studying water infrastructure financialization and offers a reference to policymakers and professionals for optimizing water infrastructure development.
Secondary risks induced by polyethylene microplastics during the disinfection processes of chlorination, UV irradiation, and ozone treatment
Authors: Zhang Yizhuo , Fu Shiyu , Lu Qinrui , Gao Shanxue , Wang Zheng , Chen Lei
Published: April 2024

The presence of microplastics in surface waters poses potential hazards to both organisms and human health. Traditional water treatment processes have proven to be inadequate in effectively removing microplastics. Besides, previous studies have often utilized disinfectant dosages that surpass those commonly employed in drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs), and the biotoxicity changes induced by microplastics after disinfection remain largely unexplored. To address these knowledge gaps, our study aimed to investigate the impact of practical disinfectant dosages on the leaching of organic compounds from microplastics and the formation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs). Furthermore, the resulting acute and genetic toxicity was evaluated through bioassays. Our findings revealed an elevated release of dissolved organic matter (DOM) derived from microplastics. Additionally, both acute and genetic toxicity increased following various disinfection processes. Specifically, chlorination exhibited the highest level of toxicity in short-term disinfection, while the pretreatment of ozonation followed by residual chlorination demonstrated the highest toxicity in the long-term disinfection, which was correlated with the concentration of CHCl3 formed. These findings will advance our understanding of the potential risks associated with microplastics during various disinfection processes, with the ultimate goal of safeguarding water supplies.
Assessment of hydrochemical characteristics and trace metals of Punpun River water – a tributary of the Ganga River
Authors: Ranjan Rashmi , Kaushik Himanshu , Ranjan Rajesh Kumar
Published: April 2024

This manuscript presents the first inventory of dissolved ions (cations and anions) and trace metals (Pb, Mn, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu and Zn) in the Punpun River water to assess its irrigational suitability, pollution sources and hydrogeochemical processes. For this, the physicochemical parameters and trace metals in river water were analysed in the pre- and post-monsoon seasons. The results showed that the concentrations of cations and anions were Ca2+ > Na+ > Mg2+ > K+ and HCO3− > SO42- > Cl− > NO3− > PO43-, respectively, in both the pre- and post-monsoon seasons. However, trace metal concentration in pre- and post-monsoon followed the trend of Pb > Mn > Cr > Ni > Cu > Zn > Co and Pb > Ni > Mn > Cr > Zn > Co > Cu, respectively. The results reveal that combined effects of rock weathering and evaporation-concentration influence hydrochemistry, along with anthropogenic factors like industrial effluents, urban domestic sewage and agricultural runoff. Piper and Durov plots suggest that the river water is dominated by Ca–Mg–HCO3− type, and the processes were governed by simple ion dissolution and mixing. However, the Gibbs plot shows that silicate and carbonate weathering govern the hydrochemical properties. Irrigational indices like sodium adsorption ratio, %Na, residual sodium carbonate, Kelly's ratio, magnesium hazard, and trace metals indicate that most of the water samples are suitable for irrigation. Comprehensive pollution index values suggest that the river water quality ranges from sub-clean to slightly to moderately polluted.
Differential Effect of 4H-Benzo[d] [1, 3]oxazines on the Proliferation of Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Fraire-Soto Ixamail , Araujo-Huitrado Jorge Gustavo , Granados-López Angelica Judith , Segura-Quezada Luis A. , Ortiz-Alvarado Rafael , Herrera Mayra Denise , Gutiérrez-Hernández Rosalinda , Reyes-Hernández Claudia Araceli , López-Hernández Yamilé , Tapia-Juárez Melissa , Negrete-Díaz José Vicente , Chacón-García Luis , Solorio-Alvarado César R. , López Jesús Adrián
Published: April 2024

Background:

A family of 4H-benzo[d][1,3]oxazines were obtained from a
group of N-(2-alkynyl)aryl benzamides precursors via gold(I) catalysed chemoselective
6-exo-dig C-O cyclization.

Methods:

The precursors and oxazines obtained were studied in breast cancer cell lines
MCF-7, CAMA-1, HCC1954 and SKBR-3 with differential biological activity showing
various degrees of inhibition with a notable effect for those that had an aryl substituted
at C-2 of the molecules. 4H-benzo[d][1,3]oxazines showed an IC50 rating from 0.30 to
157.4 µM in MCF-7, 0.16 to 139 in CAMA-1, 0.09 to 93.08 in SKBR-3, and 0.51 to
157.2 in HCC1954 cells.

Results:

We observed that etoposide is similar to benzoxazines while taxol effect is
more potent. Four cell lines responded to benzoxazines while SKBR-3 cell line responded
to precursors and benzoxazines. Compounds 16, 24, 25 and 26 have the potent effect
in cell proliferation inhibition in the 4 cell lines tested and correlated with oxidant activity
suggesting a possible mechanism by ROS generation.

Conclusion:

These compounds represent possible drug candidates for the treatment of
breast cancer. However, further trials are needed to elucidate its full effect on cellular
and molecular features of cancer.
Ayurvedic and Chinese Herbs against Coronaviruses
Authors: Gasmi Amin , Kanwal Sonia , Oliinyk Petro , Lysiuk Roman , Shanaida Mariia , Gasmi Benahmed Asma , Dushmantha Walallawita Kankanamge Tharindu , Arshad Maria , Kernychna Ivanna , Lenchyk Larysa , Upyr Taras , Shanaida Volodymyr , Bjørklund Geir
Published: April 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral disease that infects the lower airways, causing severe
acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and fatal pneumonia. The ripple effect of the COVID-19 outbreak
has created serious problems in the healthcare systems of many countries and had far-reaching consequences
for the global economy. Thus, effective control measures should be implemented for this coronavirus infection
in the future. The ongoing episode of the SARS-CoV-2 sickness, COVID-19, in China, and the subsequent irregular
spread of contamination to different nations, has alarmed the clinical and academic community primarily
due to the deadly nature of this disease. Being a newly identified virus in the viral classification and having
the highest mutation rate, rapid therapeutics are not readily available for treating this ailment, leading to the
widespread of the disease and causing social issues for affected individuals. Evidence of Ayurveda and traditional
Chinese medicine (TCM) has been found in ancient civilizations, such as those of the Hindus, Babylonians,
Hebrews, and Arabs. Although TCM and Ayurvedic herbs do not promise to be very effective treatments
for this pandemic, they can reduce infectivity and virulence by enhancing immunity and showing effectiveness
in rehabilitation after COVID-19 disease. Thus, they could be used as sources of inhibitor molecules
for certain phenomena, such as viral replication, attachment to the host, 3CL protease inhibition, 3a ion channel
inhibitors, and reverse transcription inhibition. Medicinal plants from TCM and Ayurveda and their biologically
active phytoconstituents can effectively modulate the targets and pathways relevant to inflammation and
immune responses in human bodies. The present review analyzes the role of certain TCM and Ayurvedic
medicinal plants in healing COVID-19 infection. Medicinal plants such as Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), Curcuma
longa (turmeric), and Zingiber officinale (ginger) are regarded as the main antiviral herbs. Their extracts
and individual bioactive compounds could be used as potential substances for developing remedies to prevent
or cure the coronavirus disease. Generally, antiviral phytochemicals obtained from natural sources are considered
potent candidates for fighting COVID-19 infection and rehabilitation after it.
Bear Bile Powder Improves Ulcerative Colitis by Protecting the Intestinal
Mechanical Barrier and Regulating Intestinal Flora
Authors: Liu Zi-Bo , Ye Xun , Wu Chun-Jie , Wei Da-Neng
Published: April 2024

Background:

Bear Bile Powder (BBP) is a traditional Chinese medicine. It has been widely used in
clinical practices and has shown a good anti-inflammatory effect. However, its effectiveness in treating Ulcerative
Colitis (UC) has not yet been studied.

Objective:

To explore the therapeutic effect of BBP on ulcerative colitis and its potential mechanism by combining
acute ulcerative colitis mouse models and comprehensively observing various physiological and biochemical
indexes of mice.

Methods:

The acute ulcerative colitis model was induced by drinking water containing dextran sulfate sodium
salt (DSS) for 7 days. Studies were divided into Control, DSS, DSS+ Sulfasalazine (SASP, 450 mg/kg), and
DSS + bear bile powder group (BBP, 320 mg/kg). The Disease Activity Index (DAI) and colonic tissue damage
of mice were evaluated. Tissue immunofluorescence and western blot were used to determine related tight
Junction Proteins (TJs), and 16S V34 amplicon was used to analyze intestinal microorganisms. The therapeutic
effect of BBP on ulcerative colitis model mice was studied comprehensively.

Results:

After treatment, BBP can significantly improve the physiological condition of acute UC mice and reduce
DAI fraction. Compared with the DSS group, the BBP group significantly increased the colon length and
significantly decreased the injury fraction of acute UC mice. Regarding the intestinal mechanical barrier, BBP
significantly increased the expression of ZO-1, Occludin, and Claudin 1 protein in colon tissue. In terms of microbial
community, the intestinal microbial diversity of mice decreased after the administration of BBP, but
there was no significant difference in structural composition between the BBP group and the Control group.
By comparing the four groups of species with significant differences, it was found that the BBP group significantly
reduced the abundance of specific harmful microorganisms at the order, family, genus, and species levels.

Conclusion:

Oral administration of a certain dose of BBP can significantly improve the symptoms of ulcerative
colitis in mice. Part of the reason may be that it increases the expression of tight junction proteins, regulates
specific flora in the intestine of mice, and maintains intestinal barrier homeostasis. In the future, the clinical
application value of BBP will be explored, and BBP will be developed as a drug with the potential to treat
UC and alleviate the pain of UC patients.
Synthesis, Thermotropic Properties, and Applications of Porphyrin-based Liquid
Crystals: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ghosh Tapas
Published: April 2024

Research on novel discotic molecules, which consist of a rigid core with flexible peripheral chains,
has gained much attention due to their crucial role as organic photovoltaic materials, organic field-effect transistors,
and semiconductors for photocurrent generation, as well as the possibility of their other optoelectronic
applications. This review article describes the developments in fundamental design ideas and synthetic approaches
of porphyrin-based meso and beta-substituted liquid crystals. In addition, the current review highlights
the various structural alterations made by the researchers in the field of porphyrin-based mesogens and changes
in properties, both for materials intended for commercially successful liquid crystal displays, including other
applications, and for more basic purposes of demonstrating structure-property relationships.
Chitosan-Based Nanocarriers for Pulmonary and Intranasal Drug
Delivery Systems: A Comprehensive Overview of their Applications
Authors: Alwahsh Wasan , Sahudin Shariza , Alkhatib Hatim , Bostanudin Mohammad F. , Alwahsh Mohammad
Published: April 2024

The optimization of respiratory health is important, and one avenue for achieving this is
through the application of both Pulmonary Drug Delivery System (PDDS) and Intranasal Delivery
(IND). PDDS offers immediate delivery of medication to the respiratory system, providing advantages,
such as sustained regional drug concentration, tunable drug release, extended duration of action,
and enhanced patient compliance. IND, renowned for its non-invasive nature and swift onset
of action, presents a promising path for advancement. Modern PDDS and IND utilize various polymers,
among which Chitosan (CS) stands out. CS is a biocompatible and biodegradable
polysaccharide with unique physicochemical properties, making it well-suited for medical and
pharmaceutical applications. The multiple positively charged amino groups present in CS facilitate
its interaction with negatively charged mucous membranes, allowing CS to adsorb easily onto
the mucosal surface. In addition, CS-based nanocarriers have been an important topic of research.
Polymeric Nanoparticles (NPs), liposomes, dendrimers, microspheres, nanoemulsions, Solid Lipid
Nanoparticles (SLNs), carbon nanotubes, and modified effective targeting systems compete as important
ways of increasing pulmonary drug delivery with chitosan. This review covers the latest
findings on CS-based nanocarriers and their applications.
Role of Non-coding RNAs on the Radiotherapy Sensitivity and Resistance in Cancer Cells
Authors: Jalali-Zefrei Fatemeh , Mousavi Seyed Mehdi , Delpasand Kourosh , Shourmij Mohammad , Farzipour Soghra
Published: April 2024

:

Radiotherapy (RT) is an integral part of treatment management in cancer patients. However,
one of the limitations of this treatment method is the resistance of cancer cells to radiotherapy.
These restrictions necessitate the introduction of modalities for the radiosensitization of cancer
cells. It has been shown that Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), along with modifiers, can act as radiosensitivity
and radioresistant regulators in a variety of cancers by affecting double strand break
(DSB), wnt signaling, glycolysis, irradiation induced apoptosis, ferroptosis and cell autophagy.
This review will provide an overview of the latest research on the roles and regulatory mechanisms
of ncRNA after RT in in vitro and preclinical researches.
Nomogram to Predict 90-Day All-Cause Mortality in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients after Endovascular Thrombectomy
Authors: Zhang Shiya , Yu Shuai , Wang Xiaocui , Guo Zhiliang , Hou Jie , Wang Huaishun , Huang Zhichao , Xiao Guodong , You Shoujiang
Published: April 2024

Objective:

Although Endovascular Thrombectomy (EVT) significantly improves the
prognosis of Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS) patients with large vessel occlusion, the mortality rate
remains higher. This study aimed to construct and validate a nomogram for predicting 90-day
all-cause mortality in AIS patients with large vessel occlusion and who have undergone EVT.

Methods:

AIS patients with large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation who underwent
EVT from May 2017 to December 2022 were included. 430 patients were randomly split into a
training group (N=302) and a test group (N=128) for the construction and validation of our
nomogram. In the training group, multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine
the predictors of 90-day all-cause mortality. The C-index, calibration plots, and decision
curve analysis were applied to evaluate the nomogram performance.

Results:

Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed neurological deterioration during hospitalization,
age, baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, occlusive
vessel location, malignant brain edema, and Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) as the independent
predictors of 90-day all-cause mortality (all p ≤ 0.039). The C-index of the training and
test groups was 0.891 (95%CI 0.848-0.934) and 0.916 (95% CI: 0.865-0.937), respectively,
showing the nomogram to be well distinguished. The Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test
revealed the p-values for both the internal and external verification datasets to be greater than
0.5.

Conclusion:

Our nomogram has incorporated relevant clinical and imaging features, including
neurological deterioration, age, baseline NIHSS score, occlusive vessel location, malignant brain
edema, and NLR ratio, to provide an accurate and reliable prediction of 90-day all-cause mortality
in AIS patients undergoing EVT.
The Current Landscape in the Development of Small-molecule Modulators Targeting Sphingosine-1-phosphate Receptors to Treat Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Kar Sidhartha Sankar , Gharai Soumya Ranjan , Sahu Sujit Kumar , Ravichandiran Velayutham , Swain Sharada Prasanna
Published: April 2024

:

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is extensively researched as a lysophospholipid and is
crucial in various physiological and pathological processes. It achieves this via signalling through
five different subtypes of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), namely S1PR1 to S1PR5. S1PR
modulators possess the ability to traverse the blood-brain barrier, potentially leading to direct
actions within the Central Nervous System (CNS). S1PR modulators specifically bind to
receptors located on the surface of naive and central memory lymphocytes, causing these cells to
be trapped or confined within the lymph node. The investigation of the S1P pathway has resulted
in the approval of three S1PR modulators, namely fingolimod, siponimod, and ozanimod, as
medications for the treatment of patients suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Additionally,
new S1PR modulators, such as ponesimod and etrasimod, are currently being developed and
tested in clinical trials. Research on the creation of S1P modulators in neurodegenerative illnesses
is ongoing as scientists continue to explore novel possibilities for selective S1P modulators. This
study provides a concise overview of sphingolipid metabolism, the mechanism by which S1P
receptors are affected, and the structural characteristics of several small molecule S1P
modulators, with a particular focus on their structure-activity connections.
Envisioning Clinical Management of Breast Cancer: a Comprehensive Review
Authors: Das Shubhashree , Pattnaik Gurudutta , Pattanaik Sovan , Jena Bikash Ranjan , Satapathy Bhabani Sankar , Pradhan Ayushi
Published: April 2024

Background:

Background: Coming to the edge of disease manufacturing in the twenty--
first-century, breast cancer occupies a terrifying scenario in the globe, especially in adult women.
Its curiosity endeavours remarkable advances made during the past decennaries for cancer treatment
and diagnosis.

Objective:

It accounts for the fifth leading cause of transience, killing approximately 570,000 people
per annum. To reduce the prognosis of clinical oncological development with the application
of a new chemical entity, some of the critical challenges, like active pharmaceutical ingredients
with high chemical resistance, extreme side effects, and high treatment costs are some of the limitations
in the curbing aspects of breast melanoma.

Methods:

In cancer research, hence, the development of drugs that are safe, efficient, and cost-effective
remains a 'Holy Grail' that may be considered as a boon to target the malignant tissues
with novel therapeutics devices.

Results:

Through the findings on overcoming the drawbacks of traditional methods, researchers
have given special attention to cancer-preventive and theranostic approaches based on some novel
drug delivery systems.

Conclusion:

The present study forecasts the wide-ranging modern applications, and on developing
some novel liposomal drug delivery therapy against breast cancer.
Probiotic Supplementation during Pregnancy: Evaluating the Current Clinical Evidence against Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Pavlidou Eleni , Alexatou Olga , Tsourouflis Gerasimos , Antasouras Georgios , Papadopoulou Sousana K. , Papandreou Dimitrios , Sampani Anastasia , Giaginis Constantinos
Published: April 2024

Background:

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) constitutes a common metabolic
disorder that could lead to deleterious short- and long-term complications in both the mother
and her infant. Probiotic supplementation seems to exert diverse, healthy effects by acting as a
preventive agent against various human diseases, including GDM.

Objective:

The purpose of the current narrative review was to critically summarize and scrutinize
the available clinical studies during the last 15 years (2008-2023) concerning the use of
probiotic supplementation during pregnancy as a protecting agent against GDM.

Methods:

A thorough and in-depth search was performed in the most accurate scientific databases,
e.g., PubMed., Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar applying effective, and relevant
keywords.

Results:

There are currently some clinical studies suggesting the potential beneficial impact of
probiotic supplementation in the prevention and/or co-treatment of GDM. Nevertheless, there is
a high heterogeneity amongst the available clinical studies concerning the dosage, the administration
duration, the probiotic species types, the method designs and protocols, and the study
populations.

Conclusion:

Probiotic supplementation at conventional dosages and in combination with a balanced
healthy diet, and lifestyle seems to reduce the the risk of developing GDM, while ameliorating
the severity of its symptoms. Further clinical studies taking into account the above considerations
should be performed to establish conclusive results, while the future meta-analyses
should include studies with the feasibly lowest heterogeneity.
Renal Lesions with Low-level Enhancement on Contrast-enhanced CT Promotes
Early Detection of Drug-induced Kidney Injury in Patients Administered Anticancer
Drugs
Authors: Chai Xiao-Ming , Yang Xiu-Rong , Li Ying-Li , Li Zi-Yan , Mi Yan-Jun
Published: April 2024

Background:

Some patients with cancer-administered anti-cancer drugs may develop renal lesions with low-level enhancement on follow-up abdominal
computed tomography (CT).

Objective:

To explore the clinical significance of renal lesions with low-level enhancement on CT after exposure to anti-cancer drugs.

Methods:

Medical records of patients with cancer who developed renal lesions on CT after exposure to anti-cancer drugs were retrospectively reviewed.
Renal lesions were scored according to the extent of involvement, CT attenuation values of lesions and normal parenchyma were measured on precontrast
CT and three phases of contrast-enhanced CT, and changes in serum creatinine (SCr) from one week before exposure to drugs to one week
before and after the appearance of renal lesions were recorded.

Results:

This study included 54 patients (86 lesions). Lesions were slightly lower density on pre-contrast CT, and less enhancing than normal renal
parenchyma, especially in the delayed phase. Lesions were wedge-shaped, and involved the renal pyramid and associated renal cortex, as well as,
were single or multiple, and occurred in the unilateral or bilateral kidneys. There were patchy and cord-like shadows of increased density in
adjacent perirenal adipose tissue. During follow-up, lesions disappeared in 15 patients and persisted in 39 patients without significant progression.
There were significant differences in renal lesions and normal renal parenchyma CT attenuation values in each phase of contrast-enhanced CT.
Change in SCr level was significantly positively correlated with lesion score.

Conclusion:

Renal lesions with low-level enhancement on CT suggest early drug-induced kidney injury. These findings will inform clinical decision-making.