bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Exosomes Antagonize the Inhibitory Effect of Dihydrotestosterone on Hair Follicle Growth by Activating Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway
Authors: Tang Xin , Cao Cuixiang , Liang Yunxiao , Han Le , Tu Bin , Yu Miao , Wan Miaojian
Published: September 2023

The most prevalent type of alopecia is androgenetic alopecia (AGA), which has a high prevalence but no effective treatment. Elevated dihydrotestosterone (DHT) level in the balding area was usually thought to be critical in the pathophysiology of AGA. The canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays a key role in promoting hair follicle development and sustaining the hair follicle cycle. Adipose-derived stem cell exosomes (ADSC-Exos) are widely used in the field of regenerative medicine due to the advantages of being cell free and immune privileged. Still, few studies have reported the therapeutic effect on hair disorders. As a result, we sought to understand how ADSC-Exos affected hair growth and explore the possibility that ADSC-Exos could counteract the hair-growth-inhibiting effects of DHT. This research using human hair follicle organs, in vitro dermal papilla cells, and in vivo animal models showed that ADSC-Exos not only encouraged healthy hair growth but also counteracted the inhibitory effects of DHT on hair growth. Additionally, we discovered that ADSC-Exos increased Ser9 phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase-3β levels and facilitated nuclear translocation of β-catenin, which may have been blocked by the specific Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor dickkopf-related protein 1. Our findings suggested that ADSC-Exos are essential for hair regeneration, which is anticipated to open up new therapeutic possibilities for clinical alopecia, particularly for the treatment of AGA.
Mechanical Behavior and Wear Characteristics of a Conform Extruded C18150 (Cu-Cr-Zr Alloy) Rod
Authors: Desta Tariku , Sinha Devendra Kumar , Ramulu Perumalla Janaki
Published: September 2023

The demand level of Cu-Cr base alloys is on the top notch from miniature parts to large parts based on their mechanical, metallurgical, chemical, and electrical properties. Due to these, the processing of Cu-Cr-Zr alloys for the betterment of those properties has been a prospect for researchers. Commonly, Cu-Cr alloys are manufactured through the conventional extrusion process at the industrial level. However, conventional extrusion processes have some limitations, specifically regarding grain size refinement and accompanying strength. To avoid such a problem, the conform extrusion process is inculcated for the Cu and Al alloys extrusion. In the present study, C18150 copper rods were extruded from the feed stock rod of 12.5 mm to 10 and 8 mm in diameter through the conform extrusion process; however, no posttreatment and artificial aging have been made to the extrudates. The extrudates of C18150 rods were tested mechanically and microstructurally. Significant mechanical properties improvement has been observed as the diameter decreased to a certain dimension. Same phenomenon is also observed in the microstructural and hardness case. Wear test results also followed the similarity with that of mechanical properties.
Mechanical and thermal properties of recycled polypropylene bamboo fibre-reinforced composites
Authors: Widiastuti Indah , Pratama Devan Hidayat , Hakim Mohamad Lukmanul , Wijayanto Danar Susilo , Harjanto Budi
Published: September 2023

In this article, a kind of green composite was prepared from recycled polypropylene (r-PP) which was further reinforced with various loadings of chemically modified bamboo fibres. Effects of bamboo fibre loading on the mechanical and thermal properties of r-PP/bamboo composites were studied. Those properties were characterized by tensile testing, impact testing, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). Standardized test specimens with 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% mass fractions of bamboo fibre were obtained by an extrusion process which was then finalized on injection molding. The experiment revealed the tensile strength and strain of the composite become greater with the increase of bamboo fraction in the ultimate value of 20% mass fraction. The composite with 10% bamboo fibre loading recorded the highest value of impact strength. Meanwhile, it was evident that the presence of bamboo fibre decreased the thermal stability of recycled polypropylene materials. Therefore, this composite material may find good potential for semi-structural loading applications in relatively low-exposure working.
A receiver-side power control method for series-series magnetic topology in inductive contactless electric vehicles battery charger application
Authors: Bhavsingh Bhukya , Babu Gotluru Suresh , Mangu Bhukya , Bhukya Ravikumar
Published: September 2023

Wireless power transfer (WPT) can be used to charge the battery conveniently and efficiently. In this paper, the investigation of high-efficiency S/S resonant magnetic topology in inductive wireless battery charging of electric vehicles (EVs) is analyzed, designed, and controlled. To regulate the output power efficiently rather than controlling the supply voltage, novel bidirectional switches are introduced to control the output power by using the duty cycle control method. The output power of the secondary side is derived and discussed based on the fundamental harmonic approximation (FHA) approach. A 1.5 kW, 120 mm distance, and 85 kHz resonance frequency are verified in MATLAB/Simulink.
ANSYS investigation of solar photovoltaic temperature distribution for improved efficiency
Authors: Rousseau Paul , Nouri Hassan
Published: September 2023

A computational analysis of the influence of varying solar module material properties on operating temperature is presented and related to electrical conversion efficiency through the devised method. By varying the properties of density, specific heat capacity, and isotropic thermal conductivity for each material that comprises a solar module, density, and specific heat capacity were found to have the greatest influence on decreasing the operating temperature when increased by a factor of 50% for the glass layer, resulting in a decrease in temperature of 5.33 °C. Utilizing the devised method, which is based on the work of Palumbo, this temperature decrease was correlated to an electrical efficiency increase of 3.08%.
Behavioural response of Dryophytes plicatus tadpoles to the cues of non-native rainbow trout and a native snake
Authors: Méndez-Méndez Olga , Sánchez-Sánchez Renato , Hernández-Luría Jazmín , Smith Geoffrey R. , Lemos-Espinal Julio A.
Published: September 2023

Non-native species have numerous and significant, often negative, effects on amphibians, but that threat may be ameliorated if the native species is able to respond behaviourally to the non-native predators. We experimentally compared the behavioural response of tadpoles of the Ridged Tree Frog, Dryophytes plicatus, to cues from non-native Rainbow Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, to those to a native predator, the Short-tail Alpine Garter Snake, Thamnophis scaliger. Dryophytes plicatus tadpoles did not alter activity in response to cues from O. mykiss but increased activity in the presence of cues from T. scaliger, although it is possible this increase is related, at least in part, to the order of the presentation of the cues. The activity of D. plicatus tadpoles was higher in the absence of the vegetation than in its presence when exposed to predator cues, both T. scaliger and O. mykiss, but not in the control. In conclusion, our results show D. plicatus tadpoles alter their overall activity when exposed to cues from a native predator, T. scaliger, but not the non-native O. mykiss. These results may explain, in part, why D. plicatus can co-occur with T. scaliger but not O. mykiss.
Commentary on Urban Secularism by Julia Martínez-Ariño
Authors: Selby Jennifer A.
Published: September 2023

This article offers critical and complementary commentary on the new book Urban Secularism: Negotiating Religious Diversity in Europe by Julia Martínez-Ariño.
Dynamics of Religious Identity Change in the Context of Georgian Crypto-Orthodoxy
Authors: Pourtskhvanidze Zakharia , Beridze Marine , Bakuradze Lia
Published: September 2023

In the process of the invasion wars of Shah Abbas the First (1571–1629), the history of the emergence of two Georgian language islands in Iran (Fereydany Georgian) and Azerbaijan (Ingilo Georgian) begins. The extension of control to the areas considered the cradle of Georgian Christianity, Tao, Klarjeti, Shavsheti, and partially Javakheti, can be interpreted as a reaction of the Ottoman Empire to the Caucasus policy of Shah Abbas. Due to linguistic isolation, the third Georgian language island (Our Georgian) is formed in Turkish territory. The first period of the formation of the socio-cultural landscape of the language islands can be characterized as a parallel process of simultaneous integration and isolation of the Christian minorities in the environment of the Islamic majority. The unconscious use of Christian practices preserved in the cultural memory appears as a component of this process. The distinctive feature of Georgian Crypto-Orthodoxy is the conscious as well as unconscious use or preservation of Christian cultural components. The focus is on preserving the identity of simultaneous transformation and accommodation in relation to the environment of the new Islamic majority.
A key to the species of genus Synochoneura Obraztsov, 1955 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) from China with the descriptions of a new species from Wuyishan National Park
Authors: LIANG TENG-DA , MO SHI-FANG , WANG MIN , WANG CHEN-BIN
Published: September 2023

A new species of the genus Synochoneura Obraztsov, 1955, S. wuyishana sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Wuyishan National Park in Fujian Province of China. The new species resembles S. sapana, but differs in wing pattern and female genitalia characters. Illustrations of adults and genitalia are provided. Additionally, a key to the Chinese Synochoneura species based on morphology is presented. The type specimens are deposited in the Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou.
Factors associated with long-term outcomes of CD19 CAR T-cell therapy for relapsed/refractory CLL
Authors: Liang Emily C. , Albittar Aya , Huang Jennifer J. , Hirayama Alexandre V. , Kimble Erik L. , Portuguese Andrew J. , Chapuis Aude , Shadman Mazyar , Till Brian G. , Cassaday Ryan D. , Milano Filippo , Kiem Hans-Peter , Riddell Stanley R. , Turtle Cameron J. , Maloney David G. , Gauthier Jordan
Published: September 2023

High response rates have been reported after CD19-targeted chimeric antigen receptor–modified (CD19 CAR) T-cell therapy for relapsed/refractory (R/R) chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), yet the factors associated with duration of response in this setting are poorly characterized. We analyzed long-term outcomes in 47 patients with R/R CLL and/or Richter transformation treated on our phase 1/2 clinical trial of CD19 CAR T-cell therapy with an updated median follow-up of 79.6 months. Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 8.9 months, and the 6-year PFS was 17.8%. Maximum standardized uptake value (hazard ratio [HR], 1.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07-1.23; P < .001) and bulky disease (≥5 cm; HR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.06-4.26; P = .034) before lymphodepletion were associated with shorter PFS. Day +28 complete response by positron emission tomography–computed tomography (HR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.04-0.40; P < .001), day +28 measurable residual disease (MRD) negativity by multiparameter flow cytometry (HR, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.03-0.22; P < .001), day +28 MRD negativity by next-generation sequencing (HR, 0.21; 95% CI, 0.08-0.51; P < .001), higher peak CD8+ CAR T-cell expansion (HR, 0.49; 95% CI; 0.36-0.68; P < .001), higher peak CD4+ CAR T-cell expansion (HR, 0.47; 95% CI; 0.33-0.69; P < .001), and longer CAR T-cell persistence (HR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.44-0.72; P < .001) were associated with longer PFS. The 6-year duration of response and overall survival were 26.4% and 31.2%, respectively. CD19 CAR T-cell therapy achieved durable responses with curative potential in a subset of patients with R/R CLL. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01865617.
Enhancement of the therapeutic efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes in osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhang Zehao , Zhao Sheng , Sun Zhaofeng , Zhai Chuanxing , Xia Jiang , Wen Caining , Zhang Yuge , Zhang Yuanmin
Published: September 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA), a common joint disorder with articular cartilage degradation as the main pathological change, is the major source of pain and disability worldwide. Despite current treatments, the overall treatment outcome is unsatisfactory. Thus, patients with severe OA often require joint replacement surgery. In recent years, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising therapeutic option for preclinical and clinical palliation of OA. MSC-derived exosomes (MSC-Exos) carrying bioactive molecules of the parental cells, including non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and proteins, have demonstrated a significant impact on the modulation of various physiological behaviors of cells in the joint cavity, making them promising candidates for cell-free therapy for OA. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the biosynthesis and composition of MSC-Exos and their mechanisms of action in OA. We also discussed the potential of MSC-Exos as a therapeutic tool for modulating intercellular communication in OA. Additionally, we explored bioengineering approaches to enhance MSC-Exos’ therapeutic potential, which may help to overcome challenges and achieve clinically meaningful OA therapies.
Herpes zoster associated with stroke incidence in people living with human immunodeficiency virus: a nested case–control study
Authors: Ku Han-Chang , Wu Yi-Lin , Yip Hei-Tung , Hsieh Cheng-Yang , Li Chung-Yi , Ou Huang-Tz , Chen Yen-Chin , Ko Nai-Ying
Published: September 2023

Background

The incidence of stroke is increasing among younger people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The burden of stroke has shifted toward the young people living with HIV, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. People infected with herpes zoster (HZ) were more likely to suffer stroke than the general population. However, the association of HZ infection with the incidence of stroke among patients with HIV remains unclear.

Methods

A nested case–control study was conducted with patients with HIV registered in the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database in 2000–2017. A total of 509 stroke cases were 1:10 matched to 5090 non-stroke controls on age, sex, and date of first stroke diagnosis. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of stroke incidence.

Results

The odds ratio of stroke was significantly higher in the HIV-infected population with HZ (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.42–2.41). A significantly increased AOR of stroke was associated with hypertension (AOR: 3.53, 95% CI: 2.86–4.34), heart disease (AOR: 2.32, 95% CI: 1.54–3.48), chronic kidney disease (AOR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.16–2.85), hepatitis C virus infection (AOR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.22–1.83), hyperlipidemia (OR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.12–1.78), and treatment with protease inhibitors (AOR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.05–1.69).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that HZ concurrent with HIV may increase the risk of stroke. The incidence rates of stroke were independent of common risk factors, suggesting strategies for early prevention of HZ infection among people living with HIV.
Visit-to-visit HbA1c variability is associated with poor prognosis in peritoneal dialysis patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zhang Fengping , Shi Taotao , Feng Xiaoran , Shi Yunying , Zhang Guilin , Liu Yu , Fu Ping
Published: September 2023

Background

The prognosis of diabetic peritoneal dialysis patients is poor. HbA1c serves as a crucial indicator for monitoring blood glucose control in patients with diabetes. Nevertheless, the relationship between visit-to-visit HbA1c variability and prognosis in peritoneal dialysis with diabetes remains unclear.

Methods

All participants were categorized into 3 groups based on the HbA1c variability score (HVS), which is the frequency of 0.5% (5.5 mmol/mol) alter in visit-to-visit HbA1c values. Then, the hazard ratio to HVS with all-cause mortality was analyzed using the Cox hazard model, followed by the Fine-Gray competing risk model for major adverse cardiovascular events. Subgroup and sensitivity analysis were conducted to ascertain the robustness of the findings.

Results

Eight hundred twenty patients with type 2 diabetes were finally enrolled in this study from 2,855 participants with a mean age of 56.9 ± 14.6 years and a median follow-up time of 44 months [IQR: 27–70], death occurred in 496 (60.2%) individuals. Compared with the lowest category (HVS < 1/3) after being adjusted by potential confounding factors, the hazard ratio for all-cause mortality was 4.59 (3.74–5.64) and the sub-distribution hazard ratio for major adverse cardiovascular events was 1.91 (1.46–2.51) of the highest category (HVS ≥ 2/3). Subgroup interaction and sensitivity analysis, including the adjustment for variables such as time-weighted average HbA1c, HbA1c measurement times and expansion, confirmed the reliability of the results.

Conclusion

The HVS is related to the risk of poor prognosis in peritoneal dialysis with type 2 diabetes mellitus, independently of clinical multiple variables, and is a novel indicator with clinical guidance.
Pulmonary vein perforation into the respiratory tract with systemic air embolism: a rare complication of left atrial appendage closure
Authors: Qiao Zhiqing , Zhao Liang , Xu Bin , Zou Zhiguo , Cheng Fuyu , Zhou Zien , Xie Yuquan , Pu Jun
Published: September 2023

Background

Pulmonary vein perforation is an uncommon complication during cardiac intervention. We present a rare case of pulmonary vein perforation into the respiratory tract with systemic air embolism during left atrial appendage closure (LAAC).

Case presentation

A 77-year-old man with persistent nonvalvular atrial fibrillation was referred for percutaneous LAAC under local anaesthesia (CHA2DS2-VASc score of 4, HAS-BLED score of 3, and prior ischaemic stroke). During the procedure, after delivering a super-stiff guidewire into the left superior pulmonary vein (LSPV), the patient suddenly developed a severe cough with haemoptysis upon advancement of a delivery sheath along the guidewire. Fluoroscopy showed signs of blood entering the left main bronchus, and fast transthoracic echocardiography revealed bubbles in the left heart without pericardial effusion. The procedure was terminated because of a major complication indicated by the repeated haemoptysis and headache, and haemostatic drugs were immediately administered. Subsequent chest computed tomography angiography (CTA) revealed a filling defect in the LSPV branches and bubbles in the aorta. The patient was transferred to the critical care unit for haemostasis and antibacterial treatment. Transthoracic echocardiography later that day showed no bubbles in the heart. The headache and haemoptysis significantly abated the following day. The bubbles in the aorta disappeared on chest CTA 7 days later.

Conclusions

Interventional cardiologists should pay attention to anatomical variations of the pulmonary vein, which are associated with a high risk of complications of pulmonary vein perforation during LAAC. Preoperative CTA examination and intraoperative transoesophageal echocardiography might be helpful to avoid this complication.
Pre-service healthcare professionals attitudes and self-efficacy towards individuals with intellectual disability in Ghana
Authors: Opoku Maxwell Peprah , Elhoweris Hala , Amponteng Michael , Nketsia William , Torgbenu Eric Lawer , Saah Reuben
Published: September 2023

Background

Intellectual disability (ID) involves impairment of general mental abilities, restricting the participation of individuals in conceptual, social and practical activities. Consequently, rehabilitation services are critical in efforts towards promoting the social and educational inclusion of persons with ID. However, the preparedness of health professionals in performing such a role depends on their perceptions of individuals with ID. Ajzen’s theory of planned behaviour was used as theoretical framework to understand the relationship between the perceived attitude and self-efficacy of healthcare students towards persons with ID.

Method

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among healthcare students (N = 328) in a Ghanaian university. The Community Living Attitude Scale for ID(CLAS-ID) and General Self-efficacy (GSE) Scale were employed to assess their attitudes and self-efficacy towards people with ID respectively. The data were analysed using SPSS and AMOS and were subjected to a t-test, ANOVA, correlation and regression.

Result

The healthcare students were ambivalent about both self-efficacy and attitudes towards persons with ID, and there was correlation between attitudes and self-efficacy. Attitudes and self-efficacy also varied across the demographic characteristics of the respondents including age, having a relative with ID, level of study, religion, and programme of study.

Conclusion

The study underscores the necessity for healthcare curriculum reform and provides corresponding recommendations. The study emphasizes the importance of enhancing healthcare students' understanding of ID, changing their attitudes, and bolstering their self-efficacy. This is crucial to foster positive attitudes, confidence in providing support to individuals with ID, and raising awareness within the broader community. To achieve this, health educators are encouraged to incorporate exposure to individuals with ID into healthcare students' training, along with more structured field experiences designed to increase their contact and interaction with individuals with ID. Such initiatives would enable students to better understand the uniqueness and requirements of individuals with ID.
Establishment and validation of an immune infiltration predictive model for ovarian cancer
Authors: Song Zhenxia , Zhang Jingwen , Sun Yue , Jiang Zhongmin , Liu Xiaoning
Published: September 2023

Background

The most prevalent mutation in ovarian cancer is the TP53 mutation, which impacts the development and prognosis of the disease. We looked at how the TP53 mutation associates the immunophenotype of ovarian cancer and the prognosis of the disease.

Methods

We investigated the state of TP53 mutations and expression profiles in culturally diverse groups and datasets and developed an immune infiltration predictive model relying on immune-associated genes differently expressed between TP53 WT and TP53 MUT ovarian cancer cases. We aimed to construct an immune infiltration predictive model (IPM) to enhance the prognosis of ovarian cancer and investigate the impact of the IPM on the immunological microenvironment.

Results

TP53 mutagenesis affected the expression of seventy-seven immune response-associated genes. An IPM was implemented and evaluated on ovarian cancer patients to distinguish individuals with low- and high-IPM subgroups of poor survival. For diagnostic and therapeutic use, a nomogram is thus created. According to pathway enrichment analysis, the pathways of the human immune response and immune function abnormalities were the most associated functions and pathways with the IPM genes. Furthermore, patients in the high-risk group showed low proportions of macrophages M1, activated NK cells, CD8+ T cells, and higher CTLA-4, PD-1, PD-L1, and TIM-3 than patients in the low-risk group.

Conclusions

The IPM model may identify high-risk patients and integrate other clinical parameters to predict their overall survival, suggesting it is a potential methodology for optimizing ovarian cancer prognosis.
Comparative cardiovascular safety of LABA/LAMA FDC versus LABA/ICS FDC in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a population-based cohort study with a target trial emulation framework
Authors: Chen Chun-Yu , Pan Sheng-Wei , Hsu Chia-Chen , Liu Jason J. , Kumamaru Hiraku , Dong Yaa-Hui
Published: September 2023

Background

Use of combinations of long-acting β2 agonists/long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LABA/LAMA) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is increasing. Nevertheless, existing evidence on cardiovascular risk associated with LABA/LAMA versus another dual combination, LABA/inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), was limited and discrepant.

Aim

The present cohort study aimed to examine comparative cardiovascular safety of LABA/LAMA and LABA/ICS with a target trial emulation framework, focusing on dual fixed-dose combination (FDC) therapies.

Methods

We identified patients with COPD who initiated LABA/LAMA FDC or LABA/ICS FDC from a nationwide Taiwanese database during 2017–2020. The outcome of interest was a hospitalized composite cardiovascular events of acute myocardial infarction, unstable angina, heart failure, cardiac dysrhythmia, and ischemic stroke. Cox regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for composite and individual cardiovascular events after matching up to five LABA/LAMA FDC initiators to one LABA/ICS FDC initiator using propensity scores (PS).

Results

Among 75,926 PS-matched patients, use of LABA/LAMA FDC did not show a higher cardiovascular risk compared to use of LABA/ICS FDC, with a HR of 0.89 (95% CI, 0.78–1.01) for the composite events, 0.80 (95% CI, 0.61–1.05) for acute myocardial infarction, 1.48 (95% CI, 0.68–3.25) for unstable angina, 1.00 (95% CI, 0.80–1.24) for congestive heart failure, 0.62 (95% CI, 0.37–1.05) for cardiac dysrhythmia, and 0.82 (95% CI, 0.66–1.02) for ischemic stroke. The results did not vary substantially in several pre-specified sensitivity and subgroup analyses.

Conclusion

Our findings provide important reassurance about comparative cardiovascular safety of LABA/LAMA FDC treatment among patients with COPD.
UAV-assisted NOMA secure communications: joint transmit power and trajectory optimization
Authors: Han Ruibo , Wang Yongjian , Zhang Yang
Published: September 2023

With the inherent advantages of exceptional maneuverability, flexible deployment options and cost-effectiveness, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) present themselves as a viable solution for providing aerial communication services to Internet of Things devices in high-traffic or remote areas. Nevertheless, the openness of the air–ground channel poses significant security challenges to UAV-based wireless systems. In this paper, a UAV-assisted secure communication system model is established based on non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) from the perspective of physical layer security, aiming to conceal the transmission behavior between UAVs and legitimate users (LUs). Specifically, a mobile UAV assumes the role of an aerial base station, leveraging NOMA technique to transmit data to LUs while evading detection from mobile eavesdropper situated on the ground. To fortify the security performance of the system, a hovering UAV acts as a friendly jammer and transmits interference signals to mobile eavesdropper (referred to as Eve). The objective of this scheme is to maximize the minimum average secure rate of all LUs by meticulously optimizing the trajectory and power allocation of the mobile UAV, subject to secrecy performance constraints. The highly interdependent and non-convex nature of this optimization problem renders direct solutions infeasible. Hence, this paper designs an efficient iterative algorithm that decouples the original problem into two subproblems, enabling an alternating optimization process for the trajectory and power allocation of the mobile UAV until the convergence of the objective function is achieved. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm effectively improves the minimum average secure rate of all LUs compared with the benchmark scheme.
Comparison of clinical characteristics between adult-onset and juvenile-onset non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis in Chinese patients: results from the COCAS cohort
Authors: Huang Shu-Xin , Li Hao-Guang , Liang Hong-Jin , Wang Dan-Min , Peng Jian-Hua , Shen Feng-Cai , Li Wei-Ping , Lin Ling , Xiao Zheng-Yu , Hou Zhi-Duo
Published: September 2023

Background

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease predominantly affecting the axial skeleton. We aimed to describe the clinical characteristics of patients with non-radiographic axSpA (nr-axSpA) in China and compare the differences between adult- and juvenile-onset cases.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from 776 patients with nr-axSpA in the Clinical Characteristic and Outcome in Chinese Axial Spondyloarthritis (COCAS) study cohort. Patients were divided into two groups including the adult-onset group (n = 662) and the juvenile-onset group (n = 114) according to age at disease onset. Baseline demographics and clinical characteristics were compared between patients with adult-onset and juvenile-onset nr-axSpA.

Results

Overall, the male-to-female ratio was 1.26:1, the prevalence of HLA-B27 positivity was 72.2%, and the median age at disease onset of nr-axSpA was 22 years. Nearly 75% of nr-axSpA patients had peripheral arthritis in the disease course, and the prevalence of extra-articular manifestations was 10.4%. The juvenile-onset group contained a higher proportion of men (66.7% vs. 53.9%, P = 0.011) and a longer baseline disease duration (4.0 [4.0] vs. 1.6 [3.5], P < 0.001) than the adult-onset group. A family history of spondyloarthritis was more frequent in the juvenile-onset group than in the adult-onset group (23.7% vs. 15.4%, P = 0.028), but no significant difference in the prevalence of HLA-B27 positivity was observed between the two groups (P = 0.537). Regarding initial symptoms, peripheral arthritis occurred more often in patients with juvenile-onset nr-axSpA, whereas patients with adult-onset nr-axSpA presented more frequently with axial involvement. The prevalence of inflammatory back pain (IBP) was higher in the adult-onset group than in the juvenile-onset group (85.0% vs. 75.4%, P = 0.010), whereas the juvenile-onset group showed a higher prevalence of peripheral arthritis and enthesitis than the adult-onset group (67.5% vs. 48.5%, P < 0.001; 35.1% vs. 23.3%, P = 0.007, respectively).

Conclusions

Compared with adult-onset nr-axSpA, juvenile-onset nr-axSpA was more common in men and those with a family history of spondyloarthritis. Juvenile-onset nr-axSpA presents with a “peripheral predominant” mode at disease onset and a higher frequency of peripheral arthritis and enthesitis during the disease course.
Dissecting tumor antigens and immune subtypes for mRNA vaccine development in breast cancer
Authors: Li Lang , He Lvyuan , Zhu Ying
Published: September 2023

Purposes

Cancer mRNA vaccines are a promising strategy and a hot topic in cancer immunotherapy. However, mRNA vaccines for breast cancer (BRCA) remain undeveloped. This study aimed to identify potential tumor antigens for mRNA vaccine development and a population with BRCA suitable for vaccination.

Methods

Gene expression profiles and the clinical information of the TCGA-BRCA (the Cancer Genome Atlas Breast Cancer) and METABRIC (Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium) cohorts were downloaded from the TCGA and cBioPortal databases, respectively. cBioPortal was used to identify mutant genes. DEG (differentially expressed gene) identification and survival analysis were performed with the GEPIA2 tool. ssGSEA (single-sample gene set enrichment analysis) was applied to estimate abundances of 28 immune cells for each sample. An unsupervised consensus clustering algorithm was used to identify ISs (immune subtypes). A graph learning-based dimensionality reduction analysis algorithm was utilized to construct an immune landscape. WGCNA (weighted correlation network analysis) was performed to identify immune gene modules.

Results

Four potential tumor antigens, i.e., SLC7A5, CHPF, CCNE1, and CENPW, associated with poor prognosis and APCs (antigen-presenting cells) among overexpressed and mutated genes were identified in BRCA. Two ISs (IS1-2) characterized by distinct clinical, immune cell infiltration, and molecular features were observed in both the TCGA-BRCA and METABRIC cohorts. BRCA patients with IS2 tumors related to poor prognosis had an immune "hot" phenotype, while those patients with IS1 tumors related to superior prognosis had an immune "cold" phenotype. Distinct IS tumors were observed in different ICD (immunogenic cell death modulator) and ICP (immune checkpoint) expression profiles. The immune landscape showed an immune distribution in BRCA patients. Additionally, we identified 2 immune gene modules with different biological functions.

Conclusions

SLC7A5, CHPF, CCNE1, and CENPW are the potential tumor antigens for mRNA vaccine development with BRCA. Patients with IS2 tumors are a suitable population for mRNA vaccination. This study provides a new insight into mRNA vaccine development, population selection for vaccination, and prognosis prediction.
Role of fluid on seismicity of an intra-plate earthquake zone in Western India: an electrical fingerprint from magnetotelluric study
Authors: Borah Ujjal K. , Patro Prasanta K. , Raju Khasi , Reddy K. Chinna , Babu Narendra , Rao P. Rama , Rao N. Purnachandra
Published: September 2023

The magnetotelluric (MT) investigation carried out in Koyna Seismogenic Zone (KSZ), an intra-plate earthquake region in Western India, along an E–W profile brings out moderately conductive (~ 700–1000 Ωm) near vertical features within the very high resistive (> 20,000 Ωm) granite/granite-gneiss basement. Occurrences of these anomalous moderate conductors are corroborated with sensitivity analysis. The alignment of earthquake hypocenters along the resistive–conductive boundary signifies the moderate conductor as basement fault. The conversion of resistivity values to the ratio of seismic P- to S-wave velocity (vp/vs) suggests that the moderate conductivity of the fault zone (as compared to the surrounding basement) appears due to the presence of fluid in the fault zone. Geophysical evidences reveal ~ 2.5–3.6 vol% fluid in the fault zone with ~ 1.8–2.6% interconnected porosity, which migrates along the structural boundary and invades the mechanically strong basement to nucleate the brittle failure within it. The present study proposes two mechanisms for the seismicity in the Koyna region. First: the meteoric water circulation due to the loading–unloading of nearby Koyna reservoir acts as potential fluid source for this triggered seismicity, which has also been suggested by previous studies. Second: the fluid circulation due to a deep-seated source. The present MT study brings out a conductive feature below 20 km depth which is thought to be emerged due to the dehydration of amphibole bearing rocks. The fluid generated from dehydration might act as a probable source to the triggered seismicity; since the conductive feature has a linkage to the upper crust.

Graphical Abstract
Functional performance recovery after individualized nutrition therapy combined with a patient-tailored physical rehabilitation program versus standard physiotherapy in patients with long COVID: a pilot study
Authors: Roggeman Stijn , Jimenez Garcia Berenice Gabriela , Leemans Lynn , Demol Joy , Geers Janne , De Smedt Ann , Putman Koen , Schiltz Marc , Beckwée David , De Waele Elisabeth
Published: September 2023

Background

Long COVID is suggested to be present in 14 to 43% of COVID 19-survivors. Literature on this new condition states a need for a multidisciplinary approach including physical exercise and nutrition. The aim of the current pilot study is to investigate the feasibility of the proposed protocol to prepare for a randomized controlled study that addresses the effectiveness of a personalized multimodal treatment compared to standard physiotherapy.

Methods

This is a protocol of the UNLOCK (Nutrition and LOComotoric rehabilitation in long COVID) study, a pragmatic, single center, randomized controlled pilot trial with two groups. Patients with persisting symptoms related to a SARS-CoV-2 infection will receive either standard physiotherapy or a personalized multimodal treatment for a period of 12 weeks, consisting of individualized physical exercise program combined with individualized nutritional therapy. They will be followed-up at 6, 12, and 18 weeks after randomization.

Discussion

A multidisciplinary approach for dealing with long COVID is needed. Because of the lack of clear data and the fact that this is a very heterogenic group, we aim to prepare and optimize a randomized controlled study that addresses the effectiveness of a personalized multimodal treatment.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05254301 (since February 24, 2022).
The effect of ocular rinse volume on surface irritation after povidone-iodine preparation for intravitreal injections: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jamshidi Farzad , Jin Haoxing D. , Bruce Andrew , Kutteh Michael , Ding Kai , Riaz Kamran M. , Kingsley Ronald M. , Shah Vinay A.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To evaluate whether the volume of wash out rinse after povidone iodine (PI) application for intravitreal injections (IVI) affects patients’ ocular surface irritation.

Methods

This was a prospective, single-masked, randomized-controlled trial consisting of 142 subjects. A total of 51, 45, and 46 patients received 3-mL, 10-mL, and 15-mL of ocular rinse respectively. Reductions in the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and the Standardized Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness II (SPEED II) surveys, conducted before and at 24–72 h post-injection, were analyzed.

Results

There was no statistical difference in objective dry eye findings of Schirmer test (p-value = 0.788), tear break-up time (p-value = 0.403), Oxford fluorescein grade (p-value = 0.424) between the study groups prior to injections. Dry eye symptoms as measured by reductions in the OSDI and SPEEDII scores were not different between the study groups (p-value = 0.0690 and 0.6227, respectively).

Conclusion

There is no difference in patients’ ocular surface irritation between 3-mL, 10-mL, and 15-mL post injection rinse. Given the large number of IVIs performed, modification of practice patterns based on these findings could lead to significant reduction in global cost burden for IVIs.
[18F]Fluorocholine PET/CT false positive: foreign body reaction mimicking anaplastic glioma progression. A case report
Authors: Rudolphi-Solero Teodoro , Triviño-Ibáñez Eva María , Martínez-Barbero José Pablo , Cordero-Tous Nicolás , Chamorro-Santos Clara Eugenia , Rodríguez-Fernández Antonio , Gómez-Río Manuel María
Published: September 2023

Background

Foreign body reaction in brain tissue is a very rare immune response that has not been well studied. Hemostatic material has been reported as a possible trigger of this response in other organs and could be detected by [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computerized tomography ([18F]FDG PET/CT), but there is no reported experience about the role of [18F]fluorocholine in this finding. [18F]Fluorocholine has the potential to differentiate viable central nervous system tumors from other entities, so it is frequently used in the follow-up of neurosurgery patients.

Case presentation

A right frontoparietal neoplastic lesion was found in a young-aged patient with analgesic refractory headache. Surgical resection and postsurgical radiotherapy were performed, and the pathologist analysis turned out a cellular ependymoma with signs of anaplasia. In the follow-up, an magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a suspicious lesion, so a [18F]fluorocholine PET/CT was performed. Increased uptake was described in the right parietal region on the margin of the residual cystic lesion. The patient got a complete resection which was confirmed later by MRI. In the pathology analysis, a focally congestive cerebral parenchyma with a central histiocytic reaction to a foreign body area was described.

Conclusions

Following the experience of the current case report, [18F]fluorocholine PET/CT could also show a false positive related to foreign body reaction. This entity should be considered to avoid unnecessary major surgery on our patients.
Immune-mediated hematological disease in dogs is associated with alterations of the fecal microbiota: a pilot study
Authors: Liu P.-Y. , Xia D. , McGonigle K. , Carroll A. B. , Chiango J. , Scavello H. , Martins R. , Mehta S. , Krespan E. , Lunde E. , LeVine D. , Fellman C. L. , Goggs R. , Beiting D. P. , Garden O. A.
Published: September 2023

Background

The dog is the most popular companion animal and is a valuable large animal model for several human diseases. Canine immune-mediated hematological diseases, including immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), share many features in common with autoimmune hematological diseases of humans. The gut microbiome has been linked to systemic illness, but few studies have evaluated its association with immune-mediated hematological disease. To address this knowledge gap, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to profile the fecal microbiota of dogs with spontaneous IMHA and ITP at presentation and following successful treatment. In total, 21 affected and 13 healthy control dogs were included in the study.

Results

IMHA/ITP is associated with remodeling of fecal microbiota, marked by decreased relative abundance of the spirochete Treponema spp., increased relative abundance of the pathobionts Clostridium septicum and Escherichia coli, and increased overall microbial diversity. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that Treponema spp. were associated with decreased risk of IMHA/ITP (odds ratio [OR] 0.24–0.34), while Ruminococcaceae UCG-009 and Christensenellaceae R-7 group were associated with increased risk of disease (OR = 6.84 [95% CI 2–32.74] and 8.36 [95% CI 1.85–71.88] respectively).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates an association of immune-mediated hematological diseases in dogs with fecal dysbiosis, and points to specific bacterial genera as biomarkers of disease. Microbes identified as positive or negative risk factors for IMHA/ITP represent an area for future research as potential targets for new diagnostic assays and/or therapeutic applications.
Mismatch between school furniture dimensions and anthropometric parameters is a risk for spinal deformities in secondary school students in Lagos, Nigeria: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Aiyegbusi Ayoola Ibifubara , Gbiri Caleb Ademola , Oyeniran Tolulope Olaoluwa , Balogun Oluwaseyi Jessy
Published: September 2023

Background

A mismatch between school furniture dimensions and anthropometric parameters has been well documented in adolescents, but there is a paucity of data on the impact of these mismatches on the students’ spinal health in Nigeria. This study therefore investigated the relationship of spinal deformities with selected anthropometric parameters and furniture dimensions of adolescents in secondary schools.

Methods

This study involved 540 apparently healthy students between the ages of 10 and 19 years from 9 public and private secondary schools in Lagos state, Nigeria. The furniture dimensions, anthropometric parameters, and spinal curvature disorders were evaluated using standard protocol. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 with a level of significance set at p < 0.05.

Results

Two hundred two (37%) of the participants had abnormal spinal curvatures in varying types and degrees. There was a significant association at p ≤ 0.05 between the presence of spinal deformities and popliteal height to seat height mismatch (X2 = 175.67, p = 0.001), hip breadth to seat width mismatch (X2 = 293.14, p = 0.00), and shoulder height to backrest height mismatch (X2 = 788.16, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Anthropometric parameters to furniture dimensions mismatch are significantly associated with the presence of spinal deformities among the students. The main cause of mismatch is using a homogeneous size of furniture for all students in addition to non-consideration of the students’ dimensions during furniture manufacturing.
Pan-Cancer Analysis of Copy-Number Features Identifies Recurrent Signatures and a Homologous Recombination Deficiency Biomarker to Predict Poly (ADP-Ribose) Polymerase Inhibitor Response
Authors: Moore Jay A. , Chen Kuei-Ting , Madison Russell , Newberg Justin Y. , Fleischmann Zoe , Wang Shuoguo , Sharaf Radwa , Murugesan Karthikeyan , Fendler Bernard J. , Hughes Jason , Schrock Alexa B. , Hegde Priti S. , Oxnard Geoffrey R. , Fabrizio David , Frampton Garrett M. , Antonarakis Emmanuel S. , Sokol Ethan S. , Jin Dexter X.
Published: September 2023

Analysis of 260K tumors IDs copy-number signatures and a HRD biomarker predictive of PARPi response.
Water in Fullerenes
Authors: Hashikawa Yoshifumi , Murata Yasujiro
Published: September 2023

A water molecule fixed within [60]fullerene is the simplest form of water available in meatspace. It was first artificially made by us in 2011. Since then, anomalies of water molecules free from any hydrogen-bonding have been discovered in succession. In this account, we summarize the research progress in the past decade from the aspect of synthesis, derivatization, and reactivity of fullerenes with water inside as well as their quantum and classical dynamics.
Coordination and Bandwagon Effects: How Past Rankings Shape the Behavior of Voters and Candidates
Authors: Granzier Riako , Pons Vincent , Tricaud Clemence
Published: September 2023

Candidates' placements in polls and past elections can be powerful coordination devices for parties and voters. Using a regression discontinuity design in French two-round elections, we show that candidates who place first in the first round are more likely to stay in the race and win than those who placed second. These effects are even larger for ranking second versus third, and also present for third versus fourth. They stem from allied parties agreeing on which candidate should drop out, voters coordinating their choice, and the bandwagon effect of wanting to vote for the winner. We find similar results across 19 other countries. (JEL D72, D83, D91, K16)
Information Dynamics and Macro Fluctuations
Authors: Chousakos Kyriakos , Gorton Gary , Ordoñez Guillermo
Published: September 2023

The amount of information produced about firms’ productivities and about the quality of collateral backing their loans varies over time. These information dynamics determine the evolution of credit, output and productivity, which feeds back into incentives to produce information. We characterize this intricate dynamic relation. A credit boom happens when information about collateral depreciates. A financial crisis happens when information about collateral is suddenly generated. Information about firms’ individual productivities over credit booms can prevent or tame the crisis, acting as an endogenous macroprudential force. (JEL D24, D83, E32, E44, G01, G32)
Trade Policies and Fiscal Devaluations
Authors: Erceg Christopher , Prestipino Andrea , Raffo Andrea
Published: September 2023

Fiscal devaluations—an increase in import tariffs and export subsidies (IX) or an increase in value-added taxes and payroll subsidies (VP)—have been shown to provide as much stimulus under fixed exchange rates as a currency devaluation. We find that if agents expect policies to be reversed and the tax pass-through is large, VP is contractionary and IX provides a modest boost. In our medium-scale DSGE model, both features are crucial in accounting for Germany’s underperformance in response to VP in 2007. These findings cast doubt on fiscal devaluations as a cyclical stabilization tool when monetary policy is constrained. (JEL E32, E52, E62, F13, F33, H20)