bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term outcome after Sphinkeeper ® surgery for treating fecal incontinence – who are good candidates?
Authors: Dawoud Christopher , Widmann Kerstin Melanie , Pereyra David , Harpain Felix , Riss Stefan
Published: August 2023

Purpose: The long-term effect of the novel Sphinkeeper® procedure for treatment of faecal incontinence (FI) still remains unknown.
This study aimed to assess long-term functional outcomes after Sphinkeeper® surgery. Parameters of subjective and objective treatment success and the effect of prostheses dislocation were analysed.
Methods: The study was conducted at a tertiary referral center between August 2018 and September 2021 including 32 patients with FI (28 female and 4 male).
Functional outcome and quality of life were assessed using validated questionnaires before surgery, after 3, 6, 12 months and at the last follow-up appointment. Endo-anal ultrasound and anal manometry were conducted prior to Sphinkeeper® implantation and postoperatively.
Results: The mean follow-up time was 22.62 ± 8.82 months. 53.8% of patients reported having a symptom relief of at least 50% at the last follow-up. St. Mark's incontinence score decreased significantly after surgery (last follow-up visit: p=0.001). Similarly, physical Short Form health survey significantly improved after Sphinkeeper® implantation (p=0.011).
Patients with a higher degree of internal sphincter defect showed an improved objective therapy sucess (r=0.633, p=0.015) after Sphinkeeper® operation, whereas the type and severity of FI had no impact on the functional outcome. Notably, a higher number of dislocated prostheses (r=0.772, p=0.015) showed a significant correlation with reduced improvement of incontinence.
Conclusion: The Sphinkeeper® procedure showed a significant long-term functional improvement in over half of the enrolled patients. Patients with a higher internal sphincter defect benefited most from the Sphinkeeper® operation. Dislocation of the prostheses was associated with less favourable results.
Outcome after neck dissection – a single center cohort study
Authors: Molnár Krisztina , Käkilehto Sanni , Liisanantti Janne , Koivunen Petri , Kaakinen Timo , Nurkkala Juho , Lahtinen Sanna
Published: August 2023

Background
Postoperative complications and their impact on long-term outcome after neck dissection are not well studied. We wanted to assess postoperative complications and long-term survival in this patient group.
Methods
A total of 196 procedures were reviewed from the medical records among patients undergoing neck dissection between years 2014-2019. Medical and surgical complications as well as 5 years survival were recorded and evaluated postoperatively.
Results
A total of 42 (21.4%) surgical and 30 (15.3%) medical complications were recorded. In Cox regression, ASA classification > 2 (OR 2.92 (1.23-3.92) P=0.008) HR 1.97 (1.05-3.70)), pre- or postoperative irradiation (OR 2.21 (1.28 - 3.82) P=0.004. and medical complications (OR 2.45 (1.33 - 4.51) P=0.004) HR 1.92 (1.02-3.61)) were associated to 5-year mortality.
Conclusion
Medical complications and five-year mortality after neck dissection were associated with patients` chronic medical conditions.
Efficiency Droop Free UV-C LED by introducing p-doped LQB and p- n-p-n-p doped AlGaN Hole Injection Layer
Authors: Mazumder Indrani , Sapra Kashish , Chauhan Ashok , Mathew Manish , Singh Kuldip
Published: August 2023

The photosensitive and electrical characteristics of almost efficiency-droop-free UV-C LEDs with a Mg-doped LQB and Si-doped shallow periodic electron injection layer in between Mg-doped EBL and Hole injection layer are studied numerically in order to enhance the optical and electrical performance. SiLENSe software is used to look into the QB-QWs region's IQE, energy band profiles, electron and hole concentration, and radiative recombination rates. The findings show that the proposed UV-C LED has peak IQE 140% higher than the reference one, which is generally related to the improvement of electron and hole function overlapping in QB-QWs region. The proposed modification would decrease hole barrier depth by 64% in LQB-EBL, which is what causes the 190% better hole injection from Mg-doped layer.
On Implementing Stabilizing Leader Election with Weak Assumptions on Network Dynamics † ‡
Authors: Altisen Karine , Devismes Stéphane , Durand Anaïs , Johnen Colette , Petit Franck
Published: August 2023

We consider self-stabilization and its weakened form called pseudo-stabilization. We study conditions under which (pseudo- and self-) stabilizing leader election is solvable in networks subject to frequent topological changes. To model such an high dynamics, we use the dynamic graph (DG) paradigm and study a taxonomy of nine important DG classes. Our results show that self-stabilizing leader election can only be achieved in the classes where all processes are sources. Furthermore, even pseudo-stabilizing leader election cannot be solved in all remaining classes, except in the class where at least one process is a timely source. We illustrate this result by proposing a pseudo-stabilizing leader election algorithm for the latter class. We also show that in this last case, the convergence time of pseudo-stabilizing leader election algorithms cannot be bounded. Nevertheless, we show that our solution is speculative since its convergence time can be bounded when the dynamics is not too erratic, precisely when all processes are timely sources.
MSC Classification: 68W15 68M15
Accounting for variety
Authors: Winkler Julian
Published: August 2023

I introduce a general method to account for the distribution of underlying components (variety) in the growth of an aggregate quantity, using the notion of entropy. This accounting decomposition enables a number of insightful applications to index numbers in economics. The cross-entropy of GDP with respect to a benchmark captures the change in its distribution, and thus how well this benchmark matches data for price and volume indices across time. This 'error' changes demonstrably over time. Accounting of variety also lends itself to a decomposition of labour productivity growth by a technology component (how many more 'average' goods are produced per unit of labour?), and the allocation of labour (does the distribution of labour inputs converge to the distribution of outputs?) plus demand (does the distribution of expenditures diverge from the distribution of outputs?).
Examining the Effect of Painting Art on Student Well-Being and the Design Principles of Public Art on Campus
Authors: Huang Lanqing , Zhang Lingyan ,   Cheng Yao1, Ying Fangtian
Published: August 2023

Painting as an art form has the potential to evoke positive emotions and enhance students' well-being. Integrating it into campus art can improve public spaces and cultivate happiness among students. The study aims to explore sketch art's impact on students' happiness and propose adaptable design principles for 3D art on campus. Results indicate artists can effectively use cognitive and visual aspects to create exceptional artworks that harmonize with the campus environment, ultimately elevating student happiness. Further research is recommended to explore how campus art promotes public space development, enhances campus culture, and stimulates student happiness, providing valuable guidance to artists for creating high-quality campus art.
New Constructions of Two-Dimensional Binary Z-Complementary Array Sets with Large Zero Correlation Zone Width
Authors: xie chunlei , Li Chenrui , Sun Yu , Heng Ziling , Ming Yang
Published: August 2023

The one-dimensional (1-D) Z-complementary sequence set (ZCSS) has been widely employed in communications engineering. The concept of 1-D ZCSS can be extended to the two-dimensional (2-D) Z-complementary array set (ZCAS) where the 2-D aperiodic autocorrelations of constituent arrays sum to zero for the 2-D certain shifts.2-D ZCASs play an important role in radar, 2-D multi-carrier code-division multiple access (MC-CDMA) systems, multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) systems, ultra wideband communication systems, etc.In this paper, we focus on designing new 2-D ZCASs by using Boolean functions and concatenation.We first present a direct construction of (2k,2k,2n,142m,2n,122m)-ZCASs by employing Boolean functions.The constructed ZCASs have the largest known zero correlation zone (ZCZ) width and low peak to-mean envelope power (PMEPR).Next, we provide a class of 2-D ZCASs with ZCZ around the end-shift position by using concatenation, which have new lengths and large ZCZ widths.
Is it beneficial for patients with early breast cancer after mastectomy to receive internal mammary node irradiation? A propensity-matched analysis of a retrospective cohort
Authors: Xie Yuxin , Gou Qiheng , Zhang Yingjie
Published: August 2023

Background The association between internal mammary lymph node irradiation (IMNI) and survival in patients with early-stage breast cancer is currently controversial.
Objective We examined the effect of IMNI in patients treated with mastectomy and systemic treatment in China.
Methods We analyzed women with early-stage breast cancer who underwent mastectomy followed by adjuvant chest wall and regional lymph node irradiation (RNI) from the Breast Cancer Information Management System (BCIMS). We analyzed women with early-stage breast cancer who underwent mastectomy followed by adjuvant chest wall and regional lymph node irradiation (RNI) from the BCIMS. Patients were categorized into two groups: those who received IMNI and those who received no IMNI. Disease-free survival (DFS) was the primary endpoint. Cox proportional hazards models and propensity score-matching methods were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and to minimize bias.
Results In accordance with the study inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 1,015 patients were included, of whom 189 received adjuvant irradiation with IMNI and 826 received no IMNI. After propensity score matching, baseline characteristics were well-balanced between the two groups. During a median follow-up of 8.9 years, patients treated with IMNIfailed to achieve a better DFS (HR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.13–0.99; P = 0.04) compared with those treated without IMNI after adjusting for confounders. Subtype analysis further showed that there was an elevated association between IMNI and decreased DFS.
Conclusion In China, our findings suggest that the inclusion of IMNs in the RNI protocol aftermastectomy has no survival benefit over twenty decades ago and needs to be carefully considered. Randomized studies are required to further confirm the influence of IMNI on prognosis.
Multi-Agent Cooperative Game Based Task Computing Mechanism for UAV-Assisted 6G NTN
Authors: Shao Sujie , Su Lili , Guo Shaoyong , Yu Peng , Qiu Xuesong
Published: August 2023

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-Assisted becomes promising prospects for the development of 6G non-terrestrial networks (NTN) due to their low cost, low latency, flexible coverage, and support for emergency response. UAVs utilize close-range multi-point cooperative computing to provide computational, storage, and communication resources for 6G NTN. However, insufficient resources and variable business requirements can lead to node overload or task timeout. Therefore, selecting collaborative nodes and optimizing data transmission paths between non-terrestrial nodes has become a formidable challenge. Due to the capacity constraints, power limitations, time-varying communication links, and increasing terminal demands, existing algorithms face difficulties in meeting the requirements of cooperative computing for nonterrestrial nodes. To solve the issue, this paper proposes a multi-task cooperative computing mechanism that focuses on node selection and path optimization. Furthermore, node selection and path optimization algorithm based on multiagent proximal policy optimization (NSPO-MAPPO) is designed to optimize the latency-aware multi-task cooperative computing objective, thereby improving computational task execution efficiency and service quality. Experimental comparisons with other algorithms demonstrate the effectiveness of our method in minimizing latency, enhancing task load balancing, and ensuring stable and reliable cooperative computing services for non-terrestrial nodes.
Fabricated of Bio-Filter to Improve Drainage Water
Authors: Sehsah Elsayed
Published: August 2023

The aim of the current research is to manufacture a bio-filter to improve the usage of drainage water and assess the added value of applying the low-cost rice straw filter in achieving higher water productivity, a cleaner product, and a cleaner environment, as well as reducing waste loads in water and improving water use efficiency. The laboratory unit test consisted of two main plastic tanks, a hydraulic centrifugal pump with 0.736 kW (1 hp), mechanical valves, a water tap flow instrument, pipes line, a pressure gauge manometer, and a rice straw filter. The first tank with a capacity of 100 liters of plastic material was used to collect the wastewater. The quality parameters for control pad fish water values before treatment were 478 mg/L, 305.9 mg/L, 156 mg/L, and 487 mg/L for COD, BOD, TDS, and TSS, respectively. The quality parameters for pad fish values after using the rice straw filter treatment were 34 mg/L, 22.2 mg/L, 21 mg/L, and 316 mg/L for COD, BOD, TDS, and TSS, respectively. The NH3 value for control wastewater was 10.4 mg/L compared to 7.12 mg/L, 6.8 mg/L, and 6 mg/L after using the developed rice straw filter at retention time 30 min, 45 min, and 60 min, respectively. Additionally, the maximum reduction of the COD, BOD, TDS, and TSS values was 85.58%, 85.82%, 79.75%, and 46.46% for using the manufactured cleaning unit with the developed rice straw filter, respectively.
An analysis of the convergence problem of a function in functional norms by applying the product Hausdorff operator
Authors: Swagata Swagata Nandy
Published: August 2023

In this study, we have obtained results regarding the convergence properties of a function of derived conjugate Fourier series in weighted Lipschitz and generalized Holder spaces. These results were obtained by utilizing the product Hausdorff operator. Several intriguing applications of our findings are also examined to observe the convergence behaviour of the function in the aforementioned spaces.
2010 MSC: 41A10, 42A10, 42B05.
Factors associated with the failure to achieve door to balloon time ≤90 minutes in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in an electrocardiogram triage system: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Inoue Atsuhito , Mizobe Michiko , Takahashi Jin , Funakoshi Hiraku
Published: August 2023

Background
Door to balloon time is a crucial factor of mortality in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. However, the factors that contribute to failure of achieving door to balloon time ≤90 minutes in an electrocardiogram triage system remain unknown.
Methods
This single-center retrospective observational study collected data from consecutive patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction from April 2016 to March 2021. The primary outcome was the failure to achieve door to balloon time ≤90 minutes. A multivariate logistic regression model was performed to predict factors associated with failure to achieve door to balloon time ≤90 minutes.
Results
In total, 190 eligible patients were included. Of these, the 139 (73.2%) patients with door to balloon time ≤90 minutes were significantly younger compared to those with door to balloon time >90 minutes (p=0.02). However, there was no significant difference in sex and timing of hospital arrival between the door to balloon time ≤90 and >90 minutes groups. Presence of chest pain and ambulance usage were significantly more frequent in patients with door to balloon time ≤90 minutes (p≤0.01, p=0.02, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that absence of chest pain (adjusted odds ratio 4.76; 95% confidence interval, 2.04-11.1; p<0.01) and non-ambulance usage (adjusted odds ratio 3.53; 95% confidence interval, 1.57-7.94; p<0.01) are predictive factors of failure to achieve door to balloon time ≤90 minutes.
Conclusion
Patients without chest pain as the chief complaint or non-ambulance usage were significantly associated with the failure to achieve door to balloon time ≤90 minutes.
Action and Interaction of Amyloid-β and Insulin on the Dopamine Release and Reuptake in the Lateral Dorsal Striatum of Rats
Authors: Mukhin Valery N. , Borovets Ivan R. , Sizov Vadim V. , Klimenko Victor M.
Published: August 2023

Accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) in the brain is an important link in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Experimental studies show that Aβ can cause the dopaminergic dysfunction that is characteristic of this disease, and under Aβ influence not only the decrease but also the increase in phasic dopamine release is possible, depending on the structure of the brain. We aimed to investigate whether Aβ in a toxic form affects dopamine release or reuptake in the lateral dorsal striatum and, if so, whether this influence is mediated by the insulin signaling pathway. Aβ (fragment 25-35) and insulin solution were injected into the ventricular system of the anesthetized male Wistar rats. Within 10 minutes before and 30 minutes after the injection, electrically evoked dopamine elevations were registered with fast-scan cyclic voltammetry every 5 minutes. Release and reuptake were assessed separately by the kinetic analysis. The results show that Aβ acts on dopamine release and reuptake in the lateral dorsal striatum in several ways. It modulates the effect of insulin on dopamine release and reuptake, apparently acting through the insulin signaling pathway. In addition, Aβ increases dopamine release and basal levels by acting aside of the insulin signaling pathway.
Mixed methods usability evaluation of an assistive wearable robotic hand orthosis for people with spinal cord injury
Authors: Dittli Jan , Meyer Jan Thomas , Gantenbein Jessica , Bützer Tobias , Ranzani Raffaele , Linke Anita , Curt Armin , Gassert Roger , Lambercy Olivier
Published: August 2023

Background Robotic hand orthoses (RHO) aim to provide grasp assistance for people with sensorimotor hand impairment during daily tasks. Many of such devices have been shown to bring a functional benefit to the user. However, assessing functional benefit is not sufficient to evaluate the usability of such technologies for daily life application. A comprehensive and structured evaluation of device usability not only focusing on effectiveness but also efficiency and satisfaction is required, yet often falls short in existing literature. Mixed methods evaluations, i.e., assessing a combination of quantitative and qualitative measures, allow to obtain a more holistic picture of all relevant aspects of device usability. Considering these aspects already in early development stages allows to identify design issues and generate generalizable benchmarks for future developments.
Methods We evaluated the short-term usability of the RELab tenoexo, a RHO for hand function assistance, in 15 users with tetraplegia after a spinal cord injury through a comprehensive mixed methods approach. We collected quantitative data using the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), the System Usability Scale (SUS), and timed tasks such as the donning process. In addition, qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews and user observations, and analyzed with a thematic analysis to enhance the usability evaluation. All insights were attributed and discussed in relation to specifically defined usability attributes such as comfort, ease of use, functional benefit, and safety.
Results The RELab tenoexo provided an immediate functional benefit to the users, resulting in a mean improvement of the ARAT score by 5.8 points and peaking at 15 points improvement for one user (clinically important difference: 5.7 points). The mean SUS rating of 60.6 represents an adequate usability, however, indicating that especially the RHO donning (average task time = 295s) was perceived as too long and cumbersome. The participants were generally very satisfied with the ergonomics (size, dimensions, fit) of the RHO. Increasing the ease of use, specifically in donning, as well as the need for tailoring options and customization were identified as main improvement areas to promote RHO usability.
Conclusion The short-term usability of the RELab tenoexo was thoroughly evaluated with a mixed methods approach, which generated valuable data to improve the RHO in future iterations. In addition, learnings that might be transferable to the evaluation and design of other RHO were generated, which have the potential to increase the daily life applicability and acceptance of similar technologies.
A wind semi-sub platform with hinged floats for omnidirectional swell wave energy conversion
Authors: Stansby Peter , Li Gangqiang
Published: August 2023

The capacity of wind turbines on offshore wind platforms is presently much greater than that for wave energy conversion. However wind availability with speed greater than 5 m/s, just above cut in, is typically 30-40% requiring storage to provide uniformity of supply, but this may be improved by adding swell wave energy conversion with typical availability of 90%. A hybrid platform is considered with three effectively rigid cylindrical floats connected by beams at right angles to support a wind turbine with its base on the central float, and two wave energy floats, opposite the wind floats, with beams at 90o and hinges with dampers for mechanical energy absorption on the central float. With swell periods over 10 s pitch resonance may be achieved with the fore and aft floats about half a wavelength apart with anti-phase forcing causing a moment on hinges above water level. The NREL 5 MW wind turbine is incorporated and average swell wave power absorption in significant wave heights of 2 m is over 200 kW. The analysis is by time domain linear diffraction-radiation modelling validated for other multi-float configurations. Significant wave energy conversion is omnidirectional over a wide range of heading angles. An added benefit is that in larger waves associated with strong winds, when the wave energy conversion would be disengaged, the wave float rotation on free hinges reduces the hub accelerations below that for rigid floats, enabling a longer time for wind power generation.
Phylogenetic and morphological re-evaluation of Camptophora
Authors: Hashimoto Akira , Shibata Saho , Hirooka Yuuri , Ohkuma Moriya
Published: August 2023

The generic variety and habitats of Camptophora species, generally known as black yeasts have not been clarified. Here, we re-evaluated Camptophora based on morphological observations and phylogenetic analyses. Because investigations on Camptophora relied only on a few strains/specimens, twenty-four Camptophora-related strains were newly obtained from 13 leaf samples from various plant species to redefine the generic and species concepts of Camptophora. Their molecular phylogenetic relationships were examined based on the small subunit nuclear ribosomal DNA (nSSU, 18S rDNA), internal transcribed spacer rDNA operon (ITS), large subunit nuclear ribosomal DNA (LSU, 28S rDNA), β-tubulin (tub), the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (rpb2), and mitochondrial small subunit DNA (mtSSU). Single- and multi-locus analyses using SSU-ITS-LSU-rpb2-mtSSU revealed a robust phylogenetic relationship among Camptophora within the Chaetothyriaceae. Camptophora can be distinguished from other chaetothyriaceous genera by its snake-shaped conidia with microcyclic conidiation and loosely interwoven mycelial masses. Based on the results of the phylogenetic analyses, two undescribed lineages were recognised, and Ca. schimae was considered to be excluded from the genus. ITS sequence comparison with environmental DNA (eDNA) sequences revealed the distribution of the genus limited to the Asia-Pacific region. Camptophora has been isolated or detected from abrupt sources, and the reason for this was inferred to be their microcycle. Mechanisms driving genetic diversity within species are discussed with respect to their phyllosphere habitats.
Bradyrhizobium ottawaense efficiently reduces nitrous oxide through high nosZ gene expression
Authors: Wasai-Hara Sawa , Itakura Manabu , Siqueira Arthur Fernandes , Takemoto Daisaku , Sugawara Masayuki , Mitsui Hisayuki , Sato Shusei , Inagaki Noritoshi , Yamazaki Toshimasa , Imaizumi-Anraku Haruko , Shimoda Yoshikazu , Minamisawa Kiwamu
Published: August 2023

N2O is the major greenhouse gases influencing global warming, and agricultural land is the predominant (anthropogenic) source of N2O emissions. Here, we report the high N2O-reducing activity of Bradyrhizobium ottawaense, suggesting the potential for efficiently mitigating N2O emission from agricultural lands. Among the 15 B. ottawaense isolates examined, the N2O-reducing activities of most (13) strains were approximately 5-fold higher than that of Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA110T under anaerobic free-living conditions. This robust N2O-reducing activity of B. ottawaense was confirmed by N2O reductase (NosZ) protein levels and in the soybean rhizosphere after nodule decomposition. While the NosZ of B. ottawaense and B. diazoefficiens showed high homology, nosZ gene expression in B. ottawaense was over 150-fold higher than that in B. diazoefficiens USDA110T, suggesting the high N2O-reducing activity of B. ottawaense is achieved by high nos expression. Furthermore, we examined the nos operon transcription start sites and found that, unlike B. diazoefficiens, B. ottawaense has two transcription start sites under N2O-respiring conditions, which may contribute to the high nosZ expression. Our study proposes the potential of B. ottawaense for effective N2O reduction and unique regulation of nos gene expression that contributes to the high performance of N2O mitigation in the soil.
Risk index evaluation of prefabricated buildings based on Monte Carlo and visual recognition neural network
Authors: Zhu Hui
Published: August 2023

Based on the analysis of the risk occurrence path of prefabricated buildings, this paper identifies the key factors of construction risk, expounds the risk occurrence mechanism of construction, and builds a risk assessment model of construction based on Monte Carlo visual recognition neural network. At present, with the rapid development of social economy, various materials have been excavated and put into use in the field of construction. In addition contemporary problems with materials pollution have become increasingly prominent, especially in the construction industry. People have begun to pursue a more comfortable and environmentally friendly housing environment. Prefabricated buildings have their unique advantages in the modernization of such a construction industry. developed against the background. Due to the change in the construction mode, the quality of design and construction personnel, as well as the existing technical capabilities and supporting facilities have not reached the due level, and the resulting safety problems need to be solved urgently. There are many risk factors in the implementation process, and the risks The probability and consequences are difficult to accurately judge. In this paper, through the identification of risks in prefabricated building projects, a risk index evaluation system is established, and the risk of prefabricated buildings is evaluated and studied risk evaluation, the influence of human subjectivity can be overcome, and the evaluation results can be It is more accurate and reasonable, and finally achieves the purpose of risk management and control, and puts forward corresponding measures according to the evaluation results, which provides new ideas and methods for the risk assessment and model optimization research of prefabricated buildings.
Identify BCAT1 plays an oncogenic role and promotes EMT in KIRC via single cell RNA-seq and experiment
Authors: Li Shiqing , Guo Yinsheng , Zhu Guanhua , Sun Lu , Zhou Feng
Published: August 2023

Background
Elevated expression and promotion of metastasis have been reported for branched-chain amino acid transferase 1 (BCAT1) in various malignancies, such as myeloid leukaemia and glioma. The effect of BCAT1 on the incidence and progression of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (KIRC) is currently unknown.
Methods
Single-cell transcriptomic data GSE159115 was utilized to investigate potential biomarkers in KIRC. After screening, we used BCAT1 as a target gene and investigated its function and mechanism in KIRC through databases such as TCGA-GTEx, using genome enrichment analysis (GSEA), genome variation analysis (GSVA), gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of the Genome (KEGG). BCAT1 expression was detected in clinical tissue samples using Western Blotting (WB) and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining techniques. We established cell lines stably overexpressing and knocking down BCAT1 and performed WB, qRT-PCR, cell scratch assay and transwell assay.
Results
BCAT1 was highly expressed in KIRC and was associated with disease prognosis and TME. Patients with mutations in the BCAT1 gene had shorter overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). patients with high BCAT1 expression had shorter OS, progression-free interval (PFI), and disease-specific survival (DSS). GSEA showed that BCAT1 was significantly enriched in epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). Bioinformatics analysis and WB and IHC staining showed that BCAT1 expression was higher in KIRC than in paracancerous tissues. In vitro experiments confirmed that BCAT1 in KIRC cells may promote EMT affecting its invasion, migration. We constructed a protein interaction network (PPI) to hypothesize proteins that may interact with BCAT1. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) revealed the immune infiltration environment of BCAT1. Furthermore, hypomethylation of the BCAT1 promoter region in KIRC may contribute to disease progression by promoting BCAT1 expression.
Conclusion
BCAT1 promotes KIRC invasion and metastasis through EMT and has prognostic predictive value and potential as a biomarker. It may become a novel biomarker.
Improved survival over time with immunotherapy in locally advanced and metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Schneider Sophie , Ferte Thomas , Ducharme Océane , Dousset Léa , Prey Sorilla , Dutriaux Caroline , Gerard Emilie , Beylot-Barry Marie , PHAM-LEDARD Anne
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second cancer in white-skinned populations. Few data exist about cSCC epidemiology, even less on advanced cases (acSCC). Our objectives were to analyze acSCC patients, to describe their characteristics, management, and outcomes over time.
Methods
A monocentric retrospective study was conducted over 5 years, including all patients who started a systemic therapy for acSCC. Patient’s characteristics, cSCC management, response to therapy, and survival were recorded. Patients were stratified in 2 periods (1 and 2). A subgroup analysis was performed comparing patients who received immunotherapy (group 1) to those who didn’t (group 2).
Results
The study included 127 patients, number of patients increased by an average of 19.7% per year. Most patients were males (88/127), elderly (mean 81.6 years), with comorbidities, 27.6% were immunocompromised. Median overall survival (OS) was better in the period 2 (20 months) compared to the period 1 (10 months)(HR [95% CI] = 0.62 [0.39; 0.98] p = 0.04). The risk of progression increased with age and immunosuppression. Of the 64 patients who received second-line therapy, 38 had immunotherapy (group 1) and 26 received other therapies (group 2). Immunotherapy reduced mortality and progression by respectively 71% (p = 0.004) and 67% ( p = 0.002).
Conclusions
Patients with acSCC are very frail and elderly. OS but not PFS increased with time, with a 2-fold improvement between period 1 and period 2. Access to immunotherapy in majority in period 2 did reduce mortality. Immunosuppression and advanced age were associated with lower PFS.
Bead milling liberates the antioxidant properties of nanosized tubers of Vernonia guineensis Benth. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Meva Francois Eya’ane , Djomaha Ludrice Dorence Yossa , Nasim Muhammad Jawad , Ntoumba Agnes Antoinette , Kouemegne Armelle Michelle Houatchaing , Ottou Patrice Brice Mvogo , Loe Gisele Etame , Dibong Siegfried Didier , Jacob Claus
Published: August 2023

Background
Vernonia guineensis Benth. (Asteraceae), locally known as ‘African ginseng’, is an herbaceous plant with various therapeutic properties, sold by herbalists, and used in several traditional African preparations. Nanosizing has the capability to potentiate those preparations in their pharmacological properties. Premilling and extensive grinding using a planetary ball mill were used to reduce the size of V. guineensis tubers towards antioxidant studies.
Results
Water was used as an environmental friendly, cost effective solvent and dispersant to generate a nanocolloidal suspension of V. guineensis tubers. Size and size distribution were determined via photon correlation spectroscopy at room temperature which allows discussion on stability by Zeta potential and polydispersity index. Phytochemical screening shows presence of alkaloids, coumarins, polyphenol, saponins, tanins, terpenes, and anthraquinones. The distribution curve in water shows a polydispersed system with large hydrodynamic particles of size close to 1000 nm and a Z-average of 484.5 nm. The preparation separate in two phases with polydispersity index 0.217 for the supernatant and 0.543 for the suspension. In the supernatant and suspension, the particles zeta potential were − 12.3 mV and − 13.7mV respectively. The Mastersizer analysis indicates that there are smaller particles in volume in the supernatant than in the suspension. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging capacity shows an increase in antioxidant activity, compared to that of ascorbic acid, in the nanoformulated state.
Conclusions
These findings allow us to conclude on the potential of size reduction when compared to solvent extraction in pharmacologic preparations.
Personality Traits in Large Language Models
Authors: Serapio-García Gregory , Safdari Mustafa , Crepy Clément , Sun Luning , Fitz Stephen , Abdulhai Marwa , Faust Aleksandra , Matarić Maja
Published: August 2023

The advent of large language models (LLMs) has revolutionized natural language processing, enabling the generation of coherent and contextually relevant text. As LLMs increasingly power conversational agents, the synthetic personality embedded in these models, by virtue of training on large amounts of human data, is becoming increasingly important. Since personality is a key factor determining the effectiveness of communication, we present a comprehensive method for administering and validating personality tests on widely-used LLMs, as well as for shaping personality in the generated text of such LLMs. Applying this method, we found: 1) personality measurements in the outputs of some LLMs under specific prompting configurations are reliable and valid; 2) evidence of reliability and validity of synthetic LLM personality is stronger for larger and instruction fine-tuned models; and 3) personality in LLM outputs can be shaped along desired dimensions to mimic specific personality profiles. We discuss application and ethical implications of the measurement and shaping method, in particular regarding responsible use of LLMs.
Frontal Asymmetry in Pilgrims
Authors: Keri Szabolcs
Published: August 2023

Individuals with religious or spiritual problem experience depressive and anxiety symptoms, together with changes in cognitive style and coping. These problems are associated with altered frontal asymmetry (left greater than right) during the processing of religious stimuli. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of pilgrimage on frontal asymmetry. Participants were 50 individuals experiencing religious or spiritual problem according to the DSM-5 criteria. Twenty-five of them participated in a two-week religious pilgrimage, and 25 matched volunteers went on non-religious holidays. We recorded resting-state EEG at baseline and after a religious phase (reading sacred text and listening to music) (NEUVO – CURRY 8X-system, 256-channel). The frontal asymmetry index was calculated for 1-min epochs by subtracting left electrode sites' logarithmically transformed alpha frequency from homologous right leads (F4-F3, F8-F7). Anxiety, depressive symptoms, and rumination were assessed with self-report scales. The psychological and EEG assessments were performed before and after the pilgrimage or holiday. Results revealed that individuals experienced less anxiety, depression, and rumination following the pilgrimage. There was a significant reduction of frontal asymmetry during the processing of religious stimuli in pilgrims. We found no similar changes in volunteers who went on a non-religious holiday. These results indicate that frontal asymmetry and negative emotionality are ameliorated during a pilgrimage in individuals with religious or spiritual problem.
Classification of Nash Equilibria inQuantum Games
Authors: Sakagami Yoshitaka
Published: August 2023

We consider general quantum two-player games and investigate the effect of the degree of entanglement on Nash equilibria. The strategy set is SU(2). Each player's payoffs of the payoff table are different from each other. The purpose of this paper is to classify Nash equilibria by their payoff patterns. We derive all different payoff patterns of Nash equlibria which may occur. Further, for each payoff pattern, we derive all Nash equilibria for which this pattern occurs.
Uso do Arco de Maguerez na concepção de uma educação em saúde sobre práticas integrativas e complementares
Authors: PIRES JUNIOR Ideon Alves , GOMES Ana Júlia Ferreira , FERNANDES Mônica Manzi , RAMOS Gabriela Siqueira Araujo , OLIVEIRA Carina Paulitsch , SILVA Gabriela da
Published: August 2023

Este estudo objetiva relatar a experiência do uso da Metodologia da Problematização com apoio doArco de Maguerez no curso de graduação em Enfermagem, bem como os resultados alcançados. A experiência se deu com 5 alunos de uma instituição de ensino superior pública, localizada em Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Foram realizadas as cinco etapas do Arco de Maguerez: 1. Observação da realidade; 2. Pontos-chave; 3. Teorização; 4. Hipóteses de solução; 5. Aplicação à realidade. A vivência resultou na aplicação de uma ação educativa e em uma educação continuada. Tal ação educativa focou na integralidade da assistência, à medida que cooperou para um cuidado holístico, e agregou a todos os envolvidos conhecimentos de métodosalternativos para a promoção e para a prevenção de agravos da saúde mental e física por meio das práticas integrativas e complementares.
PERSEPSI ATAS PENENTU KEPUTUSAN PEMBELIAN SEPEDA MEREK POLYGON PADA MASA PANDEMI
Authors: Suryaningtyas Lisbet , Andalas Purwani Retno
Published: August 2023

ABSTRAK Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh persepsi harga, kualitas produk dan citra merek terhadap keputusan pembelian sepeda polygon pada masa pandemi di Yogyakarta. Dalam penelitian ini variabel bebasnya adalah pengenalan harga, kualitas produk, dan citra merek, dan variabel terikatnya adalah keputusan pembelian. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah pengguna sepeda polygon di Yogyakarta, dalam masa pandemi. Metode pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan menyebarkan kuisioner kepada konsumen yang membeli sepeda poligon pada masa pandemi di Kota Yogyakarta, dengan jumlah sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah 100 responden. Sebagai metode analisis data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah analisis regresi linier berganda. Berdasarkan analisis data dapat disimpulkan bahwa persepsi harga, kualitas produk, dan brand image berpengaruh signifikan terhadap keputusan pembelian. Kata Kunci: Persepsi Harga, Kualitas Produk, Brand Image, dan Keputusan Pembelian. ABSTRACT This study aims to determine the effect of price perception, product quality and brand image on purchasing decisions on polygon bicycles during the pandemic in Yogyakarta. In this study, the independent variables are price recognition, product quality, and brand image, and the dependent variable is purchasing decisions. The population in this study were polygon bicycle users in Yogyakarta, during the pandemic. The data collection method was carried out by distributing questionnaires to consumers who bought polygon bicycles during the pandemic in the city of Yogyakarta, with the number of samples in this study was 100 respondents. The data analysis method used in this research is multiple linear regression analysis. Based on data analysis, it can be concluded that price perception, product quality, and brand image have a significant effect on purchasing decisions. Keywords: Price Perception, Product Quality, Brand Image, and Purchase Decision
PENGARUH PERTUMBUHAN PENJUALAN, UKURAN PERUSAHAAN, DAN KEPEMILIKAN MANAJERIAL TERHADAP AGRESIVITAS PAJA
Authors: Sinus Maria Maristella Meolin , Prasasyaningsih Xaveria Indri
Published: August 2023

ABSTRAK Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji secara empiris pengaruh Pertumbuhan Penjualan, Ukuran Perusahaan, dan Kepemilikan Manajerial terhadap Agresivitas Pajak. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh perusahaan LQ 45 yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia tahun 2016-2020. Pengambilan sampel dalam penelitian ini menggunakan metode purposive sampling sehingga diperoleh 60 sampel. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa kepemilikan manajerial tidak berpengaruh terhadap agresivitas pajak, ukuran perusahaan tidak berpengaruh terhadap agresivitas pajak, sedangkan kepemilikan manajerial tidak berpengaruh terhadap agresivitas pajak. Kata Kunci: Pertumbuhan Penjualan, Ukuran Perusahaan, dan Kepemilikan Manajerial, dan Agresivitas Pajak ABSTRACTThis study aims to determine empirically the effect of Sales Growth, Firm Size, and Managerial Ownership on Tax Aggressiveness. The population in this study were all LQ 45 companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2016-2020. Sampling in this study was purposive sampling method so that 60 samples were obtained. The results of this study indicate that managerial ownership has no effect on tax aggressiveness, firm size has no effect on tax aggressiveness, while managerial ownership has no effect on tax aggressiveness. Keywords: Sales Growth, Company Size, Managerial Ownership, Tax Aggressiveness
TATA KELOLA KORPORAT DAN KINERJA KEUANGAN: PENGUJIAN MEDIASI STRUKTUR MODAL
Authors: Ravelino Raka
Published: August 2023

ABSTRACT This study examine the impact of corporate governance on firm performance with capital structure as a mediating variable in LQ 45 non-financial companies in 2009 - 2018 listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. I find that financial leverage is affected by corporate governance and it mediates the effect of corporate governance on firm performance. Keywords: Corporate governance, financial leverage, firm performance. ABSTRAK Penelitian ini menguji dampak tata kelola perusahaan pada kinerja perusahaan dengan struktur modal sebagai variabel mediasi pada perusahaan non-keuangan LQ 45 tahun 2009 - 2018 yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia. Peneliti menemukan bahwa leverage keuangan dipengaruhi oleh tata kelola perusahaan dan leverage keuangan memediasi pengaruh tata kelola perusahaan terhadap kinerja perusahaan. Kata kunci: Tata kelola, leverage, kinerja perusahaan.
PERAN KEPERCAYAAN PELANGGAN DALAM MEMEDIASI HUBUNGAN ANTARA KUALITAS WEBSITE DAN KUALITAS PELAYANAN TERHADAP MINAT BELI PELANGGAN PADA SITUS BELANJA ONLINE TOKOPEDIA.COM
Authors: Djaja Yudi
Published: August 2023

Abstrak Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji pengaruh kualitas website dan kualitas layanan terhadap minat beli yang dimediasi oleh kepercayaan pelanggan. Penelitian ini melibatkan sebanyak 200 orang konsumen Tokopedia.com.  Dengan menggunakan alat analisis SEM-PLS diperoleh hasil:  1) Semakin bagus kualitas website dan semakin baik kualitas layanan akan menyebabkan peningkatan kepercayaan pelanggan. 2) Peningkatan kualitas website, kualitas layanan, dan kepercayaan pelanggan akan meningkatkan  minat beli. 3) Dengan memasukkan kepercayaan pelanggan sebagai mediator akan meningkatkan pengaruh kualitas website dan kualitas layanan pada minat beli. Kata kunci: kualitas website, kualitas layanan, kepercayaan pelanggan, dan minat beli AbstractThis study aims to examine the effect of website quality and service quality on purchase intention mediated by customer trust. This research involved 200 Tokopedia.com consumers. By using the SEM-PLS analysis tool, the results are obtained: 1) The better the quality of the website and the better the quality of service, it will lead to an increase in customer trust. 2) Improving website quality, service quality, and customer trust will increase buying interest. 3) Entering customer trust as a mediator will increase the influence of website quality and service quality on purchase intention. Keywords: website quality, service quality, customer trust, and purchase intention.
FAKTOR KUALITAS PRODUK DAN EMOSIONAL TERHADAP KEPUASAN KONSUMEN PEMBELI MOTOR HONDA SCOOPY
Authors: Nugroho Basuki , Pramesti Hernawati
Published: August 2023

ABSTRAKTujuan penelitian ini menguji secara parsial dan simultan pengaruh faktor Kualitas produk, Pelayanan, Harga, dan Emosional terhadap kepuasan konsumen pembeli Motor Honda Scoopy di Kota Solo. Pemilihan sampel dalam penelitian ini dengan metode accidental sampling dan Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah uji validitas, uji reliabilitas, uji asumsi klasik, uji t, uji F dan uji koefisien determinasi.Faktor faktor Kualitas Produk, Pelayanan, Harga dan Emosional baik secara bersama-sama maupun individu mempunyai pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap kepuasan konsumen Honda Scoopy di Kota Solo. Dari keempat faktor tersebut Emotional mempunyai pengaruh yang dominan terhadap kepuasan konsumen Honda Scoopy di Kota Solo Kata Kunci: Kepuasan konsumen, kualitas produk, pelayanan, harga dan emosional  ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study is to partially and simultaneously examine the influence of product quality, service, price, and emotional factors on consumer satisfaction of Honda Scoopy motorcycle buyers in the city of Solo. The sample selection in this study was accidental sampling method and the data analysis techniques used were validity test, reliability test, classical assumption test, t test, F test and coefficient of determination test.Factors Product Quality, Service, Price and Emotional both together and individually have a significant influence on consumer satisfaction Honda Scoopy in the city of Solo. Of the four factors, Emotional has a dominant influence on consumer satisfaction for Honda Scoopy in Solo. Keywords: Consumer satisfaction, product quality, service, price and emotional