bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Practical Guidance for Biosimilars Approval--Strategy for the ROW
Authors: Niazi Sarfaraz K. , Al-Shaqha Waleed Mohammed , Mirza Zafar
Published: October 2022

Biological drugs are inaccessible to more than 80% of the world population due mainly to their high costs; this is a significant concern of the World Health Organization. Biosimilars are supposed to reduce the cost burden, but their approval process is complex, including expensive and irrelevant studies. While the Stringent Regulatory Authorities (SRAs) have adopted the guidance of the FDA or EMA, such adoptions are neither necessary nor practical for the rest of the world (ROW). We present a science-driven, rational approach to formulate regulatory guidelines that will enable faster biosimilars' entry into the ROW without compromising their safety and efficacy. The key recommendations include removing animal and safety efficacy testing, making analytical assessment more robust, and cGMP compliance assured through third-party audits. The ROW countries are also recommended to initiate a rapporteur system available in the EU, to overcome the biases and assure state-of-the-science evaluation as the common understanding of the critical quality attributes evolves. It is anticipated that stronger regional agencies like those in the MENA region, with the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, will help propel the idea faster across the globe.
q-RASAR Modeling of Cytotoxicity of TiO2-based Multi-component Nanomaterials
Authors: Banerjee Arkaprava , Kar Supratik , Gajewicz-Skretna Agnieszka , Roy Kunal
Published: October 2022

Read-Across Structure-Activity Relationship (RASAR) is an emerging cheminformatic approach that combines the usefulness of a QSAR model and similarity-based Read-Across predictions. In this work, we have generated a simple, interpretable, and transferable quantitative-RASAR (q-RASAR) model which can efficiently predict the cytotoxicity of TiO2-based multi-component nanomaterials. The data set involves 29 TiO2-based nanomaterials which contain specific amounts of noble metal precursors in the form of Ag, Au, Pd, and Pt. The data set was rationally divided into training and test sets and the Read-Across-based predictions for the test set were generated using the tool Read-Across-v4.1 available from https://sites.google.com/jadavpuruniversity.in/dtc-lab-software/home. The hyperparameters were optimized based on the training set data and using this optimized setting, the Read-Across-based predictions for the test set were obtained. The optimized hyperparameters and the similarity approach, which yields the best predictions, were used to calculate the similarity and error-based RASAR descriptors using the tool RASAR-Desc-Calc-v2.0 available from https://sites.google.com/jadavpuruniversity.in/dtc-lab-software/home. These RASAR descriptors were then clubbed with the physicochemical descriptors and were subjected to features selection using the tool Best Subset Selection v2.1 available from https://dtclab.webs.com/software-tools. The final set of selected descriptors was used to develop multiple linear regression based q-RASAR models, which were validated using stringent criteria as per the OECD guidelines. Finally, a random forest model was also developed with the selected descriptors. The final machine learning model can efficiently predict the cytotoxicity of TiO2-based multi-component nanomaterials superseding previously reported models in the prediction quality.
The Role of Calcium, 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Parathyroid Hormone in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Bidirectional Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Xie Ning , Xie Jiale , Wang Ziwei , Shu Qiuai , Shi Haitao , Wang Jinhai , Liu Na , Xu Feng , Wu Jian
Published: October 2022

Several observational studies have indicated the potential associations between calcium, vitamin D(Vit-D) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, the causal relationship deduced from these studies is subjected to residual confounding factors and reverse causation. Therefore, we aim to explore the bidirectional causal effects between serum calcium, Vit-D, PTH and IBS at the genetic level by a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the robustness. The estimates were presented as odds ratio (OR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The results of the inverse-variance-weighted method did not re-veal any causal relationship shared between genetically predisposed calcium (OR = 0.92, 95% CI: 0.80-1.06, P = 0.25) and Vit-D (OR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.83-1.19, P = 0.94) level and the risk of IBS. The bidirectional analysis demonstrated that genetic predisposition to IBS was associated with a de-creased level of PTH (beta: -0.19, 95%CI: -0.34 to -0.04, P = 0.01). In conclusion, the present study indicates no causal relationship between the serum calcium and Vit-D concentrations and the risk of IBS. The potential mechanisms by which IBS affects serum PTH need to be further investigated.
Breast Milk Feeding of Infants at Birth Among People With Confirmed SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Pregnancy: SET-NET, 5 States, March 29, 2020–December 31, 2020
Authors: Lewis Elizabeth L. , Smoots Ashley N. , Woodworth Kate R. , Olsen Emily O’Malley , Roth Nicole M. , Yazdy Mahsa , Shephard Hanna , Sizemore Lindsey , Wingate Heather , Dzimira Paula , Reynolds Bethany , Lush Mamie , Fuchs Erika L. , Ojo Kristen , Siebman Sam , Hall Aron J. , Azziz-Baumgartner Eduardo , Perrine Cria , Hsia Jason , Ellington Sascha , Tong Van T. , Gilboa Suzanne M.
Published: October 2022

Objectives. To describe prevalence of breast milk feeding among people with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection during pregnancy and examine associations between breast milk feeding, timing of maternal infection before delivery, and rooming-in status during delivery hospitalization.

Methods. We performed a retrospective cohort study using data from Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee of whether people with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy in 2020 initiated breast milk feeding at birth.

Results. Among 11 114 (weighted number) people with SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy, 86.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 82.4%, 87.6%) initiated breast milk feeding during birth hospitalization. People with infection within 14 days before delivery had significantly lower prevalence of breast milk feeding (adjusted prevalence ratio [APR] = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.83, 0.94) than did those with infection at least 14 days before delivery. When stratified by rooming-in status, the association between timing of infection and breast milk feeding remained only among infants who did not room in with their mother (APR = 0.77; 95% CI = 0.68, 0.88).

Conclusions. Pregnant and postpartum people with SARS-CoV-2 infection should have access to lactation support and be advised about the importance of breast milk feeding and how to safely feed their infants in the same room. (Am J Public Health. 2022;112(S8):S787–S796. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.307023 )
Barriers to Providing Lactation Services and Support to Families in Appalachia: A Mixed-Methods Study With Lactation Professionals and Supporters
Authors: Seiger Emily R. , Wasser Heather M. , Hutchinson Stephanie A. , Foster Grace , Sideek Ruwaydah , Martin Stephanie L.
Published: October 2022

Objectives. To understand the barriers and facilitators that lactation professionals and supporters (LPSs) in the Appalachian region of the United States experience when providing services and support to families.

Methods. We used a mixed-methods explanatory sequential design with a survey of LPSs in Appalachia (March‒July 2019), followed by semistructured interviews with LPSs (January‒April 2020). We summarized survey responses descriptively and analyzed interview transcripts thematically.

Results. The survey was completed by 89 LPSs in Appalachia. We conducted semistructured interviews with 20 LPSs. Survey participants most commonly identified challenges with other health care providers, hospital practices, and non‒medically indicated supplementation as barriers. Interview participants described challenges with clients’ families not supporting breastfeeding, difficulty reaching clients, limited numbers of LPSs, and lack of racial/ethnic diversity among LPSs. LPSs identified the need for training in lactation and substance use, mental health, and birth trauma, and supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, plus (LGBTQ+) families. LPSs described social media and telehealth as both facilitators and barriers. Social support from other LPSs was a facilitator.

Conclusions. LPSs in Appalachia face various challenges. Addressing these challenges has the potential to improve the lactation support and services families in Appalachia receive. (Am J Public Health. 2022;112(S8):S797–S806. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.307025 )
Facies architecture and paleogeography evolution of regressive wave-dominated shorelines transitioning into tide-dominated estuaries: Early Devonian Subbat Member, Jauf Formation, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Algheryafi Hasan , Viseras César , Polo Camilo , Al-Ramadan Khalid
Published: October 2022

The Paleozoic succession on the northern Arabian Plate was deposited during several regressive and transgressive events. The Early Devonian Subbat Member of the Jauf Formation comprises several smaller-scale intervals of the Paleozoic succession that were interpreted based on large-scale observations from outcrop and subsurface data. This study utilizes process-based sedimentology and investigates facies stacking, lateral continuity of sand bodies, and ichnofacies to interpret an open marine wave-dominated forced regressive system, that is followed by transgressive shorelines.

This study integrates a total of 417 meters of the Devonian stratigraphy from four outcrops and two shallow cores. This dataset records a third-order sequence which developed through an extensive intra-plate siliciclastic influx in between two carbonate units during the deposition of the Subbat Member. This study illustrates the evolution of a falling-stage systems tract that is characterized by shoreface sand bodies and an erosional-based delta front in the lower Subbat Member. These sediments overlie a regressive surface of marine erosion (RSME), extending for hundreds of kilometers and transitioning to an overall transgression in the upper parts of the Subbat Member.

This study interprets a total of seven facies associations (FAs): i) offshore, ii) wave-dominated delta, iii) shoreface to offshore transition, iv) fluvial channels, v) crevasse splays, vi) paleosol, and vii) estuarine facies associations. In the lower part of the Subbat Member, the wave-dominated delta and shoreface to offshore transitional FAs overlie the marine shelf strata of the offshore FA and develop a RSME. Fluvial channels and crevasse splays FAs are interpreted.

Unique assemblages of trace fossils, in terms of intensity and diversity, ranging from the Nereites Ichnofacies to Skolithos Ichnofacies, play a major role in the understanding of the overall water depth and depositional setting. Distinctive terrestrial Prototaxites fossils are present in sheet-like bodies and are interpreted as part of extensive crevasse splays that formed during major river flooding events. This study provides a unique integrated approach using ichnology, sedimentology, and sequence stratigraphy to better understand the spatial and temporal facies distribution of a forced regressive sequence and refine the paleogeography of northern Arabia during Early Devonian time.
Granitoids in the Bolshezemel Zone of the Pechora Basin Basement: Composition and U–Pb Age
Authors: Andreichev V.L. , Soboleva A.A. , Dovzhikova E.G. , Ronkin Yu.L. , Miller E.L. , Coble M.A.
Published: October 2022

—We present the U–Pb (secondary-ion mass spectrometry, SHRIMP-RG) zircon ages and geochemical characteristics of granitoids penetrated by two boreholes at a depth of about 4.5 km in the Bolshezemel zone–the northeasternmost block of the Pechora Basin basement. The age of zircon from granites from the 26-East Khar’yaga borehole is 558 ± 6 Ma. These granites are similar in composition and age to syncollisional granites of the Charkayu granite–granodiorite complex of the Pripechora fault (suture) zone (555–544 Ma). Dating of zircon from granodiorite from the 2-Veyak borehole yielded an age of 607 ± 6 Ma. Potassium-rich granodiorites and granosyenites from this borehole have geochemical features of within-plate granites and are correlated with granites (602–595 Ma) of the southeastern part of the Izhma crustal block of the basement, which is supposed to be a submerged part of the northeastern passive margin of the Baltica paleocontinent.
Inferior Survival Among Polycythemia Vera Patients Exhibiting Body Mass Index Reduction.
Authors: Jang Albert , Hamad Hussein , Teegarapavu Sravanti , Yellapragada Sarvari V. , Rivero Gustavo
Published: October 2022

The prognostic significance and the predictive factors for weight loss are not entirely elucidated for Polycythemia Vera (PV). In this single-center retrospective study, the prognostic value for Body Mass Index (BMI) changes was analyzed for patients diagnosed with PV between 2000–2016. Twenty-nine of 38 patients lost weight from diagnosis to end of follow-up. A statistically significant decrease in overall survival in patients who lost more than 10% of their BMI was detected. Older age was predictive of weight loss > 10% (p = 0.01). In patients with severe weight loss, higher frequencies of solid tumors were observed. In our study, BMI loss > 10% and leukocytosis were associated with inferior survival in Polycythemia Vera. Larger studies are warranted to verify further predictive factors that could be incorporated into a prognostic model to identify a high-risk subset.
Assessment of potential and actual sediment influx into a tropical estuary using RS and GIS approach
Authors: Karapurkar Diksha , Hegde Venkatraman
Published: October 2022

Sediment yield is the possible volume of sediments that a basin is capable of delivering to its watershed outlet. It is the function of its topography, and climate, including precipitation, land use land cover, soil distribution, and other factors associated with the rate of soil formation and its transportation. Modeling of sediment yield from a watershed enables computing quantitative estimates of sediments generated precisely at the micro watershed level. Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) is an efficient model in the assessment of annual soil loss from a basin using remotely sensed data in the Geographical Information System (GIS) platform due to its high reliability, easy adaptability, availability of data, especially for the mountainous watershed. In the present study, assessment of sediment yield from the Gangolli river basin of Karnataka located on the central west coast of India is attempted based on satellite data, processed in the GIS platform following the RUSLE model, and its significance is discussed in terms of the basin morphometry. The basin has a total catchment area of 1513.04km2, spread on the western face of the Western Ghat region of the South Kanara district. The basin has a relief of 1200 m. It experiences a tropical environment, hot humid climate, and ~ 355 cm of annual precipitation. The basin is divided into three physiographical subdivisions; the high relief mountainous region of the Western Ghats, the residual hilly region with low relief, and coastal plains. The total actual sediment yield has been estimated to be 6,32,976.38 tons/yr− 1 and the potential yield is 23,26,047.61 tons/yr− 1. This study will help to strategize inland soil conservation planning as well as estuarine management.
Detection of cracks and fine endodontic structures using 10 CBCT devices with 3 scanning protocols and 3 artefact conditions
Authors: Pinto Jáder Camilo , Vasconcelos Karla de Faria , Leite André Ferreira , Wanderley Victor Aquino , Pauwels Ruben , Oliveira Matheus L. , Jacobs Reinhilde , Tanomaru-Filho Mario
Published: October 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate CBCT exposure protocols and CBCT devices for the detection of cracks and fine endodontic structures using 3 conditions of metallic artifacts. An anthropomorphic phantom containing teeth with cracks, isthmus, narrow canal, and apical delta was scanned using ten CBCT devices. A reference industrial CT image was used to detect and measure all structures. Three conditions were created: 1. metal-free, 2. ‘endo’ and 3.‘implant’ with metallic objects placed next to those teeth. For each condition, three protocols were selected: medium field of view (FOV) standard resolution, small FOV standard, and high resolution. As results, only small FOV high-resolution metal-free images from two devices (A and H) were appropriate to visualize cracks. For fine structure identification, the best result was observed for small FOV high resolution. However, the visualization significantly worsened in the presence of a metallic artefacts. The ability of CBCT images for visualizing cracks is restricted to certain CBCT devices. Once metallic artefacts are present, crack detection becomes unlikely. Overall, small FOV high-resolution protocols may allow identification of fine endodontic structures as long as there are no high-dense objects in the region of interest.
Hernia Active Living Trial (HALT): A feasibility study of a physical activity intervention for people with a bowel stoma who have a parastomal hernia/bulge.
Authors: Munro Julie , Goodman Will , Oliphant Raymond , Beeken Rebecca , Taylor Claire , Russell Sarah , Hubbard Gill
Published: October 2022

Background: Parastomal bulging/hernia is a common complication associated with a stoma. Strengthening of the abdominal muscles via exercise may be a useful self-management strategy. The aim of this feasibility work was to address uncertainties around testing a Pilates-based exercise intervention for people with parastomal bulging.
Methods: An exercise intervention was developed and tested in a single-arm trial (n=17 recruited via social media) followed by a feasibility randomised controlled trial RCT (n=19 recruited from hospitals). Adults with an ileostomy or colostomy with a bulge or diagnosed hernia around their stoma were eligible. The intervention involved a booklet, videos and up to 12 online sessions with an exercise specialist. Feasibility outcomes included intervention acceptability, fidelity, adherence, and retention. Acceptability of self-report measures for quality of life, self-efficacy, and physical activity was assessed based on missing data within surveys pre and post intervention. Interviews(n=12) explored participants’ qualitative experiences of the intervention.
Results: 19/28 participants referred to the intervention completed the programme (67%), and received on average 8 sessions, lasting a mean of 48 minutes. Sixteen participants completed follow-up measures (44% retention), with low levels of missing data across the different measures, apart from body image and work/social function quality of life subscales (50% and 56% missing respectively). Themes from qualitative interviews related to the benefits of being involved, including behavioural and physical changes in addition to improved mental health. Identified barriers included time constraints and health issues.
Conclusions: The exercise intervention was feasible to deliver, acceptable to participants, and potentially helpful. Strategies to improve retention need to be included in a future study.
Trial registration: ISRCTN15207595; Registered 11/07/2019
ISRCTN - ISRCTN15207595: Hernia active living trial: HALT
Insights into the management of food waste in developing countries: with special reference to India
Authors: Sahoo Ansuman , Dwivedi Akanksha , Madheshiya Parvati , Kumar Umesh , Sharma Rajesh Kumar , Tiwari Supriya
Published: October 2022

Up to one-third of the food that is purposely grown for human sustenance is wasted and never consumed, with adverse consequences for the environment and socio-economic aspects. In India, managing food waste is a significant environmental concern. Food waste output is increasing in Indian cities and towns as a result of the country's urban expansion, modernization, and population growth. Poor management of food waste can have negative consequences for the environment and pose a risk to the public's health issues. This review focuses on the current challenges, management strategies, and future perspectives of food waste management in India. The efficient management of food waste involves a comprehensive study regarding the characterization of food waste and improved waste management methods. In addition, the government policies and rules for managing food waste that is in effect in India are covered in this review.
The role of high serum triglyceride levels on pancreatic necrosis development and related complications
Authors: Hidalgo Nils Jimmy , Pando Elizabeth , Alberti Piero , Mata Rodrigo , Fernandes Nair , Adell Montse , Villasante Sara , Blanco Laia , Balsells Joaquim , Charco Ramon
Published: October 2022

Background: The relevance of elevated serum triglyceride (TG) levels in the early stages of acute pancreatitis (AP) not induced by hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) remains unclear. Our study aims to determine the role of elevated serum TG levels at admission in developing pancreatic necrosis.
Methods: We analyzed the clinical data collected prospectively from patients with AP. According to TG levels measured in the first 24 hours after admission, we stratified patients into four groups: Normal TG (<150 mg/dL), Borderline-high TG (150-199 mg/dL), High TG (200-499 mg/dL) and Very high TG (≥500 mg/dL). We analyzed the association of TG levels and other risk factors with the development of pancreatic necrosis.
Results: A total of 211 patients were included. In the Normal TG group: 122, in Borderline-high TG group: 38, in High TG group: 44, and in Very high TG group: 7. Pancreatic necrosis developed in 29.5% of the patients in the Normal TG group, 26.3% in the Borderline-high TG group, 52.3% in the High TG group, and 85.7% in the Very high TG group. The trend analysis observed a significant association between higher TG levels and pancreatic necrosis (p=0.001). A multivariable analysis using logistic regression showed that elevated TG levels ≥200 mg/dL (High TG and Very high TG groups) were independently associated with pancreatic necrosis (OR: 3.27, 95% CI: -6.27, p<0.001).
Conclusions: An elevated TG level at admission ≥200 mg/dl is independently associated with the development of pancreatic necrosis. The incidence of pancreatic necrosis increases proportionally with the severity of HTG.
Automated Detection of Epileptic EEG Signals using Recurrence Plots based Feature Extraction with Transfer Learning
Authors: Goel Sachin , Agarwal Rajeev , Bharti R.P.
Published: October 2022

“Epilepsy” is the common neurological brain disorder that is affects the human being at any stage of life. About 1-2% of the world’s population affected by this major chronic disorder. Electroencephalogram (EEG) signal is the most important tool for the early detection of the epileptic seizure in several applications of epilepsy diagnosis. Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals can be categorized in Epileptic and Non epileptic as per epilepsy seizures. Recent research has carried out various ppossibilities of predicting & analyzing epileptic seizures by mainly using two approaches: Conventional methods using signal processing and Deep learning based methods.
Distinct spatiotemporal subtypes of amyloid deposition are associated with diverging disease profiles in cognitively normal and mild cognitive impairment individuals
Authors: Liu Bing , Sun Yuqing , Zhao Yuxin , Hu Ke , Wang Meng , Liu Yong
Published: October 2022

We aimed to investigate the relationship between spatiotemporal changes of amyloid deposition and Alzheimer's disease (AD) profiles in cognitively normal (CN) and those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Using a data-driven method and amyloid-PET data, we identified and validated two subtypes in two independent datasets (discovery dataset: N = 548, age = 72.4 ± 6.78, 49% female; validation dataset: N = 348, age = 74.9 ± 8.16, 47% female) from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative across a range of individuals who were cognitively normal or had mild cognitive impairment. The two subtypes showed distinct regional progression patterns and presented distinct genetic, clinical and biomarker characteristics. The cortex-priority subtype was more likely to show typical clinical syndromes of symptomatic AD and vice versa. Furthermore, the regional progression patterns were associated with clinical and biomarker profiles. In sum, our findings suggest that the spatiotemporal variants of amyloid depositions are in close association with disease trajectories; these findings may provide insight into the disease monitoring and enrollment of therapeutic trials in AD.
Epithelial necrotic cells provoke exacerbated inflammatory response in gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Sordi Mariane Beatriz , Panahipour Layla , Gruber Reinhard
Published: October 2022

Objectives: to study how cellular lysates could affect the expression of inflammatory cytokines of periodontal-related cells.
Materials and Methods: cell suspensions were submitted to different treatments: lysate 1 – no treatment; lysate 2 – sonication; and lysate 3 – freeze/thawing. All lysates were centrifuged, and the supernatants were used for experimentation. Cell viability assays, RT-qPCR of IL1, IL6 and IL8, IL6 immunoassay, and immunofluorescence of NF-kB were applied to verify the inflammatory crosstalk potential of damaged cells over healthy plated cells. Further, titanium discs and collagen membranes were treated with the cell lysates and checked for IL8 RT-qPCR expression.
Results: lysates obtained upon sonication or freeze/thawing of oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines provoked a robust increase in the expression of IL1, IL6, and IL8 by gingival fibroblasts, which was confirmed by immunoassays for IL6. Lysates obtained from the gingival fibroblasts failed to increase the expression of inflammatory cytokines in oral squamous cell carcinoma cells. Epithelial cell lysates caused the activation of the NF-kB signalling cascade in gingival fibroblasts as indicated by the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of p65, indicating inflammation. Finally, epithelial lysates could adhere to the titanium and collagen membrane surfaces and increase IL8 expression by gingival fibroblasts.
Conclusions: injured oral epithelial cells can release factors that incite gingival fibroblasts to become pro-inflammatory.
Clinical Relevance: injuries affecting the oral mucosa generate epithelial fragments that may reach the underlying connective tissue and provoke inflammation. These injuries are routinely caused by mastication, sonication for teeth cleaning, prostheses maladaptation, implant drilling, and teeth preparation.
Should we change the treatment plan in early hepatocellular carcinoma with chronic kidney disease?
Authors: Soong Rueyshyang , Chao Wu-Po , Chai Shion-Wei , Chiang Po-Hsing , Chou Ta-Chun , Chen Yi-Chan
Published: October 2022

Background
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been considered to be a poor prognostic factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, few studies have focused on early HCC and the impact of CKD on survival, which should be considered in curative treatment for early HCC.
Materials and Methods
Patients with BCLC stage 0/A were enrolled from 2009 to 2019. A total of 383 patients were divided into CKD stages 1, 2 and CKD stages 3, 4, and 5, based on estimated glomerular filtration rate. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) of different treatments were determined using the Kaplan–Meier method.
Results
The CKD1,2 group had a significantly better OS than the CKD3,4,5 group (72.6 months vs 56.7 months; p = 0.003). DFS was similar between the groups (62.2 months vs 63.8 months, p = 0.717). In the CKD1,2 group, the surgically treated (OP) group had significantly superior OS (65.0 months vs 80.0 months, p = 0.014) and DFS (50.9 months vs 70.2 months, p = 0.020) than the radiofrequency ablation-treated group. In the CKD3,4,5 group, the OP group showed a survival advantage in OS (70.6 months vs 49.2 months, p = 0.004), while DFS was similar between treatment groups (56.0 months vs 62.2 months, p = 0.097).
Conclusion
CKD should not be considered to be a poor prognostic factor in early HCC patients. However, liver resection provides a survival advantage in CKD patients with early HCC.
Butyl benzyl phthalate as a key component of phthalate ester in relation to cognitive impairment in NHANES elderly individuals and experimental mice
Authors: Yu Yongquan , Wang Yucheng , Dong Yu , Shu Shuge , Zhang Di , Xu Jiayi , Zhang Ying , Shi Wei , Wang Shou-Lin
Published: October 2022

Phthalates are a group of neurotoxicants with cognitive-disrupting potentials. Given the structural diversity of phthalates, the corresponding neurotoxicity is dramatically altered. To identify the potential contributions of different phthalates on the process of cognitive impairment, data of 836 elders from the NHANES 2011–2014 cycles were used. Survey-weighted logistic regression and principal component analysis-weighted quantile sum regression (PCA-WQSR) models were applied to estimate the independent and combined associations of 11 urinary phthalate metabolites with cognitive deficit [assessed by 4 tests: Immediate Recall (IR), Delayed Recall (DR), Animal Fluency (AF), and Digit Symbol Substitution test (DSST] and to identify the potential phthalate with high weight. Laboratory mice were further used to examine the effect of phthalates on cognitive function and to explore the potential mechanisms. In logistic regression models, MBzP was the only metabolite positively correlated with four tests, with ORs of 2.53 [quartile 3 (Q3)], 2.26 (Q3), 2.89 (Q4) and 2.45 (Q2), 2.82 (Q4) for IR, DR, AF and DSST respectively. In PCA-WQSR co-exposure models, low-molecular-weight (LMW) phthalates were the only PC positively linked to DSST deficit (OR: 1.93), which was further validated in WQSR analysis (WQS OR7 − phthalates: 1.56 and WQS OR8 − phthalates: 1.55); consistent with the results of logistic regression, MBzP was the dominant phthalate. In mice, butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), the parent phthalate of MBzP, dose-dependently reduced cognitive function and disrupted hippocampal neurons. Additionally, the hippocampal transcriptome analysis identified 431 differential expression genes, among which most were involved in inhibiting the neuroactive ligand‒receptor interaction pathway and activating the cytokine‒cytokine receptor interaction pathway. Our study indicates the critical role of BBP in the association of phthalates and cognitive deficits among elderly individuals, which might be speculated that BBP could disrupt hippocampal neurons, activate neuroinflammation and inhibit neuroactive receptors. Our findings provide new insight into the cognitive-disrupting potential of BBP.
Comparison of hemodynamics during induction of general anesthesia with remimazolam and target-controlled propofol in middle-aged and elderly patients: A single-center, randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Sekiguchi Ryo , Kinoshita Michiko , Kawanishi Ryosuke , Kakuta Nami , Sakai Yoko , Tanaka Katsuya
Published: October 2022

Background
Remimazolam confers a lower risk of hypotension than propofol. However, no studies have compared efficacy of remimazolam and propofol administered using target-controlled infusion (TCI). This study aimed to investigate hemodynamic effects of remimazolam and target-controlled propofol in middle-aged and elderly patients during the induction of anesthesia.
Methods
Forty adults aged 45–80 years with the American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status 1–2 were randomly assigned to remimazolam or propofol group (n = 20 each). Patients received either remimazolam (12 mg/kg/h) or propofol (3 µg/mL, TCI), along with remifentanil for inducing anesthesia. We recorded the blood pressure, heart rate (HR), and estimated continuous cardiac output (esCCO) using the pulse wave transit time. The primary outcome was the maximum change in mean arterial pressure (MAP) after induction. Secondary outcomes included changes in HR, cardiac output (CO), and stroke volume (SV).
Results
MAP tended to decrease after induction of anesthesia in both the groups, without significant differences between the groups (-41.1 [16.4] mmHg and − 42.8 [10.8] mmHg in remimazolam and propofol groups, respectively; mean difference: 1.7 [95% confidence interval: -8.2 to 4.9]; p = 0.613). Furthermore, HR, CO, and SV decreased after induction in both groups, without significant differences between the groups. Remimazolam group had significantly shorter time until loss of consciousness than propofol group (1.7 [0.7] min and 3.5 [1.7] min, respectively; p < 0.001). However, MAP, HR, CO, and SV were not significantly different between the groups despite adjusting time until loss of consciousness as a covariate. Remimazolam group tended to have a lower frequency of hypotension (MAP < 65 mmHg) than propofol group (7 [35%] and 11 [55%] cases, respectively; p = 0.341).
Conclusions
Hemodynamics were not significantly different between remimazolam and target-controlled propofol groups during induction of anesthesia. Thus, the choice, dose, and usage of anesthetics are important for hemodynamic stability while inducing anesthesia. Clinicians should monitor hypotension while inducing anesthesia with remimazolam as well as propofol.
Trial registration:
UMIN-CTR (UMIN000045612).
Unraveling the complex causality behind the Fe-N-C degradation in fuel cell
Authors: Bae Geunsu , Jin Song , Han Man Ho , Oh Hyung-Suk , Sougrati Moulay Tahar , Lee Kug-Seung , Seo Min Ho , Jaouen Frédéric , Choi Chang Hyuck
Published: October 2022

Beyond great advances in initial activity, Fe-N-C catalysts face the next challenge of stability issue in acidic medium that must be overcome to replace Pt in fuel cell cathode. However, the complex phenomena in fuel cells and consequential difficulty in understanding deactivation mechanisms of Fe-N-C cathodes impede solutions for prolonged stability. Here, we show time-resolved changes in active site density (SD) and turnover frequency (TOF) of Fe-N-C along with concurrent decrease in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) current in temperature/gas controllable gas-diffusion electrode (GDE) flow cell. In operando diagnosis of Fe leaching identifies a strong dependence of SD changes on operating parameters, and draws a lifetime-dependent stability diagram that reveals a shift in prime degradation mechanism during the operations. A proof-of-concept strategy with site-isolated Pt ions as a non-catalytic stabilizer, supported by theoretical calculation, demonstrates enhanced fuel cell stability with reduced Fe dissolution, offering new design principle for durable Fe-N-C catalysts.
Czech News Dataset for Semantic Textual Similarity
Authors: Sido Jakub , Seják Michal , Pražák Ondřej , Konopík Miloslav , Moravec Václav
Published: October 2022

This paper describes a novel dataset consisting of sentences with two different semantic similarity annotations; with and without surrounding context. The data originate from the journalistic domain in the Czech language. The final dataset contains 138,556 human annotations divided into train and test sets. In total, 485 journalism students participated in the creation process. To increase the reliability of the test set, we compute the final annotations as an average of 9 individual annotation scores. We evaluate the dataset quality by measuring inter and intra-annotator agreements. Besides agreement numbers, we provide detailed statistics of the collected dataset. We conclude our paper with a baseline experiment of building a system for predicting the semantic similarity of sentences. Due to the massive number of training annotations (116,956), the model significantly outperforms an average annotator (0.92 versus 0.86 of Pearson's correlation coefficient).
Quantitative Analysis of the Right Ventricle in Non-Gated Myocardial Perfusion SPECT Imaging
Authors: Shahamiri Negar , Yazdi Mehran , Entezarmahdi Seyed Mohammad , Faghihi Reza , Geramifar Parham , Haghighatafshar Mahdi
Published: October 2022

Background. Recent studies have shown that the right ventricular (RV) analysis in myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) SPECT can reveal some critical issues of heart disease. This study proposes a new algorithm for right ventricular 3D segmentation and quantification.
Methods. The proposed Quantitative Cardiac analysis in Nuclear Medicine imaging (QCard-NM) algorithm provides the RV myocardial surface estimation and create its contour using an iterative 3D model fitting method. The founded contour is then used for the RV quantitative analysis. The proposed method was assessed using various patient datasets and digital phantoms. First, the physician’s handmade contours were compared to the QCard-NM results using the Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC). Second, the QCard-NM's repeatability was evaluated using repeated MPI scans in a single day. Third, the ability of QCard-NM analysis to classify the RCA stenosis was assessed. Fourth, the bias of Calculated RV cavity volume with the algorithms mentioned above was analyzed using 31 digital phantoms.
Results. The average DSC value was 𝟎𝟎. 𝟖𝟖𝟖𝟖 ± 𝟎𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎 in the first dataset. In the second dataset, results imply that the Pearson correlation coefficient of the RV calculated cavity volume among two repeated scans was 0.87. The RV quantitative analysis using QCard-NM revealed an accuracy of 71.4% [p-value<0.05] detecting the RCA stenosis. In the phantom study, the mean absolute errors for calculated cavity volume were 22% and 38% for the QCard-NM and QPS, respectively.
Conclusion. We believe this preliminary study could lead to the development of a framework for improving the diagnosis of RCA abnormalities using RV quantitative analysis.
The impact of national sociodemographic variables on access to cardiac medicine and surgery in Haiti: Evidence from Haiti Cardiac Alliance
Authors: Bansal Esha , Patel Krishna , Lacossade Samantha , Gue Bennisoit , Acceme Kessy , Robinson Owen , Kwan Gene F , Wilentz James R
Published: October 2022

Background
In Haiti, cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, with congenital and rheumatic heart disease comprising a large portion of disease burden. However, domestic disparities in cardiac care access and their impact on clinical outcomes remain poorly understood. We analyzed population-level sociodemographic variables to predict cardiac care outcomes across the ten Haitian administrative departments.
Methods
This cross-sectional study combines data from a 2016-17 Haitian national health survey with aggregate outcomes from the Haiti Cardiac Alliance (HCA) database (n = 1817 de-identified patients). By univariate and multivariate regression, the proportion of HCA patients belonging to three clinical categories (active treatment, lost to follow-up, deceased preoperatively) was modeled in relation to six population-level survey variables selected a priori.
Results
In univariate analysis, higher departmental rates of childhood growth retardation were associated with a lower proportion of patients in active care (OR = 0.979 [0.969,0.989], p = 0.002) and a higher proportion of patients lost to follow-up (OR = 1.016 [1.006,1.026], p = 0.009). In multivariate analysis, the proportion of department patients in active care was inversely associated with qualified prenatal care (OR = 0.980 [0.971,0.989], p = 0.005), child growth retardation (OR = 0.977 [0.972,0.983]), p = 0.00019), and travel time to nearest healthcare facility in an emergency (OR = 0.997 [0.993,1.001], p = 0.16); it was directly associated with adult employment (OR = 1.006 [0.996,1.015], p = 0.28). Similar multivariate results were obtained for departmental rates of loss to follow-up and preoperative mortality.
Conclusions
Population data on multiple sociodemographic variables meaningfully predicted domestic disparities in HCA clinical outcomes by region. These findings may help to identify underserved areas in Haiti, for whom targeted resources may increase continuity of care and success of cardiac care interventions. This approach may also be generalizable to other forms of specialty care in Haiti and other low-income countries.
Knowledge and Practice of Nurses towards Non-Pharmacological Pain Management Methods and Associated Factors at West Arsi Zone Public Hospitals, Oromia, Ethiopia, 2021: A Cross-Sectional Institution Based Study
Authors: Abdella Jabir , Oltaye Zewdie , Fetene Diriba
Published: October 2022

Background
Non-pharmacological pain management methods have a vital role in the management of pain and helps to minimize risks related to drugs. This study is intended to assess knowledge and practice level of nurses towards non-pharmacological pain management methods and associated factors at west Arsi zone public hospitals, Oromia, Ethiopia, 2021.
Method
Institutional-based cross-sectional study design was conducted on 418 nurses at west Arsi zone public hospitals from April 15 to April 30, 2021. The study subjects were selected by simple random sampling technique. Data was collected using a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to identify associations. Odds ratios were calculated for related factors with a 95% confidence interval and Significant factor reported at P < 0.05 (CI).
Result
A total of 418 were included in the study with a response rate of 99.1%.This study shows that 66.7% of respondents had good knowledge and 53.8% of nurses had good practice about non-pharmacological pain management. Being having MSc educational status (AOR = 5.926(1.064–32.988)) and work experience of ≥ 11 years (AOR = 9.232(1.543–55.237) were significantly associated with knowledge. The study also shows that 30–39 age group (AOR = 2.276(1.344–3.855)), Being having BSc educational status (AOR = 2.554(1.465–4.452), marital status (AOR = 0.456(0.284–0.730)) and history of training (AOR = 1.976(1.233–3.168)) were significantly associated with the practice.
Conclusion
The study concluded that nurses working at west Arsi zone public hospitals had good knowledge and good practice. Educational background and work experience were associated with nurses’ knowledge. Age, Educational background, marital status, and history of training were associated with practice. The stake holders should focus on training, and continues nurses' professional development to improve knowledge and practice of non-pharmacological pain management.
Design and Analysis of Structure for Milling OCr13 Stainless Steel with Unequal Tooth Pitch Plunge Milling Tool
Authors: Li Junhua , Wang Yu , Gai Zhuxing , Jiang Lulu
Published: October 2022

Based on the theoretical analysis of the initial selection of tool parameters, the intrinsic model of stainless steel 0Cr13 material was constructed, and the simplified model was imported into Deform3D software, and after setting the corresponding parameters, the variation of milling force, milling temperature and tool wear of unequal pitch step plunge milling tool and common plunge milling tool were simulated. Then, according to the fuzzy matter-element theory, a fuzzy matter-element evaluation model was established for the plunge milling tool, and the values of milling force, acceleration and tool wear were measured by milling test, and the milling performance was compared between the unequal pitch step plunge milling tool and the common plunge milling tool by the fuzzy matter-element evaluation method. Milling force, acceleration and tool wear were reduced by 5%, 24% and 15%, respectively.
Verteporfin-induced proteotoxicity impairs cell homeostasis and survival in neuroblastoma subtypes independent of YAP/TAZ expression
Authors: Condurat Alexandra-Larisa , Aminzadeh-Gohari Sepideh , Malnar Mirjana , Thomas Ria , Menon Vishal , Kofler Barbara , Pruszak Jan
Published: October 2022

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a highly aggressive extracranial solid tumor in children. Due to its heterogeneity, NB remains a therapeutic challenge. Several oncogenic factors, including the Hippo effectors YAP/TAZ, are associated with NB tumorigenesis. Verteporfin (VPF) is an FDA-approved drug shown to directly inhibit YAP/TAZ activity. Our study aimed to investigate VPF’s potential as a therapeutic agent in NB. We show that VPF selectively and efficiently impairs the viability of YAP/ TAZ-expressing NB GI-ME-N and SK-N-AS cells, but not of normal fibroblasts. To investigate whether VPF-mediated NB cell killing is YAP-dependent, we tested VPF potency in CRISPR-mediated YAP/TAZ knock-out GI-ME-N cells, as well as YAP-negative BE(2)-M17 NB cells. Our data shows that VPF-mediated NB cell killing is not dependent on YAP expression. Moreover, we determined that the formation of high molecular weight (HMW) complexes is an early and shared VPF-induced cytotoxic mechanism in both YAP-positive and YAP-negative NB models. The accumulation of HMW complexes, involving STAT3, GM130 and COX IV proteins, impaired cell homeostasis and triggered cell stress and cell death mechanisms. Altogether, our study shows significant in vitro and in vivo VPF-induced suppression of NB growth, making VPF a potential therapeutic candidate against NB.
A cross-sectional study comparing emotional intelligence and perceived stress in groups of pharmacists delivering and not delivering a new community pharmacy service
Authors: Senćanski Dejan , Marinković Valentina , Tadić Ivana
Published: October 2022

Background:Community pharmacists (CPs) strongly contribute to public health and person-centered care. Emotional intelligence (EI) may help health professionals better engage with patients, handle stress in challenging situations, and presumably better introduce and implement new services. Such data in different CP populations do not exist.
Aim:The study's primary aim was to compare the EI and perceived stress (PS) levels in CPs providing a new service to patients with diabetes with their controls, CPs providing standard pharmaceutical care (PhC).
Method:Well-validated instruments were distributed electronically to all participating CPs. To compare the continuous EI and PS level data between the two study groups, the Independent Samples t-test, and Mann-Whitney U test was used. Pearson and Spearman’s correlations tested the associations between EI and PS and their respective sub-domains.
Results:A total of 86 CPs participated in the study. The study groups did not differ by any characteristics except gender, and their EI and PS levels did not differ. In both study groups, inverse correlations were found between PS and EI levels, with strong statistical significance in the control group.
Conclusion:Our study results suggest that the introduction of the EI agenda into the certification programs for new CP services should be considered. The results also suggest that higher EI may have protective effects against PS. Additional research with larger cohorts and a longitudinal design, including EI development intervention, would clarify the need to invest in CP-oriented EI programs more.