bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Three Somatic Mutations in the 3'UTR of RRAS2 and Their Clinical Implications in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Lacuna Marta , Hortal Alejandro M. , Cifuentes Claudia , Gonzalo Tania , Alcoceba Miguel , Bastos Miguel , Bustelo Xose R , González Marcos , Alarcón Balbino
Published: October 2023

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a hematologic malignancy characterized by progressive accumulation of a rare population of CD5+ B lymphocytes in peripheral blood, bone marrow and lymphoid tissues. CLL exhibits remarkable clinical heterogeneity, with some patients presenting with indolent disease and others progressing rapidly to aggressive CLL. The significant heterogeneity of CLL underscores the importance of identifying novel prognostic markers. Recently, the RAS-related gene RRAS2 has emerged as both a driver oncogene and a potential marker for CLL progression, with higher RRAS2 expression associated with poorer disease prognosis. Although missense somatic mutations in the coding sequence of RRAS2 have not been described in CLL, this study reports the frequent detection of three somatic mutations in the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) affecting positions +26, +53, and +180 downstream of the stop codon in the mRNA. An inverse relationship was observed between these three somatic mutations and RRAS2 mRNA expression, which correlated with lower blood lymphocytosis and better prognosis. These findings highlight the importance of RRAS2 overexpression in CLL development and prognosis and point to somatic mutations in its 3'UTR as novel mechanistic clues. Our results may contribute to the development of targeted therapeutic strategies and improved risk stratification for CLL patients.
The Antidepressant Activity Taurine Containing Derivative of 4-Phenylpyrrolidone-2 in a Model of Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress
Authors: Borozdenko Denis A , Gonchar Darya I. , Bogorodova Vlada I. , Tarasenko Dmitri V. , Kramarova Eugene P , Khovanova Svetlana S. , Golubev Yaroslav V. , Kiseleva Nina M. , Shmigol Tatiana Anatolievna , Ezdoglian Aiarpi A. , Sobyanin Konstantin A. , Negrebetsky Vadim V. , Baukov Yuri. I.
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the therapeutic potential of new compound, potassium 2-[2-(2-oxo-4-phenylpyrrolidin-1-yl) acetamido]ethanesulfonate (Compound I), in depression. Willner's chronic unpredictable mild stress model of depression in 48 male Wistar rats was used a depression model. The rats were randomized into four groups, including an intact group, a Compound I group, a Fluoxetine group, and a control group receiving saline. Behavioral tests, such as the Porsolt forced swim test, hole-board test, elevated plus maze test, and light-dark box, were used to assess the animals' conditions. Our results demonstrated that Compound I effectively reduced the immobilization time of rats in the forced swim test, increased orientation and exploratory behavior, and decreased the latency period of going into the dark compartment compared to the control group. Hippocampal and striatal serotonin concentrations were increased in the Compound I group, and the compound also reduced the level of corticosterone in the blood plasma of rats compared to intact animals. These results suggest that Compound I has a reliable antidepressant activity, comparable to that of the reference antidepressant Fluoxetine.
Oleic Acid Metabolism in Response to Glucose in C. elegans
Authors: Vieira Andre FC , Xatse Mark A , Murray Sofi Y , Olsen Carissa Perez
Published: October 2023

A key response to glucose stress is an increased production of unsaturated fatty acids to balance the increase of saturated fatty acids in the membrane. The C. elegans homolog of stearoyl-CoA desaturase, FAT-7, introduces the first double bond into saturated C18 fatty acids yielding oleic acid and is a critical regulatory point for surviving cold and glucose stress. Here, we incorporated 13C stable isotopes into the diet of nematodes and quantified the 13C-labelled fatty acid by GC-MS and HPLC/MS-MS to track the metabolic response to various concentrations of glucose. Previous work has analyzed membrane composition of C. elegans when responding to mild glucose stress and showed few alterations in overall fatty acid composition in the membrane. Here, in nematodes exposed to higher concentrations of glucose, a specific reduction of oleic acid and linoleic acid was observed. Using time courses and stable isotope tracing, the response of fatty acid me-tabolism to increasing levels of glucose stress has been characterized, revealing a funneling of monounsaturated fatty acids to preserve polyunsaturated fatty acid abundance. Taken together, higher levels of glucose unveil a specific reduction of oleic and linolenic acid in the metabolic re-wiring required to survive glucose stress.
Enhancing Cervical Cancer Prevention in South African Women: Primary HPV mRNA Screening with Different Genotype Combinations
Authors: Sørbye Sveinung Wergeland , Falang Bente Marie , Botha Hennie , Snyman Leon , Van Der Merwe Haynes , Visser Cathy , Richter Karin , Dreyer Greta
Published: October 2023

Background: Cervical cancer prevention in regions with limited access to screening and HPV vaccination necessitates innovative approaches. This study explored the potential of a test-and-treat strategy using mRNA HPV tests to impact cervical cancer prevention in a high-prevalence HIV population. Methods: A cervical screening study was conducted at three South African hospitals involving 710 under-screened, non-pregnant women (25 to 65 years) without known cervical diseases. Cytology, HPV testing, colposcopy, and biopsies were performed concurrently. Histopathologists determined final histological diagnoses based on biopsy and LLETZ histology. mRNA-HPV-genotyping for 3 (16, 18, 45) to 8 (16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 45, 52, 58) high-risk types was performed on leftover liquid-based cytology material. The preventive potential of the test-and-treat approach was estimated based on published data, reporting the causative HPV types in cervical cancer tissue from South African women. Treatment was provided as needed. Results: HPV positivity rate more than doubled from 3-type (15.2%; 95% CI: 12.6-17.8) to 8-type mRNA (31.5%; 95% CI: 28.8-34.9) combinations, significantly higher among HIV-positive women. CIN3+ prevalence among HIV-positive women (26.4%) was double that of HIV-negative women (12.9%) (p<0.01). The 6-type combination showed the best balance of sensitivity, specificity and treatment group size, and effectiveness to prevent cervical cancer. A 4-type combination (16, 18, 35, 45) could potentially prevent 77.6% (95% CI: 71.2-84.0) of cervical cancer burden by treating 20% and detecting 41.1% of CIN3 cases in the study group. Similarly, a 6-type combination (16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 45), treating 25% and including 62% of CIN3 cases, might prevent 85% of cervical cancer cases (95% CI: 79.6-90.6) among HIV-positive and negative women. Conclusion: Employing mRNA HPV tests within a test-and-treat approach holds huge promise for targeted cervical cancer prevention in under-screened populations. Testing for mRNA of the 6 highest-risk HPV types in this population and treating them all is projected to effectively prevent progression from CIN3 to invasive cervical cancer while reducing overtreatment in resource-constrained settings.
Acupoints, Channels and Organs
Authors: Teppone Mikhail
Published: October 2023

According to traditional Chinese medicine, Qi and Blood circulate through the human body via pathways known as 'channels and collaterals'. This process supports the normal function of internal organs and the whole body. Pathological conditions can be attributed to abnormal circulation of Qi and Blood, which results in excess or deficiency of organs and channels. Therapeutic methods used in traditional Chinese medicine restore the balance of Qi and Blood.Since acupuncture was introduced in Europe, discussion and debate about the nature of 'acupoints,' 'channels,' and 'collaterals' has continued. Currently, opposing views exist on this subject, ranging from complete denial of the existence of the channels to uncovering the previously unknown system of intra-tissue gaps and microscopic vessels. The author offers an original hypothesis that regards the theory of channels and collaterals as the description of the physiology and pathology of intercellular space and the theory of organs as a description of the physiology and pathology of cells.
Understanding the Role of Social Media Marketing and Technology Adoption Model in Shaping Customer Adoption of Digital Banking
Authors:   Universitas Indonesia, Basoeki Jonathan Bagus Pradhana , Agus Anna Amalyah
Published: October 2023

"Research Aims: The present research aims to investigate factors that significantly influence customers’ behavioural intention to use digital banking products. Following prior work on social media marketing and the influence of conglomerate group benefits, in addition to providing a comprehensive understanding, the research incorporates three established theories: the Theory of Planned Behaviour, the Technology Acceptance Model, and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology. Design/Methodology/Approach: The sample consists of current Allo Bank users. Data collection involved convenience sampling and a self-administered online questionnaire filled out by 262 respondents in Jakarta, Indonesia. The data analysis technique used was SEM PLS. Research Findings: This study’s findings show that each hypothesis has positive and significant results. Theoretical Contribution/Originality: This study explores the impact of conglomerate group benefits and the influence of social media marketing on consumers’ behavioural intention to use digital banking. Managerial Implications in the South East Asian Context: This study offers insights on how to enhance the behavioural intention to use digital banking. It suggests that subjective norms can have a substantial impact, so encouraging more individuals to utilise digital banking can increase customers’ willingness to adopt. Furthermore, increasing sales promotions while enhancing the perceived behavioural control of customers can also significantly influence adoption. Research Limitations & Implications: The research is constrained to digital banks belonging to conglomerates. This restriction overlooks various other factors that may impact the choice of utilising a digital banking product. Keywords: Social Media Marketing, Conglomerate Business Group Benefit, Behavioural Intention, Digital-only Bank, Theory of Planned Behaviour, Technology Acceptance Model"
Sustainability Disclosure in The Malaysian Construction Sector: The Effect of Community and Media Legitimacies
Authors:   Faculty of Accountancy, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Selangor, Kampus Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Majdi Suria , Saleh Norman Mohd ,   Faculty of Economics and Management, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Abdullah Maizatulakma , Alias Norazlan
Published: October 2023

"Research Aims: The objective of the study is to examine the effects of stakeholder pressure on sustainability disclosure (SD). The study includes the effect of community on SD when the company considers the media as one of the legitimate stakeholders. Design/Methodology/Approach: Stakeholder legitimacy is evaluated using SD via content analysis based on panel data samples from the construction and property sectors. Research Findings: It was found that legitimacy is an antecedent and has a positive relationship with SD. Furthermore, this relationship between community legitimacy and SD is stronger when mediated by media legitimacy. Theoretical Contribution/Originality: This study shows the effects of the legitimacy attribute on SD instead of the influence of stakeholders in general (regardless of the legitimacy concept) and the incremental value for companies to include the interest of the media in SD apart from the communities alone. Managerial Implications in the South East Asian Context: It guides managers in forming a comprehensive stakeholder engagement plan and budget to increase company value. This illustrates to the managers the motivation behind making disclosures about the media in the SD more so in this rapid social media where fake and misleading information threatens the public trust in Southeast Asia. Research Limitations & Implications: The study does not include power and urgency factors along with legitimacy. Keywords: Stakeholder Legitimacy, Stakeholder Salience Theory, Stakeholder Theory, Sustainability Disclosure, Construction, Endogeneity"
Strategic Orientation and Absorptive Capacity: The Mediating Role Of Functional Conflict
Authors:   Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Ismail Md Daud , Samsudin Zurina ,   Kolej Poly-Tech Mara, Othman Mohd Salekhan , Hamid Roshayati binti Abdul
Published: October 2023

"Research Aims: This study investigates the mediating role of functional conflict in explaining the effect of market orientation on the absorptive capacity of small and medium enterprises (SME) exporters in emerging markets. Design/Methodology/Approach: The data were successfully collected from 124 respondents and tested using structural equation modelling via Smart-PLS. Research Findings: The results support the notion that responsive market orientation and proactive market orientation positively influence absorptive capacity. In addition, functional conflicts serve as a quasi-mediator in the relationship between responsive market orientation and absorptive capacity. Theoretical Contribution/Originality: The export competitiveness of SMEs is the output of intangible assets of external knowledge. The ability to identify the relevant knowledge, disseminate that knowledge within the organisation and transform it into valuable products or services is pertinent. Nevertheless, firms vary in terms of the ability to develop absorptive capacity. Accordingly, previous research investigates the antecedent of absorptive capacity, but very few have looked at the role of market orientation and the conditions that influence the relationship. Managerial Implications in the South East Asian Context: Interaction with foreign importers affects SME knowledge development. Functional conflict requires open dialogues to develop meaningful outputs; as such, SMEs in South East Asia should aim to build good connections with their overseas importers. Research Limitations & Implications: The limitations of this study include the small sample size, the external condition of Covid-19 that was not included in this study and the cross-sectional approach of data collection which did not capture the dynamic nature of the firm’s capability. Keywords: Absorptive Capacity, Exporter-Importer Relationship, Functional Conflict, Market Orientation, Malaysia, SMEs"
Attitude Control of Rotary Steering Drilling Stabilized Platform Based on Improved Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient
Authors: Huo Aiqing , Zhang Kun , Zhang Shuhan
Published: October 2023

The rotary steerable drilling system is an advanced drilling technology, with stabilized platform toolface attitude control being a critical component. Due to a multitude of downhole interference factors, coupled with nonlinearities and uncertainties, challenges arise in model establishment and attitude control. Furthermore, considering that stabilized platform toolface attitude determines the drilling direction of the entire drill bit, the effectiveness of toolface attitude control will directly impact the precision and success of drilling tool guidance. In this paper, a mathematical model and a friction model of the stabilized platform are established, and an improved deep deterministic policy gradient (I_DDPG) attitude control method is proposed to address the friction nonlinearity problem existing in the rotary steering drilling stabilized platform. A prioritized experience replay based on temporal difference (TD) error and policy gradient is introduced to improve sample usage, and high similarity samples are pruned to prevent overfitting. Furthermore, SumTree structure is adopted to sort samples for reducing computational effort, and a double critic network is used to alleviate the overestimated value. Numerical simulation results illustrate that the stabilized platform attitude control system based on I_DDPG can achieve high control accuracy with both strong anti-interference capability and good robustness.
Translation, cross cultural adaptation and validation of the pelvic girdle questionnaire for the Italian population
Authors: Manzotti Andrea , Zanini Sonia , Colaceci Sofia , Giovannini Niccolò , Asnaghi Francesca , Pollini Carola , Montani Marco , Frontani Francesco , Nespoli Antonella , Fumagalli Simona , Galeoto Giovanni
Published: October 2023

Background. Pelvic Girdle Questionnaire (PGQ) is a questionnaire created to assess the pregnant women which suffer for pelvic girdle pain (PGP). Using specific tools to assess the pregnant women seems necessary, considering the high prevalence of PGP in this population. The aim of this study was to translate, adapt and evaluate the statistical properties of the PGQ.
Methods. PGQ was forward translated, back translated, culturally adapted, and administered to a sample of pregnant women. The statistical properties of the scale were analysed using the Cronbach alfa for reliability, the Pearson’s correlation for the concurrent validity and the responsiveness. Responsiveness was evaluated considering the t-student on a sample which undergo a treatment.
Results. PGQ showed an excellent reliability (total score alfa=0.944), a moderate correlation with ODI for functional subscale (r=0.584) and with NPRS for symptoms subscale (r=0.585). PGQ showed a responsiveness considering the intervention group with a statistically significant p for the subscales of the PGQ.
Conclusion. The adaptation process showed that PGQ is a valid tool that could be used to assess the specific population of the pregnant women. PGQ subscales seem to be able to detect disability and symptoms disorders in Italian population as it was shown on other languages adaptation.
Simultaneous Visualization of Microscopic Conductivity and Deformation in Conductive Elastomers
Authors: Liang Xiaobin , Liu Haonan , Fujinami So , Ito Makiko , Nakajima Ken
Published: October 2023

Conductive elastomers are promising for a wide range of applications in many fields due to their unique mechanical and electrical properties, and an understanding of the conductive mechanisms of such materials under deformation is crucial. However, revealing the microscopic conduction mechanism of conductive elastomers has been a challenge, mainly due to the lack of characterization means available to track the electrical properties of deformable materials at the nanoscale. In this study, we developed a new method that combines in situ deformation nanomechanical atomic force microscopy (AFM) and conductive AFM to successfully and simultaneously characterize the microscopic deformation and microscopic electrical conductivity of nanofiller composite conductive elastomers. With this approach, we visualized the conductive network structure of carbon black and carbon nanotube composite conductive elastomers at the nanoscale for the first time, tracked their microscopic response under different compressive strains, and revealed the correlation between microscopic and macroscopic electrical properties. This novel method is not limited to nanofiller composite conductive elastomers, the microscopic deformation and microscopic electrical conductivity of almost all composite conductive elastomers can be characterized by this method. This technique is important for understanding the conductive mechanism of conductive elastomers and improving the design of conductive elastomers.
Morphological risk factors for ACL ruptures in skeletally immature children and adolescents – a systematic review
Authors: Voskuilen Robin , Dietvorst Martijn , Steen Marieke van der , Janssen Rob
Published: October 2023

Background: The incidence ACL injuries in skeletally immature patients has drastically increased over the last decades. The role of morphology of the knee is still unknown in this population. The purpose of this study was to review the literature for the influence of knee morphology on the risk of ACL injury in skeletally immature patients.
Methods: Systematic review according to PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane were searched in December 2022 for studies reporting on knee morphology and ACL injury in skeletally immatures. Inclusion criteria were English or Dutch studies reporting primary ACL injuries associated with a morphological parameter in skeletally immature patients. Case control studies were included.
Results: After screening 1204 studies, a total of 16 studies were included of which parameters of 14 studies were included in the meta-analyses. These studies investigated 26 knee morphological parameters risk factors as potential risk factor for ACL injury in skeletally immatures. Meta-analyses identified a smaller notch width index (0.26 vs 0.27) steeper medial and lateral tibial slope (respectively 4.8 ° vs 3.6 ° and 4.3° vs 2.8°) and higher lateral/medial tibial slope ratio as risk factors for ACL injury in skeletally immature patients.
Conclusions: A small notch width index (NWI), steeper medial and lateral tibial slope and higher lateral/medial tibial slope ratio (LTS/MTS) were identified as a risk factors for ACL injuries. Future studies should identify the influence of growth on these risk factors and assess if these are risk factors for graft failures after ACL reconstruction.
Level of evidence: Level III
Training to act FAIR: A pre-post study on teaching FAIR guiding principles to (future) researchers in higher education.
Authors: Priess-Buchheit Julia , Hermeking Noémie , Möbius Thomas W. D.
Published: October 2023

Background
By supporting data management teams, promoting legal frameworks on the FAIR guiding principles, and embedding FAIR training, the scientific community tried to implement the FAIR guiding principles to foster open science in higher education since 2016. However, it still needs to be determined what strategies work and which do not in fostering open science. This article is the first step to closing this research gap by examining one strategy, the effectiveness of FAIR training in higher education.
Methods
With a pre-post test design, the study evaluates the effectiveness of FAIR training on students' scientific actions and justifications in line with FAIR guiding principles. The study also assesses the influence of university legal frameworks on students' inclination towards FAIR training. We analyze the students' response behavior with odds ratios and Pearson's -chi-square-test, with the null being that response behavior is independent of pre-and post-testing. On top of that, we observe with a volcano plot what learning factors students rate highest in FAIR training.
Results
Before FAIR training, 81.1% of students suggest scientific actions not in line with the FAIR guiding principles. However, after the training, there is a 3.75-fold increase in scientific actions that adhere to these principles. Interestingly, the training does not significantly impact how students justify FAIR actions. The study observes a positive correlation between the presence of university legal frameworks on FAIR guiding principles and students' inclination towards FAIR training. It explicates safe space, participation, motivation, usefulness, and satisfaction as the five highest-rated learning factors in FAIR training.
Conclusions
The study highlights the effectiveness of FAIR training. It underscores the training potential in driving the transition towards open science in higher education and shows how much university legal frameworks can push toward such training. Students rate FAIR training as very useful and satisfactory. Important learning factors in effective FAIR training seem to be creating a safe space, letting students contribute, and encouraging students to engage in the training. However, the study also reveals the need for further training improvement, particularly in enhancing students' ability to justify FAIR actions.
Trial registration
is not applicable as this study involves no clinical trial. The study involves an educational intervention to improve students' actions and justifications of the FAIR guiding principles in scientific research. Kiel University (Germany) collected the open data in this study between June 2019 and November 2022. The institutional research committee (Central Ethics Committee of the University of Kiel) approved all procedures performed in the data collection with the approval number ZEK-10/20.
A comparison of psychosocial interventions for children with cancer and their families in low- and middle-income versus resource-rich developing countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol.
Authors: Morsi Hisham , Akhtar Tooba , Balkaya Ozge , Miller Harriet Dean , Clapsaddle Jeanine , Clark Holly
Published: October 2023

Objectives: The provision of psychosocial care to address stressors accompanying a cancer diagnosis is instrumental in ensuring quality adjusted survival for children with cancer. Availability and delivery of these interventions is largely unknown in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and in resources rich developing countries.
This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to investigate and compare the published and unpublished reports of psychosocial interventions for children with cancer and their families in LMICs and resources rich developing countries.
Results: To be included in this review, studies must explore and report the impact of a psychosocial intervention on physical, mental, psychological and / or long-term health outcomes of children with cancer, their siblings, family members and carers. The impact must be reported or quantified according to a patient and family centered theoretical framework through the patient / family surveys or self-reports.
A comprehensive systematic search of relevant databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Medline, Cochrane, CINAHL and grey literature ProQuest databases) will be carried out using an exhaustive list of search terms to identify all related hits with no language or date restrictions. A pooled effect size will be quantified for the Meta-analysis.
This study will bridge a significant existing gap and guide relevant authorities.
Comparative Performance of Contact Plate Metod and Swab Method for Surface Microbial Contamination on Medical Fabrics
Authors: Chen Feng , Li Yaru , Wang Wanqiu , Li Juan , Wang Dong , Sun Xiaxia , Peng Yaping , Deng Jianjun
Published: October 2023

Background: The contact plate method is widely accepted and used in various fields where hygiene and contamination levels are crucial. Evidence regarding the applicability of the contact plate method for sampling fabric microbial contamination levels in real medical environments was limited.This study aimed to assess the applicability of the contact plate method for detecting microbial contamination on medical fabrics in a real healthcare environment, thereby providing a benchmark for fabric microbial sampling methods.
Methods: In a level three obstetrics ward of a hospital, twenty-four privacy curtains adjacent to patient beds were selected for this study. The contact plate and cotton swab method were used to collect microbial samples from the curtains on the 1st, 7th, 14th, and 28th days after they were hung. The total colony count on each curtain surface was calculated, and microbial identification was performed.
Results: After excluding the effects of time, room type, and curtain location on the detected microbial load, the linear mixed-effects model analysis showed that the contact plate method yielded lower colony counts compared to the cotton swab method (P<0.001). However, the contact plate method isolated more microbial species than the cotton swab method (P <0.001). The predominant microbial species isolated from both methods were gram-positive bacteria (78.22%), followed by fungi (14.05%). The top three detected bacteria were Staphylococcus epidermidis (24.59%), Micrococcus luteus (23.42%), and Staphylococcus hominis (21.08%). Furthermore, the microbial load on curtains in double-occupancy rooms was lower than those in triple-occupancy rooms (P = 0.021), and the microbial load on curtains near windows was lower than that near doors (P = 0.004).
Conclusion: The results showed that the contact plate sampling technique is more suitable for investigating hospital infection outbreaks and identifying specific pathogens on contaminated medical fabrics than the cotton swab method.
N-Iodopyridinium Cations: Kinetic Trapping as Sulfonate Complexes
Authors: Rissanen Kari , Puttreddy Rakesh , Kumar Parveen
Published: October 2023

The pursuit of N-iodopyridinium cation isolation and characterization remains a challenge. Here, we report seven N-iodopyridinium sulfonate complexes that were prepared and isolated at low temperatures and characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis. These inherently instable N-iodopyridinium cations are stabilized by an oxygen of sulfonate anions via I···O halogen bond. In these complexes, the large positive charge on iodine of the (pyridine)N+–I cation act as an electron acceptor and the sulfonate oxygen as the electron donor. These complexes are stable enough in the crystalline state, yet decompose rapidly under ambient conditions, also being unstable in solution. The (pyridine)N+–I bond lengths [2.140(3) - 2.197(2) Å] and the I···O halogen bonds [2.345(6) - 2.227(3) Å] are analogous to (imide)N–I···ˉO–N+(N-oxide) uncharged halogen-bonded complexes formed from N-haloimides and pyridine N-oxides, thus confirming the existence of elusive N-iodopyridinium cation.
Impact of Semaglutide on Osteoarthritis Risk in Obese Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Baser Onur , Isenman Lauren , Baser Sefika , Samayoa Gabriela
Published: October 2023

Background
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disorder. While the effect of obesity on OA is well documented, less is known about the effect of approved anti-obesity medications (AOM) such as semaglutide on OA.
Objective
To determine the impact of semaglutide on the risk of OA in obese patients in the United States.
Materials and Methods
We conducted a retrospective cohort study utilizing Kythera Medicare data from January 2020 to August 2022. Two cohorts of patients with obesity were identified: those taking semaglutide AOMs and those not taking any AOM. A randomly chosen 10% of identified patients who did not take AOM were included in the latter group. Patients in the AOM group had at least 1 pharmacy claim for Ozempic or Wegovy. The presence of OA was determined using diagnosis codes at outpatient and inpatient visits. Multivariate analysis was utilized to adjust for demographic variables and comorbidities.
Results
After controlling for demographic and clinical factors, the AOM cohort had a lower risk of OA than the non-AOM cohort (HR, 0.90; p < .0001).
Conclusions
The inverse effect of semaglutide usage on reduced risk of OA demonstrates that this AOM may be effective in preventing OA.
Non-specific effects of inactivated M. bovis oral and parenteral treatment in a rabbit scabies model
Authors: Casais Rosa , Iglesias Natalia , Sevilla Iker A , Garrido Joseba M , Balseiro Ana , Dominguez Mercedes , Juste Ramon A
Published: October 2023

Tuberculosis BCG vaccination induced non-specific protective effects in humans led to postulate the concept of trained immunity (TRAIM) as an innate type immune mechanism that triggered by a pathogen, protects against others. Killed vaccines have been considered not to be effective. However, field efficacy of a commercial vaccine against paratuberculosis, as well as of a recently developed M. bovis heat-inactivated vaccine (HIMB) prompted to test whether it could also induce TRAIM. To this, we used a sarcoptic mange rabbit model. Twenty four weaned rabbits were treated orally or subcutaneously with a suspension of either HIMB (10^7 UFC) or placebo. Eighty four days later the animals were challenged with approximately 5,000 S. scabiei mites on the left hind limb. Skin lesion extension was measured every two weeks until 92 days post-infection (dpi). Two animals were killed at 77 dpi because of extensive skin damage. The rest were euthanized and necropsied and the lesion area and the mite burden per squared cm were estimated. Specific humoral immune responses to S. scabiei and to M. bovis were investigated with the corresponding specific ELISA tests. Subcutaneously and orally HIMB vaccinated animals compared with placebo showed reduced lesion scores (up to 74% and 62%, respectively) and mite counts (-170% and 39%, respectively). This, together with a significant positive correlation (r = 0.6276, p = 0.0031) between tuberculosis-specific antibodies and mite count at 92 dpi supported the hypothesis of non-specific effects of killed mycobacterial vaccination. Further research is needed to better understand this mechanism to maximize cross protection.
Oral probiotics supplements participating in the ICIs included treatment for the advanced lung cancer: a prospective real-world study
Authors: Tong Liping , Wan Yuming , Shi Xiaoxiao , Liu Xianguo , Liu Zhe , Li Yuehua , Luo Deyun , Zhu Jiang , Zhang Yan
Published: October 2023

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of oral probiotic supplements in patients undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for the treatment of advanced lung cancer.
Methods: This prospective real-world study enrolled patients with advanced lung cancer who were receiving ICIs as part of their treatment. The patients were divided into two groups: Group OPS received oral probiotic supplements along with ICIs, while Group C did not. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). The secondary outcome measure was the objective response rate (ORR).
Results: A total of 253 patients were included in the study, with 71 patients in Group OPS and 182 patients in the control group (Group C). No significant differences were observed in the median PFS between the two groups for all patients. However, for small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients, the median PFS was significantly better in the Group OPS compared to the Group C (11.1 months vs 7.0 months, p=0.049). No significant differences were observed in median PFS for the non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cohort between the two groups, but a trend towards better median PFS in Group OPS was noticed (16.5 months vs. 12.3 months, p=0.56). The overall response rate (ORR) for the entire cohort was 58.0%.
Conclusion: Oral probiotics supplements in combination with ICIs included regimen may improve the outcome in patients with advanced SCLC. The above points should be proved by further study.
Research on damage evolution and fracture prediction in hydraulic continuous rotary bending low-stress cropping
Authors: Zhong Bin , Hou Shangbu , Ye Zhenhao , Wang Yuanlong , Yu Zhengyang
Published: October 2023

Due to the complexity of the near-net shape forming mechanism in the low-stress cropping(LSC) process, it is a challenge to accurately predict the process of fracture separation. A shear modified GTN model is proposed to study the fracture mechanism of hydraulic continuous rotary bending low-stress cropping(HCRB-LSC), and is applied to simulate the material damage evolution and predict the fracture behaviour of HCRB-LSC. Moreover, the rationality and validity of simulation results are verified by precision cropping experiments. Combined with the proposed evaluation method and evaluation index of the cross-section, the quality of cross-section obtained by cropping is quantitatively evaluated. It is found that this cropping method could increase the accuracy of the cross-section and the efficiency of cropping, and could efficiently achieve reasonable sectional accuracy and flatness at 8mm loading position. Precise prediction of near-net-shape forming damage evolution and fracture in HCRB-LSC provides an important basis for subsequent optimization of the precision cropping process.
Infrared medium and long wave fusion algorithm based on gray- scale deviation mapping
Authors: Zhao Ling , Zhou Kuan , Yu Song-lin
Published: October 2023

To address the challenges of combining medium and long wave dual-band infrared pseudo-color images that contain blurred fusion information and insignificant characterizations, this paper presents an all-informative color mapping algorithm. The algorithm provides practical value for color mapping of fused infrared images by analyzing the relationship between balanced color adjustment and preservation of source image data, ensuring that the pseudo-color fusion effect in infrared images highlights the difference in information across various bands while also complying with human visual perception. The algorithm is based on vectors of gray scale variations that are mapped to color in the HIS color space, with the final display in the RGB color space. Simulation and experimental results indicate the effectiveness of the algorithm. The algorithm has also been used in a real-time dual-band infrared color fusion system using FPGA hardware design for engineering purposes.
Improving real-time and remote monitoring system for diabetic subjects using flash continuous glucose measurement: accuracy and reliability
Authors: Goez-Mora Jhon E. , Córdoba Natalia Arbeláez , Balcazar-Morales Norman , Rivadeneira Pablo S.
Published: October 2023

Background: Flash glucose monitoring systems like the FreeStyle Libre (FSL) sensor have gained popularity for monitoring glucose levels in people with diabetes mellitus. This sensor can be paired with an off-label converted real-time continuous glucose monitor (c-rtCGM) plus an ad hoc computer/smartphone interface for remote real-time monitoring of diabetic subjects, allowing for trend analysis and alarm generation.
Objectives: This work evaluates the accuracy and agreement between the FSL sensor and the developed c-rtCGM system. As real-time monitoring is the main feature, the system's connectivity was assessed at five-minute intervals during the trials.
Methods: One week of glucose data was collected from 16 type 1 diabetic rats using the FSL sensor and the c-rtCGM. Baseline blood samples were taken the first day before inducing type 1 diabetes with streptozotocin. Once confirmed diabetic rats, FSL and c-rtCGM, were implanted, and to improve data matching between the two monitoring devices, the c-rtCGM was calibrated to the FSL glucometer readings. Accuracy, agreement, and connectivity were assessed by mean absolute relative difference (MARD), range averaging times, Parkes consensus error grid analysis (EGA), and Bland-Altman analysis.
Results: Compared to the FSL sensor, the c-rtCGM had an overall MARD of 9.07%, with 93.06% of results in zone A when calibration was carried out. When calibration frequency changed from every 50 hours to 1 hour, the overall MARD improved from 8.58% to 4.69%, respectively. The connectivity evaluation showed that 95% of data was successfully received every 5 minutes by the computer interface.
Conclusions and clinical importance: The results demonstrate the feasibility and reliability of real-time and remote subjects with diabetes monitoring using the developed c-rtCGM system. Performing calibrations relative to the FSL readings increases the accuracy of the data displayed at the interface.
Pulsed heating of the self-actuated cantilever: an exact solution investigation of non-axial temperature gradients
Authors: Becker Sid , Gutschmidt Stefanie , Boyd Bradley , Zhao Dan
Published: October 2023

Self-actuated bimorph cantilevers are implemented in a variety of micro-electro-mechanical systems. Their tip deflection relies on the unmatched coefficients of thermal expansion between layers. The thermal bimorph phenomenon is dependent on the temperature rise within the cantilever and while previous studies have investigated variations in the thermal profile along the cantilever length, these have usually neglected variations in the thermal profile along the cantilever thickness. The current study investigates the thermal distribution across the thickness of the cantilever. The exact closed form solution to the problem of heat conduction in the composite (layered) domain subjected to transient volumetric heating is developed using the appropriate Green’s function. This solution is applied to a 3-layer cantilever with an Aluminium heater, a Silicon Dioxide resistive layer, and a Silicon base layer. The Aluminum heater experiences volumetric heating at a rate of 0.2 mW/μm3 of 5μs duration at 100 μs intervals. Benchmark solutions of the temperature at select times and positions are provided. It is shown that there are non-negligible temperature gradients across the cantilever thickness during the heating and the first 5μs afterwards. These short-lived temperature differences are significant in magnitude and are positively biased with the unmatched thermal expansion coefficients between the layers. These temperature differences, which have previously been neglected, are important because they will act to enhance bending.
Effect of COVID-19 pandemic severity on one-year mortality in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients with and without diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yuan Qi , Li Xicong , Lu Lifei , Zha Yuanyi , Liu Bei , Guo Ruiwei
Published: October 2023

Background: The effect of COVID-19 pandemic severity on ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients with and without diabetic mellitus (DM) remains unknown. This study sought to examine how the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic affected mortality in these individuals.
Methods: We gathered clinical information and treatment results for STEMI patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) at the 920th Hospital in Yunnan, China, between January 2020 and December 2021. We divided the 2-year COVID-19 pandemic period into sporadic and outbreak period according to the monthly numbers of COVID-19 patients with new diagnoses. The differences in one-year all-cause mortality between COVID-19 sporadic and outbreak periods in STEMI patients with and without DM were compared using Cox-proportional hazards model.
Results: We enrolled 723 STEMI patients, including 156 with and 567 without DM. DM patients had less medications at discharge during the COVID-19 outbreak period than those in the sporadic period. According to multifactorial Cox-proportional hazards model, DM patients had higher one-year mortality risk during the COVID-19 outbreak period than those in the sporadic period (hazard ratio [HR] 4.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.14–15.31, P = 0.031). However, there was no difference in patients without DM (HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.46–1.56, P = 0.601).
Conclusions: One-year mortality in STEMI patients with DM increased with the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there was no difference in patients without DM.
Trial registration: The Medical Ethics Council of Kunming Medical University's 920th Hospital approved the research project, and all patients submitted written informed permission forms before participating in the study (2015067).
Anoikis-related gene signature predict the prognosis and immune infiltration characterization of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kang Xiu-He , Zhang Meng-Yu , Li Rui , Bai Hong-Yan , Li Tian-Tian , Zhang Fu-Shuai , Niu Zong-Ge , Qu Yi-Qing
Published: October 2023

Background: Anoikis is a mechanism utilized by organisms to defend against foreign cellular infiltration in various cancers. Anoikis-related genes (ARGs) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) are still poorly understood.
Methods:ARGs were extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Concurrently, enrichment analysis were conducted using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Cox regression analysis was employed to identify prognostic genes of significance, which were subsequently utilized to establish a predictive model and calculate risk scores for individual patients. To forecast the likelihood of patient survival at different time intervals, a nomogram was constructed. Additionally, the relationship between ARGs and immunogenomic features of LUAD was elucidated using Single-sample GSEA (ssGSEA), while the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database was utilized to verify the protein expression levels of the underlying ARGs. Ultimately, the association between LATS2 expression levels and TP53 mutation status，survival, clinical outcomes as well as the immune infiltration was explored.
Results: The results of functional enrichment analysis demonstrated a significant enrichment of differentially expressed ARGs in pathways associated with the cell cycle. Based on the findings from the cox regression analysis conducted in this study, a six-ARGs expression signature comprising TIMP1, SLC2A1, TRAF2, LDHA, LATS2, and HOXA10 was established. The consistency between the nomogram and actual observations was remarkably high, suggesting a high level of predictive accuracy. Noteworthy differences in immune-cell and immune-checkpoint markers were observed between the low-risk and high-risk cohorts. The hypothesis was validated by the HPA database, which confirmed that the molecules implicated in the risk model exhibit distinct expression patterns in tumors compared to normal tissues. Within the set of six analyzed ARGs, a significant association between LATS2 and immune infiltration was identified.
Conclusions:We discovered a 6 genes expression pattern related to anoikis. The risk model developed in this study may be useful in the prediction of patient survival.
A global analysis of the Rubus virome using public transcriptome data
Authors: Higuita Mónica , Pérez Alejandra , Gallo Yuliana , Gutiérrez Pablo A.
Published: October 2023

Viruses are the causal agent of some of the most limiting diseases in Rubus crops. In this regard, a detailed knowledge of the Rubus virome is essential for the successful implementation of mitigation strategies and to assess the risk of emergence of novel viral diseases. Fortunately, the widespread use of RNA sequencing to characterize diverse aspects about the biology of Rubus species can also be a valuable source of data on viruses associated with these hosts. Here, we present a meta-analysis of the Rubus virome based on the re-examination of public RNAseq data from nine Rubus species and 23 hybrid cultivars across the world. As a result, we identified 23 viruses and one viroid associated with the genus Rubus. Detected viruses are part of eleven families and 26 genera. We a provide evidence for existence of a second species in the genus Brambyvirus, and a novel member of the family Virgaviridae. Our data also revealed raspberry bushy dwarf virus (RBDV) to be the most prevalent and generalist Rubus virus across the world. In terms of number of species, the genus Ilarvirus and the family Closteroviridae were the most diverse taxonomic rank affecting Rubus. Network analysis revealed distinct Rubus viromes in different countries and analysis of coinfections revealed three main viral communities infecting these plant species across the world. We also provide information on virus variants from new locations across the world and data on potential emergent viruses from other plant hosts.