bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospective comparative study of quality of life in patients with bladder cancer undergoing cystectomy with ileal conduit or bladder preservation
Authors: Murthy Vedang , Kashid Sheetal R , Pal Mahendra , Vadassery Alvina , Maitre Priyamvada , Arora Amandeep , Singh Pallavi , Joshi Amit , Bakshi Ganesh , Prakash Gagan
Published: August 2024

Objective

To compare health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients undergoing radical cystectomy with ileal conduit (RC) or bladder preservation (BP) with (chemo)radiotherapy for bladder cancer.

Methods and analysis

Patients with bladder cancer, stage cT1–T4, cN0–N1, M0 with a minimum follow-up of 6 months from curative treatment (RC or BP) and without disease were eligible for inclusion. Two HRQOL instruments were administered: Bladder Cancer Index (BCI) for bladder cancer-specific HRQOL and European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30). The mean QOL scores across various domains and specific questions were compared between the two treatment groups using an independent t-test.

Results

Out of the 104 enrolled patients, 56 underwent RC and 48 opted for BP, with 95 (91.3%) being male. The median time from treatment completion to QOL assessment was 22 months (IQR 10–56). The median age for the entire cohort was 62 years (IQR 55–68), 65.5 years (IQR 55–71) in BP and 59.5 years (IQR 55–66) in RC. There was no significant difference in mean BCI urinary and bowel scores in function or bother subdomains between the two groups. Overall, BCI sexual scores were low in both groups but significantly better after BP (BPmean 56.9, RCmean 41.5, p=0.01). Mean scores for sexual function subdomain were BPmean 38.4 and RCmean 25 (p=0.07) and for sexual bother were BPmean 81 RCmean 62 (p=0.02). The EORTC QLQ-C30 outcomes did not show a significant difference in either group.

Conclusion

The BP group showed significantly better results in the sexual domain compared with the RC group. Both groups had good QOL in terms of urinary and bowel functions
Maternal anaemia and polycythaemia during pregnancy and risk of inappropriate birth weight for gestational age babies: a retrospective cohort study in the northern belt of Ghana
Authors: Adjei-Gyamfi Silas , Zakaria Mary Sakina , Asirifi Abigail , Issahaku Sulley , Ibrahim Mohammed Awal , Aryee Paul Armah
Published: August 2024

Background

Small for gestational age (SGA) and large for gestational age (LGA) births are topical issues due to their devastating effects on the life course and are also accountable for neonatal mortalities and long-term morbidities.

Objective

We tested the hypothesis that abnormal haemoglobin levels in each trimester of pregnancy will increase the risk of SGA and LGA deliveries in Northern Ghana.

Design

A retrospective cohort study was conducted from April to July 2020.

Settings and participants

422 postpartum mothers who had delivered in the last 6–8 weeks before their interview dates were recruited through a systematic random sampling technique from five primary and public health facilities in Northern Ghana.

Primary measures

Using the INTERGROWTH-21st standard, SGA and LGA births were obtained. Haemoglobin levels from antenatal records were analysed to determine their effect on SGA and LGA births by employing multinomial logistic regression after adjusting for sociodemographic and obstetric factors at a significance level of α=0.05.

Results

Prevalence of anaemia in the first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy was 63.5%, 71.3% and 45.3%, respectively, and that of polycythaemia in the corresponding trimesters of pregnancy was 5.9%, 3.6% and 1.7%. About 8.8% and 9.2% of the women delivered SGA and LGA babies, respectively. After adjusting for confounders, anaemic mothers in the third trimester of pregnancy had an increased risk of having SGA births (adjusted OR, aOR 5.56; 95% CI 1.65 to 48.1; p<0.001). Mothers with polycythaemia in the first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy were 93% (aOR 0.07; 95% CI 0.01 to 0.46; p=0.040), 85% (aOR 0.15; 95% CI 0.08 to 0.64; p<0.001) and 88% (aOR 0.12; 95% CI 0.07 to 0.15; p=0.001) protected from having SGA births, respectively. Interestingly, anaemia and polycythaemia across all trimesters of pregnancy were not statistically significant with LGA births.

Conclusion

Anaemia during pregnancy increased from the first to the second trimester and subsequently decreased in the third trimester while polycythaemia consistently decreased from the first to the third trimester. LGA babies were more predominant compared with SGA babies. While anaemia in the third trimester of pregnancy increased the risk of SGA births, polycythaemia across the trimesters offered significant protection. Healthcare providers and stakeholders should target pressing interventions for anaemia reduction throughout pregnancy, especially during the third trimester to achieve healthy birth outcomes.
Does regional implementation of a clinical pathway for older adult patients with pelvic fragility fractures after low-energy trauma improve patient outcomes (PELVIC): a multicentre, stepped-wedge, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Mennen Anna H M , Lommerse Marte , Hemke Robert , Willems Hanna C , Maas Mario , Bloemers Frank W , Ponsen Kees Jan , Van Embden Daphne
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Patients with pelvic fragility fractures suffer from high morbidity and mortality rates. Despite the high incidence, there is currently no regional or nationwide treatment protocol which results in a wide variety of clinical practices. Recently, there have been new insights into treatment strategies, such as early diagnosis and minimally invasive operative treatment. The aim of this study is to implement an evidence-based and experience-based treatment clinical pathway to improve outcomes in this fragile patient population.

Methods and analysis

This study will be a regional stepped-wedge cluster randomised controlled trial. All older adult patients (≥50 years old) who suffered a pelvic fragility fracture after low-energetic trauma are eligible for inclusion. The pathway aims to optimise the diagnostic process, to guide the decision-making process for further treatment (eg, operative or conservative), to structure the follow-up and to provide guidelines on pain management, weight-bearing and osteoporosis workup. The primary outcome is mobility, measured by the Parker Mobility Score. Secondary outcomes are mobility measured by the Elderly Mobility Scale, functional performance, quality of life, return to home rate, level of pain, type and dosage of analgesic medications, the number of falls after treatment, the number of (fracture-related) complications, 1-year and 2-year mortality. Every 6 weeks, a cluster will switch from current practice to the clinical pathway. The aim is a total of 393 inclusions, which provides an 80% statistical power for an improvement in mobility of 10%, measured by the Parker mobility score.

Ethics and dissemination

The Medical Research Ethics Committee of Academic Medical Center has exempted the PELVIC study from the Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act (WMO). Informed consent will be obtained using the opt-out method and research data will be stored in a database and handled confidentially. The final study report will be shared via publication without restrictions from funding parties and regardless of the outcome.

Trial registration number

NCT06054165.

Protocol version

V.1.0, 19 July 2022
Reproductive and sexual health literacy and associated factors among late-adolescent high school students in Arba Minch and Sawla towns, Southern Ethiopia, 2023: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kelecha Yirgalem Tola , Mehammud Bedria Mohammed , Goda Habtamu Samuel , Toma Temesgen Mohammed
Published: August 2024

Background

Adequate literacy in reproductive and sexual health is essential for adolescents to obtain, comprehend, evaluate and apply information necessary for making well-informed decisions, as low literacy leads to harmful decision-making, risk-taking and poorer health and self-management. These factors increase the magnitude and severity of problems related to sexuality and reproduction, including unintended pregnancy, HIV/sexually transmitted infections, unsafe abortion and death. However, information regarding the status and affecting factors of literacy in the reproductive and sexual health of adolescents is scarce.

Objective

To assess reproductive and sexual health literacy status and associated factors among late-adolescent high school students.

Design

A cross-sectional, institution-based study.

Setting

The study included eight secondary schools in Arba Minch town (Gamo Zone) and three in Sawla town (Gofa Zone) in the South Ethiopia Region.

Methods

The study was done between 20 May and 20 June 2023, among late adolescent high school students. Using multistage sampling, 577 students were recruited. Reproductive health literacy was assessed using the Health Literacy Measure for Adolescents tool. Data were loaded into EpiData-V.3.1 and analysed using SPSS-V.25. Binary logistic regression analyses were used to identify associated factors. Variables with a p value <0.25 in bivariable logistic regression were candidates for multivariable logistic regression. A Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit statistic was checked and satisfied. Statistical significance was indicated at a p value<0.05.

Result

The proportion of students with limited reproductive and sexual health literacy was 69.6% (CI 65.3% to 72.8%). The limited literacy status was significantly associated with school type (public school AOR 0.28 (0.17 to 0.46)), mother’s occupation (merchant AOR 0.42 (0.23 to 0.76)), family monthly income (income 10 000–20 000 birr AOR 0.45 (0.22 to 0.95)), having regular physical exercise >30 min (more than once per week, AOR 0.44 (0.23 to 0.84)), and knowledge about condoms (poor AOR 2.23 (1.38 to 3.64)).

Conclusion

A notable segment of adolescents exhibited limited reproductive and sexual health literacy. The result emphasises the necessity of all relevant parties to work diligently to guarantee that school adolescents can easily obtain, comprehend, evaluate and use reproductive and sexuality-related information.
Causes of sudden unexpected death in infants with and without pre-existing conditions: a retrospective autopsy study
Authors: Cattermole Rosalie , Hutchinson John Ciaran , Palm Liina , Sebire Neil J
Published: August 2024

Objective

We investigated sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI) autopsy data from 1996 to 2015 inclusive, comparing findings from infants with and without pre-existing medical conditions.

Design

Large, retrospective single-centre autopsy series.

Setting

Tertiary paediatric hospital, London, UK.

Methods

Non-identifiable autopsy findings were extracted from an existing research database for infants older than 7 days up to and including 365 days old who died suddenly and unexpectedly (SUDI; n=1739). Cases were classified into SUDI with pre-existing condition (SUDI-PEC) (n=233) versus SUDI without PEC (SUDI non-PEC) (n=929), where PEC indicates a potentially life-limiting pre-existing medical condition. Findings were compared between groups including evaluation of type of PEC and whether the deaths were medically explained (infectious or non-infectious) or apparently unexplained.

Results

Median age of death was greater in SUDI-PEC compared with SUDI non-PEC (129 days vs 67 days) with similar male to female ratio (1.4:1). A greater proportion of deaths were classified as medically explained in SUDI-PEC versus SUDI non-PEC (73% vs 30%). Of the explained SUDI, a greater proportion of deaths were non-infectious for SUDI-PEC than SUDI non-PEC (66% vs 32%). SUDI-PEC (infectious) infants were most likely to have respiratory infection (64%), with susceptible PEC, including neurological, prematurity with a PEC, and syndromes or other anomalies.

Conclusion

SUDI-PEC deaths occur later in infancy and are likely to have their death attributed to their PEC, even in the absence of specific positive autopsy findings. Future research should aim to further define this cohort to help inform SUDI postmortem guidelines, paediatric clinical practice to reduce infant death, and to reduce the risk of overattribution of deaths in the context of a PEC.
New one-parameter models of dynamical particles in spatially flat FLRW space-times
Authors: Cotăescu Ion I.
Published: August 2024

New one-parameter models of non-rotating dynamical particles are derived as isotropic solutions of Einstein’s equations with perfect fluid in space-times with FLRW asymptotic behaviour, thus generalizing the models recently proposed by Cotăescu (Eur. Phys. J. C 82:86, 2022). These particles are produced by central singularities of the fluid density but without changing the pressure of the asymptotic FLRW space-times. The principal features of these models are investigated using a brief graphical analysis to elucidate the role of the new free parameter. The conclusion is that this gives rise to families of models which behave as non-rotating black holes in the physical space domain bordered by the black hole and cosmological horizons.
Variance-based uncertainty relations and entanglement amplification for particles constrained on a torus
Authors: Bashir Asma , Javed Hafiz Muhammad Asif , Wasay Muhammad Abdul , Mahr Muhammad Shabir , Iqbal Muhammad Zafar
Published: August 2024

We formulate the variance-based uncertainty relations (URs) via the Robertson’s inequality, for a 2-particle entangled system constrained on a torus and subject to a stationary magnetic field $$\mathcal {\vec {B}}$$

B
→

. We explore the system’s parameter space and show that these new URs have field-tunable uncertainty bounds. Our analysis reveals that $$\mathcal {\vec {A}}$$

A
→

(vector potential) induces a phase shift in the state, due to the Aharonov–Bohm effect, leading to a perturbed system dynamics which results in asymmetric product of variance ($$\mathcal {POV}$$
POV
). Additionally, we give the critical range of $$\mathcal {\vec {A}}$$

A
→

and $$\mathcal {\vec {B}}$$

B
→

where the system acts as an entanglement amplifier; this amplification is also discussed under various geometric parameters. The possibility of reducing the $$\mathcal {POV}$$
POV
of the conjugate pair [q, p] below the known benchmark value by the Generalized Uncertainty Relation (GUR) is also demonstrated. Finally, we check the susceptibility of state coherence to $$\mathcal {\vec {B}}$$

B
→

by saturating the angular momentum uncertainty relation and identify the critical coherence value $${\mathcal {B}}_c$$

B
c

such that when $${\mathcal {B}}\ne {\mathcal {B}}_c$$

B
≠

B
c

, the state decoheres.
Exploring Blind and Low-Vision Youth’s Digital Access Needs in School: Toward Accessible Instructional Technologies
Authors: Shaheen Natalie L.
Published: August 2024

Blind and low-vision (BLV) youth have been excluded from technology-mediated learning in school for two decades due to the systemic inaccessibility of K-12 instructional technologies. Accessibility guidelines that address BLV youth’s needs would help schools address this systemic inequity. But such guidelines do not yet exist nor does the robust knowledgebase required to write them. Herein, I report three key findings from a mixed methods user study of BLV youth’s lived experiences learning with access technologies (AT) and instructional technologies in US schools. First, these youth participants are using a broader range of AT than youth in previous studies. Second, the youth in this study frequently developed their AT literacy outside of school, and most did not begin developing AT literacy in earnest until they were teens. Third, the youth defined accessible instructional technologies as those that are (1) easy to learn to use and (2) easy to use to learn and they used an inquiry process to evaluate accessibility. Building on the findings, I offer six preliminary design guidelines for accessible instructional technologies. Finally, I urge other scholars to study BLV youth’s digital access needs so that standards setting bodies eventually have sufficient data to write youth accessibility guidelines.
LLexus: an AI agent system for incident management
Authors: Las-Casas Pedro , Kumbhare Alok Gautum , Fonseca Rodrigo , Agarwal Sharad
Published: August 2024

When operating a software service on a cloud, the complexity of keeping multiple distributed components responsive is a significant challenge for engineering teams. Engineers frequently rely on Troubleshooting Guides (TSGs) to navigate how to mitigate performance or outage incidents. However, the effectiveness of TSGs is often hindered by their length, implicit reliance on tribal knowledge, and the variable quality of their content. This paper introduces LLexus, an agent-based AI system to automate the execution of TSGs.
An Evaluation of DAOS for Simulation and Deep Learning HPCWorkloads
Authors: Logan Luke , Lofstead Jay , Sun Xian-He , Kougkas Anthony
Published: August 2024

Traditionally, distributed storage systems have relied upon the interfaces provided by OS kernels to interact with storage hardware. However, much research has shown that OSes impose serious overheads on every I/O operation, especially on high-performance storage and networking hardware (e.g., PMEM and 200GBe). Thus, distributed storage stacks are being re-designed to take advantage of this modern hardware by utilizing new hardware interfaces which bypass the kernel entirely. However, the impact of these optimizations have not been well-studied for real HPC workloads on real hardware. In this work, we provide a comprehensive evaluation of DAOS: a state-of-the-art distributed storage system which re-architects the storage stack from scratch for modern hardware.We compare DAOS against traditional storage stacks and demonstrate that by utilizing optimal interfaces to hardware, performance improvements of up to 6x can be observed in real scientific applications.
From Petri Dishes to Patients to Populations: Scales and Evolutionary Mechanisms Driving Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: Souque Célia , González Ojeda Indra , Baym Michael
Published: August 2024

Tackling the challenge created by antibiotic resistance requires understanding the mechanisms behind its evolution. Like any evolutionary process, the evolution of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is driven by the underlying variation in a bacterial population and the selective pressures acting upon it. Importantly, both selection and variation will depend on the scale at which resistance evolution is considered (from evolution within a single patient to the host population level). While laboratory experiments have generated fundamental insights into the mechanisms underlying antibiotic resistance evolution, the technological advances in whole genome sequencing now allow us to probe antibiotic resistance evolution beyond the lab and directly record it in individual patients and host populations. Here we review the evolutionary forces driving antibiotic resistance at each of these scales, highlight gaps in our current understanding of AMR evolution, and discuss future steps toward evolution-guided interventions.
Electronic Monitoring at Work
Authors: König Cornelius J.
Published: August 2024

Employers’ electronic monitoring of employees’ actions, also known as employee surveillance, has become a common phenomenon in contemporary workplaces, enabled by advancements in technology. This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge across multiple research streams regarding electronic monitoring. While the overall impact of monitoring on performance appears neutral, a small positive correlation can be observed with strain, and a small negative correlation can be observed with job attitudes. These modest effect sizes may stem from paradoxical effects that counterbalance each other, a phenomenon known as suppression. Moreover, these relationships are likely contingent upon various moderating factors, including individual traits, job characteristics, and national differences, particularly in legal regulations. To foster a more nuanced understanding of electronic monitoring's implications, future research should prioritize methodological rigor, embrace open science practices, and use validated measures and longitudinal designs. Additionally, adopting a process-oriented approach delineating the phases of decision-making, preparation, start, continuation, and discontinuation of electronic monitoring implementation could offer valuable insights.
Clitocine enhances the drug sensitivity of colon cancer cells by promoting FBXW7-mediated MCL-1 degradation via inhibiting the A2B/cAMP/ERK axis
Authors: Ruan Feng , Ruan Yanyun , Gu Huamin , Sun Jianguo , Chen Qi
Published: August 2024

Our study found that clitocine enhances the drug sensitivity of colon cancer cells by promoting FBXW7-mediated MCL-1 degradation via inhibiting the A2B/cAMP/ERK axis.
Temporal dynamics of neocortical development in organotypic mouse brain cultures: a comprehensive analysis
Authors: Bak Aniella , Schmied Katharina , Jakob Morten L. , Bedogni Francesco , Squire Olivia A. , Gittel Birgit , Jesinghausen Maik , Schünemann Kerstin D. , Weber Yvonne , Kampa Björn , van Loo Karen M. J. , Koch Henner
Published: August 2024

The development of the mouse neocortex in vitro mimics the in vivo development. Mouse brain cultures can serve as a model system for cortical development for the first 2 wk in vitro and as a model system for the adult cortex from 2 to 4 wk in vitro. Mouse organotypic brain slice cultures develop high-frequency network oscillations at γ frequency after 2 wk in vitro. Mouse brain cultures exhibit increased heterogeneity and variability after 4 wk in culture.
Responses to brief perturbations of stance: EMG, midline cortical, and subcortical changes
Authors: Govender Sendhil , Hochstrasser Daniel , Todd Neil P. M. , Keller Peter E. , Colebatch James G.
Published: August 2024

We studied the effects of a brief tap to the sternum in human subjects, known to evoke short-latency postural responses. Using an extended EEG recording system, we showed early evoked responses over the midline cerebellum, including the P23 potential, which correlated with the EMG responses in tibialis anterior, consistent with a cerebellar role in postural reflexes. The stimulus also evoked later EEG responses, including the perturbation potential.
Integrative Bioinformatics Analysis Unravel the Association between Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Cellular Apoptosis through Immune Infiltration
Authors: Chen Pandi , Ye Gengfan , Li Jia , Feng Kuan , Zhu Guangyao , Chen Maosong , Chen Wei
Published: August 2024

Background. Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH, IH) is a stroke syndrome characterized by high mortality and disability rates. However, the apoptotic mechanisms underlying ICH remain incompletely understood. We employed bioinformatics methods to identify key apoptotic genes associated with ICH, thereby offering potential therapeutic targets and contributing to a deeper understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of apoptosis in ICH. Materials and Methods. We retrieved microarray data of ICH patients from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and intersected it with apoptotic genes, filtering out apoptosis‐related differentially expressed genes (ARDEGs). Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were conducted, and a logic regression‐based diagnostic model for ICH was constructed. Key genes were identified through least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression after model validation. Subsequently, mRNA‐transcription factor (mRNA‐TF), mRNA–microRNA (mRNA–miRNA), mRNA‐RNA‐binding protein (mRNA‐RBP), and mRNA‐drug regulatory networks were established, followed by immune infiltration analysis. Results. We identified 29 ARDEGs related to ICH, primarily participating in biological processes such as the extrinsic apoptotic signaling pathway and neuroinflammatory response. The ICH model confirmed PPP1R15A, IL1R1, and TYROBP as key genes with diagnostic and therapeutic value. Thirteen immune cell types showed a correlation with ICH; notably, activated dendritic cells and CD56dim natural killer cells exhibited significant correlations, and key genes were positively correlated with all 13 immune cell types. The regulatory networks (mRNA‐TF, mRNA–miRNA, mRNA‐RBP, and mRNA‐drug) provided insights into the apoptotic gene regulation mechanisms and potential drugs in ICH. Conclusion. Through bioinformatics analysis, we identified PPP1R15A, IL1R1, and TYROBP as crucial genes in the occurrence and progression of ICH, with the potential involvement of Activated dendritic cells and CD56dim natural killer cells in these processes.
Characterisation of High‐Density Polyethylene (DiaPow HDPE HX R) Powder for Use in Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Mwania Fredrick M. , van der Walt Jacobus , Wu Lorinda , Koen Wayne , Maringa Maina
Published: August 2024

High‐density polyethylene (HDPE) is largely processed using conventional manufacturing techniques. However, there is a need to investigate its processability when fabricated using additive manufacturing (AM) in an effort to use this polymer for high‐end applications, such as the fabrication of human implants. In this regard, the current study investigated the intrinsic and extrinsic properties of HDPE powders (DiaPow HDPE HX R) from Diamond Plastics GmbH, to determine its feasibility of use in powder bed fusion (PBF). Powder characterisation was undertaken using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), melt flow index (MFI) testing, tapped density testing, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and hot‐stage microscopy. The analysis revealed that this high‐density polyethylene powder is suitable for processing using PBF based on the particle size distribution (PSD) (65–92 μm), flowability (Hausner ratio = 1.22 ± 0.02), melting point range (125.7–135.2 degrees Celsius), enthalpy of melting (170.51 J/g), and thermal stability (the materials starts to degrade at 350.0 degrees Celsius and completely degrades at 500.0 degrees Celsius). It also showed good coalescence behaviour. However, the narrow sintering window (7.9 degrees Celsius) of the material indicates possible challenges of shrinkage and curling during printing. The material was also found to have poor absorptive properties of infrared radiation at 10.6 μm, which might make sintering using CO2 lasers challenging.
Discovery and Validation of Potential Serum Biomarkers for Heart Failure by Untargeted Metabolomics
Authors: Zhou Guisheng , Zhang Junzhi , Guo Hongli , Hu Xiaochao , Wang Yingzhuo , Shi Kunqun , Liu Tongtong , Yin Shengyan , Liu Huanhuan , Liu Chunling , Liu Shijia
Published: August 2024

Detection of biomarkers was extremely important for the early diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy optimization of diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in serum metabolites between patients with heart failure (HF) and healthy control (HC) and to diagnose HF qualitatively. In this study, serum samples from 83 patients with HF and 35 HCs were used as the research subjects for untargeted metabolomic analysis using ultraperformance liquid chromatography combined with quadrupole‐time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC‐QTOF/MS) technology. Potential biomarkers were screened and validated using the orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA), random forest (RF), binary logistic regression (BLR), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The results indicated that a total of 43 metabolites were considered as differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs). Among these DEMs, glycodeoxycholate was identified as a specific biomarker of HF. A ROC curve analysis for HC versus HF discrimination showed an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.9853 (95% CI: 0.9859–1.0000), a sensitivity of 95%, and a specificity of 100%. Hence, glycodeoxycholate might serve as a potential biomarker for HF. Furthermore, the amino acid metabolism was screened as the most significantly altered pathway in patients with HF. By identifying serum biomarkers and analyzing metabolic pathways, our study provided opportunities to enhance the understanding of the pathogenesis and early diagnosis of HF.
Shock Wave Therapy Alleviates Hypoxia/Reoxygenation‐Induced Cardiomyocyte Injury by Inhibiting Both Apoptosis and Ferroptosis
Authors: Wang Jiannan , Jia Na , Zhu Kaiyi , Xu Kun , Yan Mingjing , Lan Ming , Liu Junmeng , Liu Bing , Shen Tao , He Qing
Published: August 2024

Shock wave therapy (SWT) is a new alternative therapy for patients with severe coronary artery disease that improves myocardial ischemic symptoms by delivering low‐energy shock wave stimulation to ischaemic myocardium with low‐energy pulsed waves. However, the specific mechanism of its protective effect is not fully understood, especially for the protective mechanism in cardiomyocytes after hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). We selected a rat H9c2 cardiomyocyte cell line to establish a stable H/R cardiomyocyte injury model by hypoxia/reoxygenation, and then used SWT for therapeutic intervention to explore its cardiomyocyte protective mechanisms. The results showed that SWT significantly increased cell viability and GSH levels while decreasing LDH levels, ROS levels, and MDA levels. SWT also improved mitochondrial morphology and function of cells after H/R. Meanwhile, we found that SWT could increase the expression of GPX4, xCT, and Bcl‐2, while decreasing the expression of Bax and cleaved caspase‐3, and inhibiting cardiomyocyte apoptosis and ferroptosis. Moreover, this protective effect of SWT on cardiomyocytes could be significantly reversed by knockdown of xCT, a key regulator protein of ferroptosis. In conclusion, our study shows that SWT can attenuate hypoxia–reoxygenation‐induced myocardial injury and protect cardiomyocyte function by inhibiting H/R‐induced apoptosis and ferroptosis, and this therapy may have important applications in the treatment of clinical myocardial ischemic diseases.
Drone‐Assisted Long‐Distance Delivery of Medical Supplies with Recharging Stations in Rural Communities
Authors: Liu Jiyang , Ding Yu , Qiu Rui , Meng Zhiyi , Sun Deguo , Peng Xinying
Published: August 2024

In the past few years, drones have been adopted as a novel delivery tool towards medical supplies, improving delivery service efficiency due to fast speed and neglection of geographical limitations. However, the flight endurance of a battery‐operated drone is limited for long‐distance medical supplies delivery operations. Recharging stations, as a kind of drone facility, allow multiple stops for drones to supplement the power to overcome the flight‐range limitations. This paper studies drone‐assisted long‐distance medical supplies delivery with recharging stations in rural communities by a mixed integer linear programming model. To illustrate the applicability of this model and explore the key factors influencing delivery efficiency of medical supplies, a case study from China is conducted. The results indicate that enhancements on the speed of a truck or a drone can yield considerable delivery cost reduction. In addition, drone‐recharging technology advances can improve delivery efficiency of medical supplies in rural communities.
An Overview of Deep Learning Applications in Groundwater Level Modeling: Bridging the Gap between Academic Research and Industry Applications
Authors: Ali Ahmed Shakir Ali , Jazaei Farhad , Babakhani Peyman , Ashiq Muhammad Masood , Bakhshaee Alireza , Waldron Brian
Published: August 2024

As a critical component of sustainable water management, groundwater level prediction plays a vital role in mitigating droughts and ensuring adequate water supply. For decades, groundwater level dynamics have been primarily studied through physics‐based models, solving partial differential equations. However, interest has increased over the past few years in using Machine Learning (ML) approaches, like Deep Learning (DL) techniques, to study groundwater fluctuation dynamics more efficiently. DL models utilize complex algorithms to identify patterns that may be difficult to observe with traditional physics‐based models, specifically where the underlying physics is complex or poorly understood or where the available physical model is too simple. The article provides an overview of the literature published since 2001, encompassing 91 works that employed ML models to investigate groundwater‐related issues. Within this body of literature, 47 articles employed ML for groundwater level (GWL) modeling. Later, this article delves specifically into the latest advancements in DL for modeling GWL, including recurrent neural network (RNN), long short‐term memory (LSTM), and gated recurrent unit (GRU), and discusses their technical promising performance and advantages. We found that the most used time scale was monthly, which appeared in 18 articles, followed by the daily time scale, which appeared in 13 articles. The authors of the articles used normalization as a feature scaling method in 18 articles, while standardization was used in 3 articles. Python was the predominant programming language used in 18 studies for developing machine learning models, followed by MATLAB, which was used in 5 articles. Most authors divided their data sets into 60–90% for training and 10–40% for testing. Most studies have focused on pure academic research rather than practical industrial applications. Therefore, this article identifies shortcomings in recent literature on DL for GWL studies and suggests addressing these issues to improve practical application in real‐world settings.
Overheating and Air Velocities in Modern Office Buildings During Heating Season
Authors: Kiil Martin , Simson Raimo , Thalfeldt Martin , Kurnitski Jarek
Published: August 2024

Proper design and operation of buildings are expected to result in optimal thermal comfort and energy performance at the same time. If occupants are not satisfied with thermal conditions, corrective actions by building managers and maintenance staff may lead to elevated room temperatures with evident energy penalties. Because of complicated technical systems and control logic, it is worth studying how well the design intent has been realised in new office buildings. In this study, thermal comfort was analysed by measurements of draught, room, and supply air temperature as well as with occupant questionnaire surveys in five modern office buildings. Both short‐ and long‐term measurements were conducted to demonstrate problems in the operation and to find potential solutions for improvement. The results revealed an issue of excessive overheating during the heating season despite generally low air velocities. Radiant ceiling panels had the lowest velocities in both summer and winter, while buildings with active chilled beams showed the potential to meet Category II air velocity and temperature requirements. The building with thermally activated building systems experienced the most overheating during the heating season. Occupants were satisfied with the heating season temperatures of 23°C–25°C that can be attributed to lighter clothing (0.7 clo) instead of the standard 1.0 clo. Ventilation supply air and indoor temperature analyses indicate that elevated setpoints have been used to compensate for draught, resulting in overheating. As a measure of improvement to avoid overheating, we propose control curves for room temperature based on the outdoor running mean temperature and for supply air temperature based on the extract air temperature.
High Parathyroid Hormone Rather than Low Vitamin D Is Associated with Reduced Event-Free Survival in Childhood Cancer
Authors: Grasemann Corinna , Höppner Jakob , Högler Wolfgang , Tippelt Stephan , Grasemann Maximilian , Grabow Desiree , Cario Gunnar , Zimmermann Martin , Schrappe Martin , Reinhardt Dirk , Schündeln Michael M.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Vitamin D deficiency is linked to poor cancer outcomes but the impact of its consequence, elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH), remains understudied. PTH receptor activation influences cancer progression in vitro, yet the effect of elevated PTH on pediatric cancer survival is unexamined.

Methods:

This retrospective study examines associations between PTH, 25-OH vitamin D (25OHD), and event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with pediatric cancer. Laboratory data from 4,349 patients (0–18 years) at a tertiary pediatric cancer unit were analyzed for the highest PTH and lowest 25OHD levels at diagnosis and the following 5 years. Data on relapse, secondary malignancies, and mortality were stratified by PTH levels above/below the cohort median (47 pg/mL) and 25OHD levels ≤30 nmol/L. EFS and OS were analyzed and hazard ratios (HR) were calculated for the entire cohort and six cancer subgroups.

Results:

PTH and 25OHD values were available for 1,286 patients (731 male). Higher PTH associated with inferior EFS in primary malignant brain tumors [HR, 1.80 (1.19–2.72)], embryonal malignancies [HR, 2.20 (1.1–4.43)], and lymphatic malignancies [HR 1.98 (1.05–3.72)]. Vitamin D deficiency associated with inferior EFS in embryonal malignancies [HR 2.41 (1.24–4.68)]. In a multivariate Cox model, only higher PTH remained significant for inferior EFS.

Conclusions:

Elevated PTH may indicate adverse outcomes in certain pediatric cancers.

Impact:

This study identifies elevated parathyroid hormone as a potential marker for poor outcomes in patients with pediatric cancer, emphasizing the need for adequate vitamin D and calcium management.
Disparities in Cancer Stage of Diagnosis by Rurality in California, 2015 to 2019
Authors: Oh Debora L. , Wang Katarina , Goldberg Debbie , Schumacher Karen , Yang Juan , Lin Katherine , Gomez Scarlett Lin , Shariff-Marco Salma
Published: August 2024

Background:

Cancer rates in rural areas vary by insurance status, socioeconomic status, region, race, and ethnicity.

Methods:

California Cancer Registry data (2015–2019) were used to investigate the stage of diagnosis by levels of rurality for the five most common cancers. The percentage of residents in rural blocks within census tract aggregation zones was categorized into deciles up to 50%. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate associations with rurality, with separate models by cancer site, sex, race, and ethnicity (non-Hispanic White and Hispanic). Covariates included individual-level and zone-level factors.

Results:

The percentage of late-stage cancer diagnosis was 28% for female breast, 27% for male prostate, 77% for male lung, 71% for female lung, 60% for male colorectal, 59% for female colorectal, 7.8% for male melanoma, and 5.9% for female melanoma. Increasing rurality was significantly associated with increased odds of late-stage cancer diagnosis for female breast cancer (Ptrend < 0.001), male lung cancer (Ptrend < 0.001), female lung cancer (Ptrend < 0.001), and male melanoma (Ptrend = 0.01), after adjusting for individual-level and zone-level factors. The strength of associations varied by sex and ethnicity. For males with lung cancer, odds of late-stage diagnosis in areas with >50% rural population was 1.24 (95% confidence interval, 1.06–1.45) for non-Hispanic White patients and 2.14 (95% confidence interval, 0.86–5.31) for Hispanic patients, compared with areas with 0% rural residents.

Conclusions:

Increasing rurality was associated with increased odds for late-stage diagnosis for breast cancer, lung cancer, and melanoma, with the strength of associations varying across sex and ethnicity.

Impact:

Our findings will inform cancer outreach to these rural subpopulations.
Table 4 from A First-in-Human Phase I Clinical Study with MVX-ONCO-1, a Personalized Active Immunotherapy, in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Vernet Rémi , Fernandez Eugenio , Migliorini Denis , Ancrenaz Virginie , Charrier Emily , Belkouch Marie-Claude , Von Rohr Olivier , Urwyler Muriel , De Vito Claudio , Renaux Jessica , Villard Jean , Rubin Olivier , Grogg Julien , Mach Nicolas
Published: August 2024

Summary of OS of each patient since the start of MVX-ONCO-1 treatment
Figure 5 from A First-in-Human Phase I Clinical Study with MVX-ONCO-1, a Personalized Active Immunotherapy, in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Vernet Rémi , Fernandez Eugenio , Migliorini Denis , Ancrenaz Virginie , Charrier Emily , Belkouch Marie-Claude , Von Rohr Olivier , Urwyler Muriel , De Vito Claudio , Renaux Jessica , Villard Jean , Rubin Olivier , Grogg Julien , Mach Nicolas
Published: August 2024

In vivo and ex vivo immune responses against autologous irradiated tumor cells or tumor-associated antigens. A, Hematoxylin and eosin staining of a skin punch biopsy of the DTH site showing a representative perivascular area of immune infiltration (black arrow). B, Kaplan–Meyer survival curve and median OS according to DTH status. C and D, IFNγ ELISpot of PBMC secretion after stimulation. Total PBMCs (105 per well) from patients at three different time points (before, during, and after treatment) were incubated in the presence of autologous irradiated tumor cells (C) or Brachyury protein (D). Representative plate images for MVX-01-44 PBMC, nonstimulated (left), stimulated with irradiated tumor cells (middle), or with Brachyury protein (right) is depicted in E. The final number of spot-forming units (SFU) was calculated after background subtraction (negative controls). All conditions were run in triplicate. Patient with PR are highlighted in red.
Table S2 from Clinical Efficacy of the HIV Protease Inhibitor Indinavir in Combination with Chemotherapy for Advanced Classic Kaposi Sarcoma Treatment: A Single-Arm, Phase II Trial in the Elderly
Authors: Sgadari Cecilia , Scoppio Biancamaria , Picconi Orietta , Tripiciano Antonella , Gaiani Francesca Maria , Francavilla Vittorio , Arancio Angela , Campagna Massimo , Palladino Clelia , Moretti Sonia , Monini Paolo , Brambilla Lucia , Ensoli Barbara
Published: August 2024

Supplementary Table 2 shows the treatment-related AE numbers by study phases.
Table 2 from Clinical Efficacy of the HIV Protease Inhibitor Indinavir in Combination with Chemotherapy for Advanced Classic Kaposi Sarcoma Treatment: A Single-Arm, Phase II Trial in the Elderly
Authors: Sgadari Cecilia , Scoppio Biancamaria , Picconi Orietta , Tripiciano Antonella , Gaiani Francesca Maria , Francavilla Vittorio , Arancio Angela , Campagna Massimo , Palladino Clelia , Moretti Sonia , Monini Paolo , Brambilla Lucia , Ensoli Barbara
Published: August 2024

Clinical responses upon induction (6–8 months), maintenance (12 months), and post-therapy follow-up (12 months)
Combination of or Transition between Deep Brain Stimulation and Responsive Neurostimulation for the Treatment of Drug-Resistant Epilepsy
Authors: Yang Jimmy C. , Skelton Henry , Isbaine Faical , Bullinger Katie L. , Alwaki Abdulrahman , Cabaniss Brian T. , Willie Jon T. , Gross Robert E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Neuromodulation is an important treatment modality for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who are not candidates for resective or ablative procedures. However, randomized controlled trials and real-world studies reveal that a subset of patients will experience minimal reduction or even an increase in seizure frequency after neuromodulation. We describe our experience with patients who undergo a second intracranial neuromodulation procedure after unsatisfactory initial response to intracranial neuromodulation. Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review to identify all patients who had undergone deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus (ANT) or responsive neurostimulation (RNS), followed by additional intracranial neuromodulatory procedures, with at least 12 months of follow-up. Demographic and clinical data, including seizure frequencies, were collected. Results: All patients had temporal lobe epilepsy. Six patients were treated with concurrent ANT DBS and temporal lobe RNS, and 3 patients transitioned between neuromodulation systems. Of the patients treated concurrently with ANT DBS and temporal lobe RNS, 5 of the 6 patients experienced additional reduction in seizure frequency after adding a second neuromodulation system. Of the patients who switched between neuromodulation modalities, all patients experienced further reduction in seizure frequency. Conclusions: For patients who do not experience adequate benefit from initial therapy with ANT DBS or temporal lobe RNS, the addition of a neuromodulation system or switching to a different form of neuromodulation may allow for additional reduction in seizure frequency. Larger studies will need to be performed to understand whether the use of multiple systems concurrently leads to improved clinical results in patients who are initially treatment resistant to neuromodulation.
Significance of Gene Polymorphism and Gene Expression of BACE2 in Swedish Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Dimberg Jan , Shamoun Levar , af Geijerstam Kristin , Landerholm Kalle , Wågsäter Dick
Published: August 2024

Introduction: β-site amyloid precursor protein (APP) cleaving enzyme 2 (BACE2) cleaves APP which is ubiquitously expressed in a variety of cell types including cancer cells. BACE2 can process APP in several ways and appears to be involved in the pathogenesis of cancer. Our purpose was to assess the association of mRNA expression and genetic polymorphism of BACE2 in colorectal cancer (CRC) susceptibility and its association to clinicopathological factors in Swedish patients with CRC. Methods: A total of 720 CRC patients and 470 healthy controls were genotyped for BACE2 gene polymorphism rs2012050, using TaqMan single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) assays based on polymerase chain reaction. Reverse transcription quantitative PCR was used to investigate the BACE2 gene expression in 192 CRC tissue and 181 paired normal tissue. Results: Assessing clinicopathological factors, we noted that carrying of T allele in C/T and C/T+T/T was significantly associated with a protective role against disseminated cancer and higher lymph node status. Moreover, individuals carrying T/T genotype were significantly more likely to have poorly differentiated cancer. Follow-up data for patients in poorly differentiated cancer and the Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the cancer-specific survival curves differed between C/C and C/T+T/T for the BACE2 gene polymorphism and that the carriers of the genotype C/C were associated with more favorable prognosis. We found no significant differences in the genotypic frequencies between the patients and healthy controls. BACE2 mRNA level was significantly 2.2-fold upregulated in CRC tissue when compared to noncancerous tissue. A higher BACE2 mRNA level was observed in smaller tumors and in rectal cancer when compared to colon cancer. Conclusion: In patients with CRC, our results indicate BACE2 rs2012050 as a useful potential predictor of poor differentiation, disseminated cancer and lymph node status and that the BACE2 mRNA expression is associated to tumor size and cancer location.