bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of condylar and mandibular movements on the upper airway during the use of mandibular advancement device for obstructive sleep apnea treatment
Authors: Pereira Amanda , Gurgel Marcela , Pereira Rowdley , Fabbro Cibele Dal , Silva Paulo de Barros , Costa Fabio , Leite Leonardo , Moro Alexandre , Cevidanes Lucia , Junior Cauby Chaves
Published: June 2023

Objectives: To evaluate the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), condylar and mandibular movements in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients treated with mandibular advancement device (MAD), and to identify the influence of these anatomic factors on upper airway (UA) volume and polysomnographic outcomes after treatment.
Materials and methods: Twenty OSA patients were prospectively treated with MAD. Clinical examinations, cone-beam computed tomography, and polysomnography were performed before MAD treatment and after achieving therapeutic protrusion. Polysomnographic variables and three-dimensional measurements of the TMJ, mandible, and upper airway were statistically analyzed.
Results: Condylar rotation, anterior translation, and anterior mandibular displacement were directly correlated with total UA volume, while vertical mandibular translation was inversely correlated with the volume of the inferior oropharynx. MAD treatment resulted in an increase in the volume and area of the superior oropharynx. There was no statistically significant correlation between condylar rotation and translation and polysomnographic variables. With MAD, there was a significant increase in vertical dimension, changes in condylar position (rotation and translation), and mandibular displacement. The central and medial lengths of the articular eminence were inversely correlated with condylar rotation and translation, respectively. The lateral length of the eminence was directly correlated with condylar translation, and the lateral height was directly correlated with condylar rotation and translation.
Conclusion: Condylar and mandibular movements influenced UA volume. The articular eminence played a role in the amount of condylar rotation and translation.
Clinical relevance: Individualized anatomical evaluation of the TMJ proves to be important in the therapy of OSA with MAD.
Serum Metabolomic Profiling of In-Stent Neoatherosclerosis Confirmed by Optical Coherence Tomography in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Wang Zhuozhong , Fan Lei , Yang Yue , Feng Shi , Liu Huimin , Fang Shaohong , Fang Yan
Published: June 2023

Introduction:
In-stent neoatherosclerosis (ISNA) leads to late stent thrombosis (LST) and very late stent thrombosis (VLST), which are major limitations of drug-eluting stents (DESs) application. Metabolic heterogeneity among individuals poses challenges for ISNA prevention.
Objectives
To explore the specific metabolic molecular dysregulation underlying ISNA.
Methods
After DES implantation in the iliac artery, eight rabbits were received a high cholesterol diet (HCD), while another eight control rabbits were fed a normal diet. Serum samples were collected at baseline and after treatments for untargeted metabolomic analysis. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and histological examination were used to classify the different outcomes of ISNA progression.
Results
Among the rabbits fed the HCD, six developed ISNA and were categorized as Group A, while the remaining two rabbits on the HCD without ISNA were classified as Group B. Additionally, eight control rabbits on a normal diet were designated as Group C. Metabolomics analysis detected a total of 36883 metabolic peaks, leading to the identification of 279 metabolites. Dysregulation of 67, 2, and 40 metabolites was observed in Groups A, B, and C, respectively. Eight dysregulated pathways were enriched based on the 67 differential metabolites in the ISNA group. Notably, eight metabolites, including 9-trans-palmitelaidic acid, biliverdin, palmitoleic acid, choline, cystine, pipecolinic acid, histidine, and L-proline, exhibited specific changing trends in the ISNA group compared to Groups B and C.
Conclusion
This study provides comprehensive insights into the metabolic molecular mechanisms underlying ISNA, and emphasizes the significance of personalized prevention strategies based on individual metabolic profiles.
“Non-criteria” antiphospholipid antibodies aid risk stratification in autoimmune recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: Zhao Qianqian , Li Xueying , Huang Minling , Huang Xinyi , Liu Dongzhou , Huang Qin , Hong Xiaoping
Published: June 2023

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a serious pregnancy disease caused by a variety of factors. Obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome (OAPS) is the most prevalent treatable cause of RPL. Although some RPL patients do not meet the diagnosis of OAPS, they may benefit from the standard treatment of OAPS. However, the diagnosis and treatment of these patients are controversial. To evaluate the value of “non-criteria” antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) in RPL patients, and to assess whether RPL patients with “criteria”/ “non-criteria” aPL positivity could benefit from treatment with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) and low-dose aspirin (LDA), we profiled five “criteria” and ten “non-criteria” aPLs, namely LA, aCL IgG/M, aβ2GPI IgG/M, aPS/PT IgG/M, aANXA5, aANXA2, aVIM, aβ2GPI-D1, aPE, aPI IgG/M, aPS IgG, in 11 OAPS, 65 “non-criteria” OAPS (NOAPS), 31 OAPS carrier, 90 connective tissue disease-RPL (CTD-RPL), 75 unexplained RPL (URPL), 45 thrombotic APS (TAPS) patients, and 81 healthy controls (HCs). Our results showed that aPS/PT IgG/M, aANXA5, aANXA2, aVIM, aβ2GPI-D1, aPE, aPI IgG/M, and aPS IgG were associated with RPL. We found that aPS/PT IgG was positively correlated with the number of “criteria” aPL positivity in APS patients. Importantly, “non-criteria” aPL-positive RPL patients could benefit from the treatment with LMWH and LDA. Combined aPE, aANXA2, aVIM, and aβ2GPI-D1 could distinguish OAPS, NOAPS, OAPS carrier, CTD-RPL, and URPL group from HCs. Our study demonstrates the utility of “non-criteria” aPLs in identifying RPL women with clinical features of OAPS, which is expected to provide tailored treatment management for RPL patients and ultimately improve obstetric outcomes.
Employing Deep Learning Model to Evaluate Speech Information in Acoustic Simulations of Auditory Implants
Authors: Sinha Rahul , Azadpour Mahan
Published: June 2023

Acoustic simulations have played a prominent role in the development of speech processing and sound coding strategies for auditory neural implant devices. Traditionally evaluated using human subjects, acoustic simulations have been used to model the impact of implant signal processing as well as individual anatomy/physiology on speech perception. However, human subject testing is time-consuming, costly, and subject to individual variability. In this study, we propose a novel approach to perform simulations of auditory implants. Rather than using actual human participants, we utilized an advanced deep-learning speech recognition model to simulate the effects of some important signal processing as well as psychophysical/physiological factors on speech perception. Several simulation conditions were produced by varying number of spectral bands, input frequency range, envelope cut-off frequency, envelope dynamic range and envelope quantization. Our results demonstrate that the deep-learning model exhibits human-like robustness to simulation parameters in quiet and noise, closely resembling existing human subject results. This approach is not only significantly quicker and less expensive than traditional human studies, but it also eliminates individual human variables such as attention and learning. Our findings pave the way for efficient and accurate evaluation of auditory implant simulations, aiding the future development of auditory neural prosthesis technologies.
Population Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Modeling of Nifekalant Injection with varies dosing plan in Chinese Volunteers: A Randomized, Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: JIANG JUANJUAN , xu LI , Chai Lin , Zhang Li , Liu Hong , Sun Hui , Tian Lei
Published: June 2023

Nifekalant hydrochloride is a class III antiarrhythmic agent which could increase the duration of the action potential and the effective refractory period of ventricular and atrial myocytes by blocking the K+ current. Nifekalant is used to prevent ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation. QT interval prolongation is the main measurable drug effect. However, due to the complicated dosing plan in clinic,the relationship among dosage, time, drug concentration and efficacy is not fully understood. In this study, a single-center, randomized, blind, dose-ascending, placebo-controlled study was conducted to explore the intrinsic characteristics of nifekalant injection in healthy Chinese volunteers by a population pharmacokinetic (PK)-pharmacodynamic (PD) model approach. 42 subjects were enrolled in this study and received one of three dose plans (loading dose on Day 1 (0.15, 0.3 or 0.5 mg/kg), loading dose followed by maintenance dose (0.2, 0.4 or 0.8 mg/kg/h) on Day 4) or vehicle. Blood samples were drawn for PK evaluation, and ECGs were recorded for QTc calculation at the designed timepoints. No Torsades de Pointes occurred during the study. The popPK model of nifekalant injection could be described by a two-compartment model with first-order elimination. The population mean clearance (CL) was 53.8 L/h. The population mean distribution volume of the central (Vc) and peripheral (Vp) compartments was 8.27 L and 45.6 L, respectively. A nonlinear dose-response (Emax) model well described the pharmacodynamic effect (QTc interval prolongation) of nifekalant. The Emax and EC50 from current study were 101 ms and 342 ng/mL, respectively.
The association between hemoglobin level and sarcopenia in patients with Crohn's disease
Authors: Hu Nandong , Liu Jingjing , Gao Xifa , Tang Hongye , Wang Jiangchuan , Wei Zicheng , Wang Zhongqiu , Chen Xiao
Published: June 2023

Sarcopenia and anemia are common complication in patients with Crohn's Disease (CD). However, few studies have showed the association between sarcopenia and hemoglobin level in patients with CD. This study aimed to explore such association in a Chinese population with CD. Two hundreds and twelve adult CD inpatients who underwent computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations from July 2019 to December 2021 were included. Sarcopenia was defined according to the cutoff value of skeletal muscle index of lumbar spine 3 (SMI-L3) (< 44.77cm2/m2 for male and < 32.5cm2/m2 for female). The inpatients with CD were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of sarcopenia. The clinical data, hemoglobin levels and other laboratory data were retrospectively collected. The association between hemoglobin levels and sarcopenia were identified through univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Sarcopenia occurred in 114 CD patients (53.8%). Compared to patients without sarcopenia, patients with sarcopenia had significantly lower proportion of L1 (30.7% vs 45.8%, p = 0.032) and B1 classification (58.8% vs 72.4%, P = 0.037). Patients with sarcopenia had significant lower level of hemoglobin (Hb) (116.5 ± 22.8 vs 128.1 ± 21.0, p < 0.001). The prevalence of sarcopenia increased with the decrease of hemoglobin level (p for trend < 0.05). Linear regression analysis showed that hemoglobin levels were associated to SMI-L3 (β = 0.091, p = 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis found that higher Hb (OR:0.98; 95% CI: 0.96,0.99; p = 0.034) were independent associated factors for sarcopenia. Lower Hb levels are independent associated factors of sarcopenia in adult inpatients with CD.
Anaemia among adolescent girls, pregnant and lactating women in south coastal region of Bangladesh: prevalence and associated factors
Authors: Ara Gulshan , Hassan Rafid , Haque Md. Ahshanul , Boitchi Anika Bushra , Ali Samira Dilruba , Kabir Kazi Sudipta , Mahmud Riad Imam , Islam Kazal Ahidul , Rahman Hafizur , Islam Zhahirul
Published: June 2023

Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly anaemia, are more likely to affect children and reproductive-aged women. Through a cross-sectional survey using multi-stage cluster-random sampling techniques, the study assessed the current anaemia status among adolescent girls, pregnant and lactating women as well as the associated factors with anaemia in this population in South-coastal Bangladesh. The average age of women was 24.0 and 15.2 years for girls. Half of the pregnant, 46% of lactating-women and 38% of adolescent-girls were assessed as anaemic. Around 20% of the respondents reported consumed more than five food groups, in last 24-hours. Risk of mild anaemia was higher among Hindu girls. Pregnant-women who washed hands after using toilet and who received 4 + ANC visits [aOR 0.35, 95% CI: 0.16–0.77, p = 0.009] had lower likelihood of having any form of anaemia. Pregnant-women who consumed > 5 food groups had less risk of anaemia (aOR: 0.14, 95% CI:0.05–0.37, p < 0.001). Second and third trimester pregnant women were more likely to be anaemic. Lactating-women who consumed > 5 food groups, who always washed hands before food preparation, received 4 + ANC visits, consumed > 90 IFA, had decreased risk of anaemia. Appropriate measures should be taken to address the substantial prevalence of anaemia among this vulnerable group.
Insight into the on/off switch that regulates expression of the MSMEG-3762/63 efflux pump in Mycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Campolattano Nicoletta , D'Abrosca Gianluca , Russo Luigi , De Siena Barbara , Gala Milena Della , De Chiara Ida , Marasco Rosangela , Goff Aaron , Waddell Simon J , Sacco Margherita , Muscariello Lidia
Published: June 2023

Drug resistance is one of the most difficult challenges facing tuberculosis (TB) control. Drug efflux is among the mechanisms leading to drug resistance. In our previous studies, we partially characterized the ABC-type MSMEG-3762/63 efflux pump in Mycobacterium smegmatis, which shares high percentage identity with the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Rv1687/86c pump. MSMEG-3762/63 was shown to have extrusion activity for rifampicin and ciprofloxacin, used in first and second-line anti-TB treatments. Moreover, we described the functional role of the TetR-like MSMEG-3765 protein as a repressor of the MSMEG_3762/63/65 operon and orthologous Rv1687/86/85c in M. tuberculosis. Here we show that the operon is upregulated in the macrophage environment, supporting a previous observation of induction triggered by acid-nitrosative stress. Expression of the efflux pump was also induced by sub-inhibitory concentrations of rifampicin or ciprofloxacin. Both these drugs also prevented the binding of the MSMEG-3765 TetR repressor protein to its operator in the MSMEG_3762/63/65 operon. The hypothesis that these two drugs might be responsible for the induction of the efflux pump operon was assessed by bioinformatics analyses. Docking studies using a structural model of the regulator MSMEG-3765 showed that both antibiotics abolished the ability of this transcriptional repressor to recognize the efflux pump operon by interacting with the homodimer at different binding sites within the same binding pocket. Reduced binding of the repressor leads to induction of the efflux pump in M. smegmatis, and reduced efficacy of these two anti-mycobacterial drugs.
Ferroptosis Related Prediction Model for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Sensitive to Chemotherapy Embolization Therapy Based on Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Rui Jiang , Zhengli Liu , Guanqi Fu , Boxiang Zhao , Maofeng Gong , Zhaoxuan Lu , Yangyi Zhou , Liang Chen , Haobo Su , Wensheng Lou , Guoping Chen , Jie Kong , Jianping Gu , Xu He
Published: June 2023

Objective: The objective of this study was to develop a predictive model that can help with effective transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) in treating hepatocellular carcinoma by identifying ferroptosis-associated genes.
Methods: In this study, the GSE104580 dataset from the GEO database was analyzed to identify significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were then used to identify genes associated with chemoembolization sensitivity and ferroptosis using the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). These genes were then used to construct a TACE treatment sensitivity prediction model using lasso regression. Immune infiltration analysis was also conducted, and a hub mRNA, hub miRNA, and hub lncRNA interaction network was established. The TCGA dataset was used to construct a prediction model which was validated by ICGC dataset.
Results: Using the GSE104580 dataset, a total of 2689 DEGs were screened, resulting in the identification of 37 genes. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis was performed based on these genes, and key genes involved in predicting TACE treatment sensitivity for liver cancer were identified through GO, KEGG, and GSEA analyses. Using the lasso regression method, six hub genes were identified: GLS2, CDKN1A, GPT2, ASNS, SLC38A1, and SLC2A1. Two distinct ferroptosis patterns were identified based on these hub genes, and immune infiltration analysis was conducted to further investigate potential associations with liver cancer. Additionally, a hub mRNA, miRNA, and LncRNA interaction network was constructed using data from miRTarBase, TarBase, and Starbase databases. Utilizing a 6-gene signature, two distinct risk groups were identified. Remarkably, patients classified within the high-risk group exhibited a significant decrease in overall survival when compared to their low-risk counterparts (P < 0.001 in the TCGA cohort and P = 0.013 in the ICGC cohort). In addition, the predictive capacity of this signature was further validated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.
Conclusion: This study suggests that the six hub genes identified in this research could serve as important targets for improving liver cancer prognosis. Additionally, these genes can be utilized to construct effective TACE sensitive prediction models to help clinicians in treating hepatocellular carcinoma.
Differential regulatory control of curli (csg) gene expression in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi required more than a functional CsgD regulator
Authors: Ou Camille , Dozois Charles M. , Daigle France
Published: June 2023

The human-specific Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi) causes typhoid fever, a systemic disease with no known reservoir. Curli fimbriae are major components of biofilm produced by Salmonella and are encoded by the csg gene cluster (csgBAC and csgDEFG). The role of curli in S. Typhi is unknown, although detection of anti-curli antibodies suggests they are produced during host infection. In this study, we investigated curli gene expression in S. Typhi. We demonstrated that the CsgD regulatory protein bounds weakly to the csgB promoter. Yet, replacing S. Typhi csgD with the csgD allele from S. Typhimurium did not modify the curli negative phenotype on Congo Red plate suggesting that differential regulation of curli gene expression in S. Typhi is not dependent on modification of the CsgD regulator. The entire csg gene cluster from S. Typhimurium was also cloned into S. Typhi, but again, despite introduction of a fully functional csg gene cluster from S. Typhimurium, curli were still not detected in S. Typhi. Thus, in addition to intrinsic genomic differences in the csg gene cluster that have resulted in production of a modified CsgD protein, S. Typhi has likely undergone other changes independent of the csg gene cluster that have led to distinctive regulation of csg genes compared to others Salmonella serovars.
Research on the influence of collective nostalgia on the purchase intention of time-honored brand products
Authors: Zhang Yi , tao wenxia
Published: June 2023

Individual nostalgia has an important influence on purchase decision, but the influence mechanism of collective nostalgia on purchase decision is not clear. This paper constructs a conceptual model on the basis of the literature. Collective nostalgia affects the purchase intention of time-honored brand products through two paths: perceived quality, perceived value and self-concept connection. In this paper, 276 respondents with collective nostalgia were collected. The empirical results show that collective nostalgia can directly predict the purchase intention of time-honored brand products, and can positively predict the purchase intention of time-honored brand products through the chain mediating effect of perceived quality and perceived value. Self-concept connection also plays a mediating role between collective nostalgia and purchase intention of time-honored brand products. This study extends the individual dimension of nostalgia to the collective dimension, verifies the mechanism of collective nostalgia on purchase intention, and has a certain practical significance for the emotional marketing of time-honored brand products.
The INSIGHT project: A Quality Recognition Programme to showcase excellence in public involvement in health and social care research
Authors: Blackburn Steven , Hine Rachele , Fairbanks Samantha , Parkes Phillip , Murinas Darren , Meakin Andrew , Taylor Robert , Parton Linda , Jones Marilyn , Tunmore Jessica , Lench Jennifer , Evans Nicola , Lewney Katharine , O’Mara Lucy , A Fryer Anthony
Published: June 2023

Background:
The quality of Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) in healthcare research varies considerably and is frequently tokenistic. We aimed to co-produce the Insight | Public Involvement Quality Recognition and Awards programme, based on the UK Standards for Public Involvement (UKSPI) alongside an incremental scale designed by Expert Citizens (a lived experience-led community group), to incentivise and celebrate continuous improvement in PPI.
Methods:
We used Task and Finish Groups (19/44 [43%] public contributor membership) to co-produce the programme which we piloted in three organisations with different healthcare research models. We used surveys and review sessions to capture learning and reflections.
Results:
We co-created:
(i) a quality descriptor matrix comprising four incremental quality levels (Welcoming, Listening, Learning, Leading) for each UKSPI standard
(ii) an assessment framework including guidance materials, self-assessment form and final report template
(iii) an assessor training package
(iv) the quality awards event format and nomination form. These materials were modified based on pilot-site feedback.
Of survey respondents: 94.4% felt they had made at least ‘Some’ personal contribution (half said ‘Quite a lot’/‘A great deal’), 88.9% said they were ‘Always’/‘Often’ able to express their views freely and, 100% stated the programme would have ‘A lot of impact’/‘Quite a bit of impact’.
During the project, we identified the importance of taking time to explain project aims and contributor roles, adapting to the needs of individual contributors and, using smaller bespoke sessions outside the main Task and Finish Groups.
Conclusions:
We co-produced and piloted a quality recognition programme to incentivise and celebrate continuous quality improvement in PPI. One public contributor stated, “I feel strongly that the Insight framework and awards will raise awareness of the [public involvement]work going on in many community settings. [It] is likely to result in better sharing of positive practice, incentivising research groups of any size to start work or to improve the quality of [PPI] could be one of the main benefits. I’m excited that if this initiative takes off, regionally and then in the longer term nationally, it could be a significant step in advancing the [public] voice.”
Insights into Molecular Evolution of Enterovirus D68
Authors: Wolf Jonas
Published: June 2023

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a respiratory virus that primarily affects children and has been associated with sporadic outbreaks of respiratory illness worldwide. The present study evaluated temporal spreading and molecular evolution of EV-D68 clades (A1, A2, B, B1, B2, B3, and C). Bayesian coalescent analyses was performed to study viral evolution. Data from 976 whole genome sequences (WGS) collected between 1977 to 2022 were evaluated. The time to the most recent common ancestor of A1 was 2005-04-17 in the USA, A2 was 2003-12-23 in China, B was 2003-07-06 in China, B1 was 2010-03-21 in Vietnam, B2 was 2006-11-25 in Vietnam, B3 was 2011-01-15 in China, and C was 2000-06-27 in the USA. The molecular origin of the EV-D68 was in Canada in 1995, later it was disseminated in France in 1997, the USA in 1999, Asia in 2008, the Netherlands in 2009, New Zealand in 2010, Mexico in 2014, Kenya in 2015, Sweden in 2016, Switzerland in 2018, Spain in 2018, Belgium in 2018, Australia in 2018, and Denmark in 2019. Recently, in 2022 this virus circulated in the USA. In conclusion, EV-D68 was originated in Canada in 1995 and spread to Europe, Asia, Oceania, Latin America, and Africa.
Prognostic Risk Prediction of Bladder Cancer Patients Regarding the Tumor-Node-Metastasis Staging System and Tumor Infiltration
Authors: Huang Xinmian , Yuan Fang , Li Xiangjie , Hong Chaojin
Published: June 2023

Objective
The clinical stage and pathological grade of bladder tumors are the most valuable parameters to judge the prognosis of bladder tumors. To explore the predictive value of tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage and tumor invasion degree on the prognostic risk of bladder cancer (BC) patients,
Methods
90 cases of BC patients were selected as the research objects. Patient age, disease history, tumor metastasis, TNM stage, and tumor differentiation degree (TDD) were collected, and the influencing factors of patient prognosis were analyzed. In addition, the prognosis and urodynamic status of patients with different TNM stages were compared.
Results
ccording to the results of multiple regression analysis, the TDD, hydronephrosis, occurrence of lymph node metastasis (LNM), and TNM stage were independent prognostic factors of BC patients. The operation time of T3 and T4 patients (133.02 ± 9.72 min, 132.18 ± 10.08 min) was substantially longer than that of T1 and T2 patients (126.38 ± 9.41 min, 127.21 ± 10.28 min) (P < 0.05). The maximum urinary flow rates of patients in the T1, T2, T3, and T4 stages were 15.12 ± 1.79 mL/s, 14.18 ± 1.65 mL/s, 12.03 ± 1.87 mL/s, and 11.76 ± 2.01 mL/s, respectively. The maximum urinary velocity of T3 and T4 patients was notably inferior to that of T1 and T2 patients (P < 0.05), and T2 stage was notably inferior to T1 stage (P < 0.05). The residual urine volumes of patients in the T1, T2, T3, and T4 stages were 27.23 ± 6.78 mL, 27.08 ± 6.54 mL, 42.37 ± 7.02 mL, and 47.54 ± 6.69 mL, respectively. The residual urine volume of T3 and T4 patients was markedly superior to that of T1 and T2 patients (P < 0.05), and T4 was markedly superior to T3 (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
In summary, different TNM stages and degrees of tumor invasion had certain effects on the prognosis of BC patients, and the prognosis of patients can be preliminarily predicted and evaluated by tumor TNM stages.
Heatwave vulnerability of large metropolitans in Bangladesh: an evaluation
Authors: Adnan Mohammed Sarfaraz Gani , Kabir Irfat , Hossain Md Alamgir , Enan Muhammad Esmat , Chakma Salit , Tasneem Syeda Nazifa , Hassan Quazi K. , Dewan Ashraf
Published: June 2023

Heatwaves pose a significant risk to human society. Vulnerability to heatwaves is difficult to assess since it depends on a variety of factors, particularly at the local scale. This study aimed at evaluating the heatwave vulnerability of the five major cities of Bangladesh: Chittagong, Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi, and Sylhet. A heatwave vulnerability index (HVI) was defined as a function of exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity. Timeseries Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer land surface temperature data for 2000–2019 was utilized. The HVI was calculated using a principal component analysis method. The findings of this study indicated that urban centers with a large proportion of built-up areas were more exposed to urban heat than their surroundings. The mean annual LST was highest in Dhaka, the capital, and lowest in Sylhet. Rajshahi and Sylhet had the largest percentage of heat-exposed and sensitive areas, respectively. Sylhet had the highest percentage of heat-vulnerable areas (63%) whereas Dhaka had the highest number of vulnerable people (12.5 million). Increasing urban green and blue infrastructures may help to lessen the negative effects of heatwaves. The methodology and findings of the study could serve as a blueprint for developing heatwave adaptation strategies in Bangladesh, and elsewhere.
Yearly variation of rainfall rate and drop size distribution of RD-80 Disdrometer for Ahmedabad and Thiruvananthapuram
Authors: Shah Nita H. , Shukla Bipasha Paul , Chahal Jyoti
Published: June 2023

The study of the microphysics of precipitation and the development of better rainfall estimation methods heavily rely on studies of the raindrop size distribution (RDSD). This study uses data from the RD-80 Disdrometer collected over three years for Ahmedabad and Thiruvananthapuram (2005–2007). By visualizing the histograms of rainfall bins and calculating the correlation coefficient between rainfall rate and each drop size class of the disdrometer for the monsoon months of June, July, and August, we were able to observe the variability of rainfall year-over-year and month-over-month. The year 2007 appears to have a good link with the greater raindrops for both places, even though the two areas have different characteristics and hence produce different outcomes. Also, except for the year 2005, there is no negative link between rainfall rate and the tiniest droplets in Thiruvananthapuram, which is not the case in Ahmedabad.
A Qualitative Analysis of Algorithm-based Decision Support Usability Testing for Symptom Management Across the Trajectory of Cancer Care: One Size Does Not Fit All
Authors: Yackel Hayley Dunnack , Halpenny Barbara , Abrahm Janet L. , Ligibel Jennifer , Enzinger Andrea , Lobach David F. , Cooley Mary E.
Published: June 2023

Background
Adults with cancer experience symptoms that change across the disease trajectory. Due to the distress and cost associated with uncontrolled symptoms, improving symptom management is an important component of quality cancer care. Clinical decision support (CDS) is a promising strategy to integrate clinical practice guideline (CPG)-based symptom management recommendations at the point of care.
Methods
The objectives of this project were to develop and evaluate the usability of two symptom management algorithms (constipation and fatigue) across the trajectory of cancer care in patients with active disease treated in comprehensive or community cancer care to surveillance of cancer survivors in primary care practice settings. A modified ADAPTE process was used to develop algorithms based on national CPGs. Usability testing involved semi-structured interviews with clinicians from varied care settings, including comprehensive and community cancer centers, and primary care. The transcripts were analyzed with MAXQDA using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis method. A cross tabs analysis was also performed to assess the prevalence of themes and subthemes by cancer care setting.
Results
A total of 17 clinicians (physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants) were interviewed for usability testing. Three main themes emerged: 1) Algorithms as useful, 2) Symptom management differences, and 3) Different target end-users. The cross-tabs analysis demonstrated differences among care trajectories and settings that originated in the Symptom management differences theme. The sub-themes of “Differences between diseases” and “Differences between care trajectories” originated from participants working in comprehensive cancer center, which tend to be disease-specific locations for patients on active treatment. Meanwhile, participants from primary care identified the sub-theme of “Differences in settings,” indicating that symptom management strategies are setting specific.
Conclusions
While CDS can help promote evidence-based symptom management, systems providing care recommendations need to be specifically developed to fit patient characteristics and context. Findings suggest that one set of algorithms will not be applicable throughout the entire cancer trajectory. Unique CDS for symptom management will be needed for patients who are cancer survivors being followed in primary care settings.
Breakfast patterns in relation to physical activity among School Adolescents in Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Ashfaq Mehak Muhammad , Jawed Nida , Safdar Nilofer Fatimi , Bhutto Adnan Ahmed
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND
Breakfast is an essential meal of the day that plays important role in balanced diet of an individual. Studies have been conducted in developed countries; however, literature is scarce on breakfast consumption patterns among South Asian adolescents. Data about breakfast patterns may help in improving unhealthy breakfast habits and enhance the diet patterns of adolescents.
METHODS
This is a secondary study of a Higher Education Commission-funded project. The research participants, aged 11 to 17, were drawn from lower-middle-income secondary schools using multistage random selection. Socio-demographic and breakfast consumption were determined through interview cum questionnaire and food frequency survey.
RESULTS
The frequency of daily breakfast consumption was 82% among the total participants. 72.2% students considered chapatti as a primary meal for breakfast. Physically active children were less likely to skip breakfast 15.9%, whereas 27.6% were skipping breakfast less physically active group. 11.6% of participants were underweight who skipped breakfast.
CONCLUSIONS
According to the findings, the majority of Pakistani schoolchildren like to have breakfast, though their meal choices do not meet basic standards. Therefore, health promoter’s efforts should aim to counsel parents regarding awareness for healthy breakfast choices.
A cross-sectional study from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey reveals the Prognosis and predictors of sarcopenic obesity among cancer patients
Authors: Jiang YiNuo , Yang ChunQian , Zhang Jian , Luo Peng , Jiang WenJie , Wei Ting
Published: June 2023

Objective
Sarcopenic obesity (SO) is a combination of depletion of skeletal muscle mass and obesity, with a high prevalence, undetected onset, challenging diagnosis and poor prognosis. However, studies on SO in cancer settings are limited. We aimed to investigate the association of SO with mortality in cancer patients and the potential predictors involved in the development of SO.
Methods
1344 cancer patients' data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from the years 1999 to 2006 and 2011 to 2014 were examined. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the associations of SO with overall mortality, adjusting for potential confounders. Predictive factors of SO were measured using multivariable logistic regression models. Multiple imputation analysis was used to cope with the missing DXA data.
Results
SO was significantly associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality (adjusted HR 1.20, 95%CI 1.05–1.37) compared with individuals without SO. Insulin resistance (IR) in cancer patients increased the odds of SO by 2.6 times compared to those without IR (adjusted OR = 2.63, p < 0.0001), and those with hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) were 1.4 times more likely to develop SO compared with those without HTG (adjusted OR = 1.40, p < 0.0001). No significant associations between SO and hypercholesterolemia, high LDL, or low HDL levels were found in cancer patients.
Conclusions
This study is the first to figure out the puzzle of what precise predictors are associated with the occurrence of SO in cancer patients. We discovered that SO in cancer settings is significantly associated with IR and HTG, rather than hypercholesterolemia, LDL, HDL cholesterol or sex hormone which were commonly considered. The presence of SO in cancer patients increases the risk of all-cause mortality. In clinical practice, SO may be a potential and promising target for cancer treatment strategies.
A circular economy approach for papermaking residues: production of admixtures for concrete
Authors: Nunes Caio César Zandonadi , de Paula Higor Brandão , Demuner Iara Fontes , de Paula Marcos Oliveira , Pedroti Leonardo Gonçalves , Carvalho Ana Márcia Macedo Ladeira
Published: June 2023

Kraft lignin is a residue of the kraft pulping process that is normally burnt to produce steam and energy. However, given its high availability as the second most abundant biopolymer, a lignin biorefinery is a promising approach to reach a sustainable bioeconomy. Nevertheless, because of lignin’s complex structure, low reactivity and heterogeneity, this is still challenging. The modification of lignin to produce lignosulfonates is a possible use once they have already been validated by the market as plasticizers in concrete mixtures, surfactants, etc. The aim of this work is to produce lignosulfonates from commercial eucalypt kraft lignin and heat-treated lignin by a sulfomethylation reaction and analyze their use as a concrete plasticizer, comparing with a commercial admixture. The produced lignosulfonates presented a higher concentration in sulfur content, once no purification step was employed, but still a significant increase in water solubility from 7.2% to 98.8% when compared to kraft lignin. Cement pastes, fresh and hardened concretes were produced for the evaluation of the plasticizing performance. Fresh concretes were analyzed as to initial consistency (slump test), while the hardened concretes regarding to axial compression strength and the cement pastes as to viscosity. In concentrations of around 2.2% both kraft lignosulfonate and heat-treated lignosulfonate were found to display an increase in the concrete workability of 75 to 95%. Both lignosulfonates were therefore found to be promising once they present the potential to not only reduce water consumption in concrete preparation while maintaining similar resistance, but also improve waste management in kraft mills.
UV accelerated photocatalytic degradation of carbaryl pesticide using nano ZnO
Authors: Ampolu Satheesh , Hanumanthu Usha , Dalai Santhi Priya
Published: June 2023

Nano zinc oxide was synthesized by the wet chemical process using Zinc Nitrate Hexahydrate as a precursor. The synthesized nano ZnO powder was subjected to characterization to know the morphology and physical properties. FTIR analysis was employed for the identification of the functional group, SEM-EDX Analysis was employed to know the morphological structure and size of nanoparticles and elemental confirmation, Transmission Electron Microscopy was employed to determine the particle size and shape of nanoparticles, and X-Ray Diffraction was employed to identify the crystalline structure. Carbaryl pesticide was taken at a fixed concentration of 5 ppm, and 5mg/L of nano ZnO was added as a catalyst and subjected to photodegradation under UV irradiation. It is observed that in 60 minutes 95% of the pesticide was degraded.
Resistance to drying: The role of seedbanks and hyporheic refuges in invertebrate communities
Authors: Viza Aida , Arias-Real Rebeca , Menéndez Margarita , Muñoz Isabel
Published: June 2023

Aquatic refuges are essential for invertebrate communities to cope with flow intermittence in intermittent rivers and ephemeral streams (IRES), but their contribution to recovery after drying remains unclear, although they may be essential to safeguard IRES biodiversity. Here, we explored the role of hyporheic zones (HZs) and dry sediments (seedbanks) as aquatic refuges in six Mediterranean intermittent streams during drying and their contribution to community recovery at the local scale. We analysed the taxonomic and functional composition and diversity in the refuges and benthos under connected flow conditions by combining field and laboratory conditions. We explored the relationship between these metrics and the drying duration, expecting a reduction in diversity and an increase in resistance trait abundances in the refuges. The seedbank and HZ contributed 16 and 40% of the benthic taxa, respectively, and up to 60% of the functional richness found in the benthos. Conversely, we only found a negative relationship of drying duration with the relative abundance of resilience traits, not with resistance traits as initially predicted. The expected increase in drought severity due to climate change will compromise the water needed to maintain the HZ and the moisture in streambed sediments. Therefore, the protection of the integrity of biodiversity recovery mechanisms in IRES is a priority.
Diversity and abundance of free-living nematodes from Carlini station, Isla 25 de Mayo/King George Island, Antarctica: A case study in pristine and disturbed soils
Authors: Salas Augusto , Fusaro Bruno , Rusconi José Matías , Rosales Matías , Balcazar Darío , Achinelly Fernanda , Chaves Eliseo , Sauka Diego , Ruberto Lucas , Ansaldo Martín
Published: June 2023

This study describes the soil nematodes of King George Island (Isla 25 de Mayo) in Antarctica through molecular identification, abundance, and structure analysis. Nematodes are key organisms in terrestrial ecosystems, with important roles in nutrient cycling and trophic networks. Despite the harsh conditions in the extreme environment of Antarctica, these organisms have managed to adapt and survive. Soil samples were collected from pristine and disturbed areas, and morphological and molecular analyses were conducted to identify the nematode species present. Abundance, trophic groups, maturity indices, and colonizer-persister values (cp) were analyzed and compared between the sampling sites. The molecular results revealed four genera of Antarctic nematodes (Coomansus, Calcaridorylaimus, Eudorylaimus, and Plectus), and the phylogenetic relationships of these nematodes with others found in Antarctica were established. ANOSIM and SIMPER statistical analysis showed significant differences in nematode abundance between pristine and disturbed areas. The analysis of the nematode assemblage through MI, EI, and SI showed less disturbance at the pristine sites than at the anthropic sites. Further studies should be carried out at the Carlini Station and 25 de Mayo/King George Island to learn more about the structure of the nematode community and how they are affected by anthropic practices in Antarctic environments.
Survival outcome of chemotherapy-naïve castration-resistant prostate cancer treated with new-generation androgen receptor axis-targeted agents in real-world analysis
Authors: Shimomura Tatsuya , Mori Keiichiro , Yasue Keiji , Matsukawa Akihiro , Fukuokaya Wataru , Yanagisawa Takafumi , Hata Kenichi , Murakami Masaya , Koike Yusuke , Miki Jun , Yamada Hiroki , Kimura Takahiro
Published: June 2023

Purpose
The androgen receptor axis-targeted (ARAT) agents abiraterone and enzalutamide have been introduced against castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). However, determining which of these agents should be used first is a clinical challenge. Therefore, in this study, we compared the efficacy of first-line abiraterone and enzalutamide treatments in chemotherapy-naïve patients with CRPC.
Methods
A total of 242 chemotherapy-naïve CRPC cases treated with first-line ARAT were analyzed. Outcome measures were PSA response, PSA progression-free survival (PSA-PFS), time to treatment failure (TTF), cancer specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS).
Results
Abiraterone (A) and enzalutamide (E) were administered to 61 and 181 patients, respectively. The median PSA response rate (−65.4% [A] and −78.8% [E], p = 0.0341), PSA decline ≥ 30% (55.7% [A] and 72.9% [E], p=0.0183), PSA-PFS (median 4 months [A] and 8 months [E], p=0.021), TTF (median 6 months [A] and 14 months [E], p<0.0001), CSS (median 45 months [A] and not reached [E], p < 0.0001) and OS (median 28 months [A] and 80 months [E], p=0.00029) were significantly better in the enzalutamide group. In the multivariate analyses for CSS and OS, ALP (p=0.003763) and ARAT (p=0.0002052) (CSS), evidence of metastasis (p=0.04674), Hb (p=0.00205) and ARAT (p=0.005143) (OS) were significant factors, respectively.
Conclusion
This study showed that PSA response, PSA-PFS, TTF, CSS and OS were better with first-line enzalutamide administration. Direct inhibition of androgen receptor signaling by enzalutamide is associated with better clinical outcomes.
Molecular characterization of gastroenteric viruses in wastewater from cities in Uruguay
Authors: Bortagaray Viviana , Salvo Matias , Mir Daiana , Colina Rodney , Victoria Matias
Published: June 2023

Group A Rotavirus, Human Astrovirus and Norovirus (RVA, HAstV and NoV) are recognized as the major causative agents of acute gastroenteritis in children and adults worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and molecular epidemiology of RVA, HAstV and NoV in wastewater from three cities in Uruguay. Thirty-six samples from Bella Unión, Salto and Fray Bentos cities were analyzed using quantitative and qualitative PCR. RVA was the most frequently detected virus (50%), followed by HAstV (39%), NoV GII (36%) and NoV GI (25%). RVA strains were characterized as P[8] and G3 based on the VP4 and VP7 genes, respectively. Among NoV positive samples, genotypes GI.2, GI.3, GI.5, GI.6, GI.7, GII.2, GII.6 and GII.4 were detected, and only one HAstV genotype (MLB1) was found. Our wastewater-based epidemiological approach provides a snapshot of the overall genetic diversity of these viruses in three cities of the Uruguay River basin during 2017–2018. These findings reinforce the importance of this environmental surveillance tool for monitoring epidemiological trends of enteric viruses circulating in the population, which can be used to guide public health intervention.