bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Validation of a Novel Prognostic Nomogram for advanced Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Wan Mengdi , Zhang Wei , Huang He , Fang Xiaojie , Chen Yungchang , Tian Ying , Yao Yuyi , Weng Huawei , Chen Zegeng , Yu Le , Tian Yuke , Huang Huageng , Li Xudong , Hong Huangming , Lin Tongyu
Published: October 2023

Background
Advanced diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a common malignant tumor with aggressive clinical features and poor prognosis. At present, there is lack of effective prognostic tool for patients with advanced (stage III/IV) DLBCL. The aim of this study is to identify prognostic indicators that affect survival and response and establish the first survival prediction nomogram for advanced DLBCL.
Methods
A total of 402 patients with advanced DLBCL were enrolled in this study. COX multivariate analysis was used to obtain independent prognostic factors. The independent prognostic factors were included in the nomogram, and the nomogram to predict the performance of the model was established by R rms package, C-index (consistency index), AUC curve and calibration curve.
Results
The training and validation cohorts included 281 and 121 patients. In the training cohort, multivariate analysis showed that Ki-67 (70% (high expression) vs ≤ 70% (low expression), p < 0.001), LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) (elevated vs normal, p = 0.05), FER (ferritin) (elevated vs normal, p < 0.001), β2-microglobulin (elevated vs normal, p < 0.001) were independent predictors and the nomogram was constructed. The nomogram showed that there was a significant difference in OS among the low-risk, intermediate-risk and high-risk groups, with 5-year survival rates of 81.6%, 44% and 6%, respectively. The C-index of the nomogram in the training group was 0.76. The internal validation of the training group showed good consistency. In the internal validation cohort of the training group, the AUC was 0.828, and similar results were obtained in the validation group, with a C-index of 0.74 and an AUC of 0.803.
Conclusion
The proposed nomogram provided a valuable individualized risk assessment of OS in advanced DLBCL patients.
CHD1L knockdown suppresses bladder cancer cell growth in vitro
Authors: Xu Feng , Shi Xiuquan , Wang Zuheng , Chen Yuhao , Xu Xiaofeng , Liu Zhe , Shi Changjie , Li Ping , Liu Youhuang , Zhang Tingling , Fu Dian , Ge Jingping , Cheng Wen
Published: October 2023

PurposeCHD1L is a DNA helicase protein which is involved in recombinant chromatin and DNA damage repair. As a oncogene, how CHD1L was expressed and functioned in human bladder cancer cells were still not clear. This study was conducted to investigate how CHD1L is expressed and functions in human bladder cancer cells.Materials and methodsWe detected the expression level of CHD1L in human bladder cancer 5637 cells using qPCR. Through transfecting shCHD1L-harboring lentivirus and constructing CHD1L-knockdown cell models, MTT assay and flow cytometry assay were employed to detect the changes in cell proliferation, cell cycle and cell apoptosis, respectively. Cellular ability of migration was then tested using wound-healing assay and Transwell assay.ResultsWe found that CHD1L was upregulated in bladder cancer 5637 cells. Knocking down CHD1L blocked cell cycle in G1/S transition and thus suppressed cell proliferation and cell migration, but accelerated cell apoptosis. Further exploration in the molecular mechanism indicated that dysfunctions of shCHD1L-harboring cells resulted from CHD1L downexpression may be involved in the reduction of phosphorylation levels of AKT and ERK proteins.ConclusionsThis study highlighted the tumor-promoting role of CHD1L played in bladder cancer cells, which provided a primary insight into further and deeper on related topics.
The importance of self-management for better treatment outcomes for HIV patients in a low-income setting: perspectives of HIV experts and service providers
Authors: Dadi Tegene Legese , Tegene Yadessa , Vollebregt Nienke , Medhin Girmay , Spigt Mark
Published: October 2023

Background
Self-management is the most important strategy to improve quality of life in patients with a chronic disease. Despite the increasing number of people living with HIV (PLWH) in low-income countries, very little research on self-management is conducted in this setting. The aim of this research is to understand the perspectives of service providers and experts on the importance of self-management for PLWH.
Methods
We used a systematizing expert interview type of qualitative methodology to gain the perspectives of experts and service providers. The study participants had experience in researching, managing, or providing HIV service in east and southern African (ESA) countries. All the interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and translated to English. The quality of the transcripts was ensured by randomly checking the texts against the audio record. A thematic analysis approach supported by Atlas TI version 9 software.
Result
PLWH face a variety of multi-dimensional problems thematized under contextual and process dimensions. The problems identified under the contextual dimension include disease-specific, facility-related, and social environment-related. Problems with individual origin, such as ignorance, outweighing beliefs over scientific issues, low self-esteem, and a lack of social support, were mostly highlighted under the process dimensions. Those problems have a deleterious impact on self-management, treatment outcomes, and the quality of life of PLWH. Low self-management is also a result of professional-centered service delivery in healthcare facilities and health service providers' incapacity to comprehend a patient's need beyond the medical concerns. Participants in the study asserted that patients have a significant stake in enhancing treatment results and quality of life through enhancing self-management.
Conclusion and recommendation:
HIV patients face multifaceted problems beyond their medical issues. The success of medical treatment for HIV is strongly contingent upon patients' self-management practices and the supportive roles of their family, society, and health service providers. The development and integration of self-management practices into clinical care will benefit patients, their families, and the health system.
Genetic association between immune-mediated inflammatory diseases and peripheral artery disease: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Wu Haichao , Zheng Dandan , Zhou Long , Wang Qiang , Wang Tao , Liang Siyuan
Published: October 2023

Background:
Several observational studies have revealed that immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) are associated with an increased risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD). However, the causal association remains to be determined. To corroborate previous research, we conducted Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis with the aim of clarifying the associations of various IMIDs with PAD.
Methods:
two-sample MR analysis was conducted to investigate the potential causal association between six common IMIDs (including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Crohn’s disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), ankylosing spondylitis(AS), psoriasis(PSO)) and PAD. genome-wide association study (GWAS) was used to identify genetic variants associated with IMIDs and PAD. We employed the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method as the primary method to verify the causal relationship between exposures (IMIDs) and outcomes (PAD). In addition, heterogeneity test, horizontal pleiotropy test, and leave-one-out analysis were performed to evaluate the robustness of the MR results.
Results:
The IVW model yielded evidence of a positive association between RA and PAD (OR = 1.059, 95% CI: 1.026-1.094, p＜0.001), which was consistent with the results obtained from MR-Egger regression and weighted median analyses, indicating that the results of MR analysis were reliable. However, no statistically significant associations were observed between other IMIDs, including UC, CD, SLE, AS and PSO, and PAD.
Conclusion:
Our analysis supported the causal association of RA with increased risks of PAD. Strengthening screening and prevention of PAD is of great significance in reducing the risk of PAD in populations with RA.
Comparison of Preventive Effects of Combined Furosemide and Mannitol versus Single Diuretics, Furosemide or Mannitol, on Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Takagi Ayaka , Miyoshi Takanori , Hayashi Toshinobu , Koizumi Hinako , Tsumagari Kyouichi , Yokota Chiaki , Nakano Takafumi , Matsuo Koichi , Egawa Takashi
Published: October 2023

Cisplatin (CDDP)-induced nephrotoxicity is a common dose-limiting toxicity, and diuretics are often administered to prevent nephrotoxicity. However, the efficacy and optimal administration of diuretics in preventing CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity remain to be established. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of combining furosemide and mannitol to prevent CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity.
This study was a post-hoc analysis of pooled data from a multicenter, retrospective, observational study, including 396 patients who received one or two diuretics for CDDP-based chemotherapy, compared using propensity score matching. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify risk factors for nephrotoxicity.
There was no significant difference in the incidence of nephrotoxicity between the two groups (22.2% vs. 28.3%, P=0.416). Hypertension, CDDP dose ≥75 mg/m2, and no magnesium supplementation were identified as risk factors for nephrotoxicity, whereas the use of diuretics was not found to be a risk factor.
The combination of furosemide and mannitol showed no advantage over a single diuretic in preventing CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity. The renal function of patients receiving CDDP-based chemotherapy (≥75 mg/m2) and of those with hypertension should be carefully monitored, and magnesium supplementation is important for these patients.
RETRACTED: A moduli-selective antibody inhibits the pain receptor TRPV1 in cynomolgus monkeys without adverse temperature dysregulation
Authors: Jungholm Oscar , Trkulja Carolina , Papadia Daniela , Hägglund Jessica , Davidson Max , Stratton Jennifer , Tien Jason , Trinh Vivian , Wilson David , Quigley Anna , Sriniv Sreesha , Vazquez-Juarez Erika , Freitag Fabio , Balleza-Tapia Hugo , Marcus Monica , Frumento Paolo , Reymer Anna , Savvidi Parthenia , Willman Gabriella , Ashok Anaswara , Christakopoulou Maria-Nefeli , Bruton Joseph , Jardemark Kent , Orwar Owe
Published: October 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Radiological Risks Associated with the Use of Some Medicinal Plants in Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Fares Soad , Fares Soad
Published: October 2023

This study investigated the natural radioactivity of some medicinal plants With 17 sample plants commonly used in Sinai, Egypt, and evaluated the radiological risks associated with their use. The study found that the concentration of radon in wild desert plants varied widely, with the highest concentration found in Artemisia tridentata (sagebrush). The concentration of radon in the plants was correlated with the concentration of radium in the soil, and the type of plant. The study also found a moderate correlation between radon concentration in wild desert plants and indoor radon concentration. This means that there is a positive relationship between the two variables, i.e., as the radon concentration in wild desert plants increases, the indoor radon concentration also tends to increase. This correlation is likely due to the fact that radon gas can be released from soil and rocks into the air, and wild desert plants can absorb and release radon. It is important to note that the correlation between radon concentration in wild desert plants and indoor radon concentration is not perfect, as there are other factors that can also affect indoor radon concentrations. The study found that the highest concentration of radon in wild desert plants was found in Larrea tridentata2 (sagebrush), with a concentration of 9.25 Bq/kg.
The lowest concentration of radon was found in Al-Hasak, with a concentration of 1.78 Bq/kg. The average concentration of radon in all of the wild desert plant samples was 4.45 Bq/kg. The study also found that the highest concentration of radium in wild desert plants was found in the Booklet tridentata (sagebrush), with a concentration of 190.36 Bq/kg. The lowest concentration of radium was found in Al-Hasak, with a concentration of 43.33 Bq/kg. The average concentration of radium in all of the wild desert plant samples was 0.18 Bq/kg. The study also found that the AEDEin, AEDEout, EM, Radium Concentration, EA, Radon concentration, vary depending on the type of wild desert plant. The highest AEDEin, AEDEout, EM, Radium Concentration and EA, Radon concentration. The lowest AEDEin, AEDEout, EM, Radium Concentration, EA and Radon concentration in Al-Hasak. The study provided shows that the average AEDEin and AEDEout for all of the wild desert plant samples were 64.26 µSv/y and 496.57 µSv/y, respectively. This is well below the international limits. The average Raeq for all of the wild desert plant samples was 251.78 Bq/kg, which is above the international limit. However, it is important to note that the Raeq limit is not a strict limit, and it is possible to have higher levels of Raeq in the environment without any adverse health effects. The UNSCEAR 2000 report sets the following international limits for AEDEin: 1000 µSv/y and AEDEout: 3000 µSv/y.
GH provocative tests stimulate the growth in children with idiopathic short stature
Authors: Tortora Anna , Marotta Vincenzo , Izzo Giulia , Rocco Domenico , Clemente Gennaro , Vitale Mario
Published: October 2023

Context: Growth hormone (GH) deficiency in a child with short stature is diagnosed by GH secretion provocative tests. When tests response is considered adequate, the short stature is considered idiopathic (ISS), and no GH replacement therapy is advised.
Objective: To determine the effect of GH provocative tests on growth rate in children with idiopathic short stature.
Design: Children with short stature with normal response to two GH provocative tests, were enrolled. Height and growth velocity were measured prior and after stimulus tests during the follow-up.
Methods Height, mid-parental height, body weight, and body mass index were measured. The height and growth rate were converted to percentiles and Standard Deviation Score (SDS) using reference ranges standardized for age and sex. GH provocative tests employed arginine or clonidine as secretagogues.
Results: Thirty-one children of both genders were enrolled. Heights were measured at test time and at a mean time prior and after the tests of 205 days and 192 days respectively. After the tests the children displayed a 3.8-fold increase in their estimated 90 days growth rate. The mean growth rate of children pre- and post-tests were -4.0 SDS and 0.3 SDS respectively (p<0.0001). Ten children with ISS were observed for about 5 months before the GH provocative tests. A small increase in growth rate was seen in only 2 of 10 children with ISS before the tests while it increased in all after the tests. The difference of the mean growth rate at first and second observation was not significant (p= 0.219).
Conclusions: Two sequential somatotropic axis provocative tests increase the growth rate in children with idiopathic short stature. The duration of this effect is to be determined.
Pre-existing PET/CT fusion images improve the diagnostic efficacy of CT-guided percutaneous lung biopsy
Authors: Ge Xiangyan , Hao Shanhu , Wang Zhiguo , Zhang Wenwen , Ding Tingting , Zhang Guoxu
Published: October 2023

Objective: To investigate the diagnostic efficacy and complications of CT-guided percutaneous lung biopsy based on PET/CT fusion images.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 87 cases of percutaneous lung biopsy from January 2019 to June 2023, performed in the Department of Nuclear Medicine, Northern Theater General Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army. Preoperative CT or PET-CT images of all patients indicated suspicious malignant lung nodules. Based on the imaging method, the patients were divided into the PET/CT fusion image group (47 cases) and the conventional CT group(40 cases). The PET/CT fusion image group underwent percutaneous lung biopsy guided by the fusion of PET/CT images obtained within 14 days prior to the biopsy and intraoperative CT images. The conventional CT group underwent percutaneous lung biopsy guided by intraoperative CT images.
Results: The biopsy diagnostic rate and diagnostic accuracy in the fusion image group were 68.0% (32/47) and 87.2% (41/47), respectively. In the conventional CT group, the biopsy diagnostic rate and diagnostic accuracy were 62.5% (25/40) and 67.5% (27/40), respectively. The diagnostic rate for malignant tumors in the PET/CT fusion image group (96.6%, 29/30) was significantly higher than that in the conventional CT group (86.2%, 25/29) (P=0.035). No serious procedure-related complications were observed in the PET/CT fusion image group or the conventional CT group.
Conclusion: PET/CT fusion images have important clinical value in improving the biopsy diagnostic rate, diagnostic accuracy, and reducing procedure-related complications for suspicious lung nodules.
Predictive Value of IL-6+SOFA for Mortality Risk in Critical Ill Patients
Authors: Wu Liyan , Zhang Ye , Wang Junyu , Wei Bing , Liu Yugeng
Published: October 2023

Objective
Mortality after critical illness is greatly related to a prediction of disease and clinical decision. We aimed to assess the prognostic value of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) for critically ill patients.
Methods
199 patients with critically ill were included from the emergency department of Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University from October 2020 to April 2021. IL-6 and other markers were tested immediately after admission. Score Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) related to critical illness were calculated. The correlation of monitoring markers and clinical 28-day mortality was analyzed by logistic regression, and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC).
Results
Among the 199 patients, 139 are dead and 60 are survival within 28 days, respectively. SOFA, APACHE II, systolic blood pressure (SBP), serum calcium, Albumin (ALB), high density lipoprotein (HDL), and IL-6 were significantly different in the non-survival and survival groups (P< 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that IL-6, SOFA, APACHE II, and SBP were independent predictors for 28-day mortality in critically ill patients (P< 0.05). The area under curve (AUC) of ROC curve in IL-6 was 0.736 (sensitivity 77%, specificity 66.7%, and cut-off 24.41), which was lower than AUC of ROC curve in SOFA (AUC 0.859, sensitivity 82%, specificity 78.3%, and cut-off 5.5) and APACHE II (AUC 0.767, sensitivity 57.6%, specificity 90%, and cut-off 20.5). The combined evaluation of IL-6+ SOFA had better diagnostic values than IL-6 (Z= 3.799, P= 0.000) or SOFA (Z= 2.283, P= 0.022).
Conclusions
IL-6, SOFA and APACHE II are associated with the prognosis of critically ill patients. Compared with the above markers alone, the IL-6+SOFA score has better predictive value.
Uranium and Radium-226 in Drinking Water of Some Regions of Ukraine: 25 Year of Research and Assesment of Hypothetical Irradiation Doses
Authors: Buzynnyi Mykhailo , Mykhailova Liubov
Published: October 2023

The article summarizes the activity concentrations data of 226Ra and the sum of uranium isotopes (∑U) in samples of drinking underground water for different regions of Ukraine studied during 1998–2023 in the radiation monitoring laboratory of the State Institution "O.M. Marzieiev Institute of Public Health National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine. Arithmetic mean and standard deviations, minimum and maximum values for 226Ra and ∑U activity concentrations are presented for the entire 1240 sample set and for each region separately. Collected data show that the established state permissible level for drinking water of 1.0 Bq/l is exceeded for 226Ra in 1.1% of the studied samples, and for ∑U - in 3.9% correspondingly. The detected high levels of 226Ra and ∑U activity concentrations correspond to certain regions belonging to the Ukrainian crystalline shield territory. A comparison of the current data with the data of previous studies held during of 1989–1991 [1] indicates a significant difference: for the previous studies the average and standard deviations are much higher. We attribute this to the fact that the centralized sampling of previous studies was random, and it was related exclusively to communal water supply systems. At the same time, the current sample set covers a much larger number of regions, different water consumers; the data set includes the results of repeated studies for a large number of sources, in particular, sources with purified water. Hypothetical exposure doses caused by consumption of 226Ra and ∑U in water for the current sample set were estimated for different age groups for each sample studied, as is, without taking into account the pattern of water consumption. The corresponding dose exceeds the WHO recommended value of 0.1 mSv per year for children under the age of one year for 220 cases (17.7%). This dose limit excess for other age groups corresponds - for children: aged 12–17 years – 13.1%, aged 1–2 years − 7.4%, 7–12 years old − 5.6%, 2–7 years old − 3.9% and for adults − 4.1%.
New paint formulation based on vegetable oil-based polymers containing Cu (II), and Co (II), and study their uses as antimicrobial and anticorrosive binders for coating applications
Authors: Hamza S. F. , Elsawy M. M. , abdel-salam Fatma , Sharaf Mohamed H. , El-Wahab H. Abd
Published: October 2023

Linoleic Fatty Acid based poly(ester amide) containing Copper and Cobalt as anticorrosive and antimicrobial binders for protective paints were prepared. The prepared polyesteramide resins were confirmed spectroscopically and investigated by thermogravimetric analysis, Energy Dispersive X-ray and Scanning Electron Microscopy studies. Different substrates either glass or mild steel strips were coated by using the prepared binders with a thickness of 120 +/- 5 µm using a brush. Using international testing standards, the physico-mechanical properties and chemical resistance of the resins were tested to evaluate their coating performance. The obtained results of mechanical properties of the dry coated films hass been enhanced such as Scratch Hardness, and cross-cutt adhesion however the Alkali resistance of the dry coated films has been also improved fron < 15 dys to be > 30 days and Acid resistance the resistance also, incresed from 20 to > 30 days .Furthermore, the resins were assessed as anti-corrosive and antibacterial single coatings by combining them with primer compositions. The results illustrated that Copper and Cobalt-incorporated linoleic fatty acids, within the resin structure, enhanced the antibacterial activity and has been affected on the primer coating formulation which improved their biological activity comparing with sample blank. The observed results of corrosion resistance for the painted steel films based on Copper and Cobalt-incorporated linoleic fatty acids, such as degree of rusting, blistering, and scribe failure confirmed that the prepared resins can be using as anticorrosive binder for steel protection.
Survival Comparisons of Radiofrequency Ablation and different Surgical Procedures in Patients with Stage I Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: a Population-based Analysis
Authors: Zou Yiping , Cai Dianqi , Huang Jing , Li Zhifei , Guo Yu , Song Yuning , Chang Shaofei , Liang Yuexiang , Gao Song
Published: October 2023

Background
This study aims to investigate the impacts of different surgical procedures on the survival outcome of patients with early-stage intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).
Methods
We analyzed 1447 early-stage ICC patients retrieved from the SEER database. The Kaplan–Meier method with log-rank tests was used to assess the differences in survival. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were applied to adjust the confounding bias. Then, we performed subgroup analyses of Stage T1a and T1b patients.
Results
Minor or major resections show the best survival advantage in patients with early-stage ICC. However, patients who underwent extended resection and radiofrequency ablation offered a chance for long-term survival and exhibited significantly better survival than those without surgery. Subgroup analyses indicated that patients who underwent extended resection had better survival outcome compared to those who underwent radiofrequency ablation in Stage T1b patients but not in Stage T1a patients.
Conclusions
Minor or major resection is the prime surgical choice in patients with early-stage ICC. For patients who is unsuitable minor and major resection, it is recommended to perform extended resection in the Stage T1b subgroup and radiofrequency ablation in the Stage T1a subgroup.
Polyethylene Glycol Relieves Hangover by Reducing Alcohol Absorption through the Intestinal Wall
Authors: Ryu Tom , Yang Keungmo , Choi Byung Young , Cho Won Gil , Chung Beom Sun
Published: October 2023

Therapeutic options for hangover following alcohol consumption, a prevalent health problem worldwide, remain unavailable. This study investigated the effectiveness of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on hangovers using a mouse model. First, large quantities of alcohol (4 g/kg body weight) was administered to mice. Subsequently, PEG (2 g/kg body weight) or an equivalent volume of vehicle was administered orally after alcohol consumption. Acute alcohol consumption was found to damage not only the liver but also the small intestine, as noted in histological findings and mRNA expression analysis of inflammatory cytokines. We also identified impaired motor function in the mouse model of binge drinking. Interestingly, PEG drastically prevented injury and inflammation of the small intestine after binge drinking in mice. Furthermore, PEG had hepatoprotective effects, evident from decreased hepatic enzyme levels in the serum, diminished liver injury observed following H and E staining, and decreased infiltration of neutrophils within the liver. Taken together, these findings suggest that PEG administration with acute alcohol consumption may be an effective therapeutic option to prevent severe hangover symptoms or damage to certain organs.
Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation for patient in ataxia-ocular apraxia 2: a case report
Authors: Cheng Xiao-Ping , Yu Wen-Hui , Liu Xia , Lin Wei , Wang Zhao-Di , Wang Xi-Chen , Ni Jun , Cai Nai-Qing , Chen Xin-Yuan
Published: October 2023

Ataxia-ocular apraxia 2 (AOA2) is a rare neurodegenerative autosomal recessive disorder with no effective treatment. In this study, we present the case of a patient diagnosed with AOA2, who experienced walking instability and uncoordinated movement. The patient underwent Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) treatment for four weeks and was followed up after one month. The effectiveness of the treatment was evaluated using International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale ༈ICARS༉, Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia ༈SARA༉, the 9-Hole Peg Test ༈9HPT༉, and Functional near-infrared spectroscopy ༈fNIRS༉. Following the treatment, the patient's ataxia symptoms showed significant improvement and continued to be alleviated during the follow-up period, suggesting a lasting effect of tACS treatment. These findings from our case study provide compelling evidence for the potential of tACS as a treatment option for AOA2.
Altered dynamic functional connectivity of motor cerebellar with sensorimotor network and default mode network in Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy
Authors: Yang Menghan , Zhang Yingying , Zhang Tianyu , Zhou Huanyu , Ren Jiechuan , Zhou Dong , Yang Tianhua
Published: October 2023

Background
To investigate the role of dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) of motor cerebellar motor cerebellar-cortical circuitry in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME).
Methods
The motor cerebellum is divided into five lobules (I–V, VI, VIIb, VIIIa, and VIIIb). We adopted the resting-state EEG-fMRI and the sliding-window approach to explore the dFC of motor cerebellum with SMN and DMN between30 JME patients compared with thirty sex-and age-matched health controls (HCs). Moreover, the relationship between the dFC variability and clinical variables (disease duration, age at disease onset, and frequency score of myoclonic seizures) were also investigated in JME group.
Results
Compared to HCs, the JME group presented increased dFC between the motor cerebellum with sensorimotor network(SMN)and default mode network (DMN). Specifically, connectivity between lobule Ⅶb and right precentral gyrus and left inferior parietal lobule (IPL); between lobule Ⅷa and right middle frontal gyrus (MFG) and left IPL; and between lobule Ⅷb and left MFG, bilateral superior parietal gyrus (SPG), and left precuneus. In addition, within the JME group, the strength of dFC between lobule Ⅷb and left precuneus was negatively (r=-0.424, p = 0.025, Bonferroni correction) related with the frequency score of myoclonic seizures.
Conclusion
JME presents altered dFC variability in motor cerebellum with SMN and DMN, and the strength of dFC between lobule Ⅷb and left precuneus is associated with the severity of JME. These results may provide novel information about the dynamic and wide involvement of the motor cerebellum in the pathophysiology of JME, specifically, the motor cerebellum is involved in motor symptoms.
Real-world efficacy of adjuvant therapy for totally resected stage I lung adenocarcinoma patients with pathological high-risk factors: Propensity score analysis
Authors: Zhao Ke , Yang Libing , Liu Lei , Wang Guige , Zhang Jiaqi , Gao Xuehan , Guo Chao , Huang Cheng , Li Shanqing , Chen Yeye
Published: October 2023

Background
We investigated the real-world efficacy of adjuvant therapy for stage I lung adenocarcinoma patients with pathological high-risk factors.
Methods
Study participants were enrolled from November 1, 2016 and April 30, 2022. Clinical bias was balanced by propensity score matching. Disease-free survival (DFS) outcomes were compared by Kaplan–Meier analysis. The Cox proportional hazards regression was used to identify survival-associated factors. p ≤ 0.05 was the threshold for statistical significance.
Results
A total of 658 patients, among whom 195 (29.6%) underwent adjuvant therapy, were enrolled in this study. One hundred and sixty-seven of the patients who underwent adjuvant therapy were well matched with non-treatment patients. Prognostic outcomes of the treatment group were significantly better than those of the non-treatment group, as revealed by Kaplan-Meier analysis before and after PSM. Differences in prevention of recurrence or metastasis between the targeted therapy and chemotherapy groups were insignificant. Patients with multiple risk factors, stage IB and who were non-smokers were more likely to benefit from adjuvant treatment. Adjuvant therapy was found to be positive prognostic factors.
Conclusions
Adjuvant therapy significantly improved the DFS for stage I lung adenocarcinoma patients with high-risk factors. Larger prospective clinical trials should be performed to verify our findings.
Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome in Syrian Children: Clinicopathological Spectrum, Treatment, and Outcome
Authors: wannous hala
Published: October 2023

Background: Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is the most common glomerular disorder of childhood. We performed this study to report the histopathological findings, correlation between the clinical and histopathological features, with the response to steroids and other immunosuppressive drugs and outcome in Syrian children with INS.
Methods: A single-center observational cohort study was conducted at Children’s University Hospital in Damascus, included all patients aged 1 – 14 years, admitted from January 2013 to December 2022 with INS and underwent kidney biopsy.
Results: The study included 109 patients, with a male/female ratio of 1.13:1, and a mean age of 6.08 years ± 3.73 SD. The main indication of kidney biopsy was steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) (57.8%). The main histopathological patterns were minimal change disease (MCD) (45%) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) (37.6%). FSGS was the most common histopathological pattern in SRNS (44.3%). In SRNS, we used Tacrolimus in 49 patients with response rate of 69.4% and Cyclosporine in 20 patients with response rate of 50%. In steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome (SDNS), we used MMF in 9 patients with response rate of 89% and Cyclophosphamide in 3 patients with response rate of 66.7%. Rituximab was used in four patients with FSGS, two SRNS patients and two SDNS patients, with response rate of 100% and continuous remission till now (more than two years). Fifteen patients (13.7%) progressed to chronic kidney disease stage V, of them 7 patients had FSGS and 8 patients had focal and global glomerulosclerosis, 14 patients of them were steroid resistant and one patient was steroid dependent, and all of them were resistant to immunosuppressants. The most common outcome was recovery (47%) in MCD and frequent relapses (31.7%) in FSGS.
Conclusions: FSGS was the most common histopathological pattern in idiopathic SRNS and has the worst prognosis. Tacrolimus is the most effective second-line therapy in SRNS. Rituximab is an effective and safe treatment that induces prolonged remission mainly in SDNS and frequently relapsing NS, and even in SRNS.
Risk assessment model for dust explosion in dust removal pipelines using an attention mechanism-based convolutional neural network
Authors: Li Yang , Cui Gaozhi , Han Qinglin , Chen Simeng , Lu Shuaishuai
Published: October 2023

Dust explosions occur frequently during production, transportation, and storage processes involving combustible dusts, with dust explosions caused by de-dusting systems being the most common. To prevent such accidents, we need to perform timely and accurate risk assessment. Therefore, we have developed a risk assessment model for dust explosion of dust duct deposition based on convolutional neural network with an attention mechanism (ConvNext-Tsc). By enhancing the ConvNext block and introducing an attention mechanism, we can more accurately extract the critical features related to the thickness of deposited dust in images of the ducts, achieving a model recognition accuracy of 95.15%. We have verified that the model has a high assessment accuracy in practical applications, which helps to detect potential hazards in dust ducts in time and avoid explosion accidents. The results show that the model has a wide range of application prospects in sedimentary dust explosion risk assessment, with high reliability, practicality, and scientific rigor.
Application of Predictive Model for Efficient Cassava (ManihotEsculanta) Yield in the Face of Climate Variability in Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbuene Emeka Bright , Nwobodo Tonia Nkiru , Aloh Obianuju Gertrude , Okolo Obiageli Jacinta , Ozorme Vivian Amarachi , Achoru Fred , Ogbuka Josiah. C.
Published: October 2023

Climate variability as occasioned by conditions such as rainfall cessation, irregular and over stretched temperatures have considerable impact on crop yield and food security. This study develops a predictive model for cassava yield (manihotesculanta) amidst climate variability. This study utilized data of climate variables and tonnage of cassava yield as well as information from a questionnaire and focus group discussion with farmers. Regression analysis was employed to develop the predictive model for seasonal climate variability and cassava yield. The rainfall and temperature anomalies, decadal change in trend of cassava yield and opinion of farmers on changes in rainfall seasonwas also accessed.The result shows the following relationship between cassava and all the climatic variables: R2 = 0.939; P = 0.00514; Cassava and key climatic variables: R2 = 0.560; P = 0.007. The result of the predictive model equation is y = − 264637 + 0.237–1.073 + 077–4.402 + 2.636 + 5.250–8.658 + 2.054 + 1.956–4.831 + 0.978–0.591 + 11402.6. The result of the predictive model equation indicates that seasonal rainfall, temperature, relative humidity, sunshine hours and radiation parameters are key climatic variables in cassava production. This is supported by rainfall and temperature anomalies which identified that rainfall anomalies range from − 478.5 to 517.8mm while temperature anomalies range from − 1.2 to 2.3 0C over the years. The questionnaire and focus group identified that farmers experienced more late onset and early onset of rain and rainfall cessation over the years. The study made recommendations such as a comprehensive early warning system on climate variability incidence which can be communicated to local farmers by agro-meteorological extension officers.
Seasonal variability on cross-shore profile in meso-tidal settings due to lunar cycle effects in Kuala Terengganu Coast
Authors: Harris Muhammad Fadhli , Nadzri Muhammad Izuan , Yusof Ku Mohd Kalkausar Ku , Razak Wan Amrul Jaahiz Abd , Shukri Mohamad Hakim Mohd , Baharim Nor Bakhiah , Ali Azizi , Ariffin Effi Helmy
Published: October 2023

Kuala Terengganu, one of the coastal zones in Malaysia, is prone to natural hazard factors, such as coastal erosion. The impacts of coastal erosion alternate the morphological structure of the beach in Terengganu. The beach morphological changes were driven by the seasonal monsoon such as Northeast Monsoon (NEM) and Southwest Monsoon (SWM) season. Hence, to understand the short-temporal morphological response of meso-tidal beaches during spring tide events throughout the lunar cycle phase, the study was investigated in Batu Buruk beach, Kuala Terengganu. The tidal cycles, particularly during spring tide (Full Moon and New Moon phases) were collected from five transects starting on October 2020 to October 2021. The monitoring of cross-shore was conducted by using RTK to measure the cross-sectional area and sediment volume changes. The data collected were computed by using profiler 3.2XL software. Numerical modelling such as MIKE-21 was used to simulate tidal elevation within the period of this study. The study showed significant impact by the lunar cycle on sediment gain and loss. The cross-sectional analysis revealed positive sediment gains during the Full Moon. However, the New Moon erosion seemed to take place around the upper swash zone area. This provides an insight into the spring tide and contributes to beach recovery processes.
Synthesis and Characterization of Versatile Polymer Particles for the Adsorption of Bromophenol Blue and Phenol
Authors: Gokkus Kutalmis , Oter Cigdem , Amlani Merilyn , Gur Mahmut , Butun Vural
Published: October 2023

Removing anionic pollutants from water sources remains a major challenge in supramolecular chemistry. Today, cellulose, activated carbon, zeolite, and similar materials, which are widely preferred, have a weak effect against anionic pollutants. Therefore, further modifications are needed for the use of such substances. On the contrary, in this study, highly functional and economical polymeric particles (called GD particles) were synthesized with high yield and did not require further modifications. GD particles were synthesized with glutaraldehyde and diethylenetriamine as monomers for the first time. The structural properties of the synthesized particles were characterized by FT-IR, TGA, and SEM analyses. Then, GD particles were used in the adsorption of anionic Bromophenol blue and phenol. The isotherm, thermodynamic, and kinetic models were used to explain the adsorption mechanism between Bromophenol blue, phenol, and GD particles. Thus, it was determined that the adsorption process between GD particles and Bromophenol blue was chemisorption, and between phenol and GD particles, physical adsorption took place. It was determined that GD particles polymer particles had high adsorption capacities, such as 136.40 mg/g for bromophenol blue and 98.26 mg/g for phenol than natural adsorbents. As a result, it was produced economical, simple, feasible, and functional adsorbents against anionic pollutants.
From recycled PVC and its blends to eco-friendly materials for the footwear industry in Brazil: Insight into the process and evaluation of the mechanical properties
Authors: Marsura Giovanna , Bahú Juliana Otavia , Tovar Laura Plazas , Felisbino Romilda Fernandez , Gomes Eliezer Ladeia
Published: October 2023

Recycling and upcycling waste polyvinyl chloride (PVC) poses a major challenge to the footwear industry due to its short lifecycle and the environmental impact of destructive trends. This study aimed to recycle thermoplastic polyvinyl chloride (rPVC) from used sports shoes of the most varied kind, obtained from a recycling company. The rPVC and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) were melt-blended, prepared by industrial injection molding with different compositions, and the polymer blends were characterized by morphological, thermal, and mechanical means. The overall properties of the recycled polymer blends were improved compared to their parent commercial materials. When TPU and rPVC were blended, the resulting material displayed a remarkable hardness. The abrasion resistance of the TPU/rPVC polymer blends (67/33 and 50/50 wt.%) was enhanced twice compared to PVC, and the rPVC rupture strength (14.73 MPa) was 1.6 times greater than virgin PVC (9.11 MPa). Likewise, The TPU/rPVC blend (50/50% wt.%) also offered significantly greater deformation resistance, indicating that rPVC has a more entangled structure with greater resistance and, thus, greater tensile strength. Polymer blending is accelerating research and development in the footwear industry, and the outcomes have qualified the TPU/rPVC (67/33 and 50/50 wt.%) polymer blends to meet the growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly footwear.
Tropical mobola plum (Parinari curatellifolia): a full characterization of wood and bark within the scope of biorefineries
Authors: Malengue Abílio , Lourenço Ana , Patrício Helena , Costa Ricardo A. , Quilhó Teresa , Gominho Jorge
Published: October 2023

Parinari curatellifolia is the main species used to produce charcoal in Angola. It is chemical, anatomical, and thermal properties were analyzed. The bark is dark grey, rough, and corky, and the wood is brown to yellow-red. Compared to wood, bark fibers presented lower length, lumen, and wall thickness. There is not much difference between height and cell numbers of rays. Sieve tube elements appear solitary or in small groups (2–3 cells), and vessels were of two diameter classes but with diffuse-porous. Bark density was lower than wood (505 kg.m− 3 vs. 580 kg.m− 3). The mean chemical composition from bark vs. wood of P. curatellifolia was ash (3.2% vs. 1.6%), total extractives (12.2% vs. 10.0%), lignin (42.4% vs. 28.4%), and suberin 5.4%. Families identified by GC-MS from DCM extracts were predominated by fatty acids in wood and triterpenoid contents in bark. Bark and wood had higher antioxidant activity in FRAP and DPPH methods. The bark had a monomeric lignin composition richer in guaiacyl-units (25.9% vs. 22.5%) and lower syringyl-units (5.7% vs. 8.5%). Potassium was the most abundant mineral, while the least is cadmium in wood and bark. Regarding thermal properties, bark presented higher moisture content (9.0% vs. 8.0%), ash (3.33% vs. 1.61%), total volatiles (27.5% vs. 20.7%), lower fixed carbon (69.1% vs. 77.7%) and higher heating value (20.9 MJ/kg vs. 19.1 MJ/kg). According to these characteristics, both biomasses are interesting for developing more value-added products besides burning under the context of biorefineries.
HSV-1 infected microglia escape immune response by down-regulating TLR3-mediated innate immune response by GM130
Authors: Liu Jia , Chen Xiqian , Liu Junxian , Zhang Hainan , Lu Wei
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims:
To investigate the mechanism of GM130 regulating the antiviral immune response of TLR3 after HSV-1 infection of microglia cells. To explore the regulatoryof berberine on GM130 and TLR3 mediated immune response.
Method
The vitro model of HSV-1 infection was established by infecting BV2 cells with HSV-1. The protein levels of GM130 and TLR3 were detected by Immunoblotting. The secretion of inflammatory cytokines IFN-β, TNF-α and IL-6 was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The structural changes of Golgi apparatus were observed by immunofluorescence staining and transmission electron microscopy.
Results
Compared with the uninfected group, the Golgi apparatus fragmentation and GM130 in the HSV-1 infected group began to decrease at 6h; the level of TLR3 increased at 6h and began to decrease at 12h; the secretion of inflammatory cytokines IFN-β, TNF-α and IL-6 increased at 6h and 12h, but began to decrease at 24h afterinfection.In uninfected group, the Golgi apparatus was fragmented after GM130 knockdown, and the level of TLR3 was significantly reduced. In the HSV-1 infected group, GM130 knockdown aggravated the fragmentation of Golgi apparatus, and caused the level of TLR3 to further decrease, and the virus titer also increased significantly.In the HSV-1 infected group, over-expression of GM130 alleviated the Golgi fragmentation induced by HSV-1 and partially restored the level of TLR3.After GM130 knockdown in HSV-1 infection group, TLR3 excitant was added to partially restore the level of TLR3 and the secretion level of inflammatory factors.After GM130 over-expression in the HSV-1 infected group, treatment with TLR3 inhibitor TLR3i inhibited TLR3 levels and inflammatory factor secretion. Berberine can protect the Golgi apparatus and reverse the down-regulation of GM130 levels, as well as reverse the down-regulation of TLR3 and its downstream factor factorsafter HSV-1 infection, reducing the virus titer.
Conclusion
In microglia, HSV-1 infection induced Golgi stress response and decreased level of GM130.GM130 affects the secretion levels of inflammatory cytokines IFN-β, TNF-α and IL-6 and viral replication by regulating the levels of TLR3. Berberine protects the Golgi apparatus and enhances TLR3 mediated antiviral immune response.