bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Efficacy and Safety of Intrasphincteric Botulinum Toxin-A Injections in Patients with Non-Spinal Cord Injury-Related Detrusor Sphincter Dyssynergia: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Röthlin Kilian , Anding Ralf , Seifert Helge , Hund-Georgiadis Margret , Möhr Sandra , Walter Matthias
Published: November 2023

Botulinum toxin-A (BoNT-A) injections into the external urethral sphincter are an established therapeutic procedure for reducing bladder outlet obstruction in patients with detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD) due to spinal cord injury (SCI). Given the paucity of data on patients with DSD but without SCI, we aimed to assess the efficacy of intrasphincteric BoNT-A injections in this cohort. For this retrospective study, we screened all patients who underwent their first intrasphincteric BoNT-A injection at our institution between 2015 and 2021. The inclusion criteria were patients aged 18 years or older with neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) and DSD with a maximum detrusor pressure (Pdetmax) of >40 cmH2O, confirmed via video-urodynamic studies (VUDS). The primary outcome was a reduction in Pdetmax and detrusor overactivity leak point pressure (DOLPP) during NDO-associated urinary incontinence posttreatment. The secondary outcome was a reduction in patients relying on indwelling urinary catheters posttreatment. We included 13 eligible patients (all male, median age 31 years, with different underlying neurological disorders, except SCI). All underwent intrasphincteric BoNT-A injections with either 100 (n = 7) or 150 (n = 6) units, respectively. Pdetmax during voiding was significantly reduced posttreatment (median 105 vs. 54 cmH2O, p = 0.006), whereas DOLPP remained unchanged (i.e., median 50 cmH2O). While seven patients relied on indwelling urinary catheters pre-treatment, all were catheter-free posttreatment. Intrasphincteric BoNT-A injections in patients with non-SCI related DSD appear feasible for reducing bladder outlet obstruction to a certain degree in this cohort and subsequently for reducing the rate of indwelling catheters.
Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Associations between Skin Autofluorescence and Tubular Injury Defined by Urinary Excretion of Liver-Type Fatty Acid-Binding Protein in People with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Yamagami Hiroki , Hara Tomoyo , Yasui Saya , Hosoki Minae , Hori Taiki , Kaneko Yousuke , Mitsui Yukari , Kurahashi Kiyoe , Harada Takeshi , Yoshida Sumiko , Nakamura Shingen , Otoda Toshiki , Yuasa Tomoyuki , Kuroda Akio , Endo Itsuro , Matsuhisa Munehide , Abe Masahiro , Aihara Ken-ichi
Published: November 2023

It has previously been unclear whether the accumulation of advanced glycation end products, which can be measured using skin autofluorescence (SAF), has a significant role in diabetic kidney disease (DKD), including glomerular injury and tubular injury. This study was therefore carried out to determine whether SAF correlates with the progression of DKD in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). In 350 Japanese people with T2D, SAF values were measured using an AGE Reader®, and both urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR), as a biomarker of glomerular injury, and urine liver-type fatty acid-binding protein (uLFABP)-to-creatinine ratio (uL-FABPCR), as a biomarker of tubular injury, were estimated as indices of the severity of DKD. Significant associations of SAF with uACR (p < 0.01), log-transformed uACR (p < 0.001), uL-FABPCR (p < 0.001), and log-transformed uL-FABPCR (p < 0.001) were found through a simple linear regression analysis. Although SAF was positively associated with increasing uL-FABPCR (p < 0.05) and increasing log-transformed uL-FABPCR (p < 0.05), SAF had no association with increasing uACR or log-transformed uACR after adjusting for clinical confounding factors. In addition, the annual change in SAF showed a significant positive correlation with annual change in uL-FABPCR regardless of confounding factors (p = 0.026). In conclusion, SAF is positively correlated with uL-FABP but not with uACR in people with T2D. Thus, there is a possibility that SAF can serve as a novel predictor for the development of diabetic tubular injury.
A Systematic Review on the Effectiveness of Antipsychotic Drugs on the Quality of Life of Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Sampogna Gaia , Di Vincenzo Matteo , Giuliani Luigi , Menculini Giulia , Mancuso Emiliana , Arsenio Eleonora , Cipolla Salvatore , Della Rocca Bianca , Martiadis Vassilis , Signorelli Maria Salvina , Fiorillo Andrea
Published: November 2023

Pharmacological antipsychotic drug interventions represent the cornerstone of the management of patients with schizophrenia and other psychotic spectrum disorders. The choice of the “best” treatment should be made on the basis of several clinical domains. However, despite available treatments, the quality of life reported by patients with schizophrenia taking antipsychotics is still very poor, and this outcome is rarely taken into account in trials assessing the efficacy and effectiveness of antipsychotic treatments. Therefore, we performed a systematic review in order to assess the impact of antipsychotic treatment on patients’ quality of life. In particular, we aimed to identify any differences in the improvement in quality of life according to the (a) type of formulation of antipsychotic drugs (i.e., oral vs. depot vs. long-acting injectable); (b) type of the drug (first vs. second vs. third generation); and (c) patients’ clinical characteristics. One hundred and eleven papers were included in the review. The main findings were as follows: (1) quality of life is usually considered a secondary outcome in trials on the efficacy and effectiveness of drugs; (2) second-generation antipsychotics have a more positive effect on quality of life; and (3) long-acting injectable antipsychotics are associated with a more stable improvement in quality of life and with a good safety and tolerability profile. Our systematic review confirms that quality of life represents a central element for selecting the appropriate treatment for people with schizophrenia. In particular, the availability of new treatments with a better tolerability profile, a proven effectiveness on patients’ cognitive and social functioning, and with a more stable blood concentration might represent the appropriate strategy for improving the quality of life of people with schizophrenia.
New Achievements from Molecular Biology and Treatment Options for Refractory/Relapsed Ovarian Cancer—A Systematic Review
Authors: Bachmann Cornelia
Published: November 2023

Ovarian cancer (OC) has a high rate of mortality and is the fifth most common cause of death in females all over the world. The etiology is still unclear. Numerous factors such as smoking, obesity, and unhealthy diet may affect the risk of OC. Having a family history of breast and OC is one of the main risks for developing OC. Mutations of BRCA1/2 are associated with OC risk as well. The histopathological classification of OC reveals the four most common types: serous, clear cell, endometrioid, and mucinous; these are epithelial OC types, and other types are rare. Furthermore, OC can be subdivided into types I and II. Type I tumors are most probably caused by atypical proliferative tumors. Type II tumors include high-grade carcinoma of the serous type, carcinosarcoma, and carcinoma, which are not differentiated and generally originate from tubal intraepithelial carcinoma of the serous type. Typically, type I tumors are present in early stages, usually with good prognosis. Type II tumors are classified as high-grade tumors and are most often diagnosed at advanced FIGO stages with poor prognosis. High-grade serous OC accounts for 90% of serous OC. Tumor heterogeneity aggravates OC treatment. The standard care for primary epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is cytoreductive surgery followed by platinum-based chemotherapy. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy can be used in certain cases followed by cytoreductive surgery. The main prognostic factor is complete tumor resection. However, about 70% of patients relapse. Resistance to chemotherapeutic agents remains a major challenge in EOC treatment, in which many different factors are involved. In recent years, the examination of molecular parameters and their prognostic impact has become increasingly relevant in EOC, and furthermore, the use of immunotherapy has expanded the therapeutic range. As the clinical need is greatest for relapsed patients, this systematic review will focus on recent advances in molecular biology with prognostic and predictive markers and treatment options for recurrent/refractory OC. Inclusion criteria for the review: potential prospective or predictive biomarkers in preclinical or clinical use in relapsed and refractory OC, prognostic impact, clinical and preclinical trials, and immunotherapy. Exclusion criteria for the review: primary OC, no full text or abstract available, not the topic mentioned above, and text not available in English. Risk of bias: the included studies were evaluated descriptively for the topics mentioned above, and data were not compared with each other. The objective is to highlight the molecular mechanisms of the most promising targeted agents under clinical investigation to demonstrate their potential relevance in recurrent/refractory OC.
Current Data and Future Perspectives on Patients with Atrial Fibrillation and Cancer
Authors: De Luca Leonardo , Camilli Massimiliano , Canale Maria Laura , Mistrulli Raffaella , Andreoli Federico , Giacalone Guido , Turazza Fabio Maria , Gabrielli Domenico , Bisceglia Irma
Published: November 2023

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an increasingly recognized comorbidity in patients with cancer. Indeed, cancer patients have a significantly higher incidence of AF than that observed in the general population. A reciprocal relationship between these two diseases has been observed, as much as some assume AF to be a marker for occult cancer screening, especially in older adults. The pathophysiological mechanisms are many and varied, including the underlying pro-inflammatory state, specific treatments (chemo- and radiotherapy), and surgery. The therapeutic management of patients with cancer and AF involves the same rhythm and frequency control strategies as the general population; however, the numerous interactions with chemotherapeutics, which lead to a significant increase in side effects, as well as the extreme fragility of the patient, should be considered. Anticoagulant therapy is also a complex challenge to address, as bleeding and stroke risk scores have not been fully assessed in this subpopulation. Furthermore, in large studies establishing the efficacy of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), cancer patients have been underrepresented. In this review, we elaborate on the mechanisms linking AF to cancer patients with a particular focus on the therapeutic challenges in this population.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Staging Oncologic PET/CT Imaging and Patient Outcome in a Public Healthcare Context: Overview and Follow Up of the First Two Years of the Pandemic
Authors: Kohan Andres , Menon Sumesh , Murad Vanessa , Mirshahvalad Seyed Ali , Kulanthaivelu Roshini , Farag Adam , Ortega Claudia , Metser Ur , Veit-Haibach Patrick
Published: November 2023

To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the diagnosis, staging and outcome of a selected population throughout the first two years of the pandemic, we evaluated oncology patients undergoing PET/CT at our institution. A retrospective population of lung cancer, melanoma, lymphoma and head and neck cancer patients staged using PET/CT during the first 6 months of the years 2019, 2020 and 2021 were included for analysis. The year in which the PET was performed was our exposure variable, and our two main outcomes were stage at the time of the PET/CT and overall survival (OS). A total of 1572 PET/CTs were performed for staging purposes during the first 6 months of 2019, 2020 and 2021. The median age was 66 (IQR 16), and 915 (58%) were males. The most prevalent staged cancer was lung cancer (643, 41%). The univariate analysis of staging at PET/CT and OS by year of PET/CT were not significantly different. The multivariate Cox regression of non-COVID-19 significantly different variables at univariate analysis and the year of PET/CT determined that lung cancer (HR 1.76 CI95 1.23–2.53, p < 0.05), stage III (HR 3.63 CI95 2.21–5.98, p < 0.05), stage IV (HR 11.06 CI95 7.04–17.36, p < 0.05) and age at diagnosis (HR 1.04 CI95 1.02–1.05, p < 0.05) had increased risks of death. We did not find significantly higher stages or reduced OS when assessing the year PET/CT was performed. Furthermore, OS was not significantly modified by the year patients were staged, even when controlled for non-COVID-19 significant variables (age, type of cancer, stage and gender).
The Impact of HER2-Low Expression on Oncologic Outcomes in Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Park Woong Ki , Nam Seok Jin , Kim Seok Won , Lee Jeong Eon , Yu Jonghan , Ryu Jai Min , Chae Byung Joo
Published: November 2023

Breast cancer is a prevalent malignancy with increasing incidence, particularly in Asian countries. Classification based on estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status is pivotal in determining treatment. Recent advances have challenged the traditional dichotomy in HER2 classification, prompting investigation into the HER2-low subtype’s characteristics and outcomes. This retrospective study analyzed 10,186 non-metastatic hormone receptor (HR)-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer cases treated from 2008 to 2020. Data encompassed clinical, pathological, and treatment information. Oncologic outcomes included disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS). In total, 56.5% were HER2-low cases. Differences in patient characteristics were noted, with more BRCA1/2 mutations and higher mastectomy rates in the HER2-low group (p = 0.002, p < 0.001, respectively). Fewer received adjuvant chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and fewer histologic and nuclear grade 1 tumors were identified (all p < 0.001). With a median follow-up of 64 months (range: 13–174), HER2-low cases exhibited better DFS, OS, and BCSS than HER2-0 cases (p = 0.012, p = 0.013, and p = 0.013, respectively). Notably, the prognosis differed between premenopausal and postmenopausal subgroups, with BCSS benefitting premenopausal patients (p = 0.047) and DFS and OS benefitting postmenopausal patients in the HER2-low group (p = 0.004, p = 0.009, respectively). Multivariate analysis confirmed HER2 status as an independent predictor of these outcomes (p = 0.010, p = 0.008, and p = 0.014, respectively). This extensive single-center study elucidates the favorable prognosis associated with HER2-low status in HR-positive breast cancer. However, this effect differs among premenopausal and postmenopausal patients, necessitating further research into the underlying tumor biology.
The Ying and Yang of Ganglioside Function in Cancer
Authors: Schengrund Cara-Lynne
Published: November 2023

The plethora of information about the expression of cancer cell-associated gangliosides, their role(s) in signal transduction, and their potential usefulness in the development of cancer treatments makes this an appropriate time to review these enigmatic glycosphingolipids. Evidence, reflecting the work of many, indicates that (1) expression of specific gangliosides, not generally found in high concentrations in most normal human cells, can be linked to certain types of cancer. (2) Gangliosides can affect the ability of cells to interact either directly or indirectly with growth factor receptors, thereby changing such things as a cell’s mobility, rate of proliferation, and metastatic ability. (3) Anti-ganglioside antibodies have been tested, with some success, as potential treatments for certain cancers. (4) Cancer-associated gangliosides shed into the circulation can (a) affect immune cell responsiveness either positively or negatively, (b) be considered as diagnostic markers, and (c) be used to look for recurrence. (5) Cancer registries enable investigators to evaluate data from sufficient numbers of patients to obtain information about potential therapies. Despite advances that have been made, a discussion of possible approaches to identifying additional treatment strategies to inhibit metastasis, responsible for the majority of deaths of cancer patients, as well as for treating therapy-resistant tumors, is included.
Bisphosphonates and Their Connection to Dental Procedures: Exploring Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaws
Authors: Lee Emily Sunny , Tsai Meng-Chen , Lee Jing-Xuan , Wong Chuki , Cheng You-Ning , Liu An-Chi , Liang You-Fang , Fang Chih-Yuan , Wu Chia-Yu , Lee I-Ta
Published: November 2023

Bisphosphonates are widely used to treat osteoporosis and malignant tumors due to their effectiveness in increasing bone density and inhibiting bone resorption. However, their association with bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (BRONJ) following invasive dental procedures poses a significant challenge. This review explores the functions, mechanisms, and side effects of bisphosphonates, emphasizing their impact on dental procedures. Dental patients receiving bisphosphonate treatment are at higher risk of BRONJ, necessitating dentists’ awareness of these risks. Topical bisphosphonate applications enhance dental implant success, by promoting osseointegration and preventing osteoclast apoptosis, and is effective in periodontal treatment. Yet, systemic administration (intravenous or intraoral) significantly increases the risk of BRONJ following dental procedures, particularly in inflamed conditions. Prevention and management of BRONJ involve maintaining oral health, considering alternative treatments, and careful pre-operative and post-operative follow-ups. Future research could focus on finding bisphosphonate alternatives with fewer side effects or developing combinations that reduce BRONJ risk. This review underscores the need for further exploration of bisphosphonates and their implications in dental procedures.
Probiotic and Muscadine Grape Extract Interventions Shift the Gut Microbiome and Improve Metabolic Parameters in Female C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Newman Tiffany M. , Wilson Adam S. , Clear Kenysha Y. J. , Tallant E. Ann , Gallagher Patricia E. , Cook Katherine L.
Published: November 2023

Obesity and Western-like diet consumption leads to gut microbiome dysbiosis, which is associated with the development of cardio-metabolic diseases and poor health outcomes. The objective of this study was to reduce Western diet-mediated gut microbial dysbiosis, metabolic dysfunction, and systemic inflammation through the administration of a novel combined intervention strategy (oral probiotic bacteria supplements and muscadine grape extract (MGE)). To do so, adult female C57BL/6 mice were fed a low-fat control or Western-style diet and sub-grouped into diet alone, probiotic intervention, antibiotic treatments, MGE supplementation, a combination of MGE and probiotics, or MGE and antibiotics for 13 weeks. Mouse body weight, visceral adipose tissue (VAT), liver, and mammary glands (MG) were weighed at the end of the study. Fecal 16S rRNA sequencing was performed to determine gut bacterial microbiome populations. Collagen, macrophage, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in the VAT and MG tissue were examined by immunohistochemistry. Adipocyte diameter was measured in VAT. Immunohistochemistry of intestinal segments was used to examine villi length, muscularis thickness, and goblet cell numbers. We show that dietary interventions in Western diet-fed mice modulated % body weight gain, visceral adiposity, MG weight, gut microbial populations, and inflammation. Intervention strategies in both diets effectively reduced VAT and MG fibrosis, VAT and MG macrophages, adipocyte diameter, and VAT and MG MCP-1. Interventions also improved intestinal health parameters. In conclusion, dietary intervention with MGE and probiotics modulates several microbial, inflammatory, and metabolic factors reducing poor health outcomes associated with Western diet intake.
Acne Transcriptomics: Fundamentals of Acne Pathogenesis and Isotretinoin Treatment
Authors: Melnik Bodo C.
Published: November 2023

This review on acne transcriptomics allows for deeper insights into the pathogenesis of acne and isotretinoin’s mode of action. Puberty-induced insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), insulin and androgen signaling activate the kinase AKT and mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). A Western diet (hyperglycemic carbohydrates and milk/dairy products) also co-stimulates AKT/mTORC1 signaling. The AKT-mediated phosphorylation of nuclear FoxO1 and FoxO3 results in their extrusion into the cytoplasm, a critical switch which enhances the transactivation of lipogenic and proinflammatory transcription factors, including androgen receptor (AR), sterol regulatory element-binding transcription factor 1 (SREBF1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), but reduces the FoxO1-dependent expression of GATA binding protein 6 (GATA6), the key transcription factor for infundibular keratinocyte homeostasis. The AKT-mediated phosphorylation of the p53-binding protein MDM2 promotes the degradation of p53. In contrast, isotretinoin enhances the expression of p53, FoxO1 and FoxO3 in the sebaceous glands of acne patients. The overexpression of these proapoptotic transcription factors explains isotretinoin’s desirable sebum-suppressive effect via the induction of sebocyte apoptosis and the depletion of BLIMP1(+) sebocyte progenitor cells; it also explains its adverse effects, including teratogenicity (neural crest cell apoptosis), a reduced ovarian reserve (granulosa cell apoptosis), the risk of depression (the apoptosis of hypothalamic neurons), VLDL hyperlipidemia, intracranial hypertension and dry skin.
Interaction between Akkermansia muciniphila and Diet Is Associated with Proinflammatory Index in School-Aged Children
Authors: Ayala-García Juan Carlos , García-Vera Alba Mariel , Lagunas-Martínez Alfredo , Orbe-Orihuela Yaneth Citlalli , Castañeda-Márquez Ana Cristina , Díaz-Benítez Cinthya Estefhany , Bermúdez-Morales Víctor Hugo , Cruz Miguel , Bahena-Román Margarita , Burguete-García Ana Isabel
Published: November 2023

Background: Imbalance in the intestinal microbiota can lead to chronic low-grade inflammation. Diet may influence this association. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the interaction between Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) and dietary patterns using a proinflammatory index. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with school-aged children. We quantified the relative abundance (RA) of A. muciniphila in feces using a polymerase chain reaction. We collected dietary information through employing a food frequency questionnaire and generated dietary patterns using principal component analysis. We generated a proinflammatory index from serum levels of interleukin-6, interleukin-10, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and adiponectin validated by receptor operating characteristic curves. We evaluated the association between A. muciniphila and the proinflammatory index using logistic regression, including an interaction term with dietary patterns. Results: We found that children with a low RA of A. muciniphila and a high intake of simple carbohydrates and saturated fats had increased odds of being high on the proinflammatory index. However, when the consumption of this dietary pattern is low, children with a low RA of A. muciniphila had decreased odds of being high on the proinflammatory index. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the simultaneous presence of A. muciniphila and diet have a more significant impact on the presence of being high on the proinflammatory index compared to both factors separately.
Experimental and Numerical Investigations on the Parameters of a Synchronous Machine Prototype with High-Temperature Superconductor Armature Windings
Authors: Menana Hocine , Statra Yazid
Published: November 2023

In their applications in electrical machines, high-temperature superconductors (HTSs) are mainly used as inductors in synchronous machines due to the AC losses which can lead to high cryogenic costs. In this work, we show the possibility of their use as armature windings, handling some precautions. The approach is based on the combined use of modeling and measurements. The construction and the preliminary tests of a handmade prototype of an axial field HTS synchronous machine are presented. Several tests have been conducted at liquid nitrogen temperature. The measurements have been confirmed by modeling results. The preliminary tests on the prototype, in both modeling and measurements, are very promising.
Analysis of Depigmenting Substances of Interest (Hydroquinone, Kojic Acid, and Clobetasol Propionate) Contained in Lightening Cosmetic Products Marketed in Burkina Faso
Authors: Yaméogo Boumbéwendin Gérard Josias , Ilboudo Lydiane Sandra B. A. , Ouédraogo Nomtondo Amina , Belem Mohamed , Nikiema Ouéogo , Goumbri Bertrand W. , Sombié Bavouma Charles , Zimé-Diawara Hermine , Kabré Elie , Semdé Rasmané
Published: November 2023

The practice of voluntary depigmentation is still prevalent in Africa, with a wide range of lightening cosmetics used. Our objective was to research and quantify three regulated and/or prohibited depigmenting ingredients present in lightening cosmetics sold in Ouagadougou. Twenty-nine lightening cosmetic samples were collected from vendors and HPLC analysis was subsequently conducted to identify and measure the concentrations of hydroquinone, clobetasol propionate, and kojic acid. The presence of hydroquinone was indicated on the label of 13.79% of the products, while 51.72% contained it after analysis. Furthermore, none of the products mentioned a concentration of hydroquinone exceeding 2.00%, even though 27.58% of them contained high concentrations. For clobetasol propionate, its presence was stated on the labels of 13.79% of the products, while 31.03% contained it. One sample had a clobetasol content exceeding 0.05%, although none mentioned a concentration higher than this value. Finally, while 24.13% of the samples claimed to contain kojic acid, only 17.24% did. We also observed that 41.38% of the samples contained combinations of two depigmenting ingredients investigated, with a predominance of the hydroquinone + clobetasol propionate (27.38%). These results demonstrate that manufacturers’ declarations regarding the compositions of active ingredients in lightening cosmetics can sometimes be deceptive.
Secure Groups for Threshold Cryptography and Number-Theoretic Multiparty Computation
Authors: Schoenmakers Berry , Segers Toon
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we introduce secure groups as a cryptographic scheme representing finite groups together with a range of operations, including the group operation, inversion, random sampling, and encoding/decoding maps. We construct secure groups from oblivious group representations combined with cryptographic protocols, implementing the operations securely. We present both generic and specific constructions, in the latter case specifically for number-theoretic groups commonly used in cryptography. These include Schnorr groups (with quadratic residues as a special case), Weierstrass and Edwards elliptic curve groups, and class groups of imaginary quadratic number fields. For concreteness, we develop our protocols in the setting of secure multiparty computation based on Shamir secret sharing over a finite field, abstracted away by formulating our solutions in terms of an arithmetic black box for secure finite field arithmetic or for secure integer arithmetic. Secure finite field arithmetic suffices for many groups, including Schnorr groups and elliptic curve groups. For class groups, we need secure integer arithmetic to implement Shanks’ classical algorithms for the composition of binary quadratic forms, which we will combine with our adaptation of a particular form reduction algorithm due to Agarwal and Frandsen. As a main result of independent interest, we also present an efficient protocol for the secure computation of the extended greatest common divisor. The protocol is based on Bernstein and Yang’s constant-time 2-adic algorithm, which we adapt to work purely over the integers. This yields a much better approach for multiparty computation but raises a new concern about the growth of the Bézout coefficients. By a careful analysis, we are able to prove that the Bézout coefficients in our protocol will never exceed 3max(a,b) in absolute value for inputs a and b. We have integrated secure groups in the Python package MPyC and have implemented threshold ElGamal and threshold DSA in terms of secure groups. We also mention how our results support verifiable multiparty computation, allowing parties to jointly create a publicly verifiable proof of correctness for the results accompanying the results of a secure computation.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in Marine Mammal Research: A Review of Current Applications and Challenges
Authors: Álvarez-González Miguel , Suarez-Bregua Paula , Pierce Graham J. , Saavedra Camilo
Published: November 2023

Research on the ecology and biology of marine mammal populations is necessary to understand ecosystem dynamics and to support conservation management. Emerging monitoring tools and instruments offer the opportunity to obtain such information in an affordable and effective way. In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become an important tool in the study of marine mammals. Here, we reviewed 169 research articles using UAVs to study marine mammals, published up until December 2022. The goals of these studies included estimating the number of individuals in populations and groups via photo-identification, determining biometrics and body condition through photogrammetry, collecting blow samples, and studying behavioural patterns. UAVs can be a valuable, non-invasive, and useful tool for a wide range of applications in marine mammal research. However, it is important to consider some limitations of this technology, mainly associated with autonomy, resistance to the marine environment, and data processing time, which could probably be overcome in the near future.
Burn Patient Perspectives on Disability Weights and the Philosophy of Disability: A Gap in the Literature
Authors: Won Paul , Celie Karel-Bart , Rutter Cindy , Gillenwater T. Justin , Yenikomshian Haig A.
Published: November 2023

Background: Disability-adjusted life years (DALY) have a ubiquitous presence in academic global health, including attempts to understand the global burden of burn injuries. Objective: The present scoping review aimed to examine whether disability weights (DWs) were informed by burn patient perspectives and secondarily to determine whether literature indicates which of the three most common philosophical models of disability best aligns with burn patient experiences. Methods: A review of six databases was conducted and The Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) checklist was utilized. Results: Out of a total of 764 articles, zero studies solicited patient perspectives of DWs. Four articles contained data that could be extrapolated to patient perspectives on disability. All articles utilized semi-structured interviews of burn survivors and reported thematic elements including return to work, self-image, and social integration. Patients reported similar themes that burn injuries were disabling injuries and instrumentally detrimental, with modulation based on the patient’s social circumstances. Conclusions: This scoping review highlights a significant gap in literature. First, no studies were found directly investigating burn patient perspectives on burn DWs. Current DWs have been derived from expert opinions with limited input from patients. Second, the limited primary patient data gleaned from this review suggest patients consider their injuries as instrumentally detrimental, which aligns most closely with the welfarist view of disability. More explicit investigations into the philosophical model of disability best aligning with burn patient experiences are needed to ground the health economics of burns in sound theory.
Enhancing Anaerobic Digestion with an UASB Reactor of the Winery Wastewater for Producing Volatile Fatty Acid Effluent Enriched in Caproic Acid
Authors: Ibáñez-López M. Eugenia , Frison Nicola , Bolzonella David , García-Morales José L.
Published: November 2023

The production of Volatile Fatty Acids (VFAs) from wastewater holds significant importance in the context of biorefinery concepts due to their potential as valuable precursors for various bio-based processes. Therefore, the primary objective of this research is to investigate the fermentation of Winery Wastewater (WW) in an Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) reactor to generate VFAs, with particular emphasis on Caproic Acid (HCa) production and the dynamics of the microbiota, under varying Hydraulic Retention Time (HRT) periods (8, 5, and 2.5 h). The change from an 8 h to a 5 h HRT period resulted in an approximately 20% increase in total VFA production. However, when the HRT was further reduced to 2.5 h, total VFA production decreased by approximately 50%. Concerning the specific production of HCa, expressed in grams of Chemical Oxygen Demand (gCOD), the maximum yield was observed at around 0.9 gCOD/L for a 5-h HRT. Microbial population analysis revealed that Eubacteria outnumbered Archaea across all HRTs. Population dynamics analysis indicated that the Firmicutes Phylum was predominant in all cases. Within this phylum, bacteria such as Clostridium kluyveri and Clostridium sp., known for their ability to produce HCa, were identified. Based on the results obtained, the application of the UASB reactor for WW treatment, within the biorefinery framework, has the potential to provide a practical alternative for HCa production when operated with a 5 h HRT.
Functional and Probiotic Characterization of Newly Isolated Strains from Infant Feces and Breast Milk
Authors: Hyrslova Ivana , Drab Vladimir , Cihlar Jaromir , Krausova Gabriela , Mrvikova Iva , Kana Antonin , Stetina Jiri , Musilova Sarka
Published: November 2023

Infant feces and breast milk are sources of lactic acid bacteria with interesting functional and technological properties. Therefore, we focused on the isolation and characterization of new potential probiotic strains from infant feces and breast milk. Nine strains were identified based on 16S rRNA sequences of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, Limosilactobacillus reuteri, and Lactobacillus gasseri. Subsequently, these isolates were evaluated for their safety (antibiotic resistance, hemolytic, and enzymatic activity) and functional properties (gastrointestinal condition tolerance, hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation, adhesion to Caco-2/HT-29 cell lines, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, and the production of exopolysaccharides). All the isolates were non-hemolytic and resistant to streptomycin, kanamycin, and vancomycin. They also demonstrated antimicrobial activity against five selected pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella sp., and Enterococcus faecalis) and the production of exopolysaccharides. Isolates Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus S1F and S6C together with Lactobacillus gasseri M8C showed the highest ability to survive 3.0 g/L of bile salts and a good adhesion property, which is important for gastrointestinal tract (GIT) colonization or the inhibition of pathogens. Following in vivo characterization, three strains S1F and S6C from infant feces, and M6C from breast milk, showed probiotic properties with potential applications in the food industry.
Sentiment Analysis of Chinese Product Reviews Based on Fusion of DUAL-Channel BiLSTM and Self-Attention
Authors: Yuan Ye , Wang Wang , Wen Guangze , Zheng Zikun , Zhuang Zhemin
Published: November 2023

Product reviews provide crucial information for both consumers and businesses, offering insights needed before purchasing a product or service. However, existing sentiment analysis methods, especially for Chinese language, struggle to effectively capture contextual information due to the complex semantics, multiple sentiment polarities, and long-term dependencies between words. In this paper, we propose a sentiment classification method based on the BiLSTM algorithm to address these challenges in natural language processing. Self-Attention-CNN BiLSTM (SAC-BiLSTM) leverages dual channels to extract features from both character-level embeddings and word-level embeddings. It combines BiLSTM and Self-Attention mechanisms for feature extraction and weight allocation, aiming to overcome the limitations in mining contextual information. Experiments were conducted on the onlineshopping10cats dataset, which is a standard corpus of e-commerce shopping reviews available in the ChineseNlpCorpus 2018. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed algorithm, with Recall, Precision, and F1 scores reaching 0.9409, 0.9369, and 0.9404, respectively.
A Study of the Degradation Mechanism of Ladder-like Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane via Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Xiao Shengdong , Cui Xuemei , Iroh Jude O.
Published: November 2023

As a result of global warming, fire outbreaks are becoming a common occurrence. There is, therefore, the need for an effective, low-cost and environmentally friendly fire-retardant material. Amine-terminated polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane, ATL-POSS, is a low-cost, water-soluble, fire-retardant material based on aminosilane coupling agents. Because of its solubility in water, it can serve as a general-purpose fire retardant. The ATL-POSS nanoparticles reported in this paper have high char retentions of about 75 and 54% in nitrogen and air atmospheres, respectively. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to determine the phase transition temperatures. It was shown that ATL-POSS is an amorphous material. The thermal stability and rate of decomposition of POSS was determined by using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The TGA derivative curves (DTA) show that the degradation of ladder-like POSS occurred in multiple stages and that the rate of degradation is affected by the heating rate. The mechanism of decomposition of ATL-POSS was determined by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, FTIR. The FTIR technique was chosen for this study because of its accessibility and ability to distinguish ladder-like POSS from the cage-type POSS structures. The FTIR spectra showed that the -Si-O-Si- cyclic structure was the predominant structure of POSS. By analyzing the FTIR spectra of the thermally treated POSS residues, obtained at the specified test temperatures, the detailed degradation mechanism of POSS was inferred. It was shown that the terminal silanol group was degraded at test temperatures below 400 °C. Silica was shown to be the final product of the pyrolysis of POSS. The presence of the FTIR transmission peaks at 1000 and 1100 cm−1, due to asymmetric vertical and horizontal stretching vibrations of the Si-O-Si, respectively, was the key evidence used to infer the ladder-like structure of POSS.
Disturbance Observer-Based Event-Triggered Adaptive Command Filtered Backstepping Control for Fractional-Order Nonlinear Systems and Its Application
Authors: Song Shuai , Song Xiaona , Tejado Inés
Published: November 2023

This paper considers the disturbance observer-based event-triggered adaptive fuzzy tracking control issue for a class of fractional-order nonlinear systems (FONSs) with quantized signals and unknown disturbances. To improve the disturbance rejection ability, a fractional-order nonlinear disturbance observer (FONDO) is designed to estimate the unknown composite disturbances. Furthermore, by combining an improved fractional-order command-filtered backstepping control technique and an event-triggered control mechanism, an event-triggered adaptive fuzzy quantized control scheme is established, which guarantees the desired tracking performance can be achieved even in the presence of network constraint. Finally, the validity and superiority of the theoretic results are verified by a fractional-order horizontal platform system.
Fixed-Time Distributed Time-Varying Optimization for Nonlinear Fractional-Order Multiagent Systems with Unbalanced Digraphs
Authors: Wang Kun , Gong Ping , Ma Zhiyao
Published: November 2023

This paper investigates the problem of fixed-time distributed time-varying optimization of a nonlinear fractional-order multiagent system (FOMAS) over a weight-unbalanced directed graph (digraph), where the heterogeneous unknown nonlinear functions and disturbances are involved. The aim is to cooperatively minimize a convex time-varying global cost function produced by a sum of time-varying local cost functions within a fixed time, where each time-varying local cost function does not have to be convex. Using a three-step design procedure, a fully distributed fixed-time optimization algorithm is constructed to achieve the objective. The first step is to design a fully distributed fixed-time estimator to estimate some centralized optimization terms within a fixed time T0. The second step is to develop a novel discontinuous fixed-time sliding mode algorithm with nominal controller to derive all the agents to the sliding-mode surface within a fixed time T1, and meanwhile the dynamics of each agent is described by a single-integrator MAS with nominal controller. In the third step, a novel estimator-based fully distributed fixed-time nominal controller for the single-integrator MAS is presented to guarantee all agents reach consensus within a fixed time T2, and afterwards minimize the convex time-varying global cost function within a fixed time T3. The upper bound of each fixed time Tm(m=0,1,2,3) is given explicitly, which is independent of the initial states. Finally, a numerical example is provided to validate the results.
Plasmodial Transcription Factors and Chromatin Modifiers as Drug Targets
Authors: Sepulveda Luisa Fernanda Ortega , de Oliveira Gabriela Mendes , Chagas Elaine Hellen Nunes , Wild Nele , da Paz Franciarli Silva , Wrenger Carsten , Wunderlich Gerhard
Published: November 2023

The complex life cycle of the malaria parasite Plasmodium requires the parasite to adequately adapt to different conditions. For this reason, Plasmodium strictly controls its gene expression, and given its evolutionary distance from the human host, the involved factors may figure as attractive potential drug targets. In recent years, several unique transcription factors and chromatin modifiers have been identified and partially characterized in Plasmodium falciparum and in the murine species P. yoelii and P. berghei. This review unites data from studies focusing on drug development against enigmatic plant-like AP2-transcription factors and chromatin modifiers, such as histone acetyl transferases and deacetylases and histone methyltransferases and demethylases. Considering the reported success of inhibition of both factors, these may be included as targets to effectively combat the parasite by perturbing its control of gene expression.
Sol-Gel Functionalized Polyurethane Foam-Packed Mini-Column as an Efficient Solid Extractor for the Rapid and Ultra-Trace Detection of Textile Dyes in Water
Authors: Ghandourah Mohammed A. , Orif Mohammad I. , Al-Farawati Radwan K. , El-Shahawi Mohammad S. , Abu-Zied Ramadan H.
Published: November 2023

Textile dyes widely used in industrial products are known as a major threat to human health and water ecological security. On the other hand, sol gel represents a principal driver of the adoption of dispersive solid-phase microextractors (d-µ SPME) for pollutants residues in water. Thus, the current study reports a new and highly rapid and highly efficient hybrid sol-gel-based sponge polyurethane foam as a dispersive solid-phase microextractor (d-µ-SPME) platform packed mini-column for complete preconcentration and subsequent spectrophotometric detection of eosin Y textile dye in wastewater. The unique porous structure of the prepared sol-gel immobilized polyurethane foams (sol-gel/PUF) has suggested its use for the complete removal of eosin Y dye (EY) from water. In the mini-column, the number (N) of plates, the height equivalent to the theoretical plates (HETP), the critical capacity (CC), and the breakthrough capacities (BC) of the hybrid sol-gel-treated polyurethane foams towards EY dye were determined via the breakthrough capacity curve at various flow rates. Under the optimum condition using the matrix match strategy, the linear range of 0.01–5 µg L−1, LODs and LOQs in the range of 0.006 µg L−1, and 0.01 µg L−1 for wastewater were achieved. The intra-day and inter-day precisions were evaluated at two different concentration levels (0.05 and 5 μg L−1 of dye) on the same day and five distinct days, respectively. The analytical utility of the absorbents packed in pulses and mini-columns to extract and recover EY dye was attained by 98.94%. The column could efficiently remove different dyes from real industrial effluents, and hence the sol-gel/PUF is a good competitor for commercial applications. The findings of this research work have strong potential in the future to be used in selecting the most suitable lightweight growing medium for a green roof based on stakeholder requirements. Therefore, this study has provided a convenient pathway for the preparation of compressible and reusable sponge materials from renewable biomass for efficient removal of EY from the water environment.
Teleseismic P-Wave Attenuation Beneath the Arabian Plate
Authors: Merghelani Talal , Kawahara Jun , Miyashita Kaoru , Zahran Hani
Published: November 2023

In order to prove that the Arabian Plate is a tectonically active region even in its shield areas, we obtained the attenuation structure tp* of the upper mantle beneath the Arabian Plate by applying the spectral inversion method to the newly established seismic network in Saudi Arabia operated by the Saudi Geological Survey (SGS). The data sets consisted of good quality vertical components of the teleseismic events for more than 4400 spectral ratios. The result showed significant and diverse tp* structures between the eastern and western regions of the Arabian Plate. High tp* was the predominant feature underneath the Arabian Shield (western Arabia) and low tp* within the Arabian Platform (eastern Arabia). The obtained tP* values range from −1.0 s to 1.0 s. The observed high tp* patterns followed a line from north to south through the Arabian Shield along the Red Sea margin. The high tp* distribution closely followed the volcanic region, in particular the Makka–Madina–Nafud Volcanic (MMNV) line. The maximum tp* values were observed in the southern region of the Arabian Shield, at the southern part of the Red Sea, where the African and Arabian Plates diverge. The observed high tp* will be attributed to the previously revealed low-velocity anomaly and thermal activities beneath the Arabian Shield, and it is also correlated with the topography (high elevation) in the region.
Surgical Treatment for Early Cervical Cancer in the HPV Era: State of the Art
Authors: Palumbo Mario , Della Corte Luigi , Ronsini Carlo , Guerra Serena , Giampaolino Pierluigi , Bifulco Giuseppe
Published: November 2023

Cervical cancer (CC) is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. The aim of this study is to focus on the state of the art of CC prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment and, within the latter, the role of surgery in the various stages of the disease with a focus on the impact of the LACC study (Laparoscopic Approach to Cervical Cancer trial) on the scientific debate and clinical practice. We have discussed the controversial application of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for tumors < 2 cm and the possibility of fertility-sparing surgery on young women desirous of pregnancy. This analysis provides support for surgeons in the choice of better management, including patients with a desire for offspring and the need for sentinel node biopsy (SNB) rather than pelvic lymphadenectomy for tumors < 4 cm, and without suspicious lymph nodes’ involvement on imaging. Vaccines and early diagnosis of pre-cancerous lesions are the most effective public health tool to tackle cervical cancer worldwide.