bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modified CPL Models for Dark Energy and Observational Constraints
Authors: Sardar Gopal , Chakraborty Subenoy
Published: September 2023

In the present work we consider two modified Chevallier-Polarski-Linder (CPL) models in the background of homogeneous and isotropic FLRW space-time, namely (i) the generalized CPL model (Model I) and (ii) the logarithmic form of the the equation of state for the dark energy. From the observational data sets ((Pantheon+)+BAO+HST), we find that at the present epoch (redshift $z=0$), the equation of state for the dark energy converges almost at the same value $\omega_{fld}\approx -0.86$ and the variation of $\omega_{fld}(z)$ with respect to the redshift parameter is very small for both models.

we also find that the present value of the Hubble parameter $H_0$ is almost same for both the models.

Finally, we compare the models in the light of Akaike, Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) and Bayesian Evidence. However, we find that Model II is better compared to the Model I from the estimated value of the deceleration parameter.
The Surface Modification of ZrO2 Film by Zr/Nb Ions Implantation and Its Theoretical Explanation
Authors: Gao Yuan , Wang Luyao , Li Dejun
Published: September 2023

Zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) possesses numerous advantages such as high mechanical strength, low friction coefficient, excellent optical properties, and extended lifespan. Consequently, ZrO2 has a broad research foundation and practical significance in functional films and wear-resistant coatings. However, it suffers from brittleness and low ductility when used as a bio-coating material. In this study, a Ta/ZrO2 film was fabricated on Si (100) and titanium alloy substrates using a magnetron sputtering system, with tantalum (Ta) serving solely as a transition layer. Subsequently, Zr and Nb ions were implanted into the film at varying doses but with consistent energy levels. The analysis focused on the film's microstructure, mechanical properties, hydrophilicity, and corrosion resistance. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in the hydrophilicity and corrosion resistance of the ZrO2 film following the implantation of Zr and Nb ions. First-principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) principles indicated that, with increasing doping concentrations of Zr and Nb in the ZrO2 model, the stability of the model increased gradually, thereby enhancing its corrosion resistance.
The Gut Microbiome as a Biomarker and Therapeutic Target in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Gok Yavuz Betul , Datar Saumil , Chamseddine Shadi , Mohamed Yehia I. , LaPelusa Michael , Lee Sunyoung S. , Hu Zishuo Ian , Koay Eugene J. , Tran Cao Hop S. , Jalal Prasun Kumar , Daniel-MacDougall Carrie , Hassan Manal , Duda Dan G. , Amin Hesham M. , Kaseb Ahmed O.
Published: September 2023

The microbiome is pivotal in maintaining health and influencing disease by modulating essential inflammatory and immune responses. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), ranking as the third most common cause of cancer-related fatalities globally, is influenced by the gut microbiome through bidirectional interactions between the gut and liver, as evidenced in both mouse models and human studies. Consequently, biomarkers based on gut microbiota represent promising non-invasive tools for the early detection of HCC. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that the composition of the gut microbiota may play a role in the efficacy of immunotherapy in different types of cancer, thus it could be used as a predictive biomarker. In this review, we will dissect the gut microbiome's role as a potential predictive and diagnostic marker in HCC and evaluate the latest progress in leveraging the gut microbiome as a novel therapeutic avenue for HCC patients, with a special emphasis on immunotherapy.
The Novel Tetra-specific Drug C-192, Conjugated Using UniStac, Alleviates Non-alcoholic Steatosis Hepatitis in MCD Diet-induced Mouse Model
Authors: Kim Ji-Hye , Chang Nakho , Kim Yunki , Lee Jaehyun , Oh Daeseok , Choi Jaeyoung , Kim Onyou , Kim Su-Jin , Choi Myongho , Lee Junyeob , Lee Junghwa , Kim Jungyul , Cho Minji , Kim Minsu , Lee KwangHwan , Hwang Dukhyun , Sa Jason K. , Park Sungjin , Baek Seungjae , Im Daeseong
Published: September 2023

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a complex disease resulting from chronic liver injury associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and inflammation. Recently, multi-target drugs have been proposed to treat complex diseases including NASH; however, their manufacturing pro-cesses remain time- and cost-intensive and inefficient. Therefore, to overcome these limitations, we developed UniStac, a novel enzyme-mediated conjugation platform for multi-specific drug development. UniStac demonstrated high conjugation yields, optimal thermal stabilities, and robust biological activities. Through such platform, we designed a tetra-specific compound, C-192, targeting Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), Glucagon (GCG), Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), and Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) simultaneously for the treatment of NASH. The biological activity and treatment efficacy of C-192 were confirmed both in vitro and in vivo using a methionine–choline-deficient (MCD) diet-induced mouse model. C-192 exhibited profound therapeutic efficacies compared to conventional drugs, including liraglutide and dulaglutide. C-192 significantly improved alanine transaminase levels, triglyceride accumula-tion, and the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease activity score. Our results collectively provide clin-ical feasibility of UniStac for developing multi-specific drugs, and C-192 as an innovative thera-peutic opportunity for severe NASH, as it exerts synergistic effects across multiple targets.
Online Resistance Training for Anthropometric Parameters and Muscle Strength in Overweight Female Adolescents
Authors: Na Nongkhai Marisa Poomiphak , Sulaiman Raja Syed Tengku , Kumar Rajesh , Pradittakarn Worawit , Narkkul Udomsak , Matyakhan Tatchakrit
Published: September 2023

Resistance training is beneficial to adults for improving muscle strength and reducing the body composition. Nevertheless, little is known regarding online resistance training on anthropometric parameters and muscular strength (MS) in overweight female adolescents. This study aimed to examine the effects of online resistance training on anthropometric parameters and muscular strength (MS) in overweight female adolescents. This prospective, single-center, single-blinded, randomized controlled study included 60 overweight female adolescents who were divided into a control group (n=30) and an intervention group (n=30). The intervention group performed online resistance training, which focused on body weight training of 12 components (4 sets, 12 repetitions) for 45 min, three times per week, for 12 weeks. The intensity of training was 65–75%. Anthropometric parameters, including body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), body circumference measurements (BCM), and muscle strength (MS), were assessed. All parameters were measured at weeks 0, 8, and 12. Within-group and between-group comparisons were performed. The results revealed improvements in MS, BW, BMI, and BCM in the intervention group. However, chest circumference was not significant. These findings suggest that online resistance training was effective in improving MS and reducing the body composition and circumference.
Optimising Patient Flow from the Perspectives of Key Stakeholders
Authors: Van Dam Pieter Jan , Dwyer Mitchell , O'Reilly Malgorzata , Prior Sarah Jane , Montgomery James , Turner Richard
Published: September 2023

Background: Poor patient flow can lead to adverse outcomes for patients and organisational inefficiency. Many hospitals have addressed suboptimal patient flow by increasing resourcing, such as bed stock and staffing, however, this is an unsustainable approach. In determining the nature of poor patient flow issues, it is important to collect data from healthcare professionals who manage patient flow on a daily basis. Doing so provides insights into the current state of patient flow management in its entirety, whilst also helping with the development of sustainable solutions.; Methods: Thirteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with clinicians who were directly involved with patient flow at a tertiary care centre in Tasmania, Australia. Results: Through a thematic analysis method, four major themes were developed: managing patient flow, communication for decisions, tools as enablers and barriers and increasing complexity. Conclusions: The findings of this study provide great insights into patient flow issues, with potential solutions identified to address them.
Development and Length Frequency Distribution of Larvae of Some Mesopelagic Fishes Near Coral Reefs in the Red Sea
Authors: Abu El-Regal Mohamed Ahmed , Ditty James G.
Published: September 2023

This work aims to describe the early life history and the length frequency distribution of larval stages of three mesopelagic species collected near coral reef areas in the Red Sea. Larvae were collected monthly using a plankton net (500 µ) from three coastal coral reef areas surrounding Sharm El-Shekikh on the Egyptian Red Sea coast between January and December 2015. The identification of larvae was based on the author’s experience and other literature. The larvae of this species were divided into preflexion, flexion, and postflexion based on the flexion of the notochord and they were also categorized according to their size into relevant size classes. Mesopelagic fishes were represented in the collection by four species belonging to four families; Vinciguerria mabahiss (Family: Phosichthyidae), Benthosema pterotum (Family: Myctophidae), Astronesthes martensii (Family: Stomiidae; subfamily: Astronesthidae) and Trichiurus sp. (Family Scombridae). In general, a total of 3678 larvae were collected, of which 1191 belonged to mesopelagic species. The most abundant species was V. mabahiss with 677 larvae that constituted 18% of total larvae collected. The second most abundant species was B. pterotum that was represented by 485 larvae (13%). A. martensii was represented by the lowest number of larvae (29 larvae, 2%). Most larvae of the three species were in preflexion stage and more abundant in the cooler months of the year between November and April. The high number of preflexion larvae at the time may indicate the spawning of the three species in the colder times of the year.
On the interpretation of cosmic acceleration
Authors: Gaztanaga Enrique
Published: September 2023

We argue here that deceleration (and not acceleration) is the correct interpretation for current measurements of cosmic expansion. The concept of cosmic acceleration, $q$, that we commonly used is based in the comoving distance. This is a 3D space-like coordinate, which corresponds to distance between non causal events. For a correct interpretation, cosmic expansion should be measured using the distance between (4D null) causal events. This is implemented here using a new definition, $q_E$, for cosmic acceleration. We present a comparison of $q_E$ and $q$ in data from supernovae (SN) and radial galaxy/QSO clustering (BAO). The $q$ analysis reproduces some known tension between SN and BAO, but this tension disappears for $q_E$. Data clearly shows that cosmic expansion is decelerating indicating that events are trapped inside an Event Horizon, like in the interior of a Black Hole (BH). Rather than a new form of dark energy or modified Gravity, $\Lambda$ corresponds to a boundary that causes friction, i.e. an attractive force, similar to a rubber band.
Determination of the Copy Number of Porcine Endogenous Retroviruses (PERV) in Auckland Island Pigs Repeatedly Used for Clinical Xenotransplantation and Elimination of PERV‐C
Authors: Fiebig Uwe , Krüger Luise , Denner Joachim
Published: September 2023

Auckland Island pigs represent an inbred population of feral pigs isolated on the subantarctic island for over 100 years. The animals have been maintained under pathogen-free conditions in New Zealand, they are well characterized virologically and have been used as donor sources in first clinical trials of porcine neonatal islet cell transplantation for the treatment of human dia-betes patients. The animals do not carry any of the xenotransplantation-relevant viruses and in the first clinical trials no porcine viruses including porcine endogenous retroviruses (PERVs) have been transmitted to the human recipients. PERVs pose a special risk in xenotransplantation since they are part of the pig genome. When the copy number of PERVs in these animals was analyzed using droplet digital PCR, a copy number typical for Western pigs was found, confirming previous phylogenetic analyses of microsatellites and mitochondrial analyses showing a closer relationship to European pigs than to Chinese pigs. When kidney cells from very young piglets were analyzed, only around 20 PERVpol copies were detected. Using these cells as nuclear donors in a somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), animals were born showing PERVpol copy numbers between 35 and 56. This data indicates that Auckland Island pigs have a lower copy number in comparison with other Western pig breeds and that the copy number is higher in adult animals compared with cells from young piglets. Most importantly, PERV-C free animals were selected and the absence of additional eight porcine viruses was demonstrated.
Surge analysis in Mobile Harbor, Alabama : ship-simulation report
Authors: Johnston Morgan , Pazan Kiara , Ding Yan , Allison Mary , Kim Sung-Chan
Published: September 2023

A navigation channel improvement study for Mobile Harbor was conducted by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Mobile District (CESAM), and the Alabama State Port Authority. The US Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) assisted CESAM in assessing channel modifications using ERDC’s Ship/Tow Simulator through a Feasibility Level Screening Simulation study in 2017 and through a more comprehensive ship-simulation study in 2020. During the 2020 study, a safety concern was identified related to vessel interactions between a transiting vessel passing docked vessels at the McDuffie Coal Terminal located along the main federal channel. In the previous ship-simulation studies, the docked vessels were represented as targets, which means the ships are visually represented but no hydrodynamic interaction is captured. To fully assess this interaction, a surge-analysis study was completed in 2022 that used hydrodynamic models to represent docked vessels with representative mooring conditions. This study assessed several proposed navigation channel expansions across from the McDuffie Coal Terminal over the course of six testing days with four pilots. Assessment of the proposed modifications was accomplished through analysis of ship simulations completed by experienced local pilots, track plots, run sheets, and final pilot questionnaires.
Depth-dependent distribution of prokaryotes in sediments of the manganese crust on Nazimov guyots of the Magellan seamounts
Authors: Sun Jianxing , Zhou Hongbo , Cheng Haina , Chen Zhu , Yang Jichao , Wang Yuguang , Jing Chunlei
Published: September 2023

Deep ocean polymetallic nodules, rich in cobalt, nickel, and titanium which are commonly used in high-technology and biotechnology applications, are being eyed for green energy transition through deep-sea mining operations. Prokaryotic communities underneath polymetallic nodules could participate in deep-sea biogeochemical cycling, however, are not fully described. To address this gap, we collected sediment cores from Nazimov guyots, where polymetallic nodules exist, to explore the diversity and vertical distribution of prokaryotic communities. Our 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing data, quantitative PCR results and phylogenetic beta diversity indices showed that prokaryotic diversity in the surficial layers (0–8 cm) was > 4-fold higher compared to deeper horizons (8–26 cm), while heterotrophs dominated in all sediment horizons. Proteobacteria was the most abundant taxon (32–82%) across all sediment depths, followed by Thaumarchaeota (4–37%), Firmicutes (2–18%) and Planctomycetes (1–6%). Depth was the key factor controlling prokaryotic distribution, while heavy metals (e.g., iron, copper, nickel, cobalt, zinc) can also influence significantly the downcore distribution of prokaryotic communities. Analyses of phylogenetic diversity showed that deterministic processes governing prokaryotic assembly in surficial layers, contrasting with stochastic influences in deep layers. This was further supported from the detection of a more complex prokaryotic co-occurrence network in the surficial layer which suggested more diverse prokaryotic communities existed in the surface vs. deeper sediments. This study expands current knowledge on the vertical distribution of benthic prokaryotic diversity in deep sea settings underneath polymetallic nodules, and the results reported might set a baseline for future mining decisions.
Production of High Quality Biodiesel from Sunflower Acid Oil Obtained by Acidulation of Soapstock from Refining Process: Immobilized Pancreatic Lipase for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Palüzar Hatice
Published: September 2023

Edible refined oils, which are utilized as raw materials in biodiesel production, have been replaced by by-products (acid oil, fatty acid, deodorized distillate and soapstock distillates) obtained from the vegetable oil refining industry, in recent years. This study aims to investigate the production of high quality biodiesel fuel in accordance with the standards (TS EN and ASTM) from soapstock acid oil. Waste sunflower soapstock acid oil used in the study was donated by an oil factory in the Thrace region. The acid oil, which comprises predominantly of FFA (≥ 95 wt%), is obtained through the liberation of soapstock from the refining process employed for edible sunflower oil via acidulation. Transesterification reaction was performed by immobilized pancreatic lipase. For this, the immobilization by covalent binding of pancreatic lipase in glutaraldehyde activated chitosan was optimized. The activity of the immobilized lipase and the retained activity were found to be 35.69 U/µg and 61.8%, respectively (pH: 7.5, 37°C). The Km and Vmax values of the immobilized enzyme were found to be 5.1 mmol/L and 486 U/mg, respectively. Following immobilization, the enzyme was employed as a biocatalyst for transesterification, converting sunflower soapstock acid oil. Notably, an impressive yield of 75.6% was attained under the conditions of a 1:5 molar ratio of soapstock acid oil to methanol, with 10% immobilized lipase as the catalyst, and a reaction temperature of 45°C for 36 hours. The resulting biodiesel exhibits fuel characteristics that meet the standards outlined in TS EN 14214:2012 + A2 and ASTM D6751.
Kinetics, Isotherm, Mechanism, and Recyclability of Novel Nano-sized Ce4+-Doped Ni-Al Layered Double Hydroxide for Defluoridation of Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Wagassa Ararso Nagari , Shifa Tofik Ahmed , Bansiwal Amit , Zereffa Enyew Amare
Published: September 2023

Excessive fluoride removing from aqueous solutions is of utmost importance as it has adverse impact on human health. This study investigates the defluoridation efficiency of a novel nano-sized Ce+4-doped Ni/Al layered double hydroxide (Ni-Al-Ce LDH) for aqueous solutions. The synthesized Ni-Al-Ce LDH exhibited a well-defined nanoscale plate-like morphology and a high surface area with an average size of 11.51 nm, which contributed to its enhanced fluoride adsorption capacity. XRD, SEM, HRTEM, and BET studies confirmed these characteristics. XPS analysis confirmed the presence of Ce4+ ions within the Ni-Al LDH. The experimental results indicated that the process of defluoridation followed a pseudo-second order model of kinetics, suggesting a chemisorption mechanism. The fluoride adsorption isotherms demonstrated well fits to the Freundlich, Langmuir and Jovanovic models, indicating both monolayer and multilayer fluoride adsorption on the Ce-doped Ni-Al LDH. The maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 238.27 mg/g (Langmuir) and 130.73 mg/g (Jovanovic) at pH 6.0 and 25°C. The proposed mechanisms for fluoride adsorption on the LDH include ion exchange, surface complexation, hydrogen bonding, and ligand exchange. The Ni-Al-Ce LDH nanomaterial exhibited good recyclability, maintaining 71% of the fluoride adsorption efficiency even after four consecutive cycles. This study highlights the significant role of Ce doping in improving the performance of Ni-Al LDH as a defluoridation adsorbent.
Spatial and temporal variation in nutrient availability under ambient and rainfall reduction conditions in the Brazilian Savanna
Authors: Mota Nayara Mesquita , Meira-Neto João Augusto Alves , Lacerda Fernando da Costa Brito , Durán Jorge , Rodríguez Alexandra
Published: September 2023

Background and aims
Climate models forecast decreases in rainfall for the Brazilian savanna (i.e. Cerrado), the most diverse tropical savanna worldwide. However, research on soil nutrients in the Cerrado and their response to climate change scenarios are still scarce. We sought to assess nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) availability in the three main Cerrado vegetation types (i.e. plant physiognomies; woodland, intermediate, and open savanna) under ambient (control plots) and rainfall reduction (treated plots) conditions.
Methods
Ion exchange membranes were incubated in the soil of each plot for 30-40 days at four climatic contrasting times (rainy, late-rainy, dry, and late-dry seasons) for two years.
Results
Nutrient availability varied among plant physiognomies, seasons, and years, with noteworthy interactions among some of these factors. The open savanna showed the lowest nutrient availability levels, but it strongly depended on the season and the year. In the dry season and under the rainfall reduction treatment, we observed a significant decrease in N availability but not in that of P.
Conclusions
Our result suggests a higher sensitivity of N than P availability to changes in soil moisture, and points towards a likely climate change-driven decoupling of the P and N cycles, at least in the short-term. Different plant physiognomies showed different sensitivities to the experimental rainfall reduction, with the woodland savanna consistently showing the strongest responses. These results highlight the need for an explicit consideration of the different Cerrado plant physiognomies when trying to fully understand the responses of this ecosystem to future climate change scenarios.
Respiratory variation in the internal jugular vein does not predict fluid responsiveness in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis surgery: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Wu Mimi , Dai Zhao , Liang Ying , Liu Xiaojie , Zheng Xu , Zhang Wei , Bo Jinhua
Published: September 2023

Background: Respiratory variation in the internal jugular vein (IJVV) has not shown promising results in predicting volume responsiveness in ventilated patients with low tidal volume (Vt) in prone position. We aimed to determine whether the baseline respiratory variation in the IJVV value measured by ultrasound might predict fluid responsiveness in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) undergoing posterior spinal fusion (PSF) with low Vt.
Methods: According to the fluid responsiveness results, the included patients were divided into two groups: those who responded to volume expansion, denoted the responder group, and those who did not respond, denoted the non-responder group. The primary outcome was determination of the value of baseline IJVV in predicting ﬂuid responsiveness (≥15% increases in stroke volume index (SVI) after 7 ml·kg-1 colloid administration) in patients with AIS undergoing PSF during low Vt ventilation. Secondary outcomes were estimation of the diagnostic performance of pulse pressure variation (PPV), stroke volume variation (SVV), and the combination of IJVV and PPV in predicting fluid responsiveness in this surgical setting.
Results: Fifty-six patients were included, 36 (64.29%) of whom were deemed ﬂuid responsive. No significant difference in baseline IJVV was found between responders and non-responders (25.89% vs. 23.66%, p = 0.73), and no correlation was detected between baseline IJVV and the increase in SVI after volume expansion (r = 0.14, p = 0.40). A baseline IJVV greater than 32.00%, SVV greater than 14.30%, PPV greater than 11.00%, and a combination of IJVV and PPV greater than 64.00% had utility in identifying ﬂuid responsiveness, with a sensitivity of 33.33%, 77.78%, 55.56%, and 55.56%, respectively, and a speciﬁcity of 80.00%, 50.00%, 65.00%, and 65.00%, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the baseline values of IJVV, SVV, PPV, and the combination of IJVV and PPV was 0.52 (95% CI, 0.38–0.65), 0.54 (95% CI, 0.40–0.67), 0.58 (95% CI, 0.45–0.71), and 0.57 (95% CI, 0.43–0.71), respectively.
Conclusions: Ultrasonic-derived IJVV lacked accuracy in predicting ﬂuid responsiveness in patients with AIS undergoing PSF during low Vt ventilation. In addition, the baseline values of PPV, SVV, and the combination of IJVV and PPV did not predict fluid responsiveness in this surgical setting.
Trail Registration: This trial was registered at www.chictr.org (ChiCTR2200064947) on 24/10/2022. All data were collected through chart review.
Microbiome single cell atlases generated with a commercial instrument
Authors: Abate Adam , Li Xiangpeng , Xu Linfeng , Demaree Benjamin , Noecker Cecilia , Bisanz Jordan , Weisgerber Daniel , Modavi Cyrus , Turnbaugh Peter
Published: September 2023

Single cell sequencing is useful for resolving complex systems into their composite cell types and computationally mining them for unique features that are masked in pooled sequencing. However, while commercial instruments have made single cell analysis widespread for mammalian cells, analogous tools for microbes are limited. Here, we present EASi-seq (Easily Accessible Single microbe sequencing). By adapting the single cell workflow of the commercial Mission Bio Tapestri instrument, this method allows for efficient sequencing of individual microbes’ genomes. EASi-seq allows thousands of microbes to be sequenced per run and, as we show, can generate detailed atlases of human and environmental microbiomes. The ability to capture large shotgun genome datasets from thousands of single microbes provides new opportunities in discovering and analyzing species subpopulations. To facilitate this, we develop a companion bioinformatic pipeline that clusters microbes by similarity, improving whole genome assembly, strain identification, taxonomic classification, and gene annotation. In addition, we demonstrate integration of metagenomic contigs with the EASi-seq datasets to reduce capture bias and increase coverage. Overall, EASi-seq enables high quality single cell genomic data for microbiome samples using an accessible workflow that can be run on a commercially available platform.
A Comprehensive Survival Analysis of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients Undergoing Initial Radical Surgery
Authors: Dong LINSHENG , Xue lINGLI , Cheng WEI , TANG JING , Ran JINGXUAN , LI YADONG
Published: September 2023

Objective
This study aims to evaluate the five-year overall survival (OS) rate and postoperative survival duration in patients diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Additionally, it seeks to scrutinize the clinical and pathological determinants influencing the survival outcomes in OSCC patients.
Methods
We meticulously gathered data from OSCC patients who underwent their first radical surgical intervention in the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between April 2014 and December 2016. Follow-up was diligently conducted until March 2022.
Results
The study encompassed a total of 162 patients. The observed 5-year OS rate was 59.3%. Approximately 45.7% of OSCC patients experienced recurrence and metastasis post-surgery, with the 5-year overall disease-free survival rate being 49.4%. Univariate analysis revealed that clinical stage, tumor size, lymph node metastasis (pN), pathological differentiation, and recurrence and metastasis were significant factors influencing survival duration (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis further indicated that pathological differentiation and recurrence and metastasis were independent determinants of survival duration (P < 0.05). An intriguing observation was that 11 OSCC patients were diagnosed with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) within 1–4 years following surgery.
Conclusion
The survival prognosis of OSCC patients is significantly associated with clinical stage, tumor size, lymph node metastasis (pN), pathological differentiation, and recurrence and metastasis. Pathological differentiation and recurrence and metastasis are independent determinants affecting survival duration. Routine clinical screening for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma may be recommended for OSCC patients with a history of alcohol and tobacco consumption.
Evaluation of polymethyl-methacrylate and acetal denture base resins processed by two different techniques before and after nano-chlorohexidine surface treatment
Authors: Fathy Salma , Abdel-halim Mohmoud , El-Safty Samy , El-Ganiny Amira
Published: September 2023

Background
This study aimed to evaluate surface roughness and biofilm formation tendency of two types of denture base resins manufactured with two techniques before and after surface coating with chlorohexidine (CHX) NPs and release of these NPs from coated resins.
Materials and methods
Acetal (AC) and Polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) resins manufactured by conventional and CAD/CAM methods were shaped into disk (10 X 10 X 1 mm). They were dipped for 8h and 24h in colloidal suspension prepared by mixing aqueous solutions of CHX digluconate and hexa-metaphosphate (0.01 M). Surface roughness, optical density (OD) of microbial growth media and biofilm formation tendency were evaluated directly after coating. Elutes concentrations of released CHX were evaluated for 19 days using spectrophotometer and then OD after release was evaluated again. Three way ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc statistical analysis were used.
Results
AC CAD/CAM groups showed statistically significant highest roughness before and after coating (54.703 ± 4.32 and 77.58 ± 6.07 nm, respectively). All groups showed significant reduction in OD and biofilm formation tendency after surface coating even after 19 days of CHX NPs release.
Conclusions
Biofilm formation tendency was highly relevant to surface roughness of tested resins before coating. After CHX NPs coating all tested groups showed significant impact on microbial growth and reduction in biofilm formation tendency with no relation to surface roughness. Significant antimicrobial effect remained even after 19 days of NPs release and specimens storage.
Retrospective analysis of the efficacy of epidural labour analgesia on early breastfeeding after vaginal delivery
Authors: Hu Xudong , Xiong Dongqin , Luo Meifang , Ling Chen , Liu Xingqing , Wen Xianjie
Published: September 2023

Background
The breast feeding is important for infant and mother .The epidural labour analgesia is used frequently to alleviate the pain during the vaginal delivery . Studies found that epidural labor analgesia may have a negative effect on postpartum breastfeeding. But the efficacy of epidural labour analgesia on breastfeeding early after vaginal delivery was unclear . So this retrospective analysis was made to illuminate the efficacy of epidural labour analgesia on postpartum breast feeding.
Methods
392 women who received vaginal delivery in the Second People's Hospital of Foshan from July 2022 to June 2023 were selected in this studyand all women received the epidural labour analgesia were divide into three group according to the efficacy of labour analgesia. Women with VAS score 4-6 were divided into Group M(n=127) and women with VAS score﹥7 were divided into Group P (n=73).The lactation initiation time and the incidenceof delayed onset of lactation were analyzed .The lactation volume and times and the LATCH score at 24,48 and 72 hours after vaginal delivery were also analyzed.
Results
The lactation initiation time in Group M was shorter than those in Group E and Group P with statistical significance (All P﹤0.05);There was no significant difference of lactation initiation time after vaginal delivery between Group E and Group P (P﹥0.05). The incidence of delayed onset of lactation in Group M were lower than those in Group E and Group P with statistical significance(All P﹤0.05);There was no statistical significance of the incidence of delayed onset of lactation between Group E and Group P(P﹥0.05).The lactation volume at 24 , 48 and 72 hours after vaginal delivery in Group M were higher than those in Group E and Group P with statistical significance (All P ﹤0.05); There wasno significant difference of lactation volume at 24,48 and 72 hours after vaginal delivery between Group E and Group P(P﹥0.05). The lactation times at 24 , 48 and 72 hours after vaginal delivery in Group M were higher than those in Group E and Group Pwith statistical significance (All,P﹤0.05); There wasno significant difference of lactation times at 24,48 and 72 hours after vaginal delivery between Group E and Group P(P﹥0.05).There was no significant difference of LATCH scores at 24,48 and 72 hours after vaginal delivery among the three groups (All P﹥0.05).
Conclusions
Compared with labour analgesia with excellent and poor analgesia efficacy, the labouranalgesia with moderate analgesia efficacy has less cases of prolatin using,morelactation volume and times, shorter lactation initiation time, lessincidence of delayed onset of lactation and no effect on the LATCH score of breastfeeding.
Evaluation of disease knowledge and attitude with selected self-care and sociodemographic factors among outpatients with hypertension – a multicenter study
Authors: Aje Akinniyi A. , Fakeye Titilayo O.
Published: September 2023

Background:There are lots of interplays between many patient-related factors which may influence disease progression among patients with hypertension.This study evaluated disease knowledge and attitude, as well as selected self-care and sociodemographic factors among patients with hypertension.Methods:A cross-sectional study was carried out among outpatients with hypertension in a multicenter study involving three tertiary hospitals. An interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire was administered for data collection. Data was summarized with descriptive and inferential statistics with the level of significance set at p<0.05.Results:Self-reported medication adherence revealed that majority, 180 (60.4%), had high medication adherence out of 298 that participated. Medication discrepancy was observed among 153 (51.3%) patients, while 131 (44.0%) had high health literacy. Average hypertension knowledge assessment score was 10.89 ± 1.79 out of a maximum obtainable score of 13. Average hypertension attitude score was 52.60 ± 5.49, out of the maximum obtainable of 60. Significant associations observed with patients’ hypertension knowledge were with level of formal education (p<0.001), health literacy (p<0.001) and disease attitude (p<0.001); while patients’ age (p=0.002), level of formal education (p=0.005), and health literacy (p<0.001) had significant associations with disease attitude. Significant associations were also observed between patients’ age and medication discrepancy (p=0.047), medication adherence and age (p=0.046), level of formal education and health literacy (p<0.001). No significant associations were observed between medication discrepancy and health literacy (p=0.192), medication adherence and health literacy (p=0.499), medication adherence and medication discrepancy (p=0.435).ConclusionsDisease knowledge and attitude among the patients were satisfactory, and the majority were medication adherent. Health literacy level was average, and a positive association was observed when disease knowledge and attitude was compared with health literacy and educational level.
Metallothionein 3 promotes osteoclast differentiation and survival by regulating the intracellular Zn2+ concentration and NRF2 pathway
Authors: Fujiwara Toshifumi , Arisumi Shinkichi , Yasumoto Keitaro , Tsutsui Tomoko , Saiwai Hirokazu , Kobayakawa Kazu , Okada Seiji , Zhao Haibo , Nakashima Yasuharu
Published: September 2023

In osteoclastogenesis, the metabolism of metal ions plays an essential role in controlling reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitochondrial biogenesis, and survival, and differentiation. However, the mechanism regulating metal ions during osteoclast differentiation remains unclear. The metal-binding protein metallothionein (MT) detoxifies heavy metals, maintains metal ion homeostasis, especially zinc, and manages cellular redox levels. We carried out tests using murine osteoclast precursors to examine the function of MT in osteoclastogenesis and evaluated their potential as targets for future osteoporosis treatments. MT genes were significantly upregulated upon differentiation from osteoclast precursors to mature osteoclasts in response to receptor activators of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) ligand (RANKL) stimulation, and MT3 expression was particularly pronounced in mature osteoclasts among MT genes. The knockdown of MT3 in osteoclast precursors demonstrated a remarkable inhibition of differentiation into mature osteoclasts. In preosteoclasts, MT3 knockdown suppressed the activity of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and NF-κB signaling pathways upon RANKL stimulation, leading to increased apoptosis through elevated cleaved Caspase 3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) levels. Additionally, ROS levels were decreased, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) (a suppressor of ROS) and the downstream antioxidant proteins, such as catalase (CAT) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), were more highly expressed in the MT3 preosteoclast knockdowns. mitochondrial ROS, which is involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and the production of reactive oxygen species, were similarly decreased because cAMP response element-binding (CREB) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1β (PGC-1β) were less activated due to MT3 depletion. Thus, by modulating ROS through the NRF2 pathway, MT3 plays a crucial role in regulating osteoclast growth and survival, acting as a metabolic modulator of intracellular zinc ions.
Construction and validation of a hypoxia-related gene signature to predict the prognosis of invasive ductal breast carcinoma
Authors: Qiu Chaoran , Wang Wenjun , Xu Shengshan , Li Yong , Zhu Jingtao , Zhang Yiwen , Lei Chuqian , Li Weiwen , Li Hongsheng , Li Xiaoping
Published: September 2023

Background: Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), the most common type of breast cancer, was known for its aggressive nature. Recent research revealeda lack of oxygen, known as hypoxia, wascrucial in forming breast cancer. This research aimed to create a robustsignature with hypoxia-related genes to predict the prognosis of IDC patients. The function of hypoxia genes was further studied through cell line experiments.
Materials and Methods: In the bioinformatic part, transcriptome and clinical information of breast IDC were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Hypoxia-related genes were downloaded from the Genecards Platform. Differentially expressed hypoxia-related genes (DEHRGs) were identified. Training and test sets were defined with a 1:1 ratio. Prognostic-related DEHRGs were identified through Cox regression; then the signature was established and validated. The nomogram was created by incorporating the signature and clinicopathological characteristics. The predictive value of the nomogram was evaluated by C-index and receiver operating characteristic cure. Immune microenvironment and mutation burden were also examined. In the experiment part, the function of the two most significant hypoxia-related genes were further explored by cell-line experiments.
Results: In the bioinformatic part, 37 up-regulated and 55 down-regulated DEHRGs were screened out. A prognostic signature was constructed containing nine hypoxia genes (ALOX15B, CA9, CD24, CHEK1, FOXM1, HOTAIR, KCNJ11, NEDD9, PSME2) in the training set. Low-risk patients exhibited a much more favorable prognosis tthan higher-risk ones(P<0.001). The signature was double-validated in the test set and GSE131769 (P=0.006 and P=0.001). The nomogram showed excellent predictive value with 1-year OS AUC: 0.788, 3-year OS AUC: 0.783, and 5-year OS AUC: 0.817. Patients in the high-risk group had a higher tumor mutation burden when compared to the low-risk group. In the experiment part, the down-regulation of PSME2 inhibited cell growth ability and clone formation capability of breast cancercells, while the down-regulation of KCNJ11 did not have any functions.
Conclusion: Based on 9 DEHRGs, a reliable signature was established through the bioinformatic method. It could accurately predict the prognosis of breast IDC patients. Cell line experiment indicated that PSME2 played a protective role. Summarily, we provided a new insight to predict the prognosis of breast IDC by hypoxia-related genes.
Strategies and resources used by public health units to encourage COVID-19 vaccination among priority groups: a behavioural science-informed review of three urban centres in Canada
Authors: Langmuir Tori , Wilson Mackenzie , McCleary Nicola , Patey Andrea M , Mekki Karim , Ghazal Hanan , Noad Elizabeth Estey , Buchan Judy , Dubey Vinita , Galley Jana , Gibson Emily , Fontaine Guillaume , Smith Maureen , Alghamyan Amjad , Thompson Kimberly , Crawshaw Jacob , Grimshaw Jeremy M , Arnason Trevor , Brehaut Jamie , Michie Susan , Brouwers Melissa , Presseau Justin
Published: September 2023

Background: Ensuring widespread COVID-19 vaccine uptake is a public health priority in Canada and globally, particularly within communities that exhibit lower uptake rates and are at a higher risk of infection. Public health units (PHUs) have leveraged many resources to promote the uptake of recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses. Understanding barriers and enablers to vaccine uptake, and which strategies/resources have been used to address them to date, may help identify areas where further support could be provided. We sought to identify the strategies/resources used by PHUs to promote the uptake of the first and third doses of the COVID-19 vaccine among priority groups in their jurisdictions. We examined the alignment of these existing strategies/resources with behavioral science principles, to inform potential complementary strategies/resources.
Methods: We reviewed the online and in-person strategies/resources used by three PHUs in Ontario, Canada to promote COVID-19 vaccine uptake among priority groups (Black and Eastern European populations, and/or neighbourhoods with low vaccine uptake or socioeconomic status). Strategies/resources were identified from PHU websites, social media, and member-checking. We used the Behaviour Change Techniques (BCT) Taxonomy – which describes 93 different ways of supporting behaviour change – to categorise the types of strategies/resources used, and the Theoretical Domains Framework – which synthesises 14 factors that can be barriers or enablers to decisions and actions – to categorise the barriers and enablers addressed by each strategy/resource.
Results: PHUs operationalised 21 out of 93 BCTs, ranging from 15–20 BCTs per PHU. The most frequently operationalised BCTs were found in PHU strategies/resources that provided information about COVID-19 infection and vaccines, increased access to COVID-19 vaccination, and integrated social supports such as community ambassadors and engagement sessions with healthcare professionals. Identified BCTs aligned most frequently with addressing barriers and enablers related to Knowledge, Environmental context and resources, and Beliefs about consequences domains.
Conclusion: PHUs have used several BCTs to address different barriers and enablers to COVID-19 vaccine uptake for priority groups. Opportunities should be pursued to broaden the scope of BCTs used in strategies/resources and barriers/enablers addressed in general and for prioritised populations to support ongoing and future efforts supporting uptake of COVID-19 vaccine doses.
Genetic background of FHLH in Qatar: Registry data and population study
Authors: Elgaali Elkhansa , Mezzavilla Massimo , Ahmed Ikhlak , Elanbari Mohammed , Ali Aesha , Abdelaziz Ghada , Fakhro Khalid , Saleh Ayman , Ben-Omran Tawfeg , Almulla Naima , Cugno Chiara
Published: September 2023

Background
Familial Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (FHLH) is an inherited life-threatening disease. Five types are identified with the addition of congenital immunodeficiency syndromes in which HLH is a typical manifestation. The literature on this disease is very scarce in the Middle East, with only a few scattered reports.
Methods:
We report detailed demographic, clinical, and genomic data from 28 patients diagnosed with FHLH and Griscelli syndrome type 2 over the last decade in Qatar.
Evaluation of allele frequencies of deleterious variants from 12 FHLH causative genes was performed on the Qatar Genome Programme (QGP) cohort of 14,669 Qatari individuals.
Results
The genetic diagnosis was obtained in 15 patients and 4 novel mutations in PRF1, UNC13D, LYST and RAB27A genes were identified.
We identified 22,945 low/high/moderate impact variants significantly enriched in the QGP in those 12 genes. The variants rs1271079313 in PRF1 and rs753966933 in RAB27A found in our patients’ cohort were significantly more prevalent in QGP compared to the gnomAD database, with a high carrier frequency in the Qatari population.
Conclusions
We established the first FHLH Registry in the Gulf Region and identified novel pathogenic variants present at higher frequency in the Qatari population, which could be used for screening purposes. Raising awareness about FHLH and implementing screening activities in the Qatari highly inbred population could stem into more comprehensive pre-marital and prenatal evaluations and faster diagnosis.
Application of neurally adjusted ventilatory assist in preterm infants after patent ductus arteriosus ligation: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lin Hui-Zi , Lin Yun-Feng , Zheng Yi-Rong
Published: September 2023

Objective
This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) and synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV) in preterm infants requiring mechanical ventilation after patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) ligation.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on intubated preterm infants who underwent PDA ligation at our hospital from July 2021 to January 2023. Infants were divided into NAVA or SIMV groups based on the ventilation mode after surgery.
Results
Forty-eight preterm infants were included. During treatment, peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) and mean airway pressure (MAP) were lower with NAVA than SIMV (PIP: 19.0 ± 3.0 vs. 22.4 ± 3.6 cmH2O, P = 0.001; MAP: 9.2 ± 1.9 vs. 10.9 ± 2.7 cmH2O, P = 0.008). PaO2 and PaO2/FiO2 were higher with NAVA (PaO2: 94.2 ± 12.1 vs. 84.8 ± 15.8 mmHg, P = 0.022; PaO2/FiO2: 267 [220–322] vs. 232 [186–290] mmHg, P = 0.023). Less sedation was required with NAVA (midazolam: 1.5 ± 0.5 vs. 1.0 ± 0.3 µg/kg/min, P < 0.001).
Conclusion
Compared with SIMV, early NAVA after PDA ligation in preterm infants significantly decreased PIP and MAP, required less sedation, and improved oxygenation.