bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Distinctive Epigenomic Alterations in NF1-deficient Cutaneous and Plexiform Neurofibromas Drive Differential MKK/p38 Signaling
Authors: Grit Jamie L. , Johnson Benjamin K. , Dischinger Patrick S. , Essenburg Curt J. , Adams Marie , Campbell Stacy , Pollard Kai , Pratilas Christine A. , Triche Tim J. , Graveel Carrie R. , Steensma Matt 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors are the clinical hallmark of Neurofibromatosis Type 1. They account for substantial morbidity and mortality in NF1. Cutaneous (CNF) and plexiform neurofibromas (PNF) share nearly identical histology but maintain different growth rates and risk of malignant conversion. The reasons for this disparate clinical behavior are not well explained by recent genome or transcriptome profiling studies. We hypothesized that CNFs and PNFs are epigenetically distinct tumor types that exhibit differential signaling due to genome-wide and site-specific methylation events. We interrogated the methylation profiles of 45 CNFs and 17 PNFs from NF1 subjects with the Illumina EPIC 850K methylation array. Based on these profiles, we confirm that CNFs and PNFs are epigenetically distinct tumors with broad differences in higher order chromatin states and specific methylation events altering genes involved in key biological and cellular processes, such as inflammation, RAS/MAPK signaling, actin cytoskeleton rearrangement, and oxytocin signaling. Based on our identification of two separate DMRs associated with alternative leading exons in MAP2K3, we demonstrate differential RAS/MKK3/p38 signaling between CNFs and PNFs. Epigenetic reinforcement of RAS/MKK/p38 was a defining characteristic of CNFs leading to pro-inflammatory signaling and chromatin conformational changes, whereas PNFs signaled predominantly through RAS/MEK. Tumor size also correlated with specific CpG methylation events. Taken together, these findings confirm that NF1 deficiency influences the epigenetic regulation of RAS signaling fates, accounting for observed differences in CNF and PNF clinical behavior. The extension of these findings is that CNFs may respond differently than PNFs to RAS-targeted therapeutics raising the possibility of targeting p38-mediated inflammation for CNF treatment.
Good Practices and Lessons Learned in Developing Local Language Tools to Support Stakeholder Engagement Activities
Authors: Chemonges Elinor Wanyama , Dicko Bakara , Toe Lea Pare , Coulibaly Mamadou , Barry Nourou , Bayala Korotimi , Diabate Abdoulaye , Drabo Mouhamed , Kayondo Jonathan , Kekele Souleymane , Kodio Souleymane , Ky Anselme Dinyiri , Linga Richard Ronny , Magala Emmanuel , Meda Wilfrid Ihibna , Mukwaya Solome , Namukwaya Annet , Robinso Benjamin , Samoura Hatoumata , Sanogo Kadiatou , thizy delphine , Traore Fatoumata 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Stakeholder engagement is an essential pillar for the development of innovative public health interventions, including genetic approaches for malaria vector control. Scientific terminologies are largely lacking in local languages yet, when research activities involve international partnership, the question of technical terminology and its translation is crucial for effective and meaningful communication with stakeholders. Target Malaria, a not-for-profit research consortium developing innovative genetic approaches to malaria vector control, carried out a linguistic exercise in Mali, Burkina Faso and Uganda to establish the appropriate translation of its key terminology to local languages of sites where the teams operate. While reviewing the literature, there was no commonly agreed approach to establish such glossary of technical terms in local languages of the field sites where Target Malaria operates. Because of its commitment to the value of co-development, Target Malaria decided to apply this principle for the linguistic work and to take the opportunity of this process to empower communities to take part in the dialogue on innovative vector control. The project worked with linguists from other institutions (whether public research ones or private language center) who developed a first potential glossary in the local language after better understanding the project scientific approach. This initial glossary was then tested during focus groups with community members, which significantly improved the proposed translations by making them more appropriate to the local context and cultural understanding. The stepwise process revealed the complexity and importance of elaborating a common language with communities as well as the imbrication of language with cultural aspects. This exercise demonstrated the strength of a co-development approach with communities and language experts as a way to develop knowledge together and to tailor communication to the audience even in the language used.
Invasive Pulmonary Cryptococcal Infection Masquerading as Lung Cancer With Brain Metastases: A Case Report
Authors: Echieh Chidiebere Peter , Nwagboso Chmaobi I , Ogbudu Stephen O , Eze Nkemakolam John , Ochang Ernest A , Jibrin Paul , Etiuma Anietimfon U , Bassey Okon O 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Cryptococcosis is a global disease problem. Although seen more frequently in the severely immuno-suppressed, it can also be seen in patients without apparent immuno-suppression. Patients with pulmonary Cryptococcosis typically present with cryptococcal pneumonia while brain cryptococcosis present with meningitis. Case presentation: Here we present our experience in the management of a 33-year-old immunocompetent man, diagnosed of invasive pulmonary Cryptococcal disease with spread to the brain. This case is unique because the patient was previously treated for tuberculosis and presented with typical bronchopulmonary (difficulty in breathing and cough), thoracic (diminished breath sounds and dull percussion notes), extra-thoracic (intra-cranial space occupying lesion) as well as Computed Tommography (CT) Scan features attributable to lung cancer. Diagnosis of Cryptococcosis was made by identification of oval thick-walled yeast on histology of lung biopsy specimen.Conclusions: We conclude that invasive Cryptococcosis affecting the lung and brain may present with a clinical picture similar to metastatic lung cancer. We recommend routine fungal stains and fungal culture in suspected cases.
Predicting the Quality of Life in Patients With Painful Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN) Based on Pain Severity, Pain Catastrophizing, Pain Acceptance, Depression, Anxiety, and Sleep Disturbance: Assessing the Prevalence of Psychiatric Symptoms in Iranian Patients With PDN.
Authors: Rezaei Parnian , Rajaeiramsheh Fereshteh , Davoudi Mohammadreza , Taheri Amir Abbas 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: This study aimed to predict the quality of life in patients with Painful Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN) based on pain severity, pain catastrophizing, pain acceptance, depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance. Also, assessing the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms in Iranian patients with PDN.Method: In this descriptive correlational study, 1500 MTBI patients admitted to the diabetes centers in Tehran, Iran, from November 2019, to August 2020 were selected using the convenient sampling method. One thousand one hundred twenty patients (mean age, 53.6± 12.6 years) participated in the research. Data were collected using the Quality of life (NeuroQol) questionnaire (as a dependent variable); Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, 10-cm visual analog scale (pain severity), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire (CPAQ) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Finally, the data were analyzed in SPSS‑26 by multiple regression analysis.Results: The study results showed that the regression model was significant (P < 0.5), in which variables predicted 42% of total changes in the quality of life in patients. Predicting factors from the most significant to the lowest include depression, pain catastrophizing, pain acceptance, pain severity, sleep disturbance, and finally, anxiety. Also, in patients with PDN, the prevalence rates of sleep disturbances, depression, and anxiety are 85.5%, 68.2%, and 62.1%, respectively. Also, comorbid depression and anxiety were found in 47% of patients.Conclusion: The findings of this study show a considerable relationship between these factors and quality of life. Thus, it is suggested to design more specific psychological‑based rehabilitation programs concerning these variables to improve these patients' quality of life, focusing on stronger variables (depression and pain catastrophizing) for reaching better treatment outcomes. Furthermore, according to the findings of this research, which shows a high level of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance in Iranian patients with PDN, all experts and clinicians must focus on these psychiatric symptoms to reduce disease problems.
Single-Port Robot-Assisted Perineal Radical Prostatectomy: Our Initial Experience
Authors: Huang Bin , Wu Yukun , Li Wenji , Wang Zongren , Chen Junxing , Chen Lingwu 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Purpose: To evaluate the clinical value of robot-assisted perineal radical prostatectomy (RPRP) in the treatment of early localized prostate cancer.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 3 consecutive patients diagnosed with prostate cancer from January 2020 to May 2020 who received RPRP in our center. The main outcomes assessed were operating time, perioperative complications and need for conversion to open surgery. Results: 3 patients successfully underwent RPRP with no conversion to open surgery. No intra-operative complications were seen. Average operative time was 201.67±61.53 min, console time was131.67±32.53 min, with an estimated blood loss of 183.33±28.87mL. 2 patients were discharged within 10 days postoperatively with perineal drainages removed. The Foley catheter was removed 2 weeks after surgery. One patient had a positive surgical margin (33.3%). 2 patients were continent immediately after removal of the Foley catheter, 1 patient was continent 1 month postoperatively. The sexual function of 2 patients recovered within 1 month and 1 patient recovered within 3 months. The PSA reexamination was 0-0.1µg/L one month after operation.Conclusion: For patients with early localized prostate cancer, robot-assisted perineal radical prostatectomy is a safe and effective method, and has outstanding advantages in radical tumor resection and postoperative urine control.
Rate of Initial Anti-retroviral Treatment Modification and Its Predictors Among Adult Hiv/aids Patients at Pawe General Hospital, Benishangul Gumuz Region, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Matso Tsehay , Jarso Habtamu , Ijigu Girma Mamo 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) is the cornerstone of managing patients with HIV infection. Once cART is initiated, patients generally remain on medications indeﬁnitely. However, antiretroviral regimens commonly require changes which often involve switches of multiple medications simultaneously. The maximal regimen durability with regard to safety and efficacy is a critical factor for long-term success of ART since modification to cART has a number of challenges.Objectives: To assess the rate, time to change, reasons and predictors of treatment modification among HIV/AIDS patients at Pawe General Hospital.Method: Hospital based retrospective cohort study was conducted among adult HIV/AIDS patients on follow-up in Pawe Hospital from 01 April 2017 to 30 April 2017. Patients who started cART at Pawe General Hospital from January 2012 to December 2016 were included. Data abstraction tool was used to collect data from patient chart. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize patient socio-demographics characteristics and rate of regimen modification. Bivariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard were performed to identify the predictors. Result: Over a median follow-up period of 21 months (IQR 6 - 38), 62 (14.5%) patients modified their initial regimens (incidence rate (IR); 7.66 per 100 person years [95% CI: 5.84 – 9.50]). Toxicity was the most common reason (72.6%). In multivariate Cox regression model, WHO stage III/IV at initiation(AHR;2.39, 95% CI: 1.23 – 4.66), AZT based initial NRTI backbone (AHR; 8.19, 95% CI: 4.55 - 14.73), low baseline hemoglobin ((< 7 g/dl [AHR; 6.32, 95% CI: 1.40 – 28.58] and 7-9.9 g/dl [AHR 4.21, 95% CI: 1.92 - 9.22]) and co-medication with cART (AHR 1.73, 95% CI: 1.03 - 2.89) were associated with increased risk of treatment modification.Conclusion: Initial regimen modification rate was lower in this population than cohorts in resource-rich settings. Special attention should be given for patients who are at advanced disease stage, AZT based regimen, low baseline hemoglobin and taking additional medications other than cART.
Vitamin C can reduce mortality in sepsis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of animal and human evidence
Authors: Zhao Cong-Cong , Han Li-Nan , Zhu Gui-Jun , Li Zhi-Qiang , Hu Zhen-Jie 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: The effect of vitamin C on outcomes in sepsis is unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis included animal and human studies to evaluate the value of intravenous vitamin C as a monotherapy in sepsis. Methods: We searched MEDLINE via PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL and CBM for animal studies, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and quasi-RCTs dated up to August 10, 2020. The included studies compared the effect of intravenous vitamin C and control on outcomes in sepsis. No language restrictions were applied. Two authors independently assessed the eligibility and quality of the trials and extracted data. Results: A total of 7 animal studies and 5 RCTs were included. Four animal studies (n=176) and all 5 RCTs (n=472) reported mortality, the primary outcome of this meta-analysis. The mortality of the vitamin C group was lower than that of the control group (odds ratio (OR) 0.22, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.81, P = 0.02; I2 =60% in animal studies, and OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.71, P < 0.001; I2 =0% in human studies). The GRADE assessment showed that the outcome was downgraded from high- to moderate-quality evidence due to imprecision. With regard to the secondary outcomes, the pooled data from animal studies showed that vitamin C had a beneficial effect on mean arterial pressure (std. mean difference (SMD) 1.36, 95% CI 0.32 to 2.41, P = 0.01; I2 =78%) and capillary density (SMD 1.97, 95% CI 0.89 to 3.04, P=0.69; I2 =0%) but had no effect on the level of lactate. The pooled data from human studies showed that vitamin C was associated with a reduction in vasopressor duration (MD -18.85, 95% CI -24.61 to -11.55, P < 0.001; I2 =0%) but could not shorten the length of ICU stay or duration of mechanical ventilation. No adverse effects were reported.Conclusions: Evidence from animal and human studies suggests that intravenous vitamin C monotherapy can reduce mortality in sepsis, with a moderate quality of evidence. We also found that vitamin C had a beneficial effect on mean arterial pressure, capillary density, and reduction of vasopressor duration in sepsis.
Perfect Forward Secrecy in VoIP Networks Through Design a Lightweight and Secure Authenticated Communication Scheme
Authors: saedi kazem , Nikooghadam Mahdi , Mohajerzadeh Amirhossein 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
In this research, we have tried to first focus on the previous work and after getting familiar with the base papers, focus on the main paper. In this paper, we try to determine the security problems in the proposed protocols and present appropriate solutions for them. One of the subjects studied by security and encryption researchers is the matter of authentication and key agreement in SIP. Recently, an authentication and key agreement protocol in SIP has been presented in a scheme. In this paper, it was proven that their presented protocol is vulnerable to the replay attack. Such that if an attacker resends the messages sent on the public channel back to the server, the server does not notice the duplicate messages and proceeds with the session process. Also, their protocol is not resistant to the temporary parameter disclosure attack and it is possible for the attacker to discover the session key in case the temporary parameters are disclosed. Furthermore, user anonymity does neither provide re-registration prevention with the real user ID nor early detection. In this paper, we have tried to present a protocol which prevents replay and parameter disclosure attacks.
Multi-curie Production of Gallium-68 on a Biomedical Cyclotron and Automated Radiolabelling of PSMA-11 and DOTATATE
Authors: Thisgaard Helge , Kumlin Joel , Langkjær Niels , Chua Jansen , Hook Brian , Jensen Mikael , Kassaian Amir , Zeisler Stefan , Borjian Sogol , Cross Michael , Schaffer Paul , Dam Johan Hygum 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: With increasing clinical demand for gallium-68, commercial germanium-68/gallium-68 ([68Ge]Ge/[68Ga]Ga) generators are incapable of supplying sufficient amounts of the short-lived daughter isotope. In this study, we demonstrate a high-yield, automated method for producing multi-Curie levels of [68Ga]GaCl3 from solid zinc-68 targets and subsequent labelling to produce clinical-grade [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 and [68Ga]Ga-DOTATATE.Results: Enriched zinc-68 targets were irradiated at up to 80 µA with 13 MeV protons for 120 min; repeatedly producing up to 194 GBq (5.24 Ci) of purified gallium-68 in the form of [68Ga]GaCl3 at the end of purification (EOP) from an expected >370 GBq (>10 Ci) at end of bombardment. A fully automated dissolution/separation process was completed in 35 min. Isolated product was analysed according to the draft Ph. Eur. monograph for accelerator produced [68Ga]GaCl3 and found to comply with all specifications. In every instance, the radiochemical purity exceeded 99.9% and importantly, the radionuclidic purity was sufficient to allow for a shelf-life of up to 7 h based on this metric alone. Fully automated production of up to 72.2 GBq [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 was performed, providing a product with high radiochemical purity (>98.2%) and very high apparent molar activities of up to 722 MBq/nmol. Further, manual radiolabelling of up to 3.2 GBq DOTATATE was performed in high yields (>95%) and with apparent molar activities (9-25 MBq/nmol) sufficient for clinical use.Conclusions: We have developed a high-yielding, automated method for the production of very high amounts of [68Ga]GaCl3, sufficient for supply proximal radiopharmacies. The reported method led to record-high purified gallium-68 activities (194 GBq at end of purification) and subsequent labelling of PSMA-11 and DOTATATE. The process was highly automated from irradiation through to formulation of the product, and as such comprised a high level of radiation protection. The quality control results obtained for both [68Ga]GaCl3 for radiolabelling and [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 are promising for clinical use.
A Coating Strategy for Coevolving Photocatalysis to Stabilise Visible-Light Absorbing Semiconductors
Authors: Zhao Tianshuo , Yanagi Rito , Xu Yijie , He Yulian , Song Yuqi , Yang Meiqi , Hu Shu 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Semiconductors of narrow bandgaps and high quantum efficiency have not been successfully utilised for coevolving photocatalysis despite the widely demonstrated protective coating schemes. Herein, we showcase a general strategy of using conformal coatings and cocatalysts energetic properties to transform CdS powders and GaInP2 films into stable and efficient photocatalysts for coevolution of H2 and reversible redox couples. A scalable redox-mediated solar water-splitting reactor was constructed, regenerating the redox mediators while evolving O2 in a separate compartment. Distinct from the single direction of charge transfer found with conventional photoelectrode stabilisation, the coating herein allows both photo-excited electrons and holes to spatially separate and inject simultaneously to the respective reductive and oxidative sites. With TiO2 stabilisation, CdS particles produced H2 continuously for 150 hours. Under simulated sunlight, solar-to-hydrogen (STH) efficiency of 5.9% and 9.4% can be achieved for the CdS and GaInP2 panels, respectively, by stacking multiple panels and matching the rate of redox regeneration to that of H2 production.
AEO-7 Surfactant is “super Toxic” and Induces Severe Cardiac, Liver and Locomotion Damage in Zebrafish Embryos
Authors: Al-Asmakh Maha , Majdalawieh Amin F. , Abdullah Aboubakr M. , Younes Nadin , Da'as Sahar I. , Radwan A. Bahgat , Sliem Mostafa H. , Ech-Cherif Houria , Pintus Gianfranco , Nasrallah Gheyath K. 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
BackgroundFatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether-7 (AEO-7), a non-ionic surfactant, has recently been receiving extensive attention from the ocean pipeline industry for its ability to inhibit corrosion. However, the present lack of information concerning the potential environmental toxicity of AEO-7, especially towards aquatic organisms, is a major impediment to its wider application. Here, we assess potential adverse effects of AEO-7 on zebrafish embryos employing a variety of assays, including (i) a mortality/survival assay which allowed the median lethal concentration (LC50) to be calculated; (ii) a teratogenicity assay on the basis of which the no observed effect concentration (NOEC) was determined; and (iii) specific assays of cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity (based on locomotion), hematopoietic toxicity (the level of hemoglobin as revealed by o-dianisidine staining) and hepatotoxicity (liver steatosis and yolk retention examined by staining with Oil Red O). ResultsAEO-7 caused mortality with a calculated LC50 of 15.35 μg/L, which, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Acute Toxicity Rating scale, should be considered “super toxic”. Although at its NOEC (0.8 μg/L), there were no signs of significant teratogenicity, cardiotoxicity, or hemopoiesis toxicity, 3.2 µg/L AEO-7 exerted dramatic detrimental effects on organ development. ConclusionOn the basis of these findings, we recommend that the industrial usage and environmental impact of AEO-7 be re-evaluated and strictly monitored by environmental and public health organizations.
Emergence of Urban Growth Patterns from Human Movements
Authors: Xu Fengli , Li Yong , Song Chaoming 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Cities grow in a bottom-up manner, leading to fractal-like urban morphology characterized by scaling laws. Correlated percolation has succeeded in modeling urban geometries by imposing strong spatial correlations. However, the origin of such correlations remains largely unknown. Very recently, our understanding of human movements has been revolutionized thanks to the increasing availability of large-scale human mobility data. This paper proposes a novel human movement model that offers a micro-foundation for the dynamics of urban growth. We compare the proposed model with three empirical datasets, which evidences that strong social couplings and long-memory effects are two fundamental principles responsible for the mystical spatial correlations. The model accounts for the empirically observed scaling laws, but also allows us to understand the city evolution dynamically.