bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of Photobiomodulation and Bethanechol Chloride Treatment on Salivary Composition and Flow Rate in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy
Authors: Schepanski Natalia , Liebl Bruna Melo Silva , Mendes Reila Taina , Costa Floriatan Santos , Amaral Clarice D. B. , Machado Raquel C. , Nogueira Ana Rita A. , Sassi Laurindo Moacir , Araujo Melissa Rodrigues 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective
To evaluate the efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) and bethanechol chloride (BC) on the quantity and quality of saliva in patients undergoing radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck cancer.
Methods
Saliva samples were collected from patients before and after RT, who were treated with PBMT or BC. Clinical parameters, including salivary flow rate (SFR), pH, xerostomia, and concentrations of macro and microelements in saliva, were assessed. Data were compared and analyzed using a self-organizing map.
Results
No significant changes were observed in SFR, pH, and xerostomia pre- and post-RT in both the PBMT and BC-treated groups. However, there was an increase in Cr levels in the BC group and a reduction in P levels in the PBMT group.
Conclusion
The results suggest that both PBMT and BC treatments can effectively mitigate the impacts of RT. The quality and quantity of saliva were maintained, potentially contributing to the preservation of patients' quality of life.
Formic acid dehydrogenation using Ruthenium-POP pincer complexes in ionic liquids
Authors: Nikol Alexander Tobias , Rabell Brenda , Larsen René Wugt , Nielsen Martin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Formic acid is one of the most promising candidates for the long-term storage of hydrogen in liquid form. Herein, we present a new collection of ruthenium pincer complexes of the general formula [RuHCl(POP)(PPh3)] using commercially available or easy-to-synthesize tridentate xantphos-type POP pincer ligands. We applied these complexes in the dehydrogenation of formic acid to CO2 and H2 using the ionic liquid BMIM OAc as solvent under reflux-free, mild conditions. The best performing catalyst with respect to maximum turnover frequency, the literature-known complex [RuHCl(xantphos)(PPh3)], produced a turnover frequency of 4525 h− 1 with 74% conversion after 10 minutes at 90°C and complete conversion (> 98%) occurring within 3 hours. On the other hand, the best overall performing catalyst, the novel complex [RuHCl(iPr-dbfphos)(PPh3)], facilitated full conversion within 1 hour leading to an overall turnover frequency of 1009 h− 1. Moreover, catalytic activity was observed at temperatures as low as 60°C. Finally, Arrhenius plots suggest activation energies between 50.4 and 63.7 kJ mol− 1. Only CO2 and H2 are observed in the gas phase, with no CO detected.
A Comparative Study of Deformation in Hexagonal and Star-Shaped Implant Screwdriver Heads
Authors: Nourizadeh Amin , Ghasemi Shima , Shafiee Elnaz , JafarZadeh Sevda , Bakhtiari Fatemeh 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: The study compared the deformation characteristics of hexagonal and star-shaped implant screwdriver heads after multiple opening and closing cycles.
Methods: In this in vitro experimental study, abutments were placed on two implant systems mounted in die stone and torqued to 25 N/cm according to the manufacturer's recommendations, using 12 screwdrivers (n=six for each implant). The screwdriver heads underwent examination under a stereomicroscope at 50x magnification. Subsequently, the outline and deformation of the screwdriver head after 0, 50, 100, 200, and 300 opening and closing cycles were analyzed using AutoCAD software. The changes in the surface area of hexagonal and star-shaped driver heads after different cycles were statistically evaluated using SPSS 24 (α=0.05).
Results: The investigation revealed a reduction in the surface area of both hexagonal and star-shaped driver heads with an increase in the frequency of cycles. Notably, following all cycles, except 0-50 and 50-100, the alterations in the surface area of the star-shaped driver head were significantly greater than those observed in the hexagonal driver head (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The study shows that the star-shaped driver head deformed more than the hexagonal one, especially in cycles exceeding 100.
Enhancing therapeutic decisions during robot-assisted gait therapy: Current challenges and development of a novel app-based therapy protocol to address them
Authors: Dellen Florian van , Aurich Tabea , Labruyère Rob 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Therapists' decisions on influencing patient behavior during robot-assisted gait therapy directly impact clinical practice and, thus, therapeutic efficacy. These manipulations include device parameter adjustments and direct interactions with patients. Little research has been done on how therapists accomplish this task, and knowledge about what constitutes good decisions is scarce. The scarce knowledge is partly due to missing tools to document these decisions. Understanding how therapists assess behavior, manipulate patient behavior, and re-assess behavior for potential improvement could lead to better therapy outcomes.
Methods
We developed a novel mobile application to document therapeutic decisions based on expert knowledge and literature findings. Each documented manipulation consisted of three parts: The evaluation of the patient behavior (goal-oriented and compensatory), the manipulation by the therapist (direct interaction or device interaction), and the re-evaluation of the behavior concerning the consequences of this manipulation. The resulting application was pilot-tested with 10 patients in 5 sessions and 7 therapists in a real-world clinical setting.
Results
Therapists selected more than two therapy goals per session for 50% of the training sessions. The results show that 92% of the manipulations were direct interactions and 8% device interactions. Sixteen percent of the direct interactions targeted the selected goal and 43% compensatory movements. The type of manipulation had a statistically significant impact on the rate of improvement at re-evaluation, with direct interactions targeting compensatory movements having the best rate of improvement (48%) and the parameter adjustments having the lowest rate of improvement (25%).
Discussion
The app developed is a novel approach to documenting therapists' decisions. The data collected in the pilot study revealed several challenges in the decision-making process that therapists can currently only address based on their experience, including goal structure, the relative importance of goal-directed movements versus compensatory patterns, and the type of manipulation taken. Quantitative data provided by the app has the potential to objectify and improve these decisions and could support a transfer of successful treatment approaches between therapists and clinics.
Clinical and radiographic findings of 125 cases with amelogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Koruyucu Mine , Ozcan Hazal , Kasimoglu Yelda , Tuna Elif , Seymen Figen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the clinical and radiographic intraoral findings of patients with different types of amelogenesis imperfecta (AI).
Materials and methods: One hundred twenty-five individuals belonging to 103 Turkish families with AI who were admitted to İstanbul University Faculty of Dentistry Department of Pedodontics were examined between 2006 and 2018. Intraoral and extraoral examinations, intraoral radiographs and pedigrees of the cases were examined and genetic analyses were planned. All datas was included in the SPSS database and analyzed using the Chi-Square and Mann-Whitney U tests.
Results: The frequency of clinical and radiographic findings in different AI types was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Gene mutation was detected in different types of candidate genes in 32 families, While the presence of gene mutation was found to be statistically significant in different AI types (p<0.05), no significant difference was found between genetic mutations and consanguineous marriage (p>0.05).
Conclusions: AI is a complicated dental anomaly requiring long-term follow-up. Familial evaluation of the cases and complete radiographic and clinical controls are important for diagnosis and treatment.
Clinical revelance: This study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive and continuous assessment of patients with AI. By detailing intraoral and radiographic findings and identifying genetic mutations in various AI types, it aids clinicians in enhancing diagnostic accuracy and customizing treatment plans.
Efficacy and safety of upadacitinib, a selective JAK-1 inhibitor in treatment of ankylosing spondylitis: a meta-analysis
Authors: Yao Qi , Zhu Yixuan , Ma Yanling , Pu Yanfang , Yang Xueting , Zhang Zhiqing 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective: To systemically evaluate efficacy and safety of upadacitinib (UPA), a selective inhibitor of Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) in treatment of ankylosing spondylitis (AS).
Methods: PubMed, Embase, Elsevier, Springer, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, China national knowledge infrastructure (CNKI), and other databases were used to retrieve literatures of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of UPA treating AS until February 2024. After that, the data were extracted and the Revman 5.4 software was used to conduct a meta-analysis.
Results: A total of 6 articles and 1653 patients (920 in an UPA group (15 mg, q.d) and 733 in a placebo group) were selected in this study. Respectively, the UPA treatment significantly increased numbers of the AS patients with 40%, 20%, and partial remission (PR) improvement in assessment of spondylo arthritis international society (ASAS) (ASAS 40: 95%CI: 2.41 - 4.3, p < 0.00001; ASAS 20: 95%CI: 2.12 - 3.62, p< 0.00001; ASAS PR: 95%CI: 2.81 - 7.48, p < 0.00001), Bath ankylosing spondylitis disease activity index (BASDAI50) (95%CI: 2.28 ～ 4.10, p < 0.00001), quality of life (95%CI: 2.06 ～ 3.17, p < 0.00001), AS disease activity score low disease activity (ASDAS LDA) (95%CI: 3.07～9.96, p < 0.00001), ASDAS inactive disease (ID) (95%CI: 2.03 ～ 17.22, p = 0.001), short-form 36 physical component summary (SF-36PCS) (95%CI: 1.53 ～2.81, p < 0.00001), and markedly reduced ASDAS C-reactive protein (CRP) (95%CI: -1.22 ～ -0.42, p < 0.0001), total back pain score (95%CI: -2.01 ～ -0.51, p = 0.001), nighttime back pain score (95%CI: -1.96 ～ -0.54, p = 0.0006), spondylo arthritis research consortium of Canada magnetic resonance imaging (SPARCC MRI) spine score (95%CI: -7.78 - -3.50, p < 0.00001) and SPARCC MRI sacroiliac joint score (95%CI: -5.99 - -3.09, p < 0.00001), Bath ankylosing spondylitis function index (BASFI) score (95%CI: -1.45 ～ -0.81, p < 0.00001), Maastricht ankylosing spondylitis enthesitis score (MASES) (95%CI: -2.34～-0.35, p = 0.008). Except for neutropenia (95%CI: 1.25 ～ 15.60, p = 0.02), no other obvious adverse effects (AEs) were found after the UPA treatment.
Conclusions: UPA exerts a significant therapeutic effect in the patients with AS, and it has relative higher safety.
A Mathematical Model Simulating the Adaptive Immune Response in Various Vaccines and Vaccination Strategies
Authors: Xu Zhaobin , Song Jian , Zhang Hongmei , Wei Zhenlin , Wei Dongqing , Yang Guangyu , Demongeot Jacques , Zeng Qiangcheng 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Vaccination has been widely recognized as an effective measure for preventing infectious diseases. To facilitate quantitative research into the activation of adaptive immune responses in the human body by vaccines, it is important to develop an appropriate mathematical model, which can provide valuable guidance for vaccine development. In this study, we constructed a novel mathematical model to simulate the dynamics of antibody levels following vaccination, based on principles from immunology. Our model offers a concise and accurate representation of the kinetics of antibody response. We conducted a comparative analysis of antibody dynamics within the body after administering several common vaccines, including traditional inactivated vaccines, mRNA vaccines, and future attenuated vaccines based on defective interfering viral particles (DVG). Our findings suggest that booster shots play a crucial role in enhancing IgG antibody levels, and we provide a detailed discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of different vaccine types. From a mathematical standpoint, our model proposes four essential approaches to guide vaccine design: enhancing antigenic T-cell immunogenicity, directing the production of high-affinity antibodies, reducing the rate of IgG decay, and lowering the peak level of vaccine antigen-antibody complexes. Our study contributes to the understanding of vaccine design and its application by explaining various phenomena and providing guidance in comprehending the interactions between antibodies and antigens during the immune process.
Effects of different glomerular filtration rates on new-one heart failurein a community-based population with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Sang Dasen , Tao Jie , Song Wanqing , Zhang Qi , Wu Shouling , Geng Wei 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Aims
This study aimed to investigate the impact of different estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) values like cystatin C-based eGFR (eGFRcys), creatinine-based eGFR (eGFRcr), and their difference (eGFRdiff; eGFRcys -eGFRcr), on the incidence of heart failure (HF) in patients with type 2 diabetes(T2D).
Methods
Being a prospective cohort study, it included 7,967 patients with T2D who underwent serum creatinine and cystatin C tests as part of the Kailuan Group’s 6th annual health examination (2016). Subsequently, eGFRcys, eGFRcr, and eGFRdiff were calculated. Patients were categorized into three groups: negative (<-15 mL/min/1.73 m2), midrange (-15 to 15 mL/min/1.73 m2), and positive (> 15 mL/min/1.73 m2) eGFRdiff groups, respectively. Furthermore, the relationship between the various eGFR measurements and new-onset HF were studied using Cox proportional hazards regression, and the potential improvement in predictive capability was evaluated by adding these eGFR metrics to established HF risk models.
Results
Among 7967 participants with mean age of 60.51 years, there were 20.92% women and 79.08% men. At baseline, eGFRcys and eGFRcr values differed by more than 15 mL/min/1.73m2 in 41.3% of participants. During a median follow-up period of 3.76 years, there were 172 (2.16%) new HF cases and 517 (6.49%) all-cause deaths. The cumulative incidence of HF in the midrange, negative, and positive eGFRdiff groups was 1.74%, 4.10%, and 0.61%, respectively (p < 0.001). In multivariable adjusted models, participants in the negative eGFRdiff group had higher risk of HF compared with the midrange eGFRdiff group (HR, 2.15; 95% CI, 1.57–2.94). Conversely, participants in the positive eGFRdiff group had lower risk for HF (HR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.17–0.93). And each 15 mL/min/ 1.73 m2 higher eGFRdiff was associated with 34% (HR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.58 − 0.47)lower risk of incident HF. The predictive capacity for HF risk in diabetic individuals was enhanced by adding eGFRcys or eGFRdiff to established HF risk models, with eGFRcys showing more significant additional predictive value.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that large differences between eGFRcys and eGFRcr were common in community-based population with T2D. Different eGFR metrics can independently predict HF incidence in patients with T2D. Additionally, metrics like eGFRcys and eGFRdiff provide significant predictive value for HF risks beyond traditional risk factors, with eGFRcys showing more pronounced benefits in such cases.
Asymptomatic giant epiglottic cyst causing an unexpectedly difficult airway: A case report
Authors: Han Shunyu , Yang Guoyan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: The presence of giant epiglottic cysts can lead to throat discomfort, foreign body sensation within the throat and respiratory distress. However, asymptomatic sufferers who remain undiagnosed may additionally face demanding situations in airway control during anesthesia emergencies. In intense instances, a tracheotomy may be required.
Case presentation: A 61-year-old male, recognized with heel spur, underwent optionally available arthroscopic osteotomy. However, ventilation was difficult during anesthesia and impossible post-laryngeal mask insertion. Video laryngoscopy revealed a giant epiglottic cyst. Tracheal intubation under video laryngoscopy was eventually successful.
Conclusion: In asymptomatic giant epiglottic cysts, preoperative anaesthetic assessment must be comprehensive, especially regarding the risk of a difficult airway. If the epiglottic cyst is discovered during anaesthesia, a difficult airway should be managed appropriately. Prompt use of video laryngoscopy in difficult airways increases successful intubation probability and appropriate ventilation tools may aid ventilation in cases of failed intubation. However, calling for help in all cases remains paramount.
Aptamer-modified GSH-sensitive honokiol polyprodrug nanoparticles for ovarian cancer-specific targeting therapy
Authors: Guo Chunhua , Cheng Xiaowei , Yang Yuxing , Wang Lijuan , Wang Wenfang , Shao Liping 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Ovarian cancer is a major threat to women's lives. Chinese medicine honokiol (HK) is a polyphenol isolated from Magnolia, which can effectively suppress the growth of ovarian cancer. However, low water solubility and lack of tumor-targeting ability have greatly hindered the clinical application of HK.
Results
Herein, a glutathione (GSH) sensitive HK polyprodrug was prepared by using HK as the backbone. Then, an EpCAM-specific aptamer and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) were conjugated to HK polyprodrug, and the obtained polyprodrug was assembled into nanoparticles in water. The HK polyprodrug-formed nanoparticles achieved high drug loading and GSH-responsiveness drug release. Moreover, after optimization, HK polyprodrug nanoparticles (A/P-PHK NP40) formed by aptamer-modified and PEG-modified prodrug at feed molar ratio at 2: 3 had the highest ability to target EpCAM overexpression ovarian cancer cells. A/P-PHK NP40 also exhibited a higher cell growth inhibition effect in ovarian cancer cells than free HK and control HK nanoparticles.
Conclusion
All in all, this work reported a novel strategy for HK delivery based on microenvironment responsiveness polyprodrug, which provided a potential method for ovarian cancer targeting therapy.
In vivo aphrodisiac efficacy of aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of the leaf and root bark of Citropsis articulata in male Wistar rats
Authors: Amaza Anyase Ronald , Amutuhaire Treasure Angie , Tusiimire Jonans , Amito Vivian Sharon , Ajayi Clement Olusoji , Angupale Jimmy Ronald , Abdelgadir Abdelgadir Alamin , Godwin Anywar , Ogwang Patrick Engeu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
The African cherry orange tree Citropsis articulata Swingle & Kellerman (family Rutaceae) is traditionally used to manage erectile dysfunction. This study aimed to determine the aphrodisiac activity of C. articulata leaves and root bark in male Wistar rats.
Methods
Aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of leaves and root bark were prepared via decoction and soxhlation, respectively. Extracts were administered to the animals at three dose levels, i.e., 100, 500 and 1000 mg/kg. Six male animals (aged 8–12 weeks, weighing 140–200 g) were used in each of the groups. Three animals per group (group B), unlike those immediately sacrificed at the end of 28 days (group A), were left for an extra 14 days without dosing to look out for delayed or sustained efficacy signs. Male sexual behavior, including attraction towards the female, penile erection, mount frequency, and mount latency, was monitored on days 0, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42. At the end of both 28 days and the extra 14 days, the animals were humanely sacrificed via anesthesia with halothane, and their blood was collected for testosterone level analysis, while the sexual organs harvested were assessed grossly and histologically.
Results
Citropsis articulata root bark and leaves increased the attraction towards the female, penile erection, and mount frequency while lowering the mount latency. The plant extracts also increased testosterone levels after 28 days of daily extract administration but greatly lowered the testosterone levels in the animals that were left for an extra 14 days without dosing. Even histologically, there was the first evidence of very active spermatogenesis, which disappeared when the administration of the extract ceased. The administration of C. articulata leaf decoction at a dose of 500 mg/kg significantly increased the testosterone level (14.50 ± 2.53 ng/ml) compared with that of the positive control (4.00 ± 2.70 ng/ml), with a p-value of 0.021 (confidence interval: -19.45 to -1.533).
Conclusion
This study revealed that both the root bark and leaf of Citropsis articulata have aphrodisiac efficacy in male Wistar rats in vitro.
PLK1 overexpression suppresses homologous recombination and confers cellular sensitivity to PARP inhibition
Authors: Pae Sookhee , Sedukhina Anna S , Sugiyama Runa , Atanacio Sarah J , Ohara Tatsuru , Ishii Masato , Minagawa Kimino , Akichjev Romaan , Go Fumie , Chandankeri Zayan , Janjetic Zoran M M , Sato Eri , Yamaura Ayako , Maeda Ichiro , Takeuchi Osamu , Suzuki Nao , Yudo Kazuo , Bernal Juan A , Sato Ko 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The overexpression of Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) is linked to poor clinical outcomes in various malignancies, making it an attractive target for anticancer therapies. Although recent studies suggest PLK1's involvement in homologous recombination (HR), the impact of its overexpression on HR remains unclear. We investigated the effect of PLK1 overexpression on HR using bioinformatics and experimental approaches. Analyzing The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) datasets with the Homologous Recombination Deficiency (HRD) score, we found a positive correlation between PLK1 expression and HRD score, indicating that increased PLK1 expression suppresses HR. To validate these findings, we performed cell line-based experiments, demonstrating that PLK1 overexpression attenuates RAD51 focus formation and HR, as measured by ASHRA in U2OS cells. Given that HR-deficient cells display hypersensitivity to PARP inhibitors, we further confirmed that PLK1 overexpression increases sensitivity to PARP inhibitors, both in CCLE dataset analysis and experiments using U2OS cells. Additionally, analysis of clinical ovarian cancer samples revealed that higher PLK1 expression correlates with increased sensitivity to PARP inhibitors. Our results suggest that PLK1 overexpression suppresses homologous recombination, leading to enhanced sensitivity to PARP inhibition, presenting a potential therapeutic strategy for targeting cancers with overexpression of PLK1.