bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and Safety of Transarterial Chemoembolization Combined with PD-1 Inhibitors plus Molecular Targeted Therapies for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Child‒Pugh B
Authors: Huang Jin-Tao , Hong Xin , Hu Di , Zhou Wen-Jie , Yang Hao , Shen Jian , Lv Peng-Hua , Yang Zheng-Qiang , Zhu Xiao-Li 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background and Objectives To assess the efficacy and safety of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) inhibitors plus molecular targeted therapies (MTT) for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with Child-Pugh (CP)-B (score of 7-8).
Methods This multicenter retrospective study enrolled patients with unresectable HCC receivingTACE combined with PD-1 inhibitors plus MTT between January 2019 and December 2022. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to reduce bias between the CP-A and CP-B (score of 7-8) groups. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS)and the secondary outcomes included progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and adverse events (AEs).
Results A total of 416 patients were ultimately included in the study. The median OS was 26.4 months (95% CI, 22.7-30.0) for the overall population during a median follow-up period of 32.5 months. The median OS was greater in patients with CP-A liver function than in patients with CP-B (score of 7-8), but the difference was not statistically significant. After PSM, the OS, PFS, ORR, and DCR of CP-A patients were comparable to those of CP-B (score of 7-8) patients. No significant difference was observed in the incidence of grade 3/4 AEs between the two groups.
Conclusions Unresectable HCC patients with CP-B (score of 7-8) undergoing TACE combined with PD-1 inhibitors plus MTT showed similar clinical activity and safety profiles compared to CP-A patients.
Relationship between non-alcoholic fatty liver and progressive fibrosis and serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Fang Jing-Xian , Han Yu , Meng Jian , Zou Hui-Ming , Hu Xue , Han Yue-Xia , Huang Fang , Gu Qing , Wang Sui-Jun 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Objective
We aimed to analyze the relationship between non-alcoholic fatty liver and progressive fibrosis and serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Methods
A total of 184 patients with T2DM who were hospitalized in the Department of Endocrinology of the ShiDong Clinical Hospital between January 2023 and June 2023 were selected.We compared review of anthropometric, biochemical, and inflammatory parameters and non-invasive scores between groups defined by ultrasound NAFLD severity grades.We determine correlation between 25(OH)D and FLI and FIB-4 score respectively.
Results
Statistically significant differences were seen between BMI, WC, C-peptide levels, FPG, ALT, serum 25(OH)D, TC, HDL, lumbar spine bone density, FLI, and FIB-4 in different degrees of NAFLD. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that 25(OH)D (OR = 1.26, p = 0.001), age (OR = 0.93, P < 0.001) and BMI (OR = 1.04, p = 0.007) were independent predictors of NAFLD in patients with T2DM.
Conclusions
This study revealed the correlation between serum 25(OH)D levels and NAFLD in patients with T2DM. We also demonstrated that serum 25(OH)D levels were negatively correlated with FLI/FIB-4 levels in patients with T2DM with NAFLD, suggesting that vitamin D deficiency may promote hepatic fibrosis progression in T2DM with NAFLD.
Modular Momentum: Assessing the Efficacy of Modular Construction in Alleviating the UK Housing Crisis
Authors: Parisi Luana , Donyavi Sohrab 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This manuscript critically evaluates the potential of modular construction as a viable remedy to the ongoing housing crisis in the UK. With soaring housing prices and a scarcity of affordable options, there is an urgent need to explore innovative solutions to address this pressing issue. The study delves into the feasibility and effectiveness of modular construction in providing cost-efficient and sustainable housing alternatives, particularly for the working-class population. Through a comprehensive analysis of housing price trends, construction methodologies, and stakeholder perspectives, this research aims to illuminate the advantages and limitations of modular construction compared to traditional building techniques. Drawing upon data sourced from construction professionals, case studies, and government records, the study assesses crucial factors such as construction timelines, financial implications, design adaptability, and overall efficacy in tackling the housing crisis. The findings of this study are poised to offer valuable insights into the potential role of modular construction in transforming housing solutions in the UK. By examining the intersection of housing demand, construction practices, and technological advancements, the manuscript seeks to inform decision-making processes in both public and private sectors. Ultimately, the objective is to identify strategies that can facilitate the widespread adoption of modular construction as a sustainable and scalable solution to the housing crisis, in line also with the principles of the circular economy, thereby enhancing access to safe, affordable, and high-quality housing for all segments of society.
Building on the strengths of the mobile renewal system to increase health insurance uptake in Ghana: A qualitative study focusing on potential add-ons
Authors: Ibrahim Fati , Neumann Anne , Mensah Kofi Akohene , Opoku Daniel , Kwawukume Mawumenyo Aku , Nübler Laura , Siegel Martin , Owusu-Dabo Ellis , Quentin Wilm , Struckmann Verena , Waitzberg Ruth 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: The Mobile Renewal System (MRS) has increased insurance renewal rates among Ghana's National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) subscribers. However, population coverage with active NHIS membership remains insufficient for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) ambitions, especially among informal workers. This qualitative study aimed to understand the potential of additional mobile-phone-based tools (add-ons) to further increase NHIS enrolment and renewal rates.
Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with 13 technical experts involved in the development and implementation of the MRS and 17 focus group discussions were held with 96 informal workers in Accra and Kumasi between March and August 2022. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring themes and categories.
Results: Several add-ons were suggested by participants to improve the use of the MRS. These included reminders to renew, mobile registration of new members, and an automatic renewal option. Savings wallet and facility locator. Participants saw these add-ons as beneficial as they could encourage more people to use the MRS and further increase the uptake of the insurance.
For implementing and utilizing the MRS and these add-ons, a reliable technological infrastructure, stakeholder involvement, adequate funding, training, and awareness campaigns were considered crucial. Barriers to utilization of the MRS and add-ons may arise from concerns regarding data protection, transparency, and potential taxes on digital transactions. In addition, individual factors such as experience with mobile phone transactions and knowledge about insurance influenced participants' willingness to use the MRS and the suggested add-ons.
Conclusion: Different mobile phone-based technologies can potentially increase NHIS coverage in Ghana. Implementation should address insurance literacy and build communities’ trust in mobile technology.
Feathered Innovation: Transforming Recycled Keratin into Bioactive Micro/Nanoparticles for Advanced Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Zemljič Lidija Fras , Tušek Lidija , Mešl Anja , Plohl Olivija , Čolnik Maja , Škerget Mojca 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

At present, great importance is attached to the use of waste biomass for the sustainable provision and fractionation of natural resources. This is particularly true for the production of biopolymers to promote the development of novel material products based on sustainability. This increased focus is driven by socio-economic and environmental considerations. Feathers from chickens are regarded as a waste from the poultry meat production sector. These organic wastes can be used as natural keratin sources for applications in the formation of nanoparticles to develop a new generation of multifunctional biocomposites. Thus, in this research keratin was isolated from feathers by extraction in subcritical water (SubCW) at 180°C, 20 bar for 1 h. This recycled keratin was used to develop advanced keratin-based particles. To investigate the complexation ability of keratin, three polyelectrolytes with different functional groups were used for particle synthesis at specific pH values, namely alginate with carboxyl groups, chitosan with amino groups, and penta-ionic sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) with phosphate groups. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) analysis showed that complex formation between keratin-alginate and keratin-chitosan resulted in microparticles, and colloidal particles were formed only in the case of keratin-TPP. The ATR-FTIR spectra of the particles indicate that electrostatic interactions were the driving force for the complex formation between keratin and oppositely charged polyelectrolytes. The antioxidant activity of keratin diminishes upon the incorporation of alginate, chitosan, and TPP. The keratin-TPP particles, identified as optimal, underwent additional assessment as a drug delivery system for the model drug amoxicillin. UV/VIS spectroscopy indicated the successful encapsulation of amoxicillin (encapsulation efficiency of 69.24%), with a gradual release reaching up to 96% over a 6-hour period. Antimicrobial examination showed that the increased inhibition against both E. coli and S. aureus in the drug delivery system compared to pure amoxicillin can be attributed to the successful and controlled release of the drug from the particles. Consequently, these particles exhibit promising potential as a delivery system, offering simultaneous antioxidant and potentially antimicrobial properties.
Cadmium and Chromium Exposure associated with DNA Hypermethylation of p16 Tumour suppressor gene
Authors: Mathur Runjhun , Saini Gaurav , Shukla Sheo Prasad , Jha Abhimanyu Kumar 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This study investigated the environmental impact of urbanization on water quality, focusing on Greater Noida, a rapidly developing region in India. Thirty groundwater samples were collected from five villages during the pre- and postmonsoon seasons to analyze changes in water quality. Concurrently, a case‒control study involving 25 cancer patients and 25 healthy individuals explored the potential health effects of heavy metal exposure through drinking water. Blood samples were analyzed for cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr) concentrations using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Additionally, a paired case‒control study assessed p16 gene promoter hypermethylation in blood samples from individuals exposed to elevated Cd and Cr concentrations. Statistical analyses revealed significant increases in postmonsoon Cr concentrations, exceeding regulatory limits. Cadmium levels were also not correlated with postmonsoon season disease. Blood analysis indicated a strong correlation between p16 hypermethylation and heavy metal exposure. These findings emphasize the critical need for comprehensive monitoring, control measures, and remediation strategies to address environmental contamination and safeguard public health in rapidly urbanizing regions such as Greater Noida.
Single-Cell Data Analysis Reveals Critical Hepatic Cells Subpopulations in
the Progression of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease to Non-Alcoholic
Steatohepatitis
Authors: Zhao Cuijuan , Ji Guixian , Zhao Xingliang , Ma Tengqi , Li Yanhua , Wu Wenbo , Zhou Lu 
Published: May 2024

Aims::
The aim of this study was to reveal the hepatic cell landscape and function in the
progression of NAFLD to NASH.

Background::
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the progressive form and turning point of nonalcoholic
fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which severely causes irreversible cirrhosis as well as hepatocellular
carcinoma. The mechanism underlying the progression of NAFLD to NASH has not been revealed.
Unraveling the mechanism of action of NAFLD-NASH is an important goal in improving the
survival of patients with liver disease.

Objective::
The aim of this study is to discover heterogeneous hepatic cells during the progression of
NAFLD to NASH.

Methods::
Single-nucleus RNA-seq (snRNA-seq) data containing NASH in NAFLD samples were obtained
from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Cell types in liver tissues from NASH
and NAFLD were identified after dimensionality reduction analysis, cluster analysis, and cell annotation.
The cell pathways in which differences existed were identified by analyzing metabolic pathways
in Hepatic cells. We also identified cell subpopulations in Hepatic cells. The developmental trajectories
of Hepatic cells were characterized by pseudotime trajectory analysis. Single-cell regulatory network
inference and clustering analysis identified key transcription factors and gene regulatory networks
in Hepatic cells. Moreover, cell communication analysis determined the potential interactions
between Hepatic cells and immune cells, and heapatic stellate cells.

Results::
Seven cell types were identified in NAFLD and NASH. The proportion of Hepatic cells was
lower in NASH and showed greater energy metabolism and glucose metabolism activity. Hepatic
cells exhibited heterogeneity, showing two cell subpopulations, Hepatic cells 1 and Hepatic cells 2.
Dysregulation of lipid metabolism in Hepatic Cell 2 resulted in lipid accumulation in the liver, which
might be involved in the progression of NAFLD. Four key transcription factors, BHLHE40, NFEL2L,
RUNX1, and INF4A, were primarily found in Hepatic cells 2. The transcription factors within the hepatic
cells 2 subpopulation mainly regulated genes related to lipid metabolism, energy metabolism,
and inflammatory response. The cell communication analysis showed that hepatocyte interactions
with immune cells were associated with inflammatory responses, while interactions with hepatic astrocytes
were associated with liver injury and hepatocyte fibrosis.

Conclusion::
The hepatic cells 2 might promote the progression of NAFLD to NASH by regulating
metabolic activity, which might contribute to liver injury through inflammation
Spirulina Unveiled: A Comprehensive Review on Biotechnological Innovations, Nutritional Proficiency, and Clinical Implications
Authors: Mittal Ravi K. , Krishna Gaurav , Sharma Vikram , Purohit Priyank , Mishra Raghav 
Published: May 2024

Abstract:
This comprehensive review of Spirulina encompasses biotechnology, phycocyanin
production, and purification. Bioactive compounds and vital nutrients are investigated during the
study. The literature examines the potential therapeutic advantages and clinical applications of
Spirulina. This analysis assesses Spirulina consumption and its associated health risks.
The current review offers a comprehensive synthesis of the therapeutic applications as well as
technologies utilized for the extraction and purification of phycocyanin. Moreover, this discourse
delves into the examination of various advantageous techniques for extracting and purifying
phycocyanin, encompassing physical, chemical, and enzymatic methods. The data derived from
a multitude of studies strongly indicate the potential therapeutic applications of phycocyanin,
encompassing its notable attributes as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory agent, anticancer agent,
antiviral agent, antimicrobial agent, antiallergic agent, anti-obesity agent, antihypertensive agent,
and an immunological agent.
Plasma Biomarkers in Neurodegenerative Dementias: Unrevealing the
Potential of Serum Oxytocin, BDNF, NPTX1, TREM2, TNF-alpha, IL-1
and Prolactin
Authors: Olğun Yeşim , Aksoy Poyraz Cana , Bozluolçay Melda , Konukoğlu Dildar , Poyraz Burç Çağrı 
Published: May 2024

Background:
Dementia encompasses a range of neurodegenerative disorders characterized
by cognitive decline and functional impairment. The identification of reliable biomarkers is
essential for accurate diagnosis and gaining insights into the mechanisms underlying diseases.

Objective:
This study aimed to investigate the plasma biomarker profiles associated with Brain-
Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), Oxytocin, Neuronal Pentraxin-1 (NPTX1), Triggering Receptor
Expressed on Myeloid Cells 2 (TREM2), Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), Interleukin-
1 (IL-1) and Prolactin in Alzheimer's disease (AD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB),
frontotemporal dementias (FTD) and healthy controls.

Methods:
Serum levels of the aforementioned biomarkers were analyzed in 23 AD, 28 DLB, 15
FTD patients recruited from outpatient units and 22 healthy controls. Diagnostic evaluations followed
established criteria and standardized clinical tests were conducted. Blood samples were collected
and analyzed using ELISA and electrochemiluminescence immunoassay methods.

Results:
Serum BDNF and oxytocin levels did not significantly differ across groups. NPTX1,
TREM2, TNF-alpha and IL-1 levels also did not show significant differences among dementia
groups. However, prolactin levels exhibited distinct patterns, with lower levels in male DLB patients
and higher levels in female AD patients compared to controls.

Conclusion:
The study findings suggest potential shared mechanisms in dementia pathophysiology
and highlight the importance of exploring neuroendocrine responses, particularly in AD and
DLB. However, further research is warranted to elucidate the role of these biomarkers in dementia
diagnosis and disease progression.
Benders Decomposition-based Coordinated Optimization Method for
Medium and Low Voltage Distribution Network with Photovoltaics Access
Authors: Fu Yu , Yang Weichen , Li Yue , Bai Hao , Cai Yongxiang , Xiao Xiaobing 
Published: May 2024

aims:
From the perspective of improving the economic benefit of the distribution network and ensuring the safe operation of the distribution network, the medium and low voltage optimization model with the goal of reducing the operation cost is established.

background:
Double carbon background and new energy power system policy, a large number of distributed photovoltaic access distribution network caused a great influence, not only on the low voltage distribution network user side power quality impact, photovoltaic full hair also can happen when tide back phenomenon, for the stable operation of the medium voltage distribution network and scheduling, therefore, this paper puts forward a scheduling of the voltage distribution network and low voltage distribution network optimization method, to solve the problems of large-scale distributed photovoltaic access.

objective:
Reducing operating costs and ensuring the stable and safe operation of the distributed network.

method:
The optimization problem of medium and low voltage distribution network is decomposed into the main optimization problems of medium voltage distribution network and the sub-problems of optimizing the low-voltage distribution network. An optimal solution is obtained by coordinating the boundary coupling variables between the two problems and solving them iteratively. Finally, the effectiveness of the coordination algorithm is verified by simulating the medium and low voltage distribution network.

result:
A coordinated optimization method for medium and low voltage distribution network with photovoltaics access.

conclusion:
It reduces the operation cost, ensures the stable and safe operation of the power grid, thus improving the economic benefits.

other:
None
Groningen door dromersogen
Authors: de Jong Raoul 
Published: May 2024

Groningen door dromersogen is een veelkleurig mozaïek van verhalen, die in al hun verscheidenheid één ding met elkaar gemeen hebben: zij vertellen over wat zich schuilhoudt in Stad en Ommeland. In zijn speciaal voor dit boek geschreven bijdragen betrekt Raoul de Jong zijn lezers bij zijn persoonlijke zoektocht naar zijn Surinaamse en Groningse wortels. Zijn verhalen vertellen over een reis naar de tropische binnenlanden, een spirituele reis ook naar de bronnen van een literatuur die in Nederland lange tijd onbekend was en die er nog altijd op wacht om door nieuwe lezers ontdekt te worden. Ook bevat dit boek werk van elf studenten van de Rijksuniversiteit Groningen die zich, begeleid door Raoul de Jong, verdiepten in verhalen in en over Groningen. Hun eigen teksten voeren ons naar onbekende plaatsen in de stad en de provincie, naar episodes uit het bewogen verleden, naar witte wieven, kluizenaars, zwervers en jeneverstokers. Groningen door dromersogen toont hun verbeelding van het Noorden.
Overconfidence and Contract Framing
Authors: Majerczyk Michael , Owens Joel , Waddoups Nathan 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT
Prior contract framing research finds that agents generally choose to provide greater effort under penalty contracts than under economically equivalent bonus contracts. At the same time, many individuals tend to be overconfident in their own abilities, which may alter agents’ expectancies when making effort provision decisions. In this study, we extend the contract framing literature by conducting an experiment in which participants can improve the likelihood of earning a bonus or avoiding a penalty by providing greater costly effort and by performing well on the experimental task. We find that participants who are not overconfident in their ability to perform the task well exhibit the general contract framing effect, whereas overconfident participants do not. This suggests that for work tasks where production is a function of both effort and ability, the preponderance of overconfident individuals consistent with the “better-than-average effect” mutes the effect of contract framing on effort.
Data Availability: Contact the authors.
JEL Classifications: M49; M12; M11.
The History of IFRS in Russia in 1991–2021
Authors: Generalova Natalia V. , Pyatov Mikhail L. , Sokolov Boris I. 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT
The authors analyze the trends in the application of IFRS in Russia in the post-Soviet period between 1991 and 2021. The research relies on Russian regulatory legal acts, scientific and professional publications, and the data describing the development of accounting practices in Russia. The study reviews the scale of proactive adoption of IFRS by Russian companies in the 1990s and 2000s. It also evaluates the legal support of the transition to IFRS in Russia, including the legal requirement of IFRS filing for the consolidated financial statements of Russian companies. The article reviews the Russian accounting standards in terms of their compliance with the IFRS. The authors analyze the adoption of IFRS by the public sector as well as by small and medium-size enterprises. The transition to IFRS was a natural response to the key macroeconomic processes that have changed Russia over the past 30 years of its post-Soviet reality.
Data Availability: Data are available from the public sources cited in the text.
JEL Classifications: M40; M41; M48.