bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prior antiplatelet is associated with better outcome for acute ischemic stroke patients treated with endovascular treatment: a prospective cohort study in China
Authors: Tan Quandan , He Song , Mao Fengkai , Deng Hongwei , Zheng Danni , Chen Xiaoling , Zhou Junshan , Lin Yapeng , Yang Jie , Wang Xia 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: There has been limited evidence and inconsistent results on the safety and effectiveness of prior antiplatelet (PA) use for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients treated with endovascular treatment (EVT).
Methods: We prospectively enrolled consecutive patients from two comprehensive stroke centers in China from June 2015 to June 2019. The efficacy outcomes were vascular recanalization rate, early neurological function improvement (24-hour NIHSS decreased ≥4), poor prognosis at 90 days (mRS 3-6), and death at 90 days. The safety outcomes were intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was performed with SPSS 22.0.
Results: A total of 298 AIS patients were included. Of them, 54 (18.1%) patients were taking antiplatelet agents before stroke. PA (OR=0.40, 95% CI 0.16-0.98, p=0.046) significantly reduced the three-month death, and this difference persisted after adjusting for clinical confounders (adjusted OR =0.29, 95% CI 0.10-0.83, p=0.021). PA (adjusted OR=0.52, 95% CI 0.26-1.06, p=0.075) was not significantly associated with three-month death or disability. There were no significant differences in successful recanalization, early neurological improvement, ICH and sICH between groups.
Conclusions: For AIS patients with EVT, prior antiplatelet is safe and may reduce the risk of death at three months.
Effect of oral posaconazole on venetoclax plasma concentration and efficacy in patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Guo Mengqi , Du Jingwen , He Yingzhi , Qiu Dezhi , Huang Yuxian , Qin Yinjie 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
BCL-2 was the first gene identified to have antiapoptotic effects and venetoclax is an oral selective BCL-2 inhibitor, which has great potential in the treatment of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who are not candidates for intensive therapy. Notably, posaconazole, an oral antifungal drug, is also a strong factor that can affect blood venetoclax concentrations. To the best of our knowledge, the relationship between BCL-2 expression, posaconazole and venetoclax, as well as the influence of them on treatment efficacy and the prognosis of patients with AML, has not been reported. Therefore, in the present study, the relationship between BCL-2 expression and blood venetoclax concentration was analyzed in 35 patients with AML. BCL-2 mRNA expression levels were examined by reverse transcription quantitative PCR. Blood venetoclax concentrations were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The results revealed that among patients with AML, those with lower primary BCL-2 expression had a higher complete remission (CR) rate (P = 0.005), overall response rate (P < 0.0001) and progression-free survival time (P = 0.04). Posaconazole was revealed to be a strong factor that was able to increase blood venetoclax concentration (P < 0.001) and CR rate in the venetoclax plus posaconazole group compared with that in the venetoclax monotherapy group (P = 0.002); however, no significant difference was identified in the occurrence of adverse reactions between these groups. Among low and high blood venetoclax concentration groups, the event-free survival of the former group was significantly higher (P = 0.013). In conclusion, the results of the present study could be used to guide clinical practice in the treatment of AML.
Progression of chronic kidney disease among adults attending tertiary hospitals in Dodoma, Tanzania
Authors: Katatwire Denis D. , Meremo Alfred 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in resource constrained settings can silently and rapidly progress to end stage kidney disease (ESKD). Thus, it is important to identify patients at risk of CKD progression for appropriate and timely interventions.
Methods
A prospective longitudinal study was conducted among adults with CKD attending nephrology and medical outpatient (MOPD) clinics of two tertiary hospitals in Dodoma, Tanzania between November 2020 to March 2022. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from patient files, as well as measurements of vital signs and face to face interviews conducted at baseline and at follow up. Patients provided urine and blood samples for laboratory investigations at study entry (0) and at 12 months. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed using SPSS software version 26, and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with CKD progression.
Results
A total of 352 participants with median age of 54 (47–59) years were enrolled, the prevalence of CKD progression by a sustained decline in eGFR > 4 ml/min/1.73m2 per year was 28.0% (97/346). For CKD progressors; the baseline median eGFR was 43 (41–49) mL/min/1.73 m2, urine protein creatinine ratio (uPCR) was 0.099 (0.025–0.158) g/g and haemoglobin were 11.7 (9.7–12.6) g/dl. Of the patients with CKD progression, 73(75.3%) patients had diabetes mellitus, 70 (72.2%) of the patients had hypertension, 57 (58.8%) had significant proteinuria and 57 (58.8%) had anaemia. Variables associated with CKD progression after multivariate logistic regression analysis were; diabetes mellitus (OR = 7.02, 95% CI 3.01–16.39, P = 0.001), use of local herbs (OR = 27.98, 95% CI 11.08–70.70, P = 0.001), anaemia (OR = 2.49, 95% CI 1.32–4.68, P = 0.005), proteinuria (OR = 7.51, 95% CI 3.49–16.19 P = 0.001). Half (52.5%) of the patients with CKD progression were found to have left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and a total of 14 (11.9%) patients died during the study period.
Conclusion
The prevalence of CKD progression is high in our settings. Diabetes mellitus, proteinuria, anaemia and use of local herbal medicines were significant risk factors for CKD progression. More than half of the patients who had CKD progression were found to have LVH and few patients died.
Educational anatomical study for transanal total mesorectal excision in cadaveric surgical training
Authors: Ishizaki Tetsuo , Kasahara Kenta , Mazaki Junichi , Udo Ryutaro , Tago Tomoya , Iwasaki Kenichi , Hayashi Yutaka , Nagakawa Yuichi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
This study reported on cadaveric surgical training (CST) focusing on the anatomical knowledge necessary for transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) and educational perspective on our experiences.
Methods
Anatomical findings were collected from three cadaveric surgical training were conducted with 6 male cadavers from 2018 to 2020. All steps of the TaTME process were timed. Specimens were transanally or transabdominally extracted. The trainer rated the total mesorectal excision (TME) quality as complete, near complete, or incomplete.
Results
The number of trainees were 6 surgeons. Their number of years since graduation was 9 (6–19), their experience with conventional TME on live patients was 46 cases (27–202), and their experience with TaTME on live patients was 0 case (0–4). Their set up of the transanal platform was 14 min (7–21), time to resect the anococcygeal ligament was 17 min (6–29), time to resect the retrourethral muscle was 23 min (9–41), time to spare fourth pelvic splanchnic nerves was 11 min (4–28), and total completion of the TaTME was 84 min (59–122). The grade of TME was incomplete in 1 case (11.1%), nearly complete in 1 case (11.1%), and complete in 7 cases (77.8%).
Conclusion
In this study, the anatomical structures necessary for TaTME was identified. We believe that CST for TaTME is a promising educational method for overcoming and performing the characteristic anatomical challenges safely.
Effects of Different Concentrations of Sevoflurane Anaesthesia on Blood Free Hexafluoroisopropanol Levels and Anaesthesia Awakening Period in Adult Rats
Authors: Zhang Min , He Hongxia , Jiang Wei , Tu Faping 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Sevoflurane is metabolized in the body to Hexafluoro-isopropanol(HFIP). The aim of this study was to compare the levels of free HFIP in the blood of rats after inhalation of different concentrations of sevoflurane and the effects on the awakening period of rats, and to investigate the related mechanisms.
Methods: Seventy-four healthy male rats of 8–10 weeks of age were selected. Six rats were used to determine the blood/gas partition coefficient of HFIP. Forty-eight rats were randomly divided into three groups: 0.5 minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) (group S1), 1.0 MAC (group S2), and 1.5 MAC (group S3), with 16 rats in each group. The free HFIP concentration in blood was measured by gas chromatography. Twenty rats were randomly divided into five groupsof four rats each, anesthetized by inhalation of 1.0 MAC sevoflurane for mine field tests, and immunohistochemistry was used to detect glial changes in cognition-related brain regions of rats.
Results: The peak concentration of free HFIP in the blood of rats appeared at an inhalation concentration of 1 MAC (P<0.05), and the total mileage of the mine experiment was the longest in rats anesthetized for 1 h with 1.0 MAC sevoflurane (P<0.05).Expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and IBA1 in cognitively related brain regions was significantly higher in rats anesthetized for 1 h with 1.0 MAC sevoflurane than the other time points (P<0.05).
Conclusions: Free HFIP in the blood of rats reached its peak 1 hour after 1.0 MAC sevoflurane anesthesia was inhaled. Rats showed obvious arousal and excitement at this time, and glial cells and inflammatory factors in cognitively related brain regions were significantly activated.
Institutional Barriers to the Implementation of Children’s Participation in Pakistan under United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC): Qualitative Study in Pakistan
Authors: Rafique Haroon , Zakar Rubeena , Zakar Muhammad Zakria , Fischer Florian 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
One of the core principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is to achieve child participation in matters that concern them. However, the implementation of this principle faces different institutional barriers in Pakistan. This paper, while relying on interviews conducted in Punjab and federal area, attempts to find out what these institutional barriers are and presents an empirical analysis which Pakistan faces in promoting child participation.
Methods
A qualitative study design was used. Primary data was collected from 22 stakeholders in the public sector, NGOs and international organizations working on children’s issues and having knowledge about UNCRC. The data collected from the interviews were interpreted to identify common recurring themes and was further divided into thematic categories.
Results
The findings of this research shed light on significant barriers to child participation rights in Pakistan, highlighting key themes related to stakeholders’ attitudes, approaches toward the significance of children, institutionalization, coordination between federal and provincial levels, and the role of NGOs, civil society, and international organizations.
Conclusions
The research posits that the starting point for all the children specific organizations in Pakistan is to get themselves aware of the idea of importance of children so that they can implement it in the manner envisaged by UNCCRC and with a belief of its importance.
Shadclips:When Parameter-Efficient Fine-Tuning with Multimodal Meets Shadow Removal
Authors: Zhang Xiaofeng , Xu Zishan , Tang Hao , Gu Chaochen , Zhu Shanying , Guan Xinping 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Segment Anything Model (SAM), an advanced universal image segmentation model trained on an expansive visual dataset, has set a new benchmark in image segmentation and computer vision. However, it faced challenges when it came to distinguishing between shadows and their backgrounds. To address this, we proposed ShadClips, which consists of SAM-optimizer and SONet. It has dramatically enhanced SAM’s ability to segment shadow images, differentiating between the background and both soft and hard shadows adeptly. Due to its dependence on pixel point inputs, the SAM-Optimizer interface could do better. This method presents challenges, especially when dealing with long, extended shadows. To make the user experience more intuitive and effective, we incorporated the capabilities of CLIPs. Therefore, simple text descriptions like “A photo of a shadow” can be used to guide the SAM-Optimizer, allowing it to select the most relevant shadow mask from SAM’s comprehensive category list. Meanwhile, we introduce SONet to shadow removal. A large number of experiments on ISTD/SRD prove that the proposed method is effective and satisfactory. The source code of the ShadClips can be accessed from https://github.com/zhangbaijin/SAM-helps-Shadow.
Radial Basis Function-based Quantum Hybrid Classical Generative Adversarial Networks for Enhanced Image Quality and Training Stability
Authors: Xu Zuyu , Yang Tao , Cai Pengnian , Shen Kang , Hu Yuanming , Lv Bin , Chen Shixian , Zhu Yunlai , Wu Zuheng , Wang Jun , Dai Yuehua 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Quantum Generative Adversarial Networks (QGANs), as the quantum version to classical Generative Adversarial Networks, exhibit exponential advantages in certain aspects, garnering considerable attention. However, within this nascent field, challenges persist in the synthesis of image quality and the stability of training in QGANs. In this work, we introduce a Hybrid Quantum Classical Generative Adversarial Network (HQCGAN), incorporating a classical discriminator constructed using Radial Basis Function Neural Networks (RBFNN). Harnessing the superior non-linear data processing capabilities and inherent resilience to image noise of RBFNNs, our HQCGAN significantly enhances its proficiency in generating high-fidelity grayscale images characterized by discrete value distributions. Through a series of meticulous experiments that evaluated the training cross-validation scores and the robustness of the loss functions, we have demonstrated the exceptional performance of our HQCGAN model, especially in the presence of noisy input data. These findings contribute meaningfully to the burgeoning field of quantum generative models, underscoring the vital role played by classical machine learning components in augmenting the overall efficacy of quantum approaches. The incorporation of RBFNNs within a quantum framework in our study offers novel perspectives to address prevailing challenges related to image quality and training stability, marking a substantial progression in the evolution of quantum generative adversarial networks.
Optimization of maintenance and chemical cleaning methods for shipboard seawater desalination plants
Authors: Melnyk Oleksiy , Onishchenko Oleg Oleg , Shumylo Oleksandr , Kuznichenko Serhii , Lohinov Oleh , Bulgakov Mykola , Cheredarchuk Natalia , Shcheniavskyi Gennadiy 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Desalination plants play a critical role in providing fresh water to regions with limited freshwater resources. These plants utilize advanced technologies to extract salt and impurities from seawater, providing a sustainable source of drinking water. This paper discusses optimal maintenance strategies for desalination plants with a particular focus on addressing water supply issues. A detailed analysis of chemical treatment methods is presented, considering the unique aspects of water treatment in desalination processes. The article reviews current approaches, including non-disassembling and disassembling methods, providing a comprehensive overview of their application in desalination. The advantages and disadvantages of each method are discussed in detail, emphasizing their impact on water quality and overall durability of desalination systems. This article is of practical importance in the field of desalination, offering valuable insights for improving maintenance efficiency and solving operational problems, ultimately ensuring the longevity and reliability of desalination plants.
Phase Shift Analysis of Nucleon Scattering on Light Nuclei Using Phase Function Method
Authors: Kumar Lalit , Khachi Anil , Sastri O.S.K.S 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The neutron and proton scattering with stable alpha particles can be modeled as a two-particle system. In this paper, using the Morse function, local interaction potentials for various $\ell$-channels have been constructed directly from scattering phase shifts (SPS) data for light nucleon-nucleus systems. The phase equation for various $\ell$-channels has been numerically solved to obtain SPS. Our research employs an optimization approach encompassing parameter boundary setting, cost function formulation, and optimization routine utilization to achieve optimal model-parameter fitting with experimental data, ensuring clarity and convenience in our analysis. The resonance energies obtained(experimental) from partial cross-section plots for the $p_{1/2}$ and $p_{3/2}$ states in the $n\alpha$ system are 4.10(4$\pm$1) and 0.93(0.89) MeV, respectively, while those in the $p\alpha$ system are 5.31(5$\pm$2) and 1.97(1.96) MeV. While the total cross-section for the $n\alpha$ system matches values available in the literature, that of the $p\alpha$ system follows the correct trend.
Combining Senescence-related lncRNA and Bulk-RNA Transcriptome Sequencing to Construct a Prognostic Model and Identify TSPEAR−AS2 as a Potential Therapeutic Target for Colon Adenocarcinoma Patients
Authors: Liang Xiaoqing , Cai Xing , Zhang Dan , Meng Xuan , Wang Kun , Liu Yin , Hao Mengdi , Li Huimin , Ding Lei 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Senescence, a key characteristic of cancer, significantly influences various processes of tumor initiation and progression. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cancer, particularly their correlation with the prognosis of colon cancer. However, the role of senescence-related lncRNAs (SRLs) in cancer remains unexplored.
Aim
The objective of this study is to establish a prognostic model for colon cancer patients based on senescence-related lncRNAs.
Methods
We utilized univariate Cox analysis and random survival forest variable hunting to identify SRLs with prognostic significance. Subsequently, a multivariate Cox regression analysis was conducted to construct a final prognostic risk score signature. We further validated our risk model using external datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and GSE. Additionally, we developed a nomogram for prognostic assessment and conducted a comprehensive analysis of clinicopathological characteristics, immune cell infiltration, chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity, and somatic mutation landscapes in the low- and high-risk groups. The most significant lncRNA TSPEAR − AS2 was selected and a knockdown cell line stably transfected with this lncRNA was constructed by the lentivirus technique. The function of lncRNA TSPEAR − AS2, which is associated with promoting senescence in cancer cells, was successfully verified by using methods such as CCK8, transwell, scratch assays, clonal formation assays, cell apoptosis rate detection experiment and subcutaneous tumor formation assays in mice.
Results
Upon systematically assessing the interactions between senescence-related lncRNA signatures and colon cancer, we constructed a novel risk model based on four SRLs. In particular, the SRL signature comprising MIR210HG, TSPEAR-AS2, APTR, and ZEB1-AS1 showed promising prognostic ability. The predictive value of our risk model was further confirmed in the validation dataset. Phenotypic assessments and animal experiment in this study have corroborated that suppression of TSPEAR − AS2 expression can curtail the malignant phenotype of CC.
Conclusion
We have successfully established an independent risk model, based on four SRLs (MIR210HG, TSPEAR-AS2, APTR, and ZEB1-AS1), which demonstrating high predictive accuracy for colon cancer patients. To further validate our findings, we focused on the most significant lncRNA, TSPEAR-AS2, conducting both in vivo and in vitro experiments. These experiments confirmed that inhibiting TSPEAR-AS2 expression can reduce the malignant phenotype of CC tumor cells and inhibit tumor formation in mice. Our research presents potential avenues for the development of personalized prediction strategies and the exploration of underlying pathways in colon cancer pathogenesis.
Comprehensive Exploration of Polyvinyl Alcohol-Tannic Acid Self-Assembled Hydrogel-Coated PVDF Membranes for Efficient Oil-Water Emulsion Separation
Authors: Yang Jie , Yan Zhuo , Dai Jiangdong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
With the rapid industrial development worldwide, the volume of oily wastewater, including petroleum spills and industrial effluents, has increased dramatically, posing a threat to ecosystems and human health. Membrane separation technology, known for its advantages of phase-transition-free operation, low energy consumption, and simplicity, has gained rapid popularity in wastewater treatment. This study focused on modifying PVDF membranes using PVA-TA hydrogels with two distinct coordination strategies: TA-Fe3+ coordination and APTMS covalent cross-linking. The resulting composite membranes exhibited superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic properties with high emulsion flux (3800–6900 and 4200–12000 Lm− 2h− 1bar− 1) and separation efficiency (> 98.9% and > 99.3%) for various oil-water emulsions. Notably, the stability of the hydrogel network allowed the composite membranes to maintain elevated fluxes (6847.2 and 10266.7 Lm− 2h− 1bar− 1) and separation efficiencies (97.8% and 99.3%) even after 10 cycles for dichloroethylene-water emulsion. The addition of Fe3+ and APTMS enhances hydrogel stability and roughness, with APTMS contributing to superior wetting and separation performance. This work provides valuable insights into the impact of different coordination mechanisms on hydrogel-coated membranes, offering a foundation for the development of advanced materials in efficient oil-water separation.
Enhanced Relative Discrimination Criterion and RSS-ELM Techniques to Improve the Document Classification
Authors: Anwaar Muhammad , Gilanie Ghulam , Ahmad Faizan , Sharif Wareesa , Shaheen Momina , Ashraf Muhammad , Ali Rafaqat 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The internet is teeming with an ever-increasing amount of text information, which can come in various forms such as words, phrases, terms, patterns, concepts, sentences, paragraphs, and documents. The vast quantity of data can pose a difficulty in terms of organizing and structuring textual data effectively. In existing research work, imbalance in counting the terms hampers the classification results. We prioritize the data that precisely fits into the correct class to reduce the imbalances in the dataset and improve the overall result quality. Significant improvements are noticed in accurately classifying text by maintaining an adequate ratio of text data and using efficient text classification approaches. To improve the generalized ability of ELM, feature Selection and optimization of Deep Learning algorithms produced a great influence on classification. In this paper, the Enhanced Relative Discriminative Criterion (ERDC) and Ringed Seal Search along with Extreme Learning Machine (RSS-ELM) have been proposed for text classification. Experiments are conducted on three text datasets named: Reuter21578, 20 newsgroups, and TDT2 with a different number of classes, which shows proposed ERDC technique presents an average of 91.6% accuracy results among the previous IRDC & RDC techniques. Moreover, the proposed RSS-ELM produced a significant result of around 99.1% as compared to existing CS-ELM and GA-ELM techniques which count an average of 66%, and 54% respectively.