bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Engineered anti-HER2 drug delivery nanosystems for the treatment of breast cancer
Authors: Vanni Silvia , Caputo Tania Mariastella , Cusano Angela Maria , Vita Alessandro , Aliberti Anna , Cocchi Claudia , Mulè Chiara , Principe Sofia , Liverani Chiara , Celetti Giorgia , Micco Alberto , Spadazzi Chiara , Miserocchi Giacomo , Mercatali Laura , Cusano Andrea 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Breast cancer stands as the primary cancer affecting women and the second most prevalent cause of cancer-related fatalities in developed nations. Consequently, there is a pressing demand for the advancement of therapeutic strategies that can be seamlessly integrated into clinical applications. We investigated the effectiveness of an encapsulation and decoration strategy employing biodegradable and biocompatible carriers together with 3D collagen-based culture models. Envisioning the use of nano delivery systems for localized regional release, we explored the feasibility of a light-controlled drug release, assisted by optical fibers.
Materials and methods
PLGA nanoparticles loaded or decorated with trastuzumab were synthesized via a double emulsion protocol and characterized by dynamic light scattering, surface plasmon resonance, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In vitro biological evaluation was then performed on HER2-positive breast cancer cell line BT-474, examining the effect of nanoformulations on cell viability in 2D and 3D collagen scaffold culture models. Cell cycle, apoptosis, cell morphology and distribution and protein expression were analyzed. Finally, a core-offset optical fiber was fabricated and particles release was studied in vitro using light in batch and microfluidic tests.
Results and discussion
The nanoparticles displayed uniform and spherical shape, maintaining stability in DMEM for up to seven days. The successful immobilization of TZ was verified. In vitro trials with BT-474 cells in 2D and 3D models revealed that PLGA nanoparticles encapsulated with TZ demonstrated similar or superior biological activity compared to free TZ. Notably, PLGA functionalized with TZ both internally and on the surface exhibited the highest effectiveness in terms of cell viability, increase of apoptosis markers, and inducing cell quiescence. This affirms the pivotal role of PLGA nanoparticles in preserving the integrity of TZ and enhancing its targeted delivery. Furthermore, we propose a breakthrough fiber-optic technology for the less invasive local delivery of PLGA-based nanocarriers that can be effectively used in clinical practice.
Conclusion
Our studies lay the foundation for future advancements in alternative therapeutic tools for localized breast cancer treatment. The integration of advanced carriers, optical fibers, and microfluidics opens up new possibilities for innovative and targeted therapeutic approaches.
Growth kinetics of an invasive wild cucumber (Echinocystis lobata) and their potential implications for ecosystem biodiversity
Authors: Dołkin-Lewko Alicja , Zajączkowska Urszula 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background:​
Rapid changes in the natural environment due to climate change are reflected in the migration of organisms. All habitat types in wetlands and river valleys are particularly vulnerable to alien species. Among these species is the wild cucumber (Echinocystis lobata), the vine whose geographical range has greatly expanded in recent years across many European countries. In recent decades, in the literature on plant biology, the main focus has been on molecular and biochemical studies conducted primarily on taxa with relatively well-studied genomes. When working on wild vine species that are invasive plants whose genomes are usually poorly researched, it is reasonable to use different experimental strategies. In this situation, it seems most effective to begin research by focusing on issues related to the kinetics and biomechanics of shoots and tendrils, whose movements determine their ability to compete with autochthonous species.
Results:
This study employed the time-lapse video method to evaluate the growth parameters of wild cucumber plants, considering different support densities (5, 20, or 50 cm step size). Additionally, the biometric features of the shoots were analyzed and anatomical studies were performed. We demonstrated that the speed of growth of wild cucumbers depends on the available support, and was the most vigorous with dense supports. At the initial growth stage, both the intensity of nutation movements and stem elongation were lower than those in mature plants.
Conclusions:
Understanding the climbing and growth mechanisms of wild cucumber plants is crucial to developing strategies to limit their expansion. Further research is recommended to delve into the climbing mechanism of this plant, with an emphasis on extending studies to include its growth on natural supports, such as herbaceous plants and trees. These findings contribute to the broader knowledge base required for effective management and conservation efforts against invasive alien species, particularly wild cucumbers.
Bivariate joint modelling for mixed continuous and binary responses in the presence of non-monotone, non-ignorable missingness: The case of prostate cancer
Authors: Liaqat Madiha , Kamal Shahid , Fischer Florian 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Joint modelling for mixed longitudinal responses has played a prominent part in disease decision-making. It is based on a joint strategy of estimating joint likelihood with shared random effects. Non-ignorable missingness in outcomes increases complexity in joint model; a shared parameter model is proposed to incorporate non-ignorable missing data for joint modelling of longitudinal responses and missing data mechanism. Parameters are estimated under the Bayesian paradigm and implemented via Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods with Gibbs sampler. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, the joint model is applied to analyze a prostate cancer dataset. The objective is to assess whether there is an association between two mixed longitudinal biomarkers, which could have important implications for understanding disease progression and guiding treatment decisions. The dataset contains non-monotone missingness pattern. To evaluate the performance and robustness of the proposed joint model, simulation studies are conducted.
Toward More Informed Choices: Analysis of the Side Effects of Female Contraception Options Using Natural Language Processing of Online Reviews
Authors: Groene Nicole , Nickel Audrey , Rohn Amanda E. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore women's online descriptions and evaluations of their experiences with birth control products, utilizing natural language processing (NLP). Focusing on non-favorable reviews, the objective is to shed light on the issues and side effects discussed by women, providing additional information that could aid women and their health care providers in making informed contraception choices.
Methods
Employing topic modeling and descriptive statistics, this study analyzes 19,524 unique patient reviews of female contraceptive products posted on Drugs.com. The study also explores patterns in drug ratings depending on the side effects described and contraception products reviewed.
Results
Topic analysis identifies eight main areas of side effects: weight gain, skin problems, loss of libido, mental health issues, menstrual irregularities, cramps and pain, continuous bleeding, and multiple cause dissatisfaction. Descriptive analyses reveal that female contraceptive products vary greatly in how frequently and firmly their side effects are described by women. Drug ratings, indicative of a product’s impact on reviewers’ well-being, vary substantially with contraception type and prevalent complaints voiced in the reviews.
Conclusion
Although exploratory in nature, the study underscores the value of using NLP to analyze large volumes of online reviews for obtaining qualitative insights into women's experiences with contraceptive products. This method can be a useful tool for helping women and doctors make more informed decisions, despite the inherent risk of bias in online reviews. These findings serve as a preliminary guide, suggesting the need for further research to confirm the links between specific side effects and women’s well-being.
Real-World Data of Cardio-oncologic Interventions for Cardiotoxicity with Oral Oncolytics
Authors: Abboud Karen , Umoru Godsfavour , Trachtenberg Barry , Ajewole Veronica 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Oral cancer therapy-related cardiotoxicity has a wide variety of presentations including arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, and myocardial infarction, but clinical evidence related to its management is limited. The purpose of this IRB-approved, single-center, retrospective, cohort study was to characterize cardio-oncologic interventions for cardiotoxicity related to oral oncolytics.
Methods
The cohort included 67 patients who were admitted to a multi-hospital health system between June 1, 2016 and July 31, 2021, had at least one medical record order of oral oncolytics considered to have cardiotoxic potential, and had an ICD10 code for a cardiotoxic event added to their electronic medical records after initiation of oral oncolytics.
Results
The majority (97%) had pre-existing cardiovascular disease (CVD) or a CV risk factor. The three most common classes of oral oncolytics were aromatase inhibitors (36%), BCR-ABL inhibitors (16%), and VEGFR inhibitors (13%). New-onset or worsening heart failure (HF) (n=31), which occurred after a median of 148 days (Interquartile range (IQR) 43-476 days) was the most common cardiotoxic event. The most frequent interventions were pharmacological treatment of the cardiotoxicity (n=44) and treatment interruption (n=18), but guideline-directed medication therapy for HF could be further optimized.
Conclusion
Pre-existing CVD or CV risk factors predispose oncology patients to cardiotoxicity. Real-world practice reveals that cardiotoxic events require temporary interruption of treatment and initiation of pharmacologic treatment. A multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach that includes discussion of risks/benefits of treatment continuation and initiation of guideline-directed treatment is recommended until high-quality, drug-specific data for monitoring and treatment become available.
Trajectory optimization of flybys of multiple irregular satellites of Jupiter with Galilean moons gravity assist
Authors: Jing Quan , Hao Zhixin , Li Mingtao 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The irregular satellites within the Jupiter system hold high scientific value due to their potential to contain clues about the early evolution of the solar system. This paper proposes a method for designing trajectories capable of flying by multiple irregular satellites. The method is based on beam search, using the virtual trajectory between layers to determine potential flyby targets, and considers both cases with and without Galilean moon gravity assist throughout the entire process, resulting in mission trajectories that meet certain constraints.In the final part, the idea of introducing diversity into the algorithm was used to expand the solution space. Simulation results demonstrate that by increasing the diversity of branches in beam search, the number of flybys of irregular satellites can be significantly augmented. Furthermore, incorporating gravity assist from Galilean moons into the mission design for initial orbits with shorter periods has also been shown to be effective in increasing the number of irregular satellite flybys.
Full Reference Image Quality Assessment Based on Dual-space Multi-feature Fusion
Authors: Wu Xinrong , Shi Zhiming , Jin Yongnu 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

At present, the majority of techniques for assessing image quality are restricted to extracting characteristics from an image in a single space. To increase the precision of the evaluation of image quality, this paper propose a new dual-space multi-feature fusion based approach to full-reference image quality assessment, which simultaneously extracts features in YIQ spaces and L*a*b* spaces. Firstly, to describe the image's brightness and texture difference, the luminance features and slope features are taken out of the luminance channel. We extract chroma features in the color channel to describe the difference in color and saturation of the image. Extracting the image's gradient features to obtain its structural details. Extracting the image's spatial frequency features to represent the distribution differences of different spatial frequencies within the image. Next, a single feature vector is fused by extracting the features in both spaces. Finally, to predict the quality of the image, the random forest model receives as inputs the feature vector and the image's subjective score. Many experiments have been carried out on the four public databases, and contrasted with alternative methods. The experimental findings confirm that the suggested algorithm predicts image quality more accurately. The MATLAB source code and dataset of this article will be published on GitHub, and the corresponding author can be contacted if necessary.
Galectin-3 inhibition reduces fibrotic scarring and promotes functional recovery after spinal cord injury in mice
Authors: Shan Fangli , Ye Jianan , Xu Xinzhong , Liang Chao , Zhao Yuanzhe , Wang Jingwen , Ouyang Fangru , Li Jianjian , Lv Jianwei , Wu Zhonghan , Yao Fei , Jing Juehua , Zheng Meige 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background In the context of spinal cord injury (SCI), infiltrating macrophages assume prominence as the primary inflammatory cells within the lesion core, where the fibrotic scar is predominantly orchestrated by platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRβ+) fibroblasts. Galectin-3, a carbohydrate-binding protein of the lectin family, is notably expressed by infiltrating hematogenous macrophages and mediates cell-cell interactions. Although Galectin-3 has been shown to contribute to the endocytic internalization of PDGFRβ in vitro, its specific role in driving fibrotic scar formation after SCI has not been determined. Methods We employed a crush mid-thoracic (T10) SCI mouse model. Galectin-3 inhibition after SCI was achieved through intrathecal injection of the Galectin-3 inhibitor TD139 or in situ injection of lentivirus carrying Galectin-3-shRNA (Lv-shLgals3). A fibrosis-induced mice model was established by in situ injection of platelet derived growth factor D (PDGFD) or recombinant Galectin-3 (rGalectin-3) into the uninjured spinal cord. Galectin-3 internalization experiments were conducted in PDGFRβ+fibroblasts cocultured in conditioned medium in vitro. Results We identified the spatial and temporal correlation between macrophage-derived Galectin-3 and PDGFRβ in fibroblasts from 3 to 56 days post-injury (dpi). Administration of TD139 via intrathecal injection or in situ injection of Lv-shLgals3 effectively mitigated fibrotic scar formation and extracellular matrix deposition within the injured spinal cord, leading to enhanced neurological outcomes and function recovery after SCI. Furthermore, the fibrosis-inducing effects of exogenous PDGFD in the uninjured spinal cord could be blocked by TD139. In vitro experiments further demonstrated the ability of PDGFRβ+fibroblasts to internalize Galectin-3, with Galectin-3 inhibition resulting in reduced PDGFRβ expression. Conclusions Our findings underscore the pivotal role of macrophage-derived Galectin-3 in modulating the sustained internalized activation of PDGFRβ within fibroblasts, providing a novel mechanistic insight into fibrotic scarring post-SCI.
The relationship between chronotype, insomnia and depressive symptoms in Chinese male prisoners
Authors: He Jin , Zhang Shuqi , Yang Qingzhen , Liu Daoli , Xiao Weixia , Li Hengfen 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to estimate the distribution and prevalence of chronotypes among prisoners who are forced to follow a uniform routine, and to examine the relationship between chronotype, insomnia, and depressive symptoms in a cross-sectional sample of male prisoners in China.
Methods: A total of 1609 male inmates from a men’s prison in Hebei Province, China, participated in this study by completing the Morning and Evening Questionnaire-5 (MEQ-5), Insomnia Index (ISI), and Depression Scale-9 (PHQ-9). Age, time served, insomnia, and depressive symptoms were compared among chronotypes. Binary logistic stepwise regression was used to analyze the factors influencing depression. Additionally, a simple mediation model which included MEQ-5, ISI, and PHQ-9, was analyzed while controlling for age as a covariate.
Results: The prevalence of morning types (MT), neutral types (NT), and evening types (ET) was 47.1%, 46.8%, and 6.1%. Being an ET was significantly associated with younger age and increased symptoms of insomnia and depression (P < 0.05). The relative risk of depression was 2.970-fold (95%CI, 1.724 to 5.116; P < 0.001) higher for ET compared to MT. Mediation analysis showed that insomnia partially mediated the relationship (effect=-0.242, SE=0.030, CI: -0.301 to -0.183) between chronotype and depression and that the direct effect of chronotype on depression was also significant (effect=-0.247, SE=0.034, CI:-0.314 to -0.180).
Conclusions: The prevalence of ET is relatively low in male prisoners. Chronotype have direct effect on depressive symptoms, resetting the late timing of ET may have a positive impact on depression.
RB-based: Link prediction based on the resource broadcast of nodes for complex networks
Authors: Liu zeguang , Yao Yabing , Xu Zhipeng 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
During the process of link prediction, traditional resource allocation methods only consider the influence of common neighbor nodes as transmission paths, while ignoring the impact of the effective resource amount of the topology structure surrounding these common neighbor nodes on link prediction performance. To address this limitation, this paper proposes a complex network link prediction method based on resource broadcast. Firstly, the paper provides a detailed analysis of the topology structure between the source node and the target node, presenting four different transmission paths. Secondly, in order to characterize the initial resources, the paper defines the effective resource amount after transmission through these four paths as the resource broadcast amount between nodes. Lastly, the similarity between nodes is characterized bidirectionally by considering the resource broadcast amount between nodes.Experiments conducted on 9 real network datasets demonstrate that, when compared with 8 other similarity-based indicators, this method achieves better prediction results according to benchmark evaluation indicators.
Vertical Distribution Characteristics and Potential Sources of Atmospheric Pollutants in the North China Plain, China, During the Summer of 2020
Authors: Liu Guohua , Wang Yu 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The source generation mechanism of air pollutants can be studied more in depth by characterizing their evolution and spread. The authors of this study conducted a three-month MAX-DOAS vertical observation in Shijiazhuang City, North China Plain, in the summer of 2020 in response to the long-standing air pollution issues in the region. The vertical distribution profiles of aerosol, NO2, HCHO, and CHOCHO were generated, and the inversion findings showed good agreement with the TROPOMI satellite remote sensing validation, demonstrating the validity and accuracy of the observations. The near-surface boundary layer is home to the majority of the NO2, HCHO, and CHOCHO species. The species' daytime evolution trends varied, with the highest NO2 peaks occurring in the morning and evening commute, the highest HCHO peaks occurring in the morning at 10:00 a.m., and CHOCHO's concentration during the day declined. Two minor aerosol pollution processes took place in Shijiazhuang City during the summer observation period. The elevated concentrations of NO2, CO, and the PM2.5/PM10 ratio during the pollution processes suggest that anthropogenic emissions, particularly the burning of biomass, were responsible for the large number of fine particles generated during the pollution events. Based on the examination of pollutant concentration profiles and meteorological data, it was determined that local emissions and north wind transport were the primary causes of Shijiazhuang's high NO2 values. Meanwhile, the southern region of Shijiazhuang was primarily responsible for the majority of the potential sources of atmospheric HCHO, and local emissions were also a major factor affecting the high CHOCHO values. Shijiazhuang's local near-surface volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are mostly caused by human emissions, although burning biomass and its regional transportation have a greater influence on the middle and upper boundary layers. This study systematically sorted the evolution characteristics and potential sources of pollutants in Shijiazhuang City during the summer based on the joint observations of various pollutants, including NO2, HCHO, and CHOCHO. These results can be used to support the development of appropriate policies for the prevention and control of pollutants in the Shijiazhuang local area of the North China Plain.
Prognostic Analysis of Radiation-Induced Liver Damage Following Carbon- Ion Radiotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Hayashi Kazuhiko , Suzuki Osamu , Wakisaka Yushi , Ichise Koji , Uchida Hirofumi , Anzai Makoto , Hasegawa Azusa , Seo Yuji , Shimizu Shinichi , Ishii Takayoshi , Teshima Teruki , Fujimoto Jiro , Ogawa Kazuhiko 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background: Radiation-induced liver damage (RILD) occasionally occurs following carbon-ion radiotherapy (CIRT) for liver tumors, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), in patients with impaired liver function disease. However, the associated risk factors remain unknown. The present study aimed to determine the risk factors of RILD after CIRT.
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 108 patients with HCC treated with CIRT at the Osaka Heavy Ion Therapy Center between December 2018 and December 2022. RILD was defined as a worsening of two or more points in the Child–Pugh score following CIRT. The median age of the patients was 76 years (range: 47–95 years), and the median tumor diameter was 41 mm (range: 5–160 mm). Based on the pretreatment liver function, 98 and 10 patients were categorized as Child–Pugh class A and B, respectively. We analyzed patients who received a radiation dose of 60 Gy (relative biological effectiveness [RBE]) in four fractions. The median follow-up period was 9.7 months (range: 2.3–41.1 months), and RILD was observed in 11 patients (10.1%).
Results: Multivariate analysis showed that pretreatment Child–Pugh score B (p=0.003, hazard ratio [HR]=6.90) and normal liver volume spared from <30 Gy RBE (VS30 <739 cm3) (p=0.009, HR=5.22) were significant risk factors for RILD. The one-year cumulative incidences of RILD stratified by Child–Pugh class A or B and VS30 <739 cm3 or ≥739 cm3 were 10.3% or 51.8% and 39.6% or 9.2%, respectively.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the pretreatment Child–Pugh score and VS30 of the liver are significant risk factors for RILD following CIRT for HCC.