bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical benefits of intraoperative radiotherapy for the recurrence of centrally located hepatocellular carcinoma with microvascular invasion
Authors: Tao Changcheng , Zhang Kai , Tao Zonggui , Liu Yue , Wu Anke , Wang Liming , Feng Qinfu , Wu Fan , Rong Weiqi , Wu Jianxiong 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackgroundAlthough the efficacy and safety of intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) in the treatment of malignant tumours, such as breast cancer, have been documented, it remains unclear whether this treatment is effective for centrally located hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with microvascular invasion (MVI).AimsThis study aimed to explore the efficacy and safety of IORT in the treatment of centrally located HCC with MVI.Methods and resultsPatients with centrally located HCC, who underwent surgery between January 2016 and January 2020, were enrolled. The patient cohort was then allocated to two groups: those who underwent IORT combined with liver resection (IORT+LR); or LR alone (LR). Propensity score matching and Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate recurrence‐free survival (RFS), and the log‐rank test was used to determine whether RFS differed between the groups. Subgroup analysis was performed to evaluate differences in RFS and early recurrence rates in patients with different MVI grades. E‐values were generated to measure the sensitivity to unmeasured confounding factors. In total, 97 patients were enrolled, 27 of whom underwent IORT+LR and 70 underwent LR alone. The 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year RFS rates in the IORT+LR group were 66%, 50%, and 32%, respectively, whereas those in the LR group were 54%, 37%, and 26%, respectively. After matching analysis, 23 patients were successfully matched, and RFS was found to be significantly different between the two groups (p = .04). IORT was an independent prognostic factor for RFS (hazard ratio 0.46 [95% confidence interval 0.21–0.99]). In subgroup analysis, RFS between the IORT+LR and LR groups was significantly different in patients with MVI (M1 grade) (p = .0067). The postoperative early recurrence rate was significantly reduced with IORT (p < .05). No serious complications were reported in either group following surgery. Based on E‐values, the results appeared to be robust against unmeasured confounding factors.ConclusionIORT+LR provided safe, feasible treatment for patients with centrally located HCC with MVI, along with an improvement in prognosis and lower early recurrence rates.
A Theoretical Study on the Mechanisms Involved in Catalytic Dehydrogenation and Dehydration of Isopropanol on SrTiO3
Authors: Lizana Ignacio , Bernales Gabriel , Pecchi Gina , Delgado Eduardo J. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe dehydrogenation and dehydration of isopropanol on the SrO and TiO2 terminated surfaces, of the SrTiO3 perovskite, is addressed by periodic DFT calculations in order to shed light on the involved mechanisms. The results show that the dehydrogenation occurs through a mechanism involving the dissociative adsorption of the alcohol on the SrO terminated surface, followed the nucleophilic attack of a hydride species on the previously adsorbed hydrogen atom to form molecular hydrogen and the corresponding carbonyl compound. The dehydration instead occurs by the molecular adsorption of the alcohol on the TiO2 terminated surface, followed by various possible E1 elimination pathways leading to the formation of the corresponding alkene and a water molecule. The article reports a thorough study on the involved mechanisms, including identification of the transition states and intermediates along the reaction paths, and evaluation of the respective activation barriers, as well. Thus, this article provides significant insights about the mechanisms of dehydrogenation and dehydration of isopropanol on the SrTiO3, not reported earlier in literature. The calculated barrier energies are in good agreement with experimental values.
Dominant factors in MiniCone, CPT and pile correlations: A data‐based approach
Authors: Shirani Seyed Sajad , Eslami Abolfazl , Ebrahimipour Amirhossein , Karakouzian Moses 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe cone penetration test (CPT) contributes to the design and analysis of piles regarding geometry, installation effect, and pile capacity (shaft and toe resistance). MiniCone, as an alternative to CPT sounding, has been used to carry out field and laboratory investigations by physical modeling. More tests can be practically carried out through light equipment and small soil mass, involving fewer errors caused by boundary conditions. Furthermore, it can be used for in situ testing, such as quality control, assessment of ground improvement, and subgrade characterization. A database comprising MiniCone and CPT records in field and physical modeling is proposed with a variety of cone diameters. The case study records in the database have been obtained from 140 tests compiled from data from 26 sources. The sources include the results of 20 physical modelings and field data from six sites in 10 countries. The data comprise MiniCone and CPT cone tip resistance (), and sleeve friction (). The different cones are used in sandy, silty sand, and clayey soils via simple chambers (1 g), calibration chambers, and frustum confining vessels. In addition, correlations were found in penetration records in terms of physical modeling types, cone diameters, penetration rates, and soil densities. Moreover, and are related to capacities of pile toes and shafts using proper correlation coefficients less than unity, respectively. Correlations and dominant factors in geotechnical practice between MiniCone, CPT, and pile have been reviewed and discussed.
Diurnal and geographic variations of pollinator importance for Cucurbita maxima Duchesne
Authors: Ikemoto Mito , Tanaka Yoshihiro , Kohno Katsuyuki , Yokoi Tomoyuki 
Published: October 2023

AbstractDespite growing awareness of the importance of monitoring wild crop pollinators worldwide, there are still few reports, especially in East Asia. Considering ongoing global warming may change the distribution range and diurnal activity of pollinators, it is necessary to describe current geographic and diurnal patterns. We clarified pollinators of Cucurbita maxima Duchesne (Cucurbitales: Cucurbitaceae) in three geographically distinct (>350 km, minimum) areas in Japan, focusing on diurnal variation. Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae) and Halictidae (Hymenoptera) were observed in all of the experimental gardens. Apis cerana japonica Radoszkowski (Hymenoptera: Apidae) were mainly observed in Mie and Kagoshima, while Bombus diversus diversus Smith (Hymenoptera: Apidae) were observed only in Ibaraki. The peak time of flower visits depended both on bee taxa and area, and interestingly, did not necessarily synchronize with the timing of the highest pollen loads and the probability of stigma contact. In particular, visits and probability of contacting stigmas of Halictidae tended to increase as time passed, whereas pollen grains on their bodies sharply decreased with time; only a few individuals of Halictidae that visit early can become effective pollinators. There were no differences in yields between supplementary hand and natural pollination in all areas, and flower‐enclosure experiments using different mesh sizes clarified that small insects that can go across an approximately 4‐mm mesh may not transport sufficient pollen for fruit set. Our study demonstrated that pollination effectiveness, which is usually regarded as a static value, within a taxon can fluctuate in the space of just several hours. Considering such diurnal patterns can be altered by climate change, we need to carefully monitor the diurnal temporal patterns of pollinators worldwide.
Short‐term effects of sacubitril/valsartan therapy on myocardial oxygen consumption and energetic efficiency of cardiac work in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Nesterov Sergey V. , Räty Johanna , Nammas Wail , Maaniitty Teemu , Galloo Xavier , Stassen Jan , Laurila Sanna , Vasankari Tuija , Huusko Jenni , Bax Jeroen J. , Saraste Antti , Knuuti Juhani 
Published: October 2023

AimsWe sought to evaluate the mechanism of angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) sacubitril/valsartan therapy and compare it with a valsartan‐only control group in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).Methods and resultsThe study was a phase IV, prospective, randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group study in patients with New York Heart Association class II–III heart failure and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤35%. During a 6‐week run‐in period, all patients received valsartan therapy, which was up‐titrated to the highest tolerated dose level (80 mg bid or 160 mg bid) and then randomized to either valsartan or sacubitril/valsartan. Myocardial oxygen consumption, energetic efficiency of cardiac work, cardiac and systemic haemodynamics were quantified using echocardiography and 11C‐acetate positron emission tomography before and after 6 weeks of therapy (on stable dose) in 55 patients (ARNI group: n = 27, mean age 63 ± 10 years, LVEF 29.2 ± 10.4%; and valsartan‐only control group: n = 28, mean age 64 ± 8 years, LVEF 29.0 ± 7.3%; all p = NS). The energetic efficiency of cardiac work remained unchanged in both treatment arms. However, both diastolic (−4.5 mmHg; p = 0.026) and systolic blood pressure (−9.8 mmHg; p = 0.0007), myocardial perfusion (−0.054 ml/g/min; p = 0.045), and left ventricular mechanical work (−296; p = 0.038) decreased significantly in the ARNI group compared to the control group. Although myocardial oxygen consumption decreased in the ARNI group (−5.4%) compared with the run‐in period and remained unchanged in the control group (+0.5%), the between‐treatment group difference was not significant (p = 0.088).ConclusionsWe found no differences in the energetic efficiency of cardiac work between ARNI and valsartan‐only groups in HFrEF patients. However, ARNI appears to have haemodynamic and cardiac mechanical effects over valsartan in heart failure patients.
Quercetin‐encapsulated magnetoliposomes: Fabrication, optimization, characterization, and antioxidant studies
Authors: Kar Sweta , Das Sabya Sachi , Singh Sandeep Kumar 
Published: October 2023

AbstractQuercetin (QU) faces challenges in its therapeutic efficacy due to its hydrophobic nature and limited oral bioavailability. Using a Box–Behnken design (BBD) approach, we developed QU‐loaded magnetoliposomes (QMLs) to address these limitations. By encapsulating QU within iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) and liposomes (LPs), we enhanced its hydrophilicity and improved its potential for drug delivery. Through systematic adjustments of phosal, polyvinyl alcohol, and magnetic/IONPs, we optimized the particle size, zeta potential, and iron content of the QMLs. The formulations underwent comprehensive structural characterization using techniques, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐Ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry–thermogravimetric analysis, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis, whereas their morphology was examined through field emission scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, we evaluated the in vitro drug release of the QMLs and antioxidant activity of QU, QU‐loaded LPs, and QMLs using DPPH, 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid), and H2O2 scavenging assays, enabling us to compare their antioxidant potential and the efficiency of QU encapsulation within the magneto LPs.Practical Applications: This research holds significant practical implications, particularly in targeted drug delivery using magnetic liposomes. The developed system shows promise in enhancing cancer therapy, providing localized treatment for inflammation‐related conditions, delivering drugs to the brain to address neurological disorders, promoting wound healing, and incorporating quercetin into skincare products for its antioxidant and antiaging benefits.
Disordered eating in transgender and gender non‐conforming youth: A comparison to community‐based and clinical samples
Authors: Quiñones Isabel C. , Selkie Ellen , Mammel Kathleen A. , Haedt‐Matt Alissa , Klump Kelly L. , Burt S. Alexandra , Van Huysse Jessica L. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractObjectiveThis study investigates eating pathology in transgender and gender non‐conforming (TGNC) youth compared to a community‐based sample and individuals with eating disorders (EDs).MethodParticipants (ages 13–21 years) included TGNC youth from a paediatric gender clinic (N = 97), a demographically matched community‐based sample of cisgender males (N = 97) and cisgender females (N = 97), and treatment‐seeking patients with EDs (N = 112). The Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE‐Q) was used to assess ED cognitions and behaviours.ResultsTransgender and gender non‐conforming participants reported significantly higher EDE‐Q global scores compared to the cisgender samples, but significantly lower than the ED sample. Transgender and gender non‐conforming individuals reported a higher likelihood of objective binge episodes (OBEs) than the cisgender groups, albeit lower than youth with EDs. A substantial proportion of TGNC participants scored in elevated ranges on the EDE‐Q global score (35% ≥ score of 3, 17% ≥ score of 4), significantly higher than cisgender males (0% ≥ score of 3, 0% ≥ score of 4) and females (9% ≥ score of 3, 3% ≥ score of 4).ConclusionsFindings indicate that TGNC youth exhibit increased ED cognitions and OBEs compared to cisgender samples, highlighting the need for screening and addressing ED symptoms in this population.
Lycopene protects against ionizing radiation‐induced testicular damage by inhibition of apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction
Authors: Qu Mingyue , He Qican , Guo Baoshi 
Published: October 2023

AbstractIonizing radiation (IR) is one of the key contributors that cause male infertility by disturbing spermatogenesis. Lycopene, a carotenoid with strong antioxidant properties, was shown to protect against oxidative damage induced by IR in several experimental models. The present study was designed to explore the possible protective effects of lycopene against IR‐induced testicular damage in C57BL/6 mice. Mice were administered lycopene (20 mg/kg) by oral gavage for seven consecutive days prior to a single dose of whole‐body X‐ray irradiation (4 Gy, 1 Gy/min). We observed that lycopene remarkably augmented sperm motility and reduced sperm abnormalities in mice following IR exposure. Histopathological analyses also revealed that lycopene ameliorated the structural damage of seminiferous tubules and enhanced the regeneration of seminiferous epithelium following IR stress. Moreover, lycopene attenuated IR‐induced oxidative stress, as evidenced by a decreasing lipid peroxidation level and an increase in the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase activity. In addition, lycopene reduced the γH2AX expression and the number of TUNEL‐positive cells in the germinal epithelium, as well as restoring the imbalance of Bax/Bcl‐2 expression induced by IR exposure. Furthermore, lycopene prevented mitochondrial membrane potential depolarization and ATP reduction and preserved the activities of mitochondrial complexes I‐IV in the testes of mice after exposure to IR. Lycopene also improved mitochondrial biogenesis in testes of mice exposed to IR, presenting as restored expressions of PGC‐1α, Nrf1, and Tfam. Taken together, our results suggest that lycopene alleviates IR‐induced testicular damage, and the underlying mechanism involves at least in part the inhibition of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and the maintenance of mitochondrial respiration and biogenesis. The beneficial effect of lycopene highlights the therapeutic potential of this plant‐derived antioxidant against impaired spermatogenesis and male infertility induced by IR.
How does a ban on sex‐selective abortions affect child health?
Authors: Dasgupta Aparajita , Sharma Anisha 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBans on sex‐selective abortions are typically implemented to make sex ratios more equitable, but they may have adverse effects on surviving children. We examine the impacts of a ban on prenatal sex selection in India on postnatal health outcomes. We first show that the ban increased the share of female children born to mothers, especially among firstborn female families. Strikingly, we also find that the ban led to a worsening of mortality outcomes for both girls and boys in firstborn female families. In terms of mechanisms, we find that fertility increases in firstborn female families after the ban, pointing to the following channel: firstborn female families are disproportionately affected by the ban and are more likely to use the son‐biased fertility stopping rule to achieve a desired number of sons. Children in firstborn female families likely face greater competition for parental resources, which may worsen their health.
Financial incentives and health provider behaviour: Evidence from a capitation policy in Ghana
Authors: Dzampe Adolf Kwadzo , Takahashi Shingo 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe capitation payment model has been used as a supply‐side cost‐containment tool in controlling physician behaviour. However, little is known regarding its effectiveness in controlling costs and discouraging use of low‐value care. This study seeks to examine whether financial incentives in capitation influence provider behaviour, and if so, whether such behaviour compromises outcomes for inpatients with hypertension. To this end, we evaluate the effect on outpatient visits and inpatient outcomes of the introduction of capitation into a mixed payment system involving diagnosis‐related groups and fee‐for‐service in the Ashanti region of Ghana. We use difference‐in‐differences with fixed effects and event study analysis of claims data over 48 months (2016–2019). We found that providers responded to financial incentives in capitation; outpatient visits were approximately 35% lower. However, we found no significant impact of capitation on inpatient outcomes; that is, the in‐hospital death rate did not increase, and the length of hospital stay (which may be a rough indicator of the severity of illness) also did not increase. These findings indicate that patient health outcomes did not deteriorate. Evidence suggests that the observed reduction in outpatient visits may be in unnecessary or low‐value visits, especially at lower levels of the healthcare system.
Effects of squamous cell carcinoma and smoking status on oropharyngeal and laryngeal microbial communities
Authors: Oberste Maximilian , Böse Brit Elisabeth , dos Anjos Borges Luis Gustavo , Junca Howard , Plumeier Iris , Kahl Silke , Simon Frank , Beule Achim Georg , Rudack Claudia , Pieper Dietmar H. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackgroundStill, little is known about microbial dysbiosis in oropharyngeal and laryngeal tissue as risk factor for development of local squamous cell carcinoma. The site‐specific microbiota at these regions in healthy and cancer tissue and their modulation by environmental factors need to be defined.MethodsThe local microbiota of cancer tissue and healthy controls was profiled by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and statistical analysis using 111 oropharyngeal and 72 laryngeal intraoperative swabs.ResultsOropharynx and larynx harbor distinct microbial communities. Clear effects of both smoking and cancer were seen in the oropharynx whereas effects in the larynx were minor.ConclusionThe distinct microbial communities at larynx and oropharynx partially explain why the effects of cancer and smoking were distinct at those sites. Thus, the use of microbiota supposed to mirror community changes in another target location should be avoided and more studies on the actual cancerous environment are necessary.
How do subjective mortality beliefs affect the value of social security and the optimal claiming ages?
Authors: Dai Tiantian , Sun Wei , Webb Anthony 
Published: October 2023

AbstractHouseholds that postpone claiming Social Security benefits are, in effect, making additional purchases of the Social Security annuity and acquiring valuable longevity insurance. This paper investigates the impact of plausible variations of subjective mortality beliefs on the value of delayed claiming and the optimal claiming ages of retired workers. Using the Health and Retirement Study data, we show that older individuals could, on average, predict their life expectancy correctly; however, the average variance of age of death calculated from subjective mortality tables is 6.2%–14.4% lower than that from cohort life tables. Using numerical optimization techniques, we further show that, theoretically, older households place a lower value on delaying claiming when they have greater confidence in their ability to forecast their age of death. But the magnitude of this effect is not large enough to change their optimal claiming ages, unless they hold extreme subjective mortality beliefs. As a result, we conclude that subjective mortality beliefs alone cannot explain the prevalence of early claiming behaviors.
Analyzing behavioral factors of willingness to pay for sustainability
Authors: Ishaq Mariam , Kolady Deepthi , Grebitus Carola 
Published: October 2023

AbstractConsumption of sustainably produced food enables consumers to contribute to greenhouse gas emission reduction. Using choice experiment data, this study analyzes the effect of socio‐demographics and behavioral factors on consumers' willingness to pay (WTP) for sustainably produced beefsteak. Results show increased WTP for traceable beefsteak raised carbon‐friendly and humanely. Behavioral factors, such as, lifestyle is affecting this WTP more than socio‐demographics and psychographic characteristics. Findings highlight the importance of labeling standards and policies in promoting green consumer behavior targeting lifestyle characteristics.