bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Baseline Suvmax Correlates with Tumor Hypoxia and Patient Outcomes in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: Employing Transcriptomic Gene Signature Analysis
Authors: Ding Jianming , Li Qian , Lin Yuhao , Zheng Xiaobing , Huang Chaoxiong , Hong Jiabiao , Fei Zhaodong , Chen Chuanben 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Objective: To assess the prognostic relevance of the maximum standard uptake value (Suvmax) in Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), establish a gene signature correlated with Suvmax and explore the potential biological mechanisms underlying these associations for predicting clinical outcomes.
Methods: A cohort of 726 NPC patients underwent analysis to determine correlations between Suvmax and various clinical variables, including tumor stage, metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. RNA sequencing data was utilized to identify genes related to Suvmax, which were then used to develop a 'Suv-signature'. Additionally, transcriptome enrichment analysis was conducted to investigate the potential biological mechanisms underlying the observed correlations.
Results:Higher Suvmax values were associated with increased tumor burden and worse prognosis. The 'Suv-signature' consisting of 10 genes, showed a positive correlation with Suvmax and predicted poorer survival outcomes. This signature was highly expressed in malignant epithelial cells and was associated with hypoxia and resistance to radiotherapy. Additionally, the signature showed a negative correlation with immune function.
Conclusion: Suvmax is a valuable prognostic indicator in NPC, with higher values predicting worse outcomes. The 'Suv-signature' offers further prognostic insights, linking glucose metabolism to tumor aggressiveness, treatment resistance, and immune function, and may serve as a potential biomarker for NPC.
HLA-DR4Pred2: An improved method for predicting HLA- DRB1*04:01 binders
Authors: Patiyal Sumeet , Dhall Anjali , Kumar Nishant , Raghava Gajendra P. S. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
HLA-DRB1*04:01 is associated with many diseases including sclerosis, arthritis, diabetes, and Covid19. Thus, it is important to scan binders of HLA-DRB1*04:01 in an antigen to develop immunotherapy, vaccines, and protection against these diseases. One of the major limitations of existing methods for predicting with HLA-DRB1*04:01 binders is that these methods are trained on small datasets. This study presents a method HLA-DR4Pred2 developed on a large dataset containing 12676 binders and an equal number of non-binders. It is an improved version of HLA-DR4Pred, which was trained on a small dataset containing only 576 binders and an equal number of binders.
Results
All models in this study were trained, optimized, and tested on 80% of data called training datasets using five-fold cross-validation; final models were evaluated on 20% of data called validation/independent dataset. A wide range of machine learning techniques have been employed to develop prediction models and achieved maximum AUROC of 0.90 and 0.87 on validation dataset using composition and binary profile features respectively. The performance of our composition based model increased from 0.90 to 0.93 when combined with BLAST search. In addition, we also developed our models on alternate or realistic dataset that contain 12676 binders and 86300 non-binders and achieved a maximum AUROC of 0.99.
Conclusions
Our method performs better than existing methods when we compare the performance of our best model with the performance of existing methods on the validation dataset. Finally, we developed the standalone and online version of HLA-DR4Pred2 for predicting, designing, and virtual scanning of HLA-DRB1*04:01(https://webs.iiitd.edu.in/raghava/hladr4pred2/ ; https://github.com/raghavagps/hladr4pred2) .
Motor State Prediction and Friction Compensation for Brushless DC Motor Drives Using Data-Driven Techniques
Authors: Dasanayake Nimantha Priyamal , Perera Shehara 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Friction compensation has become crucial for robust, dependable, and accurate position and velocity control of motor drives. Large position inaccuracies and vibrations caused by non-characterized friction may be amplified by stick-slip motion and limit cycles. In order to find the governing equations of motor dynamics, which also describe friction, this research applies two data-driven methodologies. Specifically, data obtained from a Brushless DC (BLDC) motor is subjected to the Sparse Identification of Nonlinear Dynamics with control (SINDYc) technique and low-energy data extraction from time-delayed coordinates of motor velocity to determine the underlying dynamics. Next, the identified nonlinear model was compared to a linear model without friction and a nonlinear model that contained the LuGre friction model. The optimal friction parameters for the LuGre model were determined using a nonlinear grey box model estimation approach using the collected data. The three validation datasets taken from the BLDC motor were then used to validate the resultant innovative nonlinear motor model with friction characteristics. Over 90% accuracy in predicting the motor states in all input excitation signals under consideration was demonstrated by the innovative model. Additionally, when compared to a system that was identical but used the LuGre model, a model-based feedback friction compensation technique demonstrated a relative improvement in performance.
A qualitative study exploring how vocational rehabilitation for people with multiple sclerosis can be integrated within existing healthcare services in the United Kingdom
Authors: Perez Blanca De Dios , Booth Vicky , Nair Roshan das , Evangelou Nikos , Hassard Juliet , Ford Helen L. , Newsome Ian , Radford Kate 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
To explore how a vocational rehabilitation (VR) intervention can be integrated within existing healthcare services for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the United Kingdom (UK) National Health Service (NHS).
Methods
Data from 37 semi-structured interviews with 22 people with MS, eight employers, and seven healthcare professionals were analysed using a framework method informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research and an intervention logic model.
Results
Four themes were identified relating to the structure of current NHS services, how to improve access to and awareness of VR services, the collaboration between internal and external networks, and the benefits of integrating VR within the NHS services. Participants identified several implementation barriers such as poor links with external organisations, staffing issues, and lack of funding. To overcome these barriers, participants suggested enablers such as technology (such as apps or online assessments) and collaboration with third-sector organisations to reduce the pressure on the NHS.
Conclusion
Significant organisational changes are required to ensure a successful implementation of a VR intervention within current NHS services. Despite this, the NHS was seen as a trustworthy organisation to offer support that can optimise the health and professional lives of people with MS.
Additive Manufacturing of Polymeric Pressure Die For Rotary Draw Bending Process
Authors: Kaleem Muhammad Ali , Steinheimer Rainer , Frohn-Sörensen Peter , Gabsa Steffen , Engel Prof. Dr. Bernd 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM) possess enormous potential to benefit the manufacturing industry. Presently, Rotary Draw Bending (RDB) is one of the most commonly used industrial process for bending metal tubes. RDB processes are carried out by using customized forming tools which are manufactured according to the shape and size of the tube. This research encompasses design and development of a pressure die by Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) technique. In this research paper, the additively manufactured pressure die is named as ‘AM-pressure die’. The material used to fabricate the AM-pressure die is a thermoplastic polymer (ecoPLA). The mechanical properties of ecoPLA are studied in relation to the process conditions of a RDB process. Feasibility of using AM-pressure die in a RDB process is conducted by stress analysis using Finite Element (FE) simulation in the software ‘Autodesk Inventor’. The design model is imported in tube solver environment of the software ‘PAMSTAMP’ and a complete RDB process is simulated. The AM-pressure die is practically fabricated by FDM 3D printer and experimentally tested on a RDB machine. Practical experiments verify the simulation results. The advantages accrued by using AM-pressure die in a RDB process are discussed. This is an application oriented research intended to widen the avenue of using cost effective and individualized forming tools in RDB processes.
High-performance and economic biodegradable composites based on polybutylene adipate terephthalate and modified lignin
Authors: Mai Van-Dung , Kwon Gihyun , Jang Yewon , Min Jiho , Han Jee-hoon , Kim Sung-Kon 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) is a biodegradable polymer with promising properties, but its wide-spread application is limited by factors such as high cost, suboptimal mechanical characteristics, and slow biodegradation rate. In this study, these limitations are addressed by incorporating low-cost lignin, modified with an isocyanate compound, into PBAT via an extrusion process. By investigating the effects of varying isocyanate content on the lignin surface, the optimal modification conditions at room temperature are identified over a 48-hour period. Additionally, the maximum lignin content (5 wt.%) is determined within the composite to achieve a balance between mechanical, thermal, and biodegradation properties while also considering the economic and environmental feasibility of the polymer composite. The research delved into the examination of both the minimum selling price (MSP) and global warming potential (GWP) for all PBAT-mLigA composites. The optimized PBAT-mLigA composites exhibited a notable reduction of up to 7% in both MSP and GWP when compared to pure PBAT. The predominant determinants influencing the economic and environmental potentials of these composites are the pricing of PBAT and the ratio in which it is incorporated into the proposed composites.
Synergistic Anti-Tumor Efficacy Achieved by Reversing Drug Resistance through the Regulation of the Tumor Immune Microenvironment with IL-12 and Osimertinib Combination Therapy
Authors: Ding Huiqin , Wu Lijuan , Qin Huan , Fu Wenhui , Wang Yajun , Wu Mingyuan , Wang Jiangang , Han Yantao 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Patients receiving osimertinib treatment typically develop resistance around the 10th month after initiation. The most common resistance mechanism is the C797S mutation. Competitive resistance mechanisms identified in T790M-deficient patients include MET amplification, HER2 amplification, aberrant FGFR signaling, BRAF mutation, abnormal activation of insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), and downstream signaling pathway activation (RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR). In this study, we confirmed that IL-12 increases immune cell infiltration in tumor tissue, reduces the number of immunosuppressive and tumor-promoting MDSCs and their subpopulations, promotes immune cells to release more Granzyme B and tumor-killing factor IFN-γ, decreases tumor cell surface expression of PD-L1, improves the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, restores immune surveillance, and enhances cancer cell sensitivity to osimertinib. Simultaneously, the combination of IL-12 with osimertinib exerts synergistic and reversal effects on resistance by inhibiting resistance-related signaling pathways PI3K/AKT/m-TOR and RAF/MEK/MAPK. It may also exert anti-tumor metastasis effects by lowering VEGFR1 levels.
A discrete choice experiment for evidence-based decision-making to Explore Willingness to pay for Covid-19 vaccination
Authors: Tran Quang Vinh , Nguyen Tram Thi Huyen , Nguyen Hiep Thanh , Nguyen Binh Thanh , Pham Van Nu Hanh , Anuratpanich Luerat , Vu Truong Lam , Ta Anh Ngoc Phuong , Nguyen Hieu Thi Thanh , Nguyen Chau Duc Quynh , Nguyen Pol , Vo Nam Xuan , Truong Uyen My Thuc , Tang Hong Kim , Phung Nhat Duc , Vo Trung Quang 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Covid-19 pandemic has caused a massive challenge for global healthcare systems. The longtime solution to prevent the spread of virus is to develop an effective vaccine. To com (WTP). The objective of the present study was to explore the WTP of people aged over 18 for Covid-19 vaccination through a discrete choice experiment (DCE) for evidence-based decision-making. A cross-sectional survey was performed during two mid-weeks in May 2020 in six southeastern provinces in Vietnam. A self-design three-part questionnaire was used to investigate the community. A DCE was designed with twelve vaccine profiles, each one involved four attributes, protection efficacy, duration, side effects and out-of-pocket cost. A binary logistic regression model was applied to predict the probability of choosing a given vaccine. Protection duration posed the highest effect on vaccine choice (prevalence weight 1.2109). The marginal WTP for 10-year protection is US$531.77 (95% CI: 284.31–1485.58). If the vaccine improved to 95% protection for 10 years and had no side effects, the WTP increased to $1466.79. When the self-paid cost increased from US$12.5 to 200, the probability decrease dramatically decreased approximately 21%. This study resulted a high value that southern Vietnamese residents were willing to pay for a vaccine against Covid-19. These findings support decision makers in the implementation of vaccine program in the future.
Optical method to preserve residual hearing in patients receiving a cochlear implant
Authors: Richter Claus-Peter , Cury Joaquin , Rivera Arnaldo , Schneider Rebecca , Tan Xiaodong , Tan Ray 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Worldwide, thousands of patients with severe to profound hearing loss restore their hearing with cochlear implant devices. Newer developments in electrode design and manufacturing, as well as a better understanding of cochlear mechanics, allow for the conservation of critical structures, which often translates into serviceable residual hearing and improve device performance. Monitoring insertion speed and intraluminal pressure helps mitigate some of these challenges. However, the information becomes available after irreparable damage has occurred. Miniaturized cameras allow for real-time navigation, proper placement of the electrode, and preservation of these critical structures. We developed and tested a high-resolution optical system to navigate the intricate anatomy of the cochlea during the electrode insertion. Our device will be compatible with robotic platforms that are already available to insert these electrodes.
Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative electrospun nanofiber membrane promotes diabetic wound healing via macrophage modulation
Authors: He Jibing , Zhou Shasha , Wang Jiaxing , Sun Binbin , Ni Dalong , Wu Jinglei , Peng Xiaochun 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
In the inflammatory milieu of diabetic chronic wounds, macrophages undergo substantial metabolic reprogramming and play a pivotal role in orchestrating the immune response. Itaconic acid, primarily synthesized by inflammatory macrophages as a byproduct in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, has recently gained increasing attention as an immunomodulator. This study aims to assess the immunomodulatory capacity of an itaconic acid derivative, 4-Octyl itaconate (OI), which was covalently conjugated to electrospun nanofibers and investigated through in vitro studies and a full-thickness wound model of diabetic mice.
Results
OI was feasibly conjugated onto chitosan (CS), which was then grafted to electrospun PCL/gelatin (PG) nanofibers to obtain P/G-CS-OI membranes. The P/G-CS-OI membrane exhibited good mechanical strength, compliance, and biocompatibility. In addition, the sustained OI release endowed the nanofiber membrane with great antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activity both in vitro and in vivo. Specifically, the P/G-CS-OI membrane activated nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 (NRF2) by alkylating Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1). This antioxidative response led to macrophage modulation of mitigated inflammatory responses, enhanced phagocytic activity, and recovered angiogenesis of endothelial cells, finally contributing to improved healing of diabetic wounds.
Conclusions
The P/G-CS-OI nanofiber membrane shows good capacity in macrophage modulation and might be promising for diabetic chronic wound treatment.
Development of correlations between various engineering rockmass classification systems using railway tunnel data in Garhwal Himalaya, India
Authors: Azad Md. Alquamar , Najeh Taoufik , Raina Autar , singh Neelratan , Ansari Abdullah , Ali Mujahid , Fissha Yewuhalashet , Gamil Yaser , Singh S K 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Rockmass classifications are an integral part of engineering design and excavation procedures of tunnels and other underground structures. These classifications are directly linked to ground reaction and support requirements, and various classification systems are widely used across the globe. However, as different classifications serve different purposes, it is imperative to establish inter-correlatability between them. Despite the availability of numerous rock mass classifications, there are still gaps in understanding the behavior of rock masses, particularly in complex rockmass conditions. The aim of this study is to bridge this gap by establishing an engineering classification for metamorphic rocks in the Himalayan region. Data from 34 locations along a 618-meter-long railway tunnel in the Garhwal Himalaya of India were collected to evaluate rockmass classes in an adit. Using this data, existing classification systems were reviewed, and new correlations were developed between different rock classifications. The study primarily focuses on local rockmass conditions and examines Rock Mass Rating (RMR), Q-system (Q), Rock Mass Number (Qn), Rock Condition Rating (RCR), Rock Mass Index (RMi), Rock Structure Rating (RSR), and Geological Strength Index (GSI). Our analysis indicates that certain correlations, such as RMR-Q, RMR-RMi, RMi-Q, and RSR-Q, are comparable to those previously established, while others, such as RSR-RMR, RCR-Qn, and GSI-RMR, show weak correlations. These deviations in published correlations may be due to individual parameters of estimation or measurement errors. Furthermore, we found that incompatible classification systems exhibit low correlations. Our study highlights the need to revisit existing correlations, particularly for rockmass conditions that are extremely complex, and the predictability of existing correlations exhibit high variations. In conclusion, our study contributes to a better understanding of rockmass classifications and provides a more comprehensive engineering classification of metamorphic rocks in the Himalayan region. By establishing new correlations between existing classification systems, this study can serve as a guide for future rock engineering projects and aid in developing appropriate excavation techniques.
Solid waste dumpsite leachate and contiguous surface water contain antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli with a high burden of extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) genes
Authors: Adekanmbi Abimbola O. , Rabiu Akeem G. , Olaposi Adedolapo V. , Adeyemi Adedoyin O. , Akinlabi Olabisi C. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Dumpsites generate leachates containing bacteria that may carry antibiotic-resistant genes, such as extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL). However, the contribution of dumpsite leachates in the environmental spread of ESBL genes has not been investigated in greater detail. This study aimed to quantify the impact of Ajakanga dumpsite leachates on the spread of ESBL genes through surface water.
Methods and Results
Escherichia coli isolates obtained from leachates in dumpsites and the accompanying surface water were evaluated for antibiotic resistance and for phenotypic ESBL production using Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion and double disc synergy assays, respectively. The detection of ESBL genes in the isolates was carried out using primer-specific PCR. Of the 32 isolates obtained from leachates and 12 recovered from surface water, 26 and nine were respectively positive for ESBL phenotype. Altogether, the 35 ESBL-producing E. coli carried blaCTX−M, while 21/35 (60%) carried blaTEM. None of the isolates harboured blaSHV. The ESBL-producing isolates showed a high level of resistance to the 3rd generation cephalosporin antibiotics, with low resistance observed to imipenem and azithromycin.
Conclusion
This study found that ESBL-producing isolates from leachates and nearby surface water had identical resistance signatures which indicates that dumpsite leachates can contribute to the spread of ESBL-producing bacteria and their genes in receiving surface water. The review of the guidelines and operational procedures of dumpsites is highly recommended to forestall a public health challenge.
A comparative study of the recurrence rate and complications between mitomycin-C, interferon alpha-2b, and bevacizumab after primary pterygium surgery
Authors: Gharaee Hamid , Varshovi-Jaghargh Iman , Momtahan Solmaz , Sadeghi Javad 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To compare subconjunctival bevacizumab injection, interferon (IFN) alpha-2b administration, and intraoperative mitomycin-C (MMC) administration as adjuvants for reducing the recurrence rate and postoperative complications following pterygium surgery.
Methods
This experimental comparative study involving a double-blinded clinical trial included 63 consecutive patients with primary pterygium who were surgically treated with free conjunctival autograft surgery. In addition to surgical excision, the patients were divided into three groups and treated with subconjunctival bevacizumab (10 mg/ml), subconjunctival IFN alpha-2b, or subconjunctival MMC (0.02 mg/ml). Postoperative outcomes were clinically followed up for 12 months. The main outcomes were the recurrence rate and postoperative complications.
Results
There was no significant difference in the recurrence rate among the three groups. In the bevacizumab group, conjunctival congestion was significantly greater than that in the other groups. No other serious complications were observed in the IFN or MMC groups.
Conclusion
The intraoperative administration of subconjunctival bevacizumab, IFN alpha-2b, and MMC as adjuvants is equally effective at reducing the rate of pterygium recurrence following excision. No significant difference was found in postoperative complications between these three adjuvants.