bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reactivation of p53 as a radiosensitization strategy for mutant p53 cancers treated with high-LET radiotherapy
Authors: Cooks Tomer , Michaeli Or , Luz Ishai , Vatarescu Maayan , Weizmann Noam , Korotinsky Yevgeniya , Arazi Lior 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Radiation therapy (RT) remains a common treatment for cancer patients worldwide, despite the development of targeted biological compounds and immunotherapeutic drugs. The challenge in RT lies in delivering a lethal dose to the cancerous site while sparing the surrounding healthy tissues. Low linear energy transfer (low-LET) and high linear energy transfer (high-LET) radiations have distinct effects on cells. High-LET radiation, such as alpha particles, induces clustered DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), potentially inducing cell death more effectively. However, due to limited range, alpha-particle therapies have been restricted. In human cancer, mutations in TP53 (encoding for the p53 tumor suppressor) are the most common genetic alteration. It was previously reported that cells carrying wild-type p53 exhibit accelerated senescence and significant rates of apoptosis in response to RT, whereas cells harboring mutant p53 (mutp53) do not. This study investigated the combination of the high-LET RT based on 224Ra sources and APR-246 (a p53 reactivating compound) to treat tumors with mutant p53. Cellular models of colorectal cancer (CRC) or pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) harboring mutant p53, were exposed to alpha particles, and tumor xenografts with mutant p53 were treated using Radium-224 (224Ra) source and APR-246. Effects on cell survival, tumor growth, and apoptosis were assessed. The spread of alpha emitters in tumors was also evaluated as well as the spatial distribution of apoptosis within the treated tumors. We show that mutant p53 cancer cells exhibit radio-sensitivity to alpha particles in vitro and to high-LET RT in vivo. APR-246 treatment enhanced sensitivity to high-LET radiation, leading to reduced tumor growth and increased rates of tumor eradication. Combining high-LET RT with p53 restoration via APR-246 triggered apoptosis, resulting in improved therapeutic outcomes. Further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to provide a promising approach for improving treatment outcomes in patients with mutant p53 tumors.
Evolving Perceptions of Climate Risk in the US Municipal Bond Market
Authors: Adriaens Peter , Li Dan , Saigal Romesh 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The global water cycle has experienced significant changes due to the interplay of climate shifts and human activities, resulting in more frequent and severe droughts and floods. While municipal bonds serve as the primary financing method for public water agencies, the understanding of the impact of climate risks on the bond market remains limited. Analyzing a decade of water bond data (2009-2019), this study offers empirical evidence on the impact of flood and drought risks on municipal bond spreads, which serve as indicators of the additional yield bond investors demand to offset risks and, consequently, the financing costs for water agencies and municipalities. The results reveal that bond markets began factoring in flood risks in 2013, whereas drought risks exhibited a different trend before that year, closely tracking with the actual damage caused by flood and drought hazards. Using a structural credit risk model, we show the moderating effects of water sales and investor perceptions of climate change on climate risk pricing in the bond market. These findings have far-reaching implications for climate risk management and the sustainable stewardship of our water resources, as regions with heightened climate risk exposure are perceived as riskier by market participants, leading to a higher cost of capital.
Impact of functional capacity before hematopoietic stem cell transplantation on the length of hospital stay
Authors: Penna Giana Berleze , Silva Tassiana Costa da , Pedroni Anderson Sartor , Macagnan Fabricio Edler , Ziegler Bruna 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective: To verify the association between pre-HSCT functional capacity and the variables of pulmonary function, fatigue and length of hospital stay.
Methods: This is a cohort study, involving patients admitted to the Bone Marrow Transplantation. The individuals were submitted to an evaluation in the first 24 hours of hospitalization. The length of stay variable was checked on the day of hospital discharge. Functional capacity was assessed through the 6MWT, the 30-second sit-to-stand test (TSL30) was performed to assess the indirect strength of the lower limbs, moreover was used Revised Piper Fatigue Scale and evaluation of the pulmonary function.
Results: The sample consisted of thirty-five individuals (19 male; 54%). Fourteen patients achieved a 6MWT ≥80% predicted. The mean age of the sample was 45.5 ± 15.2 years, and BMI 27.4 ± 5.4 kg/m². Patients who completed a 6MWD below the predicted value showed significantly lower pulmonary function values for the variables PEF(%) (p=0.031), FEV1 (%) (p=0.033) and FEV1/FVC(%) (p=0.027) in relation to the group with better functional capacity. This group showed significantly higher values in the assessment of lower limb fatigue using the Borg scale pre (p=0.008) and post (p=0.004) 6MWT, longer hospitalization time (p=0.0014), but with no significant difference in lower limb muscle strength between groups (p=0.21). A moderate correlation was found between the 6MWD% and FEV1% (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Data indicate that starting HSCT treatment with lower-than-expected physical fitness is associated with lower lung function, greater fatigue in the lower limbs, and longer hospital stays.
Plasma metabolomics signatures of developmental dysplasia of the hip in Tibet plateau
Authors: Guo Ye , li Xiaogang , yang De , Yedron Nyima , Chen Tao , Li Jianchu , Lei Yanming , Li Ping , Ji Jiamei , Shi Li , Cho Ten , Yang Xiao 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a common childhood health complaint, whose etiology is multifactorial. The incidence of DDH is variable and higher in Tibet plateau. Here, we collected plasma samples and studied the metabolomics signatures of DDH.
Methods: Fifty babies were enrolled: 25 with DDH and 25 age-matched non-DDH healthy controls(HC group). We collected plasma samples, laboratory parameters and conducted untargeted metabolomics profiling.
Results: There are many differential metabolites among patients with DDH, including 4-β-hydroxymethyl-4-α-methyl-5-α-cholest-7-en-3-beta-ol, β-cryptoxanthin, α-tocopherol, taurocholic acid, glycocholic acid, 2-(3,4-dihydroxybenzoyloxy)-4,6-dihydroxybenzoate, arabinosylhypoxanthine, leucyl-hydroxyproline, hypoxanthine. The main differential metabolic pathways focused on primary bile acid biosynthesis, arginine and proline metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, histidine metabolism, purine metabolism.
Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first report of metabolomics profile in babies with DHH. By combining the α-tocopherol and taurocholic acid, we could achieve the differential diagnosis of DDH.
The diagnostic performance of ultrasonic S-Detect technology in the diagnosis of BI-RADS-4 breast nodules smaller and larger than 20 mm
Authors: Xing Boyuan , Gu Chen , Fu Chenghui , Zhang Bingyi , Tan Yandi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background: We aimed to explore the value of ultrasonic S-Detect in the differential diagnosis of Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) 4 breast nodules smaller and larger than 20 mm.
Methods: Between November 2020 and November 2022, a total of 382 breast nodules in 312 patients were classified as BI-RADS-4 by conventional ultrasound. Using pathology results as the gold standard, we applied receiver operator characteristics (ROC), sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), accuracy (ACC), positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) to analyze the diagnostic value of BI-RADS, S-Detect, and the two techniques in combination (Co-Detect) in the diagnosis of BI-RADS 4 breast nodules smaller and larger than 20 mm.
Results: There were 382 BI-RADS-4 nodules, of which 151 were pathologically confirmed as malignant, and 231 as benign. In lesions ≤ 20 mm, the SE, SP, ACC, PPV, NPV, area under the curve (AUC) of the BI-RADS group were 77.27%, 89.73%, 85.71%, 78.16%, 89.25%, 0.835, respectively. SE, SP, ACC, PPV, NPV, AUC of the S-Detect group were 95.05%, 78.92%, 83.15%, 67.50%, 95.42%, 0.855, respectively. SE, SP, ACC, PPV, NPV, AUC of the Co-Detect group were 89.77%, 93.51%, 92.31%, 86.81%, 95.05%, 0.916, respectively. The difference of SE, ACC, NPV, AUC between the BI-RADS group and the Co-Detect group was statistically significant (P < 0.05). In lesions > 20 mm, SE, SP, ACC, PPV, NPV, AUC of the BI-RADS group were 88.99%, 89.13%, 88.99%, 91.80%, 85.42%, 0.890, respectively. SE, SP, ACC, PPV, NPV, AUC of the S-Detect group were 98.41%, 69.57%, 86.24%, 81.58%, 96.97%, 0.840, respectively. SE, SP, ACC, PPV, NPV, AUC of the Co-Detect group were 98.41%, 91.30%, 95.41%, 93.94%, 97.67%, 0.949 respectively. The difference in AUC between the BI-RADS group and the Co-Detect group was statistically significant (P < 0.05).
Conclusions: S-Detect combined with BI-RADS is highly effective in the differential diagnosis of BI-RADS 4 breast nodules smaller and larger than 20 mm. However, being especially effective for lesions ≤ 20 mm, S-Detect combined with BI-RADS allows to reduce a number of unnecessary biopsies.
Clinical Outcomes of a Novel Technique for Treatment of Oroantral Fistulas: A 3 year Retrospective Study
Authors: Khalil Ali 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective
The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of the fistula mucosal debridement technique in the treatment of small oroantral fistulas with a diameter of ≤ 3 mm.
Materials and Methods
This retrospective study was carried out on patients who had reported to department of oral and maxillofacial surgery at Almanara University, Latakia, Syria, between September 2019 and September 2022. The sample consisted of patients who had small oroantral fistulas that were treated by the fistula mucosal debridement technique.
Results
The results of this study revealed that the overall healed rate for all oroantral fistulas was 75%. Out of the total number of cases, five fistulas (25%) achieved complete closure after the second debridement, while ten fistulas (50%) demonstrated healing after the third debridement
Conclusion
The use of the oral mucosal debridement method led to complete closure of the fistula opening (healing) in 75% of oroantral fistula cases after the third debridement in this study. This method is simple, easy to apply and does not require surgery or the use of any other materials to close small oroantral fistulas with a diameter of the fistula opening ≤ 3 mm.
Economic Values of Traits in the Breeding Goals Defined by Different Dairy Goat Breeders’ Associations in Kenya
Authors: Waineina Ruth , Ngeno Kiplangat , Ilatsia Evans Deiya , Otieno Tobias Okeno 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The current study aimed at development of breeding objectives and estimation of the economic values for traits of economic importance to various dairy goat breeders associations. This was achieved through the development of a bio-economic model to derive economic values for the selected traits. The input and output parameters used represented the average performance of Saanen, Toggenburg and Alpine breeds. The gross margin was estimated using the R software. Economic values for milk yield (MY, kg), pre-weaning survival rate (PrSr, %), post-weaning survival rate, (PoSR, %), doe survival rate, (DoSR, %), and kidding rate, (Kr, %) were estimated based on fixed flock size and fixed feed resources scenarios. The findings indicate varied gross margin across the breed associations; Saanen (KES 13,656.27), Toggenburg (KES 8,018.53) and Alpine (KES -129.96). In both scenarios, the economic values in selected traits were positive for the three breeds except for milk yield in Alpine, which was negative in both fixed flock and fixed feed resources. The positive economic values of selected traits indicated a unit increase in genetic merit of these traits. The developed bio-economic model was able to estimate the gross margin of Nyanza Dairy Goat Breeders Association (NDGA), Meru Dairy Goat Breeders Association (MDGA) and Dairy Goat Association of Kenya (DGAK) represented by Saanen, Toggenburg and Alpine breeds, respectively, reared under semi-intensive production system. The study offers an opportunity to evaluate genetic and economic merit of alternative strategies for dairy goats reared in semi-intensive production systems managed by various dairy goat breeders associations.
Homogeneous Domination-based Composite Adaptive Control Strategy for Perturbed Chain of Integrators with Mismatched Disturbances
Authors: Xu Xingchen , Zeng Zhigang 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In this paper, a composite adaptive control law by utilizing the homogeneous domination-based and the disturbance observer-based method is designed to stabilize a class of perturbed nonlinear systems. Inspired by the design of homogeneous domination-based approach and adaptive control algorithm with its identification of the uncertain parameters, a series of virtual controllers are elaborately designed in recursive procedures to counteract system nonlinearities and parameter perturbations. Meanwhile, the mismatched disturbances which exist in channels of states, are compensated in a recursive way via a disturbance estimation and compensation method with the recognized parameters. Both the design framework and stability analysis provide a comprehensive idea in practical implementations. Comparative numerical simulation results of a robot arm system verify performances of the proposed method with respect to several investigations.
Biomechanical Analysis of Adjacent Segments after Correction Surgery for Adult Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Wang Dong-hai , Wu Dan-ni , Xin Da-qi , Shi Qin , Wang Wen-xuan , Xing Wen-hua , Yang Hui-lin 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
The biomechanical aspects of adjacent segment degeneration after adult idiopathic scoliosis correction surgery involving postoperative changes in motion and stress of adjacent segments have yet to be investigated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical effects of correction surgery on adjacent segments in adult idiopathic scoliosis by finite element analysis.
Methods
Based on computed tomography data of the consecutive spine from T1–S1 of a 28-year-old male patient with adult idiopathic scoliosis, a three-dimensional finite element model was established to simulate the biomechanics. Two posterior long-segment fixation and fusion operations were designed: Strategy A, pedicle screws implanted in all segments of both sides, and Strategy B, alternate screws instrumentation on both sides. The range of motion, maximum von Mises stress of intervertebral disc, and von Mises stress of the facet joint at the fixation adjacent segment were calculated and compared with data of the preoperative AdIS model.
Results
Correction surgery decreased the stress on the adjacent intervertebral disc, increased stress on the adjacent facet joint, and decreased range of motion of the adjacent segments. A greater decrease of maximum von Mises stress was observed on the distal adjacent segment compared with the proximal adjacent segment. The decrease of maximum von Mises stress and increment of maximum von Mises stress on adjacent facet joints in strategy B was greater than that in strategy A. Under the six operation modes, the change of the maximum von Mises stress on the adjacent intervertebral disc and facet joint was significant. The decrease in range of motion in the proximal adjacent segment was greater than that of the distal adjacent segment, and the decrease of range of motion in strategy A was greater than that in strategy B.
Conclusions
This study clarified the biomechanical characteristics of adjacent segments after adult idiopathic scoliosis correction surgery, and further biomechanical analysis of two different posterior pedicle screw placement schemes by finite element method. Our study provides a theoretical basis for the pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment of adjacent segment degeneration after correction surgery for adult idiopathic scoliosis.
Development of Prediction Model for Structural Behavior and Gradation of Porous Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Lokesh Yateen , Parate Harshad R , M Rajashekhar Swamy H , Ali Humaira 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This study is aimed at developing a prediction model for structural behavior of Porous Asphalt Pavement (PAP) using ABAQUS and also developing ANN model to predict void percentages in Porous Asphalt gradation mixes. Data from the past literature was used to analyze various mixing parameters affecting the properties of Porous Asphalt gradation mix. PAP was analyzed using KENPAVE software and the results revealed that lesser number of allowable repetitions to fatigue and rutting failures were observed for lesser Porous Asphalt Concrete (PAC) layer thicknesses. Nature of subgrade material was found to influence the rutting performance of PAP with clayey soils showing 77.74% reduction in design life of pavement as compared to gravelly soil subgrade. Higher contact pressures resulted in higher tensile stresses at the bottom of PAC layer which in turn reduced the fatigue life of PAP. Results from ABAQUS revealed that increase in void percentage in PAC mix resulted in significant increase in horizontal tensile strain at the bottom of PAC layer by 12.3% and increased tensile strain for 28% void in total mix than for 16% voids. Thus, leading to 92.8% reduction in allowable load repetitions to fatigue failure. Also, increased void percentage led to decrease in vertical stress and deflection in PAP but no significant effect on allowable repetitions to rutting failure was found. Asphalt Pavement mixes were also compiled to develop ANN prediction model. The results indicate good conformity between predicted and actual data with mean square error of 0.109 and coefficient of correlation as 0.994.
Finite element modeling and comparative mechanical analysis of cervical facet joints in humans and macaques
Authors: Zhao Jing , Lv Yuan , Shi Jun , Yang Yang , Hao Yunteng , Zhang Shaojie , Ma Yuan , Li Kun , Li Zhijun , Zhang Yuanzhi , Wang Xing 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Purpose
To establish a finite element model of the adult cervical spine and the adult macaque cervical spine and to compare the stress and displacement changes between the two under six working conditions through finite element analysis around the stress characteristics of the facet joint, to provide a theoretical basis for clinical vertebral body replacement.
Methods
One 40-year-old adult volunteer and one 7-year-old adult male macaque were selected and subjected to spiral CT thin-layer scans, respectively. Moreover, the original cervical spine CT data were imported into Mimics 21.0 to establish a three-dimensional model. The models of cervical spine segments, discs, and ligaments were optimized, assigned, and assembled to organize the mesh. Finally, using Abaqus, the cervical spine finite element model was loaded with 75 N additional load and 1 N-m external dip moment. To discover the mechanical trends and differences by conducting the automated comparison analysis under six working conditions of anterior flexion, posterior extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and proper rotation.
Results
Both human and macaque cervical vertebrae have cervical facet joints. Furthermore, finite element modeling comparison revealed that the uncovertebral joints' stress and displacement changes were generally consistent between the two. The stress and displacement concentrations were all at C6. There was a significant difference between the human and the macaque.
Conclusions
Macaques can be the best alternative animal model for clinical studies of the cervical spine, providing a theoretical basis for clinical cervical vertebral body replacement and other aspects.
Dual-Route Administration of Umbilical Cord MSC- Exosomes Mitigates LPS-Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Mice
Authors: YANG Luyu , Gao Qing , Cao Zhimin , Yang Can , Zhang Li , Pan Yuanming , Zhao Hong , Ma Teng , Ye Huan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a complex syndrome characterized by acute diffuse lung injury and progressive respiratory failure, caused by various intra- and extra-pulmonary factors. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the incidence of ARDS, posing a tremendous threat to human health due to its high mortality rate and lack of effective therapeutic drugs. In recent years, mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-exo) have been considered a new hope for the treatment of ARDS due to their potent immunomodulatory characteristics. Although multiple studies have demonstrated their efficacy and safety, the differential therapeutic effects of various administration routes and doses remain unclear.
This study aimed to investigate the optimal administration route and dosage of MSC-exo for ARDS treatment, with the goal of maximizing therapeutic benefits and providing valuable clinical insights.
Methods: In this study, we aim to establish an ARDS disease model in male C57/BL6 mice and administer exosomes of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells through inhalation, tail vein injection, and dual route administration (inhalation combined with tail vein injection). After perfusing LPS into the trachea for 24 hours, we monitored respiratory function, pulmonary oxygen saturation, lung tissue pathology, and levels of inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and peripheral blood.
Results: Compared with single route administration via inhalation or tail vein injection, dual-route administration significantly improved the respiratory function of ARDS mice, increased blood oxygen saturation, alleviated LPS-induced lung injury, and lowered inflammatory cytokines levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and peripheral blood.
Conclusion: The dual-route administration of umbilical cord MSC-exosomes is more effective in controlling the inflammatory response and alleviating lung injury in LPS-induced ARDS animal models. Inhalation rapidly alleviates pulmonary inflammation with a smaller dose, while intravenous injection better manages the systemic inflammation. This dual-route approach holds promise as a novel ARDS treatment strategy.