bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing the effect of subsequent bladder cancer following radical surgery for upper tract urothelial carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prognostic studies
Authors: Hu Haopu , Lai Shicong , Wang Mingrui , Tang Xinwei , Lai Chin-hui , Xu Kexin , Xu Tao , Hu Hao 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
To investigate the effect of subsequent bladder cancer (SBCa) following radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC).
Methods
PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were exhaustively searched for studies comparing oncological outcomes between SBCa and non-SBCa patients. Standard cumulative analyses using hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were performed using Review Manager (version 5.3).
Results
Five studies involving 2,057 patients were selected according to predefined eligibility criteria. Meta-analysis of cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) revealed no significant differences between the SBCa group and non-SBCa group. However, subgroup analysis of pT0-3N0M0 patients suggested that people with SBCa have worse CSS (HR = 5.13, 95%CI 2.39–10.98, p < 0.0001)and OS (HR = 4.00, 95%CI 2.19–7.31, p < 0.00001).
Conclusions
SBCa appears to be associated with worse survival in people with early stage UTUC, overall. However, caution must be taken before recommendations are given because this interpretation is based upon very few clinical studies and a small sample. Research sharing more detailed surgical site descriptions, as well as enhanced outcome data collection and improved reporting is required to investigate the nuances further.
Investigating the effect of resveratrol and black grape extract on morphological changes and expression profiles of genes related to Alzheimer's disease in PC12 model cells
Authors: Foroughi saba , shahanipour kahin , Monajemi Ramesh , Ahadi Ali Mohammad 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
The fruit known as Black grape (Vitis vinifera), due to its antioxidant properties, possesses therapeutic effects and is widely consumed around the globe. Resveratrol is a polyphenolic compound with notable efficacy, primarily found in grapes. The objective of this study was to conduct a comparative investigation into the impact of resveratrol and Vitis vinifera extract on the recuperation rate of PC12 cells, a type of Rat adrenal pheochromocytoma cells, that were used as a model for Alzheimer's disease induced by formaldehyde.
Methods
The investigation was conducted by analyzing the biochemical parameters and the expression levels of genes encoding hyperphosphorylation enzymes, namely Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3b) and protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A). Initially, the cells were subjected to formaldehyde modeling, followed by the administration of grape extract and resveratrol.
Results
The findings of this study indicate that both substances under investigation exhibited a notable function in mitigating apoptosis in the modeled cells. Furthermore, the administration of these substances led to a reduction in the extent of the expression of the GSK-3b gene. Moreover, both intervention cohorts exhibited a significant upsurge in the expression of the PP2A gene. The findings of the assessment of the overall antioxidant capacity in the cellular environment demonstrated that the cells subjected to co-treatment with the two compounds exhibited a notable rise in their overall antioxidant capacity.
Conclusions
The findings of the present study corroborate the neuroprotective and antioxidant characteristics of grape and its polyphenolic derivative, which may potentially enhance existing treatment protocols for Alzheimer's disease.
Performance status and end-of-life outcomes in patients with metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer treated with androgen receptor targeted therapy
Authors: Mellgard George , Saffran Nathaniel , Chakrani Zakaria , McCroskery Stephen , Taylor Nicole , Patel Mann , Liaw Bobby , Galsky Matthew , Oh William , Tsao Che-Kai , Patel Vaibhav G. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Androgen receptor targeted therapies (ARTs) are widely preferred over taxane chemotherapy due to their good tolerability and similar efficacy. However, there is a paucity of data that supports the use of ART therapy or describes end-of-life (EOL) outcomes in mCRPC patients with reduced PS (PS) (ECOG ≥ 2).
Methods
We performed a retrospective, single-institution study of 142 patients with mCRPC who received ART therapy between 2010 and 2021. We assessed each record for baseline demographic and clinical information, ART treatment course, and survival and EOL outcomes. Our primary aim was to compare overall survival between the two groups (ECOG > 2 vs. 0-1), and our secondary aim was to describe EOL outcomes. Fisher's Exact Tests and Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to compare baseline characteristics. Cox regression was used to compare overall survival (OS) for patients with ECOG ≥ 2 at the start of treatment with those who had an ECOG of 0 or 1. Descriptive analyses were performed to assess EOL outcomes between the groups.
Results
Patients with mCRPC and decreased PS experienced shorter overall survival on ART, compared to those with higher PS. Moreover, when examining EOL outcomes, a near majority of these patients died in the hospital, with a greater percentage among those with an ECOG ≥ 2.
Conclusion
These findings highlight the need for continual assessment of PS, improved shared decision-making in ART treatment, and additional research exploring the association between PS and EOL outcomes.
Impact of COVID-19 on gamete quality and embryo development in patients with COVID-19 positive undergoing ART
Authors: XJ Zhang , Huang JH , Wan Q , Zhang B , Wen ZN , Qu T , Sun Q , Huang J , Zhou JM , Lei P , Wang Q , Han TT , Meng XQ 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Backgroud:COVID-19 was recognized a public health issue and SARS-CoV-2 was assumed to infect human ovary and cross the blood–testis barrier.
Method:To explore the infection of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in patients’ semen and follicular fluid and its potential clinical outcome. Ten female patients with an average age of 30.7±4.11years and eight male patients with an average age of 32.13±4.45 years diagnosed with COVID-19 and their spouses were negative to COVID-19 were included.
Results: None of ten male and 8 female patients with COVID-19 affecting was absence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in semen and follicular fluid. The sperm parameters, the rates of oocytes maturation, fertilization, cleavage and blastulation between the control and test group was not statistically significant (P>0.05),but the sperm quality, the oocyte maturation and fertilization, the blastulation showed a decline tendency in COVID-19 affected patients.
Conclusion: COVID-19 affection may have an uncertian negative influence on the gamete quality and embryo development. Our new knowledge will help to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on fertility in virus infected patients.
Clinical Presentation and Outcomes of Care in Adults with Diabetic Ketoacidosis Pre-COVID-19 and during-COVID-19 at a Tertiary, Referral Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Sokwalla Sairabanu , Shah Jasmit , Chauhan Sangeeta , Shah Reena , Surani Salim , Njenga Erick , Kunyiha Nancy 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Background
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is a potentially life-threatening diabetic emergency requiring prompt recognition and care. The prognosis of DKA has improved over time with the availability of evidence-based protocols and resources. However, in Kenya, there are limited resources for the appropriate diagnosis and management of DKA, and these are limited to tertiary-level referral facilities. This study aimed to review the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of adult patients admitted with DKA at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, over five years and assess differences in these parameters before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
This was a retrospective study of DKA admissions from January 2017 to December 2021. Patient data were retrieved from the medical records department using ICD-10 codes, and individual details were abstracted on clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of DKA. Comparisons were made between pre-COVID-19 and during COVID-19 durations.
Results
150 patients admitted with DKA were included (n = 48 pre- COVID-19, n = 102 during COVID-19 (n = 23 COVID-19 positive, n = 79 COVID-19 negative)). Median age was 47 years (IQR 33.0, 59.0), median HbA1C was 12.4% [IQR 10.8, 14.6]), and most patients had severe DKA (46%). Most common DKA precipitants were infections (40.7%), newly diagnosed diabetes (33.3%) and missed medication (25.3%). There was a significant difference in pulmonary infections as a DKA precipitant, between the pre- COVID and during COVID-19 pandemic (21.6% during COVID-19 versus 6.3% pre- COVID-19; p = 0.012). Median total insulin dose used was 110.0 units [IQR 76.0, 173.0], and a 100% of patients received basal insulin. The median length of hospital stay was 4.0 days [IQR 3.0, 6.0] and time to DKA resolution was 30.0 hours [IQR 24.0, 48.0]. There were 2 deaths (1.3%), none directly attributable to DKA. Severity of DKA significantly differed between pre- COVID-19, COVID-19 positive and COVID-19 negative DKA (52.2% of COVID-19 positive had moderate DKA compared to 26.6% of COVID-19 negative and 22.9% of Pre-COVID-19 (p = 0.006)).
Conclusion
These findings indicate that even in developing regions, good outcomes can be achieved with the appropriate facilities for DKA management. Clinician and patient education is necessary to ensure early detection and prompt referral to avoid patients presenting with severe DKA. Exploratory studies are needed to assess reasons for prolonged time to DKA resolution found in this study.
Nutrient subsidies restructure coral reef dissolved carbon fluxes via biogeochemical cascades
Authors: Silbiger Nyssa , Donahue Megan , Hagedorn Benjamin , Barnas Danielle , Jorissen Hendrikje , Kerlin Jamie , McClintock Rayna , Nixon Emily , Sparagon Wesley , Zeff Maya , Nelson Craig 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Marine organisms are increasingly recognized as both responding to and driving biogeochemical changes in their environment. The addition of exogenous resources to the ocean, such as nutrients, that alter organismal physiology can lead to biogeochemical cascades wherein these solutes both alter water chemistry directly and indirectly by changing biological processes that influence water chemistry. To quantify how allochthonous nutrients drive biogeochemical cascades, we measured a suite of biogeochemical parameters during synoptic spatial surveys across two reefs in Mo’orea, French Polynesia conducted day and night at both low and high tide in two different seasons. These data were used to build a model that demonstrates how inputs of nutrients to coral reefs via submarine groundwater discharge directly alter reef metabolism with cascading effects on the cycling of dissolved organic and inorganic carbon that regulate productivity, calcification, and the microbial loop.
New okra germplasm for the management of aphids in the diverse ecological landscape of Central Africa
Authors: Abang Albert Fomumbod , Sriniva Ramasamy , Kekeunu Sevilor , Fotso Apollin Kuate , Tenkouano Abdou , Fiaboe Komi , Hanna Rachid , Bilong Charles-Félix Bilong 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Ten okra accessions reported as resistant to aphids were compared in four agro-ecological zones of Cameroon with local varieties used by farmers under field conditions. This study was carried out over two seasons (March - July and September - December 2014) in four locations, representing four Cameroon agro-ecologies. The essence was to evaluate yield performance and test resistance to Aphis gossypii under different agro-ecologies. Aphid populations and yield parameters were evaluated. The R software package metan was activated to do analysis of stability using the multiple environment data. For all data, Breeding Values were predicted using Linear mixed model by performing best linear unbiased prediction on each genotype and for genotype by location interactions. The area under infestation pressure curve was calculated using aphid count data and the values used to estimate mean and standard deviation, and subjected to resistance analysis. For aphid abundance the lowest breeding value (-2.20) was for the Local and the highest (+ 2.33) for the most susceptible improved genotype. Two of the genotypes, Local (the most susceptible) and VI060794 (one of the moderately resistant) had the highest yield prediction per hectare and pods per plant. Dissemination of high-yielding and aphid resistant genotypes such as VI060794 stands the change of alleviating poverty and nutrient security within the sub region of Central Africa through reduction in cost of production from use of pesticide. The superior performance of VI060794 across ecological zones could be integrated in IPM of aphids and breeding to improve the performance of local germplasms.
Influence of rare earth (Gd) and transition (Cu) doping in bismuth ferrite for photocatalytic activity and stability performance
Authors: Rajitha Beerelli , Rajendar Vanga , Suvarna R. Padma 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Bismuth ferrite (BFO) and Bi1-xGdxFe1-yCuyO3 (x and y = 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2 wt.%) samples were synthesized by sol–gel method. The crystal structure, surface morphology, and magnetic properties are investigated by X-ray diffraction(XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy disperse X-ray analysis (EDAX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), vibration sample measurement (VSM). The synthesized samples were used for the photocatalytic activity of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye under visible light irradiation and stability performance was examined by four cycles by the photodegradation test.
Age-related changes in motor cortex architecture and accompanying their changes in the content of inflammatory, oxidative, and metabolism markers in the primary cortex of SHR rats as a model of ADHD
Authors: Bogdanska-Chomczyk E , Rowniak M , Wojtacha P , ML Tsai , ACW Huang , Kozlowska A 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder whose exact pathophysiology has not been fully understood yet. Many studies have proposed impairments of the cellular architecture and neuronal activity of brain structures in ADHD subjects with this condition, as also imbalances in the immune system, oxidative stress, and metabolism. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the morphometric analysis of the motor cortex (MC) during brain development in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats (SHRs) and Wistar Kyoto Rats (WKYs) and also to determine the level/activity of selected immune, oxidative stress, and metabolic markers in the PFC of juvenile and mature SHRs vs. WKYs. The results indicate that the most significant MC volume reductions occurred in juvenile SHRs, accompanied by alterations in neuronal density in these brain areas compared to WKYs. In addition, juvenile SHRs displayed elevated levels/activity of interleukin-1α (IL-1α), IL-1β, IL-6, serine/threonine-protein mammalian target of rapamycin, RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase, glucocorticoid receptor, malondialdehyde, sulfhydryl groups, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione S-transferase, glucose, fructosamine, iron, lactic acid, lactate dehydrogenase, alanine, and aspartate transaminase. In conclusion, significant changes in the MC morphometry and elevated levels of inflammatory, oxidative, and metabolic markers in PFC might be associated with disrupted brain development vs. maturation in ADHD.
Subject terms: rat, ADHD, motor cortex abnormalities, SHR, brain maturation, neuron density,
Post-Quake Call for Action: Developing Core Competencies Matrix for Syrian Health Workers in Emergency Time
Authors: Saeed Hani , Hamid Sulaf , Zoukar Imad , Khiami Adel , Hawat Lama Al , Khoja Mohammad , Khawatmy Hossam , Abdalnour Hani , Dashash Mayssoon 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Health workers are crucial in responding to natural disasters, including earthquakes. Previous work has indicated that the main barriers faced by health workers during all stages of disaster management are poor education and insufficient preparedness. In light of the diverse range of disasters and conflicts impacting Syrian society, it is crucial to promptly equip Syrian health workers with the necessary competencies to effectively manage different forms of disasters. This study aimed to identify the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to respond effectively to an earthquake.
Methods
An exploratory qualitative study was conducted involving nine medical educators from the Medical Education Program at the Syrian Virtual University, specializing in medicine, dentistry, nursing, or pharmacy. The Delphi process was adopted to create a list of competencies.
Results
The study identified 74 competencies (12 knowledge items, 35 skills, and 27 attitudes) essential for health workers to respond effectively to disasters. The final list included 61 competencies for medical doctors, 48 for on-site disaster team, 46 for managers, 44 for nurses, 40 for psychiatric support team, 30 for pharmacists, 29 for dentists, 21 for allied healthcare professionals, and 20 for medical students.
Conclusion
A list of disaster management competencies was identified in the current study. It is hoped that this list will enhance a country’s resilience and provide a better approach to managing future disasters.
Implementing palliative care education into primary care practice: A qualitative case study of the CAPACITI pilot program
Authors: Matthew Midori , Bainbridge Daryl , Bishop Valerie , Sinding Christina , Winemaker Samantha , Kilbertus Frances , Kortes-Miller Kathy , Seow Hsien 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background: CAPACITI is a virtual education program that teaches primary care teams how to provide an early palliative approach to care. After piloting its implementation, we conducted an in-depth qualitative study with CAPACITI participants to assess the effectiveness of the components and to understand the challenges and enablers to virtual palliative care education.
Methods: We applied a qualitative case study approach to assess and synthesize three sources of data collected from the teams that participated in CAPACITI: reflection survey data, open text survey data, and focus group transcriptions. We completed a thematic analysis of these responses to gain an understanding of participant experiences with the intervention and its application in practice.
Results: The CAPACITI program was completed by 22 primary care teams consisting of 159 participants across Ontario, Canada. Qualitative data was obtained from all teams, including 15 teams that participated in focus groups and 21 teams that provided reflection survey data on CAPACITI content and how it translated into practice. Three major themes arose from cross-analysis of the data: changes in practice derived from involvement in CAPACITI, utility of specific elements of the program, and barriers and challenges to enacting CAPACITI in practice. Participants reported that the multifaceted approach of CAPACITI was helpful in teaching them how to apply a palliative approach to care in practice.
Conclusions: Our findings suggest that CAPACITI training increased their identification of patients requiring palliative care, improved communication skills, and enhanced confidence in providing a palliative approach to care. CAPACITI warrants further study on a national scale using a randomized trial methodology.
Evaluation of pasting properties and retrogradation kinetic of a low viscosity potato starch
Authors: Hidalgo Bastián , Koporcic Milenka , Cifuentes Javier , Mujica Bernardita , Castro Melany , Videla Valeria , Quintero Montserrat , Alarcón-Moyano Jessica , Díaz-Calderón Paulo 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
The aim of this study was to characterise a low viscosity potato starch (LVPS) in terms of its pasting properties and the kinetic of retrogradation. The pasting properties of a commercial sample of LVPS were measured by Rapid-Visco-Analysis (RVA), while the kinetics of retrogradation was assessed following changes in gel strength by mechanical tests (after storage 24 h and 168 h, 4°C) and viscoelasticity by dynamic time sweep (4 h, 4°C). These analyses were complemented by measurements of cold-water solubility, thermal properties, infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and polarised microscopy. A sample of native potato starch (NPS) was used as a control for comparison. LVPS showed significant differences in pasting properties compared to NPS, with much lower pasting parameters in LVPS (e.g. final viscosity 57.9 cP in LVPS and 2991.6 cP in NPS). However, the dynamic time sweep showed that LVPS behaved as a strong gel during retrogradation, which was consistent with the higher gel strength values obtained by LVPS during storage. The mechanical and rheological response could be explained by differences in crystallinity and number of oxygen bonds, as suggested by the FTIR spectra. Our results also showed that LVPS is not soluble in cold water, which was consistent with calorimetric data and polarised microscopy images. Therefore, LVPS could be used in applications requiring a starch capable of good mechanical response, but from starchy suspensions with very low viscosity.
Longitudinal gut microbiota composition of South African and Nigerian infants in relation to tetanus vaccine responses
Authors: Iwase Saori C. , Jaspan Heather B. , Happel Anna-Ursula , Holmes Susan P. , Abimiku Alash'le , Osawe Sophia , Gray Clive M. , Blackburn Jonathan M. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Introduction: Infants who are exposed to HIV but uninfected (iHEU) have higher risk of infectious morbidity than infants who are HIV-unexposed and uninfected (iHUU), possibly due to altered immunity. As infant gut microbiota may influence immune development, we evaluated the effects of HIV exposure on infant gut microbiota and its association with tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccine responses.
Methods: We evaluated gut microbiota by 16S rRNA gene sequencing in 278 South African and Nigerian infants during the first and at 15 weeks of life and measured antibodies against TT vaccine by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) at matched time points.
Results: Infant gut microbiota and its success­ion were more strongly influenced by geographical location and age than by HIV exposure. Microbiota of Nigerian infants drastically changed over 15 weeks, becoming dominated by Bifidobacterium longum subspecies infantis. This change was not observed among EBF South African infants. Lasso regression suggested that HIV exposure and gut microbiota were independently associated with TT vaccine responses at week 15, and that high passive antibody levels may mitigate these effects.
Conclusion: In two African cohorts, HIV exposure minimally altered the infant gut microbiota compared to age and country, but both specific gut microbes and HIV exposure independently predicted humoral vaccine responses.