bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Stress biomarkers in adult patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy on a modified Atkins diet: A prospective study
Authors: Molteberg Ellen , Thorsby Per M , Kverneland Magnhild , Iversen Per Ole , Selmer Kaja K , Hofoss Dag , Nakken Karl O , Taubøll Erik 
Published: August 2023

AbstractObjectiveKetogenic diets like the modified Atkins diet (MAD) are increasingly used in patients with refractory epilepsy. For epilepsy patients, stress is a well‐known seizure‐precipitating factor. New possibilities for measuring biomarkers of stress are now available. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of MAD on endocrine stress biomarkers.MethodsForty‐nine patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy were investigated at baseline and after 12 weeks on MAD. Cortisol and cortisol‐binding globulin (CBG) were measured and free cortisol index (FCI) calculated. We also measured metanephrine, normetanephrine, and methoxytyramine, all markers of epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine, respectively. Changes were analyzed according to sex and antiseizure medications. The different markers at baseline and after 12 weeks of MAD treatment were correlated with seizure frequency and weight loss, respectively.ResultsThe change in total cortisol was modest after 12 weeks on the diet (from 432.9 nmol/L (403.1–462.7)) to 422.6 nmol/L (384.6–461.0), P = 0.6). FCI was reduced (from 0.39 (0.36–0.42) to 0.34 (0.31–0.36), P = 0.001). CBG increased during the study (from 1126.4 nmol/L (1074.5–1178.3) to 1272.5 nmol/L (1206.3–1338.7), P < 0.001). There were no changes in the metanephrines after 12 weeks on the diet. The decrease in FCI was significant only in women, and only observed in patients using nonenzyme‐inducing ASMs. We did not find any correlation between cortisol, CBG, or FCI levels and seizure frequency.SignificanceAfter being on MAD for 12 weeks, FCI decreased significantly. The reduction in FCI may reflect reduced stress, but it may also be an effect of increased CBG. The reasons behind these alterations are unknown. Possibly, the changes may be a result of a reduction in insulin resistance and thyroid hormone levels. Treatment with MAD does not seem to influence “fight or flight” hormones.
Accounting for hysteretic characteristics in P‐delta analysis of structures
Authors: De Francesco Giovanni , Sullivan Timothy J. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractStudies in the literature have shown that P‐delta () effects are highly influenced by the hysteretic characteristics of a structural system. However, international buildings and bridge codes prescribe ‐induced amplification factors, limits for negligible effects and limits for dynamic instability that neglect this influence. As a result, different margins of safety against actions are currently specified for different structural systems, with steel structures, for example, presenting reduced margins of safety with respect to concrete structures. Adopting a sub‐set of the PEER earthquake record database composed of 1964 earthquake records, this paper presents a statistical analysis of displacement amplification ratios for systems with different hysteretic models, fundamental periods and ductility levels. In terms of both elastic and inelastic stability coefficients, limit values of the stability coefficient for negligible effects and dynamic instability are proposed for the most common structural typologies, such as steel, well and poorly detailed reinforced concrete, and self‐centering structures. Analytical estimates of the median, 84th and 98th percentile values of the displacement amplification that take into account the combined effect of stability coefficient, ductility level and hysteretic properties are proposed.
Intelligent multimedia content delivery in 5G/6G networks: A reinforcement learning approach
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Jamshaid , Farhan Muhammad , Ullah Farhan , Srivastava Gautam , Jabbar Sohail 
Published: August 2023

AbstractMultimedia content in 5G/6G networks makes safe, confidential, and efficient content delivery difficult. Intelligent systems that adapt to the ever‐changing network environment are needed to distribute multimedia content in these networks. Reinforcement learning (RL) can optimize multimedia content distribution based on network congestion, capacity, and user preferences. This study proposes RL‐based intelligent multimedia content distribution. RL algorithms learn from the network environment and generate optimum judgments incorporating several aspects of the suggested framework. The framework delivers multimedia material securely and privately with great quality. This study provides an intelligent multimedia content delivery architecture that uses RL approaches to solve 5G/6G content delivery problems. This research presents an RL system optimized with the double DQN algorithm having a reward of 51604.93 in 7000 episodes for efficient video file sharing on intracity buses. The RL agent balances network congestion and bandwidth by leveraging multiple sources such as bus and intersection caches and base stations, improving secure multimedia content delivery in 5G/6G networks and enhancing the passenger experience. The study confirms the system's effectiveness using reward and loss metrics and identifies potential future research directions. Future work could explore additional RL algorithms, scalability for larger networks, complex delivery scenarios, and integration with blockchain and edge computing for improved security and efficiency in multimedia content delivery.
The current landscape and future direction of curriculum reform in China
Authors: Luo Shengquan 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThis article outlines the nine curriculum reforms at different stages since the founding of the People's Republic of China. Compared with the previous ones, the ninth curriculum reform emphasizes the operability of Compulsory Education Curriculum Program and Standards (2022 edition), pays attention to the interpretation of Curriculum Standards 2022 and teacher training, focuses on providing rich curriculum resources, and encourages curriculum innovation in regional and school‐based levels. In terms of practical results, the ninth curriculum reform is significant in enhancing five‐dimension integrative education and constructing the high‐quality curriculum system; implementing the “Double Reduction” policy to foster all‐rounded and harmonious development of individuals; and improving educational evaluation to promote educational ecosystem reform. Looking ahead, the Chinese government aims to enrich the content of curriculum to foster the students' moral character by establishing their global vision and comprehensive thinking. The future efforts will focus on optimizing the curriculum implementation, advancing localized implementation, and transformative approaches to nurturing students. Innovative models of curriculum reform will be further explored. Attention will be given to teacher practices, fostering increased enthusiasm and competence among teachers to actively participate in and contribute to the ongoing reform process.
Loess microstructure indication indexes for the study of palaeoclimatic conditions in northwest China
Authors: Jin Deng 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThe Loess Plateau of China, located to the west of the Liupan Mountains and north of the Qinling Mountains stretching across the Yellow River, is the main loess deposit area in Northwest China. The loess in the northwest of China has deposits with large thickness and extensive distribution. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy spectrum analysis of loess have been performed to study the relationship between the loess microstructures and the forming climates Era. The relevant indexes were evaluated including the sand‐dropping speed (Vn), certain sedimentary depths (hn sand particle volume (Vd) and element ratios of Ca/Fe, K/Al, Si/Al and Ca/Mg. The microstructure indexes of loess accumulation and evolution reflect paleoclimate conditions and time scales to a certain extent. The important discovery is the microscopic sand‐dropping speed (Vn) and the sedimentary depth hn) calculation method of different sedimentary ages. These indices are compared with the record of major aeolian‐forming climates from the Guliya ice core, and provide a reliable benchmark for studying climate change It also can be used as important indicators of monsoonal change and environmental evolution reconstruction. The index of sand sedimentation speed (Vn) got from loess microstructure could reflect sand‐dropping speed and loess deposition course. According the article can serve as new indicators of climatic changes of different forming loess layers. It can also be concluded that the climatic indexes obtained from loess microstructure can reflect climate conditions of loess forming. The loess forming climatic parameters are synchronous correspond to Tengger Desert and Guliya ice core for studying climate change, then microscopic parameters can also be used for preliminary analysis of loess climate formation and has be found corresponding evidence, and the loess climatic parameters correspond to the other two indexes. The analysis of loess microstructure indexes is very useful in researching climate change. Loess microstructure indexes can find new indicators and information about the monsoon climate evolution and paleoclimate changes.
Circulating white blood cell traits and colorectal cancer risk: A Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Constantinescu Andrei‐Emil , Bull Caroline J. , Jones Nicholas , Mitchell Ruth , Burrows Kimberley , Dimou Niki , Bézieau Stéphane , Brenner Hermann , Buchanan Daniel D. , D'Amato Mauro , Jenkins Mark A. , Moreno Victor , Pai Rish K. , Um Caroline Y. , White Emily , Murphy Neil , Gunter Marc , Timpson Nicholas J. , Huyghe Jeroen R. , Vincent Emma E. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractObservational studies have suggested a protective role for eosinophils in colorectal cancer (CRC) development and implicated neutrophils, but the causal relationships remain unclear. Here, we aimed to estimate the causal effect of circulating white blood cell (WBC) counts (N = ~550 000) for basophils, eosinophils, monocytes, lymphocytes and neutrophils on CRC risk (N = 52 775 cases and 45 940 controls) using Mendelian randomisation (MR). For comparison, we also examined this relationship using individual‐level data from UK Biobank (4043 incident CRC cases and 332 773 controls) in a longitudinal cohort analysis. The inverse‐variance weighted (IVW) MR analysis suggested a protective effect of increased basophil count and eosinophil count on CRC risk [OR per 1‐SD increase: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.78‐0.99, P = .04; OR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.88‐0.98, P = .01]. The protective effect of eosinophils remained [OR per 1‐SD increase: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.80‐0.97, P = .01] following adjustments for all other WBC subtypes, to account for genetic correlation between the traits, using multivariable MR. A protective effect of increased lymphocyte count on CRC risk was also found [OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.76‐0.93, P = 6.70e‐4] following adjustment. Consistent with MR results, a protective effect for eosinophils in the cohort analysis in the fully adjusted model [RR per 1‐SD increase: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.93‐0.99, P = .02] and following adjustment for the other WBC subtypes [RR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.93‐0.99, P = .001] was observed. Our study implicates peripheral blood immune cells, in particular eosinophils and lymphocytes, in CRC development, highlighting a need for mechanistic studies to interrogate these relationships.
A case of urinary bladder metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma following use of immunotherapy/tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Authors: Miyajima Keiichiro , Urabe Fumihiko , Shunsuke Tsuzuki , Shun Sato , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Asano Koji , Yanagaki Mitsuru , Matsumoto Michinori , Ikegami Toru , Kimura Takahiro 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionHere we present a rare case of hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis to the urinary bladder in a patient with metastatic HCC.Case presentationAn 83‐year‐old man developed gross hematuria during combined treatment with an anti‐programmed death‐ligand 1 inhibitor and an anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor for metastatic HCC. A contrast‐enhanced CT revealed a 15 × 15 mm soft tissue mass protruding from the posterior bladder wall. Cystoscopy further revealed a solitary submucosal mass located on the posterior wall. The patient underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumor. The pathological findings were consistent with a diagnosis of bladder metastasis from HCC. Following a 3‐week interval after the surgical intervention, salvage therapy was resumed.ConclusionDuring follow‐up after TUR‐BT in HCC patients who present with a bladder tumor, the possibility of HCC metastases to the urinary bladder should be excluded.
Zinc citrate‐coated whey protein nanoparticles alleviate kidney damage and the disturbances in inflammatory gene expression in rats
Authors: El‐Nekeety Aziza A. , Hassan Mona A. , Abdel‐Aziem Sekena H. , Hassan Nabila S. , Abdel‐Wahhab Mosaad A. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThis work was conducted to synthesize whey protein nanoparticles (WPNPs) for the coating of zinc citrate (Zn CITR) at three levels and to study their protective role against CCl4‐induced kidney damage and inflammatory gene expression disorder in rats. Seventy male Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into seven groups and treated orally for 4 weeks as follows; the control group, the group treated twice a week with CCl4(5 mL/kg b.w), the groups received CCl4plus WPNPs (300 mg/kg b.w); the group received 50 mg/kg b.w of Zn CITR or the three formulas of Zn CITR‐WPNPs at low, medium and high doses (LD, MD, and HD). Blood and kidney samples were collected for different assays and histological analyses. The fabricated particles were semispherical, with an average size of 160 ± 2.7, 180 ± 3.1, and 200 ± 2.6 nm andζpotential of −126, −93, and −84 mV for ZN CITR‐WPNPs (LD), Zn CITR‐WPNPs (MD), and ZN CITR‐WPNPs (HD), respectively. CCl4significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05) kidney function indices, oxidative stress markers, messenger RNA expression of transforming growth factor‐β1, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐10, IL‐6, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and tumor necrosis factor‐α and significantly decreased (p ≤ 0.05) renal superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase along with the histological changes in the kidney tissues. WPNPs, Zn CITR, and Zn CITR loaded WPNPS showed a protective effect against these complications and Zn CITR‐WPNPs (LD) was more effective. WPNPs can be used effectively for coating Zn CITR at a level of 7 mg/g WPNPs to be used as a supplement for the protection of the kidney against different toxicants to enhance immunity and avoid harm of excess Zn.
Baseline inflammation indexes and neutrophil‐to‐LDH ratio for prediction of the first mobilization failure without plerixafor‐based regimens in multiple myeloma and lymphoma patients: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Dirim Ahmet Burak , Tiryaki Tarik Onur , Altin Soner , Besisik Sevgi Kalayoglu , Hindilerden Ipek Yonal , Nalcaci Meliha 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundMany factors were identified for mobilization failure (MF) in autologous hematopoietic stem‐cell transplantation. To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the efficacy of baseline inflammation indexes and neutrophil‐to‐lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) ratio to predict MF in multiple myeloma (MM) and lymphoma.MethodsA total of 240 patients with lymphoma or MM hospitalized between January 2014 and June 2022 for the first stem cell mobilization were included in this retrospective single‐center study. We evaluated the impact of baseline demographic, clinical, and laboratory data (before granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor and chemotherapy implementation), including neutrophil, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), neutrophil‐to‐C‐reactive protein, and neutrophil‐to‐LDH ratios on MF.ResultsA total of 240 patients were divided into successful (214 patients, 89.16%) and poor mobilizers (26 patients, 10.84%). Poor mobilizers had lower neutrophil, NLR, SII, and neutrophil‐to‐LDH ratios (P values were .001, .022, .001, and .001, respectively). Among these markers, only the neutrophil‐to‐LDH ratio was statistically low in both poor mobilizer MM and lymphoma patients. Receiving operator characteristic curve analysis was performed to evaluate neutrophil, SII, and neutrophil‐to‐LDH ratios for MF. Neutrophil‐to‐LDH ratio had the highest specificity (93.93%, for ≤9.904 cut‐off) compared to the other two variables. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that neutrophil‐to‐LDH ratio ≤ 9.904 (cut‐off) (odds ratio: 7.116, P = .001), neutrophil counts ≤3300/mm3 (cut‐off) (odds ratio: 3.248, P = .021), and lymphoma diagnosis (odds ratio: 2.674, P = .039) were independent risks for MF.ConclusionThe neutrophil‐to‐LDH ratio could be a novel marker in lymphoma and MM patients to predict the first MF. New studies should be conducted for the optimization of this index.
Utilizing ultrasonic vibrations to mitigate membrane fouling in domestic wastewater membrane bioreactors: a mini review
Authors: Frontistis Zacharias , Sarmpanis Anastasios , Lykogiannis Grigoris 
Published: August 2023

AbstractDespite their compact design and superior effluent quality, resulting from the smart integration of separation processes with biodegradation, the widespread adoption of membrane bioreactors is limited due to the persistent issue of membrane fouling. This mini review encapsulates research on using ultrasound‐induced vibration to mitigate membrane fouling in domestic wastewater systems. It discusses the dual physical and chemical mechanisms behind the use of ultrasound and highlights its limitations. Moreover, it proposes several future research directions, including further examination of operating conditions such as ultrasound power and frequency, combining ultrasound with other cleaning strategies scaling up the process, and the need for long‐term experiments, where additional emphasis must be given (i) to the influence of ultrasound irradiation on membrane integrity and efficiency and (ii) estimating the cost of sonochemical integration and operation Finally, it underscores the need for a holistic assessment that considers energy and environmental issues and discusses a proposed roadmap toward implementing ultrasound technology in membrane bioreactor systems. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
X‐linked neuronal migration disorders: Gender differences and insights for genetic screening
Authors: Edey Juliet , Soleimani‐Nouri Payam , Dawson‐Kavanagh Amelia , Imran Azeem Muhamad Saad , Episkopou Vasso 
Published: August 2023

AbstractCortical development depends on neuronal migration of both excitatory and inhibitory interneurons. Neuronal migration disorders (NMDs) are conditions characterised by anatomical cortical defects leading to varying degrees of neurocognitive impairment, developmental delay and seizures. Refractory epilepsy affects 15 million people worldwide, and it is thought that cortical developmental disorders are responsible for 25% of childhood cases. However, little is known about the epidemiology of these disorders, nor are their aetiologies fully understood, though many are associated with sporadic genetic mutations.In this review, we aim to highlight X‐linked NMDs including lissencephaly, periventricular nodular heterotopia and polymicrogyria because of their mostly familial inheritance pattern. We focus on the most prominent genes responsible: including DCX, ARX, FLNA, FMR1, L1CAM, SRPX2, DDX3X, NSHDL, CUL4B and OFD1, outlining what is known about their prevalence among NMDs, and the underlying pathophysiology. X‐linked disorders are important to recognise clinically, as females often have milder phenotypes. Consequently, there is a greater chance they survive to reproductive age and risk passing the mutations down. Effective genetic screening is important to prevent and treat these conditions, and for this, we need to know gene mutations and have a clear understanding of the function of the genes involved. This review summarises the knowledge base and provides clear direction for future work by both scientists and clinicians alike.
Effect of caffeine on hippocampal memory and levels of gene expression in social isolation stress
Authors: Musuroglu Keloglan Seval , Sahin Leyla , Kocahan Sayad , Annac Ebru , Tirasci Nurhan , Pekmezekmek Ayper Boga 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundCaffeine (Cf) antagonizes the adenosine receptors and has neuroprotective properties. The effect of Cf has been seen on stress‐induced deficits of cognitive. In this study, we have investigated the effect of Cf on learning and memory functions induced by social isolation (SI) stress.Materials and methodsIn the present study, 21‐day‐old Wistar albino male rats (n = 28) were divided into four groups: the control (C), the SI, the Cf, and the social isolation + caffeine (SICf). Cf (0.3 g/L) was added to the drinking water of the experimental animals for 4 weeks. The learning and memory functions were assessed using the Morris Water Maze Test (MWMT). Following, was performed histopathological evaluation and determined hippocampal gene expression levels by RT‐qPCR.ResultsAccording to MWMT findings, the time spent in the quadrant where the platform removed was decreased in the SI group compared with the C (p < 0.05). Histological evaluation showed morphological changes in SI by irregular appearance, cellular edema, and dark pycnotic appearance of nuclei in some neurons. However, it was observed that the histological structure of most of the neurons in the SICf group was similar to the C and Cf groups. Hippocampal SNAP25 expression was decreased in the Cf and SICf groups than in the C group (p < 0.05). The GFAP expression was increased in the SICf group than in the C group (p < 0.05). NR2A increased in the SI and SICf groups compared with C and Cf groups (p < 0.05). NR2B expression decreased in the Cf group compared with C and SI groups (p < 0.05).ConclusionsSI impaired spatial memory and causes morphological changes in adolescent rats, but this effect of isolation was not seen in Cf‐treated animals. The effects of SI on NR2A, Cf on NR2B, and SNAP25 are remarkable. Here, we propose that the impaired effect of SI on spatial memory may be mediated by NR2A, but further studies are needed to explain this effect.