bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
External Validation of Updated Prediction Models for Neurological Outcomes at 90 Days in Patients with Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Nishioka Norihiro , Yamada Tomoki , Nakao Shunichiro , Yoshiya Kazuhisa , Park Changhwi , Nishimura Tetsuro , Ishibe Takuya , Yamakawa Kazuma , Kiguchi Takeyuki , Kishimoto Masafumi , Ninomiya Kohei , Ito Yusuke , Sogabe Taku , Morooka Takaya , Sakamoto Haruko , Hironaka Yuki , Onoe Atsunori , Matsuyama Tasuku , Okada Yohei , Matsui Satoshi , Yoshimura Satoshi , Kimata Shunsuke , Kawai Shunsuke , Makino Yuto , Zha Ling , Kiyohara Kosuke , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Iwami Taku 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Background
The accurate prediction of neurological outcomes in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) with post-cardiac arrest syndrome is crucial for determining the optimal treatment or termination of resuscitation efforts. Hence, this study aimed to externally validate updated prediction models for OHCA outcomes using a large nationwide dataset.
Methods
Existing prediction models for adult patients with non-traumatic OHCA who achieved return of spontaneous circulation were refined using data obtained from the CRITICAL study, a multicentre registry in Osaka, Japan, between January 2013 and December 2019. The primary outcome was a dichotomised 90-day Cerebral Performance Category score. The model was updated using logistic regression with least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regularisation. External validation was performed using data from the JAAM-OHCA registry between January 2014 and December 2019. This is a nationwide multicentre registry in Japan that represents a geographically distinct population from the derivation set. The model performance was evaluated using a validation set.
Results
Two models (Model 1 included patient demographics, pre-hospital information, and the initial rhythm upon hospital admission; Model 2 included information obtained in the hospital immediately after the return of spontaneous circulation) were updated using the derivation set (n = 3337). In the validation set (n = 4250), Model 1 and 2 exhibited a C-statistic of 0.945 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.935–0.955) and 0.958 (95% CI: 0.951–0.960), respectively. Both models were well-calibrated to the observed outcomes. Model 2 demonstrated higher net benefits at all risk thresholds according to the decision curve analysis. A web-based calculator was developed to estimate the probability of poor outcomes (https://pcas-prediction.shinyapps.io/90d_lasso/).
Conclusions
In the validation set, the updated model demonstrated excellent performance in predicting neurological outcomes at 90 days in patients with OHCA. The model, enhanced by incorporating hospital-available information as a predictor, reduced reliance on ambiguous predictors and improved prediction accuracy.
Local Delivery of Bcar3 siRNA by Nano-Self-Assembly for Treating Pulmonary Fibrosis via Blocking the Interaction of Macrophages and Fibroblasts
Authors: Zeng Chenxi , Wang Qi , liu Xuhan , Wang Congjian , Zhou Qing , Fu Xiangning , Yu Jun , Xiong Weining , Wang Yi , Ju Xuetao 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a life-threatening progressive interstitial lung disease with limited therapeutic options, characterized by macrophage infiltration and fibroblast activation in response to chronic lung injury. Specifically, the interaction of macrophages and fibroblasts is critical for facilitating IPF progression. However, no valuable therapeutic strategy has been proposed to inhibit this crosstalk.
Results
In this study, we investigated the role of breast cancer anti-estrogen resistance 3 (Bcar3), an adaptor molecule in the mitogenic signaling pathway, in IPF pathogenesis. We found that Bcar3 expression was upregulated in the lung tissues of both IPF patients and fibrotic mice. Furthermore, Bcar3 facilitated macrophage activation and fibroblast differentiation induced by IL-4 and TGF-β1, respectively. Mechanistically, Bcar3 up-regulation depended on Stat6 in macrophages and TGFβR1/Smad3 in fibroblasts. Furthermore, Bcar3 enhanced IL-4/Stat6 and TGF-β/Smad3 signaling in macrophages and fibroblasts, respectively, establishing a reciprocal activation loop between these two cell types, thus accelerating lung fibrogenesis. Additionally, intratracheal administration of Bcar3 siRNA-loaded liposomes afforded a precise delivery of gene therapeutics to macrophages and fibroblasts in the lung, protecting mice against FITC or bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis, as well as in human precision-cut lung slices stimulated with TGF-β1.
Conclusions
Overall, our study not only highlights the critical role of Bcar3 in the interaction between macrophages and fibroblasts during the progression of pulmonary fibrosis but also demonstrates that strategies aimed at targeting Bcar3 could be considered a promising therapeutic strategy for managing IPF.
Zinc overload induces mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS-mediated mitophagy
Authors: Yang Ying , Wang Pei , Guo Jiabao , Ma Tingting , Hu Youcheng , Huang Luyao , Xing Bohan , He Yonggui , Xi Jinkun 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Zinc homeostasis is essential for maintaining redox balance, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. However, excessive zinc exposure is toxic and leads to mitochondrial dysfunction. In this study, we established a zinc overload model by treating rat cardiomyocyte H9c2 cells with ZnCl2 at different concentrations. Our results showed that zinc overload increased LDH and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, leading to cell death, mitochondrial membrane potential decrease and impaired mitochondrial function and dynamics. Furthermore, zinc overload activated the PINK1/Parkin signaling pathway and induced mitochondrial autophagy via ROS, while NAC inhibited mitophagy and weakened the activation of PINK1/Parkin pathway, thereby preserving mitochondrial biogenesis. In addition, our data also showed that Mfn2 deletion increased ROS production and exacerbated cytotoxicity induced by zinc overload. Our results therefore suggest that ZnCl2-induced ROS generation causes mitochondrial autophagy and mitochondrial dysfunction, damaging H9c2 cardiomyocytes. Additionally, Mfn2 may play a key role in zinc ion-mediated endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial interactions.
Nomograms for predicting early death in elderly colorectal cancer patients based on the SEER database
Authors: He Lulu , Chen Yan , Huang Huanhuan , Wu Yufei , Zhao Chenyi , Lu Yujie , Wang Xiaoyan , Gu Dingyi , Li Jiamin , Guo Feng 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Background: Elderly colorectal cancer (ECRC) patients are generally in poor physical condition due to long-term tumor consumption, and are prone to severe complications or treatment failure. This study found out the risk factors that are related to early death in ECRC patients. A predictive model was then developed. This model can be used to calculate the risk of all-cause and cancer-specific early death in ECRC patients. Methods: Data were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database. Patients with ECRC between 2010 and 2015 were included, and cases with complete data were screened using established criteria. The study then used univariate logistic regression analyses and multivariate logistic regression analyses (stepwise selection method) to identify the most relevant factors among the many variables associated with early death in ECRC patients. On this basis, nomogram prediction models were constructed. These models can be used to predict the risk of early death in ECRC patients. Finally, the model was evaluated in the experiment using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), calibration curves, net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI). Results: 16,512 ECRC patients were selected for study from SEER. Of these, 3443 patients died early ( death within 3 months of initial diagnosis). The early deaths of 2387 patients were cancer-specific early deaths. Race, Grade, AJCC stage, T stage, N stage, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, bone metastasis, lung metastasis, and primary site were independent risk factors for predicting all-cause early death in ECRC patients. Race, Grade, AJCC stage, T-stage, N-stage, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, bone, brain, liver and lung metastases and tumour size were independent risk factors to predict cancer-specific early death in ECRC patients. Then, the nomogram predictive models were built, using these identified variables. These models showed good concordance and accuracy in early mortality risk. Conclusion: Nomogram predictive models developed in this research is a practical tool. This model can help clinicians easily and quickly recognise high-risk ECRC patients. It can also be used as a reference for developing personalised treatment plans for patients.
Is it the Patient or is it the Disease – Considerations when Applying Different Cost Effectiveness Thresholds in Making Reimbursement Decisions
Authors: Coyle Doug 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
In many jurisdictions, decision makers are considering whether in making decision about reimbursing health technologies they should prioritise specific patient populations or diseases: e.g., cancer or rare disease. This can be achieved through applying higher willingness to pay thresholds which implicitly involves the application of equity weighting of outcomes such as QALYs. Decision makers, however, must choose whether to apply equity weights to a specific disease or to the patient with this disease. The objective of this study is to examine the potential impact of implementation of equity weights under either scenario.
Methods
In a health care system with a constrained budget, applying equity weights leads to a reduction in the cost effectiveness threshold for those treatments not meeting criteria for prioritization. For illustration, two hypothetical case studies relating to a rare disease illustrate the repercussions of the two potential approaches to equity weights on funding decisions.
Results
The first case study demonstrates how applying equity weights only to the treatment of the rare disease of interest can lead to a patient with that rare disease accruing less benefits at a higher cost to the payer. The second case study demonstrates that if equity weights are applied to the patient who have a specific rare disease, then funding of a treatment for a common disease may be restricted only to the subset of patients who have this rare disease as a comorbidity. In this scenario, the treatment of the common disease may be restricted to those patients for whom treatment is more costly and less effective.
Conclusions
As discussions continue with respect to applying equity weights and adopting differential funding criteria for different patient populations it is important that these repercussions are recognised.
Superhydrophobicity Graving on Metallic Surface via Hierarchical Structure
Authors: Zheng Que , Lang Sue , Feng Shinhao 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Using a sub-five picosecond laser, we investigated the creation of diverse surface structures on carbon nanotube-reinforced polymer composites. The composite material exhibited a transition in surface properties, beginning with laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) at a scale of approximately 1 μm, transforming into a double structure consisting of grains and LIPSS with mountain-like features. By conducting contact angle measurements, we assessed the wettability of the composite surface and observed a remarkable shift from hydrophilicity (63.6°) to superhydrophobicity (160.0°) as a result of the laser processing. This change led to an increase in the contact angle by approximately 100.0°, which was attributed to the creation of hierarchical surface structures showcasing the rose petal effect. Additionally, we quantified the contact angle hysteresis and surface roughness for further characterization. The utilization of a picosecond laser in generating such surfaces represents a promising and cost-effective alternative to femtosecond laser techniques.
Willingness to Accept Keratorefractive Surgery and Its Barriers Among Myopes at Eye Foundation Hospital Group, Nigeria.
Authors: AGU OBIAJULU 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
OBJECTIVES
The objective of the study was to determine the willingness to accept keratorefractive surgical procedures and its barriers to uptake of among myopes at Eye Foundation Hospital Group, Nigeria.
MATERIALS & METHODS
A descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out at Eye foundation hospital group, involving consecutive consenting new patients diagnosed with any form of myopia. The research involved the administration of semi-structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews and focused group discussions, which were used to collect information on socio-demographic characteristics, willingness to accept the procedure and barriers to uptake of keratorefractive surgery.
RESULTS
The study involved 302 participants who were enrolled, and their ages ranged from 18 years to 57 years old, with an average age of 30.48 ± 8.44 years. Twenty-one percent of the participants were willing to accept the surgery if offered, 45% of the participants were not willing to accept the procedure while 34% of the participants were not sure if there would accept it or not. Participants with high myopia (chi-square p < 0.001) were more willing to accept keratorefractive surgery. Reasons for accepting to do surgery keratorefractive surgery were; tired of using spectacles/contacts (87.3%), career reason (11.1%), do not want to use spectacles (6.3%), beautification (6.3%) and leisure (1.6%). The reasons for not opting for keratorefractive surgery were; fear of damage (59.1%), lack of awareness (41.6%) and financial constraints (40.9%).
CONCLUSION
The willingness to accept keratorefractive surgical services in this study was low. The main barriers to the uptake of the services were fear of damage, lack of awareness and financial constraints and there is a need for patient education to improve surgical uptake.
Evaluation of the flow state and static performance of smooth annular liquid seals
Authors: Yang Zhongjie , Feng Jin , Wan Jingyu , Yu Xiaobin , He Zhangjin , Zhang Wanfu 
Published: August 2023

The static fluid-induced force and stiffness coefficient of the smooth annular seal directly affect the rotor system stability. In this paper, a computational ﬂuid dynamics method is applied to investigate the ﬂow characteristics of a smooth annular seal for various eccentricities, discharge/supply pressures and rotational speeds under different flow conditions (laminar, transition, and turbulent flow). The influence factors and formation mechanism of the static instability in the smooth annular liquid seal are analyzed. Results show that laminar flow dominates the flow state at a rotational speed of ω= 2000 rpm. As the rotational speeds increase, the transition flow (2000-7000 rpm) gradually transits to the turbulent regime (ω> 7000 rpm). The direct static stiffness decreases first and then increases from laminar to transition flow state, and the viscosity effect is the dominant factor. For transition and turbulent flow with high eccentricities (ε= 80 %), the dominant viscous effect and inertial effect lead to the negative radial force and negative direct static stiffness coefficients. The smooth annular liquid seal shows best performance in the laminar flow and worst performance in the turbulent flow.
‘WaSH Futurism’: exploring post-SDG6 targets using the Nominal Group Technique for more equitable global agenda setting
Authors: Hales Georgia , Hasan Bushra S. F. , Balongo Oscar , Meshvania Jay , Sanchez-Martinez Reychel , Shachinda Charles , Hutchings Paul , Bartram James 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6) is grounded in human rights and derives from international policies refined over decades. We argue that much of this agenda setting and monitoring reflects or gives way to neo-colonialism and neo-liberalism. We implement an online version of the Nominal Group Technique to explore its efficacy for more equitable global agenda setting. We apply the technique to a group of 19 graduate WaSH students – from diverse professional backgrounds and originating from and having worked in all global regions – to gain their insights on future WaSH issues to be included in global targets. This was preceded by preparatory exercises on WaSH progress and influential contextual factors. We thus demonstrate a novel and systematic application of the NGT and discuss its potential to be used in challenging neo-colonial and neo-liberal agenda setting. The results also provide an early assessment of future priorities that could inform post-SDG target setting including: inclusivity among populations and settings, hygiene, menstrual health, sustainability, circular economy, climate resilience, preventing infectious disease transmission, and universal ‘safely managed services’. These are compared with themes highlighted in Joint Monitoring Programme reports, SDG6 indicators and General Comment 15: The Human Right to Water.
The Treatment of a New Entity in Advanced Non-small Cell Lung
Cancer: MET Exon 14 Skipping Mutation
Authors: Rocco Danilo , Gravara Luigi Della , Palazzolo Giovanni , Gridelli Cesare 
Published: August 2023

Background:
MET (MET Proto-Oncogene, Receptor Tyrosine Kinase) exon
14 skipping mutation represents one of the most common MET alterations, accounting
for approximately 1-3% of all mutations in advanced lung adenocarcinomas. While until
2020 no specific treatment was available for this subset of patients, as of today, three
MET Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) are currently approved in this setting, namely
capmatinib, tepotinib and savolitinib.

Objective:
This article aims to provide an extensive overview of the current therapeutic
standard of care for exon 14 skipped advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) patients,
alongside with mentions of the main future challenges and opportunities.

Conclusion:
FDA-approved MET-TKIs currently represent the best option for treating
exon 14 skipped advanced NSCLC patients, thanks to their excellent efficacy profile,
alongside their manageable safety and tolerability. However, we currently lack specific
agents to treat patients progressing on capmatinib or tepotinib, due to a limited understanding
of the mechanisms underlying both on- and off-target resistance. In this respect,
on-target mutations presently constitute the most explored ones from a mechanistic point
of view, and type II MET-TKIs are currently under investigation as the most promising
agents capable of overcoming the acquired resistance.
Current State of Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN and NLC) for Skin Applications
Authors: Eroğlu Cemre , Sinani Genada , Ulker Zeynep 
Published: August 2023

Abstract:
The increasing knowledge on skin physiology, formulation science and nanotechnology has led to
continuous improvements in cosmetics, and introduction of dermocosmetics has been increasing particularly
for the management of skin disorders such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, etc. Nowadays, research has been focused
on the development of products which can efficiently administer active compounds to the target skin layers
while minimizing side effects. The use of multifunctional lipid nanoparticles for cosmetic and dermocosmetic
purposes is promising not only because biocompatible ingredients are used in their composition, but also because
of their ability to show enhanced skin penetration. Although the introduction of liposomes has been a hallmark
of lipid nanoparticles, development of novel systems capable of encapsulating active compounds with tunable
release profiles, that show good stability, are easy to manufacture and handle remains a necessity. Solid
lipid nanoparticles (SLN) were introduced as alternative formulations for emulsions, liposomes and polymeric
nanoparticles, whereas nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) were developed later as second-generation nanoparticles.
However, both SLN and NLC show many inherited advantageous properties to be used for dermal applications
including ability to provide occlusion and photoprotective effect and skin hydration, and various SLN
and NLC based products are already in the market. This review provides an overview on the current state-of-art
of SLN and NLC particularly for cosmetic and dermocosmetic purposes, discuss their formulation composition,
structures and preparation techniques. Their use for the topical delivery of active compounds in different skin disorders
is highlighted along with examples of commercialized products.
Delivery of Agarose-aided Sprays to the Posterior Nose for Mucosa
Immunization and Short-term Protection against Infectious Respiratory
Diseases
Authors: Seifelnasr Amr , Talaat Mohamed , Si Xiuhua April , Xi Jinxiang 
Published: August 2023

Aim:
The study aimed to deliver sprays to the posterior nose for mucosa immunization
or short-term protection.

Background:
Respiratory infectious diseases often enter the human body through the nose. Sars-
Cov-2 virus preferentially binds to the ACE2-rich tissue cells in the Nasopharynx (NP). Delivering
medications to the nose, especially to the NP region, provides either a short-term protective/
therapeutic layer or long-term mucosa immunization. Hydrogel-aided medications can assist
film formation, prolong film life, and control drug release. However, conventional nasal sprays
have failed to dispense mediations to the posterior nose, with most sprays lost in the nasal valve
and front turbinate.

Objective:
The objective of the study was to develop a practical delivery system targeting the posterior
nose and quantify the dosimetry distribution of agarose-saline solutions in the nasal cavity.

Methods:
The solution viscosities with various hydrogel concentrations (0.1-1%) were measured
at different temperatures. Dripping tests on a vertical plate were conducted to understand the hydrogel
concentration effects on the liquid film stability and mobility. Transparent nasal airway
models were used to visualize the nasal spray deposition and liquid film translocation.

Result:
Spray dosimetry with different hydrogel concentrations and inhalation flow rates was
quantified on a total and regional basis. The solution viscosity increased with decreasing temperature,
particularly in the range of 60-40oC. The liquid viscosity, nasal spray atomization, and liquid
film mobility were highly sensitive to the hydrogel concentration. Liquid film translocations significantly
enhanced delivered doses to the caudal turbinate and nasopharynx when the sprays were
administered at 60oC under an inhalation flow rate of 11 L/min with hydrogel concentrations no
more than 0.5%. On the other hand, sprays with 1% hydrogel or administered at 40oC would significantly
compromise the delivered doses to the posterior nose.

Conclusion:
Delivering sufficient doses of hydrogel sprays to the posterior nose is feasible by
leveraging the post-administration liquid film translocation.