bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
High-Fat Diet Enhances Stemness and Compromises Intestinal Permeability in A Translational Canine Intestinal Organoid Model
Authors: Nagao Itsuma , Ambrosini Yoko 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background: Emerging evidence underscores the responsiveness of the mammalian intestine to dietary cues, notably through the involvement of LGR5+ intestinal stem cells in orchestrating responses to diet-driven signals. However, the effects of high-fat diet (HFD) on these cellular dynamics and their impact on gut integrity remain insufficiently understood. Our study aims to assess the multifaceted interactions between lipotoxicity, stemness, and the intestinal epithelial barrier using a canine colonoid model. Canine models, due to their relevance in simulating human intestinal diseases, offer a unique platform to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying HFD derived intestinal dysfunction.
Results: Canine colonoids were subjected to palmitic acid (PA) exposure, a surrogate for the effects of HFD. This intervention revealed a remarkable augmentation of stemness characteristics. Furthermore, we observed a parallel reduction in transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), indicating altered epithelium barrier integrity. While E-cadherin exhibited consistency, ZO-1 displayed a noteworthy reduction in fluorescence intensity within the PA-exposed group.
Conclusions: By employing canine intestinal organoid systems, we provide compelling insights into the impact of lipotoxicity on intestinal physiology. These findings underscore the importance of considering both stemness and epithelial integrity in comprehending the repercussions of HFDs on intestinal health. Our study contributes to a deeper understanding of the consequences of HFD on intestinal homeostasis, utilizing valuable translational in vitro models derived from dogs.
Long-term safety and efficacy of enzalutamide for men with castration-resistant prostate cancer: a multicenter, prospective DELC study
Authors: Nagahara Akira , Uemura Motohide , Sato Mototaka , Nakata Wataru , Tsujihata Masao , Takao Tetsuya , Matsumura Soichi , Nishimura Kensaku , Takada Shingo , Iwanishi Toshichika , Kobayashi Yasuyuki , Ishizuya Yu , Takada Tsuyoshi , Okada Koichi , Inoue Hitoshi , Kato Taigo , Hatano Koji , Kawashima Atsunari , Ujike Takeshi , Fujita Kazutoshi , Nonomura Norio 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Alternative antiandrogen therapy (AAT) has been widely used as a first-line treatment for castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), and it may affect treatment outcome of subsequent androgen receptor axis-targeted agents. We conducted a prospective observational study to evaluate the efficacy of enzalutamide in patients with CRPC who underwent prior combined androgen blockade with bicalutamide and then AAT with flutamide.
Methods
This prospective observational study enrolled 163 Japanese patients with CRPC who underwent AAT with flutamide following failure of initial combined androgen blockade with bicalutamide in multiple institutions between January 2016 and March 2019. Primary endpoint was overall survival. Administration of enzalutamide was started at 160 mg orally once daily in all patients.
Results
Median follow-up period was 25.8 months, the rate of decline of prostate-specific antigen by 50% or more was 72.2%, and median overall survival was 42.05 months. Multivariate analysis revealed that higher pretreatment serum prostate-specific antigen (≥ 11.3 ng/mL; p = 0.004), higher neuron-specific enolase (p = 0.014), and higher serum interleukin-6 (≥ 2.15 pg/mL; p = 0.004) levels were independent risk factors for overall survival. Fatigue (30.0%), constipation (19.6%), and appetite loss (17.8%) were the most common clinically relevant adverse events. The enzalutamide dose was not reduced in any patient under the age of 70, but adherence was decreased in those over 70.
Conclusions
Although the enzalutamide response period appeared shorter due to prior AAT, overall survival was deemed equivalent compared to previous reports. Neuron-specific enolase and interleukin-6 levels in serum were suggested as prognostic factors with potential clinical utility.
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of Polyphyllin VI revealed by network pharmacology and RNA sequencing
Authors: Zhang Zhenglang , Wang Tingting , Luo Zhenhui , Zaib Muhammad Haris , Yi Mengqin , Zeng Hekun , Li Peiyang , Tang Dan , Verkhratsky Alexei , Nie Hong 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Inflammatory pain, sustained by a complex network of inflammatory mediators, is a severe and persistent illness affecting a large proportion of the general population. Based on our earlier research showing that Polyphyllin VI (PPVI) alleviates pain by reducing inflammation in mice we proceed to identify potential anti-inflammatory mechanisms of PPVI. Network pharmacology and RNA-Seq identified the contribution of the MAPK signaling pathway to inflammatory pain. In the in vitro LPS/ATP-induced RAW264.7 cell model pretreatment with PPVI for 24h inhibited the release of IL-6、IL-8, down-regulated expression of the P2X7 receptor(P2X7R), and decreased phosphorylation of p38 and ERK1/2 components of the MAPK pathway. Similarly, PPVI decreased expression of IL-6 and IL-8 was observed in the serum of the inflammatory pain mice model and reduced phosphorylation of p38 and ERK1/2 in the dorsal root ganglia. These results suggest that PPⅥ reduces phosphorylated p38 and ERK1/2 by regulating P2X7R, thus inhibiting the release of IL-6 and IL-8 to alleviate inflammatory pain.
The effect of different antifouling paints on biocide release rate and mechanical properties
Authors: Jalaie Adel , Afshaar Abdolah , Mousavi Seyed Borhan , Heidari Mohammad 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
This study comprehensively assesses the release rate of biocides, corrosion effects related to antifouling, and the physical properties of different paint types. Tests were conducted to measure thickness, viscosity, hardness, bending, adhesion, gloss, impact resistance, abrasion resistance, scratch resistance, polarization, and salt spray. The paints evaluated include resin-based, acrylic-based, epoxy-based, and vinyl-based formulations. The study investigates the influence of biocide content, biocide particle size, and immersion time on the release rate using a lab-scale setup. Results showed that acrylic-based paints had a higher biocide release rate due to faster hydrolysis, while smaller biocide particle sizes led to higher release rates in resin-based paints. Optimal total biocide contents were determined as 30% for acrylic-based, 60% for epoxy-based, and 50% for vinyl-based paints. Antifouling corrosion analysis demonstrated that the sample with the optimal release rate effectively prevents algae growth and fouling. Acrylic-based paint with 30 wt% biocide content exhibited superior adhesion with a dolly separation force of 4.12 MPa. Evaluating the impact of synthesized polyaniline on 30 wt% epoxy-based paint, a sample coated with 10 wt% polyaniline represented a low corrosion rate of 0.35 µm/year and a high impedance value of approximately 37000 Ohm.cm-2.
Quantitative evaluation of pediatric umbilical loop stomas: Two decades of experience from a single institution
Authors: Ishii Daisuke , Kumata Yuka , Ishii Seiya , Motoki Keita , Miyagi Hisayuki 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Since pediatric stomas are often temporary, their creation, management, and closure should be simple, with minimal complications and excellent cosmetic results. We began employing umbilical stomas in 2000. This study aimed to characterize the ingenuity and utility of umbilical stomas and provide a quantitative evaluation of their cosmetic outcomes.
Methods
We examined cases of stoma construction and closure surgery performed in our department from January 2000 to December 2022. The umbilical and non-umbilical stoma groups included 54 and 42 cases, respectively, and the findings for both groups were compared and analyzed.
Results
The two groups showed no significant differences in the incidence of complications. The Manchester Scar Scale score for the umbilical stoma group (8.42±1.85) was significantly better than that for the non-umbilical stoma group (16.31±2.96; P<0.01). Likewise, in Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale assessments, the umbilical stoma group showed significantly better scores in both the observer scale (9.48±2.50 vs. 21.78±7.26; P<0.01) and the patient scale (10.5±1.39 vs. 22.40±7.35; P<0.01).
Conclusions
Umbilical stomas are easy to manage and yield an inconspicuous closure incision with excellent cosmetic outcomes. Although patient selection is important, pediatric umbilical stomas are a valuable option that can be actively employed.
Investigation in Surface Wave Propagation on Reconfigurable Porous Plane
Authors: Chu Zhiyuan , Tong Kin-Fai , Wong Kai-Kit , Chae Chan-Byoung , Zhang Yangyang 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
This paper introduces a novel reconfigurable technique for partitioning surface waves by utilizing a T-shaped structure and pathways established through the introduction of fluid metal or metal pins into evenly spaced cylindrical cavities within a porous surface wave platform. Notably, the co-printing of metal and dielectric materials via 3D printing is employed, resulting in an expedited fabrication process. Extensive 3D electromagnetic simulations and experimental investigations validate the proposed approach's efficacy in achieving surface wave division while minimizing interference. The study encompasses an exploration of diverse power distribution ratios achievable within the distributed surface waves. Critical physical parameters of the T-junction are comprehensively examined, including partition depth, junction geometry, output port symmetry, and asymmetry. Additionally, the research delves into the frequency-dependent behaviours of asymmetric T-junctions and pathways. These findings establish the groundwork for adaptable architectures, facilitating concurrent communication among multiple devices within a unified surface wave communication network. This innovation holds potential to enhance various applications through improved communication capabilities.
Diagnostic decisions of specialist optometrists exposed to ambiguous deep-learning outputs
Authors: Carmichael Josie , Costanza Enrico , Blandford Ann , Struyven Robbert , Keane Pearse , Balaskas Konstantinos 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) has great potential in ophthalmology; however, there has been limited clinical integration. Our study investigated how ambiguous outputs from an AI diagnostic support system (AI-DSS) affected diagnostic responses from optometrists when assessing cases of suspected retinal disease. Thirty optometrists at Moorfields Eye Hospital (15 more experienced, 15 less) assessed 30 clinical cases in counterbalanced order. For ten cases, participants saw an optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan, basic clinical information and a retinal photograph (‘no AI’). For another ten, they were also given the AI-generated OCT-based probabilistic diagnosis (‘AI diagnosis’); and for ten, both AI-diagnosis and an AI-generated OCT segmentation (‘AI diagnosis + segmentation’) were provided. Cases were matched across the three types of presentation and were purposely selected to include 40% ambiguous and 20% incorrect AI outputs. Optometrist diagnostic agreement with the predefined reference standard was lowest for the ‘AI diagnosis + segmentation’ presentation (204/300, 68%) compared to both ‘AI diagnosis’ (224/300, 75% p = 0·010), and ‘no Al’ (242/300, 81%, p = < 0·001). Agreement in the ‘AI diagnosis’ presentation was lower (p = 0·049) than in the ‘no AI’. Agreement with AI diagnosis consistent with the reference standard decreased (174/210 vs 199/210, p = 0·003), but participants trusted the AI more (p = 0·029) when segmentations were displayed. There was no significant effect of practitioner experience on diagnostic responses (p = 0·24). More experienced participants were more confident (p = 0·012) and trusted the AI less (p = 0·038). Our findings also highlighted issues around reference standard definition.
Surgical outcomes and prognosis of intracorporeal versus extracorporeal esophagojejunostomy after laparoscopic total gastrectomy for gastric cancer: a propensity score-matching study
Authors: Seo Ji Won , Park Ki Bum , Kim Eun Young , Jun Kyong-Hwa , Chin Hyung Min 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Background: This study compared the surgical outcomes and long-term prognoses of intracorporeal and extracorporeal esophagojejunostomy after laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) for gastric cancer patients.
Methods: In total 228 clinical stage I gastric cancer patients undergoing LTG were enrolled from January 2012 and December 2022. Each case in the totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy (TLTG) group was 1:1 propensity score-matched to control cases in the laparoscopy-assisted total gastrectomy (LATG) group. In total, 95 and 93 LATG and TLTG patients were included after propensity score matching (PSM). Clinicopathological features, surgical outcomes, and survival variables were compared, and risk factors for postoperative complications were analyzed.
Results: Patient characteristics were well balanced between the LATG and TLTG groups after PSM. The TLTG group showed less blood loss, decreased frequency of analgesic use, and shorter duration of analgesic use. The TLTG group had significantly lower rates of intestinal obstruction and surgical site infection. Larger tumor size and advanced pTNM stage were independent risk factors for postoperative complications. There was no significant difference in overall survival (OS).
Conclusions: Compared with LATG, TLTG was associated with better surgical outcomes and fewer postoperative surgical complications in gastric cancer patients although there was no significant difference in OS.
Significance of wetlands for the conservation of avifauna in the central zone of Tigray, northern Ethiopia
Authors: Arefayne Kalayu Mesfin , Tesfahunegn Wldemariam , Assefa Alembrhan 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the significance of wetlands for bird conservation from June 2022 to May 2023 in the central zone of Tigray, northern Ethiopia. The point count method was used to study the bird assemblage structure and diversity in the study sites. During data analysis, the Shannon–Weaver diversity index was employed using PAST software. A total of 4,324 individual birds belonging to 125 species, 14 orders and 42 families were identified. The order Passeriformes was recorded with the highest number of species (70, 56%), followed by the order Columbiformes (9, 7.2%). Overall bird species diversity and abundance were higher during the wet season at all studied sites. The highest (100, 42%) and lowest (66, 27%) numbers of bird species were recorded in May Abakat and May Shingurti, respectively. The bird community similarity of the studied habitats was SI = 0.492, which is < 50%, indicating that there is low similarity of bird species among the three wetlands. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the abundance of bird species between the wet and dry seasons except in the May Shingurti wetland. Generally, the abundance of bird species among the three selected wetlands showed highly significant variation (p < 0.05). Solid waste disposal, erosion, agricultural expansion, urbanization (human settlement), grazing by domestic stock, military camping, Eucalyptus cultivation and others were identified as wetland threats. Finally, community-based conservation initiatives should be developed and implemented to diminish the threats and safeguard the studied wetlands.
Replication Study Identified EFEMP1 Association with Varicose Vein Predisposition among Indians
Authors: Mehra Rohit , Patra Vikram , Dhillan Rishi , Sharma Anuka , Kashyap Sonal , Rastogi Garima , Gupta Love , Singh Reena , Chopra Chirag , Sharma Varun 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background:
Varicose veins are chronic condition that affects the lower extremities of the body. Several factors such as age, gender, weight, height, prolonged sitting or standing time are associated with this trait. Recently, genome wide studies have identifying genetic biomarkers that are associated with varicose veins in different ethnic groups. Such genetic studies are lacking in South Asians specifically in Indians where prevalence of varicose veins is high and it is important to replicate these variants in stated population. The aim of study is to replicate the association of genetic variants associated with varicose veins which were found to be associated in the other ethnic groups.
Methodology:
The studied cohort is of Indian population comprising of unrelated 104 varicose veins cases and 448 non-VV controls. The samples were genotyped using the Illumina Global Screening Array. Using the genomic data from UK BioBank and 23andMe studied cohorts; eight genetic variants were selected to replicate in our dataset. Allelic association was performed to identify the effective allele and risk was estimated using odds ratio and p value as level of significance. Multifactor Dimensionality Reduction was used to estimate the cumulative effect of variants in Indians.
Result:
Variant rs3791679 of EFEMP1 was found to be associated with varicose veins in Indians. After observing the association of EFEMP1 with varicose veins, we further ensued to identify all genetic variants within EFEMP1 to uncover the additional variants associated with this trait. Interestingly, we identified six new variants of EFEM1 gene that have shown association. Moreover, the cumulative effect of all associated variations was estimated and the risk was 2.7 times higher in cases than controls whereas independently their effect is ranging from 0.37–1.58.
Conclusion:
In this study, EFEMP1 was identified as a potential gene related with the risk of varicose veins in Indians. Present study also highlights that evaluating the maximum number of variants of a gene rather than focusing solely on replicating single variations offers a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the genetic factors contributing to a complex trait like varicose veins.
Gibbons overcome the face inversion effect through exceptional holistic perceptionion
Authors: Zhang Yigui , Chen Lixin , Hong Litong , Chen Yuanyuan , Li Zhongqiu 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Extensive research has consistently underscored the significance of visual information, particularly facial cues, in primates’ establishment and maintenance of social relationships within their communities. This study aims to delve into the cross-species face recognition capacities of gibbons through exposure to a diverse array of two-dimensional face images, encompassing upright and non-upright faces, as well as images featuring incomplete facial features and contours. Employing the well-established go/no-go paradigm, gibbons were tasked with choosing between two concurrently presented face images. The findings shed light on gibbons’ extraordinary cross-species face recognition capacities, underpinned by their remarkable holistic perception capacities. Crucially, their holistic perception remains steadfast even in the face of incomplete features, truncated contours, and non-upright faces, empowering them to surmount the challenges posed by the face inversion effect.
Preventive Effects of Chinese Xinjiang Naturally Fermented Yogurt Separated from Lactobacillus rhamnosus AFY02 on Acute Gouty Arthritis in Mice
Authors: Wang Mengwei , Fan Yang , Song Jing , Liu Yanqing , He Mengping , Zhao Xin , Wu Wenzhong 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Introduction This research aims to investigate the mechanism of action of Lactobacillus rhamnosus AFY02 (LR-AFY02) in mice with acute gouty arthritis. Using sodium urate, we created a mouse model of acute gouty arthritis.
Methods We then examined the degree of foot swelling, pain threshold, blood biochemical indicators, histopathological changes, and mRNA expression changes to determine the effectiveness and mechanism of LR-AFY02 in preventing acute gouty arthritis in mice.
Results The outcomes of the animal experiment demonstrated that LR-AFY02 can decrease the severity of mouse foot edema and raise pain threshold. In the ankle joint tissues of mice with acute arthritis, LR-AFY02 can increase the enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the level of glutathione (GSH), while lowering the enzyme activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and the level of malondialdehyde (MDA). Interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels in the blood of mice with acute arthritis are also decreased by LR-AFY02. Histopathological findings demonstrated that LR-AFY02 reduced tissue damage in the mouse foot and ankle joints. The findings of the qPCR experiment showed that LR-AFY02 may suppress the mRNA expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), IL-6, interferon gamma (IFN-γ), and TNF- in the tissues of the ankle joints of mice with acute arthritis. Additionally, LR-AFY02 has the ability to increase the expression of catalase (CAT), manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), and copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD).
Conclusion As a result, it is clear that Lactobacillus rhamnosus AFY02 is more effective than glucosamine sulfate at preventing acute gouty arthritis. It is a strain with potential as a probiotic.
Multiplicity of nontrivial solutions for a class of fractional Kirchhoff equations
Authors: Shao Liuyang , Chen Haibo , Pang Yicheng , Wang Yingmin 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
In this article, we study a class of fractional Kirchhoff with a superlinear nonlinearity: are positive numbers satisfying solution. By applying the variational method, we obtain the existence of multiple solutions. Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that the ground state solution has also been obtained.
2010 Mathematics Subject Classification. 35B09; 35J20
Hierarchical models for West Nile virus risk mapping in Connecticut, USA
Authors: McMillan Joseph R. , Chaves Luis Fernando , Armstrong Philip M. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background: Predicting risk of West Nile virus (WNV) to humans in spaces without mosquito surveillance data is a key limitation of many WNV surveillance programs. To address this knowledge gap, we analyzed 20 years (2001 – 2020) of statewide, point-level mosquito and WNV surveillance data from Connecticut (CT), USA, using boosted regression trees (BRT) and generalized linear models (GLMs) to determine the most influential climate variables, land cover classes, and seasonality factors (such as Month of collection) associated with Culex pipiens abundance and WNV presence/absence in tested mosquito pools.
Methods: Candidate Cx. pipiens collection models were assessed based on explained deviance and root mean square error then optimized using a backward selection process. We then used predicted Cx. pipiens abundance in models of WNV presence/absence to predict WNV detection probabilities throughout CT. We validated these WNV predictions by testing the association between predicted WNV detection probabilities in mosquitoes and observed WNV incidence in mosquitoes from 2021 – 2022 and in humans from 2001 – 2022 using binomial-error generalized linear mixed effects models.
Results: Predicted mosquito WNV detection probabilities in unsampled spaces were significantly associated with the odds of a mosquito pool testing positive as well as a human case occurring within the geopolitical boundaries of a town.
Conclusion: This methodology has broad utility in the US and abroad to inform the public of risk of WNV quickly and easily in mosquitoes using only a few online and easily accessible data sources.