bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Treatment Outcome of Localized Prostate Cancer Using Transperineal Ultrasound Image-Guided Radiotherapy
Authors: Takai Kenji , Watanabe Ryota , Hyogo Ken-ichi , Ito Yuri , Minagawa Nobuko , Sato Yusuke , Matsuda Yoshikazu , Nemoto Kenji 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background
We report the results of a retrospective analysis of localized prostate cancer (LPCa) treated with transperineal ultrasound image-guided radiotherapy (TPUS-IGRT).
Methods
A total of 124 patients (median age: 74 y, 46–84 y) with LPCa who underwent TPUS-IGRT (Clarity Autoscan system; CAS, Elekta; Stockholm, Sweden) between April 2016 and October 2021 for curative/after hormone induction were enrolled. The number of patients by risk (National Comprehensive Cancer Network 2019) was 7, 25, 42, and 50 for low (LR), good intermediate (good IR), poor intermediate (poor IR), and high (HR)/very high (VHR), respectively. Ninety-five patients were given neoadjuvant hormonal therapy. The planning target volume margin setting was 3 mm for rectal in most cases, 5–7 mm for superior/inferior, and 5 mm for anterior/right/left. The principle prescribed dose is 74 Gy (LR), 76 Gy (good IR), and 76–78 Gy (poor IR or above). CAS was equipped with a real-time prostate intrafraction monitoring (RTPIFM) system. When a displacement of 2–3 mm or more was detected, irradiation was paused, and the patients were placed on standby for prostate reinstatement/recorrection. Of the 3135 fractions in 85 patients for whom RTPIFM was performed, 1008 fractions (32.1%) were recorrected at least once after starting irradiation.
Results
A total of 123 patients completed the radiotherapy course. The 5-year overall survival rate was 95.9%. The 5-year biological prostate-specific antigen relapse-free survival rate (bPFS) was 100% for LR, 92.9% for intermediate IR, and 93.2% for HR/VHR (Phoenix method). The 5-year late toxicity rate of Grade 2 + was 7.4% for genitourinary (GU) and 6.5% for gastrointestinal (GI) organs. Comparing the ≤ 76 Gy group to the 78 Gy group for both GU and GI organs, the incidence was higher in the 78 Gy group for both groups.
Conclusion
These results suggest that TPUS-IGRT is well tolerated, as the bPFS and incidence of late toxicity are almost comparable to those reported by other sources of image-guided radiotherapy.
Increased plasma lipopolysaccharide-binding protein and altered inflammatory mediators in overweight women suggest a state of subclinical endotoxemia
Authors: Metz Christine N. , Xue Xiangying , Chatterjee Prodyot K , Adelson Robert P. , Brines Michael , Tracey Kevin J. , Gregersen Peter K. , Pavlov Valentin A. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Chronic low-grade inflammation has been recognized as an underlying event linking obesity to cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, inflammatory alterations in individuals who are overweight remain understudied. To provide insight, we determined the levels of key circulating biomarkers of endotoxemia and inflammation, including lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), CRP, IL-6, leptin, and adiponectin in adult female subjects (n = 20) who were lean or overweight and had high cholesterol and/or high blood pressure - two important conventional risk factors for CVD. Plasma levels of LBP (a recognized marker of metabolic endotoxemia in obesity) were significantly higher in the overweight group compared with the lean group (P = 0.005). The levels of CRP, a general marker of inflammation, were also significantly higher in overweight subjects (P = 0.01), as were IL-6 (P = 0.02) and leptin (P = 0.002), pro-inflammatory mediators associated with cardiovascular risk. Levels of adiponectin, an adipokine with anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic functions, were significantly lower in the overweight group (P = 0.002). The leptin/adiponectin ratio, a preferential atherogenic marker was significantly increased in women who are overweight (P = 0.02). LBP, CRP, leptin, and adiponectin levels significantly correlated with BMI, but not with age. These results reveal the presence of subclinical endotoxemia and a pro-inflammatory state in overweight women and are of interest for further studies with the goal for improved understanding of women’s cardiovascular health.
Natural and artificial antimicrobial peptide designs: A comparative study of Mastoparan C and BP52
Authors: Phuong Hai Bui Thi , Hai Yen Do , Huu Viet Nguyen , The Anh Luong , Hong Minh Nguyen , Xuan Huy Luong 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are small, naturally occurring molecules that play a vital role in the innate immune systems of various organisms, ranging from bacteria to humans. Additionally, artificial AMPs are also designed and synthesized based on the common structure-activity relationships (SARs) found in natural ones. As part of our ongoing effort to explore the advantages and disadvantages of each source, this study focused on two representative helical AMPs: Mastoparan C (MPC) and BP52. While the former is derived from the venom of the European wasp Vespa crabro, the latter belongs to a group of artificially designed AMPs inspired by the structure of two natural peptides, Cecropin A and Melittin M. Our preliminary data suggests that BP52 exhibits similar antimicrobial activity to MPC but demonstrates significantly higher potency against the A427 cancer cell line. Taken together with the shorter length and reduced toxicity to human red blood cells, BP52 exhibited greater potential in drug development compared to its counterpart, MPC.
Automatic generation of alloreactivity-reduced donor lymphocytes and hematopoietic stem cells from the same mobilized apheresis product
Authors: Wiercinska Eliza , Quade-Lyssy Patricia , Hümmer Christiane , Beifuß Josefine , Akarkach Karima , Poppe Carolin , Olevska Valeriya , Dzionek Julia , Lahnor Heike , Bosio Andreas , Papanikolaou Eleni , Bonig Halvard 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
INTRODUCTION In vitro or in vivo depletion of alloreactive T cells can facilitate haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Very satisfactory transplant outcomes were thus reported for TCRαβ/CD19-depleted hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell (HSPC) grafts.
The current semi-automatic manufacturing process on the CliniMACS Plus, although robust, still requires a significant amount of manual labor to be completed. Towards advancing and further facilitating large scale cell processing, a new TCRαβ/CD19 depletion module combined with the previously described CD45RA depletion module (to serve as allo-reactivity attenuated donor lymphocyte infusion) was established on the CliniMACS Prodigy.
METHODS We evaluated six apheresis products from G-CSF-mobilized volunteer donors which were split automatically by the Prodigy, one portion each depleted of CD45RA+ or of TCRαβ+ and CD19+ cells. We investigated critical quality attributes for both products. Products were assessed for recovery of HSPCs and mature subsets, as well as depletion efficiency of targeted cells using flow cytometry. Effects of apheresis and product age post 48 hours storage at 2-6 °C as well as freeze-thawing on product viability and recovery of WBC and HPSCs were assessed by flow cytometry.
RESULTS Ten sequential automatic processes were completed with minimal handson time beyond tubing set installation. Depletion efficiency of CD45RA+ resp. TCRαβ+ and CD19+ cells was equivalent to previous reports, achieving mean depletions of 4 log of targeted cells for both products. HSPC products retained TCRγδ+ and NK cells. 48 hours storage of apheresis product was associated with the expected modest loss of HSPCs, but depletions remained efficient. Depleted products were stable until at least 72 hours after apheresis with stem cell viabilities >90%. Freeze-thawing resulted in loss of NK cells; post-thaw recovery of viable CD45+ and HSPCs was >70% and in line with expectation.
CONCLUSION The closed, GMP-compatible process generates two separate medicinal products from the same mobilized apheresis product. The CD45RA-depleted products contained functional memory T cells, whereas the TCRαβ/CD19-depleted products included HSPCs, TCRγδ+ and NK cells. Both products are predicted to be effectively depleted of GvH-reactivity while providing immunological surveillance, in support of haplo-identical HSCT.
Preliminary experience of transurethral endoscopic laser lithotripsy for bladder calculi under local anesthesia in ambulatory surgery mode
Authors: Wan Hao , Zhou Xiaochen , Chen Tao , Yu Yue , Liu Wei , Deng Wen , Xi Haibo , Fu Bin , chen luyao 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Objective: To explore the efficacy and safety of transurethral endoscopic laser lithotripsy for bladder calculi under local anesthesia in ambulatory surgery mode and share preliminary experience. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 35 patients with bladder calculi who underwent transurethral endoscopic laser lithotripsy in the ambulatory surgery room of our hospital from October 2021 to May 2023. All patients were diagnosed with bladder calculi before being admitted to the day surgery room after obtaining informed consent. Demographic and perioperative data were recorded.
Results: In this study, the patient’s age was 54.1 ± 15.2 year (range from 24.0-89.0), with 28 male and 7 female cases. The mean stone size was 2.2 ± 1.1 cm (1.0 - 6.6 cm), and the mean operation time was 31.9 ± 12.3 minutes (15.0-75.0min). The mean pain scores during and after the surgery were 1.7 and 1.3, respectively. No major complications occurred during the surgery. The surgical tolerability was good, all patients were discharged within 24 hours after the surgery. After 3 months of follow-up, all patients had no postoperative discomfort or complications.
Conclusion: Under strict selection criteria and perioperative management, transurethral endoscopic laser lithotripsy for bladder calculi under local anesthesia in ambulatory surgery mode is a safe treatment option, especially for high-risk patients with other comorbidities, those who cannot tolerate general anesthesia, and those who may reduce hospital stay, lower hospitalization costs, and reduce the economic burden on patients.
Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals the molecular mechanism of heterosis on waterlogging tolerance in Chrysanthemum indicum
Authors: Su Jiangshuo , Zhao Limin , Yang Yingnan , Yang Yang , Zhang Xuefeng , Guan Zhiyong , Fang Weimin , Chen Fadi , Zhang Fei 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Heterosis breeding is one of the most important breeding methods of chrysanthemum. Currently, the genetic mechanism of heterosis for waterlogging tolerance in chrysanthemum is still unclear. This study analyzed the expression profiles and potential heterosis-related genes of two hybrid lines and their parents with extreme differences in waterlogging tolerance under control and waterlogging stress conditions using RNA-seq.
Results
A population of 140 F1 progeny derived from Chrysanthemum indicum (Nanchang) (waterlogging-tolerant) and Chrysanthemum indicum (Nanjing) (waterlogging-sensitive) was used to characterize the extent of genetic variation for seven waterlogging tolerance related traits across two years. Lines 98 and 95 respectively showing positive and negative overdominance heterosis for the waterlogging tolerance traits together with their parents were used for RNA-seq under control and waterlogging stress conditions. The results showed line 98 exhibited the maximum number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed multiple stress-related biological processes for the common up-regulated genes. Line 98 had a significant increase in non-additive genes under waterlogging stress, with the transgressive up-regulation and paternal-expression dominance patterns being the major gene expression profiles, further, GO analysis identified 55 and 95 genes overlapped with the up-regulated genes shared by two parents in terms of response to stress and response to stimulus, respectively. A total of 6,640 genes displayed maternal-expression dominance patterns were observed in line 95. In addition, 16 candidate genes including SAP12, DOX1, and ERF017 potentially responsible for the formation of waterlogging tolerance heterosis of line 98 were highlighted.
Conclusion
The current study gives a comprehensive overview of the root transcriptomes at F1 hybrids and their parents, and provides novel insights into the molecular mechanism of heterosis and the response to waterlogging stress in chrysanthemum.
Preexcitation syndrome unveiling Ebstein’s anomaly at an exceptionally advanced age: A case report
Authors: Faraj Raid , Nguadi Jaouad , Fagouri Jihane , Malki Mohamed , Chmali Oumaima , Mekki Abdelilah Ben El , Kheyi Jamal , Asfalou Iliyasse , Bouzelmat Hicham , Benyass Aatif 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background: Ebstein’s anomaly represents an infrequent congenital cardiac anomaly characterized by atypical tricuspid valve morphology, accompanied by the displacement of the septal and posterior leaflets towards the right ventricle. This condition is commonly associated with a variety of arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation. Pre-excited atrial fibrillation denotes a distinct subtype of atrial fibrillation in which an accessory pathway bypasses the standard atrioventricular conduction system, consequently leading to rapid ventricular response rates.
Case presentation: We present a unique instance of atrial fibrillation with preexcitation revealing Ebstein’s anomaly in an elderly patient. The patient, a 71-year-old individual with no previous medical or surgical history, presented with symptoms of palpitations and shortness of breath. The clinical examination revealed a rapid tachycardia that was poorly tolerated hemodynamically. Electrocardiogram findings demonstrated characteristic features of preexcited atrial fibrillation, which were subsequently confirmed by an electrophysiological study, indicating the presence of an accessory pathway. Echocardiography revealed the typical manifestations of Ebstein’s anomaly. Initially, the patient underwent urgent cardioversion, which successfully restored sinus rhythm. Since the ablation procedure was unsuccessful, the patient's treatment approach was modified to focus on medical management, which ultimately resulted in a favorable outcome.
Conclusions: This unique case sheds light on the complex interplay between cardiac arrhythmias and adult congenital heart disease. Early diagnosis and comprehensive management are crucial in optimizing outcomes and improving the quality of life for patients with this rare combination of cardiac abnormalities. Further research is warranted to better understand the optimal treatment strategies, and long-term outcomes in this specific population.
Oral microbiota dysbiosis in pediatric patients undergoing treatment for acute lymphoid leukemia
Authors: Souza André Vieira , Marinho Nancy Barros , Barbosa Leonardo Vinícius , de Castro Alejandra Adriana Cardoso , Carboni Edna Kakitani , Watanabe Flora Mitie , Costa Libera Maria Dalla , Mesa Dany , Machado-Souza Cleber 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common neoplasm in childhood, characterized by rapid production of abnormal lymphoid cells. The instituted chemotherapy for these patients can promote a serious imbalance in oral microbiota.
Methods
A pediatric prospective study using a control group (without ALL) and ALL patients in two moments of treatment (pre-induction and consolidation) was executed. Clinical and laboratorial data was collected. In addition, DNA from saliva samples of patients was extracted for 16S rRNA sequencing.
Results
Clinical data showed higher degree of oral mucositis in the consolidation phase. Analysis of alpha biodiversity (observed taxa) showed a significant decrease in bacterial richness in patients in the consolidation phase. Network analysis showed that the key taxa in the consolidation phase were Neisseria flavescens, Prevotella melaninogenica and Porphyromonas.
Conclusions
The results showed that LLA treatment can lead to significant changes in the composition of the oral microbiota, with reduced bacterial diversity and increased degree of oral mucositis.
Characterization of wear and friction between X160CrMoV12 tool steel and carbon steel sheet during reciprocating sliding tests
Authors: YANGUI Wissal , KALLEL Mouna , ELLEUCH Khaled , GUERMAZI Noamen 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Hinges manufacturing in the industry is realized in five operations by a progressive die. These steps are crushing, cutting, bending, cold plastic rolling (CPR), and finally calibration. Specific wear of the die was revealed in the CPR process. This experimental work deals with the investigation of the tribological behaviour of tool - workpiece material pairs: a cold work tool material (X160CrMoV12) sliding against carbon steel sheet (S235JR) used in the CPR operation. Special tribological test was developed using a reciprocating sliding tribometer to simulate the contact between the die and the steel sheet. It emerges as an open friction track that reproduces the industrial production conditions. The investigation of tool sliding direction effect versus rolling direction of the sheet was carried out. Furthermore, the effect of Ni-B 25mL/L TiO2 sol composite coating deposited on the X160CrMoV12 steel was studied under the considered tribological configuration. The observations and analyses of the pin surface as well as the friction track of the sheet were conducted by scanning electron microscopy, optical microscope and 3D profilometer. It was found that a significant damage was observed on the X160CrMoV12 pin surface when it slides perpendicular to the rolling direction of the S235JR plate. The Ni-B 25mL/LTiO2 sol composite coating applied on the pin surface showed a reduction of wear on the pin and on the plate. Hence, the friction decreased, and the lifetime of the contact increased, which can be a good alternative for industrial applications.
Multi-Party Privacy Policy Management in Healthcare: User Study and Proposed Solution
Authors: Sun Luyi , Yang Bian , Yeng Prosper , Fauzi Muhammad Ali 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
With the use of assisted living technologies and health monitoring systems, there is an increasing number of electronic health services. Regardless of the benefits that health monitoring systems have brought to users, they are in the face of privacy challenges, which can influence users’ adoption of these technologies. One of the challenges is multi-party privacy policy management.
Objective
We aim to help synchronize privacy settings among several parties, eliminate users’ privacy concerns, increase technology adoption, and ensure health services are better delivered. Methods: We conducted a user study with the scope of collecting several participants’ opinions on multi-party privacy policy management in the context of health monitoring. The study included one focus group and eight semistructured interviews. Eleven participants were recruited in total, and eight questions were predetermined. Content analysis was adopted to extract key information and tables including condensed meaning units were generated.
Results
The user study resulted in five main findings, which were summarized from participants’ answers. Based on these findings, we put forward a four-layer privacy policy management solution to help with the conflict resolution.
Conclusions
In all, participants have a common sense on several questions while some of the questions need to be further investigated. More complicated scenarios will also be considered to improve the multi-party privacy policy management solution in future work.
Factors associated with undiagnosed hypertension amongst Tongan adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: FIFITA SEINI SIAHI TALANOAFOOU , Nonaka Daisuke , Cama Mele Tilema , Filise Mele Inu 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Hypertension is responsible for many premature deaths worldwide. However, many individuals with hypertension remain undiagnosed. Tonga is one of the countries that has had a steep increase in hypertension among women. Thus, undiagnosed hypertension could also be increasing. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence and factors associated with undiagnosed hypertension among Tongan adults.
Methods
This cross-sectional study used data collected from 473 participants in the six villages on the main island of Tongatapu. Trained surveyors collected the data by conducting interviews and measuring blood pressure through household visits between February and March 2023. The inclusion criteria for study participants were age of 18–65 years, residence in the villages for at least six months, and not being pregnant. Fisher’s exact test and mixed-effect logistic regression were performed using the EZR application to assess the association between undiagnosed hypertension and predictor variables.
Results
The prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension was 22.4% (106/473). There were five variables that were significantly associated with undiagnosed hypertension in Fisher’s exact test and were included in the multivariate logistic regression. Overall, three variables remained significant. First, participants who never had their blood pressure measured had higher prevalence compared to those who had it checked recently (33.3% vs. 26.6%). Participants who were not aware of the risk of developing hypertension were significantly more likely to have undiagnosed hypertension compared to those who were aware (27.9% vs. 16.7%). The last factor was middle-aged participants (30–49 years) and older (50–65 years), who were more likely to have undiagnosed hypertension compared to those who were 18–29 years old (prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension: 30.0% and 23.7% vs.11.8%, respectively).
Conclusion
The prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension could be substantial among Tongan adults, indicating a need to address this issue. Undiagnosed hypertension was associated with having experience with blood pressure measurement, lack of awareness about hypertension, and age, so the Tongan government should provide people with more opportunities to have their blood pressure measured and to improve their awareness.