bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Handwriting Training with a Board Prototype: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors:   Department of Occupational Therapy, Yamagata Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Japan, Suzuki Yumi , Fujii Hiromi ,   Graduate School, Yamagata Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Japan, Haba Yuuki ,   PAS Corporation, Onodera Aoi ,   Department of Rehabilitation, Shonai Amarume Hospital, Japan, Nakamura Yuuka ,   Department of Rehabilitation,Yamagata Saisei Hospital, Japan, Nakamura Sakiko ,   Department of Rehabilitation, Shonai Amarume Hospital, Japan
Published: January 2025

Purpose: This study investigated whether handwritten characters differ between letter tracing on a handwriting training system
developed by the authors and letter tracing training on a paper. This study is registered in the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (Trial
registration number: UMIN000055578).
Materials and methods: This study developed a training system in which patients traced lines and figures carved onto a board. A
training board and a paper sheet with similar lines and shapes were prepared. In total, 62 randomly selected participants traced lines
and shapes with their nondominant hand for 10 min daily for 2 weeks. Subsequently, an optical character recognition software (Yonn
de CoCo! Personal v.4) was used to evaluate the shape of the characters. The writing pressure was assessed using Trace Coder, and the
fixation numbers were assessed using SMI BeGaze (SensoMotoric Instruments).
Results: The number of fixations decreased, whereas the change in writing pressure per unit time increased after intervention. The
character shapes did not change after training on paper. However, the character shapes improved, and the average writing pressure
increased after practicing on a board.
Conclusions: Tracing lines and shapes carved on a board can effectively improve handwriting with the nondominant hand
The Aetiology of Ill Health Among Urban Slum Communities in Nigeria: A Systematic Review
Authors:   Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada, A Olatunde Oluwasayo , A Olufemi Olusola ,   Society for Good Health, Sustainable Development and Environmental Awareness, Ibadan, Nigeria
Published: January 2025

Background: The UN-Habitat reported that about 65% of Nigeria's urban population lives in slums, while millions are
without access to basic amenities including clean water, sanitation, and adequate housing. The impact of slum environments
on specific diseases has also been documented, highlighting a need to review the causes in a single study and provide a
comprehensive understanding of current issues.
Methods: This study utilized the PRISMA protocol to systematically review the literature on the causes and challenges of ill
health among Nigerian slum communities. Research articles were sourced from Africa-Wide Information, Cochrane Library,
Global Health, and PubMed databases. 22 articles, which met the inclusion criteria were included in the final review.
Result: Nigeria is experiencing the proliferation of slum settlements in Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Kano, and Port Harcourt. Ill
health conditions were linked to high population density, poor sanitation and waste management, lack of basic amenities
including clean water, high poverty rate, poor education, and drug abuse. Cholera, malaria, tuberculosis, respiratory
infections, and diarrheal were common diseases further exacerbated by socioeconomic and infrastructural limitations to
access formal healthcare services.
Conclusions: Effective intervention strategies are urgently needed to mitigate health challenges and improve the well-being
of slum populations.
The Importance of Early Intervention in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Coates Samantha
Published: January 2025

A satellite symposium titled ‘Transforming MS Care: Early Intervention and Sustained Safety’ held at the 40th Congress of the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) discussed current challenges and future advances in the management of multiple sclerosis (MS). The symposium discussed the importance of early intervention with disease-modifying therapy (DMT) in people with MS. The session explored the effects of DMT switching in patients with MS, and discussed data on the persistence, patient satisfaction, and long-term safety associated with DMTs. The DAYBREAK OLE trial investigating once-daily ozanimod showed that early treatment with high-efficacy DMT is essential to improve disability outcomes, preserve cognition, and delay MS disease progression.
EFFECTS OF CONSTRUCTION CURLING ON CONCRETE PAVEMENT BEHAVIOR
Authors: Yu H. Thomas , Khazanovich Lev
Published: January 2025

Numerous factors can cause jointed plain concrete pavement (JPCP) slabs to develop a permanent upward curled shape (concave up) even when the slabs are not subjected to any temperature gradients. These factors include the temperature gradient locked into the slabs during construction (the temperature gradient at the time of concrete hardening), differential shrinkage, and moisture gradient. Pavement design features such as joint spacing, dowels, and base type, and material properties such as thermal coefficient and shrinkage characteristics affect the magnitude of construction curling. This paper illustrates the effects of construction curling on critical stresses in JPCP and the consequent effects on slab cracking. The effects of construction curling on pavement deflections and surface profile are also discussed. Also presented is a procedure for estimating the magnitude of construction curling based on curling deflections monitored over a range of temperature conditions. Field data from I-80 Pennsylvania are presented to illustrate the effects of construction curling and the procedure for estimating the magnitude of construction curling.
MSI Undergraduate Career Readiness Intervention: Preparing UCR Political Science Majors for the Job Market
Authors: Wood Joshua
Published: January 2025

The Department of Political Science at the University of California–Riverside put together a series of career workshops for undergraduates during AY 22-23 and AY 23-34. These workshops were intended to convey to political science majors the career choices ahead of them, put students in touch with existing UCR resources, and, more generally, to render concrete and recognizable the steps students should take in order to reach their career goals. We encountered three abiding challenges at the center of our project. These were the challenges of resolving persistent technical issues, attracting panelists, and drawing in students. The purpose of this article is to convey the steps that we took to develop these career workshops and to meet challenges so that other departments similarly positioned might benefit from our experience.
Läsundervisning för att gynna pojkars läsning
Authors: Andersson Ulrika
Published: January 2025

Vi beskriver samverkansarbetet med att utveckla, genomföra och utvärdera en läsundervisningsmodell för att gynna pojkars läsning i lågstadiet. Vi bygger modellen utifrån intervjuresultat från lärare och pojkar inom ramen för ett ULF-projekt.
Three-dimensional reconstruction and connectivity analysis of REV-size organic matter in shales
Authors: Liu Dongchen , Yang Xuefeng , Zhao Shengxian , Zhang Deliang , Huang Shan , Zhu Ning , Rong Jianqi , Shi Bowen , Wang Zhiwei , Qin Chao-Zhong
Published: January 2025

Organic matter (OM) serves as a crucial site for shale gas generation and occurrence. Its content and spatial connectivity significantly influence gas flow ability and gas occurrence. However, in characterizing the three-dimensional (3D) connectivity of OM, current imaging techniques such as FIB-SEM and nano-CT cannot balance field of view (FoV) and image resolution. To address this gap, in this work, we develop a novel workflow for numerical reconstruction of REV-size digital rocks of OM that integrates high-resolution information of pore structures in large-view MAPS (modular automated processing system) images. Specifically, the open source code, SliceGAN, is used in the 3D reconstruction of digital rocks of OM, while the high-resolution information of OM pore structures is integrated into the digital rocks in terms of the classification of OM in the MAPS images. The classification of OM is solely based on the surface or 2D porosity of individual OM watersheds. As a first attempt, we propose three types of OM including Type A with high porosity (>20%), Type B with medium porosity (10%∼20%), and Type C with low porosity (<10%). Based on the case studies of three in-situ shale samples with different OM contents, we show that at the REV size the three types of OM, as a whole, can form conducting pathways throughout the domains, but each type of OM is disconnected. Type A and Type B OM have poor connectivity, while Type C OM holds the best connectivity dominating gas transport at the REV scale. Moreover, the reconstructed 3D digital rocks of OM can be used in the numerical modeling of REV-size gas transport in shales.
Stress and anxiety in schools: a multilevel analysis of individual and class-level effects of achievement and competitiveness
Authors: Becker Saskia Jasmin , Börnert-Ringleb Moritz
Published: January 2025

Stress and anxiety are commonly experienced by students in schools. Both phenomena are mutually dependent and associated with various negative outcomes. A range of variables have been addressed when explaining the development of stress and anxiety and the need to consider classroom-level effects becomes clear. So far, the effects of individual as well as classroom-level competitiveness on stress and anxiety have not been focused. This study aims to address this research gap and examines associations between achievement, competitiveness, stress and anxiety. Therefore, cross-sectional self-reports of 591 students from 10 secondary schools in Germany were collected using a paper-pencil-questionnaire in regular classrooms and analyzed using hierarchical linear modeling. The results highlight the relevance of achievement and competitiveness for the experience of anxiety and stress of students. Academic achievement on individual and class level were related to individual and classroom levels of stress and anxiety. Similarly, competitiveness on both levels was positively associated with the experiences of stress and anxiety. Consequently, the study highlights the relevance of achievement and competitiveness for the experience of anxiety and stress of students and emphasizes a need for adequate educational support.
Exploring the nexus of migration dynamics and urban expansion: key drivers of horizontal spatial growth in Woldia Township, Ethiopia
Authors: Fente Mulu Fasigo , Abebe Birhanu Girma , Woldeamanuel Mintesnot Gebeyehu
Published: January 2025

Ethiopia remains one of the least urbanized countries globally, although many of its urban centers, including Woldia, the capital of the North Wollo Zone, are undergoing rapid growth. Woldia has recently faced significant urban challenges due to its expanding horizontal growth. One of the major issues associated with this growth is the increasing demand for land and space, driven by population pressure, largely attributed to migration. This migration has led to the annexation of agricultural land at the rural periphery, further contributing to the town’s horizontal expansion. This study aims to explore the key drivers behind the horizontal growth of Woldia, particularly in its peripheral areas. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to a randomly selected sample of 395 respondents, complemented by key informant interviews and secondary data sources. Both qualitative and quantitative analytical methods were employed. The findings indicate that poor social services and poverty in migrants’ areas of origin are the primary push factors. Conversely, improved social infrastructure and job opportunities at the destination are the main pull factors. Consequently, the influx of migrants has resulted in significant pressure on peri-urban areas, where housing availability and accessibility remain limited. The study recommends that local government officials and urban planners enhance their understanding of migration dynamics to effectively manage the town’s spatial expansion and address the challenges of accommodating a growing population.
LncRNAs in serum-derived extracellular vesicles are potential biomarker and correlated with immune infiltration in gastric cancer
Authors: Ding Juan , Teng Yunyan , Cui Rongshu , Liu Jin , Xiao Ke , Dong Zhaogang , Zhang Yi , Xu Xiaofei
Published: January 2025

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been confirmed as effective non-invasive biomarkers for multiple diseases. However, their expression and clinical value in gastric cancer (GC) remain poorly understood.

Materials and methods

Serum EV RNA was extracted from four patients with GC and four healthy controls, followed by high-throughput RNA sequencing. LncRNAs were further validated in training and validation sets using quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Results

A total of 37,684 lncRNAs were obtained, and 10 lncRNAs were selected based on the criteria (P < 0.05 and |log2FoldChange| ≥1). Serum EV lncRNA RMRP, RPPH1, and linc-ROR were significantly higher in patients with GC than in those with chronic gastritis, atypical hyperplasia, or healthy control (all P < 0.05). Three lncRNAs were also significantly correlated with tumor diameter, lymphatic metastasis, distal metastasis, and TNM stage (all P < 0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) values for lncRNA RMRP, RPPH1, and linc-ROR were 0.727, 0.774, and 0.811, respectively. Corresponding sensitivity and specificity were 63.4% and 85.4%, 50.7% and 89.6%, and 78.5% and 66.7%. The combination of these three lncRNAs with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) yielded an AUC of 0.909, with a sensitivity and specificity of 83.3% each. Furthermore, high EV linc-ROR and RMRP expression levels were associated with worse disease-free survival and overall survival (OS). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses confirmed that linc-ROR was the only independent prognostic factor for GC. Finally, the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network showed that three lncRNAs were predicted to interact with 15 miRNAs and 69 mRNAs. In addition, lncRNA RMRP and linc-ROR were correlated with immune cell infiltration, including neutrophils, central memory CD4 T cells, macrophage, and natural kill T cells.

Conclusion

EV lncRNAs are prospective biomarker and correlated with immune cell infiltration in GC. It provides a foundation for the development of serum EV-targeted novel biomarkers and immunotherapy targets of GC.
Real-world outcomes of Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments lenses on retarding axial elongation in myopic children and adolescents
Authors: Chun Rachel K. M. , Wong Kryshell Y. Q. , Lam Carly S. Y. , To Chi-ho , Liu Kenneth K. K. , Wong Yin-zhi , Tang Wing-chun , Chan Nicole , Kwok Dora , Cheung Max , Yung David , Lam Andrew K. C.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the effect of Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) lenses on myopia progression and axial elongation in a clinical population.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted using clinical data from 489 and 156 patients aged 3 to 17 years old who were prescribed DIMS and single vision (SV) lenses, respectively at the Optometry Clinic of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University between July 2018 and August 2019. The study included patients with previous myopia control interventions. The changes in spherical equivalent refraction (SER) and axial length (AL) were measured and normalized to annual changes. The correlation between age at baseline and annual change in AL was also examined.

Results

The total change in SER and AL after DIMS were −0.94 ± 0.79D and 0.55 ± 0.40 mm, respectively with an average wearing period of 31.98 ± 9.97 months. The normalized annual changes in SER and AL in DIMS wearers were significantly smaller than those in SV wearers (DIMS; SER change vs. AL changes; −0.38 ± 0.32D vs. 0.22 ± 0.16 mm. SV; −0.45 ± 0.41D vs. 0.29 ± 0.20 mm, p < 0.05). Patients with a history of myopia control had greater myopia progression after wearing DIMS lenses. There was a significant negative correlation between age at baseline and annual change in AL (correlation coefficient, r = −0.61, p < 0.001), suggesting that myopia progression was faster in children with a younger age of onset. A small proportion of patients (2.7%) experienced a clinically significant axial shortening (total change in AL:−0.13 ± 0.07 mm) after wearing DIMS lenses more than 2 years.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that DIMS lenses could retard axial elongation, with the effect sustained with increased duration of lens wear. However, patients with previous myopia control experienced greater myopia progression after wearing DIMS lenses. The study also highlighted the potential for axial length shortening in a small proportion of patients after the DIMS lens wear. These findings underscore the importance of adherence to intervention in achieving optimal treatment efficacy. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying these effects and to optimize the use of optical interventions in myopia control.
Diagnosis and detection of bone fracture in radiographic images using deep learning approaches
Authors: Aldhyani Theyazn , Ahmed Zeyad A. T. , Alsharbi Bayan M. , Ahmad Sultan , Al-Adhaileh Mosleh Hmoud , Kamal Ahmed Hassan , Almaiah Mohammed , Nazeer Jabeen
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Bones are a fundamental component of human anatomy, enabling movement and support. Bone fractures are prevalent in the human body, and their accurate diagnosis is crucial in medical practice. In response to this challenge, researchers have turned to deep-learning (DL) algorithms. Recent advancements in sophisticated DL methodologies have helped overcome existing issues in fracture detection.

Methods

Nevertheless, it is essential to develop an automated approach for identifying fractures using the multi-region X-ray dataset from Kaggle, which contains a comprehensive collection of 10,580 radiographic images. This study advocates for the use of DL techniques, including VGG16, ResNet152V2, and DenseNet201, for the detection and diagnosis of bone fractures.

Results

The experimental findings demonstrate that the proposed approach accurately identifies and classifies various types of fractures. Our system, incorporating DenseNet201 and VGG16, achieved an accuracy rate of 97% during the validation phase. By addressing these challenges, we can further improve DL models for fracture detection. This article tackles the limitations of existing methods for fracture detection and diagnosis and proposes a system that improves accuracy.

Conclusion

The findings lay the foundation for future improvements to radiographic systems used in bone fracture diagnosis.
Previous treatment decreases efficacy of pralsetinib in RET fusion-positive non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Wang Lei , You Yafei , He Wenzhuo , Hou Yu , Li Lan , Wang Li , Jiang Chang , Yi Jiahong , Xia Yaoxiong , Xia Liangping
Published: January 2025

Background

Pralsetinib is a selective RET inhibitor. The ARROW trial revealed that RET fusion-positive non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) can benefit from pralsetinib with tolerable adverse events (AEs). However, the efficacy and safety of pralsetinib in real world has rarely been reported.

Materials and methods

This study reviewed the efficacy and safety of pralsetinib in RET fusion-positive NSCLC patients between March 2021 and December 2021. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated by a Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank test. A Cox regression model was performed to identify independent prognostic factors.

Results

A total of 28 patients were enrolled, and the median follow-up time was 18.1 months. The objective response rate and disease control rate of the whole cohort were 57.2% and 71.4%, respectively, and the median PFS and OS were 8.1 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 3.1–13.2] and 13.8 months (95% CI, 2.8–24.8), respectively. Baseline characteristics of the treatment naive group and pre-treated group were listed. The median PFS tended to be better in treatment naive group (18.3 vs. 8.0 months, P = 0.067), while the median OS were similar between the two groups (28.4 vs. 11.6 months, P = 0.308). Patients with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS) score of 2 had worse median PFS comparing with those with ECOG PS score of 0–1 (3.8 vs. 12.6 months, P = 0.004). Besides, patients previously treated with platinum-based chemotherapy (PBC) also revealed worse median PFS comparing with those without previous PBC (8.0 vs. 18.6 months, P = 0.023). Furthermore, patients previously treated with anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1) antibody or multikinase inhibitors (MKIs) showed worse median OS compared with those without previous anti-PD-1 antibody (5.0 vs. 22.0 months, P = 0.002) or MKIs (6.2 vs. 28.4 months, P = 0.015). The most common AEs was increased aspartate aminotransferase (39.3%).

Conclusion

Pralsetinib was effective in RET fusion-positive NSCLC with tolerable AEs in real-world practice. Efficacy of pralsetinib was decreased in patients previously treated with PBC, immunotherapy, or MKIs.
Gut microbiota and quantitative traits divergence at different altitude of long-tailed dwarf hamsters, Cricetulus longicaudatus
Authors: Ren Yue , Tao Mengfan , Wang Xiaoliang , Pu Xinsheng , Guo Guangtong , Chen Kuiyou , Zhao Bingyu , Hou Yu , Yang Xin'gen , Xu Yumei
Published: January 2025

To investigate the community structure and diversity of gut microflora and their function in body mass regulation, as well as the effects of various locations on gut microbiota and Cricetulus longicaudatus body mass regulation at various elevations. We examined the diversity, abundance, and community structure of the gut microbiota of long-tailed dwarf hamsters from eight regions in Shanxi province during summer using 16S rDNA sequencing technology and analyzed the relationships between these microbiota and environmental variables as well as morphological indicators. The results revealed Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes as the dominant phyla at the phylum level, with Lactobacillus emerging as the predominant genus. We observed differences of gut microflora between different areas, and this diversity is affected by altitude. The high-altitude areas individuals had lower β diversity of gut microbiota than the low-altitude area. Moreover, the body and skull indexes of long-tailed dwarf hamsters also changed with altitude. The result presented in this study indicated that the body size of long-tailed dwarf hamsters conforms to Bergmann's law. And Providencia had significant correlation with body size. Finally, functional analysis of the gut microbiota showed changes in metabolic function that depended on elevation, and collinear network analysis showed how the gut microbiota interacts with each other. All of these results suggest that long-tailed hamsters are different depending on their altitude, with altitude being the main factor affecting both the structure of microbes and the way their metabolism works. This study shows that altitude has a big effect on the gut microbiota and phenotypic traits of long-tailed hamsters. It also shows how well this species can adapt to changes in altitude.
Association of interictal epileptiform discharges and serum concentration of levetiracetam and lamotrigine
Authors: Lang Johannes D. , Willno Alexander , Reindl Caroline , Welte Tamara , Stritzelberger Jenny , Gollwitzer Stephanie , Walther Katrin , Hamer Hajo
Published: January 2025

Background

Interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) are an electrographic biomarker of epilepsy. Despite their crucial role in diagnosing epilepsy, heterogeneous findings exist on the mechanisms underlying their occurrence and the effects of anti-seizure medications (ASMs) on IEDs.

Methods

We conducted a study to investigate the association between IED frequency and the serum concentration of two commonly used ASMs, levetiracetam (LEV) and lamotrigine (LTG). We included 56 patients undergoing a continuous video EEG monitoring in our center with tapering of ASM. IED frequency was analyzed using automated and semiautomated methods and serum samples were collected sequentially throughout the stay.

Results

The cohort consisted of 41 patients (23 female, 18 male), between 19 and 64 years (mean 37.42 years), most of which were diagnosed with focal epilepsy (93%). IED frequency increased after ASM reduction revealing a negative correlation similarly with LEV and LTG serum concentrations (p = 0.0057 and p = 0.0426, respectively).

Discussion

Notably, we observed a significant increase in IED frequency following dose reduction or discontinuation of both medications. This effect was reversed after ASM were re-dosed. This may indicate the suppressive properties of LEV and LTG against epileptic seizures. Furthermore, our study highlights the importance of ASM discontinuation, which may be required for capturing IEDs during diagnostic continuous EEG monitoring, and not be fully explained by circadian or ultradian rhythms alone.

Conclusion

Our findings contribute to the understanding of ASM effects on IED frequency dynamics and suggest seizure suppressive properties of LEV and LTG.
Stem cell-derived exosome treatment for acute spinal cord injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis based on preclinical evidence
Authors: Mou Chunlin , Xia Ziyao , Wang Xiujuan , Dai Xunan , Wang Jiaxian , Zhang Chun , Xu Yongsheng
Published: January 2025

Background

The study aims were to systematically review and analyze preclinical research on the efficacy of exosomes derived from various mesenchymal stem cell sources (MSC-exos) for the treatment of spinal cord contusion injury (SCI) in small animal models.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar databases from their inception through February 29, 2024, to identify eligible English-language studies based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Two independent investigators performed literature screening, data extraction and bias assessment.

Results

A total of 235 rats were used to assess locomotor recovery at the initial assessment, and exhibited significant improvement in hind limb movement in those treated with exosomes, as indicated by a statistically significant increase in Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) scores (MD: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.14–1.38, p < 0.01) compared to the controls. This trend persisted in final assessment data across 21 studies, with pooled analysis confirming similar results (MD: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.43–1.68, p < 0.01). Funnel plot analysis indicated asymmetry in the pooled BBB scores at both baseline and endpoint assessments, suggesting potential publication bias. Exosomes were derived from bone marrow, adipose tissue, umbilical cord or human placental MSCs. Meta-analysis results showed no statistically significant differences in therapeutic efficacy among these MSC-exos sources at various treatment time points.

Conclusion

MSC-exos demonstrated considerable promise in improving motor function in SCI-affected rats, with bone marrow MSC-derived exosomes having particularly notable effectiveness.
Evaluation of Siemens Healthineers’ StrokeSegApp for automated diffusion and perfusion lesion segmentation in patients with ischemic stroke
Authors: Teichmann Lynnet-Samuel J. , Khalil Ahmed A. , Villringer Kersten , Fiebach Jochen B. , Huwer Stefan , Gibson Eli , Galinovic Ivana
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the perfomance of Siemens Healthineers’ StrokeSegApp performance in automatically segmenting diffusion and perfusion lesions in patients with acute ischemic stroke and to assess its clinical utility in guiding mechanical thrombectomy decisions.

Methods

This retrospective study used MRI data of acute ischemic stroke patients from the prospective observational single-center 1000Plus study, acquired between September 2008 and June 2013 (clinicaltrials.org; NCT00715533) and manually segmented by radiologists as the ground truth. The performance of the StrokeSegApp was compared against this ground truth using the dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and Bland–Altman plots. The study also evaluated the application’s ability to recommend mechanical thrombectomy based on DEFUSE 2 and 3 trial criteria.

Results

The StrokeSegApp demonstrated a mean DSC of 0.60 (95% CI: 0.57–0.63; n = 241) for diffusion deficit segmentation and 0.80 (95% CI: 0.76–0.85; n = 56) for perfusion deficit segmentation. The mean volume deviation was 0.49 mL for diffusion lesions and −7.69 mL for perfusion lesions. Out of 56 subjects meeting DEFUSE 2/3 criteria in the cohort, it correctly identified mechanical thrombectomy candidates with a sensitivity of 82.1% (95% CI: 63.1–93.9%) and a specificity of 96.4% (95% CI: 81.7–99.9%).

Conclusion

The Siemens Healthineers’ StrokeSegApp provides accurate automated segmentation of ischemic stroke lesions, comparable to human experts as well as similar commercial software, and shows potential as a reliable tool in clinical decision-making for stroke treatment.
Risk factors for perioperative cerebral infarction in moyamoya disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Jincan , Li Shiju , Liang Ruixin , Wang Yanxu , Shi Fangyuan , Pan Xiaoming , Chen Xinyi
Published: January 2025

Background

The present study explored the risk factors for cerebral infarction perioperative moyamoya disease by meta-analysis.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, Web of science databases were searched for case–control/cohort studies on risk factors for the emergence of cerebral infarction perioperative moyamoya disease, the search was done from the database creation to June 1, 2024, and the data was analyzed by using stata15.0.

Result

Ten retrospective cohort studies (N = 3,239) were included. Meta-analysis results suggested posterior cerebral artery involvement [OR = 2.62, 95%CI (1.36, 5.06)], preoperative magnetic resonance angiography [OR = 2.81, 95%CI (1.27, 6.22)], previous infarction [OR = 2.52, 95% CI (1.69, 3.75)] were risk factor for the development of cerebral infarction perioperative moyamoya disease.

Conclusion

This study proves that posterior cerebral artery involvement and grade of preoperative magnetic resonance angiography is higher, and the previous infarction happened moyamoya disease a risk factor for cerebral infarction. Therefore, people with these risk factors should be intervened in advance to prevent the occurrence of perioperative cerebral infarction.
Exploring the acceptance of mozzarella cheese in school lunches among school-aged children: a pilot study
Authors: Lin Xiaofang , Zhang Qin , Wu Qiong , Huo Wenxuan , Zhang Xiaoying , Geng Shanshan , Lv Yizhou , Li Yuanyuan , Wang Yilun , Dong Linjing , Leng Xue , Lin Zhenghao , Szeto Ignatius Man-Yau , Wang Zhixu
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Dairy products are an important source of high-quality protein, calcium, vitamin A, and other nutrients, and they are a crucial part of a balanced diet for children. However, the daily intake of dairy products among school-age children in China is significantly inadequate. Considering school lunches as a vital pathway for children to obtain nutrients, this study aims to develop school lunch dishes incorporating mozzarella cheese and to assess the acceptance of these dishes among school-age children.

Methods

This study was carried out in a primary school which has a self-run canteen in Nanjing. We innovatively integrated cheese with traditional Chinese food, and conducted a 3-month pilot study to develop dishes that meet the nutritional needs and sensory experience of students. 121 students with an average age of 9.8 years were invited to assess each dishes’ appearance, aroma, taste and overall liking, by using a 5-point Likert Scale. Focus group discussions were conducted after the project to further discover students’ attitude toward cheese dishes and canteen cooks’ experience in improving cheese dishes.

Results

During the program, 16 cheese dishes were made, including 3 steamed dishes, 2 ready-to-eat foods (only heating required), and 11 stir-fried dishes. The overall liking’ results showed that ready-to-eat foods were the most popular among students, and steamed dishes ranked higher than stir-fried dishes (P < 0.001). Among the stir-fried dishes, students’ liking scores differed for cheese dishes made from different raw materials, pure meat food was more popular than vegetable food (P = 0.003), meat and vegetable food (P = 0.012). Additionally, focus group discussions found that students gave more positive ratings to and ready-to-eat foods and steamed dishes.

Conclusion

Cheese can be well combined with traditional Chinese ingredients and be accepted, especially steamed or combined with meat. Introducing cheese in school lunches not only helps cultivate a habit of consuming cheese among children and adolescents from a young age, but also aids in closing the gap between their dairy consumption and dietary guidelines.
Research progress and perspectives on the application of tyramide signal amplification-based multiplex immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence: a bibliometrics analysis
Authors: Yu Xiaotong , Huang Chen , Song Yan , Zhang Chun , You Debo , Dong XuRan , Wu DeFu , Meeker Alan Keith , Feng Hao , Wang Yuqing
Published: January 2025

Background and aims

Multiplex immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence (mIHC/IF), which uses the tyramide signal amplification (TSA) technique, enables sequential staining of multiple targets in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples without worrying about cross-reactivity. This approach has received considerable attention from researchers over the past decades. This article aims to provide a bibliometric analysis of the research progress and perspectives on the application of TSA-based mIHC/IF.

Methods

We collected all the TSA-based mIHC/IF documents published between 2007 and 2023 from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. CiteSpace, VOSviewer and Bibliometrix R Package were used to perform the bibliometrics analysis, including details about annual publications, countries, institutions, authors, journals, and research topics and hotspots.

Results

A total of 873 relevant publications (811 articles and 62 reviews) with a time span of 17 years (2007-2023) were obtained. The number of annual publications started to increase rapidly since 2016. The United States (307, 35.17%) and the People’s Republic of China (297, 34.02%) are the top two listed countries for both the number of articles produced and the citations. The University of Texas System (53, 6.07%) was the most productive institution. Integrating these results of hotspot and frontier analysis, TSA-based mIHC/IF provides significant benefits, particularly in neurology, cancer and immunology.

Conclusion

This study conducted a comprehensive bibliometric analysis for the use of TSA-based mIHC/IF. As TSA-based mIHC/IF and its associated imaging systems and analytic software progress, it will become the most promising tool for describing the variety of the whole tissue for a better understanding of pathological or physiological behavior.
Immunolipid magnetic bead-based circulating tumor cell sorting: a novel approach for pathological staging of colorectal cancer
Authors: Deng Qingyan , Li Weidong , Huang Yueming , Wang Haitao , Zhou Xinhao , Guan Zhifen , Cheng Bohao , Wang Yao
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to assess whether circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from colorectal cancer (CRC) could be used as an alternative to tissue samples for genetic mutation testing, overcoming the challenge of difficult tumor tissue acquisition.

Methods

We developed an immunolipid magnetic bead (IMB) system modified with antibodies against epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) and vimentin to efficiently separate CTCs. We prepared EpCAM-modified IMBs (Ep-IMBs) and vimentin-modified IMBs (Vi-IMBs). The separation efficiency of the system was evaluated via in vitro experiments and by capturing and counting CTCs in blood samples from 23 CRC patients and 20 healthy controls. Hotspot mutations in patient tissue samples were identified via next-generation sequencing (NGS), whereas mutations in blood CTCs were detected via Sanger sequencing. The concordance between hotspot mutations in tumor tissue and blood CTCs was analyzed.

Results

The CTC sorting system exhibited good dispersion, stability, and low cytotoxicity, with a specificity of 90.54% and a sensitivity of 89.07%. CRC patients had an average of 8.39 CTCs per 7.5 mL of blood, whereas healthy controls had 0.09 per 7.5 mL of blood. The consistency of gene mutations was as follows: TP53 (91.31%), PIK3CA (76.00%), KRAS (85.36%), BRAF (51.00%), APC (65.67%), and EGFR (74.00%), with an overall gene mutation consistency of 85.06%.

Conclusion

Our CTC sorting system, which is based on Ep-IMBs and Vi-IMBs, effectively captures CTCs in the peripheral blood of CRC patients and enables clinical hotspot gene mutation testing via these enriched CTCs. This system partially solves the problem of difficult tumor tissue sample collection and provides a reference for gene mutation testing in early diagnosis, therapeutic efficacy evaluation, prognosis assessment, and minimal metastasis detection in CRC patients, showing significant potential for clinical application, especially in targeted therapy gene testing for CRC.
Long term survival following cryoablation with adjuvant Toripalimab for anorectal malignant melanoma: a case report
Authors: Jiang Xuejun , Ji Zujin , Li Peng , Yuan Fangjun , Lei Xinyi , Yang Yong
Published: January 2025

Background

Anorectal malignant melanoma is a rare subtype of melanoma with a poor prognosis. Despite this, some patients decline Miles’ operation due to the sigmoid colostomies that follow abdominoperineal resections in cases of anorectal malignant melanoma.

Case report

We report the case of an 80-year-old woman diagnosed with anorectal malignant melanoma who underwent cryosurgery accompanied by adjuvant PD-1 therapy to maintain anal sphincter function. The results indicated that we successfully achieved the goal of sphincter preservation and therapeutic efficacy. The patient derived significant benefits from the cryoablation treatment.

Conclusions

Ultrasound-guided trans-anal cryoablation, when combined with adjuvant PD-1 therapy, offers a novel treatment approach for patients with anorectal malignant melanoma. Our results have confirmed the advantages of this treatment regimen, particularly for those desiring to retain anal sphincter function. Further studies are required to substantiate the efficacy of ultrasound-guided trans-anal cryoablation with adjuvant Toripalimab and to elucidate its underlying mechanisms.
Lowering light intensity while extending photoperiod at a constant daily light integral synergistically interacts with warm temperature to enhance leaf expansion and crop yield in lettuce in the absence of far-red light
Authors: Jeong Sang Jun , Zhen Shuyang , Zhang Qianwen , Niu Genhua
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Low light intensity and far-red (FR) light act as shade signals to induce specific morphological changes mediated by plant photoreceptors phytochromes (PHYs). Applying FR light or lowering light intensity over a longer photoperiod at a constant daily light integral (DLI) can increase crop yield by enhancing leaf expansion and photon capture. However, PHY activity is also dependent on temperature. We aimed to investigate the interactive effects of FR light, light intensity, photoperiod, and temperature on plant growth and morphology.

Methods

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) ‘Rex’ was grown under three temperatures (20, 24, and 28 °C), each containing six light treatments [two levels of FR light (0 and 20% FR in total photon flux density from 400-800 nm) x three light intensities (150, 200, and 300 μmol m-2 s-1)]. As light intensity increased, photoperiod was reduced (150, 200, and 300 μmol m-2 s-1 with photoperiods of 24 h, 18 h, and 12 h, respectively) to maintain a constant DLI of 13 mol m-2 d-1.

Results

Under 0% FR light, the combination of lower light intensity/longer photoperiod and warmer temperature synergistically enhanced leaf expansion and photon capture; however, this interactive effect disappeared under 20% FR light. Stem elongation exhibited an opposite response pattern to leaf expansion; lower light intensity and warm temperature had a synergistic enhancement on stem elongation under 20% FR light, but not under 0% FR light. Shoot dry weight responded to the light and temperature factors similarly to total leaf area. Our results showed that plant biomass accumulation depended primarily on photon capture (r2 = 0.93), rather than single-leaf photosynthetic efficiency. Antioxidant capacity was generally reduced by lower light intensity and FR light, but the reduction could be compensated by warmer temperatures.

Discussion

Thus, we concluded that applying lower light intensity over a longer photoperiod, combined with warm temperature, can effectively maximize leaf expansion and crop yield while maintaining nutritional quality in the absence of FR light. However, under strong shade signals composed of FR light, low light intensity, and warm temperature, lettuce prioritizes stem elongation at the expense of leaf expansion, leading to reduced crop yield.
The challenge of a late diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder: co-occurring trajectories and camouflage tendencies. a case report of a young Autistic female with Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
Authors: Passarini Sara , Guerrera Silvia , Picilli Maria , Fucà Elisa , Casula Laura , Menghini Deny , Pirchio Sabine , Zanna Valeria , Valeri Giovanni , Vicari Stefano
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Autistic individuals may show several psychiatric co-occurrences, including Feeding and Eating Disorders (FEDs). Avoidant and Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) consists of avoidance or restriction in food intake, leading to significant weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and marked interference with psychosocial functioning. Both Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ARFID are characterized by the two main features of cognitive rigidity and sensory sensitivity, which may complicate differential diagnosis. There is a notable lack of information on the manifestation of ASD-ARFID co-occurrence, as well as tailored assessment tools and practice, and therapeutic approaches.

Case description

This report provides a detailed description of L., a young girl with a late diagnosis of ASD who also developed unspecific depressive mood disorder and ARFID in co-occurrence. After the diagnosis of ASD, L. underwent multiple evaluations to address emerging psychiatric co-occurrences and symptom exacerbation, and in order to develop the most effective integrated treatment.

Conclusion

The case of L. expands the knowledge on the phenotype of Autistic females and exemplifies how delayed diagnosis may exacerbate functioning differences and increase the camouflage phenomenon. Additionally, it underscores the importance of improving tailored evaluation, combined treatment plans, with both cognitive-behavioral therapy and drugs, and monitoring the evolving patterns of Autistic manifestations and associated psychiatric co-occurrences.
Prevalence and determinants of HIV among reproductive-age women (15–49 years) in Africa from 2010 to 2019: a multilevel analysis of demographic and health survey data
Authors: Gedefie Alemu , Muche Amare , Mohammed Anissa , Ayres Aznamariam , Melak Dagnachew , Abeje Eyob Tilahun , Bayou Fekade Demeke , Belege Getaneh Fekadeselassie , Asmare Lakew , Endawkie Abel
Published: January 2025

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains the leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. The incidence of HIV is disproportionately higher in Sub-Saharan regions, particularly the Southern African sub-region, which is the most affected region and accounts for 77% of all new HIV infections in the region. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify the determinants of HIV among reproductive-age women in Africa.

Methods

This study was conducted among reproductive-age women in Africa, based on secondary data obtained from the Demographic Health Survey (DHS) conducted between 2010 and 2019. The outcome variable was HIV status, while individual- and community-level variables served as potential predictors. The model fit was assessed using Akaike’s Information Criterion, Bayesian Information Criterion, and − 2 Log likelihood. Then, multilevel mixed-effects analysis was used. Intra-cluster correlation coefficient, median odds ratio, and proportional change in variance were used to measure heterogeneity between clusters.

Results

A total of 292,810 unweighted and 293,773 weighted reproductive-age women in 26 African nations were included in this study. The overall prevalence of HIV among reproductive-age women in Africa was 4.34% (95% CI: 4.2, 4.4%). The highest percentage of HIV was found in Lesotho (23.98%), followed by South Africa (19.12%), and Mozambique (14.67%). However, the lowest HIV prevalence was found in Niger (0.54%), Senegal (0.59%), and Burundi (0.79%). Southern Africa has the highest HIV burden (18.5%), followed by Eastern Africa (6.1%), while Western African countries have the lowest HIV burden. Increasing maternal age, higher maternal education, women who were unemployed, a history of multiple sexual partners, women in a union, community-level educational status, community-level wealth index, African sub-region, and urban residence were found to be independent predictors of HIV infection in Africa.

Conclusion

The burden of HIV has remained higher, highlighting the need for targeted public health intervention strategies to prevent the transmission of HIV among key populations.
The impact of social media addiction on the negative emotions of adolescent athletes: the mediating role of physical appearance comparisons and sleep
Authors: Lin Weilong , Cen Zhenyu , Chen Ying
Published: January 2025

Extensive use of social media is commonly associated with the development of social media dependency and amplification of adverse emotions among adolescent athletes. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and path analysis were employed to investigate the impact of social media addiction on the negative emotions experienced by adolescent athletes. This study included a sample of 362 adolescent athletes (aged 14–21) participating in various sports events at training facilities in Guangdong and Hunan. Data collection was performed using the Social Media Addiction Scale, Body Appearance Comparison Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). The findings suggest that social media addiction contributes directly to heightened negative emotions in adolescent athletes. In addition, physical appearance comparisons and sleep quality were identified as mediating factors that intensify the influence of social media addiction in terms of negative emotions. Consequently, it is recommended to underline the importance of mental health support for adolescent athletes, implement effective strategies for managing social media use, promote healthy body image perceptions, enhance sleep quality, and address negative emotions among adolescent athletes.