bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Robust Online Trauma Detection for Cochlear Implant Surgery
Authors: Liu Yuansan , Wijewickrema Sudanthi , Bester Christofer , O'Leary Stephen , Bailey James 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Hearing loss is an impairment that affects a large population worldwide. Cochlear Implantation (CI) is an effective solution, especially in patients with residual, natural hearing. However, the risk of intracochlear damage during CI surgery, that impairs residual hearing, remains as a concern. It has been shown that intra-operative monitoring during CI surgery can detect and prevent such trauma. Researchers have attempted to automate the process of trauma detection by implementing supervised models. However, these have so far failed to achieve good reliability and generalizability. To address these issues, we develop an unsupervised model based on the Bayesian method with a scoring function derived from the Logistic function. The proposed model, as a data-driven method, directly learns from data without the need for any supervision which enhances its adaptability to diverse patient populations. Empirical results demonstrate the proposed model's high accuracy with a low false alarm rate (18 extra detection against 146 in previous work), as well as its robustness when processing new data. This indicates its potential for real-world application to improve safety during CI surgery.
A Case of Right Atrial Thrombus Mimicking Cardiac Myxoma: Surgical and Postoperative Management
Authors: Awashra Ameer , Salameh Ahmad A , Milhem Fathi , Karmi Hamza B , Thabet Thabet M , Madi Hamad 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Intra-atrial thrombi, though rare, can develop in either atrium, with a higher prevalence in the left atrium. The causes are often difficult to determine, leading many cases to be classified as having uncertain origins.
Case Presentation: We present the case of a 35-year-old non-smoking male with a history of deep vein thrombosis who experienced worsening shortness of breath and pleuritic chest pain. Echocardiography revealed a right atrial thrombus extending into the left atrium through a patent foramen ovale. The thrombus was surgically excised; however, the patient developed postoperative complications, including pericardial effusion, pulmonary embolism, and acute liver injury. Following treatment and close monitoring, his condition stabilized, and he was discharged on anticoagulation therapy. Diagnosing intra-atrial thrombi presents significant challenges due to a broad differential diagnosis. Accurate assessment often requires multimodal imaging techniques, including echocardiography, CT angiography, and PET scans. Treatment options include anticoagulation, thrombolysis, and surgical thrombectomy, but there is no universal consensus on the optimal management approach.
Conclusion: Therefore, early detection of intra-atrial thrombi, timely surgical intervention when indicated, and vigilant postoperative monitoring with continued anticoagulation are essential for improving patient outcomes. Consequently, further research is necessary to elucidate the underlying etiologies and enhance diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for this rare condition.
Evaluation of tumorous LCP1 and ADPGK as predictive biomarker for immune-related adverse events in bone and soft tissue sarcomas treated with anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 antibodies
Authors: Zhang Qing , Wang Zhe , Zeng Xueqing , Ding Yi , Wang Chen 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) have been utilized in bone and soft tissues sarcoma patients under multiple circumstances in combination with surgeries and chemotherapy. Regretfully, immune-related adverse events (irAE) increases as the usage of ICI increases. Since a large portion of bone and soft tissues sarcoma patients gain long survival times after successful removal of the tumors which makes clinicians to avoid regimens that causes adverse events, especially lifetime irAE. Hence, predicting the development of irAE are of special significance for utilizing ICI in bone and soft tissues sarcoma patients. We have retrospectively stained tumorous LCP1 and ADPGK, two biomarkers previously reported to predict ICI induced irAE, with surgical removed, formalin-fixed and parrffin-embedded samples in a cohort of 56 bone and soft tissues sarcoma patients. We observed that the most common irAE in bone and soft tissues sarcoma patients received ICI is hyperglycemia and high grade irAE happens predominately in patients over 30 years old. Immunochemistry revealed that both LCP1 and ADPGK were elevated in tumorous tissues of patients developed irAE and bivariate-model of LCP1 and ADPGK severs as a better biomarker in comparison to LCP1 or ADPGK alone in the entire cohort. In osteosarcoma, LCP1 alone exhibited an outstanding predication value with an AUC of 0.9244 (P value of 0.0013 and a 95% CI of 0.8178 to 1.000). LCP1 and ADPGK bivariate-model serves as a promising biomarker for predicting ICI induced irAE in bone and soft tissues sarcoma patients while LCP1 alone works better in bone malignancy especially in osteosarcoma.
Assessing tolerable viscosity differences in polymer-to-polymer welding
Authors: Marcus Miranda , Drake Elizabeth , Nitsch Matt , Corey Zach 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The welding of dissimilar polymers is becoming increasingly common. There are a couple key drivers to this trend. First, many new plastics applications must be used in environments where adhesives cannot be easily applied, such as for medical products where finding adhesives that pass FDA regulations is nearly impossible. Another key area where dissimilar polymers are joined is for highly engineered applications in which a material is needed for its very specific — and expensive — engineered properties. Often, the expensive material will need to be joined to a lower-cost material to provide some nearby structure that does not require the same specialized properties. A third driver is the need to save space for small or very compact assemblies. Even a thin layer of adhesive can be a significant barrier to performance for some products, such as small electronics. Lastly, an assembly may require the joining of components that must be manufactured via different processes, such as joining an injection-molded frame to an extruded bag. Due to the different plastics production processes used, the two parts can have very different thermal properties even if they are the same type of polymer. One of the most critical properties affecting dissimilar polymer joining is viscosity. If the polymers’ viscosity is not similar enough, intermolecular diffusion cannot occur. The goal of this work is to set clear boundaries on the tolerable limits of the viscosity mismatch that can be accommodated and still result in intermolecular diffusion. Polymers of the same grade of material were heated conductively using a hot plate to different temperatures, then the melt layers were pressed together in the standard hot plate welding approach. The parts were then tensile tested and cross-sectioned to determine relative strength and whether intermolecular diffusion occurred. By using the same grade of material heated to different temperatures, the independent variables are minimized, and the effect of viscosity can be clearly identified. The test data was then analyzed for statistically significant shifts to identify the maximum allowable difference in viscosity.
Identification and Analysis of Key Genes Related to Metabolism in the Brain of Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Yang Hui , Wang Jinxi , Lei Shihui , Meng Pan , Du Qing , Long Hongping , Wang Yuhong , Li Wei 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prevalent neuropsychiatric condition and has become the second leading cause of mortality after cancer. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is recognized as one of the brain regions most consistently affected by MDD. While both functional and structural abnormalities in the PFC have been shown to be associated with disruptions in energy metabolism, the specific genes involved in metabolic processes within this region remain poorly understood.
Methods
Datasets related to major depressive disorder (MDD) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were analyzed in this study. Initially, differentially expressed metabolism-related genes (DE-MRGs) were identified by intersecting differentially expressed genes from normal and MDD patient samples with metabolism-related genes. Subsequently, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed based on the DE-MRGs, and hub genes were identified using the Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) plugin. A logistic regression prediction model was then developed. To further assess the findings, Spearman correlations, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), and predictions of transcription factors and microRNAs targeting the hub genes were conducted. Finally, the expression of the hub genes and their potential mechanisms were validated and predicted using an animal model of depression.
Results
In this study, we identified 223 differentially expressed metabolism-related genes. Utilizing the MCODE plugin methods, we further identified 12 hub genes among these differentially expressed genes. Expression validation results indicated that the expression of ACLY, DLD, DLAT, FH, and SLC25A3 were consistent across various datasets for both MDD and control samples. GSEA revealed that these genes were significantly enriched in pathways associated with oxidative phosphorylation, Parkinson's disease, and the proteasome. Furthermore, animal experiments demonstrated that the expression levels of ACLY, DLD, DLAT, and FH were significantly reduced in the PFC of rats subjected to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) induction. Additionally, further investigation into the transcription factors and regulatory signals of ACLY revealed a significant decrease in the mRNA expression of SREBF1, along with marked reductions in the protein levels of PI3K, Akt, and p-ACLY.
Conclusions
Four key genes were identified based on metabolic characteristic genes. The PI3K/AKT/ACLY signaling pathway may play a significant role in the regulation of metabolism in major depressive disorder (MDD). These findings establish a theoretical foundation and provide valuable references for the study of central metabolism in MDD.
Comparing Discriminatory Behavior Against AI and Humans
Authors: Zhuang Mike , Deschrijver Eliane , Ramsey Richard , Turel Ofir 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Although discrimination is typically believed to occur from well-defined categories like ethnicity, disability, and sex, studies have found that discrimination persists in minimal conditions lacking such categories. Participants have been found to preferentially allocate resources based on seemingly arbitrary shared characteristics such as dot estimation choices. Here, we use a preregistered experiment (n = 500) to investigate whether humans discriminate in a similar manner when interacting with artificial intelligence (AI) agents that ostensibly made dot estimations. We hypothesized that because humans harbor prejudice against algorithms relative to other humans (otherwise known as algorithm aversion), the strength of discriminatory behavior may be greater against AI than humans. Surprisingly, we found that participants distributed resources in a similar manner, albeit unequally, to both human and AI agents. Specifically, participants favored the other agent when decisions were aligned. Our findings suggest that discriminatory behavior is less influenced by the recipient’s identity and more shaped by choice congruency.
Prediction models and prognostic analysis of immune-related acute kidney injury in lung cancer patients
Authors: Qian Suying , Xu Ningjie , Qu Yihui , Zhu Rongrong , Zhang Minqiao , Chen Kanan , Wang Jing , Lu Xiaoyan , Cai Kedan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are extensively utilized in lung cancer patients, with documented instances of ICIs-associated acute kidney injury (ICIs-AKI). This study aims to explore the incidence rates, clinical features, risk factors, and prognostic outcomes of ICIs-AKI, while developing a model for early recognition of ICIs-AKI.
Methods: The study involved 413 adult lung cancer patients treated with ICIs at Ningbo No.2 Hospital between Sept. 1, 2021, and June 30, 2023. Patients were followed until death or Dec. 31, 2023, and categorized into ICIs-AKI or non-AKI groups. Prediction models for ICIs-AKI were developed using logistic regression and MLP neural networks. Cox proportional-hazards models assessed the association between ICIs-AKI and overall survival.
Results: The study included 381 lung cancer patients receiving ICIs treatment after excluding 32 patients. ICIs-AKI occurred in 13.39% of cases, with a median onset time of [123 (63, 303)] days. Multivariable logistic analysis identified diabetes, proteinuria, extrarenal irAEs, diuretic use, and chemotherapy as significant risk factors (all P<0.05), while higher baseline eGFR levels were protective (P<0.05). Two prediction models were developed: logistic regression (AUC=0.877, sensitivity=0.922, specificity=0.726) and MLP (AUC=0.950, accuracy=0.843, precision=0.847). Survival analysis showed no difference in overall survival between ICIs-AKI and non-AKI groups (HR=1.021, 95% CI=0.629-1.659, P=0.932; adjusted HR=0.950, 95% CI=0.558-1.616, P=0.849). AKI to CKD progression incidence was 58.82%, with no significant difference in overall survival between CKD and non-CKD groups (P=0.157).
Conclusion: This study offers detailed insights into ICIs-AKI, including its rate, onset timing, risk factors, and clinical features. Approximately half of the affected patients experienced spontaneous renal function recovery. Both logistic regression and MLP models effectively predicted ICIs-AKI. Importantly, neither ICIs-AKI incidence nor renal function restoration correlated with patient mortality. These findings improve understanding of ICIs-AKI and underscore the importance of early detection and management strategies.
Assessment of different genotyping markers and algorithms for distinguishing Plasmodium falciparum recrudescence from reinfection in Uganda
Authors: Mwesigwa Alex , Golumbeanu Monica , Jones Sam , Cantoreggi Sara L. , Musinguzi Benson , Nankabirwa Joaniter I. , Bikaitwoha Everd Maniple , Kalyango Joan N , Karamagi Charles , Plucinski Mateusz , Nsobya Samuel L. , Nsanzabana Christian , Byakika-Kibwika Pauline 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Antimalarial therapeutic efficacy studies are vital for monitoring the efficacy of antimalarial drugs in malaria-endemic regions. The WHO recommends genotyping of polymorphic markers including msp-1, msp-2, and glurp to aid distinguishing recrudescences from reinfections. Recently, WHO proposed replacing glurp with microsatellites (Poly-α, PfPK2, TA1). However, suitable combinations with msp-1 and msp-2 have not been systematically assessed. Additionally, the performance of different algorithms for classifying recrudescence is unclear. This study investigated various microsatellites alongside msp-1 and msp-2 for molecular correction and compared genotyping algorithms across three malaria-endemic areas in Uganda. Microsatellites 313, Poly-α, and 383 exhibited the highest diversity, while PfPK2 and Poly-α revealed elevated multiplicities of infection across all sites. The 3/3 match-counting algorithm classified fewer recrudescences than the ≥ 2/3, and Bayesian algorithms at both ≥ 0.7 and ≥ 0.8 probability cutoffs. The msp-1/msp-2/2490 combination identified more recrudescences using the ≥ 2/3 and 3/3 algorithms in the artemether-lumefantrine (AL) treatment arm, while msp-1/msp-2/glurp combination identified more cases of recrudescence using the ≥ 2/3 in the dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DP) arm. Microsatellites PfPK2 and Poly-α, potentially sensitive to detecting minority clones, are promising replacements for glurp. Discrepancies in recrudescence classification between match-counting and Bayesian algorithms highlight the need for standardized PCR correction practices.
Recommended National diagnostic reference levels for adult abdominopelvic computed tomography examinations in Ethiopia
Authors: Getachew Solomon , Teferi Seife , Nguse Teklehaimanot Mezgebe , Zewdeneh Daniel 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Computed Tomography plays a crucial role for diagnostic purpose; however, delivering minimum radiation dose to patients is the common challenge.
Objective
The main objective of this study was to establish abdominopelvic national diagnostic reference levels (NDRL) in Ethiopia .
METHODS
A quantitative cross-sectional study design was employed in 23 health facilities. A total of 800 abdominopelvic CT scans of patients were evaluated from January, 2023 to March, 2024. Scan parameters, patient profile and CT dose indicators were collected using a structured data collection format. Third quartile median values of computed tomography dose index (CTDIvol) and dose length product (DLP) were calculated using Microsoft Excel 2016 and SPSS software version 26. Finally, the results were compared with national, regional, and international DRL.
Result
The third quartile values obtained from the median values of DLP and CTDIvol that were used as NDRL were 1387 mGy. cm and 10.5 mGy, respectively .
Conclusion
The proposed NDRL of CTDIvol is less than all African and non-African countries, while that of DLP values were intermediate and substantially higher than similar African and non-African studies respectively.
The value of nomogram analysis in predicting pulmonary metastasis in hepatic alveolar echinococcosis
Authors: Long Changyou , Danzeng Yeang , Tian Pengqi , Xing Yujie , Zhang Xueqian , Bao Haihua 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (HAE) is a rare zoonotic parasitic disease that closely resembles malignant tumors in both behavior and appearance. It can cause infiltration of affected organs and chronic liver damage. In advanced stages, it may metastasize or invade surrounding organs, resembling liver cancer, and is clinically referred to as "parasitic cancer." However, the prognosis of HAE with pulmonary metastasis is poor, and no reliable method currently exists to predict lung metastasis. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of a nomogram model, based on CT and MRI imaging features in conjunction with clinical indicators, for predicting pulmonary metastasis in HAE. A retrospective analysis was conducted using imaging and clinical data from 297 patients diagnosed with HAE. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses identified independent factors associated with pulmonary metastasis, including lesion size, the presence of metastasis to other organs, cavitary lesions, and enhancement characteristics. The nomogram, developed using these variables, demonstrated strong predictive performance in both the training and validation cohorts. This model provides an effective tool for predicting the risk of pulmonary metastasis, offering early insights into disease progression and assisting clinicians in formulating personalized treatment and prognostic plans.
Advancing the 3D printing of magnetoactive epoxy shape memory composites: correlating the rheology, printability, and shape fidelity
Authors: Zamani Mohammad Hossein , Ounaies Zoubeida 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

shape memory polymers (SMPs) stand out as versatile candidates possessing actuation, shape memory effect, and sensing capabilities. This study investigates the impact of iron oxide (Fe3O4) functionalization by Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) on the magnetic and rheological properties of SMP composites. Optical microscopy shows improved Fe3O4 particle dispersion and distribution due to PEG coating. Magnetic characterization using Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM) reveals enhanced mass magnetization of the functionalized Fe3O4-loaded SMP composites. By replacing unfunctionalized Fe3O4 with Fe3O4_PEG20, the saturation magnetization of SMP composites improved by 19%. Rheological tests reveal that fumed silica has a major effect on the shear thinning behavior of SMP dispersions. Also, PEG functionalized dispersions exhibit enhanced shear thinning behavior and shape fidelity compared to unfunctionalized dispersions. Shape fidelity test revealed the reduction of die-swell of SMP dispersions loaded with Fe3O4_PEG30 and improved percent deformation from 439–5% for SMP(93.39)_Silica(4.11)_Fe3O4(2.5) and SMP(83.81)_Silica(3.69)_Fe3O4(12.5)_PEG30, respectively. The improved rheological behavior and shape fidelity make PEG-functionalized SMP composites promising candidates for 3D printing and other processing methods. These findings contribute to the development of advanced stimuli-responsive materials with tunable properties for various applications, including soft robotics, and biomedical devices.
Evaluation of a Training Program for Healthcare Professionals Supporting Informal Caregivers of People with Dementia: A Pre-Post Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Crutzen Coline , Deprez Laura , Adam Stéphane 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Despite their proven effectiveness, support interventions for caregivers of people with neurodegenerative diseases struggle to be sustainably implemented. In this context, the “Caregivers /Network-Service” (“Aidants Proches / Réseau-Service”) project (Interreg) aimed to create a network of professionals specialized in supporting family caregivers through training programs. The goal of this study was to determine the overall impact of the proposed training.
Methods
A total of 217 healthcare professionals participated in the training, and 108 agreed to take part in the study. Based on the Kirkpatrick-Barr framework (Barr et al., 2000) and the study by Parmar et al. (2022), the training’s outcomes were evaluated at four levels: (1) professionals’ reactions to the training, (2) changes in their learning (knowledge and skills), (3) changes in their practices, (4A) organizational changes, and (4B) clinical changes. For the latter level, a multiple case study was conducted with caregivers receiving individualized support from trained professionals.
Results
The training was highly appreciated and improved the knowledge, skills, and practices of the professionals. It also promoted organizational changes, such as the implementation of new support services for caregivers. The individualized support provided by the trained professionals appeared to have positive clinical effects on caregivers, who also recommended the service.
Conclusion
Given the demonstrated effectiveness of these support services, as highlighted by our research, and in light of the lack of initiatives in the field, we strongly recommend the implementation of such training programs for healthcare professionals.