bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Desistance from criminal offending: exploring gender similarities and differences
Authors: Gunnison E. 
Published: December 2024

Objective: to reveal the similarities and differences between female and male discrete offender groups (desisters, persisters, late onseters, and conformers). Methods: dialectical approach to cognition of social phenomena, allowing to analyze them in historical development and functioning in the context of the totality of objective and subjective factors, which predetermined the following research methods: formal-logical and sociological. Results: while some researchers have concluded that psycho-social predictors of crime are similar across gender, other criminologists have argued that predictors of crime may vary between females and males. The results from this investigation reveal some similarities and differences in the risk factors between discrete offender groups by gender and the predictors of female and male desistance from crimes. Therefore, researchers studying desistance cannot assume the generality of effects of variables across gender; rather, they must also consider the possibility of specific effects of predictors on female and male desistance. Scientific novelty: Over the past several decades, researchers have more fervently examined female offending. The criminal career research paradigm put forth by Blumstein and colleagues in 1986 offers an opportunity for researchers to examine offending, including female offending, from multiple perspectives including onset, persistence, and desistance from a multitude of theoretical traditions. Using data from the National Youth Survey, this investigation examined the similarities and/or differences between female and male discrete offender groups (desisters, persisters, late onseters, and conformers) and theoretical predictors of desistance and persistence from less serious crimes. Results of the research revealed significant gender differences between the discrete offender groups as well as similarities and differences between the genders in predictors of desistance and persistence for less serious crimes. Practical significance: the main provisions and conclusions of the article can be used in scientific, pedagogical and law enforcement activities when considering the issues related to preventing and eliminating crimes.
Conditions for Effective Use of Liposomal Irinotecan with Fluorouracil and Leucovorin in Unresectable Pancreatic Cancer After FOLFIRINOX Treatment
Authors: Okada Yasuyuki , Sato Yasushi , Shinomiya Ryo , Miyake Takanori , Takahashi Taku , Yokoyama Reiko , Mitsui Yasuhiro , Tomonari Tetsu , Okamoto Koichi , Sogabe Masahiro , Miyamoto Hiroshi , Kawano Yutaka , Takayama Tetsuji 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Liposomal irinotecan + fluorouracil/leucovorin (nal-IRI + 5FU/LV) is commonly used as a second- or later-line treatment for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and offers survival benefits. However, its efficacy and safety in patients previously treated with FOLFIRINOX, which includes irinotecan, remain unclear. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of nal-IRI + 5FU/LV in patients with unresectable PDAC who received previous FOLFIRINOX therapy and those who did not.
Methods
This retrospective observational study included 42 patients with PDAC who were treated with nal-IRI + 5FU/LV (October 2020–November 2023). Patients were grouped based on prior FOLFIRINOX treatment.
Results
The progression-free survival (PFS) in patients who previously received modified FOLFIRINOX (mFFX) therapy was shorter than that in patients who did not (2.5 months vs. 3.5 months, P = 0.07). When patients with greater than- and less than the cut-off value of irinotecan-free interval (IFI) were classified into the long and short IFI groups, respectively, PFS was significantly longer in the long-IFI group than that in the short IFI group (4.0 months vs. 2.1 months, P = 0.01). Moreover, the C-reactive protein/albumin ratio (CAR) was also a significant predictor of PFS (P = 0.03). Furthermore, both factors were found to be independent factors influencing PFS in the univariate Cox regression analysis (P = 0.02 and P = 0.04).
Conclusion
Nal-IRI + 5FU/LV therapy may be a safe and effective option as a second- or later-line treatment, particularly for patients who have not previously received mFFX therapy. For patients who received prior mFFX exposure, a longer IFI and lower CAR may indicate greater potential benefit, thus aiding in more personalized treatment approaches.
Systemic immune-inflammation index and serum lactate dehydrogenase predict the prognosis of non-metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients receiving intensity-modulated radiotherapy
Authors: Zhang Chunxia , Zhan Zhouwei , Zhang Yanping , Chen Bijuan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Growing evidence indicates that the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) are correlated with the prognosis of various malignancies. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of pre-treatment SII and LDH in patients with non-metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). We conducted a retrospective analysis of 756 cases of non-metastatic NPC and determined the cut-off values of SII and LDH using Xtile software, which were 150 and 447, respectively. Independent prognostic factors for survival outcomes were identified using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression analysis. Patients in the high SII group had significantly worse prognosis in 5-year OS (76.5% vs. 86.7%, p < 0.001), 5-year DMFS (77.3% vs. 85.4%, p < 0.001), and 5-year PFS (67.9% vs. 80.5%, p < 0.001) compared to the low SII group. Patients in the high LDH group had significantly worse prognosis in 5-year OS (72.1% vs. 85.0%, p < 0.001), 5-year DMFS (72.1% vs. 84.8%, p < 0.001), and 5-year PFS (63.7% vs. 77.7%, p < 0.001) compared to the low LDH group.Multivariate analysis showed that high SII and high LDH were significantly associated with poorer OS(p = 0.005 vs.p < 0.001), DMFS(p= 0.001 vs.p < 0.001), and PFS(p = 0.001 vs.p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that SII and LDH are independent prognostic factors for OS, DMFS, and PFS. In subgroup analysis, this predictive effect was more pronounced in locally advanced stages. Among patients with locally advanced NPC, the combination of SII and LDH showed the highest AUC values for predicting OS, DMFS, and PFS. Pre-treatment SII and LDH are important prognostic factors in patients with non-metastatic NPC. Furthermore, the combination of both provides a more accurate prognosis for patients with locally advanced NPC than either marker alone.
Metabolic expression profiling analysis reveals pyruvate-mediated EPHB2 upregulation promotes lymphatic metastasis in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Miao Jingjing , Chen Boyu , Li Qingyuan , Lu Zhongming , Wang Rui , Wang Chunyang , Jiang Xingyu , Shen Di , Li Yue , Shi Dongni , Ouyang Ying , Chen Xiangfu , Zeng Musheng , Zhang Siyi , Zou Hequn , chen shuwei 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Lymphatic metastasis is a well-known factor for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) that initiates distant metastasis, which caused major death in most patients with cancer. Metabolic reprogramming to support metastasis is regarded as a prominent hallmark of cancers. However, how metabolic disorders drive in HNSCC remains unclear. We firstly established a new classification of HNSCC patients based on metabolism gene expression profiles and identified that an enriched carbohydrate metabolism subgroup that was significantly associated with a high risk of lymphatic metastasis and worse clinical outcome. Moreover, we found that highly activated pyruvate metabolism, a central node in carbohydrate metabolism, endowed tumors with EPHB2 upregulation and promoted lymphatic metastasis independently of VEGF-C/VEGFR3 signaling pathway. Mechanically, high levels of nuclear acetyl-CoA from pyruvate metabolism promoted histone acetylation, which in turn transcriptionally upregulated EPHB2 expression in tumor cells. EPHB2 bound with EFNB1 in lymphatic endothelial cells to alleviate YAP/TAZ-mediated PROX1 transcriptional inhibition, which eventually promoted tumor lymphangiogenesis. Importantly, combined treatment with EFNB1-Fc and VEGFR3 inhibitor synergistic abrogated lymphangiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. These findings uncover the mechanism by which pyruvate metabolism is linked to lymphatic metastasis of tumor and provides a promising therapeutic strategy for the prevention of HNSCC metastasis.
Clinical confocal laser endomicroscopy for imaging of autofluorescence signals of human brain tumors and non-tumor brain
Authors: Reichenbach Marlen , Richter Sven , Galli Roberta , Meinhardt Matthias , Kirsche Katrin , Temme Achim , Emmanouilidis Dimitrios , Polanski Witold , Prilop Insa , Krex Dietmar , Sobottka Stephan B. , Juratli Tareq A. , Eyüpoglu Ilker Y. , Uckermann Ortrud 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Analysis of autofluorescence holds promise for brain tumor delineation and diagnosis. Therefore, we investigated the potential of a commercial confocal laser scanning endomicroscopy (CLE) system for clinical imaging of brain tumors.
Methods
A clinical CLE system with fiber probe and 488 nm laser excitation was used to aquire images of tissue autofluorescence. Fresh samples were obtained from routine surgeries (glioblastoma n = 6, meningioma n = 6, brain metastases n = 10, pituitary adenoma n = 2, non-tumor from surgery for the treatment of pharmacoresistant epilepsy n = 2). Additionally, in situ intraoperative label-free CLE was performed in three cases. The autofluorescence images were visually inspected for feature identification and quantification. For reference, tissue cryosections were prepared and further analyzed by label-free multiphoton microscopy and HE histology.
Results
Label-free CLE enabled the acquisition of autofluorescence images for all cases. Autofluorescent structures were assigned to the cytoplasmic compartment of cells, elastin fibers, psammoma bodies and blood vessels by comparison to references. Sparse punctuated autofluorescence was identified in most images across all cases, while dense punctuated autofluorescence was most frequent in glioblastomas. Autofluorescent cells were observed in higher abundancies in images of non-tumor samples. Diffuse autofluorescence, fibers and round fluorescent structures were predominantly found in tumor tissues.
Conclusion
Label-free CLE imaging through an approved clinical device was able to visualize the characteristic autofluorescence patterns of human brain tumors and non-tumor brain tissue ex vivo and in situ. Therefore, this approach offers the possibility to obtain intraoperative diagnostic information before resection, importantly independent of any kind of marker or label.
The Relationship Between Sleep and Problem Behaviours in Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Ghanim Fanar , Harkness Kelsey , Wiley Bevin , Guadagni Veronica , Murias Kara 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is commonly associated with sleep disturbances. Sleep disruption can contribute to difficulties in a child’s life and; therefore, can be an important determinant of their quality of life. This study uses data from the large multisite Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) database to examine the relationship between sleep and behaviour in children with ADHD. We hypothesized that shorter and more interrupted sleep would relate to increased problem behaviours such as inattention and social difficulties.Methods Sleep data was obtained using commercially available actigraphy (Fitbit) measures, and The Parent Sleep Disturbance Scale (SDS) for 212 children ages, 10 to 13 years, with ADHD and an age and sex matched control group (n = 212). Behavioural and emotional subscores were obtained from the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL).Results SDS sleep data was significantly different between ADHD and control groups, while Fitbit actigraphy data was not. ADHD diagnosis, family income, sleep latency (measured by Fitbit) and 3 out of 6 of the SDS subscores were significantly related to problem behaviour scores.Conclusion The results of this study indicate that family report of sleep difficulties but not Fitbit actigraphy measures of sleep were associated with behaviour and emotional responses in children with ADHD. Family report of sleep difficulties, direct measures of sleep parameters, as well as behaviour and quality of life, should be considered when evaluating or investigating sleep in children to better understand the influence on health and functioning.
Ultra-sensitive, tumor-informed ctDNA profiling in pembrolizumab-treated esophagogastric cancer patients predicts clinical responses
Authors: Nixon Andrew B. , Navarro Fábio C. P. , Zhou Katherine I. , Abbott Charles , McDaniel Lee , Howard Lauren , Brady J Christopher , Liu Yingmiao , Jia Jingquan , Niedzwiecki Donna , Strickler John , Boyle Sean M. , Chen Richard O. , Uronis Hope 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

To explore whether ultra-sensitive circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) profiling enables early prediction of treatment response and early detection of disease progression, we applied NeXT Personal, an ultra-sensitive bespoke tumor-informed liquid biopsy platform, to profile tumor samples from the KeyLargo study, a phase II trial in which metastatic esophagogastric cancer (mEGC) patients received capecitabine, oxaliplatin, and pembrolizumab. All 25 patients evaluated were ctDNA-positive at baseline. Minimal residual disease (MRD) events varied from 406,067 down to 1.5 parts per million (PPM) of ctDNA with a median limit of detection of 2.03 PPM. ctDNA dynamics were highly correlated with changes in tumor size (ρ = 0.59, p = 7.3×10-9). Lack of early molecular response (lack of ctDNA decrease) was associated with worse overall survival (OS) (HR 6.6, 95% CI 1.8-24.1, p = 0.005) and progression-free survival (PFS) (HR 15.4, 95% CI 2.7-87.0, p = 0.002). Lack of molecular clearance of ctDNA was associated with worse OS (HR 6.9, 95% CI 1.5-30.8, p = 0.012) and PFS (HR 19.2, 95% CI 2.4-152.8, p = 0.005). Molecular progression (ctDNA increase) preceded imaging-derived progression by a median lead time of 65 days. These results suggest that ultra-sensitive liquid biopsy approaches could improve treatment decision-making for mEGC patients receiving chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
An Evaluative Case Study of the Status and Quality of STEM Education in Senior High Schools in Ghana
Authors: Osei Emmanuel 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The study aims to investigate the status and quality of Senior High School’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in Ghana since its inception in 2018. Following the utilization of positivist and interpretivism paradigms, the triangulation design convergence model was adopted to collect qualitative and quantitative data from 212 students and 17 teachers across two STEM schools using document analysis, questionnaires, interviews, and observations with equal weighing informing the interpretation. The analysis showed that the STEM curricula in the schools aligned with Ghana's STEM Education policy, with sufficient resources to support its implementation. However, student performance was average attributed to teachers' lack of experience in teaching STEM subjects. The study recommends a full integration of STEM curricula from early education through university to foster critical thinking and creativity. In-service teachers in STEM schools should be taken through rigorous professional development training on how to teach what they know to maximize their students’ interest. Furthermore, education training providers should design the rudiments of teaching STEM subjects and train pre-service teachers specifically for STEM Education. Finally, the Ministry of Education should establish efficient resource procurement systems to ensure the continuous supply of resources to STEM schools.
Activating PIK3CA Mutations of Adipose-derived Stem Cells Drive Mutant-like Phenotypes of Wild-type Cells in Macrodactyly
Authors: Wang Bin , Zhang Xiao , Yin Yating , Wang Zhibo , Jiang Yongkang , Yu Aiping , Dai Xinyi , Wang Xiaoli , Guo Xuesong , Mao Hailei 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Pathological adipose proliferation is one of characteristic manifestations of macrodactyly. Although PIK3CA gain-of-function mutations are known to impact adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) in macrodactyly, their effects on adjacent wild-type cells are poorly understood.
Methods
We utilized conditioned medium and transwell systems to investigate the influence of macrodactylous adipose-derived stem cells (Mac-ADSCs) on normal ADSCs, fibroblasts (FBs), and vascular endothelial cells (VECs). Cellular behavior changes were assessed by proliferation, migration, invasion, adipogenesis, and angiogenesis assays. RNA sequencing, cytokine array analysis, and western blotting were used to explore the differential secretion of cytokines, and the pathways activated.
Results
Our research demonstrated that Mac-ADSCs enhance the proliferation, migration, invasion, adipogenesis, and angiogenesis of wild-type ADSCs, FBs and VECs, attributable to the activating mutation in PIK3CA. This enhancement is predominantly mediated through the direct action of various paracrine secreted cytokines. Meanwhile, the differentially secreted cytokines could over-activate PI3K-AKT signaling pathway in wild-type cells. BYL-719, a potent PIK3CA inhibitor, emerges as a potential therapeutic option for reversing the paracrine effects induced by Mac-ADSCs.
Conclusions
The activating PIK3CA mutation modify the paracrine characteristics of Mac-ADSCs, inducing secretion of cytokines that drive adjacent wild-type cells to exhibit mutant-like phenotypes. Targeting PIK3CA could be a viable therapeutic option for macrodactyly, particularly in cases where paracrine signaling contributes to disease progression.
Clinical Outcomes of FLACS with Crater phaco-chop Technique for Grade 5 Leathery Brown Nuclear Cataracts
Authors: Huang Zhiqing , Song Xiaoqing , Hu Yingfeng , Wang Yan , Zhang Rong , Ye Xiangyu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS) with crater phaco-chop technique for treating grade 5 leathery brown nuclear cataracts, compared to standard FLACS phaco-chop technique.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with grade 5 cataracts who underwent either FLACS+phaco-chop (Group 1) or FLACS+crater+phaco-chop (Group 2). Outcome measures included intraoperative complications, cumulative dissipated energy (CDE), uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), endothelial cell density (ECD), and central corneal thickness (CCT) at baseline and postoperatively at various time points.
Results: Preoperative characteristics were similar between groups. During surgery, Group 1 encountered one case of posterior capsular rupture (PCR) and two anterior capsular tears. Intraoperative CDE was significantly lower in Group 2 compared to Group 1 (P=0.026). Postoperative CCT was significantly thinner in Group 2 on the first day after surgery (P=0.042). The rate of ECD loss was consistently lower in Group 2 across all follow-up time points (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Utilizing the crater phaco-chop technique in FLACS for treating grade 5 leathery brown nuclear cataracts reduces corneal endothelial damage and minimizes intraoperative complications compared to traditional FLACS, ensuring a more secure and efficient cataract extraction.
Factors predicting conversion from Colon Capsule Endoscopy to Conventional Optical Endoscopy - findings from the CESCAIL Study
Authors: Lei Ian Io , Parisi Ioanna , Bhandare Anirudh , Perez Francisco Porras , Lee Thomas , Shehkar Chander , McStay Mary , Anderson Simon , Watson Angus , Conlin Abby , Badreldin Rawya , Malik Kamran , Jacob John , Dixon Andrew , Butterworth Jeffrey , Parsons Nicholas , Koulaouzidis Anastasios , Arasaradnam Ramesh P. , Huhulea Cristiana , Wenzek Hagen , White Elizabeth , Noble Charlie 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Colon capsule endoscopy (CCE) has become an alternative to traditional colonoscopy for low-risk patients. However, CCE's low completion rate and inability to take biopsies or remove polyps often result in a CCE-to-conventional colonoscopy conversion (CCC).
Objective(s):
The aim is to identify the factors that predict issues with bowel cleansing, capsule excretion rates, pathology detection, and the need for CCC.
Methods
This prospective study analysed data from patients who underwent CCE as part of the CESCAIL study from Nov 2021 till June 2024. Predictive factors were examined for their association with CCC, including patient demographics, comorbidities, medications, and laboratory results from symptomatic and surveillance groups. Statistical methods such as LASSO, linear, and logistic regression were applied.
Results
603 participants were analysed. Elevated f-Hb levels (OR = 1.48, 95% CI:1.18–1.86, p = 0.0002) and smoking (OR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.01–2.11, p = 0.047) were significantly associated with CCC. The area under the curve (AUC) of elevated f-Hb for predicting CCC was 0.62 after adjusting for confounders. Diabetes was linked to poor bowel preparation (OR = 0.40, 95%CI:0.18–0.87, p = 0.022). Alcohol (p = 0.004), smoking (p = 0.003), psychological conditions (p = 0.001), and haemoglobin levels (p = 0.046) were significantly associated with the number of polyps, whilst antidepressants (p = 0.003) and beta-blockers (p = 0.001) were linked to the size of polyps.
Conclusion
Non-smokers with lower f-Hb levels are less likely to need conventional colonoscopy (CCC). Patient selection criteria are key to minimising the colonoscopy conversion rate. Our findings would benefit from validation in different populations to develop a robust CCE Conversion Scoring System (CECS) and ultimately improve the cost-effectiveness.
The role of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on glycemic control and lipid profiles in reproductive-aged women with pre-diabetes.
Authors: Yelisetti Anuhya Sateesh , Chandrasekaran Nirmala Devi , Sivan Gisha , Lenin Raji Rajesh , M Poovitha , Kumar Jananrdana S 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Prediabetes is a precursor to type 2 diabetes and healthy interventions results in delay or postponing. To evaluate the benefits of omega-3 fatty acid supplements in reducing glycemic and lipid profiles in reproductive-aged women with Prediabetes.
Material and Methods- This is a Randomized placebo Controlled Trial conducted on 90 patients at a tertiary Hospital and Research Centre, in India. After randomization one group (n=45) received placebo and the other received (n=45) Omega3 fatty acid supplement (1000mg) twice daily. Blood samples were collected from all participants in the morning after 12 h of fasting for lipid profile. The insulin resistance was determined using the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index, and the beta-cell function using the HOMA-B index.
Results- After a follow-up perid of three months subsequent to the drug intervention, the average FBS showed a significant reduction to 99.5 ± 8.6 (p <0.0001) in post group. Conversely, there was no notable alteration observed in the average PPBS, HbA1c, and fasting insulin levels, the mean HDL, LDL, VLDL, between the Pre and post groups. The average HOMA-IR and average TGL were decreased in the Post group (p <0.0001).
Conclusion- In the present study omega 3 fatty acid supplementations improved fasting blood sugar, triglycerides and HOMA-IR in reproductive-aged women with pre-diabetes. Considering the impact of Prediabetes in reproductive health and its outcome, omega-3 supplementation, therefore, can be recommended as a therapeutic option for glycemic control in these individuals.