bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Combining Total Metabolic Tumor Volume With Beta‐2‐Microglobulin Levels Predicts Outcomes in High‐Burden Follicular Lymphoma Patients
Authors: Zduniak A. , Lévêque E. , Draye‐Carbonnier S. , Becker S. , Tonnelet D. , Dubois S. , Vera P. , Tilly H. , Jardin F. , Decazes P. , Camus V. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTWe aimed to explore the predictive value of total metabolic tumor volume (TMTV) and beta‐2‐microglobulin (B2M) levels in patients with follicular lymphoma (FL) with a high tumor burden receiving standard first‐line immunochemotherapy. We analyzed 125 patients with the following characteristics: median age, 61 years (55; 67), advanced‐stage disease, 88.8%; high FLIPI, 49.6%; TMTV, > 510 cm3; B2M, > 3 mg/L (24.8%); and R‐CHOP‐like treatment, 86.4%. We defined the following categories: low‐risk (36%), TMTV ≤ 510 cm3 and B2M ≤ 3 mg/L; intermediate‐risk (45.6%), TMTV > 510 cm3 or B2M > 3 mg/L; and high‐risk (18.4%), TMTV > 510 cm3 and B2M > 3 mg/L. The 5‐year overall survival rates were estimated to be 96.1%, 89.1% and 73.7% for low‐, intermediate‐ and high‐risk patients, respectively (p = 0.003). Patients at intermediate and high risk according to the TMTV/B2M score were at high risk of disease progression within 24 months of treatment initiation (HR = 2.45 [95% CI: 1.23–4.85] and HR = 3.75 [95% CI: 1.7–8.2], respectively). This TMTV/B2M score may identify patients with the highest unmet medical needs.
Smokeless tobacco (snuff) and site‐specific cancer risks in adult Black South African women: Findings from the Johannesburg Cancer Study
Authors: Motlhale Melitah , Sitas Freddy , de Villiers Chantal Babb , Simba Hannah , Feliu Ariadna , Chen Wenlong Carl , Schüz Joachim , Muchengeti Mazvita , McCormack Valerie 
Published: December 2024

AbstractSmokeless tobacco (SLT) use is an established carcinogen to the nasal cavity, lip, and oropharynx, however, few studies have examined cancer risks in older African women among whom SLT use is common. We investigated snuff use and the risk of site‐specific cancers among 15,336 newly diagnosed female cancer patients in the Johannesburg Cancer Study, South Africa. We designed case–control comparisons across multiple cancer outcomes: (a) known SLT‐associated cancers; (b) other tobacco‐related cancers and (c) genital cancers owing to intravaginal snuff use. Controls (n = 2961) comprised all other cancer patients. We also investigated (d) each control cancer type versus the remaining controls to explore possible associations with other cancers. Logistic models were fitted to estimate odds ratios adjusted for age, education, tobacco smoking, alcohol, HIV, and language. Overall, ever use of snuff was 22% among control cancers. Ever snuff use was associated with cervical (OR 1.14 [95%CI 1.00–1.30]) and eye and adnexa cancer (OR 1.95 [95%CI 1.03–3.70]). Associations with vulva cancer were less clear, 95% CI's for the main effects included 1 but a subgroup analysis restricted to never‐smokers of current‐versus‐never users was positive (OR 2.10 [95%CI 1.25–3.50]). Surprisingly SLT users have lower risks of stomach cancer (OR 0.60 [95%CI 0.37–0.99]) and Hodgkin Lymphoma (OR 0.48 [95%CI 0.23–0.97]). Snuff use may increase the risk for cervical and vulva cancer in women, which is plausible via intravaginal use. Further research on the impact of SLT on female genital cancers with more detailed exposure data, including timing, intensity, and routes of use are required.
Deep Depthwise Residual Network for Knee Meniscus Segmentation From Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Thengade Anita , Rajurkar A. M. , Talbar Sanjay N. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThe menisci within the knee are essential for various anatomical functions, including load‐bearing, joint stability, cartilage protection, shock absorption, and lubrication. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides highly detailed images of internal organs and soft tissues, which are indispensable for physicians and radiologists assessing the meniscus. Given the multitude of images in each MRI sequence and diverse MRI data, the segmentation of the meniscus presents considerable challenges through image processing methods. The region‐specific characteristics of the meniscus can vary from one image to another within the sequence. Consequently, achieving automatic and accurate segmentation of meniscus in knee MRI images is a crucial step in meniscus analysis. This paper introduces the “UNet with depthwise residual network” (DR‐UNet), a depthwise convolutional neural network, designed specifically for meniscus segmentation in MRI images. The proposed architecture significantly improves the accuracy of meniscus segmentation compared to different segmentation networks. The training and testing phases utilized fat suppression turbo‐spin‐echo (FS TSE) MRI sequences collected from 100 distinct knee joints using a Siemens 3 Tesla MRI machine. Additionally, we employed data augmentation techniques to expand the dataset strategically, addressing the challenge of a substantial training dataset requirement. The DR‐UNet model demonstrated impressive meniscus segmentation performance, achieving a Dice similarity coefficient range of 0.743–0.9646 and a Jaccard index range of 0.653–0.869, thereby showcasing its advanced segmentation capabilities.
Temporal Order and Developmental Context of Aggressive Attitude and Aggressive Behavior: Testing a Within‐Person Reciprocal Effects Model
Authors: Walters Glenn D. , Runell Lindsey , Kremser Jon 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe purpose of this study was to determine whether the relationship between aggressive attitude and aggressive behavior is reciprocal or bidirectional in nature.MethodA sample of 845 early adolescent youth (406 boys, 439 girls) between the ages of 10 and 13 (mean = 11.21) served as participants in this study. Aggressive attitudes were assessed with 4 items from the Denver Youth Survey Neutralization scale and aggressive behavior was assessed with 5 items from the Self‐Reported Offending scale.ResultsA random intercepts cross‐lagged panel model (RI‐CLPM) analysis revealed that aggressive attitude predicted aggressive behavior from Wave 1 to Wave 2 and from Wave 2 to Wave 3, whereas aggressive behavior only predicted aggressive attitude from Wave 1 to Wave 2. These findings insinuate that while aggressive attitude consistently predicted within‐person increases in aggressive behavior, aggressive behavior may have been less consistent in predicting within‐person increases in aggressive behavior.ConclusionA partial or restricted bidirectional relationship may link aggressive attitude to aggressive behavior such that the reciprocal effect between the two is only or most clearly evident during the transition from childhood to adolescence (i.e., the age 11‐to‐12‐year transition). The theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed.
Study of Serum Metabolic Biomarkers and Prediction Models of Cantharidin‐Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats Based on Dynamic Metabolomics
Authors: Cheng Weina , Feng Wenzhong , Tian Guanghuan , Liu Jingxian , Bai Zhixun , Yu Ming , Yan Rong , Liu Liu , He Yanmei , Li Xiaofei , Zhang Jianyong 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThe clinical application of cantharidin (CTD) is seriously limited due to its nephrotoxicity. Therefore, this study aims to investigate sensitive biomarkers for the evaluation and prediction of nephrotoxicity induced by CTD in rat. A total of 80 rats were randomly divided into four groups: control group and three doses of CTD groups. After 0, 1, 5, 15, and 28 days of intragastric administration, rat serum and urine were collected for biochemical indexes, then serum was used for metabolomic analyses, and rat kidney was collected for pathological and ultrastructural observation. The levels of serum crea (Scr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), urea, urine crea (Ucrea), and urinary microalbumin (UmALB) were significantly increased after administration of different doses of CTD (p < 0.05). Additionally, histopathology and cell ultrastructure observation of kidney showed significant cell inflammatory infiltration and glomerular edema. Seven metabolic biomarkers including 6‐hydroxymelatonin were significantly disturbed by CTD. The CatBoost Classifier prediction model was used to establish the CTD nephrotoxicity prediction model, and the prediction accuracy and precision were 0.645 and 0.640, respectively. Moreover, 6‐hydroxymelatonin was found to be most useful biomarkers for evaluating the CTD nephrotoxicity. Finally, the seven metabolic biomarkers were found mainly involved in pyruvate metabolism, pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis.
The Scale Dilemma: Investigating the Non‐Monotonic Relationship Between Bank Size and Market Value in Emerging Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Economies
Authors: Kullab Yarob , Sahyouni Ahmad , Shehada Mohammed 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis study investigates the non‐monotonic relationship between bank size and market value in the emerging economies of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a focus on comparing Islamic and conventional banks. The analysis uses fixed‐effects panel techniques, supported by random‐effects, pooled OLS, and Hausman–Taylor methods for robustness, based on a sample of 161 publicly listed banks across 17 MENA countries from 2009 to 2022. The findings show that bank size positively influences market value initially, indicating economies of scale, but larger sizes lead to diminishing returns, reflecting a non‐monotonic relationship. This pattern is more evident for conventional banks, while the results for Islamic banks are less conclusive, suggesting the need for further investigation. Islamic banks seem to benefit less from economies of scale, possibly due to unique operational and governance challenges. This study fills a gap in the literature on the size‐market value relationship in emerging markets, offering insights into how local conditions and regulations shape bank performance. It also provides a novel comparison between Islamic and conventional banks, enhancing understanding of sector‐specific dynamics. By challenging the linear assumptions of prior research, the study highlights the complex non‐linear effects of bank size, emphasizing the role of agency conflicts and regulatory oversight in managing systemic risks. The research contributes to both empirical and theoretical discussions on banking scale management and agency theory in emerging market contexts.
Muscle PGC‐1α Overexpression Drives Metabolite Secretion Boosting Subcutaneous Adipocyte Browning
Authors: Miro Caterina , Menale Ciro , Acampora Lucia , Nappi Annarita , Sagliocchi Serena , Restolfer Federica , Torabinejad Sepehr , Stornaiuolo Mariano , Dentice Monica , Cicatiello Annunziata Gaetana 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTMuscle and adipose tissue (AT) are in mutual interaction through the integration of endocrine and biochemical signals, thus regulating whole‐body function and physiology. Besides a traditional view of endocrine relationships that imply the release of cytokines and growth factors, it is becoming increasingly clear that a metabolic network involving metabolites as signal molecules also exists between the two tissues. By elevating the number and functionality of mitochondria, a key role in muscle metabolism is played by the master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis peroxisome‐proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α), that induces a fiber type shift from glycolytic to oxidative myofibers. As a consequence, the upregulation of muscle respiratory rate might affect metabolite production and consumption. However, the underlying mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. Here, we used a muscle‐specific PGC‐1α overexpressing mouse model (MCK‐PGC‐1α) to analyze the metabolite secretion profile of serum and culture medium recovered from MCK‐PGC‐1α muscle fibers by NMR. We revealed modified levels of different metabolites that might be ascribed to the metabolic activation of the skeletal muscle fibers. Notably, the dysregulated levels of these metabolites affected adipocyte differentiation, as well as the browning process in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly such effect was exacerbated in the subcutaneous WAT, while only barely present in the visceral WAT. Our data confirm a prominent role of PGC‐1α as a trigger of mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle and propose a novel function of this master regulator gene in modulating the metabolite production in turn affecting the activation of WAT and its conversion toward the browning.
Risk of Sarcopenia Following Long‐Term Statin Use in Community‐Dwelling Middle‐Aged and Older Adults in Japan
Authors: Huang Shih‐Tsung , Otsuka Rei , Nishita Yukiko , Meng Lin‐Chieh , Hsiao Fei‐Yuan , Shimokata Hiroshi , Chen Liang‐Kung , Arai Hidenori 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundInconsistent results have been reported concerning the association between statin administration and muscle health, specifically its potential to increase the risk of sarcopenia. Given the widespread long‐term use of statins among the elderly population, the exploration of this association remains a crucial yet insufficiently examined matter. This study aimed to assess the association between the prolonged administration of statins and the risk of sarcopenia, diminished muscle strength, reduced skeletal muscle mass and impaired physical performance.MethodsThis population‐based cohort study was conducted in Japan utilizing data derived from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences‐Longitudinal Study of Aging (NILS‐LSA). The study participants, enlisted from the 2nd to the 6th waves (spanning from April 2000 to July 2010) of NILS‐LSA, were those who aged 40 years or older and had initiated statin therapy (n = 348, age: 64.1 years, female: 63.5%). Individuals who were not administered statins (n = 2559, age: 55.5 years, female: 48.4%) were arbitrarily chosen using a combined approach of propensity score (PS) matching and risk set sampling to form the control group (with a 1:4 matching ratio). The primary outcome of this study was the occurrence of sarcopenia, as defined by the 2019 consensus of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS). The secondary outcomes included low muscle mass (< 7.0 kg/m2 for men and below 5.4 kg/m2 for women by DXA), reduced skeletal muscle strength (handgrip strength < 28 kg in men and < 18 kg in women) and subpar physical performance (6‐min walking speed < 1.0 m/s). The relationship between the use of statins and the outcomes was estimated using a Cox proportional hazard model with time‐varying covariates, which included the status of statin use and other variables (two‐tailed p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant). Stratification based on age and sex, along with five sensitivity analyses—including propensity score overlap weighting and a negative control—was conducted.ResultsAfter applying PS matching, we identified 342 statin initiators and 1294 non‐statin users, with well‐balanced baseline characteristics between the groups. The use of statins was not associated with an increased risk of incident sarcopenia (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.43 [95% CI, 0.86, 2.36]), diminished muscle strength (aHR, 1.11 [95% CI, 0.80, 1.54]), reduced muscle mass (aHR, 1.09 [95% CI, 0.66, 1.82]) or impaired physical performance (aHR, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.46, 1.17]). These findings were consistent across age and sex stratifications, as well as all sensitivity analyses.ConclusionsStatin use was not associated with an elevated risk of sarcopenia or impaired muscle health among community‐dwelling middle‐aged and older adults in Japan.
The point of no return? Restrictive changes to lenient return policies and consumer reactions to them
Authors: Abdulla Huseyn , Ketzenberg Michael , Abbey James D. , Heim Gregory R. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractRetailers face a challenging trade‐off in maintaining versus restricting long‐established lenient return policies. On the one hand, lenient return policies have become an important part of retailers' value propositions and play a significant role in stimulating consumer purchases. On the other hand, lenient return policies increase the volume of product returns, which hurts profitability. Motivated by observing an increase in restrictive changes to long‐established lenient return policies, we investigate consumer reactions to such changes and their managerial implications. Through a series of experiments with diverse consumer samples, we find that restrictive changes, such as shortening return time windows or introducing restocking fees, decrease consumer trust in retailers and lead to lowered purchase, positive word‐of‐mouth, and loyalty intentions. We also find that providing managerial transparency, in the form of communicating the rationale for restrictive changes, can attenuate the negative consumer reactions to such changes. Moreover, rationales that emphasize the cost of handling returns versus blaming opportunistic and abusive returners are similarly effective. Our findings contribute to the growing academic literature on consumer return policy design and provide actionable insights to retail managers.
Stasis dermatitis and pigmented purpuric dermatoses: Histological characterization and review of literature
Authors: Hoffet M. S. , Perruchoud D. L. , Gadaldi K. , Heidemeyer K. , Bossart S. , Borradori L. , Ramelet A. A. , Feldmeyer L. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackgroundStasis dermatitis and pigmented purpuric dermatoses can both manifest as hyperpigmentation, petechiae and/or purpura on the lower extremities, posing a challenge for macroscopic differentiation. We investigated the histological differences in these two conditions.ObjectivesTo determine the histological characteristics of stasis dermatitis and pigmented purpuric dermatosis.MethodsSkin biopsy specimens were obtained from seven patients with stasis dermatitis, 15 with pigmented purpuric dermatosis, and three control patients. The samples were analysed for histological changes (hematoxylin‐eosin), melanin (silver nitrate), iron, elastic stain, and with an immunohistochemistry for melanocytes (Melan‐A).ResultsThe predominant histological features of stasis dermatitis were hemosiderin deposits, eosinophils and telangiectasias. Pigmented purpuric dermatosis was characterized by extensive erythrocyte extravasation, interface changes and spongiosis.ConclusionsThe distinct histological characteristics of stasis dermatitis and pigmented purpuric dermatosis can improve the diagnostic classification of these entities.
Organic alkalinity distributions, characteristics, and application to carbonate system calculations in estuarine and coastal systems
Authors: Hunt Christopher W. , Salisbury Joseph E. , Liu Xuewu , Byrne Robert H. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe capacity of aquatic systems to buffer acidification depends on the sum contributions of various chemical species to total alkalinity (TA). Major TA contributors are inorganic, with carbonate and bicarbonate considered the most important. However, growing evidence shows that many rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters contain dissolved organic molecules with charge sites that create organic alkalinity (OrgAlk). This study describes the first comparison of (1) OrgAlk distributions and (2) acid–base properties in contrasting estuary‐plume systems: the Pleasant (Maine, USA) and the St. John (New Brunswick, CA). The substantial concentrations of OrgAlk in each estuary were sometimes not conservative with salinity and typically associated with very low pH. Two approaches to OrgAlk measurement showed consistent differences, indicating acid–base characteristics inconsistent with the TA definition. The OrgAlk fraction of TA ranged from 78% at low salinity to less than 0.4% in the coastal ocean endmember. Modeling of titration data identified three groups of organic charge sites, with mean acid–base dissociation constants (pKa) of 4.2 (± 0.5), 5.9 (± 0.7) and 8.5 (± 0.2). These represented 21% (± 9%), 8% (± 5%), and 71% (± 11%) of titrated organic charge groups. Including OrgAlk, pKa, and titrated organic charge groups in carbonate system calculations improved estimates of pH. However, low and medium salinity, organic‐rich samples demonstrated persistent offsets in calculated pH, even using dissolved inorganic carbon and CO2 partial pressure as inputs. These offsets show the ongoing challenge of carbonate system intercomparisons in organic rich systems whereby new techniques and further investigations are needed to fully account for OrgAlk in TA titrations.
Screening of Inherited Retinal Disease Patients in a Low‐Resource Setting Using an Augmented Next‐Generation Sequencing Panel
Authors: Midgley Nicole , Rebello George , Holtes Lara K. , Ramesar Raj , Roberts Lisa 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundInherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders affecting millions worldwide. Despite the widespread adoption of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) panels, there remains a critical gap in the genetically diverse and understudied African populations.MethodsOne hundred and thirty‐five South African patients affected by various IRDs underwent NGS using a custom‐targeted panel sequencing over 100 known genes. The panel was supplemented by in silico screening for a MAK‐Alu insertion and screening of seven functionally established deep intronic variants.ResultsThrough our combined screening strategy, we obtained a probable genetic diagnosis for 56% of the cohort. We identified 83 unique variants in 29 IRD genes underlying the disease, including 16 putative novel variants. Molecular findings prompted recommendations for clinical re‐examination in ten patients. Resolution rates varied across clinical classifications and population groups.ConclusionsThis study reports the first use of a targeted NGS panel for IRDs in southern Africa, demonstrating a cost‐effective, customisable approach that optimises both diagnostic yield and resource efficiency, making it a valuable tool for IRD molecular characterisation in resource‐limited settings. Augmenting the panel by screening for variants relevant to South African patients allowed us to achieve a resolution rate in line with international studies. Our study underscores the importance of investigating diverse populations to bridge disparities in genomic research and improve diagnostic outcomes for underrepresented population groups.