bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Rosmanol Effectively Prevents Diethylnitrosamine-induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Rats by Regulating the PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Cao Wei , Liu Qi , Wang Ying , Chen Lianfeng 
Published: December 2024

Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third principal reason for tumor-linked fatalities globally. There is no effective cure for HCC due to rapid progression and poor prognosis. Rosmanol (RM) is a phenolic diterpene antioxidant that exhibits anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Purpose This research aims to examine the chemopreventive efficacy of RM on the PI3K/Akt pathway as a potential mechanism for its protective effect against N-diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced HCC. Materials and Methods Wistar albino male rats were separated into four sets: normal control (NC); DEN-induced HCC model; DEN+RM (40 mg/kg bw); and RM (40 mg/kg bw) alone. To evaluate the chemopreventive mechanism, we assessed the change in body weight, liver weight, hepatotoxicity markers, antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation, proliferation proteins, cytokines, histopathology, and western blot. Results and Conclusion Our data revealed that RM could reduce the loss of body weight, liver weight, toxicity enzymes, oxidative stress, inflammation, and restructuring of the hepatocellular architecture against DEN-stimulated HCC rats. RM-alone treated rats exhibited comparable activity with NC. Furthermore, RM attenuates PCNA and cyclin-D1 protein expression by the regulation of the PI3K/Akt pathway. The possible chemopreventive activities of RM may be owing to its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative effects. Thus, RM may aid as an innovative remedial agent for HCC treatment.
Tele-neuropsychological multidomain assessment in Italian people with cognitive disorders: Reliability and user satisfaction
Authors: Bressan Miriana Maria , Musso Anna Maria , Bovi Tommaso , Bonetti Bruno , Zucchella Chiara 
Published: December 2024

Background Tele-neuropsychology has already been employed in neurocognitive disorders, however, in Italy, the evidence of its psychometric quality and satisfaction is still limited. Objective This study aimed to: (1) evaluate the reliability of a standardized battery of neuropsychological screening and domain-specific tests delivered at home via videoconference to a sample of Italian people with cognitive disorders, compared with traditional face-to-face administration; (2) assess the feasibility and satisfaction about remote administration. Methods This crossover study enrolled patients with subjective cognitive disorder, mild neurocognitive disorder, or dementia. All participants performed a brief neuropsychological screening assessment in face-to-face or remote mode. People with milder cognitive disorders (Mini-Mental State Examination ≥ 20) also performed an extended neuropsychological battery. After 15 days, each participant repeated the same assessment in the opposite mode. Finally, participants completed a satisfaction questionnaire. Results 114 participants were initially enrolled in the study and 100 individuals performed both face-to-face and remote assessments (14 dropouts). All neuropsychological tests showed agreement between the two modes of administration, except for the Digit Span Forward ( p = 0.009) and oral-Symbol Digit Modalities Test ( p < 0.001). According to Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (LCCCs), tests also showed good or excellent reliability (LCCCs between 0.609 and 0.964); only the Digit Span Backward and the Stroop test showed moderate reliability (LCCCs =0.514–0.441, respectively). Among 100 participants, 65 patients answered the satisfaction questionnaire, declaring high satisfaction for the remote evaluation. Conclusions Tele-neuropsychology seems to work with in-home assessments among Italian patients with cognitive disorders and seems to be acceptable to them. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: NCT06078332 (October 17, 2023).
Mortality trends and disparities in adults with Huntington's disease in the United States
Authors: Saeed Humza , Abdullah  , Hameed Hira , Maaz Hafiz Mohammad , Wasay Abdul , Amin Zubair , Arshad Muhammad Khubaib , Jain Hritvik , Goyal Aman 
Published: December 2024

Background Huntington's disease (HD), an autosomal dominant disorder, is characterized by progressive neurodegeneration, psychiatric issues, dementia, and worsening chorea over time. Its prevalence varies by ethnicity and region. Objective This study aims to analyze mortality trends and disparities in adults with HD in the United States (US). Methods This study analyzed death certificates from 1999 to 2020 for deaths due to HD (ICD-10 code G10) in individuals aged 25 and older. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) and annual percent change (APC) were calculated by year, gender, age groups, race/ethnicity, geographics and urbanization status. Results Between 1999 and 2020, there were 24,121 reported deaths among patients with HD. During this period, the AAMR increased from 4.3 to 6.0 per 1,000,000 population, with a notable surge from 2018 to 2020 (APC: 9.88; 95% CI: 5.45 to 13.20). Older adults exhibited the highest AAMRs at 10.4 per 1,000,000 when analyzed by age-group. Men and women had comparable AAMRs (5.2 vs. 5.0). By race, non-Hispanic (NH) Whites had the highest AAMRs (6.0), followed by NH African Americans (3.3) and Hispanics (2.8). Additionally, non-metropolitan areas experienced higher AAMRs compared to metropolitan areas (6.6 vs. 4.8). Conclusions Since 1999, mortality from HD has increased, particularly from 2018 to 2020, with higher rates in older adults, men, NH Whites, and non-metropolitan areas. Further research is essential to consolidate data, standardize reporting practices, and address disparities to improve outcomes.
Huntington's disease at work: The effect of profession-specific requirements as related to clinical characteristics on work outcome
Authors: van der Zwaan Kasper F. , Jacobs Milou , Roos Raymund A.C. , de Bot Susanne T. 
Published: December 2024

Background In most Huntington's disease expanded gene carriers (HDEGC), losing work capacity is the first sign of functional decline. Cognitive deterioration, motor dysfunction, and psychiatric disturbances are associated with or predict work outcomes in HD. The role of profession-specific requirements, however, has not been investigated. Objective This study examines the relationship between work outcomes, clinical characteristics, burnout, and profession-specific requirements in HDEGC. We hypothesize that burnout-like symptoms are associated with mild apathy and that profession-specific requirements influence clinical characteristics affecting work capacity in HD. Methods A cohort of 117 HDEGC (CAG repeat ≥36) participated in the “HD-work” study at Leiden University Medical Center. Participants were 18–67 years old, either, worked at baseline, or had lost their job within two years. The Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Scale assessed motor abilities, global functioning, and cognition. The HD-work questionnaire and the ‘Utrecht Burn Out Scale’ assessed work problems and burnout. Statistical methods included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, Cronbachs alpha, t-tests, and logistic regressions. Results Burnout-like symptoms did not differ between those with full and reduced working capacity and were not more prevalent in HD than in the general Dutch population. No significant effect was found between work outcomes and profession-specific requirements, even when adjusted for clinical characteristics. Conclusions Our study suggests that profession-specific requirements do not significantly impact work ability among individuals with HD in early phases of HD. Workplace adjustments should be tailored to individual preferences rather than profession-specific demands. Burnout-like symptoms did not affect work capacity or relate to apathy.
Defining the Thyroid-RLN Entry Triangle for Enhanced Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Exposure in TOETVA: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhou Shiwei , Li Hui , Wu Peng , Li Wu , Wang Zhiyuan , Zhang Lu , Li Jigang , Peng Xiaowei 
Published: December 2024

Background Injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) and parathyroid glands (PGs) are the most common and serious complications during the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA), and their exposure and protection are the most important factors affecting the operation time. Here, we report a novel anatomical landmark and surgical method to shorten the operative time and reduce the chance of injury to the RLN and PGs. Methods According to the different exposure methods of the RLN, patients were divided into the experimental group (from top to bottom, E-group) and the comparison group (from outside to inside, C-group), and 1:1 propensity score-matching (PSM) was performed. The demographics, operative data, postoperative data, and postoperative complications were analyzed by comparing the 2 groups. Results After PSM, a total of 206 patients were included. Except for tumor size, there were no significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of sex, age, body mass index, presence of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, or extent of surgery. Compared with the C-group, the operative time, in minutes, of the E-group was significantly shorter (hemithyroidectomy with central neck dissection (CND), C = 111.81 ± 25.83 vs E = 100.52 ± 16.47, P = .002 and bilateral thyroidectomy with CND, C = 177.87 ± 36.61 vs E = 156.05 ± 25.60, P = .004), the exposure time, in minutes, of the RLN was reduced (hemithyroidectomy with CND, C = 23.31 ± 7.07 vs E = 11.41 ± 2.75, P < .001 and bilateral thyroidectomy with CND, C = 45.64 ± 14.84 vs E = 21.76 ± 5.57, P < .001). The rate of postoperative temporary PGs and RLN injuries were also reduced (transient hypoparathyroidism, C = 13% vs E = 4%, P = .023 and transient RLN palsy, C = 10% vs E = 2%, P = .017). In addition, the remaining parameters such as the amount of bleeding, number of lymph node metastases, postoperative hospital stay, visual analog scale pain score, recurrence rate, and other complication rates were not significantly different between the 2 groups. Conclusion It is safe and feasible to construct Thyroid-RLN Entry Triangle (Peng’s Triangle) for PGs and RLN protection in TOETVA. It is beneficial to shorten the operation time and reduce postoperative complications, both worthy of clinical promotion. Trial Registration This study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (UIN: ChiCTR2300067673, https://www.chictr.org.cn ) in accordance with the World Medical Association’s Declaration of Helsinki, 2013.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Ankle Osteoarthritis in Achondroplasia: A Retrospective Radiographic Assessment of 134 Patients
Authors: Choi Won Seok , Shin Jung Woo , Son Sei Wook , Kim Hak Jun , Hwang Sang Hyeon , Park Sang Geon , Park Young Hwan 
Published: December 2024

Objective The primary aim of this study is to examine the prevalence of ankle osteoarthritis in patients with achondroplasia and to assess the impact of surgical correction of lower limb alignment on this prevalence. The secondary aim is to identify radiographic parameters associated with ankle osteoarthritis. Design This retrospective cohort study included 134 patients (268 ankles) who visited our institution between March 2014 and February 2023. Lower limb alignment was assessed using the mechanical axis deviation, lateral distal tibial angle, anterior distal tibial angle, and talar tilt angle. Ankle osteoarthritis was evaluated using the Van Dijk Osteoarthritis score and modified Kellgren–Lawrence (K-L) scale by 2 experienced orthopedic surgeons. Results The prevalence of ankle osteoarthritis in our study cohort was 29%, and that of advanced ankle osteoarthritis defined by Van Dijk Osteoarthritis scale III or modified K-L grade 4 was 0.8% (aged <40 years, 22%, and 0%; aged ≥40 years, 42% and 2%, respectively). Talar tilt angle was the only radiographic parameter that showed a significant correlation with the degree of ankle osteoarthritis (Van Dijk Osteoarthritis score, rs = 0.403, P < 0.001; modified K-L grade, rs = 0.385, P < 0.001). Discussion The prevalence of ankle osteoarthritis in achondroplasia is moderate, but the progression to advanced stages is uncommon. Ankle osteoarthritis in achondroplasia is strongly associated with increased talar tilt angle. This finding emphasizes caution regarding ankle osteoarthritis in achondroplasia with a nonparallel tibiotalar articular surface. Clinicians should, therefore, consider regularly assessing the talar tilt angle in patients with achondroplasia.
The role of digital storytelling and narrative reflective reports in developing the skills of foreign language teachers
Authors: Pentina Yevgeniya , Kuznetsova Tamara 
Published: December 2024

The article describes an action research study that uses narrative reflective reports and digital storytelling as tools to enhance the narrative competency of aspiring foreign language instructors. The main purpose was to test different approaches for developing the narrative competency of foreign language instructors in context-based instruction. The study involved 68 students of pedagogical faculty of foreign languages. Through systematic reflection and analysis, students can develop reflexive and critical awareness. Regarding the creation of reflective reports, the authors revealed that future foreign language teachers are encouraged to examine their story-making processes productively, to create fresh accounts from different perspectives. The findings demonstrate how students' personal narratives guide classroom activities throughout the teaching process. Creating narratives, students are cognitively involved; they pay attention to the crucial results, developing narrative competence. The information provided in the study will be useful for foreign language teachers, linguists, university professors, students majoring in linguistics.
Healthcare professionals’ experiences of the change to telephone consultations in cancer care during the COVID-19 pandemic: An explorative qualitative study
Authors: Lindblad Katrine Vammen , Bødtcher Hanne , Sørensen Dina Melanie , Rosted Elizabeth , Kjeldsted Eva , Christensen Helle Gert , Svendsen Mads Nordahl , Thomsen Linda Aagaard , Dalton Susanne Oksbjerg 
Published: December 2024

Objective During the COVID-19 pandemic, changes were made in cancer care including increased use of teleconsultations (TCs) and restrictions for relatives to attend in-person appointments at the outpatient clinics. This study aimed to provide in-depth information on healthcare professionals’ experiences of TC and the limited access for relatives during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Methods This qualitative study was conducted at an oncological department responsible for oncological care of all patients with cancer in one of five health regions in Denmark. Fourteen healthcare professionals participated in three semi-structured focus group interviews with either secretaries and nurses or physicians, and one semi-structured individual interview with a secretary. Data were analyzed by thematic analysis. Results Four overall themes emerged in the thematic analysis: “Possibilities and limitations in relation to TC,” “Information load and timing,” “Insecurity” and “Lessons learned for the future.” Healthcare professionals missed face-to-face interactions, feared to overlook patients’ symptoms and relapse during TC, agreed that TC were not suitable for all types of consultations, and experienced improved work environment due to fewer patients and relatives at the department. Furthermore, patients should be involved in the decision of changing to TC, relatives must be recommended to participate in TC, physicians must meet the patient in-person before TC, and video consultations should be considered. Conclusion TC may be a valuable supplement to in-person consultations for patients with cancer in the future, and guidelines must be implemented to ensure suitable consultation types for TC, include patients’ preferences, and involve relatives.
Comparative efficacy of risdiplam and nusinersen in Type 2 and 3 spinal muscular atrophy patients: A cohort study using real-world data
Authors: Ashrafi Mahmoud Reza , Babaee Marzieh , Hashemi Nazari Seyed Saeed , Barzegar Mohammad , Ghazavi Mohammadreza , Beiraghi Toosi Mehran , Nafissi Shahriar , Inaloo Soroor , Zamani Ghaletaki Gholamreza , Fatehi Farzad , Heshmat Ramin , Ghahvechi Akbari Masood , Abdi Alireza , Bakhtiary Hassan , Montazerlotfelahi Hadi , Abbaskhanian Ali , Hosseini Seyed Ahmad , Farshadmoghadam Hossein , Hosseiny Seyyed Mohammad Mahdi , Shariatmadari Fakhreddin , Ziaadini Bentolhoda , Babaei Meisam , Tavasoli Azita , Nikbakht Sedighe , Momen Aliakbar , Khajeh Ali , Aminzadeh Vahid , Mollamohammadi Mohsen , Taghdiri Mohammad Mehdi , Nasehi Mohammad Mehdi , Memarian Sara , Badv Reza Shervin , Heidari Morteza , Jafari Narjes 
Published: December 2024

Background Three medications have been approved for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) treatment. No head-to-head clinical trials have directly compared the efficacy of nusinersen and risdiplam. We compare the efficacy of them in Type 2 and 3 SMA patients, with 6 months of follow-up. Methods A multicenter cohort study was conducted. Demographic, genetic and clinical findings containing Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded (HFMSE) and revised upper limb module (RULM) scales were gathered. An increase of at least 3 points in HFMSE and RULM scores was considered a positive response. Results 73 (58.4%) children received risdiplam, and 52 (41.6%) received nusinersen non-randomly, based on clinical decision. The difference in HFMSE and RULM scores compared to the baseline was significant in both groups (P-value <0.001). However, there was no significant difference between mean difference changes in HFMSE and RULM scores between the two groups. 80.4% of patients in the risdiplam group and 72% in the nusinersen group achieved the 3-point cutoff after 6 months, and there is no significant difference between the two groups (P-Value:0.33). Conclusions This study showed that both medications significantly changed the HFSME and RULM after 3 and 6 months of follow-up. However, there was no significant difference between the two drugs according to the HFSME.
Taking ACTION to detect myocarditis related to recombinant gene transfer therapy for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy; Consensus recommendations for cardiac surveillance
Authors: Kaufman Beth D. , Veerapandiyan Aravindhan , Soslow Jonathan H , Wittlieb-Weber Carol , Esteso Paul , Olson Aaron K. , Shih Renata , Bansal Neha , Lal Ashwin , Gambetta Katheryn , Hsu Daphne , Cripe Linda , Villa Chet , Nandi Deipanjan 
Published: December 2024

Background: A viral vector recombinant gene transfer therapy (GTT) has recently been approved by the FDA for males of all ages with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) without limitations regarding preexisting cardiac impairment. Acute myocarditis is a potential life-threatening short-term complication that has been reported following GTT. This immune mediated response can range from troponin elevation to rapid cardiovascular compromise and death, particularly in those with abnormal cardiac status at baseline. Early detection of cardiac compromise is essential to optimize outcomes. Objectives: The primary objective of this consensus statement is to advocate for caution with DMD GTT patient selection and to initiate preemptive monitoring for those who may be at increased risk for cardiac adverse events. Secondary objective is to deepen our understanding of short and long-term impact of DMD gene therapies on the heart. Methods: A national learning network of pediatric cardiologists with expertise in DMD developed recommendations for cardiac surveillance of DMD males receiving GTT based on available evidence and expert consensus opinion. A monitoring and treatment plan for standard and high cardiac risk patients was developed. Conclusion: Partnership of cardiologists with GTT prescribers is essential to identify patient-specific considerations that might influence risk for adverse cardiac events and alter post infusion monitoring and management plans. Consistency in cardiac surveillance practices across centers will expedite our knowledge regarding potential short- and long-term cardiac effects of GTT for DMD.
Systemic induction therapy in patients with locally advanced or node-positive urothelial carcinoma: Evaluating treatment outcomes
Authors: Rutten Vera C , Mellema Jan-Jaap , Zuiverloon Tahlita CM , Robbrecht Debbie GJ , van der Heijden Michiel S , Boormans Joost L 
Published: December 2024

Background The presence of lymph node metastases in patients with urothelial carcinoma (UC) plays a pivotal role in disease management and prognosis. Patients with locally advanced irresectable or clinically node-positive UC are often considered ineligible for surgery due to the extent of affected lymph nodes. Long term remission or even cure may be achieved in a subset of patients who experience response to systemic induction therapy and consolidative locoregional treatment. Objective To assess the pathological response to preoperative systemic induction therapy followed by radical surgery in patients with locally advanced irresectable or clinically node-positive UC. Methods Searches were performed until September 2023 in 5 databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, Web-of-Science, Cochrane and Pubmed Publisher). Studies including patients with cT4bNxM0/cTxN1-3M0 UC, treated with induction chemotherapy or non-chemo induction therapy followed by radical surgery, were selected. The primary outcome was the pathological complete response (pCR) rate, i.e., the proportion of patients without residual disease in the surgical resection specimen (ypT0N0). Secondary outcomes included overall and cancer-specific survival (OS, CSS). Results Fourteen studies were included, representing 5715 patients. Two studies reported on non-chemo induction therapy. The reported pCR rate in patients receiving induction chemotherapy varied from 9% to 27% compared to 25% after induction immunotherapy. The 5-year OS and CSS after induction chemotherapy and radical surgery ranged from 25 to 34% and 30 to 49%. Conclusion Systemic induction therapy in patients with locally advanced irresectable or clinically node-positive UC resulted in modest pCR rates. Due to considerable heterogeneity between studies, no direct comparison on the efficacy of induction therapy regimens was possible.