bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Early Recurrence in Glioblastoma Patients: A Glance Towards Precision Medicine
Authors: Della Pepa Giuseppe Maria , Caccavella Valerio Maria , Menna Grazia , Ius Tamara , Auricchio Anna Maria , Sabatino Giovanni , La Rocca Giuseppe , Chiesa Silvia , Gaudino Simona , Marchese Enrico , Olivi Alessandro 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Ability to thrive and time-to-recurrence following treatment are important parameters to assess in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), given its dismal prognosis. Though there is an ongoing debate whether it can be considered an appropriate surrogate endpoint for overall survival in clinical trials, progression-free survival (PFS) is routinely used for clinical decision-making.

OBJECTIVE
To investigate whether machine learning (ML)-based models can reliably stratify newly diagnosed GBM patients into prognostic subclasses on PFS basis, identifying those at higher risk for an early recurrence (≤6 mo).

METHODS
Data were extracted from a multicentric database, according to the following eligibility criteria: histopathologically verified GBM and follow-up >12 mo: 474 patients met our inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Relevant demographic, clinical, molecular, and radiological variables were selected by a feature selection algorithm (Boruta) and used to build a ML-based model.

RESULTS
Random forest prediction model, evaluated on an 80:20 split ratio, achieved an AUC of 0.81 (95% CI: 0.77; 0.83) demonstrating high discriminative ability. Optimizing the predictive value derived from the linear and nonlinear combinations of the selected input features, our model outperformed across all performance metrics multivariable logistic regression.

CONCLUSION
A robust ML-based prediction model that identifies patients at high risk for early recurrence was successfully trained and internally validated. Considerable effort remains to integrate these predictions in a patient-centered care context.
Spinal Arachnoid Webs: Presentation, Natural History, and Outcomes in 38 Patients
Authors: Laxpati Nealen , Malcolm James G , Tsemo Georges Bouobda , Mustroph Christian , Saindane Amit M , Ahmad Faiz , Refai Daniel , Gary Matthew F 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Spinal arachnoid webs are rarely described bands of thickened arachnoid tissue in the dorsal thoracic spine. Much is unknown regarding their origins, risk factors, natural history, and outcomes.

OBJECTIVE
To present the single largest case series, detailing presenting symptoms and outcomes amongst operative and nonoperative patients, to better understand the role of intervention.

METHODS
This retrospective chart review identified 38 patients with arachnoid webs. Patient demographics, radiologic signs, symptoms, and surgical history data were extracted from the electronic medical record. Symptoms were divided by location and character. 28 patients were successfully contacted for follow up outcome surveys.

RESULTS
26 patients (68%) underwent surgical intervention, 12 (32%) were managed non-operatively. 15 (39%) patients had undergone a previous unsuccessful surgery at a different site for their symptoms prior to arachnoid web diagnosis. Commonly presenting symptoms included myelopathy (68%), focal thoracic back pain (68%), lower extremity weakness (45%), numbness and sensory changes (58%), and lower extremity radicular pain (42%), upper extremity weakness (24%), and radicular pain (37%). Focal thoracic pain was associated with thoracic level (P < .02). Myelopathic symptoms were less common in postoperative patients. Postoperative patients described significantly more upper extremity (P < .01) and thoracic (P < .01) numbness and paresthesias. Surveyed nonoperative patients universally described their symptoms as either stable or worsening.

CONCLUSION
Spinal arachnoid webs present with thoracic myelopathy and back pain but can also present with upper extremity symptoms. Surgical intervention stabilizes or improves symptoms and is well received. Nonoperative patients do not spontaneously improve.
Risk Factors for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection and Presence of Anti–SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies Among University Student Dormitory Residents, September–November 2020
Authors: Segaloff Hannah E , Cole Devlin , Rosenblum Hannah G , Lee Christine C , Morgan Clint N , Remington Patrick , Pitts Collin , Kelly Patrick , Baggott Jake , Bateman Allen , Somers Tarah , Ruff Jeanne , Payne David , Desamu-Thorpe Rodel , Foster Monique A , Currie Dustin W , Abedi Glen R , Westergaard Ryan , Hsu Christopher H , Tate Jaqueline E , Kirking Hannah L 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Background
Multiple severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreaks occurred at universities during Fall 2020, but little is known about risk factors for campus-associated infections or immunity provided by anti–SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in young adults.

Methods
We conducted surveys and serology tests among students living in dormitories in September and November to examine infection risk factors and antibody presence. Using campus weekly reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test results, the relationship between survey responses, SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, and infections was assessed.

Results
Of 6136 students, 1197 completed the survey and 572 also completed serologic testing in September compared with 517 and 414 in November, respectively. Participation in fraternity or sorority events (adjusted risk ratio [aRR], 1.9 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.4–2.5]) and frequent alcohol consumption (aRR, 1.6 [95% CI, 1.2–2.2]) were associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Mask wearing during social events (aRR, 0.6 [95% CI, .6–1.0]) was associated with decreased risk. None of the 20 students with antibodies in September tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 during the semester, while 27.8% of students who tested RT-PCR positive tested negative for antibodies in November.

Conclusions
Frequent drinking and attending social events were associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Antibody presence in September appeared to be protective from reinfection, but this finding was not statistically significant.
The “Three on a Stick” Incision—A Curvilinear Solution for the Occipital and Suboccipital Region
Authors: Kershenovich Amir 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Different conditions of the posterior fossa such as Chiari malformations, tumors, and arachnoid cysts require surgery through a suboccipital approach, for which a typical midline vertical linear incision is used. Curvilinear incisions have been carried in all other scalp regions other than the sub region for better cosmetic outcomes; a vertical curvilinear incision in the occipital and suboccipital region has not been reported.

OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the cosmetic value and safety of the “3 on a stick” vertical suboccipital curvilinear incision.

METHODS
We compared curvilinear to linear incisions, considering the scar's width, color, how conspicuous, and how well the scar could be covered by hair naturally.

RESULTS
Between 2010 and 2016, 68 children with Chiari I malformation were surgically intervened. The curvilinear incision was performed in 56 (82.4%) while a linear incision in 12 (17.6%) children. There were only 2 (2.9%) wound related complications (superficial dehiscences) in the curvilinear group and 1 additional dehiscence in a linear incision case. There were no neural or vascular complications. Scars were very similar among the 2 groups; both were equally conspicuous but curvilinear ones seemed to get covered better by hair.

CONCLUSION
The “3 on a stick” curvilinear incision of the suboccipital region is safe and allows for better hair coverage of the scar. It can be used for multiple conditions requiring a midline suboccipital or even occipital approach, such as Chiari malformations, tumors, and cysts.
Technique to “Trap” a Segment of the Middle Meningeal Artery for Embolization of a Carotid Cavernous Fistula: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Khorasanizadeh MirHojjat , Salih Mira , Harris Dominic , Ogilvy Christopher S 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Transvenous embolization is the favored treatment for indirect carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs). However, transarterial embolization can be used as an alternative method when the venous route is inaccessible. We present the case of a 47-yr-old woman with a history of diplopia, headaches, and sixth cranial nerve (CN-VI) palsy who presented with acute worsening of headache and ophthalmoplegia and rise of intraocular pressures. Angiography demonstrated a left indirect CCF (dural arteriovenous malformation) with multiple arterial feeders from the internal carotid artery as well as the middle meningeal artery (MMA) (Barrow type D). Transvenous approach was attempted first but was unsuccessful due to difficult access to the cavernous sinus. Thus, transarterial embolization through the MMA feeding branches was planned. To avoid occluding distal branches of the MMA by Onyx, we coiled it distally. In addition, we used a scepter balloon proximally to prevent the reflux of Onyx into potential collaterals to cranial nerves from proximal MMA. After trapping a segment of the MMA, Onyx was injected into the CCF fistula through the small MMA feeders. A postembolization arteriogram showed obliteration of the CCF. The patient developed mild left facial nerve paresis on the first postoperative day (thought to be related to partial embolization of tiny arteries in the facial canal), which was resolving in the course of hospitalization. She remained neurologically stable, and was discharged on the third postoperative day. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of transarterial embolization of CCF by distal coiling and proximal ballooning to trap a segment of an artery. The authors hereby confirm that informed consent was obtained from the patient after thorough discussion of the procedure's rationale, risks, benefits, and alternatives.
Pole position: How plant cells polarize along the axes
Authors: Ramalho João Jacob , Jones Victor Arnold Shivas , Mutte Sumanth , Weijers Dolf 
Published: July 2021

AbstractHaving a sense of direction is a fundamental cellular trait that can determine cell shape, division orientation, or function, and ultimately the formation of a functional, multicellular body. Cells acquire and integrate directional information by establishing discrete subcellular domains along an axis with distinct molecular profiles, a process known as cell polarization. Insight into the principles and mechanisms underlying cell polarity has been propelled by decades of extensive research mostly in yeast and animal models. Our understanding of cell polarity establishment in plants, which lack most of the regulatory molecules identified in other eukaryotes, is more limited, but significant progress has been made in recent years. In this review, we explore how plant cells coordinately establish stable polarity axes aligned with the organ axes, highlighting similarities in the molecular logic used to polarize both plant and animal cells. We propose a classification system for plant cell polarity events and nomenclature guidelines. Finally, we provide a deep phylogenetic analysis of polar proteins and discuss the evolution of polarity machineries in plants.
Changes in Job Quality as People Work Beyond Pensionable Age in Sweden
Authors: Sacco Lawrence B , Cahill Kevin E , Westerlund Hugo , Platts Loretta G 
Published: July 2021

AbstractLarge numbers of people remain in paid work after pensionable age, often in bridge jobs or with reduced working hours. Remarkably, knowledge about the quality of these jobs relative to those taken prior to pension eligibility is very limited. In this paper, we examined changes in job quality among workers in their sixties in the context of contemporaneous changes in work intensity and employment characteristics. This study is based on data from the biennial Swedish Longitudinal Occupational Survey of Health (SLOSH, 2006–2018, n = 1890–3013). Job quality outcomes were physical (dangerous, strenuous or unpleasant work) and psychosocial (job strain, effort-reward imbalance, work time control) working conditions and job satisfaction. First difference estimation was used to observe within-individual wave-to-wave changes in job quality over ages 61/62–69/70. Changes in working hours, employment characteristics (shifting to a non-permanent contract, the private sector and self-employment) and health were included as covariates. The typical individual who worked beyond pensionable age experienced statistically significant improvements in job quality. Improvements in psychosocial working conditions and job satisfaction were larger for those who reduced working hours and shifted from permanent to non-permanent contracts, from the public into the private sector and from wage-and-salary to self-employment. Work beyond pensionable age is a distinctive period, characterized by employment that becomes more flexible and rewarding and less stressful. These improvements are a function of older individuals’ preferences and ability to work fewer hours and transition to new lines of work.
The Association Between the Nordic-Style Diet Score and Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity in Tehranian Adults
Authors: Noruzi Zahra , Jayedi Ahmad , Farazi Mena , Moosavi Hanieh , Janbozorgi Nasim , Djafarian Kurosh , Shab-Bidar Sakineh 
Published: July 2021

Objective
We aimed to assess the association of the Nordic-style diet score with general and abdominal obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in a population-based cross-sectional study of Iranian adults.

Methods
We recruited 843 participants with an age range of 18 to 65 years (mean [SD] age, 44.8 [10.7] years). Dietary intake was assessed by a 168-item semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. The Nordic-style diet score was calculated by using the median intake of 6 food groups including rye and whole grains, oatmeal, cabbage and vegetables, apples and pears, root vegetables, and fish. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI of obesity and MetS across tertiles of the Nordic diet score were calculated by logistic regression analysis with adjustment for age, sex, energy intake, physical activity, smoking status, education, and marital status.

Results
A higher score of adherence to the Nordic-style diet score was not associated with general and central adiposity and MetS. With regard to components of the MetS, those in the second tertile of the Nordic-style diet score were at a lower risk of increased serum cholesterol concentration (OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.43–0.86; P = .006), and high systolic (OR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.42–1.00; P = .05) and diastolic (OR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.46–1.06; P = .09) blood pressure. There was no association between the Nordic-style diet score and other components of the MetS.

Conclusion
This study showed that there was no significant relationship between Nordic-style diet score and abdominal and general obesity and MetS. Adopting a Nordic-style diet may be associated with lower serum cholesterol concentration and blood pressure.
Multi-omics insights into the biological mechanisms underlying gene-by-lifestyle interactions with smoking and alcohol consumption detected by genome-wide trans-ancestry meta-analysis
Authors: Majarian Timothy D. , Bentley Amy R. , Laville Vincent , Brown Michael R. , Chasman Daniel I. , Cupples L. Adrienne , de Vries Paul S. , Feitosa Mary F. , Franceschini Nora , Gauderman W. James , Levy Daniel , Morrison Alanna C. , Province Michael , Rao Dabeeru C. , Schwander Karen , Sung Yun Ju , Rotimi Charles N. , Aschard Hugues , Gu C. Charles , Manning Alisa K. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractGene-lifestyle interaction analyses have identified genetic variants whose effect on cardiovascular risk-raising traits is modified by alcohol consumption and smoking behavior. The biological mechanisms of these interactions remain largely unknown, but may involve epigenetic modification linked to perturbation of gene expression. Diverse, individual-level datasets including genotypes, methylation and gene expression conditional on lifestyle factors, are ideally suited to study this hypothesis, yet are often unavailable for large numbers of individuals. Summary-level data, such as effect sizes of genetic variants on a phenotype, present an opportunity for multi-omic study of the biological mechanisms underlying gene-lifestyle interactions. We propose a method that unifies disparate, publicly available summary datasets to build mechanistic hypotheses in models of smoking behavior and alcohol consumption with blood lipid levels and blood pressure measures. Of 897 observed genetic interactions, discovered through genome-wide analysis in diverse multi-ethnic cohorts, 48 were identified with lifestyle-related differentially methylated sites within close proximity and linked to target genes. Smoking behavior and blood lipids account for 37 and 28 of these signals respectively. Five genes also showed differential expression conditional on lifestyle factors within these loci with mechanisms supported in the literature. Our analysis demonstrates the utility of summary data in characterizing observed gene-lifestyle interactions and prioritizes genetic loci for experimental follow up related to blood lipids, blood pressure, and cigarette smoking. We show concordance between multiple trait-or exposure-related associations from diverse assays, driving hypothesis generation for better understanding gene-lifestyle interactions.
A recessive PRDM13 mutation results in congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and cerebellar hypoplasia
Authors: Whittaker Danielle E. , Oleari Roberto , Gregory Louise C. , Le Quesne-Stabej Polona , Williams Hywel J. ,   GOSgene, Torpiano John G. , Formosa Nancy , Cachia Mario J. , Field Daniel , Lettieri Antonella , Ocaka Louise , Paganoni Alyssa J.J. , Rajabali Sakina , Riegman Kimberley L. , De Martini Lisa Benedetta , Chaya Taro , Robinson Iain C.A.F. , Furukawa Takahisa , Cariboni Anna , Basson M. Albert , Dattani Mehul T. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractPRDM13 (PR Domain containing 13) is a putative chromatin modifier and transcriptional regulator that functions downstream of the transcription factor PTF1A, which in turn controls GABAergic fate in the spinal cord and neuronal development in the hypothalamus. Here, we report a novel, recessive syndrome associated with PRDM13 mutation. Patients exhibited intellectual disability, ataxia with cerebellar hypoplasia, scoliosis and delayed puberty with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH). Expression studies revealed Prdm13/PRDM13 transcripts in the developing hypothalamus and cerebellum in mouse and human. We investigated the development of hypothalamic neurons and the cerebellum in mice homozygous for a Prdm13 mutant allele.A significant reduction in the number of Kisspeptin (Kiss1) neurons in the hypothalamus and PAX2+ progenitors emerging from the cerebellar ventricular zone were observed. The latter was accompanied by ectopic expression of the glutamatergic lineage marker TLX3. Phenotypically, mice lacking PRDM13 displayed cerebellar hypoplasia, normal gonadal structure, but delayed pubertal onset. Together, these findings identify PRDM13 as a critical regulator of GABAergic cell fate in the cerebellum and of kisspeptin neuron development in the hypothalamus, providing a mechanistic explanation for the co-occurrence of CHH and cerebellar hypoplasia in this syndrome. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence linking disrupted PRDM13-mediated regulation of Kiss1 neurons to CHH in humans.
Transcriptomic signature on Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome patients, reveals an increased interferon response as a hallmark of critically ill patients
Authors: Ribeiro Grazielle E. , Duran-Jara Eduardo , Perez Ruth , Cuiza Analia , Leon Luis E. , Martínez-Valdebenito Constanza , Le Corre Nicole , Ferres Marcela , Ferreira Leonila , Rioseco Maria Luisa , Gavilán Jorge , Arancibia Francisco , Graf Jerónimo , Lopez Rene , Perez Jose Luis , Calvo Mario , Mertz Gregory J , A.Vial Pablo , Vial Cecilia ,   the hantavirus study group
Published: July 2021

AbstractNew World hantaviruses are important human pathogens that can cause a severe zoonotic disease called hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS). HCPS patients can progress quickly to a severe condition with respiratory failure and cardiogenic shock that can be fatal in 30% of the cases. The role of the host’s immune responses in this progression towards HCPS remains elusive. In this study, 12 patients hospitalized with severe HCPS were analyzed using a transcriptome approach combined with clinical laboratory data to gain a better insight into factors associated with a severe clinical course. Patients were further classified in two levels of severity, a first group that required mechanical ventilation and vasoactive drugs (VM+VD) and a second group that also needed ECMO or died (ECMO/Fatal). Their transcriptional profile was compared during acute (early and late) and convalescent phases. Our results showed that overexpression of the interferon response is correlated with a worse (ECMO/Fatal) outcome and an increased viral load and proinflammatory cytokines in the early-acute-phase. This report provides insights into the differences in innate immune activation between severe patients that associates with different clinical outcomes, using a non-biased approximation.Author SummaryHantavirus are rodent-borne zoonotic pathogens that when transmitted to humans cause two diseases: hantavirus renal syndrome in Europe and Asia, and hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) in the Americas. The latter, the goal of this work, is a highly lethal disease with a case fatality rate of 30%. Moreover no specific treatment or vaccine is available for this disease. In this study, we analyzed hospitalized HCPS patients with severe disease, to understand how they respond to hantavirus infection. We used a method that can measure every mRNA that is being transcribed in one moment (transcriptome analysis) and thus provide an accurate idea of how cells (specifically peripheral blood mononuclear cells) are responding to infection. The knowledge gained in this study helps us further understand the pathogenesis of this disease and might help us to design specific therapies to treat it.
In situ transcriptional profile of a germinal center plasmablastic burst hints at MYD88/CD79B mutants-enriched Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphomas
Authors: L’Imperio Vincenzo , Morello Gaia , Vegliante Maria Carmela , Cancila Valeria , Bertolazzi Giorgio , Mazzara Saveria , Belmonte Beatrice , Balzarini Piera , Corral Lilia , Napoli Arianna Di , Facchetti Fabio , Pagni Fabio , Tripodo Claudio 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThe germinal center (GC) reaction results in the selection of B-cells acquiring effector Ig secreting ability by progressing towards plasmablastic differentiation. This transition is associated with exclusion from the GC microenvironment. The aberrant expansion of plasmablastic elements within the GC fringes configures an atypical condition, the biological characteristics of which have not been defined yet. We investigated the in situ immunophenotypical and transcriptional characteristics of a non-clonal germinotropic expansion of plasmablastic elements (GEx) occurring in the tonsil of a young patient. Compared to neighboring GC and peri-follicular regions, the GEx showed a distinctive signature featuring key regulators of plasmacytic differentiation, cytokine signaling, and cell metabolism. The GEx signature was tested in the setting of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) as a prototypical model of lymphomagenesis encompassing transformation at different stages of GC and post-GC functional differentiation. The signature outlined DLBCL clusters with different immune microenvironment composition and enrichment in genetic subtypes.SignificanceThis report represents the first insight into the transcriptional features of a germinotropic plasmablastic burst, shedding light into the molecular hallmarks of B cells undergoing plasmablastic differentiation and aberrant expansion within the non-canonical setting of the GC microenvironment.