bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Combining PD-L1 Expression and Standardized Uptake Values in FDG-PET/CT Can Predict Prognosis in Patients With Resectable Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Miyazawa Tomoyuki , Otsubo Kanji , Sakai Hiroki , Kimura Hiroyuki , Chosokabe Motohiro , Morikawa Kei , Furuya Naoki , Marushima Hideki , Kojima Koji , Mineshita Masamichi , Koike Junki , Saji Hisashi 
Published: August 2021

Background This study aimed to determine the relationship of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression and standardized uptake values in fluorodeoxyglucose–positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) with prognosis in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods We retrospectively analyzed 328 NSCLC patients who underwent lobectomy/segmentectomy with lymph node dissection. PD-L1 expression was detected by immunohistochemically stained using the murine monoclonal antibody clone 22C3. The preoperative maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of FDG-PET/CT at the primary lesion; pathological factors including histological type, microscopic lymphatic, venous, and pleural invasion; and lymph node metastases in resected specimens was determined. Significant prognostic clinicopathologic factors were analyzed by univariate and multivariate analyses. Results PD-L1 expression was higher in men, smokers, squamous cell carcinoma, advanced pathologic stages, positive venous invasion, positive pleural invasion, and high preoperative SUVmax (≥3). Postoperative survival analysis showed that both PD-L1 expression and preoperative SUVmax were significantly negative prognostic factors in univariate analysis for overall survival (OS) ( P = 0.0123 and P < 0.0001) and relapse-free survival (RFS) ( P = 0.0012 and P < 0.0001). Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed that the OS and RFS were the best in patients with negative PD-L1 expression and SUVmax < 3, intermediate in patients with positive PD-L1 expression and SUVmax < 3 and those with negative PD-L1 expression and SUVmax ≥ 3, and poor in patients with positive PD-L1 expression and SUVmax ≥ 3. Conclusion Combining PD-L1 expression and preoperative FDG-PET/CT SUVmax in primary tumor might help in accurate prediction of postoperative prognosis in NSCLC patients.
Cognitive and Executive Contributions to Trail-Making Task Performance on Adolescents With and Without Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Harvie Grace , Braund Taylor A. , Kohn Michael R. , Korgaonkar Mayuresh S. , Clarke Simon , Williams Leanne M. , Griffiths Kristi R. 
Published: August 2021

Objective: The trail making task is used to assess executive functioning in ADHD youth, yet has only been validated in adult populations. We compare the relative contributions of various cognitive measures to performance on a trail making task analog, the Switching of Attention (SoA) task, in typically-developing and ADHD adolescents. Method: Participants were 160 adolescents with ADHD from the International Study to Predict Optimized Treatment—in ADHD, assessed at pretreatment baseline and 6-week medicated follow-up, and 160 matched typically-developing peers. Attention, processing speed, working memory, impulsivity, and motor speed were assessed using a cognitive battery. Results: Processing speed and working memory significantly contributed to SoA performance in ADHD, regardless of medication status. While medicated, motor speed also underpinned the prediction of most task measures. For typically-developing adolescents, sustained attention and working memory contributed to SoA performance. Conclusion: Typically-developing, unmedicated and treated ADHD adolescents recruit different aspects of cognition during SoA completion.
Associations Between Glucose Tolerance, Insulin Secretion, Muscle and Fat Mass in Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Nielsen Bibi Uhre , Faurholt-Jepsen Daniel , Oturai Peter Sandor , Qvist Tavs , Krogh-Madsen Rikke , Katzenstein Terese Lea , Shaw James , Ritz Christian , Pressler Tacjana , Almdal Thomas Peter , Mathiesen Inger Hee Mabuza 
Published: August 2021

Background: A frequent comorbidity in cystic fibrosis (CF) is CF related diabetes (CFRD) caused by a gradual decline in insulin secretion. The reduction in the anabolic hormone, insulin, might explain the weight loss that precedes onset of CFRD. We investigated the association between muscle and fat mass in relation to glucose tolerance and insulin function. Methods: In a cross-sectional study with CF patients (⩾18 years), we conducted an oral glucose tolerance test and dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scan (DXA). Based on plasma glucose, glucose tolerance was defined as normal (NGT): 1-hour <11.1 mmol/L and 2-hour <7.8 mmol/L, impaired (IGT): 2-hour ⩾7.8 and <11.1 mmol/L or CFRD: 2-hour ⩾11.1 mmol/L. Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was derived from fasting levels of plasma glucose and plasma insulin, and fat-free and fat mass index (kg/m2) from DXA. Associations were evaluated using linear regression models adjusted for age, sex, and pancreas insufficiency. Results: Among 79 CF patients with exocrine pancreas insufficiency, impairment of glucose tolerance corresponded to reduced insulin secretion. In the IGT group the fat-free mass index (FFMI) was 1.2 kg/m2 (95% CI: [−2.3, −0.03] kg/m2, P = .044) lower compared to the NGT group. FFMI increased insignificantly by 0.4 kg/m2 (95% CI: [−0.6, 1.5] kg/m2, P = .422) among the insulin-treated CFRD group compared to IGT. Fat mass index (FMI) was not different between groups but tended to decrease with glucose tolerance impairment. For each 100 pmol/L increase in fasting insulin FFMI increased by 1.77 kg/m2 (95% CI: [0.21, 3.33] kg/m2/pmol/L/100) and FMI increased by 6.15 kg/m2 (95% CI: [3.87, 8.44] kg/m2/pmol/L/100). In multivariate analyses, HOMA-IR was positively associated with FFMI (β = 0.5 kg/m2/HOMA-IR, 95% CI: [0.08, 0.92] kg/m2/HOMA-IR, P = .021) and FMI (β = 1.5 kg/m2/HOMA-IR, 95% CI: [0.87, 2.15] kg/m2/HOMA-IR, P < .001). Conclusions: Muscle mass was significantly lower among participants with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), while muscle mass was normalized among those treated with insulin.
Patterns and perspectives shape perceptions: Epistemological and methodological reflections on the study of small-scale multilingualism
Authors: Lüpke Friederike 
Published: August 2021

Aims and objectives: This paper captures social dimensions of language in highly diverse small-scale multilingual contexts that appear to pose challenges for (socio)linguistic description and documentation. I focus on the seeming contradiction of monolingual imaginations of places with heterogeneous and multilingual inhabitants, on great fluidity and variability of language use and the concomitant limits of reification-based identification of codes, and on personalised repertoires shaped by individual trajectories and relational, rather than categorical, stances. Approach: I propose patterns and perspectives as two interrelated dimensions to guide research in configurations of this kind, illustrating epistemological and methodological points through data from multilingual settings in Casamance, Senegal. Data and analysis: I focus on data collected in the village of Agnack Grand and its surroundings, but also include data from across the Lower Casamance and adjacent regions of Guinea-Bissau, discussing patterns of multilingual organisation and extracts from conversation and how their speech forms are categorised. Findings: The paper brings sociohistorical dimensions of small-scale multilingualism to the fore and identifies their lasting influences on spatial representations of language regimes. Linguistic spaces influence perspectives on speech events taking place in them and circumscribe speech participants’ and observers’ choices in describing repertoires, producing and analysing speech forms. Beyond the selection of language modes, perspective also determines how speech forms are categorised. I demonstrate that the patterns speakers and observers have experienced and the perspectives they assume are decisive in shaping their perception. Originality: My central observation is that there is no objective, neutral viewpoint on (multilingual) speech, but that positionality frames it at all levels. I develop new epistemologies for studying these dimensions. Significance: Putting the categorisation processes employed by speakers and observers and their underlying motivations centre stage and integrating sociolinguistic and anthropological linguistic methods and historical knowledge into linguistic description and documentation constitutes an innovative research programme.
Dynamic, Time-Resolved Computed Tomography Angiography Technique to Characterize Aortic Endoleak Type, Inflow and Provide Guidance for Targeted Treatment
Authors: Berczeli Marton , Lumsden Alan B. , Chang Su Min , Bavare Charudatta S. , Chinnadurai Ponraj 
Published: August 2021

Purpose: To illustrate dynamic, time-resolved CTA (d-CTA) imaging technique in characterizing aortic endoleak type/inflow using quantitative parameters and its value in providing image guidance for targeted treatment approach. Technique: Dedicated endoleak protocol involved acquiring multiple time-resolved contrast enhanced scans using third-generation CT scanner (Somatom Force®, Siemens Healthineers). Parameters such as scan field of view (FOV), kV, number/timing of scans were customized based on patient’s body-mass-index, timing bolus, and prior imaging findings. D-CTA image datasets were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively using time-attenuation curves (TAC) analysis after motion correction using a dedicated software ( syngo.via®, Siemens). D-CTA findings from 4 illustrative cases demonstrating type I, type II (inferior mesenteric and lumbar artery inflow), and type III endoleak were illustrated. TAC analysis with time to peak parameter enabled better characterization of endoleak type and inflow. During endoleak intervention, target vessels from d-CTA images were electronically annotated and overlaid on fluoroscopy using 2D−3D image fusion to provide image guidance for targeted treatment. Conclusion: D-CTA imaging with TAC analysis characterizes aortic endoleak type and inflow, in addition to providing image guidance for targeted endoleak treatment. Such dynamic, time-resolved imaging techniques may provide further insights into understanding aortic endoleak that remains an Achilles heel for endovascular aortic aneurysm repair.
Factors associated with early and late digital revascularization and replantation failure: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Florczynski Matthew , Khan Shawn , Retrouvey Helene , Solaja Ogi , Baltzer Heather 
Published: August 2021

Factors associated with failure of digital revascularization and replantation procedures have been well characterized, but studies have not investigated failures occurring beyond the early postoperative period. A single-centre retrospective chart review included 284 patients (434 digits) who underwent digital revascularization or replantation. Patient-, injury- and surgery-related characteristics were compared among successful procedures, digits that failed while in hospital (early failure), and initially viable digits that failed after hospital discharge (late failure). Overall, 202 patients had successful procedures (71%). There were 51 early failures (18%) and 31 late failures (11%). Crush injuries and vein grafting were associated with early failure only. Complete amputations and leeching were strongly associated with both early and late failure. This study revealed that a substantial proportion of initially viable digits fail after discharge from hospital. Patients with signs of venous congestion may benefit from longer observation periods in hospital to avoid late failure. Level of evidence: IV
The Importance of Nasal Provocation Testing in the Diagnosis of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus-Induced Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Xiao Hao , Jia Qiaoru , Zhang Hongting , Zhang Li , Liu Guo , Meng Juan 
Published: August 2021

Background Allergen identification is the first step for allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) of allergic rhinitis (AR). Currently, the diagnosis of AR is based mainly on the positive results of the skin prick test (SPT) and/or serum specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) measurement. However, the results of these two tests may not always directly correlate with AR. Objective To investigate the importance of nasal provocation testing (NPT) in the diagnosis of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p)-induced AR. Methods Rhinitis patients willing to undergo AIT (n = 171) were enrolled. The correlations of Der p SPT, sIgE, NPT, and clinical symptom severity were assessed. Results NPT-positive responses were more common in patients with higher SPT and sIgE levels. The optimal cut-off value for a NPT-positive response for SPT was 5.5 mm and for sIgE was 2.77 kUA/L, based on the respective receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The area under the curve (AUC) of the ROCs was 0.814 (SPT only) and 0.794 (sIgE only) and increased to 0.828 with the combination of SPT and sIgE. The Der p-NPT concentration was inversely correlated with SPT and sIgE levels ( r = −0.477, P < .001, and r = −0.461, P < .001, respectively), but none was correlated with the total nasal symptom score. Conclusion For patients who are willing to receive Der p AIT, NPT is a useful and safe test to confirm diagnosis prior to treatment initiation, especially in patients with lower levels of Der p SPT (< 5.5 mm) or sIgE (< 2.77 kUA/L).
The protective effect of cannabinoid type II receptor agonist AM1241 on ConA-induced liver injury in mice via mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling pathway
Authors: Wu Yafeng , Ma Run , Long Cuizhen , Shu Yuanhui , He Ping , Zhou Yan , Xiang Yining , Wang Yuping 
Published: August 2021

Introduction The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in regulating the immune responses in inflammation. At present, there are no good clinical drugs for many immune liver diseases. Methods We explored the protective effect of the cannabinoid type II (CB2) receptor agonist AM1241 on the liver of mice with acute liver injury caused by concanavalin from the perspective of inflammation and immunity. Pathological evaluation in hepatic tissue was examined by haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and the levels of biochemical parameters in the serum were measured by automatic biochemical analysis. The content of inflammatory factors was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR). The liver apoptosis-related proteins were observed by immunohistochemistry. The expression of liver injury-related proteins was analysed by Western blot. Immune cells were isolated from the liver of mice and studied in vitro. Results Reduced levels of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase were observed in ConA-induced liver injury mice treated with AM1241, together with attenuated liver damage evidenced by H&E staining. Moreover, AM1241 inhibited the protein and gene expression levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and IFN-γ in the livers of mice. The phosphorylation levels of p38, JNK, ERK1/2, P65 and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) in the mouse were significantly reduced in AM1241 pretreatment, while the level of p-JNK increased. In addition, the P/T-P65 and P/T-CREB of the AM1241 pretreatment group were significantly reduced. The results of immunohistochemistry measurement are consistent with those of Western blotting. The CB2-mediated effect is through macrophage-like Kupffer cells. Conclusion Our study suggests that the ConA-induced liver injury model in mice is protected by CB2 agonist AM1241 by modulation of CB2 receptor-rich immune cells, for example, Kupffer cells. Reduced inflammatory responses regulate apoptosis/cell death in the liver particularly hepatocytes and other parenchymal cells.
Chicoric acid alleviates LPS-induced inflammatory response through miR-130a-3p/IGF-1pathway in human lung A549 epithelial cells
Authors: Yan Zheng , Huang Qing-Lan , Chen Jun , Liu Fan , Wei Yi , Chen Shu-Li , Wu Chun-Yan , Li Zhen , Lin Xiao-Ping 
Published: August 2021

To investigate the effects and potential mechanisms of chicoric acid (CA) on LPS-induced inflammatory response in A549 cells. 0–800 μM CA was added to A549 cells to determine the toxicity of CA using MTT assay. Then, 2 μg/mL LPS and 50 μM CA were simultaneously added to A549 cells to investigate the effects of CA. In order to investigate the effects of miR-130a-3p and IGF-1 on LPS-induced A549 cells, cells were infected with inhibitor of miR-130a-3p and si RNA IGF-1. The levels of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were measured by real-time RT-PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) assay. The IGF-1 pathway and NF-κB expression were measured using immunoblot assay. Moreover, a luciferase activity assay was used to indicate the binding site of miR-130a-3p on the 3′UTR of IGF-1. 0–50 μM CA had no toxicity on A549 cells. Thus, we chose 50 μM CA for the following study. CA attenuated the inflammatory response by LPS through decreasing IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels and increasing IGF-1/IGF-1R expression. Inhibition of miR-130a-3p reduced the inflammatory response and restored IGF-1/IGF-1R pathway induced by LPS. Furthermore, luciferase activity results indicated that miR-130a-3p directly targeted IGF-1 to regulate inflammatory response. CA alleviates LPS-induced inflammatory response through miR-130a-3p/IGF-1pathway in A549 cells.
Higher Charlson Comorbidity Index Increases 90-Day Readmission Rate with Poorer Functional Outcomes in Surgically Treated Hip Fracture Patients
Authors: Gatot Cheryl , Shern-En Tan Evan , Liow Ming Han Lincoln , Yongqiang Chen Jerry , Png Meng Ai , Tan Mann Hong , Howe Tet Sen , Bee Koh Joyce Suang 
Published: August 2021

Introduction The associated mortality and morbidity in hip fracture patients pose a major healthcare burden for ageing populations worldwide. We aim to analyse how an individual’s comorbidity profile based on age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) may impact on functional outcomes and 90-day readmission rates after hip fracture surgery. Materials and Methods Surgically treated hip fracture patients between 2013 and 2016 were followed up for 1-year and assessed using Parker Mobility Score (PMS), EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D) and Physical and Mental Component Scores (PCS and MCS, respectively) of Short Form-36 (SF-36). Statistical analysis was done by categorising 444 patients into three groups based on their CCI: (1) CCI 0–3, (2) CCI 4–5 and (3) CCI ≥ 6. Results PMS, EQ-5D and SF-36 PCS were significantly different amongst the CCI groups pre-operatively and post-operatively at 3, 6 and 12 months (all P < 0.05), with CCI ≥ 6 predicting for poorer outcomes. In terms of 90-day readmission rates, patients who have been readmitted have poorer outcome scores. Multivariate analysis showed that high CCI scores and 90-day readmission rate both remained independent predictors of worse outcomes for SF-36 PCS, PMS and EQ-5D. Discussion CCI scores ≥6 predict for higher 90-day readmission rates, poorer quality of life and show poor potential for functional recovery 1-year post-operation in hip fracture patients. 90-day readmission rates are also independently associated with poorer functional outcomes. Peri-operatively, surgical teams should liaise with medical specialists to optimise patients’ comorbidities and ensure their comorbidities remain well managed beyond hospital discharge to reduce readmission rates. With earlier identification of patient groups at risk of poorer functional outcomes, more planning can be directed towards appropriate management and subsequent rehabilitation. Conclusion Further research should focus on development of a stratified, peri-operative multidisciplinary, hip-fracture care pathway treatment regime based on CCI scores to determine its effectiveness in improving functional outcomes.
Augmentation of Primary ACL Reconstruction With a Modified Ellison Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis in High-Risk Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Feller Julian A. , Devitt Brian M. , Webster Kate E. , Klemm Haydn J. 
Published: August 2021

Background: Lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) has been used to augment primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction to reduce the risk of reinjury. Most LET procedures result in a construct that is fixed to both the femur and the tibia. In a modified Ellison procedure, the construct is only fixed distally, reducing the risk of inadvertently overconstraining the lateral compartment. Purpose: To evaluate the use of the modified Ellison procedure in a cohort of patients deemed to be at a high risk of further ACL injury after primary ACL reconstruction. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Included were 25 consecutive patients with at least 2 of the following risk factors: age <20 years at the time of surgery, previous contralateral ACL reconstruction, positive family history of ACL rupture (parent or sibling), generalized ligamentous laxity (Beighton ≥4), grade 3 pivot shift in the consulting room, a desire to return to a pivoting sport, and an elite or professional status. All patients underwent primary ACL reconstruction with an additional modified Ellison procedure. Postoperatively, patients completed the IKDC subjective knee evaluation form (International Knee Documentation Committee), KOOS Quality of Life subscale (Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score), ACL–Return to Sport After Injury Scale, Marx Activity Rating Scale, and SANE score (Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation). Results: At 12-month follow-up, the mean outcome scores were as follows: SANE, 94/100; IKDC, 92/100; Marx, 13/16; ACL–Return to Sport, 85/100; and KOOS, 77/100. At 24 months, return-to-sport data were available for 23 of 25 patients; 17 (74%) were playing at the same level or higher than preinjury and 2 at a lower level. One patient (4%) sustained a contact mechanism graft rupture at 12 months. There were 2 (9%) contralateral ACL injuries, including 1 ACL graft rupture, at 11 and 22 months postoperatively. There was a further contralateral ACL graft rupture at 26 months. Conclusion: The use of the modified Ellison procedure as a LET augmentation of a primary ACL reconstruction to produce a low graft rupture rate appeared to be safe in a cohort considered to be at a high risk of reinjury. The procedure showed promise in terms of reducing further graft injuries.
Effects of 7-day supplementation with escalating doses of citrulline nitrate on resting and post-exercise blood pressure and safety biomarkers in healthy men: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Todorovic Nikola , Stajer Valdemar , Ratgeber Laszlo , Betlehem Jozsef , Acs Pongras , Ostojic Sergej M 
Published: August 2021

We investigated the effects of 7-day supplementation with three different dosages of citrulline nitrate (CN) on blood pressure at rest and after exercise, biochemical safety markers, and self-reported outcome measures of adverse events in healthy men. 12 apparently healthy young men (age 25.9 ± 4.0 years; weight 78.6 ± 10.0 kg, height 181.0 ± 7.0 cm) volunteered to participate in this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over trial. The dosages of CN were 1.5 g per day (low dose), 3.0 g per day (medium dose), and 6.0 g per day (high dose). No significant differences were found for systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate at rest and after exercise between varying doses of CN and placebo ( p > 0.05). In addition, hematological indices, biochemical variables, and clinical enzyme profiles were not affected by either intervention ( p > 0.05), and the type and frequency of side effects were comparable to the placebo group. Citrulline nitrate was safe and well tolerated when administered for 7 days in dosages up to 6 g per day.