bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Examining the learning curves in robotic cardiac surgery wet lab simulation training
Authors: Atroshchenko Gennady V , Navarra Emiliano , Valdis Matthew , Sandoval Elena , Hashemi Nasseh , Cerny Stepan , Pereda Daniel , Palmen Meindert , Bjerrum Flemming , Bruun Niels Henrik , Tolsgaard Martin G 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Simulation-based training has gained distinction in cardiothoracic surgery as robotic-assisted cardiac procedures evolve. Despite the increasing use of wet lab simulators, the effectiveness of these training methods and skill acquisition rates remain poorly understood.

OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to compare learning curves and assess the robotic cardiac surgical skill acquisition rate for cardiac and noncardiac surgeons who had no robotic experience in a wet lab simulation setting.

METHODS
In this prospective cohort study, participants practiced 3 robotic tasks in a porcine model: left atriotomy closure, internal thoracic artery harvesting and mitral annular suturing. Participants were novice robotic cardiac and noncardiac surgeons alongside experienced robotic cardiac surgeons who established performance benchmarks. Performance was evaluated using the time-based score and modified global evaluative assessment of robotic skills (mGEARS).

RESULTS
The participants were 15 novice surgeons (7 cardiac; 8 noncardiac) and 4 experienced robotic surgeons. Most novices reached mastery in 52 (±22) min for atrial closure, 32 (±18) for internal thoracic artery harvesting and 34 (±12) for mitral stitches, with no significant differences between the cardiac and noncardiac surgeons. However, for mGEARS, noncardiac novices faced more challenges in internal thoracic artery harvesting. The Thurstone learning curve model indicated no significant difference in the learning rates between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS
Wet lab simulation facilitates the rapid acquisition of robotic cardiac surgical skills to expert levels, irrespective of surgeons’ experience in open cardiac surgery. These findings support the use of wet lab simulators for standardized, competency-based training in robotic cardiac surgery.
No virological failure in patients living with HIV with past NNRTI resistance-associated mutations switched to doravirine-containing regimens
Authors: Abdi B , Saliba S , Wirden M , Faycal A , Cocherie T , Palich R , Schneider L , Seang S , Valantin M A , Pourcher V , Calvez V , Marcelin A , Katlama C 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Doravirine is licensed in patients living with HIV (PWH) harbouring no prior resistance to any NNRTIs. We aimed to evaluate in real life the efficacy of doravirine with prior NNRTI virological failure and NNRTI resistance-associated mutations (RAMs).

Methods
This observational study included PWH switched to a doravirine-containing regimen between 30 September 2019 and 1 May 2022, with an HIV-1 RNA of ≤50 copies/mL and past NNRTI-RAMs. The main outcome was the proportion of participants with virological failure at Week 48 and Week 96. Secondary outcomes evaluated the rate of viral suppression and transient virological blip, RAMs in the case of virological failure and side effects.

Results
A total of 102 patients were analysed, mostly men (63%), with a median age of 59 years (IQR 51–63). The median time since HIV-1 diagnosis was 26 years (IQR 16–31), on ART for 22 years (IQR 14–26) and virally suppressed for 7 years (IQR 1–11).
Of the patients analysed, 25/102 (25%) had documented historical RAMs to doravirine, 9/25 (36%) showing possible resistance and 16/25 (64%) showing major resistance. The resistance profile primarily (21/23) consisted of the K103N, Y181C and/or G190A/E reverse transcriptase substitutions. Median time since the last detection of NNRTI-RAMs was 12 years (5–17). Over 2 years follow-up, no virological failure occurred, neither at Week 48 (0/87; 0%) nor Week 96 (0/86; 0%).

Conclusions
This is the first real-world study to provide new insight about the use of doravirine-containing regimens as a treatment in long-term suppressed patients whose viruses harboured specific NNRTI-RAMs in their history.
Advances in analytical methodologies for detecting novel psychoactive substances: a review
Authors: Krotulski Alex J , Mata Dani C , Smith Christina R , Palmquist-Orlando Kaitlyn B , Modell Celia , Vikingsson Svante , Truver Michael T 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) have historically been challenging compounds to analyze in forensic toxicology. The identification, detection, and quantitation of these analytes and their metabolites have been difficult due to their rapid emergence, short lifespan, and various potencies. Advancements in analytical instrumentation are fundamental to mitigating these NPS challenges by providing reliable identification and sensitivity. This review discusses the pros and cons of various analytical instruments that have played a pivotal role in NPS analysis. As analytical technology advanced, the ability to analyze for NPS became easier with high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS); however, traditional immunoassays are still beneficial for some NPS classes such as benzodiazepines. Over 200 articles from 2010–23 were reviewed, and 180 were utilized for this review. Journal articles were categorized according to the technology used during analysis: immunoassay, gas chromatography–MS, liquid chromatography–MS—low resolution, and liquid chromatography–MS—high resolution to allow for quick references based on a laboratory’s technologies. Journal articles were organized in table format to outline the authors, NPS drug classes, and instrumentation used, among other important information.
Postmortem distribution of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine in 51 cases
Authors: Osawa Kei A , Johnson Robert D 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The prevalence of mitragynine (kratom) in forensic toxicology casework has steadily increased over time. Readily available and currently legal, mitragynine is widely used for its stimulant and, depending on concentration, sedative effects. Our laboratory analyzed various fluid and tissue specimens from 51 postmortem cases to investigate the distribution of mitragynine and its active metabolite 7-hydroxymitragynine. Central and peripheral blood concentrations were compared, with an average heart blood to femoral blood ratio being 1.37 for mitragynine and 1.08 for 7-hydroxymitragynine. This ratio &gt;1.0 suggests that mitragynine has some propensity toward postmortem redistribution; however, the difference in concentrations of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine is not statistically significant. Large average mitragynine to 7-hydroxymitragynine ratios of 30.9 in femoral blood and 32.4 in heart blood were observed compared to average ratios of 14.8 in vitreous humor and 16.9 in urine. In addition, the stability of these two compounds was investigated in both matrix and organic solvent. When stored refrigerated (4°C), mitragynine was stable for up to 30 days and 7-hydroxymitragynine was stable for up to 7 days with an analyte loss of &lt;20%. Following 60 days of refrigerated storage, 7-hydroxymitragynine concentrations dropped over 50% from initial concentrations. Methanolic preparations of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine were stable following 3 months of storage at −20°C.
Observation of morphological changes in silicon-based negative-electrode active materials during charging/discharging using Operando scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Kurosawa Takako , Fukumoto Noriaki , Inoue Kaoru , Igaki Emiko 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The direct observation of the morphological changes in silicon-based negative electrode (Si-based negative electrode) materials during battery charging and discharging is useful for handling such materials and in electrode plate design. We developed an operando scanning electron microscopy (operando SEM) technique to quantitatively evaluate the expansion and contraction of Si-based negative electrode materials. A small all-solid-state lithium-ion battery was charged and discharged, and the expansion/contraction of particles while harnessing capacity was observed using SEM. We found that in a silicon monosilicate (SiO)/graphite negative electrode, SiO expanded first during charging, and graphite contracted first during discharging. Our study provides insights into the relationship between capacity and expansion and contraction coefficient of Si-based negative electrode materials.
At All Costs: How Relative Rebel Strength Affects PGM Sexual Violence in Civil Conflict
Authors: Roy Chhandosi , Sarwari Mehwish 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Does the military strength of rebel movements affect conflict-related sexual violence by pro-government militias (PGMs)? Existing studies on PGMs show the significant role that PGMs can have in shaping conflict dynamics and outcomes. What remains understudied is how the variation in power capabilities between conflict actors and the sources of support for PGMs influences civilian victimization by militia groups. We argue that strong rebels tip the balance of power against the state, making the state more susceptible to authorizing or allowing sexual violence by PGMs. In addition, the level of autonomy of PGMs from the government is likely to influence their sexual violence, conditional on rebel strength. When rebels are militarily strong, states are likely to order or tolerate sexual violence by PGMs that they train and/or provide resources to, thereby resulting in sexual violence by state-dependent PGMs. Examining all civil conflicts from 1989 to 2009 and using newly collected data on state-dependence of PGMs, our empirical findings provide evidence that PGMs are associated with higher levels of conflict-related sexual violence when the government faces strong rebels. Results also show that the likelihood of sexual violence by state-dependent PGMs increases when rebels exhibit strong military capabilities.
Unequal refugeeness. Race, gender, and co-belligerence from Poles in colonial Africa to Ukrainians in Poland
Authors: Lingelbach Jochen 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Refugee-receiving states do not live up to the universalist ideals of international refugee legislation but are selective and discriminatory. The case of Poland’s acceptance of Ukrainians while simultaneously building a border wall to keep out non-Ukrainians is an obvious case. Based on historical research on the British Empire’s policies towards European refugees, this article looks into a comparable moment when governments made an exception to their established anti-refugee policy and accepted certain groups of refugees. The British colonial administration in East Africa rejected Jewish refugees but accepted a specific group of Poles during the Second World War. This exception under war conditions was legitimized with an emphasis on the group’s gender, race, and connection to the co-belligerent Polish army. They were the white women and children of the Polish male soldiers fighting with the British against the Axis. The recent welcome for Ukrainian refugees in Poland followed similar lines of argumentation.
Technique for areolar reduction areolar-sparing mastectomy
Authors: Lawrence Zachary , Stroman Joel C , Karu Heather 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Achieving satisfactory nipple esthetics following skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy is an important element of ensuring positive patient outcomes. Several techniques used to reconstruct the nipple–areolar complex have been described in previous literature and have had success in securing good cosmetic outcomes. For patients with macrothelia, surgeons may employ a number of options in reducing nipple size. Existing studies have shown common preferences among individuals surveyed regarding breast cosmesis, specifically related to the nipples and areolae. However, for individuals with disproportionately large areolae following areolar-sparing mastectomy, there is scant literature to suggest methods of reducing the size of the areolae, and current practice appears to be based upon fixed diameters of areolar sizers. In this technical report, we describe a suture-only technique that successfully reduced areola diameter and recreated the appearance of a nipple with a small central projection following areolar-sparing mastectomy.
Sexual function and related predictors in male with multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: a case–control study
Authors: Vaheb Saeed , Yazdan Panah Mohammad , Mohammadi Mohammad , Sadri Mohammad Amin , Ebrahimi Narges , Loghmani Sarina , Beigi Marjan , Shaygannejad Vahid , Mirmosayyeb Omid 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Sexual dysfunction (SF) is a prevalent and distressing comorbidity in males with multiple sclerosis (MwMS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (MwNMOSD).

Aims
This study aimed to assess the SF in MwMS and MwNMOSD in comparison to male healthy controls (HCs) and identify its associated predictors.

Methods
This case–control study was conducted from February 2023 to January 2024 at the MS clinic of Kashani Hospital, Isfahan, Iran. Participants included 49 MwMS, 27 MwNMOSD, and 40 HCs. Demographic, clinical, and psychological data were collected, and SF was evaluated by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Linear regression was used to assess relationships between variables.

Outcomes
SF was significantly worse in the MwMS and MwNMOSD compared to the HCs.

Results
SF was significantly lower in MwMS and MwNMOSD compared to HCs. In MwMS, significant independent predictors of SF included partner’s education (B = -2.7, P = .003), anxiety (B = -0.6, P = .003), and depression (B = -0.3, P = .026). In MwNMOSD, significant independent predictors of SF were EDSS (B = -5.7, P = .007) and anxiety (B = -1, P = .002).

Clinical Implications
Controlling risk factors such as depression and anxiety can improve SF of MwMS to a significant extent.

Strengths and Limitations
Despite limitations like the cross-sectional design and exclusion of certain variables, our study identifies significant associations between sexual dysfunction and various risk factors in MwMS and MwNMOSD, emphasizing the need for future longitudinal research.

Conclusion
MwMS and MwNMOSD exhibited worse SF than HCs. Multiple factors have been identified as independent predictors of SF within these patient groups.
Contemporary prostate cancer radiation therapy trials may underestimate the risk of biochemical recurrence
Authors: West Michael , Flores Jose M , Mulhall John P 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Radiotherapy is often given with androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer which causes a reduction in testosterone levels, which when below castrate levels, can cause the prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels to be artificially low.

Aim
To determine if high-level radiotherapy clinical trials are underestimating biochemical recurrence (BCR) rates due to inadequate measurement of testosterone levels.

Methods
The study plans for clinical trials performed by the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG [now NRG]) on clinicaltrials.gov were reviewed for details on testosterone measurement in trials from 1994 to 2023, namely if the testosterone levels were indexed to PSA levels.

Outcomes
PSA being indexed to testosterone levels and other metrics of testosterone measurement, including time of day of measurement, assay used, and mean testosterone measurement.

Results
Five of 21 (24%) trials stipulated that testosterone levels should be indexed to PSA levels. Eleven of 21 (52%) trials made no mention of testosterone. No trial reported testosterone assay or time of day of measurement. Thirteen of 21 (62%) trials did not require regular follow-up testosterone measurements.

Clinical Implications
The number of clinical trials indexing or regularly measuring testosterone was surprisingly low, which could cause an underestimation of BCR rates.

Strengths and Limitations
Strengths include being the first study, to our knowledge, to analyze the details of testosterone measurement in high-level radiotherapy trials. Limitations include only analyzing RTOG/NRG trials, analyzing unpublished data, and using clinicaltrials.gov rather than official trial protocols to determine details of testosterone measurement.

Conclusion
Indexing of testosterone levels to PSA levels in high-level radiotherapy trials using androgen deprivation therapy was uncommon, possibly rendering data on BCR unreliable, potentially underestimating BCR rates.
Evolutionary Dynamics of RuBisCO: Emergence of the Small Subunit and its Impact Through Time
Authors: Amritkar Kaustubh , Cuevas-Zuviría Bruno , Kaçar Betül 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCO) is an ancient protein critical for CO2-fixation and global biogeochemistry. Form-I RuBisCO complexes uniquely harbor small subunits that form a hexadecameric complex together with their large subunits. The small subunit protein is thought to have significantly contributed to RuBisCO's response to the atmospheric rise of O2 ∼2.5 billion years ago, marking a pivotal point in the enzyme's evolutionary history. Here, we performed a comprehensive evolutionary analysis of extant and ancestral RuBisCO sequences and structures to explore the impact of the small subunit's earliest integration on the molecular dynamics of the overall complex. Our simulations suggest that the small subunit restricted the conformational flexibility of the large subunit early in its history, impacting the evolutionary trajectory of the Form-I RuBisCO complex. Molecular dynamics investigations of CO2 and O2 gas distribution around predicted ancient RuBisCO complexes suggest that a proposed “CO2-reservoir” role for the small subunit is not conserved throughout the enzyme's evolutionary history. The evolutionary and biophysical response of RuBisCO to changing atmospheric conditions on ancient Earth showcase multi-level and trackable responses of enzymes to environmental shifts over long timescales.
A Hitchhiker’s Guide Toward CSF Biomarkers for Neuro-Oncology
Authors: Riviere-Cazaux Cecile , Keough Michael B , Zuccato Jeffrey A , Kumar Rahul , Schulz Sebastian , Warrington Arthur E , Ruff Michael W , Ellingson Benjamin M , Sanai Nader , Campian Jian L , Kizilbash Sani H , Parney Ian F , Zadeh Gelareh , Khasraw Mustafa , Kessler Tobias , Sener Ugur , Cahill Daniel P , Mansouri Alireza , Burns Terry C 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has emerged as a valuable liquid biopsy source for glioma biomarker discovery and validation. CSF produced within the ventricles circulates through the subarachnoid space, where the composition of glioma-derived analytes is influenced by the proximity and anatomical location of sampling relative to tumor, in addition to underlying tumor biology. The substantial gradients observed between lumbar and intracranial CSF compartments for tumor-derived analytes underscore the importance of sampling site selection. Moreover, radiographic features, such as tumor-CSF contact and blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, are critical covariates that may affect biomarker detectability and the abundance of plasma-derived analytes in CSF, respectively. Longitudinal intracranial CSF sampling, enabled by access devices like Ommaya reservoirs, may offer a window into treatment response and disease progression, though variability in analyte yield, sample volumes, and the dynamic effects of surgical resection pose challenges. This review critically evaluates the anatomic, radiographic, and longitudinal factors that impact glioma CSF biomarker abundance. Practical considerations for longitudinal CSF biobanking, including access device placement and collection, are also reviewed. Key takeaways and recommendations for CSF glioma biomarker discovery and validation are provided based on our collective experience, along with resources for investigators aiming to develop CSF biobanking at their institutions.
METTL3 promotes osteogenesis by regulating N6-methyladenosine-dependent primary processing of hsa-miR-4526
Authors: Song Yidan , Gao Hongyu , Pan Yihua , Gu Yuxi , Sun Wentian , Liu Jun 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The function and mechanism of pri-miRNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in promoting miRNA maturation and regulating osteoblastic differentiation are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the role and regulatory mechanism of miRNA shear maturation regulated by methyltransferase like 3 (METTL3) in human adipose-derived stem cell (hASC) osteogenesis. Firstly, we found METTL3 promoted osteogenesis both in vivo and in vitro. Subsequently, three pri-miRNAs with the most significant methylated peaks were identified through methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq). Through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), MeRIP-qPCR and co-immunoprecipitation (CO-IP), it was determined that METTL3 promoted the processing of hsa-miR-4526 by mediating pri-miR4526/5190 m6A modification. Subsequent in vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated that hsa-miR-4526 promoted osteogenesis. Dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to verify that hsa-miR-4526 regulated osteogenic differentiation through TUBB3. It was found that TUBB3 can inhibit hASC osteogenesis. Further rescue experiments confirmed that METTL3 inhibited TUBB3 expression through hsa-miR-4526, thereby regulating osteogenic differentiation. RNA-seq revealed that TUBB3 may be involved in cell metabolism, calcium enrichment, osteoclast differentiation, and other pathways. Our study is the first to investigate the mechanism of pri-miRNA m6A modification in regulating hASC osteogenesis, presenting a novel idea and method for repairing bone defects.
Therapeutic potential of Achillea millefolium L. extract on 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) -induced ovary cancer in Wistar rats: a biochemical, molecular and histopathological approach
Authors: Zhang Linsen , Yuan Xiu , Peng Qingmei 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is a significant cause of cancer-related mortality among women. This study explores the efficacy of Achillea millefolium L. (A. millefolium) extract, known for its phytoestrogenic properties, in treating OC through hormonal and metabolic modulation. Using a Wistar rat model, OC was induced with 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA), and the effects of A. millefolium, both alone and in combination with paclitaxel (PTX), were evaluated. The study involved five groups of ten rats each: normal, OC, and those receiving 100 mg/kg of A. millefolium with or without PTX. Key hormonal levels, oxidative stress markers, and inflammatory cytokines were measured. Additionally, ovarian tissues were analyzed for malondialdehyde and ferric reducing ability of plasma, while gene and protein expressions related to apoptosis were assessed. Results showed that A. millefolium, particularly when combined with PTX, reduced the luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio, increased antioxidant enzyme activity, and upregulated apoptosis-related pathways, leading to higher p53 expression and fewer Ki-67 positive cells. These findings suggest A. millefolium’s potential as a complementary therapy for women with OC, particularly those with ovulation disorders.