bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Decompression Obturator Prostheses in the Treatment of Cystic Odontogenic Lesions: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Vlock Maria , Singh Annu , Farmer Anthony J. , Kronstadt Kenneth , Randazzo Joseph D. , Halpern Jerry , Tunick Steven , Huryn Joseph M. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundTo spare important anatomical structures from damage during treatment of cystic odontogenic lesions, decompression has become a conservative alternative to enucleation. Marsupialization, in combination with the use of a custom‐made decompression prosthesis, is an effective method of inducing reduction and bony infill of cystic lesions of the jaw.MethodsIn this case series and review of the literature, we describe three patients with odontogenic cysts of the mandible who were treated with custom‐made decompression obturator prostheses (DOP) at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Dental Service.ResultsAt the conclusion of treatment, all patients demonstrated complete resolution of their respective bony defects.ConclusionDOP provide effective means of keeping the cyst opening patent following marsupialization, which allows for adequate, if not complete, resolution of defects, often without need for subsequent enucleation.
Baseline Tumor Burden Assessed With AI‐Guided PET/CT Total Metabolic Tumor Volume (TMTV) and LDH Levels Predict Efficacy of CAR‐T in Aggressive B‐Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Galli Eugenio , Guarneri Andrea , Sorà Federica , Viscovo Marcello , Pansini Ilaria , Maiolo Elena , Alma Eleonora , Annunziata Salvatore , Sica Simona , Leccisotti Lucia , Hohaus Stefan 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTDisease burden is a critical determinant of outcomes in CAR‐T therapy for B‐cell lymphomas, and one of the most widely used techniques for its assessment is Total Metabolic Tumor Volume (TMTV) measured via [18F]FDG PET/CT. Biological parameters may further refine the risk profile. We analyzed baseline [18F]FDG PET/CT scans from 40 patients treated with CAR‐T, using an AI‐based automated segmentation algorithm to determine TMTV. Our analysis identified that a baseline TMTV greater than 48.4 cm³ and elevated LDH independently predicted progression‐free survival (PFS) after CAR‐T therapy (HR 4.28, p = 0.007, and HR 8.20, p < 0.001, respectively). We then proposed a 0‐to‐2 risk score, assigning one point each for elevated TMTV and elevated LDH. All patients with a score of two experienced a PFS of less than 90 days following CAR‐T infusion. Among the remaining patients, those with 0 points versus 1 point demonstrated a 3‐month PFS of 100% versus 85%, a 6‐month PFS of 92% versus 53%, and a 12‐month PFS of 83% versus 53%, respectively. Importantly, patients with high baseline TMTV who achieved a TMTV reduction to less than 1.99 cm³ by day 30 had a PFS of 66%, significantly better compared to those who did not achieve this reduction. AI‐guided TMTV assessment, combined with LDH levels, provides a rapid and sensitive method for risk stratification at the bedside, which could help optimize patient management prior to CAR‐T therapy.
Effects of 12‐Week Moderate‐Intensity Versus High‐Intensity Water‐Aerobic Training on Physical Fitness, Cardiovascular Health, and Well‐Being in Adults and Older Adults: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Faíl Luís Brandão , Marinho Daniel Almeida , Marques Elisa A , Gonçalves Juliana Mendes , Gil Maria Helena , Pereira Rogério Alves , Marques Mário Cardoso , Izquierdo Mikel , Neiva Henrique Pereira 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackground and AimsThe current study aimed to compare the effects of 12 weeks of moderate versus high‐intensity water aerobics on muscle strength, body composition, lipid profile, blood pressure, and quality of life in both adults and older adults.MethodsTwenty‐one women (65.19 ± 9.37 years) were randomly allocated to moderate (MIG; n = 11) or high‐intensity groups (HIG; n = 10). Both groups attended 45‐min sessions twice a week for 12 weeks. Assessments at baseline and posttraining included muscle endurance, explosive strength, body mass, body mass index, fat mass, fat‐free mass, triglycerides, total cholesterol, blood pressure, resting heart rate, general quality of life, and general health, and the physical, psychological, social relationships, and environmental domains of quality of life.ResultsHIG experienced greater reductions in cholesterol (ηp2 = 0.28) and fat mass (ηp2 = 0.35), and an increase in fat‐free mass (ηp2 = 0.35), compared to the MIG. The HIG also showed greater improvements in triglycerides (ηp2 = 0.24) and physical quality of life (ηp2 = 0.19) than MIG. No significant group × time interactions were found in the other variables. Nevertheless, muscular endurance and psychological quality of life were improved in both groups (p < 0.05, ES ≥ 0.57). The HIG was the only group to experience a reduction in diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.04, ES = −0.71), while the MIG showed no significant change. Explosive strength did not change in either group.ConclusionThe study suggests that high‐intensity water aerobics provide additional benefits over moderate intensity for body composition, blood lipids, diastolic blood pressure, and physical quality of life in adults and older adults. However, both intensities effectively improved muscular endurance and psychological quality of life. Future studies should include a larger number of participants and groups (e.g., control group), longer interventions, and controlled dietary intake. Nonetheless, the current results demonstrate that exercise intensity is an important variable for optimal water aerobics outcomes.
A Systematic Review of the Outcomes of Utilization of Artificial Intelligence Within the Healthcare Systems of the Middle East: A Thematic Analysis of Findings
Authors: Khosravi Mohsen , Mojtabaeian Seyyed Morteza , Demiray Emine Kübra Dindar , Sayar Burak 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackground and AimsThe rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) within worldwide healthcare systems is occurring at a significant rate. In this context, the Middle East has demonstrated distinctive characteristics in the application of AI within the healthcare sector, particularly shaped by regional policies. This study examined the outcomes resulting from the utilization of AI within healthcare systems in the Middle East.MethodsA systematic review was conducted across several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews in 2024. The quality assessment of the included studies was conducted using the Authority, Accuracy, Coverage, Objectivity, Date, Significance checklist. Following this, a thematic analysis was carried out on the acquired data, adhering to the Boyatzis approach.Results100 papers were included. The quality and bias risk of the included studies were delineated to be within an acceptable range. Multiple themes were derived from the thematic analysis including: “Prediction of diseases, their diagnosis, and outcomes,” “Prediction of organizational issues and attributes,” “Prediction of mental health issues and attributes,” “Prediction of polypharmacy and emotional analysis of texts,” “Prediction of climate change issues and attributes,” and “Prediction and identification of success and satisfaction among healthcare individuals.”ConclusionThe findings emphasized AI's significant potential in addressing prevalent healthcare challenges in the Middle East, such as cancer, diabetes, and climate change. AI has the potential to overhaul the healthcare systems. The findings also highlighted the need for policymakers and administrators to develop a concrete plan to effectively integrate AI into healthcare systems.
Distribution of Virulence‐Associated and Aminoglycoside Resistance Genes Among Clinical Isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae in the Southeast of Iran, During 2019–2023: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Vaez Hamid , Yazdanpour Zahra 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackground and AimsKlebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), included in the World Health Organization's list of critical priority pathogens, is considered a serious threat to public health. The present study aims to investigate the prevalence of virulence‐associated and aminoglycoside resistance genes in clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae.MethodsThis cross‐sectional study was carried out on 88 clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae collected from patients at Zabol hospital, Iran. Isolates were identified using conventional microbiology tests and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Antibiotic susceptibility patterns were ascertained by the disc diffusion method. The prevalence of virulence‐associated genes (K1, K2, K5, iucA, and peg‐344) and aminoglycoside resistance (AME) genes (aac (2′)‐Ia, aac (3)‐IIa, aac (3)‐Ib, aac (6′)‐1b, ant (2″)‐Ia, and aph (3″)‐Ib) was investigated by PCR.ResultsThe isolates were mostly resistant to kanamycin (73.8%) and streptomycin (69.3%). The most predominant virulence gene was iucA, observed in 89.8% of isolates, followed by peg‐344 55.7% and K5 14.8%. The most prevalent resistance gene was aph (3″)‐Ib, which was detected in 35.2% of isolates, followed by ant (2″)‐Ia 22.7% and aac (3)‐Ib 17%. In addition, sixteen different patterns of AME genes were observed.ConclusionMost investigated isolates of K. pneumoniae were positive for different virulence‐associated and AME genes and therefore can play a significant role in life‐threatening infections. Meanwhile, resistance rates to aminoglycoside antibiotics were high and it was primarily due to the presence of AME genes such as aph (3″)‐Ib, ant (2″)‐Ia, and aac (3)‐Ib.
Enhancing Melanoma Diagnostic: Harnessing the Synergy of AI and CNNs for Groundbreaking Advances in Early Melanoma Detection and Treatment Strategies
Authors: Sajid Muhammad , Khan Ali Haider , Malik Tauqeer Safdar , Bilal Anas , Ahmad Zohaib , Sarwar Raheem 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTSkin cancer is one of the most prevalent and deadly neoplasms globally. Although melanoma constitutes a minor percentage of all skin cancer types, it presently stands as the primary cause of skin cancer‐related deaths. Previous studies indicate that deep learning algorithms may identify subtle patterns and detailed features in medical images for melanoma detection, however, challenges remain due to the scarcity of annotated images and the intricacy of cancer images. The need for early skin cancer detection, particularly melanoma, is an urgent concern due to its potential for high mortality when not identified and treated promptly. This paper introduces a comprehensive method for melanoma detection in medical images through the incorporation of data augmentation approaches. We employed a CNN model for the categorization of melanoma images with data augmentation techniques such as random horizontal flips, random cropping, grayscale conversion, Gaussian blur, and random perspective transformations. Experiments demonstrate that the suggested method surpasses the existing peak performance in melanoma identification within medical imaging. The results indicate the potential of data augmentation techniques in alleviating the issue of insufficient medical images and improving melanoma detection. We attained an overall accuracy of 93.43%, a sensitivity of 99.74%, and a specificity of 88.53% in melanoma detection, surpassing state‐of‐the‐art approaches with the HAM10000 dataset. Our model is beneficial in clinical settings to aid dermatologists in precisely identifying patients, facilitating early intervention, and potentially preserving lives. In the future, we intend to test our algorithm on more skin cancer datasets that may enhance the accuracy of melanoma diagnosis. A crucial component of the design is the ablation study, which seeks to discover and improve the most significant model parameters for computational efficiency and diagnostic precision. The HAM10000 dataset is utilized for ablation tests to assess and validate the efficacy of the suggested method.
Tailored Functionalization of Plasmonic AgNPs/C:H:N:O Nanocomposite for Sensitive and Selective Detection
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Maskova Hana , Kuzminova Anna , Curda Paval , Doudova Lenka , Sterba Jan , Kylián Ondřej , Rego Ryan O. M. , Straňák Vítězslav 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTWe report here on the development of tailored plasmonic AgNPs/C:H:N:O plasma polymer nanocomposites for the detection of the pathogenic bacterium
Borrelia afzelii
, with high selectivity and sensitivity. Silver (Ag) nanoparticles, generated by a gas aggregation source, are incorporated onto a C:H:N:O plasma polymer matrix, which is deposited by magnetron sputtering of a nylon 6.6. These anchored Ag nanoparticles propagate localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), optically responding to changes caused by immobilized pathogens near the nanoparticles. The tailored functionalization of AgNPs/C:H:N:O nanocomposite surface allows both high selectivity for the pathogen and high sensitivity with an LSPR red‐shift Δλ > (4.20 ± 0.71) nm for 50 Borrelia per area 0.785 cm2. The results confirmed the ability of LSPR modulation for the rapid and early detection of (not only) tested pathogens.
A Miniaturized In Vivo Fluorescence Microscopy Method for Monitoring Circulating Tumor Cells in Freely Moving Animals
Authors: Yu Bingchen , Zhu Yuxi , Zhang Fan , Sun Da , Xu Rui , Wang Chenzheng , Pang Kai 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTMetastasis is the leading cause of death in tumor patients, with circulating tumor cells (CTCs) serving as key biomarkers for tumor progression, metastasis, and recurrence. CTC quantity is closely linked to tumor dynamics, which are influenced by biological rhythms. Studying CTC distribution under various physiological conditions provides insights into metastasis mechanisms. However, due to the low abundance of CTCs, detection accuracy is limited, especially with small blood samples, making continuous data collection challenging. To address this, we developed a dual‐channel miniaturized in vivo fluorescence microscopy system for real‐time monitoring of CTCs in experimental animals. This system, which can be fixed to the head or back, enables dynamic, quantitative analysis of CTCs in the circulatory system. It offers a valuable tool for investigating tumor metastasis rhythms, drug evaluation, and prognostic assessment in freely moving animals, advancing research in metastasis mechanisms and cancer treatment.
Porous Nanocomposite Implants With Gold Nanoparticles for Plastic Surgery
Authors: Korotych Olena , Dybkova Svitlana , Maletskyi Anatolii , Rieznichenko Liudmyla , Kernosenko Liudmyla , Gruzina Tamara , Poltoratska Tetiana , Artiomov Oleksandr , Pasmurtseva Nataliia , Podolska Valentyna , Vorotytskiy Pavlo , Samchenko Yurii 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis study presents an innovative approach to improve implant biointegration and reduce implant‐associated infections using porous poly(vinyl formal) nanocomposite matrices incorporated with gold nanoparticles and antimicrobial/anticancer drugs for plastic surgery applications. The porous matrices were characterized using physicochemical techniques and in vitro biochemical assays. The results demonstrated the biocompatibility of PVF nanocomposites and their potential for functionalization with various bioactive molecules and drugs, thereby enhancing their therapeutic efficacy. In vivo studies in rabbits revealed progressive replacement of implants with fibrous tissue, indicating successful biointegration with the surrounding soft tissues. Future research will focus on the long‐term biocompatibility and functionalization of these nanocomposite implants for plastic surgery and explore their potential in other biomedical applications such as wound healing, tissue engineering, and scaffolds for cell growth and differentiation.
Significant Environmental Factors in the Drift of Electrical Properties in Conductive Nano‐Composite Sensors for Biomechanical Motion‐Tracking
Authors: Bowden Emma E. , Carter Jacob D. , Bowden Anton E. , Mitchell Ulrike H. , Fullwood David T. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTWearable nanocomposite stretch sensors are an exciting new development in biomaterials for biomechanical motion‐tracking technology, with applications in the treatment of low back pain, knee rehabilitation, fetal movement tracking, and other fields. When strained, the resistance of the low‐cost sensors is reduced, enabling human motion to be monitored using a suitable sensor array. However, current sensor technologies have exhibited significant drift, in the form of increased electrical resistance, if left stored in typical room conditions. The purpose of the present work was to evaluate the influence of several environmental factors, including temperature, humidity, oxygen levels, and light exposure, that could impact the change in electrical properties of these sensors. These physiological conditions are present during use of the sensors on human subjects as well as during sensor storage, making it vital to understand their effects on sensor properties. The electromechanical performance of the sensors stored under a range of conditions was monitored over a period of several weeks. The observations obtained indicate that the presence of oxygen and humidity in the environment where the sensors are stored is the primary contributor to drift in the sensor response. Sensors that are kept in de‐oxygenated or desiccated environments do not display an increase in electrical resistance over time. This understanding allows for long‐term storage of the sensors without degradation. It also assists in identifying the internal processes at work within the nanoparticle‐polymer matrix that cause changes in electrical properties.
Corporate Value Creation and the Award of Procurement Contracts
Authors: Ferris Stephen P. , Houston Reza , Rayfield Blake 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis study explores how federal procurement contracts influence shareholder value, revealing a consistent positive correlation between the size of the initial award and investor reactions. We uncover a significant impact of the contract's Sweetheart Index on investor responses, with no‐bid (sole source) contracts, defense contracts, service contracts, and contracts exempt from cost or price reporting requirements attracting stronger investor interest. Notably, we observe significant information leakage around award announcements that affects investor behavior. Through difference‐in‐difference analysis, our findings show that long‐term defense contracts lead to a greater increase in return on equity compared to other large government contracts, as assessed against a matched sample of firms. Additionally, our study highlights that contracts in industries with high concentration and those involving unique goods and services tend to be more lucrative, providing critical insights for investors and policymakers engaged in federal procurement strategies.
Exploring the influence of different vegetable oils on the stability of nanoemulsions in the presence and absence of nisin and limonene
Authors: Giannopoulou Dimitra , Lampropoulou Anastasia , Maragou Myrto , Koliadima Athanasia 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDContamination during food production and handling is a major health concern. Traditional preservation methods often influence food quality as well as their organoleptic characteristics. In contrast, natural alternatives like bacteriocins and essential oils are emerging. Nisin, a natural antimicrobial agent, is effective against Gram‐positive bacteria but not against Gram‐negative bacteria. Moreover, essential oils like limonene, although they have broad antimicrobial properties, are not water‐soluble and affect the sensory properties. Encapsulation in oil‐in‐water nanoemulsions offers a promising approach, enhancing the stability, solubility, and functionality of these natural antimicrobial agents.RESULTSDifferent concentrations of olive, corn, and sesame oils were used in the presence or absence of nisin and limonene. Parameters such as droplet size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and cream index were assessed. Oil type and concentration played a crucial role in the stability and properties of produced nanoemulsions. Sesame oil‐based emulsions showed superior stability, while olive oil‐based emulsions performed well at lower concentrations. Nisin reduced droplet size, while limonene increased it, with combined use yielding intermediate results.CONCLUSIONThe properties and stability of oil‐in‐water nanoemulsions using olive, corn, and sesame oils at varying concentrations, with and without nisin and limonene, were investigated. Sesame oil‐based nanoemulsions exhibited stable droplet size and lower polydispersity index values, while nisin reduced droplet size and limonene increased it. Stability assessments favoured olive oil‐based formulations at low oil concentrations (2% v/v). These findings provide insights into optimizing nanoemulsion formulations for food and pharmaceutical applications. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Understanding Temptation Spending and Saving Behaviour Among Malian Farming Households
Authors: Ölkers Tim , Wahbi Annkathrin , Mußhoff Oliver 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTIn low‐income and food‐insecure households, impulsive purchases of nonessential items, known as temptation spending, can create a cycle of persistent poverty. Using machine learning techniques, we examine the statistical associations between the saving channel and such temptation spending, employing primary data from Malian smallholder farmers. Our findings show that saving with mobile money statistically significantly reduces the probability of temptation spending, while saving with family, friends, or at home increases the probability statistically significantly. Given the rapid expansion of mobile money services in general and in Mali in particular, these results offer crucial insights into how the utilization of mobile money influences an individual's spending behaviour and might contribute to rural resilience and food security.
Human Cytomegalovirus Replication Enhanced By Placental MicroRNAs
Authors: Ikuta Kazufumi , Yajima Misako , Kitamura Hiroshi , Aoki Sorama , Kanda Teru 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTPlacental trophoblasts constitute the interface between the fetal and maternal environments and physically prevent maternal–fetal viral transmission. However, congenital human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection in the early stages of pregnancy results in severe symptoms in the fetus. HCMV is the most common causative agent of intrauterine infection. To clarify the etiology of congenital HCMV infection, we focused on how the placental environment affects HCMV infection. We investigated the role of microRNAs (miRNAs), which are highly and specifically expressed in placental trophoblasts. The transfection of trophoblast‐specific C19MC miRNAs, encoded by the chromosome
19 miRNA
cluster, markedly enhanced HCMV Immediate Early (IE) gene expression and subsequent viral production. However, the expression of the herpes simplex virus type‐1 IE gene was not changed by C19MC‐BAC transfection. From among 46427 mapped genes, we identified that the expression of RAC2, a Rac family small GTPase, was markedly suppressed with an independent genetic hierarchical cluster by C19MC‐BAC transfection. The suppression of RAC2 expression enhanced HCMV IE gene expression. Here, we propose the hypothesis that the placental environment contributes to HCMV‐specific replication via the trophoblast‐specific miRNA‐mediated downregulation of RAC2 expression.