bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Persistent liver injury following avacopan discontinuation in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: A rare case of liver biopsy in the chronic phase of liver injury
Authors: Yamaguchi Hiroyuki , Fujii Nayu , Shimizu Hideki 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT
Drug-induced liver injury is a major concern associated with the use of avacopan, a new therapeutic agent for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis. Here, we report a rare instance of liver biopsy performed for persistent liver injury following discontinuation of avacopan in an elderly woman with microscopic polyangiitis. The patient developed cholestatic liver injury after 2 months of avacopan therapy, which led to drug cessation. Despite the discontinuation of avacopan followed by supportive care, the liver enzyme levels remained elevated, necessitating liver biopsy. Histological examination revealed residual inflammation and focal necrosis around the portal vein, indicating ongoing liver injury despite avacopan withdrawal. This case report highlights the hepatotoxic potential of avacopan, the importance of vigilant liver function monitoring, and the value of liver biopsy in the chronic phase of avacopan-induced liver injury. Further research is required to elucidate avacopan hepatotoxicity mechanisms and identify potential risk factors for drug-induced liver injury in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis.
X-ray fluorescence mapping of brain tissue reveals the profound extent of trace element dysregulation in stroke pathophysiology
Authors: Pushie M Jake , Sylvain Nicole J , Hou Huishu , Pendleton Nicole , Wang Richard , Zimmermann Liam , Pally Maxwell , Cayabyab Francisco S , Peeling Lissa , Kelly Michael E 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The brain is a privileged organ with regard to its trace element composition and maintains a robust barrier system to sequester this specialized environment from the rest of the body and the vascular system. Stroke is caused by loss of adequate blood flow to a region of the brain. Without adequate blood flow ischaemic changes begin almost immediately, triggering an ischaemic cascade, characterized by ion dysregulation, loss of function, oxidative damage, cellular degradation, and breakdown of the barrier that helps maintain this environment. Ion dysregulation is a hallmark of stroke pathophysiology and we observe that most elements in the brain are dysregulated after stroke. X-ray fluorescence-based detection of physiological changes in the neurometallome after stroke reveals profound ion dysregulation within the lesion and surrounding tissue. Not only are most elements significantly dysregulated after stroke, but the level of dysregulation cannot be predicted from a cell-level description of dysregulation. X-ray fluorescence imaging reveals that the stroke lesion retains &lt;25% of essential K+ after stroke, but this element is not concomitantly elevated elsewhere in the organ. Moreover, elements like Na+, Ca2+, and Cl− are vastly elevated above levels available in normal brain tissue (&gt;400%, &gt;200%, and &gt;150%, respectively). We hypothesize that weakening of the blood–brain barrier after stroke allows elements to freely diffuse down their concentration gradient so that the stroke lesion is in equilibrium with blood (and the compartments containing brain interstitial fluid and cerebrospinal fluid). The change observed for the neurometallome likely has consequences for the potential to rescue infarcted tissue, but also presents specific targets for treatment.
Smoking cessation and atherosclerotic cardiovascular events and mortality in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Joo Young Su , Yun Hae-Ryoung , Kim Hyung Woo , Koh Hee Byung , Jung Chan-Young , Chang Tae-Ik , Park Jung Tak , Park Sue Kyung , Hyun Young Youl , Kim Yeong Hoon , Sung Suah , Yoo Tae-Hyun , Oh Kook-Hwan , Kang Shin-Wook , Han Seung Hyeok ,   the KNOW-CKD (KoreaN Cohort Study for Outcome in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease) Investigators
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Background
Smoking cessation is recommended to reduce excess atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, this recommendation is largely based on observational studies on the general population Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the association of smoking dose and smoking cessation duration with ASCVD and mortality in patients with CKD.

Methods
We compiled a comprehensive pooled dataset comprising 66 245 participants with CKD from the KNOW-CKD and the UK Biobank cohort. Additionally, we included 307 353 participants without CKD from the UK Biobank cohort. Participants were categorized according to smoking dose and duration of smoking cessation base on a questionnaire. The primary outcome was a composite of ASCVD events or all-cause mortality.

Results
Over a median follow-up period of 13.2 years, 14 671 (22.1%) participants reached the primary outcome. In the pooled CKD cohort, compared to never smokers, and former and current smokers exhibited a 1.30- and 2.14-fold higher risk of the primary outcome, respectively. Among former smokers, the hazard ratios (HRs) (95% confidence intervals [CIs]) for smoking loads &lt;20 and ≥20 pack-years were 1.05 (1.00–1.10) and 2.14 (2.05–2.25), respectively. The increased risk of the primary outcome was attenuated by longer smoking cessation. The HRs (95% CIs) for smoking cessation of &lt;10 years, 10–20 years, and ≥20 years were 1.75 (1.65–1.86), 1.43 (1.34–1.52), and 1.11 (1.06–1.16), respectively, compared with never smokers. This association was also observed in individuals without CKD, but the risk was comparable between former smokers with smoking cessation ≥20 years and non-smokers, suggesting that a longer cessation is required in patients with CKD to offset the smoking-related adverse effects.

Conclusions
Among former smokers with CKD, the risk of ASCVD or mortality was substantially attenuated with less smoking load and a longer duration of smoking cessation.
Establishment of a brain tumor consortium of Africa: Advancing collaborative research and advocacy for brain tumors in Africa
Authors: Odukoya Lateef A , Darko Kwadwo , Zerd Francis , Ghomsi Nathalie C , Kabare Gloria , Kamson David O , Eckel-Passow Jeanette E , Jenkins Robert B , Kitange Gaspar J , Akinjo Andrea O , Badmos Kabir B , Bankole Olufemi , Idowu Olufemi E , Karekezi Claire , Edrick Elias , Ekhator Chukwuyem , Katasi Victoria M , Brown Desmond A , Huse Jason , Llewellyn Henry , Magambo Margreth , Magoha Michael , Barrie Umaru , Ngaiza Advera , Nyalundja Arsene D , Okemwa Minda , Osei-Tutu Lawrence , Petershie Bernard , Yevudza W Elorm , Anunobi Charles C , Tiamiyu Liadi , Gankpe Gbetoho Fortuné , Heronima Kashaigili , Higgins Dominique , Schroeder Kristin , Totimeh Teddy , Balogun James , Cheserem Beverly , Etame Arnold B , Fonkem Ekokobe 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Brain tumors represent a significant global health challenge, with rising incidence and mortality impacting individuals worldwide and contributing to cancer-related morbidity and mortality. In Africa, this burden is exacerbated by limited access to advanced diagnostics, treatment options, and multidisciplinary care, compounded by the absence of standardized cancer registration and tumor biobanking. The introduction of molecular diagnostics, as outlined in the 2021 World Health Organization central nervous system (CNS) tumor classification, adds complexity to brain tumor management, particularly in regions with scarce resources.

Methods
To address these issues, the Brain Tumor Consortium for Africa (BTCA) was established in 2023, bringing together experts to improve CNS tumor diagnosis, patient care, and research. The initial project, conducted via an electronic questionnaire, aimed to assess neuro-oncology capacity across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Results
The study revealed significant gaps, with a limited number of institutions incorporating molecular subtyping into their diagnostic algorithms. The consortium’s efforts focus on enhancing local data use, informing public policy, and promoting collaboration to advance neuro-oncology practices in Africa. By fostering a network enlisting the expertise of collaborators in the fields of neurosurgery, neurology, neuropathology, anatomic pathology, and medical and radiation oncology, the BTCA seeks to improve brain tumor management through better diagnostics, infrastructure, and policy advocacy. Future directions include expanding molecular diagnostic capabilities, standardizing brain tumor biobanking, enhancing data collection, and advocating for improved brain tumor care in national health agendas.

Conclusions
The BTCA represents a pioneering model of collaboration and innovation in addressing the unique challenges of brain tumor care in Africa.
Deep learning-based postoperative glioblastoma segmentation and extent of resection evaluation: Development, external validation, and model comparison
Authors: Cepeda Santiago , Romero Roberto , Luque Lidia , García-Pérez Daniel , Blasco Guillermo , Luppino Luigi Tommaso , Kuttner Samuel , Esteban-Sinovas Olga , Arrese Ignacio , Solheim Ole , Eikenes Live , Karlberg Anna , Pérez-Núñez Ángel , Zanier Olivier , Serra Carlo , Staartjes Victor E , Bianconi Andrea , Rossi Luca Francesco , Garbossa Diego , Escudero Trinidad , Hornero Roberto , Sarabia Rosario 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
The pursuit of automated methods to assess the extent of resection (EOR) in glioblastomas is challenging, requiring precise measurement of residual tumor volume. Many algorithms focus on preoperative scans, making them unsuitable for postoperative studies. Our objective was to develop a deep learning-based model for postoperative segmentation using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We also compared our model’s performance with other available algorithms.

Methods
To develop the segmentation model, a training cohort from 3 research institutions and 3 public databases was used. Multiparametric MRI scans with ground truth labels for contrast-enhancing tumor (ET), edema, and surgical cavity, served as training data. The models were trained using MONAI and nnU-Net frameworks. Comparisons were made with currently available segmentation models using an external cohort from a research institution and a public database. Additionally, the model’s ability to classify EOR was evaluated using the RANO-Resect classification system. To further validate our best-trained model, an additional independent cohort was used.

Results
The study included 586 scans: 395 for model training, 52 for model comparison, and 139 scans for independent validation. The nnU-Net framework produced the best model with median Dice scores of 0.81 for contrast ET, 0.77 for edema, and 0.81 for surgical cavities. Our best-trained model classified patients into maximal and submaximal resection categories with 96% accuracy in the model comparison dataset and 84% in the independent validation cohort.

Conclusions
Our nnU-Net-based model outperformed other algorithms in both segmentation and EOR classification tasks, providing a freely accessible tool with promising clinical applicability.
Integrated multi-omics characterization across clinically relevant subgroups of long COVID
Authors: Ai Jingwen , Guo Jingxin , Lin Ke , Cai Jianpeng , Zhang Haocheng , Zhu Feng , Sun Gangqiang , Xue Quanlin , Zhu Kun , Yang Yixuan , Yuan Guanmin , Song Jieyu , Fu Zhangfan , Qi Xiao , Sun Yuhan , Lin Weifang , Qiu Chao , Jiang Ning , Wang Sen , Zhang Wenhong 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
With SARS-CoV-2 became regional epidemics, substantial amount of patients suffers from post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC, aka long COVID). Exploring the pathogenesis and especially the heterogenicity features of long COVID subgroups is of paramount importance for etiology understandings. In this study, through integrative multi-omics analyses encompassing transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, long COVID patients exhibited overall elevated MAPK pathway activation, while patients recovered from long COVID showed down-regulation of this response. Long COVID heterogenicity is described by multi-omics distinct signatures for each subgroup. Multisystemic (MULTI) symptoms subgroup is characterized by enhanced glycerophospholipid and ether lipid metabolism, Neurological (NEU) by augmented glycoprotein synthesis metabolism, Cardio cerebral (CACRB) by increased pyruvate metabolism and suppressed macrophage polarization, Musculoskeletal + Systemic (MSK + SYST) by elevated glycerophospholipid metabolism, and Cardiopulmonary (CAPM) by inhibited NF-κB signaling pathways. ABHD17A, CSNK1D, PSME4 and SYVN1 were general long COVID combination biomarkers, while CRH (MULTI), FPGT (NEU), CBX6 (CACRB) and RBBP4 (CAPM) were selected as serum-specific subgroup proteins. Our study provides commonly shared and distinct pathophysiology explanation underpinning PASC, paving the way for the future diagnosis and therapeutic interventions.
A History of Interdisciplinarity in Archaeology
Authors: Kristiansen Kristian 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The history of interdisciplinarity in archaeology is traced through three major science revolutions: the Darwinian revolution and the formation of archaeology; the C14 revolution and the formation of absolute chronologies; and the genetic revolution and its impact on the mobility and migration of human genes. Each of these revolutions provided new science-based evidence, independent of archaeological evidence, and thus expanded the knowledge base of archaeology. The chapter outlines historical process of the three revolutions and their impact on archaeological method and theory, showing both commonalities and divergencies. Each revolution created theoretical and interpretative responses, moving the discipline forward. Archaeology is, thus, a creative, borrowing discipline. Throughout its history, it has successfully applied many methods and theories from a variety of disciplines, ranging from social anthropology, history, and philosophy to various branches of science, including geology, zoology, physics, and genetics.
Foreign Schools in the Mediterranean in Historical Perspective
Authors: Whitling Frederick 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This chapter outlines the history and organization of national “foreign schools,” research institutes primarily in Italy and Greece, from the early nineteenth century onwards. It presents a critical discussion of the emergence and evolution of foreign schools in both national and international terms, with national funding and prestige at stake in the internationalism of the scientific world, in scholarly communities and in international politics. From the perspective of the history of archaeology, the chapter also discusses the role of the foreign schools in the global organization of the study of antiquity, scholarship, and journals, as well as in the accumulation of European (and American) museum collections. It also emphasizes the role of foreign schools in the development of research networks and power relationships in academia, as well as in relation to legislation and the appropriation of archaeological artifacts.
Museums of Archaeology
Authors: Martins Ana Cristina 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This chapter delves into the rich history of archaeological collecting, the creation and development of archaeological museums, and museums with significant archaeological collections. It explores how the production of archaeological knowledge and heritage has been intricately shaped by the evolution of these collections, influenced by scientific advancements, ideological and political agendas—often nationalist—and the growing tourist industry. These ongoing shifts have prompted new perspectives on territories and communities, necessitating continuous updates to museum narratives to remain relevant and engaging. The chapter emphasizes the bidirectional relationship between archaeological collections and the societies they represent, as seen in the varied textual and iconographic narratives in these museums. By thoroughly reviewing key aspects of this extensive history, particularly in Europe, the chapter aims to provide deep and nuanced insight into the European context, which is essential for understanding the broader, interconnected world we inhabit.
Archaeology and Orientalism
Authors: Marchand Suzanne 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This chapter argues that Edward Said’s conception of “orientalism” is an inadequate lens through which to understand the history of European archaeological engagements in the Near East, South Asia, and East Asia. First, Europeans did not think of the “Orient” as entirely Other; as Christians, they knew their own civilization had originated in the Near East. Second, Said does not appreciate the important relationships between oriental scholarship and the interpretation of the Bible, and the deep ways in which Europeans after the Reformation were inclined to seek texts rather than objects in the East. Third, long before the great age of empire-founding, Europeans had already adopted aesthetic norms which inclined them to treat Asian artifacts as the monstrous or curious rather than beautiful. All of these factors shaped European collecting habits even before the founding of the Continent’s major public museums and the birth of archaeology proper. Understanding these factors allows for a deeper grasp of the unfolding of the various antiquities rushes during the period of Europe’s imperial dominance; it also permits us to see how much the collecting of previously little-appreciated “oriental” artifacts actually did disrupt long-held prejudices and prepared the way for multicultural understandings.
The History of the Influence of Free Market Economics on Archaeology
Authors: Tomlinson Peter Colin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This chapter examines historical evolution of economic theories in relation to archaeological patrimony and explains the concepts and methodologies that economists apply to the subject. Economic considerations have become increasingly important when decisions are taken over the allocation of scarce resources for the preservation and conservation of archaeological remains. A whole new field of study called cultural economics has emerged to allow economists to assess the value, both cultural and economic, that they would assign to archaeological sites and artifacts. The chapter explores the history of growing international trade in antiquities, both legal and illicit, along with the history and impact of the growth in cultural tourism and the role of the UNESCO World Heritage List in promoting such tourism. The chapter explains how tourism, though providing economic benefits, also threatens fragile archaeological sites with destruction and can lead to the commodification and appropriation of heritage.
A History of Historical Archaeology
Authors: Orser Charles E. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This chapter explores the history of historical archaeology using research on colonialism as an example. The overview shows that the discipline has transitioned from an exclusive focus on Europeans to a more inclusive perspective that also investigates African, Indigenous, and descendant communities’ histories. The growth of historical archaeology has meant that today’s field, with its diverse subjects and perspectives, is an exciting pursuit practiced throughout the world. Since the late 1960s, historical archaeology in eastern North America has shifted from a narrow focus on European-built settlements to a broader, more inclusive approach. Initially, the discipline largely ignored Indigenous and African peoples, with theories centered on acculturation. As the field matured, it began embracing diverse voices, leading to more nuanced interpretations of cultural interactions. Researchers increasingly explored Native perspectives and descendant communities, while European settlements were reinterpreted with greater sensitivity. International growth further enhanced the discipline’s theoretical robustness, with colonialism as a central, though not exclusive, focus.
Cerberus, Hound of Hades
Authors: Joyce Derrek 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Despite evidence of the hound of Hades first appearing in the written record as early as Hesiod’s Theogony, the impact Cerberus has had on the imagination of his audiences resonates even now, with the beast still making appearances in various forms of media. By examining his role in classical mythology, both through etymological and more biological lenses, as well as following the narratives in which he is featured through the Roman imperial period, it is possible to gain an understanding of not only how he became less monstrous over time, but also why. Cerberus’ primary roles as the guard dog of the underworld and as an obstacle for a great hero to face prove to be rather functional, mirroring his fantastical properties. Not only this, but his actions often lend themselves to comparisons with the house pets with which both ancient and modern audiences would be incredibly familiar.
Down the Sinkhole
Authors: Deacy Susan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This chapter traces the Hydra as a serpentine, many-headed creature born at the gates of the underworld beneath a plane tree in the marshlands of Lerna. It explores the Hydra’s origins among the array of uncanny creatures in Hesiod and notes the enduring popularity of the Hydra as a metaphor for any seemingly insurmountable problem. It notes too the quest to solve the ‘problem’ of what the Hydra was through rationalizing explanations, most recently those concerning drainage efforts in the Argive plain. It examines the Hydra as the Hera-nourished foe decapitated by Heracles whose venom ultimately fatally poisons the hero. Conversely, it examines how, rather than behaving like an animal, who would die when decapitated, the Hydra flourishes like—or as—a coppiced tree. The chapter considers how far, like the monster as proposed by J. J. Cohen, the Hydra eludes classification and keeps returning.
Cyclopes
Authors: Aguirre Mercedes , Buxton Richard 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This chapter investigates the monstrosity, both physiological and behavioural, of the Cyclopes. The principal focus is on antiquity, though a concluding section discusses modern reception. There were three main types of Cyclopes: the monumental builders, the weapons-making metalworkers, and the pastoral ogres, notably Polyphemus. The builders were incredibly strong, but virtually never characterized as monstrous. The metalworkers were sometimes depicted as monstrous, as in Hesiod and Callimachus. The pastoral ogres were repeatedly represented as monstrous, though their monstrosity varies greatly from Homer and Euripides to Vergil and Ovid. In ancient art there were again wide variations: from muscular and handsome to wild and anthropophagous. The eye(s), in particular, is/are a locus of variability: ancient Cyclopes are not always monocular. In post-classical reception, the variability continues, with one major exception: it eventually becomes unthinkable—especially in cinema and the visual arts—that any creature called a Cyclops should have more than one eye. Thus the rich complexity of the ancient tradition is reduced to singularity.