bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
First Experience with the NPseal®: A Novel Mechanically Powered Negative Pressure Dressing Applied to Colorectal Surgery Wounds
Authors: Wang Johnny , Williams Brian , Wlodarczyk Jordan R. , Gupta Abhinav , Kim Debora , Cologne Kyle G. , Koller Sarah E. , Hsieh Christine , Duldulao Marjun P. , Shin Joongho 
Published: December 2024

Background The use of prophylactic closed-incisional negative pressure wound therapy after colorectal procedures has been shown to reduce postoperative wound complications and surgical site infection. We present our experience with a novel, closed-incision, mechanically powered negative pressure (MP-NPD) dressing after colorectal procedures. Methods This was a prospective, single-center, single-arm observational study assessing patient reported and wound healing outcomes of colorectal surgical incisions dressed with a MP-NPD. Consecutive patients, 18 years and older, that met inclusion criteria were enrolled between May 2021 and December 2021. Results Thirty patients were included (13 male/17 female) with a mean age of 62.7 ± 11.8 years and mean body mass index of 25.5 ± 4.4 kg/m2. The mean incision length covered was 3.0 ± 1.8 cm. The median number of manual pinches required to initially activate the dressing with negative pressure within −75 to −125 mmHg was 12 (range 7-20). Four dressings were changed (13.3%) after drainage was noted inside the pump; not including these, 88.5% (23/26) of dressings held pressure consistently without any re-pinching during the 72-h period since they were first applied in the operating room. 75.9% of patients reported the dressing was “very comfortable” and none reported the dressing restricted mobility. 79.3% of patients reported the dressing was “very easy” to use. There were no cases of major wound complication or surgical site infection within 30 days. Conclusion The use of MP-NPD appears to be feasible on primarily-closed colorectal incisions. Further randomized controlled study is warranted to ascertain its clinical efficacy.
Altered intra- and inter-network functional activity among migraine, chronic migraine, and trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Zhou Qichen , Zhao Rong , Qin Zhaoxia , Qi Yapeng , Tang Wenshuang , Liu Lan , Wang Weikan , Liu Jian-Ren , Du Xiaoxia 
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the specific manifestations and differences in brain network activity and functional connectivity between brain networks in patients with trigeminal neuralgia and migraine, aiming to reveal the neural basis of these two diseases. Background: Head and facial pain, including trigeminal neuralgia and migraine, is prevalent globally. However, the underlying neural mechanisms of these conditions remain unclear. Resting-state functional connectivity studies based on independent component analysis (ICA) may offer new insights into these diseases. Methods: The study involved 23 chronic migraine, 37 episodic migraine, 21 trigeminal neuralgia patients, and 33 age- and gender-matched controls. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging was performed, and five sets of brain network components were extracted through ICA. Neuronal activity indicators were calculated for each participant’s independent components, including amplitudes of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo). Functional connectivity was also assessed and compared among the four groups. Results: Trigeminal neuralgia patients showed reduced ALFF in the dorsal attention network versus episodic migraine patients and controls. Both trigeminal neuralgia and chronic migraine patients had decreased ReHo in this network. Migraine patients had weaker connectivity between the default mode and visual networks than controls. Trigeminal neuralgia patients also showed higher connectivity between the somatosensory motor and dorsal attention networks. Compared to episodic migraine, trigeminal neuralgia, and chronic migraine patients had increased connectivity between the visual and dorsal attention networks. Conclusion: The study provides evidence that long-term chronic head and facial pain may contribute to abnormalities in the activation and connectivity of the dorsal attention network. Compared to migraine patients, trigeminal neuralgia patients exhibit abnormal brain network connectivity, particularly within the somatomotor network, which may explain the presence of significant “trigger points.” These findings offer new perspectives for understanding the characteristics of different head and facial pain subtypes.
Extending the time window for tenecteplase by effective reperfusion of penumbral tissue in patients with large vessel occlusion: Rationale and design of a multicenter, prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded-endpoint, controlled phase 3 trial
Authors: Yogendrakumar Vignan , Campbell Bruce CV , Churilov Leonid , Garcia-Esperon Carlos , Choi Philip MC , Cordato Dennis J , Guha Prodipta , Sharma Gagan , Chen Chushuang , McDonald Amy , Thijs Vincent , Mamun Abul , Dos Santos Angela , Balabanski Anna H , Kleinig Timothy J , Butcher Ken S , Devlin Michael J , O’Rourke Fintan , Donnan Geoffrey A , Davis Stephen M , Levi Christopher R , Ma Henry , Parsons Mark W 
Published: December 2024

Rationale: The benefit of tenecteplase in the treatment of large vessel occlusion (LVO) patients presenting within 24 h of symptom onset remains unclear. Aim: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of tenecteplase, compared to standard of care, in patients presenting within the first 24 h of symptom onset with an LVO and target mismatch on perfusion computed tomography (CT). Methods and design: The “Extending the time window for Tenecteplase by Effective Reperfusion of peNumbrAL tissue in patients with Large Vessel Occlusion” (ETERNAL-LVO) trial is a prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded-endpoint, phase 3, parallel-group, superiority trial with covariate-adjusted 1:1 randomization, and adaptive sample size re-estimation. Patients with an anterior circulation LVO stroke, who present within 24 h of stroke onset or last known well with a target mismatch on computed tomography perfusion (CTP) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), will be randomized to tenecteplase (0.25 mg/kg) or standard of care (alteplase 0.90 mg/kg or conservative management at clinician discretion) prior to undergoing endovascular therapy. Study outcomes: The primary outcome is the proportion of patients with a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) of 0–1 (no disability) or return to baseline mRS at 3 months. Secondary and safety outcomes include the proportion of patients with an mRS of 0–2 at 3 months, an ordinal analysis of the mRS at 3 months, the proportion of patients with symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH), the proportion of patients with death due to any cause, and the proportion of patients with mRS 5–6 at 3 months (severe disability or death). Discussion: The ETERNAL-LVO trial will build on the current evidence for tenecteplase in the > 4.5-h window. Specifically, this trial will evaluate tenecteplase in a patient population who have access to endovascular therapy but may incur delays to endovascular therapy commencement or require transfer from a primary to a comprehensive stroke center. Trials registration: ClincialTrials.gov: NCT04454788.
Medication adherence among people living with hypertension and diabetes in Puno, Peru: A secondary analysis of formative data of the ANDES trial
Authors: Acevedo Parker K , Lord Katherine E , Williams Kendra N , Underhill Lindsay J , Cordova-Ascona Lucy , Campos Karina , Cuentas Gonzalo , Gittelsohn Joel , Mendoza Juan C , de las Fuentes Lisa , Hartinger Stella M , Dávila-Román Victor G , Checkley William 
Published: December 2024

Background Hypertension is the leading modifiable risk factor for premature death globally despite the existence of evidence-based and cost-effective treatments. Medication nonadherence is cited as the main cause of treatment failure for hypertension. In Peru, adherence to anti-hypertensive medications of individuals with both hypertension and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is not well studied. The few studies that have investigated differences in anti-hypertensive medication adherence among patients with and without T2D have demonstrated both positive and negative effects. Methods In a cross-sectional study in Puno, Peru, we compared anti-hypertensive medication adherence in individuals with hypertension between those with and without comorbid T2D. The primary outcome was adherence to anti-hypertensive medications as assessed by the Hill-Bone Compliance scale. The primary exposure variable was comorbidity status (i.e., having hypertension and diabetes vs. hypertension alone). Results Of the 204 participants with hypertension (mean age 67 ± 11 years, 60% female), 42 (21%) had comorbid diabetes. Participants with comorbid disease had higher overall anti-hypertensive adherence scores (49.5 ± 2.8 vs. 48.0 ± 4.1 points; p<0.001) and higher medication adherence scores (32.8 ± 2.2 vs. 31.3 ± 3.7 points; p<0.01) when compared to those with hypertension alone. In multivariable regression, comorbid diabetes and monthly income above 250 soles (68 USD) were associated with higher Hill-Bone Compliance scale scores by 1.5 ± 0.7 points (p=0.025) and 2.0 ± 0.7 points (p<0.01), respectively. Conclusions Participants with comorbid hypertension and diabetes exhibited higher adherence to anti-hypertensive medications when compared to those with hypertension alone, suggesting that individuals with comorbid disease are more likely to adhere to anti-hypertensive medications.
IFN-I promotes T-cell–independent immunity and RBC autoantibodies via modulation of B-1 cell subsets in murine SCD
Authors: Su Shan , Bao Weili , Liu Yunfeng , Shi Patricia A. , Manwani Deepa , Murakhovskaya Irina , Campbell-Lee Sally , Lobo Cheryl A. , Mendelson Avital , An Xiuli , Zhong Hui , Yi Woelsung , Yazdanbakhsh Karina 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The pathophysiology of sickle cell disease (SCD) is characterized by hemolytic anemia and vaso-occlusion, although its impact on the adaptive immune responses remains incompletely understood. To comprehensibly profile the humoral immune responses, we immunized SCD mice with T-cell–independent (TI) and T-cell–dependent (TD) antigens (Ags). Our study showed that SCD mice have significantly enhanced type 2 TI (TI-2) immune responses in a manner dependent on the level of type I interferons (IFN-I), while maintaining similar or decreased TD immune responses depending on the route of Ag administration. Consistent with the enhanced TI-2 immune responses in SCD mice, the frequencies of B-1b cells (B-1 cells in humans), a major cell type responding to TI-2 Ags, were significantly increased in both the peritoneal cavity and spleens of SCD mice and in the blood of patients with SCD. In support of expanded B-1 cells, elevated levels of anti–red blood cell (anti-RBC) autoantibodies were detected in both SCD mice and patients. Both the levels of TI-2 immune responses and anti-RBC autoantibodies were significantly reduced after IFN-I receptor (IFNAR) antibody blockades and in IFNAR1–deficient SCD mice. Moreover, the alterations of B-1 cell subsets were reversed in IFNAR1–deficient SCD mice, uncovering a critical role for IFN-I in the enhanced TI-2 immune responses and the increased production of anti-RBC autoantibodies by modulating the innate B-1 cell subsets in SCD. Overall, our study provides experimental evidence that the modulation of B-1 cells and IFN-I can regulate TI immune responses and the levels of anti-RBC autoantibodies in SCD.
An erythroid-specific lentiviral vector improves anemia and iron metabolism in a new model of XLSA
Authors: Castruccio Castracani Carlo , Breda Laura , Papp Tyler E. , Guerra Amaliris , Radaelli Enrico , Assenmacher Charles-Antoine , Finesso Giovanni , Mui Barbara L. , Tam Ying K. , Fontana Simona , Riganti Chiara , Fiorito Veronica , Petrillo Sara , Tolosano Emanuela , Parhiz Hamideh , Rivella Stefano 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
X-linked sideroblastic anemia (XLSA) is a congenital anemia caused by mutations in ALAS2, a gene responsible for heme synthesis. Treatments are limited to pyridoxine supplements and blood transfusions, offering no definitive cure except for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, only accessible to a subset of patients. The absence of a suitable animal model has hindered the development of gene therapy research for this disease. We engineered a conditional Alas2-knockout (KO) mouse model using tamoxifen administration or treatment with lipid nanoparticles carrying Cre-mRNA and conjugated to an anti-CD117 antibody. Alas2-KOBM animals displayed a severe anemic phenotype characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis (IE), leading to low numbers of red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. In particular, erythropoiesis in these animals showed expansion of polychromatic erythroid cells, characterized by reduced oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondria’s function, and activity of key tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes. In contrast, glycolysis was increased in the unsuccessful attempt to extend cell survival despite mitochondrial dysfunction. The IE was associated with marked splenomegaly and low hepcidin levels, leading to iron accumulation in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow and the formation of ring sideroblasts. To investigate the potential of a gene therapy approach for XLSA, we developed a lentiviral vector (X-ALAS2-LV) to direct ALAS2 expression in erythroid cells. Infusion of bone marrow (BM) cells with 0.6 to 1.4 copies of the X-ALAS2-LV in Alas2-KOBM mice improved complete blood cell levels, tissue iron accumulation, and survival rates. These findings suggest our vector could be curative in patients with XLSA.
Genetic predisposition meets cytokine imbalance: the influence of TNF-α (-308) polymorphism and TGF-β levels in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia in Egypt
Authors: Radwan Roqaia E. , El-kholy Wafaa M. , Elsaed Afaf , Darwish Ahmad 
Published: December 2024

AbstractEvading apoptosis fuels the aggressive nature of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This study explored the potential roles of TNF-α, a pro-apoptotic cytokine, and TGF-β, a pro-proliferative factor, in the risk of developing ALL in Egyptian children. We investigated the TNF-α rs1800629 polymorphism and serum TGF-β levels in 100 ALL patients and 100 healthy controls. Notably, specific variations in TNF-α (GA, AA genotypes, and dominant model) were associated with an increased risk of ALL, suggesting impaired apoptosis. Conversely, ALL patients exhibited significantly lower TGF-β levels, potentially promoting uncontrolled proliferation. Our findings suggest that lower TGF-β and the TNF-α (-308) dominant model are associated with an increased risk of ALL. Additionally, TGF-β demonstrated exceptional accuracy (AUC 0.995) as a potential marker, with 100% sensitivity and 96% specificity. These findings suggest that TNF-α and TGF-β may be associated with ALL susceptibility, though further research with larger and more diverse populations is necessary to confirm these results.
Freeze-thaw Effect on the mechanical properties of different wood species: impact of moisture content variations, microscopic morphology, and thermal modification in a selected species
Authors: Asare Stephen , Stoescu Megan , Balmori Luis , Allena Srinivas , Kidando Emmanuel , Owusu-Danquah Josiah 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThis study investigates changes in the mechanical qualities (such as the deformation capacity, compressive strength, and compressive stiffness) of structural timber due to freezing and thawing cycles. Ten (10) specimens, including nine (9) distinct wood species, were assessed, with one from a thermally modified version of a specific species. The findings indicated that by the end of 60 full freeze-thaw cycles, the mechanical qualities had generally deteriorated for all wood species; however, the rate of reduction in these properties varied depending on the type of wood. The maximum reduction of the deformation capacity was evaluated as 16.2% for Iroko, and the lowest was 0.1% for Mahogany. Again, an average decrease of 29.5% was observed in the stiffness of Mahogany, while the least change in the stiffness was 4% for Soft Maple wood. To expound on the possible changes in the wood surface profile and fibers during freeze and thaw cycles of 20, 40, and 60, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis was also conducted. It was observed that the overall fiber density variation, due to the distribution of developed cracks and pores, accounts for the different responses in each complete set of cycles. Some of the wood species showed a progressive decrease in the fiber density from 0 to 60 freeze-thaw cycles, while others exhibited some surging effects. This explains the possibility of some of the wood’s mechanical properties increasing between cycles of freeze-thaw action (before finally reducing). For the first time, the impact of prior thermal treatment on the freeze-thaw resistance of wood was also investigated. It was seen that thermally modified Red Oak showed improved resistance to freeze-thaw in terms of compressive stiffness when compared to untreated Red Oak. However, the deformation capacity and compressive strength declined in the thermally modified wood compared to the untreated wood.
Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia in a Patient With a Mutation in the Insulin Receptor
Authors: Imamovic Marcus , Vågberg Mattias , Cederquist Kristina , Dahlqvist Per 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemias resulting from variants in the insulin receptor (INSR) gene are rare but clinically important disorders. We present a male patient in his 30s, experiencing recurrent postprandial hypoglycemic events. Endocrine evaluation revealed an elevated insulin-to-C-peptide ratio. A hypoglycemia gene panel, using next-generation sequencing, identified a heterozygous nonsense variant in the INSR gene (NM_000208.4) c.3079C &gt; T, p.(Arg1027*). Initial treatment with diazoxide reduced hypoglycemic symptoms and led to weight loss and decreased hemoglobin A1c due to reduced compensatory carbohydrate intake. However, limiting side effects on diazoxide prompted a treatment switch to lanreotide with maintained absence of hypoglycemic events. This case highlights the importance of considering variants in the INSR gene as a differential diagnosis in hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia cases, even in adults.
Mild Congenital Hyperinsulinism Caused by Mutation in Human Glucokinase Gene
Authors: Sozaeva Leila Salikhovna , Ismailova Sabina Kalandarovna , Chernyak Irina Yurievna , Popov Sergey Vladimirovich , Zakharova Victoriya Vitalievna , Chugunov Igor Sergeevich 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) is a rare hereditary disease characterized by the development of hypoglycemia in both infants and adult patients. CHI may be induced by activating mutations in the glucokinase (GCK) gene, which encodes the human glucokinase enzyme. This form of the disease is characterized by considerable phenotypic heterogeneity and may vary in severity of its course. We present a familial case report of mild CHI caused by a novel variant, c.212T &gt; C (p.Val71Ala), in the GCK gene in a 41-year-old mother and a 15-year-old daughter. The clinical picture of hypoglycemia in the patients was not pronounced, which makes this clinical case remarkable. Moreover, a variant of uncertain clinical significance, с.1903G &gt; A (p.Ala635Thr), in the ABCC8 gene was detected, which may also have contributed to the course of the disease in these patients.
Women With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Have Favorable Pregnancy Outcomes but Prolonged Time to Conceive
Authors: Auer Matthias K , Minea Clara E , Quinkler Marcus , Bancos Irina , Beuschlein Felix , Meyer Gesine , Lottspeich Christian , Bidlingmaier Martin , Rieger Eva , Nowotny Hanna F , Tschaidse Lea , Falhammar Henrik , Pivonello Rosario , Simeoli Chiara , Reisch Nicole 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
To study pregnancy outcomes and complications in women with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).

Methods
A retrospective multicenter study was conducted at tertiary reference centers in 5 countries (Austria, Germany, Italy, Sweden, USA), including 72 adult women with CAH (nonclassic [NC] n = 34, simple virilizing [SV] n = 21, salt wasting [SW] n = 17).

Results
A total of 133 pregnancies, 112 live births, and 25 abortions were documented. Prolonged latency to pregnancy was observed (median 11 months in SW, 24 months in SV, 8 months in NC), with a notable use of fertility-enhancing medication (25.6%) and assisted reproductive techniques (30.8%). Over half of the women in each group took more than 12 months to conceive. The average number of live births (1.4-1.6 children per woman) was similar across CAH phenotypes and comparable to the general population. Spontaneous abortion rates (18.0%) were also similar across phenotypes. Primary cesarean section rates (60.9%) were higher than in the general population, though 23.8% of women with SV and 29.4% of women with SW gave birth naturally, despite most having undergone genital surgery. Children categorized as small for gestational age were 20.5%. Pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum complications were rare for mothers and neonates.

Conclusion
The study indicates a prolonged latency to pregnancy and high use of fertility treatments in CAH patients, regardless of phenotype. Abortion rates were not increased, and overall pregnancy and perinatal outcomes were favorable.
Sex Differences in Basal Cortisol Levels Across Body Fluid Compartments in a Cross-sectional Study of Healthy Adults
Authors: Liang Katharine J , Colasurdo Elizabeth A , Li Ge , Shofer Jane B , Galasko Douglas , Quinn Joseph F , Farlow Martin R , Peskind Elaine R 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Context
Many studies have moved toward saliva and peripheral blood sampling for studying cortisol, even in relation to disorders of the brain. However, the degree to which peripheral cortisol reflects central cortisol levels has yet to be comprehensively described. Data describing the effect that biological characteristics such as age and sex have on cortisol levels across compartments is also limited.

Objective
To assess the relationships of cortisol levels across cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), saliva, and plasma (total and free) compartments and describe the effects of age and sex on these relationships.

Design
Multisite cross-sectional observation study.

Setting
Samples collected in academic outpatient settings in 2001-2004.

Patients or Other Participants
Healthy community volunteers (n = 157) of both sexes, aged 20-85 years.

Interventions
None.

Main Outcome Measures
This study was a secondary analysis of data collected from a previously published study.

Results
CSF cortisol correlated more strongly with plasma (r = 0.49, P &lt; .0001) than with saliva cortisol levels. Sex but not age was a significant modifier of these relationships. CSF cortisol levels trended higher with older age in men (R2 = 0.31, P &lt; .001) but not women. Age-related cortisol binding globulin trends differed by sex but did not correlate with sex differences in cortisol levels in any compartment.

Conclusion
Variability in the correlations between central and peripheral cortisol discourages the use of peripheral cortisol as a direct surrogate for central cortisol measures. Further investigation of how mechanistic drivers interact with biological factors such as sex will be necessary to fully understand the dynamics of cortisol regulation across fluid compartments.