bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reduced Folate Carrier 1 (RFC1/Slc19a1) Suppression Exacerbates Blood-Brain Barrier Breakdown in Experimental Ischemic Stroke in Adult Mice
Authors: Gurler Gokce , Bozanoglu Dilan , Leon Christelle , Belder Nevin , Sever‐Bahcekapili Melike , Bolbos Radu , Karatas Hulya , Wiart Marlene , Chauveau Fabien , Yemisci Muge , Soylu Kadir Oguzhan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The Reduced Folate Carrier 1 (RFC1), also called solute carrier family 19 member 1 (SLC19A1/SLC19a1), is recognized for transporting folates across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). RFC1 has recently been defined as a hypoxia-immune related gene whose expression levels were induced by acute retinal ischemia, suggesting that RFC1 may have a role in the response of the brain to ischemic injury. Despite a recent human meta-analysis suggesting an association between certain RFC1 polymorphisms and the risk of silent brain infarctions, preclinical evidence concerning the potential role of RFC1 in acute ischemic stroke has yet to be presented. To investigate this, we first characterized RFC1 protein expression in mouse microvessels and pericytes which play significant roles in stroke pathophysiology. Then, we examined the temporal (1-h, 24-h, and 48-h) and spatial (infarct, periinfarct, contralateral) expression of RFC1 protein in the intraluminal transient middle cerebral artery occlusion mouse model. Finally, we knocked down RFC1 protein with RFC1-siRNA in the potential periinfarct region before induction of ischemia and investigated BBB integrity and infarct size in vivo via 7T-MRI. Moreover, we utilized a pharmacological modulation -methotrexate, a non-covalent inhibitor of RFC1- to further investigate the role of RFC1 in maintaining BBB integrity. Our study revealed that, i) RFC1 protein levels were dynamic throughout the acute phases of ischemic stroke, ii) RFC1 suppression aggravated the BBB leakage during ischemia. These results emphases the role of RFC1 in the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke and supports the evidence from human studies.
Microglia aggregates define distinct immune and neurodegenerative niches in Alzheimer's disease hippocampus.
Authors: Fixemer Sonja , Maza Mónica Miranda de la , Hammer Gaël Paul , Jeannelle Félicia , Schreiner Sophie , Gérardy Jean-Jacques , Mechawar Naguib , Mittelbronn Michel , Bouvier David S. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

In Alzheimer's disease (AD), microglia show strong associations with amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau pathology, forming cellular aggregates such as Aβ plaque-associated microglia (PaM). Using high-content neuropathology, we found another type of microglial aggregates, morphologically distinct and not associated with Aβ plaques, mainly localised in the pyramidal layer of the CA2/CA1 human hippocampal subfields of AD patients, namely Coffin-like microglia (CoM). This study aims to define the morphological, pathological and molecular signatures of hippocampal PaM and CoM in AD patients and their implication in disease progression. We mapped and profiled PaM, CoM and their neuropathological and astrocytic microenvironment using Nanostring GeoMx Deep Spatial Profiling (DSP), multiplex chromogenic and confocal microscopy in AD hippocampal post-mortem samples. Key markers and results were validated in a collection of AD, DLB and age-matched control samples. CoM, found attached to tau tangles and neurons with phosphorylated α-synuclein accumulations, displayed specific protein and transcriptomic signatures associated with STING, protein degradation, TGF-β, and NF-κB signalling pathways. In contrast, PaM and PaM-astrocyte signatures were associated with complement system pathways, ErbB signalling, metabolic and neurodegenerative activities. While no direct association of CD8 + T cells with either PaM or CoM was observed, CD163 + perivascular macrophages were frequently found incorporated into PaM. This study provides new insights into the molecular characteristics of microglia and their association with astrocytes and infiltrating immune cells to delineate specific neurodegenerative hotspots in AD and related dementia and highlights their prominent role in hippocampal deterioration.
Unravelling the decision matrix: factors shaping small-scale aquaculture sustainability and choice of interventions in Lake Victoria basin communities, Uganda
Authors: Byabasaija Syliver , Limuwa Moses , semyalo Ronald 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Fishing is crucial for food security and economic stability in Uganda, supporting over 1.8 million people. However, unsustainable practices and declining fish stocks threaten livelihoods, necessitating strategic interventions in small-scale aquaculture. This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing small-scale aquaculture intervention choices among farmers in the Lake Victoria Basin. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving a cross-sectional survey conducted across three purposively selected districts: Buikwe, Wakiso, and Mpigi. Data were collected from 169 respondents in November 2023 using quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Data were analyzed using STATA and thematic methods, including multinomial logistic regression to examine choice patterns of pond farming (69.6%), cage farming (22.8%), and aquaponics (7.6%). The findings reveal a significant male predominance (83.6%) among fish farmers and highlight that education level, household size, and location and resource access influence small scale aquaculture intervention choice. Specifically, higher education levels were associated with a greater likelihood of choosing cage farming and aquaponics, while larger household sizes influenced preferences for pond farming due to resource allocation dynamics and limited access to resources constrains aquaculture diversification. To promote sustainable aquaculture, it is essential to implement programs aimed at empowering women, developing educational initiatives to enhance farmers' knowledge, and improving access to financial services. Additionally, advocating for supportive policy frameworks is critical for ensuring that aquaculture development in Uganda is sustainable and responsive to community needs.
PD-1/L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors for KRAS-mutant non-small cell lung cancer: a multicenter retrospective real-world study
Authors: Wei Kunchen , Sun Tiansheng , Feng Xiao , Chen Yang , Liu Qingzhong , Tang Hao 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
KRAS (Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog) gene mutation is one of the common driver gene mutations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with poor prognosis. There are limited effective treatments for advanced NSCLC patients with KRAS mutation. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PD-1/L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as a first-line immunotherapy for advanced NSCLC patients harboring KRAS oncogene mutation.
Methods
This multicenter retrospective real-world study was conducted from 2019 to 2024 at Shanghai Changzheng Hospital and Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, including 78 patients who received immunotherapy using PD-1/L1 ICIs, and 29 patients who received traditional platinum-doublet chemotherapy. Their Clinical outcomes and prognostic factors for advanced NSCLC patients with KRAS oncogene mutation were analyzed.
Results
No significant difference in the objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) was observed between the two groups. The median progression-free survival (PFS) in immunotherapy group was longer than that in chemotherapy group [7.9 months (95% CI: 5.3–10.5) vs. 6.0 months (95% CI: 3.8–8.2), P = 0.030].
Conclusion
The first-line treatment with PD-1/PD-L1 ICIs showed numerically better clinical efficacy than the traditional double-agent chemotherapy in patients with KRAS-mutated NSCLC, especially in PFS. Additionally, PD-L1 expression, C reactive protein, CEA, and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio could serve as markers for predicting the efficacy of immunotherapy in patients with KRAS-mutated NSCLC.
Application of neck/chest CT to establish the evaluation perforation model of esophageal foreign body
Authors: Zhai Jianhua , Meng Haohao , Tang Sha , Zhang Yining , Guo Ruichang , Lin Lin , Wu Chao , Guo Ying , Wang Bangmao 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective:Establish a predictive model with the perforation risk of esophageal foreign bodies (EFBs)--jujube pit, based on the structure of jujube pit and the relevant diameter of neck/chest computed tomography (CT).
Methods: A 6-year retrospective study enrolled 162 patients from November 2016 and October 2021, who were diagnosed as esophageal foreign bodies with jujube pits, proved by neck/chest CT and endoscopy. Clinical characters contained age, gender, and the time from ingestion to perforation. Neck/chest CT were collected for analysis. Those patients with incomplete clinical data or no imaging data have been eliminated. The jujube pit section (Intermediate Sheet Separator) has been stretched to maximum after 3D reconstruction, the longest diameter of jujube pit is defined as jujube pit size. The impaction angle was the angle between the longest diameter and the esophagus wall. Multifactor logistic regression and Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were used to calculate the predictive model of perforation risk of jujube pits.
Results:
There are 48 cases complicated with perforation among the 162 cases with complete data. Patients in the perforated group had higher age, jujube pit size and impaction angle than those in the non-perforated group (P<0.05). Multifactorial logistic regression analysis showed that patients age, jujube pit size, impaction angle were the risk factors for concomitant perforation in patients with EFBs (OR=0.926, 95%Cl: 0.886-0.968, P=0.001; OR=0.075, 95%Cl: 0.020-0.281, P=0.000; OR=0.926, 95%Cl: 0.899-0.954, P=0.000) and based on this result the regression equation of the risk assessment model was established Logit(p)=15.919-0.077*patients age-2.586*jujube pit size-0.077*impaction angle. ROC curve analysis revealed that the areas under the ROC curve (AUC) values of patient age, jujube pit size, impaction angle and comprehensive prediction model were 0.65,0.73,0.82 and 0.89, with a sensitivity of 54%,79%,92% and 81%, and a specificity of 68%,58%,68% and 82%, respectively.
Conclusion:
In patients with EFBs, those who experienced perforation were significantly older and had larger jujube pit sizes and greater impaction angles compared to those without perforation. These factors were identified as risk factors for the development of perforation in EFBs patients. A risk assessment model that incorporates these variables can effectively predict the likelihood of perforation.
An original strategy to promote Sleeping Sickness diagnostic participation in Guinea: How did the Football World Cup 2022 help to target the refractory young male population during an active screening Door-to-Door survey?
Authors: Gassama Mohamed , Camara Oumou , Soumah Aissata , Kagbadouno Moise , Vedovi François-Xavier Bart , Courtin Fabrice , Bucheton Bruno , Camara Mamadou , Bessell Paul , Bart Jean-Mathieu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of sensitization events targeting young males to improve their participation in active screening campaigns for Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), also known as sleeping sickness, in Guinea. Despite progress towards eliminating HAT as a public health problem, challenges remain in detecting the last remaining cases, particularly among individuals, especially young men, who work in mangroves and are highly exposed to the tsetse fly vector.
Method. During the 2022 Football World Cup, coinciding with a door-to-door screening campaign in the Boffa focus of Guinea, football matches were used as an opportunity to sensitize the population. Twenty-seven villages were selected for screening, and four villages with recently diagnosed HAT cases were chosen to broadcast World Cup matches followed by a 30-minute sensitization movie about HAT in the local language. Demographic data were collected using an Open Data Kit system.
Results. The results indicated significant interest in the sensitization events, with over 500 attendees at all during the four days of broadcasting. A comparison of participation rates between World Cup villages (WCV) and non-WCV villages showed a higher proportion of males aged 8 to 27 participating in the WCV (17.7%) compared to non-WCV villages (14.6%). This difference was not observed for females of the same age group. Furthermore, compared to data from the previous year, there was an increase in the relative participation of young males from 16.4% to 19.6%.
Conclusion. Innovative strategies, such as using football matches for sensitization, are essential for reaching at-risk populations and identifying remaining HAT cases. Football holds significant cultural and social importance in Guinean villages, making it an effective platform for HAT sensitization efforts. Scaling up such strategies could further enhance awareness and participation in screening campaigns, ultimately aiding in the elimination of HAT transmission.
Identifying Factors that Influence Pediatric Echo Lab Image Quality: Development and Validation of a New Assessment Tool
Authors: Hill Garick D. , Hahn Eunice , Block Joseph R. , Chaves Alicia H. , Cumbermack Kristopher , Lipinski Joan , Natarajan Shobha , Parra David A. , Robinson Joshua D. , Soriano Brian D. , Walsh Michael J. , Seo JangDong , Frommelt Peter 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
No method of evaluating transthoracic echocardiograms (TTE) image quality (IQ) has been validated. Furthermore, structural echo lab elements impacting IQ are unknown. We sought to develop and validate a TTE IQ grading tool and determine patient and echo lab features associated with IQ.
Methods
Ten pediatric echo labs each submitted 50 consecutive new patient TTEs without complex heart disease. For each study, 3 sonographers independently rated IQ and performed routine measurements. IQ scoring used the American College of Cardiology Quality Network (ACC QNet) tool plus a novel echo IQ tool. IQ scores were validated against the ability to make measurements and, when all measurements were made, variation between sonographers. After validation, patient and lab factors, from a previously published survey, associated with improved TTE IQ were determined by linear regression.
Results
Total IQ score (R2 = 0.64), ACC QNet (R2 = 0.29) and the novel IQ component (R2 = 0.52) correlated with the total number of measurements made (p < 0.001). For the 236 (52%) TTEs with all measurements, the novel IQ component (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.82–0.99, p = 0.037) was associated with lower measurement variability. Factors significantly associated with worse novel IQ scores were higher patient weight, performance by a traveling sonographer, lower annual and inpatient TTE volume, less dedicated teaching/administrative sonographer time, and full-day sessions for reading physicians.
Conclusions
A novel TTE IQ scoring tool was created and validated for pediatric TTE. Modifiable structural components of echo labs associated with TTE IQ were identified. This novel IQ tool should guide IQ beyond the ACC QNet score.
A role for DICAM+ mononuclear phagocytes in controlling neuroinflammation in multiple sclerosis
Authors: von Essen Marina Rode , Hansen Marie Mathilde , Mahdaoui Sahla El , Hvalkof Victoria Hyslop , Hansen Malene Bredahl , Buhelt Sophie , Sellebjerg Finn 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). In MS, CNS-infiltrating monocytes differentiate to tissue resident macrophages which are found in large numbers within the injured areas of the brain where they play a central role in driving disease progression through demyelination and tissue destruction. However, infiltrating monocytes and their derivative macrophages can also serve protective functions. In this study we investigated a possible role of intrathecal mononuclear phagocytes (infiltrating monocytes and macrophages) expressing dual immunoglobulin domain-containing cell adhesion molecule (DICAM) in neuroinflammation. Compared to symptomatic controls, treatment-naïve patients with relapsing-remitting MS had a reduced prevalence of DICAM+ mononuclear phagocytes in CSF. When patients were treated with natalizumab, an antibody blocking migration of blood leukocytes to the CNS, we observed that DICAM+ monocytes were still recruited to the CSF and that the level of soluble DICAM (sDICAM) in CSF was significantly increased compared to untreated patients. sDICAM and the prevalence of DICAM+ mononuclear phagocytes in CSF furthermore correlated negatively with concentrations of various cytokines, including TNFa. Analysing the functional properties of DICAM showed that LPS-induced TNFa-production in mononuclear phagocytes was effectively reduced by signalling through surface-bound DICAM. This discovery, together with the observation of a high prevalence of infiltrating DICAM+ mononuclear phagocytes in individuals with no disease or in which disease was kept under control, suggests an immunomodulatory role of DICAM+ mononuclear phagocytes. Also, DICAM can engage in homophilic interaction with DICAM on other cells, suggesting that the increased intrathecal sDICAM of natalizumab-treated patients may help regulate inflammation in a paracrine way. Overall, our data suggest that DICAM+ mononuclear phagocytes play a role in controlling neuroinflammation.
Open Versus Endoscopic Surgery with Helmet Molding Therapy in Non-syndromic Patients with Craniosynostosis: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Outcomes and Treatment-Related Costs
Authors: Ortega-Ruiz Omar R. , Torres-Martínez Mauricio , Villafranca-Cantú Mariana , Ávila-Cañedo Rebeca Alejandra , PiñeyroCantú Emilio , Menchaca-Welsh Eduardo , Shimony Nir , Jallo George I. , Terrazo-Lluch Javier , Cuéllar-Hernández J. Javier 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective There is an ongoing debate regarding the optimal treatment for craniosynostosis as diverse factors influence the election between endoscopic and open surgery. Previous evidence favors endoscopic procedures; However, evidence remains unfulfilled by a limited number of patients and clustered in very few centers worldwide making it difficult to define it as a replicable technique in different populations. In recent years, evidence regarding endoscopic-assisted procedures has gone through a considerable spurt showing an increased interest among surgeons globally showing optimal outcomes in different populations and centers. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we performed an updated analysis of previous reviews, including only non-syndromic patients. We also seek to provide a summary of the tendency of treatment observed in the literature. Similarly, this is the first study to include total costs within its analysis.
Material and Methods Three previous meta-analyses published in 2018 yielded 11 eligible papers. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature in MEDLINE and EMBASE databases through PubMed, Scopus, and Ovid to fill the gap of information between 2018 and 2024. 23 total articles were included in the final analysis.
Results Variables analyzed were baseline characteristics, length of stay, blood loss, transfusion rates and volume, operative time, and costs. Analysis of data concluded a younger age at surgery in patients undergoing endoscopic surgery (p= <0.00001). Blood loss, transfusion rates, and volumes depicted favored outcomes for endoscopy with less blood loss during surgery (p = <0.00001), operative time (p=<0.00001), and transfusion rates (p=<0.00001) as well as lower transfused volumes (p = <0.00001).
Conclusion Endoscopic surgery carries fewer complications than open surgery. Treatment-related costs are highly decreased in endoscopic procedures after including costs related to outpatient care. Open surgery can be considered in older children if no endoscope or experienced surgeons in endoscopic procedures are available.
Post-stroke Central Neuropathic Pain: Prevalence and Associated Risks Factors
Authors: Yacouba Yacouba MAPOURE NJANKOUO , MAGNEROU Annick Melanie , Njoya Ahmed Vessah , Massi Daniel Gams , Kenmegne Caroline , Tegueu Callixte Kuate 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Stroke can lead to complications such as post-stroke central neuropathic pain (PSCNP), which is often underdiagnosed in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Objective: to determine the frequency and predicting factors of PSCNP at the Douala General Hospital.
Methods: This hospital-based, cross-sectional analytic study was conducted in the neurology unit from January 1 to May 31, 2019. Two patient groups were included: Group 1 (stroke+), consisting of confirmed stroke patients with a stroke onset of over one month, no PSCNP symptoms prior to the stroke, and no other causes of central or peripheral neuropathic pain; and Group 2 (stroke-), comprising patients with no history of stroke, matched by age, sex, and cerebrovascular risk factors with Group 1. The “Douleur neuropathique 4” (DN4) questionnaire was used to diagnose PSCNP. Logistic regression was performed to identify PSCNP predictors.
Results: A total of 301 patients (100 stroke+ and 201 stroke-) were included. The prevalence of PSCNP was 27% in stroke+ and 8.95% in stroke- [p <0.001; OR = 3.760; 95% CI: 1.953-7.241]. Independent predictors of PSCNP were alcoholism [p = 0.001, OR = 9.704, 95% CI = 2.630 - 35.805], hemorrhagic stroke [p = 0.003, OR = 8.534, 95% CI = 2.068 - 35.214], and obesity [p = 0.001, OR = 9.324, 95% CI = 2.487 - 34.963].
Conclusion: Stroke increases the risk of developing PSCNP by fourfold. Alcohol use, hemorrhagic stroke, and obesity are significant predictors and should be carefully monitored in PSCNP assessments.
Sub-nanosecond all-optically reconfigurable photonics in optical fibres
Authors: Ji Kunhao , Richardson David , Wabnitz Stefan , Guasoni Massimiliano 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

We introduce a novel all-optical platform in multimode and multicore fibres. By using a low-power probe beam and a high-power counter-propagating control beam, we achieve advanced and dynamic control over light propagation within the fibres. This setup enables all-optical reconfiguration of the probe, which is achieved by solely tuning the control beam power. Key operations such as fully tuneable power splitting and mode conversion, core-to-core switching and combination, along with remote probe characterization, are demonstrated at the sub-nanosecond time scale. Our experimental results are supported by a theoretical model that extends to fibres with an arbitrary number of modes and cores. The implementation of these operations in a single platform underlines its versatility, a critical feature of next-generation photonic systems. These results represent a significant shift from existing methods that rely on electro-optical or thermo-optical modulation for tunability. They pave the way towards a fast and energy-efficient alternative through all-optical modulation, a keystone for the advancement of future reconfigurable optical networks and optical computing. Scaling these techniques to highly nonlinear materials could underpin ultrafast all-optically programmable integrated photonics.