bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Role of Preoperative Systemic Therapy and Primary Resection in NSCLC With Extrathoracic Metastases: Identifying the Optimal Candidates
Authors: Jin Xuanhong , Zhu Xinyu , Shen Hangchen , Zhai Chongya , Pan Hongming , You Liangkun 
Published: December 2024

Background In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), patients with extrathoracic metastases typically have a poor prognosis, with systemic chemotherapy being the standard care. The full potential of primary resection therapy (PRT) in these patients, especially during the immunotherapy era, is not fully established. Additionally, the effectiveness of systemic preoperative therapy in this context is unclear. Methods This retrospective study identified NSCLC patients with extrathoracic metastases from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 2010 to 2019. We compared the survival rates of those treated with just chemotherapy vs those receiving both chemotherapy and PRT. Results In a study of 41 909 patients with extrathoracic metastatic NSCLC receiving chemotherapy, we found that adding PRT significantly increased overall survival (median OS post-PSM: 18 months vs 11 months, P < 0.001). However, in the immunotherapy era, its effectiveness was less pronounced (HR: 0.56 vs 0.7, P for interaction = 0.011). For patients who have metastases to multiple distant organs, combined distant organ and distant lymph node metastases, or lung metastases, no additional survival benefit from PRT was observed (all P > 0.05). Patients receiving systemic preoperative therapy before PRT had significantly better outcomes than those who did not (HR = 0.69, P < 0.001). A predictive nomogram was developed and validated, showing AUCs of 0.751 and 0.766 in the training and test sets. Conclusion In both pre- and post-immunotherapy eras, patients with extrathoracic metastatic NSCLC benefit more from adding primary tumor resection to chemotherapy, especially those with preoperative systemic therapy. We created a precise nomogram to identify the best candidates for PRT among patients with extrathoracic NSCLC metastases.
A novel non-pneumatic compression device results in reduced foot and ankle swelling in patients with venous and lymphatic edema
Authors: Rao Abhishek , Berland Todd , Mullick Amir , Maldonado Thomas S , Blumberg Sheila N 
Published: December 2024

Objectives Non-pneumatic compression devices (NPCDs) rely on shape-memory alloy technology that allows patients to ambulate and remain active during lymphedema treatment. This study examines the effect of the NPCD on foot and ankle swelling. Methods This was a prospective, non-randomized study of patients with phlebolymphedema (venous insufficiency-related lymphedema) treated with a novel NPCD for 4 weeks. Ankle and foot circumference (cm), and volume measurements (ml water displacement using immersion) of the foot and ankle were obtained at enrollment, 2-weeks, and 4-weeks, and ambulation was tracked with a wearable exercise monitoring device. Results This study included 13 patients (21 limbs). A significant reduction in circumference (ankle (−0.84 ± 0.22 cm, p < .01) and metatarsal bed (−0.55 ± 0.95, p < .01)) and volume (foot/ankle (−52 ± 22 mL, p = .032)) was observed. Patients reported a mean of 8100 steps per day (±6100). Conclusions NPCD results in significant reduction in edema in the foot and ankle despite garments lacking a foot piece. Patients remained mobile while adhering to therapy.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on sex-disparities in asthma healthcare utilization and outcomes: a population study
Authors: Lam Grace Y. , Wen Chuan , Ronksley Paul E. , Bakal Jeffrey A. , Bhutani Mohit , Soril Lesley J.J. , Stickland Michael K. , Gross Douglas P. , Sharpe Heather , Weatherald Jason 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundSex-disparities in healthcare access were exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. For respiratory conditions like asthma where females have poorer disease outcomes, it is unclear if the pandemic further worsened this sex-disparity. Thus, theobjectiveof this study is to compare the impact of the pandemic on healthcare utilization, exacerbations, and mortality rates in males and females with asthma.MethodsA retrospective population-based provincial-level analysis was conducted using linked administrative datasets from Alberta, Canada. We measured hospitalization, emergency department and outpatient visits, and asthma outpatient exacerbations in female and males with asthma 18 months before and after March 12, 2020. Mortality data were compared pre-versuspost-pandemic, taking into account confirmed COVID-19 infection within 30 days. Subgroup analysis was undertaken to determine if healthcare utilization differed in those with severe asthma.ResultsAcute care and outpatient encounters for patients with asthma declined for both females and males. Those with severe asthma of either sex experienced a reduction in hospitalizations during the pandemic. Total number of outpatient asthma visits, including both virtual and in-person, increased during the pandemic for both sexes but significantly more in females. Mortality rate was unchanged after adjusting for COVID-19-associated deaths pre-versuspost-pandemic.ConclusionAll patients with asthma accessed acute care resources less but outpatient visits increased during the pandemic. There was no increase in non-COVID-related mortality, regardless of sex, suggesting that the previously established sex-disparity in asthma outcomes was not seen during the pandemic.
Disseminated histoplasmosis and presumptive CNS toxoplasmosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in a patient with HIV/AIDS: a case report
Authors: Laverde-Sudupe Nicolás , Carr Erin R. , Velit-Rios Bruno , Morel-Almonte Maria , Castro Jose Guillermo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Co-infections associated with Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (IRIS) have been described in literature, however they constitute an uncommon finding in the medical community.

Case presentation
Here we report a rare case of a 55-year-old woman from Cuba with prior medical history of HIV/AIDS adherent to her antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimen, who was hospitalized in Miami, Florida because of fluid dysphagia, odynophagia and right-sided cervical lymphadenopathy. A prior biopsy of the right cervical lymph node performed in an outside hospital found evidence of non-caseating granulomas with budding yeast, which was later confirmed to be disseminated histoplasmosis by a positive (1-3) -β-glucan assay and histoplasmosis urine antigen in this admission. Furthermore, after multiple imaging testing due to her clinical condition, a brain MRI demonstrated findings concerning for cerebral toxoplasmosis, which was supported by serology findings. Treatment with liposomal amphotericin B and TMP-SMX led to clinical and radiological improvement of this patient’s conditions, and she was discharged with an appointment for follow-up in the clinic.

Conclusion
This case highlights the complexities and challenges in managing opportunistic infections (OIs) during immune recovery in HIV/AIDS patients on ART, and emphasizes the necessity of continuous, vigilant monitoring and having a broad differential diagnosis in this group of patients.
Risk factors and nomogram for the prediction of intracranial hemorrhage in very preterm infants
Authors: Wang Yan , Yang Yong , Wen Lijun , Li Minxu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Aims
This study aims to identify important risk factors for intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in very preterm infants at our institution and develop a predictive nomogram for early detection of ICH.

Methods
We retrospectively analyzed neonates with a gestational age (GA) under 32 weeks, admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit from March 2022 to July 2023. Infants were categorized into two groups based on ultrasound findings and assessed for thirteen variables including gender, GA, birth weight (BW), acidosis, among others. We used multivariate logistic regression analysis to build a prediction model and identify independent risk factors for ICH. We build a prediction model by assigning 241 cases to the training set and 103 to the validation set (ratio 7:3).

Results
Among 344 very preterm infants, the incidence of ICH was 36.9% (89 cases) in training set. Significant differences were observed in gestational age, birth weight, antenatal corticosteroids, mechanical ventilation days, and acidosis between cases and controls. Logistic regression analysis identified gestational age (OR = 0.674), antenatal corticosteroids (OR = 0.257), acidosis (OR = 2.556), and mechanical ventilation mechanical ventilation days(OR = 0.257) as independent risk factors for ICH. The C-index of the training and validation sets was 0.814 (95% CI: 0.762–0.869) and 0.784 (95% CI: 0.693–0.875), respectively. According to decision curve analysis, our model outperformed the “None” and “All” baseline lines over a wide range of risk thresholds (0.12–0.92).

Conclusion
Acidosis and mechanical ventilation are independent risk factors for ICH in very preterm neonates, while higher gestational age and antenatal corticosteroid use are protective. The nomogram developed from these four factors demonstrates strong predictive accuracy and calibration, which can aid clinicians in identifying preterm infants at high risk for ICH and facilitate early diagnosis and management.
Evaluation of response to a cholera outbreak in January 2024 using the 7–1–7 timeliness metrics: a case study of Elegu Point of Entry, Uganda
Authors: Ssemanda Innocent , Kibwika Brian , Namusoosa Ritah , Kwesiga Benon , Bulage Lilian , Migisha Richard , Ario Alex Riolexus 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Cholera is a major public health threat in Uganda, especially in border districts prone to outbreaks from cross-border movement. We investigated and evaluated the initial response to a January 2024 cholera outbreak in Elegu Town, on the Uganda-South Sudan border, using the 7–1–7 timeliness metrics to assess detection, notification, and response capacities, highlighting Uganda's preparedness and challenges in managing cross-border outbreaks.

Methods
We defined a suspected case as the onset of acute watery diarrhea in an asylum seeker at the Elegu border point from January to February 2024. A confirmed case was a suspected case in which Vibrio cholerae was isolated in the stool by culture or PCR. We actively searched for cases and collected data on person characteristics, symptoms, and outbreak timeliness. We used semi-structured interviews to elicit insights from district health officials on the enabling factors and bottlenecks during the response. We used the 7–1–7 metric to assess detection, notification, and response capacities of the point of entry.

Results
Thirteen members of a refugee family from South Sudan were diagnosed with cholera within 6 h of arrival at the Elegu border, with 4 (31%) confirmed cases. No death occurred. The authorities detected, notified, and responded to the outbreak within the 7–1–7 timelines, with no major bottlenecks identified. The outbreak was detected and notified within one day and by the fifth day, a full response was mounted. The prompt response was attributed to the availability of a functional emergency operations center and the presence of trained surveillance frontline health workers.

Conclusion
Response to an imported cholera outbreak at Elegu border point demonstrated Uganda's preparedness in managing cross-border disease outbreaks. Achieving the 7–1–7 targets highlighted the country’s-built capacity to detect, notify, and respond to such events. Continued investment in local-level disease detection, communication, and national-level resource mobilization will be crucial to sustaining future effective cross-border outbreak prevention and control strategies.
Exploring mitogenomic data to enhance the understanding of Seirinae (Collembola: Entomobryidae) evolution, distribution and taxonomy
Authors: Bellini Bruno Cavalcante , Cipola Nikolas Gioia , Jantarit Sopark , da Cunha Santos Nathália Michelly , Nilsai Areeruk , Cheng Hsin-Ju , Godeiro Nerivânia Nunes 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe subfamily Seirinae (Collembola: Entomobryidae) is among the most diverse suprageneric taxa of epedaphic springtails and is particularly abundant and species-rich in tropical and subtropical regions. Numerous studies have investigated its internal and external phylogenetic relationships, enhancing our understanding on Seirinae systematics. Recent taxonomic efforts have also advanced our knowledge on the subfamily morphology and diversity. In this study, we reevaluate the phylogeny of Seirinae using the mitogenomes of 26 samples from different continents, aiming to discuss recent findings regarding the group systematics, to identify cases of alien species introduced in China and Thailand, and propose new synonyms for Seira spp. Additionally, we describe a new species from Thailand and provide a redescription of Seira brasiliana (Arlé) based on the study of Brazilian and Chinese specimens. Through these efforts, we provide further ground for understanding the evolution, systematics, distribution and taxonomy of the group, contributing to future studies on Seirinae and Entomobryidae.
Biofilm and the effect of sonication in a chronic Staphylococcus epidermidis orthopedic in vivo implant infection model
Authors: Sandbakken Erik Thorvaldsen , Høyer Erling , Witsø Eivind , Søgaard Caroline Krogh , Díez-Sánchez Alberto , Hoang Linh , Wik Tina Strømdal , Bergh Kåre 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
In diagnosing chronic orthopedic implant infections culture of sonicate represents a supplement to tissue cultures. However, the extent to which biofilm forms on implant surfaces and the degree of dislodgement of bacteria by sonication remains unclear. In this in vivo study using a low bacterial inoculum, we aimed to determine whether a variable effect of sonication could be observed in a standardized in vivo model.

Materials and Methods
Seven Wistar rats underwent surgery with intramuscular implantation of two bone xenograft implants, each containing two steel plates. The grafts were inoculated with approximately 500 colony forming units (CFU) of Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 35984. After 20 days the rats were sacrificed, and the steel plates were removed from the bone grafts. Epifluorescence microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to visualize biofilm formation and dislodgement on the plate surfaces. In addition to cultures of sonicate, a quantitative S. epidermidis specific PCR was developed for enumeration of bacteria.

Results
A chronic, low-grade implant infection was successfully established, with all animals remaining in good health. All infected bone graft implants yielded abundant growth of S. epidermidis, with a median of 3.25 (1.6–4.6) × 10⁷ CFU per/graft. We were unable to distinguish infected plates from negative controls using epifluorescence microscopy. On infected plates small colonies of staphylococci were identified by SEM. The number of bacteria detected in the sonicate was low with 500 (100–2400) CFU/plate and 475 (140–1821) copies/plate by qPCR. The difference in area covered by fluorescent material before and after sonication was 10.1 (5.7–12.3) %, p = 0.018.

Conclusion
Despite the pronounced infection in the surrounding tissue, only few bacteria were detected on the surface of the steel implants. This is evident from the minimal findings by SEM before sonication, as well as the very low CFU counts and DNA copies in the sonicate. Sonication did not show variable effectiveness, indicating it is a valuable addition to, but not a replacement for biopsy cultures in cases of implant-associated infections with low-virulence microorganisms.
A latent profile analysis of cognitive emotion regulation strategies in relation to negative emotions and NSSI among Chinese junior high school students
Authors: Zhang Peiyu , Xiong Yuanqi , Shi Jingyu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Little is known about the latent profiles of cognitive emotion regulation strategy (CERS) and its relationship with negative emotions and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) in Chinese junior high school students, although CERS is thought to be strongly associated with emotional-behavioral problems in adolescents.

Methods
A total of 2807 junior high school students in Yunnan Province, China, were selected for the study. They were measured with the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ), the Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Questionnaire, and the Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale. Latent profile analysis was used to explore latent profiles of CERS among students, and the one-way ANOVA or c2 test was used to explore the relationship between the profiles and depression, anxiety, stress or NSSI.

Results
(1) Latent profile analysis revealed five CERS types: ‘Maladaptive group’ (32.25%), ‘Moderate adaptive-low maladaptive group’ (24.68%), ‘Rigid group’ (19.73%), ‘High adaptive-moderate maladaptive group’ (14.42%), and ‘Sensitive group’ (8.82%). (2) The multivariable logistic regression analyses showed that with increasing age (OR = 0.812, 95% CI = 0.66–0.99, p < 0.05), junior high school students were less likely to be in the ‘Moderate adaptive-low maladaptive group’, and males (OR = 0. 698, 95% CI = 0.52–0.94, p < 0.05) were less likely to be classified as ‘Moderate adaptive-low maladaptive group’; (3) ANOVA and c2 test results showed that the differences between the different latent profiles of junior high school students on anxiety, depression, stress and NSSI indicators were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The ‘Sensitive group’ had the highest risk of emotional-behavioral problems and the ‘Moderate adaptive-low maladaptive group’ had the lowest risk of emotional-behavioral problems.

Conclusion
Negative emotions and NSSI in junior high school students are closely related to their CERS profiles, and it is important to use targeted strategies to prevent and intervene in emotional-behavioral problems for individuals with different CERS subtypes.
The development and application of chimeric antigen receptor natural killer (CAR-NK) cells for cancer therapy: current state, challenges and emerging therapeutic advances
Authors: Yao Pin , Liu Ya-Guang , Huang Gang , Hao Liangchun , Wang Runan 
Published: December 2024

AbstractImmunotherapy has transformed the landscape of cancer treatment, with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T (CAR-T) cell therapy emerging as a front runner in addressing some hematological malignancies. Despite its considerable efficacy, the occurrence of severe adverse effects associated with CAR-T cell therapy has limited their scope and prompted the exploration of alternative therapeutic strategies. Natural killer (NK) cells, characterized by both their innate cytotoxicity and ability to lyse target cells without the constraint of peptide specificity conferred by a major histocompatibility complex (MHC), have similarly garnered attention as a viable immunotherapy. As such, another therapeutic approach has recently emerged that seeks to combine the continued success of CAR-T cell therapy with the flexibility of NK cells. Clinical trials involving CAR-engineered NK (CAR-NK) cell therapy have exhibited promising efficacy with fewer deleterious side effects. This review aims to provide a concise overview of the cellular and molecular basis of NK cell biology, facilitating a better understanding of advancements in CAR design and manufacturing. The focus is on current approaches and strategies employed in CAR-NK cell development, exploring at both preclinical and clinical settings. We will reflect upon the achievements, advantages, and challenges intrinsic to CAR-NK cell therapy. Anticipating the maturation of CAR-NK cell therapy technology, we foresee its encouraging prospects for a broader range of cancer patients and other conditions. It is our belief that this CAR-NK progress will bring us closer to making significant strides in the treatment of refractory and recurrent cancers, as well as other immune-mediated disorders.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for post-stroke epilepsy: a mini-review
Authors: Aderinto Nicholas , Olatunji Gbolahan , Kokori Emmanuel , Ogieuhi Ikponmwosa Jude , Moradeyo Abdulrahmon , Samuel Owolabi , Babalola Adetola Emmanuel , Napoleon Tejiri , Awosan Wuraola , Oyewo Oluwaseun , Udojike Chidinma , Omoworare Oluwatobi , Adebayo Yewande Abigail 
Published: December 2024

AbstractPost-stroke epilepsy (PSE) is a common complication of stroke, significantly impacting patient’s quality of life. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an emerging potential non-invasive treatment for PSE. This review explores current evidence for rTMS in PSE, highlighting its potential benefits and limitations. Initial studies suggested that rTMS may reduce the seizure burden. Some studies observed a trend towards fewer seizures within two weeks of treatment initiation, indicating a relatively rapid response. Additionally, rTMS may be more effective when used in combination with medication, particularly for patients with specific lesion locations (frontal/temporal lobes) and seizure types (complex partial seizures). This points towards the potential of personalized treatment protocols. However, current evidence has limitations. Studies often involve small sample sizes and methodological variations, necessitating larger, well-designed trials with standardized protocols to confirm the efficacy and safety of rTMS in PSE. Future research should also focus on the optimization of treatment parameters, including stimulation frequency, duration, coil placement, and treatment course. Long-term studies are needed to evaluate the persistence of treatment effects on seizure control, cognitive function, and overall patient outcomes. Refining patient selection criteria and investigating the underlying mechanisms of therapeutic effects of rTMS in PSE are also crucial areas for future exploration.
Directional web strikes are performed by ray spiders in response to airborne prey vibrations
Authors: Han Sarah I. , Blackledge Todd A. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT
Most orb-weaving spiders use static webs that deform only after flying prey hit the webs. However, ray spiders (Theridiosoma gemmosum) pull orb webs into cones that are loaded with enough elastic energy to snap back like slingshots at accelerations of up to 504 m s−2 once released. We test the hypothesis that ray spiders sense vibrations from flying insects to release their webs and capture prey in mid-flight. We show that spiders release webs in response to live tethered mosquitoes that are not touching silk. Web release is most likely when mosquitoes are in front of the web and within the ‘capture cone’ where the capture spiral moves directly into the insects’ flight. In summary, ray spiders use airborne stimuli to determine both the direction and distance of flying prey. Perception of airborne cues from flying insects may be an under-appreciated source of information for other web-building spider species about the approach, size and/or behaviors of insects prior to contact with webs.