bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Approaching onchocerciasis elimination in Equatorial Guinea: Near zero transmission and public health implication
Authors: Ncogo Policarpo , Hernández-González Ana , Ta-Tang Thuy-Huong , Redondo Lidia , Álvarez Ana , Perteguer Maria J. , Rubio José M. , Nguema Rufino , Nguema Justino , García Marta , Reguero Laura , Valverde Teresa , Lanza Marta , Cerrada-Gálvez Laura , Rebollo Maria , Cano Jorge , Benito Agustín , Herrador Zaida 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis (LF) are endemic in Equatorial Guinea with notable variations in disease incidence between island and mainland regions. Historically, efforts to control and map these diseases were concentrated in Bioko Island, where loiasis is absent, allowing for targeted onchocerciasis interruption strategies. With the cessation of onchocerciasis transmission on Bioko and no reported cases on Annobon island, assessing the transmission status in the previously unaddressed mainland region has become imperative. Mapping efforts in mainland Equatorial Guinea have proven low to moderate level of transmission for LF and onchocerciasis, although the results so far have not been very conclusive. The current study aims to update the prevalence estimates for onchocerciasis and LF in mainland Equatorial Guinea using various diagnostic techniques.

Methods
This is the first cross-sectional study carried out to estimate the prevalence of onchocerciasis and LF in the mainland area of Equatorial Guinea, from September to December 2019, based on the combination of skin snip biopsies, thick blood smears, laboratory serological tests (ELISA tests for the detection of IgG4 antibodies against Onchocerca volvulus recombinant antigen Ov16 and Wuchereria bancrofti recombinant antigen Wb123) and molecular laboratory tests. Frequencies and prevalence rates, along with 95% confidence intervals for interval estimation of a binomial proportion, were computed.

Results
The overall onchocerciasis seroprevalence calculated for the study was 0.3% (95% CI: 0.1 to 0.5%). Microscopic examination of skin biopsies from the eight individuals seropositive for Ov16, out of the 3951 individuals initially tested, revealed no O. volvulus microfilariae. However, DNA extracted from one skin snip was successfully amplified, with subsequent sequencing confirming the presence of O. volvulus. Among the 3951 individuals, 182 were found to have anti-Wb123 antibodies, suggesting exposure to W. bancrofti, with an estimated seroprevalence of 4.6% (95% CI: 4.0 to 5.3%). Microscopy and Filaria-real time-PCR (F-RT-PCR) analysis for W. bancrofti were negative across all samples.

Conclusions
The findings indicate that onchocerciasis may no longer constitutes a public health problem in Equatorial Guinea, positioning the country on the verge of achieving elimination. Additionally, the mapped prevalence of LF will facilitate the formulation of national strategies aimed at eradicating filariases countrywide.

Graphical Abstract
A call for objectivity: Radiologists’ proposed wishlist for response evaluation in solid tumors (RECIST 1.1)
Authors: Ruchalski Kathleen , Anaokar Jordan M. , Benz Matthias R. , Dewan Rohit , Douek Michael L. , Goldin Jonathan G. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe Response Evaluation in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 provides key guidance for performing imaging response assessment and defines image-based outcome metrics in oncology clinical trials, including progression free survival. In this framework, tumors identified on imaging are designated as either target lesions, non-target disease or new lesions and a structured categorical response is assigned at each imaging time point. While RECIST provides definitions for these categories, it specifically and objectively defines only the target disease. Predefined thresholds of size change provide unbiased metrics for determining objective response and disease progression of the target lesions. However, worsening of non-target disease or emergence of new lesions is given the same importance in determining disease progression despite these being qualitatively assessed and less rigorously defined. The subjective assessment of non-target and new disease contributes to reader variability, which can impact the quality of image interpretation and even the determination of progression free survival. The RECIST Working Group has made significant efforts in developing RECIST 1.1 beyond its initial publication, particularly in its application to targeted agents and immunotherapy. A review of the literature highlights that the Working Group has occasionally employed or adopted objective measures for assessing non-target and new lesions in their evaluation of RECIST-based outcome measures. Perhaps a prospective evaluation of these more objective definitions for non-target and new lesions within the framework of RECIST 1.1 might improve reader interpretation. Ideally, these changes could also better align with clinically meaningful outcome measures of patient survival or quality of life.
The clinical efficacy of laser in the nonsurgical treatment of peri-implantitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Nengwen , Li Yang , Li Wen , Zhao Rui , Ou Yanjing , Chen Jiang , Li Jinjin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Objective
To systematically assess studies regarding the efficacy of lasers in the nonsurgical treatment of peri-implantitis.

Methods
Electronic and manual searches were performed by two reviewers independently. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing lasers vs. mechanical debridement or air abrasive on primary outcome (probing depth (PD)) and secondary outcomes (bone loss, bleeding on probing (BOP), clinical attachment level (CAL) and plaque index (PI)) were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted independently. Weighted mean difference (WMD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for continuous outcomes. Publication bias, leave-one-out analysis and GRADE assessment were conducted.

Result
13 eligible publications were included in the review and 12 in the meta-analysis. Solid-state lasers significantly improved in PD (WMD = -0.39, 95% CI (-0.70, -0.09), p = 0.01, moderate-certainty evidence), BOP (SMD =-0.76, 95% CI (-1.23, -0.28), p = 0.002, moderate-certainty evidence) and CAL (WMD =-0.19, 95% CI (-0.39, -0.00), p = 0.05, moderate-certainty evidence), but not in bone loss (WMD = 0.03, 95% CI (-0.13, 0.18), p = 0.74, low-certainty evidence) and PI (SMD =-0.19, 95% CI (-0.42, 0.04), p = 0.11, moderate-certainty evidence) compared with the control group. However, the diode lasers showed no clinical advantages. No publication bias was detected, and leave-one-out analysis confirmed the robustness of findings.

Conclusion
In the nonsurgical treatment of peri-implantitis, solid-state lasers yielded positive influence in term of PD, BOP and CAL, while diode laser provided no beneficial effect. Future well-designed large RCTs are still needed, considering the limitations of included studies.

Clinical relevance
This review aimed to guide clinicians in choosing the appropriate laser for peri-implantitis, enhancing treatment strategies and attaining better outcomes.
Development of an assessment tool for collaborative problem-solving skills in chemistry
Authors: Ying Yike , Tiemann Rüdiger 
Published: November 2024

AbstractCollaborative problem-solving (CPS) skills are recognised as an essential aspect of 21st century skills and STEM education. In the STEM framework, students’ CPS skills in the learning process need to be appropriately monitored, yet assessment tools for students’ CPS skills are currently not widely developed in chemistry. This study aimed to develop and validate the assessment tool for measuring high school students’ collaborative problem-solving skills in chemistry (CPS-C). Fifty-two students participated in the assessment, which included tasks on Coke Titration, Fruit Battery, and Soap Making. The data were analyzed using Multidimensional Item Response Theory (MIRT) models and the Generalized Partial Credit Model (GPCM). The results indicated that the CPS-C tool showed good internal consistency and item fit. Additionally, ten students were interviewed, and the interview content was analyzed using MAXQDA, emphasizing the importance of providing clear and concise instructions, reducing the number of tasks, and offering meaningful and relevant options. Moreover, this study also validated the reliability of cognitive ability tests, mental load and effort tests, and interest and motivation tests. The results showed satisfactory reliability for all tests except for the mental load and effort tests, which had a lower reliability coefficient of 0.68. Despite some limitations, the CPS-C tool showed great potential for effectively assessing CPS skills. Further research is needed to validate the tool’s effectiveness and reliability across larger, more diverse samples and different cultural contexts.
Positive and negative syndromes in schizophrenia: analysis of determinants and severity of symptoms in Moroccan patients
Authors: Fritah Khadija , Chakit Miloud , Kassal Yassmine , Belbachir Siham , Laboudi Fouad , Ouanass Aderrazzak , Mesfioui Abdelhalim , El Hessni Aboubaker 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Schizophrenia is a debilitating psychiatric condition distinguished by a variety of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral manifestations. It affects an individual’s cognition, emotions, and actions, resulting in challenges in discerning reality from illusion. The objective of the current study was to assess the determinants and severity of symptoms in Moroccan patients hospitalized in Ar-Razi Hospital, Rabat, Morocco using Positive and Negative Syndromes scales (PANSS).

Methods
One hundred sixty-one schizophrenic patients were admitted to Ar-Razi Hospital in Sale. The PANSS scale, in conjunction with a sociodemographic questionnaire, is utilized as the assessment tool for symptoms. A chi-square test at a 5% error level and a Pearson correlation test were applied to investigate possible associations.

Results
The findings demonstrate a significant bias towards males (9:1), with 90% being unmarried, and 96.3% originating from urban settings. The breakdown of patients based on symptoms reveals a prevalence of 14.3% for the positive scale, 18% for the negative scale, and 11.2% for the psychopathological scale. The correlation analysis demonstrates a strong relationship between the three scales. The factors that were found to have a notable impact are gender (p < 0.000), functional ability (p < 0.032), socioeconomic status (p < 0.008), living environment (p < 0.05), and use of tobacco and cannabis.

Conclusion
Confronted with this scenario, healthcare professionals are required to evaluate the key factors in the timely detection of schizophrenia and advocate for the consistent utilization of the PANSS scale in the management and monitoring of patients.
Management of multiple valve replacement operations for a young patient with hypereosinophilic syndrome and valvular heart disease: a case report
Authors: Kado Yuichiro , Kan-o Meikun , Ushijima Tomoki , Fujita Satoshi , Shinohara Gen , Kimura Satoshi , Sonoda Hiromichi , Oishi Yasuhisa , Tanoue Yoshihisa , Shiose Akira 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is characterized by the overproduction of eosinophils and manifests as valvular disease and thrombogenesis. Herein, we report our experience with a patient with HES requiring multiple reoperations for prosthetic heart valve replacement via median sternotomy.

Case presentation
The patient was a 54-year-old man who had undergone four valve replacement operations via median sternotomy (three mitral valve replacements and one double valve replacement) because of valvular diseases complicated by HES since he was 26 years old. All the artificial valves were bioprosthetic to prevent thrombotic events. At presentation, he had developed structural deterioration of the artificial aortic valve with severe stenosis. His prosthetic mitral valve did not fulfil the criteria for intervention, as it exhibited only mild regurgitation and no stenosis. The explanted mitral prosthetic valve at the previous (fourth) surgery had exhibited eosinophilic infiltration, resulting in the introduction of cyclosporin for poorly controlled HES. We conducted re-aortic valve replacement via a fifth median sternotomy using a bioprosthetic valve, and no eosinophilic infiltration was observed in the explanted valve. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 15 without complications.

Conclusions
Controlling eosinophil count during the pre- and postoperative course is vital in treating patients with HES after valve replacement surgery. A holistic management and therapeutic strategy, including prosthetic valve selection and medication for HES is required to improve outcomes of patients with HES and heart valve disease.
Bone Microarchitecture Evaluated by HR-PQCT in Chinese Adolescent and Pediatric Patients With X-Linked Hypophosphatemia
Authors: Wu Yushuo , Yang Yisen , Ma Xiaosen , Pang Qianqian , Chi Yue , Jiajue Ruizhi , Liu Wei , Jiang Yan , Wang Ou , Li Mei , Xing Xiaoping , Cui Lijia , Xia Weibo 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Context
X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is the most common form of heritable hypophosphatemic rickets. Previous studies have found deteriorated bone microarchitecture in adults with XLH. Detailed studies on the skeletal microarchitecture of adolescent and pediatric patients with XLH are still lacking.

Objective
This study aimed to evaluate bone geometry, density, microarchitecture, stiffness in adolescent and pediatric patients with XLH by using high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT).

Method
This study utilized HR-pQCT to assess bone geometry, density, microarchitecture, and stiffness in 106 Chinese adolescent and pediatric patients with XLH.

Result
Compared with sex- and age-matched controls, patients with XLH had significantly higher trabecular area (Tb.Ar), lower total volumetric bone mineral density, lower cortical volumetric BMD (Ct.vBMD), and lower stiffness at both the distal radius and the tibia after adjusting for height and weight. Alkaline phosphatase Z score (ALP-Z), a marker to reflect the disease activity of rickets, was negatively correlated with Ct.vBMD and cortical thickness at the distal radius, and Ct.vBMD at the distal tibia, and positively correlated with cortical porosity at the distal tibia. We developed an online calculator to estimate Tb.Ar, Ct.vBMD, and stiffness of the distal tibia of adolescent and pediatric patients with XLH based on clinical general characteristic and biochemical indicators.

Conclusion
The bone microarchitecture of adolescent and pediatric patients with XLH had deteriorated, and ALP-Z was negatively correlated with the skeletal quality of adolescent and pediatric patients with XLH, especially in the cortical bone. HR-pQCT parameters can be estimated using clinical characteristics and biochemical indicators, which may assist physicians to monitor the disease progression in areas without HR-pQCT access.
Treatment of Hypothalamic Obesity With GLP-1 Analogs
Authors: Dimitri Paul , Roth Christian L 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Congenital and acquired damage to hypothalamic nuclei or neuronal circuits controlling satiety and energy expenditure results in hypothalamic obesity (HO). To date, successful weight loss and satiety has only been achieved in a limited number of affected patients across multiple drug trials. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) acts via central pathways that are independent from the hypothalamus to induce satiety. GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) may provide an alternative approach to treating HO.

Methods
We performed a comprehensive search in Medline, Google Scholar, and clinical trials registries (ClinicalTrials.gov; clinicaltrialsregister.eur). This nonsystematic literature review was conducted to identify scientific papers published from January 2005 to February 2024 using the Pubmed and Embase databases. Key words used were GLP-1, GLP-1RA, hypothalamic obesity, suprasellar tumor, and craniopharyngioma.

Results
Our search identified 7 case studies, 5 case series, and 2 published clinical trials relating to the use of GLP-1RAs in HO. All case studies demonstrated weight loss and improved metabolic function. In contrast, results from case series were variable, with some showing no weight loss and others demonstrating moderate to significant weight loss and improved metabolic parameters. In the ECHO clinical trial, nearly half the subjects randomized to weekly exenatide showed reduced body mass index (BMI). Paradoxically, BMI reduction was greater in patients with more extensive hypothalamic injuries.

Conclusion
GLP-1RAs potentially offer a new approach to treating HO. There is a need to stratify patients who are more likely to respond. Further randomized controlled trials are required to determine their efficacy either in isolation or combined with other therapies.
A New Complication of Spinal Fusion Surgery for Neuromuscular Scoliosis—Posterior Mediastinal Hematoma: Case Report
Authors: Allam Anthony K. , Flores Alex R. , Hanson Darrell S. , Bauer David F. 
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE:
Neuromuscular scoliosis surgery is affiliated with a high risk of perioperative and postoperative complications. We present the case of a never-before-reported complication: a posterior mediastinal hematoma.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:
We present the case of a 17-year-old female patient with cerebral palsy and neuromuscular scoliosis with a progressive thoracic kyphosis to 85° and levoscoliosis to 13.5° who presented for spinal fusion surgery. Postoperatively, the patient developed persistent tachycardia despite initial resuscitation, anxiolysis, and analgesia. A computed tomography scan was obtained revealing a posterior mediastinal hematoma. The patient was managed with supportive care and recovered well.

CONCLUSION:
This case highlights a never-before-reported complication of spinal fusion surgery: a posterior mediastinal hematoma. Although unlikely symptomatic, a posterior mediastinal hematoma should be on the differential diagnosis for postoperative tachycardia. This case entreats us to elucidate the true incidence rate of this complication in the population.
Modified Transanterior Perforated Substance Approach Using the Medial Territory to Thalamomesencephalic Cavernous Malformations: A Case Report
Authors: Ni Yunjia , Wang Zhiyu , Zhang Zhongshuai , Li Hongchan , Gu Lianping , Zhou Qiangyi , Yin Jian , Liu Yaohua , Lou Meiqing 
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE:
Thalamomesencephalic lesions remain a challenge to neurosurgeons for their eloquent anatomy and postoperative neurological deficits. With limited cases in the literature, these lesions are still managed in a case-by-case fashion.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:
Here, we present a case of an otherwise healthy man who had a 46-day history of impaired vision and right-sided weakness and numbness caused by ventrally located thalamomesencephalic cavernous malformations (CMs). A modified transanterior perforated substance approach using the medial territory was performed for gross total resection of the CMs. No new-onset neurological deficits were observed postoperatively. Apart from visual improvements, the patient's muscle strength constantly improved and recovered full strength on 14-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION:
The authors believe that the transanterior perforated substance approach through the medial territory can be considered as an option for ventrally located thalamomesencephalic CMs.
Diffusely Infiltrating Gliomas With Poor Prognosis, TERT Promotor Mutations, and Histological Anaplastic Pleomorphic Xanthoastrocytoma-Like Appearance Classify as Mesenchymal Type of Glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype by Methylation Analysis
Authors: Tsukamoto Yoshihiro , Natsumeda Manabu , Takahashi Haruhiko , On Jotaro , Seto Hiroki , Saito Taiki , Shibuya Kohei , Ogura Ryosuke , Ito Junko , Okada Masayasu , Oishi Makoto , Shimizu Hiroshi , Okamoto Kouichirou , Kakita Akiyoshi , Fujii Yukihiko 
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:
Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) (World Health Organization grade II) is classified as a relatively benign and circumscribed glioma; however, anaplastic PXA (APXA, World Health Organization grade III) has a poorer prognosis, and differentiating from glioblastoma can be difficult both histologically and molecularly.

OBJECTIVE:
To describe the clinical, pathological, and molecular characteristics of diffusely infiltrating gliomas with histological APXA-like features.

METHODS:
Four diffusely infiltrating gliomas in adult patients histologically diagnosed as APXAs at a single institute were retrospectively reviewed. We analyzed their clinical, radiological, pathological, genetic, epigenetic, and prognostic characteristics.

RESULTS:
All tumors histologically showed classical characteristic PXA-like appearance with BRAF wildtype, mitotic figure, necrosis, and an increased mindbomb E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase 1 labeling index and were initially diagnosed as APXAs; moreover, they underwent high-grade glioma treatment. Three patients with TERT promotor mutations died within 18 months. These patients' MRIs showed widespread infiltrating fluid-attenuated inversion recovery hyperintense lesions and Gd-enhancing lesions in the bilateral cerebral hemispheres in 2 of the patients. Contrastingly, a patient with the wildtype TERT promotor has survived for 2.5 years without recurrence. MRI revealed an unilateral fluid-attenuated inversion recovery hyperintense and Gd-enhancing lesion. By methylation classifier analysis, all 4 cases clustered toward GBM, IDH-wildtype, mesenchymal type, although one was deemed unclassifiable due to a low calibrated score.

CONCLUSION:
In diffusely infiltrating gliomas showing histological characteristics of APXA, methylation classification should be performed as these tumors may be difficult to differentiate between glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype by histological or genetic analysis. The aggressive nature of these tumors should be expected, especially in cases that are BRAF-wildtype and TERT promotor mutant.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation for Chronic Foot Pain Induced by Morton Neuroma: A Novel, Personalized Approach in One Patient
Authors: Saway Brian Fabian , Terry Reese Townsend , Weber Aimee C. , Rowland Nathan C. 
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE:
Morton neuroma (MN) is a condition characterized by pain that is located within one or more intermetatarsal spaces of the forefoot. Numerous conservative measures are available for the management of mild-to-moderate MN cases. In more severe presentations, surgical interventions may be considered, including neuroma excision, cryogenic or radiofrequency ablation, and decompression. However, no standard treatments exist for occurrences of recurrent MN after surgery. Peripheral nerve stimulation is a neuromodulatory treatment that is highly effective for other neuropathic pain syndromes but remains underutilized for MN.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:
Here, we present the operative technique and clinical outcome in a patient with chronic pain induced by MN who underwent bilateral implantation of peripheral nerve stimulation devices. In less than 12 months, the patient had near-complete resolution of chronic foot pain with no postoperative complications.

DISCUSSION:
We present the first published case and operative technique of successful peripheral nerve stimulator implantation as an effective treatment of MN.

CONCLUSION:
Peripheral nerve stimulator implantation is a promising and effective intervention that can be considered for refractory MN.