bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spontaneous Regression of Epileptogenic Pilocytic Astrocytoma with FGFR1-TACC1 Fusion
Authors: Horikoshi Ko , Iimura Yasushi , Suzuki Hiroharu , Suzuki Mario , Sugano Hidenori , Kondo Akihide 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Pilocytic astrocytoma (PA) is the most common pediatric tumor, typically located in the cerebellum, with spontaneous regression observed mainly in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). However, spontaneous regression of PA without NF1 is rarely reported. Here, we describe a case of spontaneous regression of PA without NF1, located in the left frontal lobe with FGFR1-TACC1 fusion, in a 14-year-old boy who presented with intractable epilepsy. Initial MRI revealed a lesion in the left middle frontal gyrus, and subsequent follow-up MRI demonstrated spontaneous regression. Despite this regression, the patient's seizures persisted, leading to epileptic focus resection. Pathological examination confirmed PA with characteristic histological findings and FGFR1-TACC1 fusion. This case suggests that FGFR1-TACC1 fusion may be linked to spontaneous regression of PA, even in the absence of NF1. Surgical intervention may remain necessary in cases of intractable epilepsy associated with PA, regardless of tumor regression.
Screening and verification of specific antibodies against Cysticercus cellulosae by antibody microarray technology
Authors: Duan Rui , Zhao Yuyuan , Li Hongchang , Wang Mengqi , Zhang Dejia , Zhao Yongjun , Liu Xiaolei , Yang Xing , Pang Jianda , Sun Shumin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Cysticercosis occurs primarily in economically underdeveloped regions of the world, limiting diagnosis by conventional imaging and serologic tests. In addition, due to the limitations of traditional diagnostic methods, there has been an increased demand for cysticercosis markers with high specificity and sensitivity.In this study, antibody microarray technology was used for high-throughput screening of Cysticercus cellulosae, patient serum, and healthy human serum. Differential expression analysis and cluster analysis identified 271 antibodies with significantly different expression levels. The six antibodies were found to be significantly different in healthy serum compared to patient serum and parasite samples, indicating their potential as markers for the diagnosis of cysticercosis. It will be important for the diagnosis and treatment of this foodborne disease to further develop and utilize these markers.
“Beyond the Incision”: A Case-Control Study on IV and Epidural Preemptive Analgesia in Lumbar Spine Surgery
Authors: Joseph Akhil Xavier , Kashyap Anjana , Thirugnanam Balamurugan , Soni Abhishek , Pai Madhava , Vidyadhara Alia , S Vidyadhara 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Effective pain management in lumbar spine surgery is critical to enhancing postoperative recovery and minimizing complications. Preemptive analgesia, administered either intravenously or epidurally, has shown promise in controlling pain; however, limited data exist comparing the two routes directly to determine the optimal approach for lumbar procedures.
Purpose
To evaluate and compare pain control efficacy, recovery outcomes, and postoperative complications between IV and epidural preemptive analgesia routes in lumbar spine surgeries.
Methods
A retrospective case-control study comparing the efficacy of intravenous (IV) and epidural preemptive analgesia in patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery. Patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery were divided into three groups based on the analgesia route: Epidural, IV and Control respectively. Pain scores, analgesic consumption, and recovery profiles were assessed postoperatively. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and Chi-square tests, were used to evaluate differences in pain control and recovery outcomes between groups.
Results
Epidural preemptive analgesia demonstrated significantly lower postoperative pain scores and reduced analgesic consumption compared to IV administration in the early post-operative period. Highlighting only a marginal route-specific benefit in lumbar spine surgery.
Conclusion
This study fills a critical gap by directly comparing IV and epidural preemptive analgesia in lumbar spine surgery, providing insights for clinical decision-making. Findings suggest IV analgesia offers comparable pain control to epidural, presenting a safer alternative with fewer procedural risks. Results hold valuable implications for optimizing perioperative care.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
Level IV
The optimized efficiency of pulmonary vein isolation shortened the procedure time but did not improve the success rate in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Zhang Ling , Xie Yangjing , Hu Xiaoxia , Ma Dongyu , Huang Ying 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is the crucial treatment approach of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). The success of PVI primarily depends on several factors, including ablation catheter contact force, ablation lesion depth, catheter stability, and ablation point continuity. This project attempted to systematically examine these elements during PVI and evaluate how variations in these parameters affect the safety and efficacy of catheter ablation in patients with PAF.
Methods
This study conducted a retrospective analysis of four key parameters, force-over-time (FOT), ablation index (AI), breakpoint, and GAP in patients with PAF undergoing PVI treatment during bilateral PVI. The AIFV system (utilizing AI, was employed to analyze raw data from the CARTO3 system), categorizing patients into standardized and non-standardized groups based on whether these ablation parameters simultaneously met predetermined criteria. The study evaluated changes in ablation parameters between the two groups, as well as the success rate of atrial arrhythmias post-ablation and the incidence of complications.
Results
There were no significant differences in general clinical characteristics between the standardized (n = 67) and non-standardized (n = 85) groups. Bilateral PVI was successfully performed in all patients (100%). The standardized group achieved a higher ratio of FOT and AI than the non-standardized group (91.79 ± 5.87% vs. 84.46 ± 12.54%, and 93.42 ± 5.09% vs. 86.78 ± 9.08%, P < 0.001, respectively). The standardized group also exhibited a lower ratio of breakpoints and GAP occurrences (6.02 ± 4.80% vs. 16.82 ± 13.20%, and 0% versus 24.70%, P < 0.001, respectively). The standardized group exhibited fewer ablation points overall and a shorter procedure time compared to the non-standardized group (77.13 ± 9.27 vs. 84.54 ± 15.59, and 36.52 ± 7.03 min vs. 41.21 ± 12.36 min, P < 0.005). There was no significant difference in complications between the two groups (0% vs. 1.17%; P > 0.05). After an average follow-up period of 16.86 ± 3.03 months, the incidence of AF after a single procedure without antiarrhythmic drug therapy was 88.15%. Moreover, 61/67 (91.04%) patients in the standardized group and 73/85 (85.88%) patients in the non-standardized group remained free of AF without significant difference (P > 0.05).
Conclusions
Sustainable PVI remains the cornerstone of the ablation strategy for PAF. Enhancements in the precise control of ablation catheter contact force, the achievement of adequate ablation lesion depth, and the improvement of catheter stability and continuity have the potential to significantly reduce procedural duration. Nonetheless, these advancements have not significantly enhanced the success rate of AF resolution following a single ablation procedure.
Value of APOB/APOA1 ratio in prediction of calcific aortic valve disease
Authors: yuxing Wang , ming Yu , song Yang , jiajie Mei , zhenzhu Liu , hong Geng zhao , wenli Xie , hongyan Wang , nan Niu , peng Qu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Calcific Aortic Valve Disease (CAVD) is a prevalent heart valve disease. The ratio of two apolipoproteins with distinct functions (APOB/APOA1) has been proposed as a novel assessment index for the evaluation of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this article is to discuss the role of lipids parameters such as APOB/APOA1 in CAVD and the risk factors for CAVD, to develop a predictive model for CAVD, and to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of this model.
Method: Patients who initially presented to the Department of Cardiology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University between 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2023 were retrospectively identified and included in the study. Patients were divided into an aortic valve calcification group (111 cases) and a control group (201 cases) based on CT findings. The patients' clinical data, laboratory examination results, and chest CT images were collected and analyzed. A variety of statistical methods were used to analyses risk factors for CAVD in order to construct a CAVD prediction model and to assess its sensitivity and specificity.
Results：Lipid parameters APOA1, APOB/APOA1, cumulative LDL exposure and non-HDL/HDL were significantly associated with aortic valve calcification. Age, history of diabetes, DBP, APOB/APOA1, Cys-c and NLR are identified as independent risk factors for CAVD, and the combination of the above indexes in the prediction of aortic valve calcification was 0.796, corresponding to a sensitivity of 0.769 and a specificity of 0.755.
Conclusion: APOA1, APOB/APOA1, cumulative LDL exposure, and Non-HDL/HDL have been demonstrated to be associated withCAVD. Furthermore, age, history of diabetes mellitus, DBP, APOB/APOA1, Cys-c, and NLR have been identified as valid predictors of CAVD.
“What makes them want to quit?” Motivational reasons for dropout of physics degree program and gender differences in expectations and values
Authors: Mumme Clara , Leipert Laura Marie , Vollmeyer Regina 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the predictive influences of expectations and values that may sustain students’ dropout intention in physics as well as gender differences in students' motivation and intention. Eccles’s expectancy-value model was used to frame the study. The academic self-concept (expectation component) and value components focused on utility value, intrinsic value, and study satisfaction (costs) were examined. A final sample of 61 students (31% female) enrolled in physics courses at a German public university participated. The study was conducted longitudinally with two measurement points within one semester. A regression model revealed that a lower academic self-concept in physics predicted students' intention to drop out. However, subjective values did not predict the dropout intention. With the data collected gender differences were also analyzed. It was found that females had a lower academic self-concept, and lower study satisfaction than males and saw less utility or intrinsic value in physics, while they did not want to drop out more often. The results highlight the need of closing the gap between male and female expectations and values regarding physics. Overall, the findings provide new insights into dropout intention and gender differences in physics. Implications of these findings are discussed.
LecB from Pseudomonas aeruginosa modulates Piezo1 currents and localization in a time-dependent manner
Authors: Kittel Anna-Sophia , Makshakova Olga Nikolaevna , Edel Nikita , Tomisch Jana , Aljohmani Ahmad , Yildiz Daniela , Peyronnet Remi , Römer Winfried 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Infections with the Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa are becoming increasingly difficult to treat due to growing antibiotic resistance. Complications often include disturbed wound healing and impaired cell migration of various cell types, including epithelial and immune cells in the host tissue. One bacterial virulence factor responsible for these effects is the carbohydrate-binding lectin LecB. It mediates adhesion to host cells, alters various cellular signaling pathways and internalizes several receptors, i.e. integrins. However, the full effects and mechanisms of how LecB influences the processes in the host cells are still largely unknown. In this study, we introduce a new host cell interaction partner of LecB with strong physiological impact. Using immunofluorescence and pull-down studies, we were able to show that LecB can interact with the cation nonselective mechanosensitive channel Piezo1, which is expressed in various cell types. Recording Piezo1 currents with the patch-clamp technique, we observed altered responses of Piezo1 to mechanical forces in presence of LecB. After 30 minutes of LecB incubation time, mechanically-induced Piezo1 currents were slightly higher compared to control, while after 3 hours they were greatly reduced. Computational modeling suggests protein-protein and protein-carbohydrate interactions between LecB and Piezo1. From a more general perspective, our results highlight ion channels and their glycosylation as targets for bacterial lectins, improving our understanding of host-pathogen interactions and the evolution of bacterial infections, and hopefully providing the basis for the development of new therapeutics to combat antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
Revisiting the Use of CK7 and CK20 Immunohistochemical Stains in Pathological Diagnoses
Authors: Wang Bangchen , Cardona Diana , Huang Jiaoti 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Cytokeratin-7 (keratin-7; CK7) and cytokeratin-20 (keratin-20; CK20) have been among the most widely used markers in pathology for prediction of tumor site of origin or classification. However, with the increased availability of newer and more specific biomarkers and molecular techniques, it is timely to revisit the utility of CK7 and CK20 stains under different clinical settings.
Methods: In the current study, we retrospectively reviewed 612 surgical pathology cases at our institution where CK7 and/or CK20 stains were performed and determined to what degree they contributed to the final diagnosis.
Results: In CK7-and-CK20 cases, the stains had a major contribution in 5% of the cases. In CK7-only or CK20-only cases, the percentages of major contribution were 34% and 69% respectively. However, when only cases where CK7/CK20 stains were used to determine tumor site of origin, the contributions become more comparable across all three case types, where CK7/CK20 stains had major contribution in < 10% of cases. Notably, 11% of CK7-and-CK20 cases had no specific or suggestive diagnosis, and 40% of CK7-and-CK20 cases had staining patterns inconsistent with the final diagnosis. Detailed analysis demonstrates that CK7 and CK20 stains, used singly, are most useful in the diagnosis of a limited number of pathologic entities with distinct CK7 or CK20 expression patterns.
Conclusions: Our results suggest that the coordinate expression of CK7 and CK20 is generally not helpful in arriving at the final diagnosis. Reducing unnecessary immunohistochemical stains will help mitigate the rising healthcare cost and preserve tissue for molecular testing.
Ophthalmic artery originating from a persistent primitive trigeminal artery
Authors: Nakadate Masashi , Sasaki Kazuma , Takano Issei , Takigawa Tomoji , Kubota Kazunori 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Ophthalmic artery (OphA) embryogenesis is a complex process with various origins. We describe herein a case in which the OphA stemmed from the persistent primitive trigeminal artery (PPTA), which has never been reported.
Methods: A man in his 70s was admitted to our hospital following the sudden onset of altered consciousness. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a cerebellar hemorrhage, brainstem compression, and hydrocephalus. The patient underwent emergency craniotomy for hematoma evacuation and decompression. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) was performed 14 days postoperatively to determine the source of the bleeding.
Results: DSA of the right vertebral artery revealed retrograde filling of the left PPTA, originating from the distal two-thirds of the basilar artery (BA) and extending to the cavernous segment of the left internal carotid artery as well as a small artery extending from the intermediate part of the PPTA into the orbit and passing through the superior orbital fissure (SOF).
Conclusion: This is the first reported case of the OphA originating from the PPTA. It is possible that the OphA traversing the SOF had an anastomosis with the primitive trigeminal artery (PTA) during the embryonic period. Persistence of only the BA side of the PTA results in the OphA originating from the BA, whereas persistence of only the ICA side results in the OphA originating from the meningohypophyseal trunk.
Association between sleep disturbance and hypertension: Mediation analysis involving Systemic Inflammatory Response Index in the NHANES
Authors: Chen Zhangrong , Cao Zhao Xing , Zhuo Fangfang , Huang Runze , Yan Fei , Xi Hu , Xia Guiling , Huang Cheng , Lu Ting , Pu Zhipeng 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Both hypertension and sleep disturbance have been closely linked to inflammation. However, the specific role of inflammation in the relationship between sleep disturbance and hypertension remains unclear. We investigated the pairwise associations among a novel inflammatory marker (systemic immune inflammation index), sleep disturbance, and hypertension in a powerful, racially diverse sample (n=23,414) from the 2005-2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). We found that participants with high blood pressure and/or sleep disorders had higher levels of SII than those without hypertension or sleep disorders. Sleep disturbance was positively associated with SII and hypertension even after taking into account a wide range of potential confounding factors (e.g., age, sex, body mass index). We found positive associations between SII and the prevalence of hypertension in this cross-sectional study.The SII mediated a marginal portion of the potential effects of sleep disturbance on hypertension. Our research showed that SII, sleep disturbance, and hypertension are related. Increased SII levels slightly mediated the association between sleep disturbance and hypertension.
Inferring stability and persistence in the vaginal microbiome: A stochastic model of ecological dynamics
Authors: Ponciano José M. , Forney Larry J. , Gómez Juan P. , Ravel Jacques 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The interplay of stochastic and ecological processes that govern the establishment and persistence of host-associated microbial communities is not well understood. Here we illustrate the conceptual and practical advantages of fitting stochastic population dynamics models to multi-species bacterial time series data. We show how the stability properties, fluctuation regimes and persistence probabilities of human vaginal microbial communities can be better understood by explicitly accommodating three sources of variability in ecological stochastic models of multi-species abundances: 1) stochastic biotic and abiotic forces, 2) ecological feedback and 3) sampling error. Rooting our modeling tool in stochastic population dynamics modeling theory was key to apply standardized measures of a community’s reaction to environmental variation that ultimately depends on the nature and intensity of the intra-specific and inter-specific interaction strengths. Using estimates of model parameters, we developed a Risk Prediction Monitoring (RPM) tool that estimates temporal changes in persistence probabilities for any bacterial group of interest. This method mirrors approaches that are often used in modern conservation biology in which a measure of extinction risks is periodically updated with any change in a population or community. Additionally, we show how to use estimates of interaction strengths and persistence probabilities to formulate hypotheses regarding the molecular mechanisms and genetic composition that underpin different types of interactions. Instead of seeking a definition of “dysbiosis” we propose to translate concepts of theoretical ecology and conservation biology methods into practical approaches for the management of human-associated bacterial communities.
Global, regional and national burden of thyroid cancer attribute to high body-mass index from 1990 to 2021 and forecast to 2049: insights from the global burden of disease 2021
Authors: Chen Ye-xin , Hong Han-zhang , Cui Gai-weng , Gao Zi-heng , Liu Jiang-teng , Zhao Yan , Zhao Jin-xi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most prevalent malignant endocrine cancer, presenting a considerable challenge to global health. Obesity and overweight are significant risk factors for the onset and advancement of thyroid cancer (TC), garnering heightened interest from researchers in recent years. This research aimed to reveal and predict the disease burden of thyroid cancer attributed to high body-mass index (TC-HBMI), which would offer significant references for focused prevention and disease management methods.
Methods: This research constituted an analysis of the Global Burden of Disease 2021 (GBD 2021). Deaths cases, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) cases, age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR) and age-standardized DALYs rates (ASDR) among different sexes, age groups, SDI regions, GBD regions and countries were obtained from GBD 2021 to assess the global burden from 1990 to 2021. Decomposition analysis explored the driving factors to TC-HBMI. Trends in the deaths cases, DALY cases, ASMR and ASDR due to TC from 1990 to 2021 were assessed by Joinpoint regression analysis. Bayesian age-period-cohort model was utilized to project the disease burden till 2049.
Results: In 2021, the global deaths and DALYs of TC-HBMI were 5,255 (95% UI: 3,914 to 6,653) and 144,955 (95% UI: 109,230 to 184,747), showing a notable increase compared to 1990. The Joinpoint model showed that the disease burden had continuously increased over the past 32 years, but the rate of growth had varied at different stages. The disease burden in females was higher than that in males, but the increase in disease burden for males had outpaced that of females over the past 32 years. In terms of age groups, the disease burden was higher among middle-aged and older populations and the age of onset tended to be younger. Regarding regions, the most significant growth was observed in low-middle socio-demographic index (SDI) areas, but the proportion of the disease burden from TC-HBMI among the overall TC disease burden was highest in high SDI and high-middle SDI regions. Additionally, Latin America should receive more attention for its highest disease burden among all GBD regions. Predictive models indicated that the cases of deaths and DALYs would reach an estimated 128,556 (95% CI, 39 to 26,772) and 318,523 (95% CI, 41,307.34 to 615,613.67) until 2049, showing a gradual upward trend from 2022 to 2049.
Conclusion: The research revealed that the global disease burden of TC-HBMI had continuously increased from 1990 to 2021, and it was predicted to escalate until 2049. The findings emphasize the need for more detailed TC screening and weight loss measures tailored to specific regions and populations, which would benefit efforts to curb the projected rise in TC-HBMI deaths and DALYs.