bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Deep learning models for MRI-based clinical decision support in cervical spine degenerative diseases
Authors: Li Kai-Yu , Lu Zhe-Yang , Tian Yu-Han , Liu Xiao-Peng , Zhang Ye-Kai , Qiu Jia-Wei , Li Hua-Lin , Zhang Yu-Long , Huang Jia-Wei , Ye Hao-Bo , Tian Nai Feng 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThe purpose of our study is to develop a deep learning (DL) model based on MRI and analyze its consistency with the treatment recommendations for degenerative cervical spine disorders provided by the spine surgeons at our hospital.MethodsIn this study, MRI of patients who were hospitalized for cervical spine degenerative disorders at our hospital from July 2023 to July 2024 were primarily collected. The dataset was divided into a training set, a validation set, and an external validation set. Four versions of the DL model were constructed. The external validation set was used to assess the consistency between the DL model and spine surgeons’ recommendations about indication of cervical spine surgery regarding the dataset.ResultsThis study collected a total of 756 MR images from 189 patients. The external validation set included 30 patients and a total of 120 MR images, consisting of 43 images for grade 0, 20 images for grade 1, and 57 images for grade 2. The region of interest (ROI) detection model completed the ROI detection task perfectly. For the binary classification (grades 0 and 1, 2), DL version 1 showed the best consistency with the spine surgeons, achieving a Cohen’s Kappa value of 0.874. DL version 4 also achieved nearly perfect consistency, with a Cohen’s Kappa value of 0.811. For the three-class classification, DL version 1 demonstrated the best consistency with the spine surgeons, achieving a Cohen’s Kappa value of 0.743, while DL version 2 and DL version 4 also showed substantial consistency, with Cohen’s Kappa values of 0.615 and 0.664, respectively.ConclusionWe initially developed deep learning algorithms that can provide clinical recommendations based on cervical spine MRI. The algorithm shows substantial consistency with experienced spine surgeons.
Glaucoma and dietary intake: a scoping review
Authors: Edokpa Genesis Daniel , McFarlane Shelly Rose-Marie 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionStudies have suggested that dietary intake may influence the incidence and progression of open-angle glaucoma. However, dietary modification is not usually included in the clinical management of glaucoma. The aim of this scoping review was therefore to map the evidence and determine the nature and extent of research done on “diet and glaucoma” and identify any gaps in this area of scholarship.Materials and methodsA comprehensive search of academic literature was conducted from two relevant electronic databases: PubMed and ScienceDirect. Primary studies that explored the relationship between dietary intake and glaucoma were included if the principal exposure was “diet” and if dietary habits were assessed with dietary questionnaires. The glaucoma outcomes of interest were visual field, retinal nerve fibre layer and/or optic nerve head features.ResultsNineteen studies were included in the final qualitative synthesis. The dates of publication ranged from 2003 to 2023. About 80% of the studies found some significant associations between glaucoma and dietary intake. However, most studies (95%) were observational, i.e., 7 (37%) used a cross-sectional design, 10 (53%) used a prospective cohort design; and 1 (or 5%) used a nested case–control study design. Only 1 study (or 5%) used a randomized intervention trial. Furthermore, while all studies investigated dietary intake with questionnaires, only 2 studies (or 11%) went further to include assessment of nutritional biomarkers.ConclusionAlthough miscellaneous evidence supports the concept that diet may play a role in glaucoma, most data are unfortunately observational without proven causality, reporting associations from subjective dietary questionnaires. More well-designed studies are required, especially randomized controlled trials that can prove causality.
Pathological features of the differentiation landscape in esophageal squamous cell cancer and their correlations with prognosis
Authors: Deng Jiaying , Zhang Lei , Wang Zezhou , Li Bin , Xiang Jiaqing , Ma Longfei , Zhu Hongcheng , Li Yuan , Zhao Kuaile 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundFor esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), universally accepted pathological criteria for classification by differentiation degree are lacking. Tumor budding, single-cell invasion, and nuclear grade, recognized as prognostic factors in other carcinomas, have rarely been investigated for their correlation with differentiation and prognosis in ESCC. This study aims to determine if pathological findings can predict differentiation degree and prognosis in ESCC.Patients and methodsThis study reviewed tumor slides from 326 patients who underwent surgery for ESCC between 2007 and 2012. Tumors were evaluated for subtypes, tumor nest size, tumor stroma, and nuclear grade (nuclear diameter and mitosis) across different differentiation groups. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, with group differences assessed using the stratified log-rank test and Cox proportional hazards model.ResultsThe mean values of tumor budding invasion margins in well, moderately, and poorly differentiated groups were 25.3%, 30.7%, and 36.3%, respectively. Mean tumor budding/10HPFs were 8.0, 10.3, and 13.0, respectively. Well-differentiated tumors showed more keratinizing subtypes, smaller tumor budding invasion margins, more Grade 1 tumor budding (0-4 cells), absence of single-cell invasion, larger nuclear diameter (≥5 lymphocytes), higher mitotic counts, more submucosal invasion, and less lymphovascular invasion. Conversely, poorly differentiated tumors exhibited opposite characteristics. Multivariate analyses identified the nuclear diameter as independent prognostic factors for OS and DFS.ConclusionsPathological features can stratify the differentiation landscape in ESCC patients. The nuclear diameter (4 lymphocytes) can help predict prognosis in ESCC than other pathological features.Implications for practiceWe first time report the mean values of tumor budding invasion margins and tumor budding/10HPF in well, moderately, and poorly differentiated groups for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. The landscape of well differentiation was depicted with more keratinizing subtypes, smaller tumor budding invasion margins, more Grade 1 tumor budding (0-4 cells), absence of single-cell invasion, larger nuclear diameter (≥5 lymphocytes), higher mitotic counts, and less lymphovascular invasion. The nuclear diameter as independent prognostic factors for prognosis. The findings indicate that pathological features can stratify the differentiation landscape in ESCC patients and offer novel insight into definition of well or moderately differentiation.
Improved survival of patients with newly diagnosed oligometastatic prostate cancer through intensified multimodal treatment
Authors: Schütz Viktoria , Nessler Christopher-Leo , Duensing Anette , Zschäbitz Stefanie , Jäger Dirk , Debus Jürgen , Hohenfellner Markus , Duensing Stefan 
Published: December 2024

Background and objectivesThe standard of care for patients with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) includes androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), novel antihormonal therapies (NHT) and/or chemotherapy. Patients with newly diagnosed oligometastatic prostate cancer (omPCa) represent a distinct subgroup of mHSPC, for which the optimal treatment, particularly the role of radical prostatectomy (RP) and metastasis-directed therapy (MDT), is currently under debate.Materials and methodsIn this single center, retrospective analysis, 43 patients with newly diagnosed omPCa were included. All patients underwent RP as part of a multimodal, personalized treatment approach. Other treatments included ADT, NHT, MDT (surgery or radiotherapy), adjuvant radiotherapy (prostatic fossa and/or pelvic lymph nodes) or chemotherapy in various combinations. Clinical endpoints were progression free and cancer specific survival (PFS, CSS).ResultsNo patient with omPCa died from prostate cancer during an up to ten years follow-up period after intensified multimodal treatment i.e., RP, ADT, adjuvant radiation therapy and MDT (n=13). In contrast, patients requiring chemotherapy (n=10) showed a significantly worse PFS (p&lt;0.001) and CSS (p&lt;0.001). Patients receiving various combinations (&lt;4 therapeutic modalities; n=20) showed a more favorable outcome than patients receiving chemotherapy, but differences in PFS and CSS were not statistically significant compared to patients receiving an intensified multimodal treatment.ConclusionsAn intensified, multimodal treatment approach including RP can lead to excellent survival outcomes in patients with newly diagnosed omPCa. Patients requiring chemotherapy have most likely a more aggressive disease and therefore a more rapid tumor progression. Future studies to identify markers for risk stratification in patients with omPCa are therefore needed.
Prevalence of FLT3 gene mutation and its expression in Brazilian pediatric B-ALL patients: clinical implications
Authors: Biojone Estefânia Rodrigues , Guido Bruna Cândido , Cavalcante Larissa Lemos Mendanha , Santos Júnior Agenor de Castro Moreira dos , Pontes Robéria Mendonça de , Furtado Felipe Magalhães , Córdoba José Carlos , Magalhães Isis Maria Quezado , de Oliveira Diêgo Madureira , Camargo Ricardo 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionThere is consistent evidence that FLT3 may be a driver gene in B-ALL and that selected cases may benefit from the use of FLT3 inhibitors. Our study was conducted to evaluate the frequency and types of FLT3 mutations in pediatric patients with B-ALL, the relative expression of this gene, and their influence on clinical evolution.MethodsWe evaluated 156 children with B-ALL treated between July 2018 and September 2023. Screening for FLT3 mutations was performed using RFLP and fragment analysis, while FLT3 expression was assessed by qPCR.ResultsFLT3-TKD and/or FLT3-JM-INDEL mutations were found in 8 patients (5.1%). We did not identify any ITD-type mutations. None of the patients with identified FLT3 mutations presented recurrent rearrangements in B-ALL or alterations in the IKZF1, PAX5, or ERG genes, suggesting that FLT3 mutation may serve as the driving mechanism for leukemia in these cases. Two (2/8) patients with FLT3 mutations experienced disease relapse. Although we did not observe FLT3 overexpression among patients with FLT3 mutations, FLT3 expression levels were higher in these patients compared to WT patients. Four FLT3-WT patients presented FLT3 overexpression, defined as RQ &gt; 10. FLT3 mutations or overexpression were not associated with relapses or survival rates.DiscussionOur findings do not support the inclusion of FLT3 as a routine marker in the risk stratification of B-ALL patients; nevertheless, FLT3 alterations may be relevant for guiding personalized treatment approaches in specific clinical contexts.
Efficacy and safety of TACE combined with traditional Chinese medicine versus TACE alone in hepatocellular carcinoma: bayesian network meta-analysis and pharmacological mechanisms study
Authors: Chen Li , Zhu Xiu-Ling , Lin Jie , Li Dong-Liang 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThis study investigates the clinical benefits of integrating traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment via meta-analysis and an exploration of network pharmacology analysis (NPA).MethodsA comprehensive search across different databases retrieved all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating TCM combined with TACE for HCC. Meta-analysis included 39 RCTs to assess the intervention effects. The bayesian network meta-analysis observed the relative efficacy and potential ranking of various interventions. Active compounds and target genes from frequently used TCM were sourced from the TCMSP database, while HCC disease targets were collected from five public disease databases. Regulatory networks connecting target genes with active components of key herbs were constructed. Following the identification of key genes, we conducted analyses of Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) to enrich our understanding of their functions. NPA and molecular docking methods were refined to reveal potential interactions between TCM components and their specific targets.ResultsThe combination of TCM with TACE significantly enhances the efficacy and safety of HCC treatment, improving the overall response rate, disease control rate, and overall survival rate, while also reducing the incidence of adverse events. Among the TCM evaluated, Ganfu Formula proved to be the most effective in enhancing patient response rates. Analysis of all included medicinal herbs identified 10 pivotal TCMs and 17 core genes. GO analysis revealed their significance in protein interactions, whereas KEGG analysis highlighted their role in crucial oncological pathways. NPA and molecular docking techniques elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action of TCM components.ConclusionAdding TCM to TACE protocols significantly enhances treatment outcomes and safety in HCC patients by modulating tumor biology and systemic immune responses, highlighting its potential as an effective adjunct therapy. These findings support the inclusion of TCM in standard care regimens, offering potential for improved management of HCC.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024571280.
Diagnostic value of the isoenzymatic index of lactate dehydrogenase in blood serum in a special process for training cadet pilots
Authors: Wochyński Zbigniew , Majsterek Ireneusz , Gerszon Joanna , Wojtczak Radosław , Kabziński Jacek , Błaszczyk Jan , Sobiech Krzysztof A. , Jabłońska Ewa , Ratajczak-Wrona Wioletta 
Published: December 2024

ObjectivesSpecial aerial gymnastics instruments (SAGI) are permanent elements of specialist training for cadet pilots. Appropriate physical activity and fitness are essential for performing the tasks of military pilots. Therefore, one of the main goals of cadet training is to develop adaptation to the extreme conditions of a military pilot’s work. This study aimed to determine the effect of the SAGI training process for cadet pilots on their aldolase and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, LDH enzymatic index (iZO), C-reactive protein (CRP) and haptoglobin (HP) levels, and physical fitness.Material and MethodsParticipating in this study were 55 cadets, aged 20 ± 0.70 years, in two groups. In group A (n = 41, tested) cadets were trained on SAGI with an emphasis on endurance and strength. In group B (n = 14, control), the cadets performed general fitness training. Blood samples were collected before and after training series I, II, and III. LDH and its isoenzyme activity, aldolase, CRP, and HP levels were assayed in blood serum using commercially available tests, and the iZO value was calculated.ResultsA downward trend was observed in HP and CRP levels in both groups after all three training series. In group A after training, LDH and aldolase activity was lower than in group B. However, in both groups, a significant increase of iZO values was observed after training series II and III in group A, p &lt; 0.001, p &lt; 0.05, respectively, and in group B, p &lt; 0.05 and p &lt; 0.0005, respectively. Physical fitness also improved in both groups.ConclusionThe course of the SAGI exercises showed that the iZO value depends on physical exercise intensity, its type, and cadet adaptation.
A novel method for quantitative analysis of subjective experience reports: application to psychedelic visual experiences
Authors: Noah Sean , Shen Miranda , Erowid Earth , Erowid Fire , Silver Michael 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionPsychedelic compounds such as LSD, psilocybin, mescaline, and DMT can dramatically alter visual perception. However, the extent to which visual effects of psychedelics consistently vary for different substances is an open question. The visual effects of a given psychedelic compound can range widely both across and within individuals, so datasets with large numbers of participants and descriptions of qualitative effects are required to adequately address this question with the necessary sensitivity.MethodsHere we present an observational study with narrative self-report texts, leveraging the massive scale of the Erowid experience report dataset. We analyzed reports associated with 103 different psychoactive substances, with a median of 217 reports per substance. Thirty of these substances are standardly characterized as psychedelics, while 73 substances served as comparison substances. To quantitatively analyze these semantic data, we associated each sentence in the self-report dataset with a vector representation using an embedding model from OpenAI, and then we trained a classifier to identify which sentences described visual effects, based on the sentences’ embedding vectors.ResultsWe observed that the proportion of sentences describing visual effects varies significantly and consistently across substances, even within the group of psychedelics. We then analyzed the distributions of psychedelics’ visual effect sentences across different categories of effects (for example, movement, color, or pattern), again finding significant and consistent variation.DiscussionOverall, our findings indicate reliable variation across psychedelic substances’ propensities to affect vision and in their qualitative effects on visual perception.
Psychometric properties of comprehensive cognitive, affective, and psychomotor competency assessment scales in psychodynamic psychotherapy for borderline personality disorder
Authors: Lukman Petrin Redayani , Wiguna Tjhin , Soemantri Diantha , Menaldi Sri Linuwih , Elvira Sylvia Detri , Sutanto Limas , Sapiie Tuti Wahmurti A. , Kekalih Aria , Noviasari Reina Rahma , Rizki Hukma Shabiyya , Giyani Kharisma Zatalini 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundPsychodynamic psychotherapy is a type of psychotherapy for individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). However, competency in conducting effective psychodynamic psychotherapy for BPD is difficult to evaluate. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the psychometric properties of a comprehensive scale to assess cognitive, affective, and psychomotor competencies (CS-CAPC) in psychodynamic psychotherapy for BPD.MethodsThis is a qualitative study. The first step used the Delphi technique to gather experts’ opinions on the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor competencies necessary to conduct psychodynamic psychotherapy for BPD. The experts comprised three psychotherapists, seven psychiatrists with experience in psychotherapy, and nine teaching staff. A panel discussion was conducted to obtain qualitative data. Thematic data analysis was adopted, and content validity testing was used to analyze the content validity of the CS-CAPC in psychodynamic psychotherapy for BPD.ResultsThe CS-CAPC comprised two scales assessing two specific competencies in psychodynamic psychotherapy for BPD: The first scale, the psychodynamic formulation competency assessment scale (PF-CAS), comprised six items, including the case description, etiology, and potential course of therapy. The second scale, the practical-competency assessment scale (PC-CAS) for psychodynamic psychotherapy for BPD, comprised 12 items, including building a therapeutic alliance, performing psychodynamic interventions while working through the therapeutic process, and closing the session. The scale-level content validity index (S-CVI) for the PF-CAS was 0.981, and that for the PC-CAS in psychodynamic psychotherapy for BPD was 1.00.ConclusionThe CS-CAPC in psychodynamic psychotherapy for BPD had good validity in assessing individual competency in the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains.
Young and adult patients with gaming disorder: Psychiatric co-morbidities and progression of problematic gaming
Authors: Hofstedt Annika , Söderpalm Gordh Anna 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundPrevious research suggests age-dependent differences in the progression of addiction, and evidence is accumulating, showing that an early initiation of gaming increases the risk for addiction. With the recent introduction of gaming disorder (GD) as a psychiatric diagnosis, there is a need to extend the knowledge of the clinical characteristics of patients seeking treatment for GD of all age groups. Compared to adolescents and young adults, less is known about treatment-seeking adults. This study aimed to investigate whether there are clinically relevant age-dependent differences among patients seeking treatment for GD.MethodParticipants were recruited among patients seeking treatment and fulfilling diagnosis for GD at an outpatient clinic specialized in the treatment of GD. During the study period, 142 patients went through assessment for GD at the clinic, 37 did not fulfill the diagnosis for GD, and 36 declined participation, leaving a sample of 69 patients (age range = 15–56) for analysis. The sample (men, n = 66; women, n = 3) was divided in two age groups: adolescents and young adults (25 years or younger) and adults (26 years or older). Gaming-related data and information about psychiatric co-morbidity was collected through structured clinical interviews and questionnaires.ResultsThe adolescents and young adults (AYAs) reported a more rapid progression into problematic gaming than the adult group. The younger group developed problematic gaming four years faster than the adults. We also observed comparable clinical profiles in both groups. Both age groups had similar levels of GD as well as symptoms of psychiatric co-morbidities including possible attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and problematic gambling. We also noticed that half of our study population consisted of adults.ConclusionWith the increasing prevalence of gaming in all age groups, it is unknown how the occurrence of GD will develop in different stages of life. We conclude that the adolescents and young adults had almost double as fast progression to problematic gaming than the adult group, highlighting the need for preventive strategies. The similarity in clinical profiles indicates that treatments with the same type of interventions could be offered to both age groups.