bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cone-Beam Computed Tomography as a Tool in Analyzing Asymmetry of Facial Soft Tissue
Authors: Ferreira Geovane Miranda , Evangelista Karine , Ruellas Antônio Carlos Oliveira , Valladares-Neto José , Bueno Juliano Martins , Cevidanes Lucia Helena Soares , Silva Maria Alves Garcia 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective
This study aimed to evaluate the asymmetry of the facial soft tissue in conjunction with skeletal tissue using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).
Materials and Methods
CBCT images of 39 individuals were evaluated and divided into symmetric (< 2mm) and asymmetric (> 2mm) groups based on mandibular deviation in relation to the midline sagittal plane. The groups were paired according to the anteroposterior skeletal pattern, sex, and age. The facial soft tissue was delimited and segmented into 8 different parts (left and right sides of the upper lip, lower lip, zygoma, and mandible) using facial landmarks as a reference, followed by reconstruction of its total volume. The mirroring method between the sides of the face was used for bone and soft tissues, followed by registration of images by voxel superimposition to visualize the differences between the sides. Volumetric differences were quantified between the right and left sides using paired comparison tests. The distances between soft and skeletal middle landmarks were established to verify the alignment of the skeletal and soft midsagittal plane. The reliability of mirroring in soft tissues and the method error was assessed by measuring the distance between the Glabella soft (Gl’) and Subnasal (Sn) landmarks of the original and mirrored samples.
Results
The results showed that the landmarks presented an average 3D deviation of 0.86 mm (Gl’), 0.74 mm (Sn), 0.19 mm (Gl’), and 0.45 mm (Sn), respectively. The intra- and inter-examiner values showed agreement above 0.75. Group comparisons revealed misalignment of soft and hard tissue midsagittal planes in 67% of the total sample but no significant differences in bone-soft tissue landmark distances or left-right volumetric differences within either the symmetric or asymmetric group. However, the asymmetric group showed a tendency for greater differences, especially in the lower facial third.
Conclusion
The volumetric assessment of soft tissues using 3D models based on CBCT is a valid and reliable method that can be employed to identify asymmetries and plan surgical and minimally invasive interventions on the face.
Clinical relevance:
The assessment of soft tissues by 3D models can potentially improve diagnosis, planning and outcomes of orthodontic and surgical treatment of facial asymmetries.
Preoperative CT Lymph Node Size as a Predictor of Nodal Metastasis in Resectable Colon Cancer: A Retrospective Study of 694 Patients
Authors: Kawazoe Tetsuro , Nakanishi Ryota , Ando Koji , Zaitsu Yoko , Kudou Kensuke , Nakashima Yuichiro , Oki Eiji , Yoshizumi Tomoharu 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of measuring lymph node size on preoperative CT imaging to predict pathological lymph node metastasis in patients with colon cancer to enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve treatment planning by establishing more reliable assessment methods for lymph node metastasis.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 1,056 patients who underwent colorectal resection at our institution between January 2004 and March 2020. From this cohort, 694 patients with resectable colon cancer were included in the study. We analyzed the relationship between lymph node size on preoperative CT imaging and lymph node metastasis identified on postoperative pathological examination.
Results
The optimal cutoff values for the maximum long diameter and short diameter of regional lymph nodes on preoperative CT were identified as 6.5 mm and 5.5 mm, respectively, with an AUC of 0.7794 and 0.7755, respectively. Notably, the predictive accuracy varied by tumor location. Higher cutoff values were observed in the right-sided colon (maximum long diameter: 7.7 mm, maximum short diameter: 5.9 mm) compared to the left-sided colon (maximum long diameter: 5.8 mm, maximum short diameter: 5.2 mm).
Conclusion
Lymph node size on preoperative CT is a significant predictor of pathological lymph node metastasis in colon cancer. Notably, the optimal cutoff values for predicting lymph node metastasis vary depending on the specific region within the colon.
Legal Assist AI-Leveraging Transformer based Model for Effective Legal Assistance
Authors: Gupta Jatin , Sharma Akhil , Singhania Saransh , Abidi Ali Imam 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Pursuit of accessible legal assistance in India faces a critical gap, as many citizens struggle to leverage their legal rights due to limited awareness and access to relevant legal information. This paper introduces Legal Assist AI, a transformer-based model designed to bridge this gap by offering effective legal assistance through large language models (LLMs). The system leverages advanced natural language processing (NLP) techniques to analyze and respond to both subjective and objective legal queries, catering to diverse users such as legal professionals, scholars, and the general public. The model was fine-tuned on extensive datasets from the Indian legal domain, including the Lawyer_GPT_India and All India Bar Examination (AIBE) dataset, providing a robust understanding of the complexities of Indian law. The model was evaluated against state-of-the-art models such as GPT-3.5 Turbo and Mistral 7B, achieving a 60.08% score on the AIBE, outperforming its competitors in legal reasoning and accuracy. Unlike other models, Legal Assist AI avoided common issues such as hallucinations, making it highly reliable for practical legal applications. It showcases the model's applicability in real-world legal scenarios, with future iterations aiming to enhance performance and expanding its dataset to cover a broader range of multilingual, and case-specific queries as well.
The impact of TP53 co-mutation on the clinical outcomes of advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients with EGFR sensitizing mutation: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective clinical trials and a single-center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huang Wenshu , Wei Huiting , Jiang Wei , Su Cuiyun , Zhao Yun , He Jianbo , Tan Liping , Chen Shubin , Zhou Shaozhang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The currently updated research was conducted in order to determine the effect of TP53 co-mutation on the clinical outcomes of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer who also had EGFR-sensitizing mutation.
Methods
We used the MINORS Methodological items for non-comparative single-arm clinical research, and for eligible randomized clinical trials (RCTs), we used the Cochrane risk of bias instrument. Outcomes including progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were extracted for further analysis. A total of 164 advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients were enrolled in the study. The prognostic value of TP53 mutation status for PFS and OS was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox's proportional hazards regression model.
Results
A pooled incidence of TP53 co-mutation was 49.6%. With regard to survival analysis, patients with no TP53 mutation showed a significantly longer PFS (HR = 0.66; 95% CI = 0.57–0.76; P < 0.0001), in the meantime, meta-analysis demonstrated a significantly shorter OS in patients harboring concurrent TP53 mutation treated with EGFRTKIs (HR = 0.61; 95% CI = 0.51–0.74; P < 0.0001). Mutations in exon 4 or 7 of TP53 served as independent worse prognostic factors for disease progression compared with no TP53 co-mutation (HR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.56–3.97, P < 0.001) and the others TP53 mutation (HR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.46–3.86, P < 0.001).
Conclusion
Individuals with advanced NSCLC who also had TP53 co-mutation had worse shorter PFS and OS. Particularly, TP53 exon 4 or exon 7 mutations suggest a poorer prognosis.
Sexual dysfunction and quality of life in cervical and endometrial cancer patients before and after low-dose-rate brachytherapy: a cohort study from Northeast Mexico.
Authors: Alcorta Celia B. González , Garza Adelina Alcorta , Sánchez Daneli Ruiz , Martínez Blanca Angélica Soto , Núñez Fernando Alcorta , Reynoso Itzel Lidey Galaviz , Sierra Paola A. López , Guerrero Juan Francisco González , Gutiérrez Oscar Vidal 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background and objective. The available research on low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy in gynecology cancer has focused mainly on treatment toxicity. It does not include aspects such as sexual desire, sexual arousal, orgasm, satisfaction, or quality of life. This study assessed sexual function and quality of life before and after LDR brachytherapy in cervical and endometrial cancer patients. We also identified risk factors that contribute to the loss of sexual function and those associated with an improvement in quality of life 3–6 months post-brachytherapy.Methods. We prospectively followed a cohort of patients with a histopathological diagnosis of cervical and endometrial cancer treated with LDR intracavitary brachytherapy between February 2020 and November 2022 (n = 139). We used the SyDSF-AP, FACT-G, PHQ-9, and PHQ-15 scales collected through a self-administered questionnaire before and 3–6 months after treatment. The incidence rates were estimated. Binary and ordinal multiple logistic regression were used to examine risk factors for sexual dysfunction (coded as yes vs. no) and quality of life (coded as worsened, remained poor or fair, improved) after LDR brachytherapy, respectively.Results. The incidence of sexual dysfunction was 14.4%, with 30% of individuals already experiencing sexual dysfunction at baseline. Higher education decreased the likelihood of starting or maintaining sexual dysfunction (adjusted odds ratio 0.10, 95% CI 0.01, 0.97). Physical well-being improved after treatment (69.3 ± 24.1 vs 78.7 ± 20.2, p < 0.001; effect size = 0.34). Age, major depression, and sexual dysfunction reduced the likelihood of starting or maintaining a good quality of life.Conclusions. More than 1 in 10 patients developed sexual dysfunction and physical well-being was the only area that improved after treatment. Schooling was associated with sexual dysfunction. In contrast, age, depression, and sexual dysfunction negatively impact quality of life. Research in this area helps increase awareness and understanding of how healthcare providers can better support sexual and health-related well-being.
Osteonecrosis modulates extracellular matrix deposition through collagen I deposition in obese rats via the TGF-β protein
Authors: Lima Wilson José de Miranda , Pontes Jannerson Cesar Xavier , Araújo Rubens Silva , Sousa Maria Carolina Paiva , Pessoa Wallace Felipe Blohem , Alves Adriano Francisco 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Osteonecrosis, characterized by the death of bone tissue in the jaws, is termed bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (BRONJ) when caused by bisphosphonate use. Obesity, a significant public health issue, has been associated with both BRONJ and other oral conditions, such as caries and periodontitis, highlighting the relationship between systemic factors and oral health. This study investigated the influence of TGF-ß, TNF-α, and collagen I on bone tissue and their correlation with mandibular osteonecrosis in obese rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) were divided into four groups: healthy, osteonecrotic, obese, and obese with osteonecrosis. Osteonecrosis was induced with zoledronic acid (250 µg/kg), which was administered weekly for eight weeks, combined with tooth extraction, while obesity was induced by a high-glycemic diet. The analyses revealed that, compared with the patients in the osteonecrosis group, the obese group with osteonecrosis had a 67.99% increase in the necrotic area, whereas the obese group had a 43.85% reduction. The healthy group had the largest reduction (97.11%). For TNF-α, there was intense staining in the osteonecrosis (27.59 ± 7.65 µm²) and obese (25.52 ± 8.31 µm²) groups, whereas the level of TGF-β was greater in the obese with osteonecrosis group (44.98 ± 3.93 µm²). Collagen I staining was more intense in healthy animals. The potential interaction between TGF-ß, TNF-α, and collagen I in bone tissue may be essential for understanding bone remodeling; however, further studies are needed to explore these mechanisms.
Characteristics Analysis of Multifocal Electroretinogram in Non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Li Ziwei , Cui Yan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
To investigate multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) changes in non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) patients compared to normal people, and to clarify the differences in changes across various regions of the retina.
Methods
We selected 18 healthy individuals (22 eyes) and 26 NPDR patients (45 eyes), using the RETscan device for mfERG examination. We analyzed mfERG results for amplitude density and latency of P1 and N1 waves in five rings and four quadrants centered on the fovea.
Results
In the normal group, mfERG amplitude density decreased from the fovea outward, with significant differences between rings (P < 0.05). The NPDR group showed reduced amplitude density and longer latencies compared to the normal group, particularly in rings 1–2 for P1 wave amplitude density and in all rings for N1 and P1 wave latencies (P < 0.05). In quadrant analysis, the NPDR group had greater P1 amplitude density in the superonasal quadrant and shorter N1 latency in the superotemporal quadrant compared to other areas (P < 0.05). However, in normal individuals, we did not find any differences in retinal function among 4 quadrants.
Conclusions
Both normal and NPDR individuals show a decline in retinal nerve function from the foveal center to the periphery. Retinal function in normals is affected by age, but not in NPDR patients, which only correlates with BCVA. NPDR patients exhibit early and severe damage to nerve cells near the fovea, with the inferotemporal retina being more susceptible than other regions.
Screening of Natural Compounds as Inhibitor of Mpro SARS-CoV-2 Protein; A
Molecular Dynamics Approach
Authors: Javaid Anum , Bibi Nousheen , Mahmood Malik Siddique , Batool Hina , Batool Sana , Hamid Arslan , Saleem Mahjabeen , Ashraf Naeem Mahmood , Afsar Tayyaba , Almajwal Ali , Razak Suhail 
Published: November 2024

Background:
New strains of SARS-CoV-2 are continually emerging worldwide. Recently, WHO
warned of a severe new wave in Europe. Current vaccines cannot fully prevent reinfection in vaccinated individuals.

Aim:
Given this issue, recent research focuses on new antiviral candidates with high efficacy and minimal
side effects.

Objectives:
Screen natural compounds as inhibitors of Mpro SARS-CoV-2 protein using molecular dynamics.

Methods:
In this study, we have screened the potential of plant-based natural anti-viral compounds. A library
of the 579 compounds was generated using currently available literature and online databases. All these compounds
were screened based on their binding affinities as predicted by molecular docking analysis and compounds
having binding affinity values ≤ -10 Kcal/mol were considered for analysis. Furthermore, from physicochemical
assessment, drug-likeness initially nine compounds were identified as the antiviral targets for the
selected viral proteins. After ADMET analysis and simulations, the compound 9064 with the lowest RMSD,
Coul-SR interaction energy (-71.53 kJ/mol), and LJ-SR energy (-95.32 kJ/mol) was selected as the most stable
drug candidate against COVID-19 main protease Mpro.

Results:
The ΔG value, calculated using MMGBSA also revealed strong binding of the compound with Mpro.
The selected antiviral compound 9064 is an antioxidant flavonoid (Catechin or Cianidanol), which was previously
known to have significant immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Conclusion:
Considering the limitations of currently available vaccines, our study may provide new insight
into potential drugs that may prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans.
Identifying Safeguards Disabled by Epstein-Barr Virus Infections in Genomes From Patients With Breast Cancer: Chromosomal Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Friedenson Bernard 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
The causes of breast cancer are poorly understood. A potential risk factor is Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a lifelong infection nearly everyone acquires. EBV-transformed human mammary cells accelerate breast cancer when transplanted into immunosuppressed mice, but the virus can disappear as malignant cells reproduce. If this model applies to human breast cancers, then they should have genome damage characteristic of EBV infection.

Objective
This study tests the hypothesis that EBV infection predisposes one to breast cancer by causing permanent genome damage that compromises cancer safeguards.

Methods
Publicly available genome data from approximately 2100 breast cancers and 25 ovarian cancers were compared to cancers with proven associations to EBV, including 70 nasopharyngeal cancers, 90 Burkitt lymphomas, 88 diffuse large B-cell lymphomas, and 34 gastric cancers. Calculation algorithms to make these comparisons were developed.

Results
Chromosome breakpoints in breast and ovarian cancer clustered around breakpoints in EBV-associated cancers. Breakpoint distributions in breast and EBV-associated cancers on some chromosomes were not confidently distinguished (P>.05), but differed from controls unrelated to EBV infection. Viral breakpoint clusters occurred in high-risk, sporadic, and other breast cancer subgroups. Breakpoint clusters disrupted gene functions essential for cancer protection, which remain compromised even if EBV infection disappears. As CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)–like reminders of past infection during evolution, EBV genome fragments were found regularly interspaced between Piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA) genes on chromosome 6. Both breast and EBV-associated cancers had inactivated genes that guard piRNA defenses and the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) locus. Breast and EBV-associated cancer breakpoints and other variations converged around the highly polymorphic MHC. Not everyone develops cancer because MHC differences produce differing responses to EBV infection. Chromosome shattering and mutation hot spots in breast cancers preferentially occurred at incorporated viral sequences. On chromosome 17, breast cancer breakpoints that clustered around those in EBV-mediated cancers were linked to estrogen effects. Other breast cancer breaks affected sites where EBV inhibits JAK-STAT and SWI-SNF signaling pathways. A characteristic EBV-cancer gene deletion that shifts metabolism to favor tumors was also found in breast cancers. These changes push breast cancer into metastasis and then favor survival of metastatic cells.

Conclusions
EBV infection predisposes one to breast cancer and metastasis, even if the virus disappears. Identifying this pathogenic viral damage may improve screening, treatment, and prevention. Immunizing children against EBV may protect against breast, ovarian, other cancers, and potentially even chronic unexplained diseases.
The Significance of a Cerebrovascular Accident Outcome Prediction Model for Patients, Family Members, and Health Care Professionals: Qualitative Evaluation Study
Authors: Allaart Corinne G , van Houwelingen Sanne , Hilkens Pieter HE , van Halteren Aart , Biesma Douwe H , Dijksman Lea , van der Nat Paul B 
Published: November 2024

Background
Patients with cerebrovascular accident (CVA) should be involved in setting their rehabilitation goals. A personalized prediction of CVA outcomes would allow care professionals to better inform patients and informal caregivers. Several accurate prediction models have been created, but acceptance and proper implementation of the models are prerequisites for model adoption.

Objective
This study aimed to assess the added value of a prediction model for long-term outcomes of rehabilitation after CVA and evaluate how it can best be displayed, implemented, and integrated into the care process.

Methods
We designed a mock-up version, including visualizations, based on our recently developed prediction model. We conducted focus groups with CVA patients and informal caregivers, and separate focus groups with health care professionals (HCPs). Their opinions on the current information management and the model were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. Lastly, a Measurement Instrument for Determinants of Innovations (MIDI) questionnaire was used to collect insights into the prediction model and visualizations with HCPs.

Results
The analysis of 6 focus groups, with 9 patients, 4 informal caregivers, and 8 HCPs, resulted in 10 themes in 3 categories: evaluation of the current care process (information absorption, expectations of rehabilitation, prediction of outcomes, and decision aid), content of the prediction model (reliability, relevance, and influence on the care process), and accessibility of the model (ease of understanding, model type preference, and moment of use). We extracted recommendations for the prediction model and visualizations. The results of the questionnaire survey (9 responses, 56% response rate) underscored the themes of the focus groups.

Conclusions
There is a need for the use of a prediction model to assess CVA outcomes, as indicated by the general approval of participants in both the focus groups and the questionnaire survey. We recommend that the prediction model be geared toward HCPs, as they can provide the context necessary for patients and informal caregivers. Good reliability and relevance of the prediction model will be essential for its wide adoption.