bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Safety of Spinal Surgery in Patients over 80 Years of Age: Propensity Score Matching Study
Authors: Bang Chungwon , Kwon Kihyun , Ahn Joonghyun , Kim Young-Hoon 
Published: November 2024

Study Design Retrospective cohort study. Objectives Using propensity match score to remove those confounding bias and focuses on age factor to compare clinical outcomes and perioperative complications following spinal surgery in cohort of Korean octogenarians treated at a single tertiary hospital. Methods We classified patients of 80s as the octogenarian group (group O), those 65 and older, and under 80 as the elderly group (group E). We strategically employed the Propensity Score Matching (PSM) analysis as a method to counteract potential confounding variables. 1: 1 nearest-neighbor PSM for fusion level, estimated blood loss (EBL), transfusion, body mass index (BMI), American society of anesthesiologists (ASA) score, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) surgical method and operation time was performed. After PSM, 98 patients are categorized each group evenly (group O, n = 49 vs group E, n = 49). Demographics, clinical, radiologic and postoperative complications were analyzed. Results The clinical outcomes showed no significant differences in the VAS and ODI preoperatively or postoperatively. And most of hospitalization related factors shows no differences between 2 groups. However, follow-up period was longer in group E (1053.37 ± 684.14 days) than group O (640.29 ± 496.68, P = 0.001) and group O has higher incidences of medical complication (38.77% vs 16.32%, P = 0.013), especially in delirium (34.69% vs 6.12%, P = 0.001) than group E. Conclusions With the preparation for the prevention and treatment of postoperative delirium, age itself should not be a reason to hesitate in performing the spinal surgery.
Differential DNA methylation profiles of Alzheimer's disease-related genomic pathways in the blood of cognitively-intact individuals with and without high impact chronic pain
Authors: Strath Larissa J , Meng Lingsong , Zhang Yutao , Rani Asha , Huo Zhiguang , Foster Thomas C , Fillingim Roger B , Cruz-Almeida Yenisel 
Published: November 2024

Background Chronic pain and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are prevalent in older age and their etiologies remain to be understoodand evidence supports potential associations between the two. Both high impact pain and AD have been previously associated with differences in the epigenome. Interactions with the epigenome may serve as a possible underlying mechanism linking high impact pain and AD. Objective To complete epigenetic canonical pathways analyses related to AD in individuals with and without high-impact knee pain. Methods This manuscript aimed to explore differences in DNA methylation patterns in genes and pathways associated with AD. Blood samples of cognitively intact, community-dwelling adults with high impact knee painmversus pain-free controls were compared on their DNA methylation levels of AD-related genes. Pathway enrichment analysis was performed on significantly different DNA Methylation probes by pain group. Results There were significant DNA methylation differences between the high impact versus the pain-free control groups in genes and pathways associated with AD (p < 0.05). We found a total of 17,563 differentially methylated CpG probes, including 13,411 hypermethylated CpG probes and 4152 hypomethylated CpG probes. Further, pathway analysis revealed these differences were significantly associated with AD-related pathways associated with AD progression. Conclusions This study sample showed AD-related DNA methylation differences and associated potential canonical pathways in those with and without high impact knee pain. These results highlight the need to study overlapping epigenetic modifications underlying high impact pain and AD pathologies. Further studies, including gene expression, are needed to further explore the relationship between epigenetics, chronic pain, and AD.
The association between activities and cognitive health: Stratified analysis by APOE ε4 status
Authors: Lee Yeonjung Jane , Gonzales Ernest , Wu Yanyan , Braun Kathryn L , Martin Peter , Willcox Bradley , Andel Ross 
Published: November 2024

Background Despite the growing evidence on the modifiable and genetic factors associated with cognitive health, little is known about the role of the apolipoprotein E ( APOE) gene ε4 allele in the associations between productive or leisure activities and cognitive health. Objective This study fills a gap of knowledge by examining the associations among employment, civic engagement, and leisure activities and cognitive health by the presence of APOE ε4 allele, an established risk factor of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods Using pooled data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) Psychosocial and Lifestyle Questionnaires (2010–2016) and the HRS data on APOE ε4 alleles, linear regression models with a lagged dependent variable were performed to examine associations between productive or leisure activities and cognitive functioning at the follow-up time point, as well as the role of APOE ε4 in these associations. Results Among all participants, employment, low or high-intensity volunteering, and cognitive/social leisure activities were associated with higher levels of cognitive functioning. The presence of at least one ε4 allele was related to poorer cognitive functioning at the follow-up time point. Among people without the APOE ε4 allele, employment, high-intensity volunteering, and cognitive/social leisure activities were significantly associated with cognitive functioning. Among people with at least one APOE ε4 allele, low-intensity volunteering and cognitive/physical leisure activities were significantly associated with better cognitive functioning. Conclusions We found that employment, civic engagement, and leisure activities all contribute to cognitive health, although the benefits may be restricted to low-intensity volunteering and cognitive/physical leisure activities among individuals with at least one APOE ε4 allele, who are known to be inherently at a greater risk of AD, highlighting an avenue to a relatively easily implementable strategy to promote cognitive health in this subpopulation.
Association between dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and liver cancer: A Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Li Tianze , Yi Jianwei , Hu Xuliang , Wu Huajun , Wang Kai , Zhou Binghai 
Published: November 2024

Background Epidemiological studies have indicated an inverse association between neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. However, the relationship between liver cancer and dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease (AD), remains underexplored. Objective This study aimed to determine the association between dementia, specifically AD, and liver cancer using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Methods We conducted a bidirectional, two-sample MR analysis using publicly available genome-wide association studies data. The inverse-variance weighted method was employed as the primary analytical approach. To detect and correct for the effects of horizontal pleiotropy, we applied three complementary methods: MR Egger, weighted median, and Maximum likelihood. Results The analysis indicated significant associations between dementia and a reduced risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (OR: 0.87; 95%CI: 0.81–0.95; p < 0.001) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) (OR: 0.81; 95%CI: 0.72–0.92; p < 0.001). AD was significantly associated with a decreased risk of HCC (OR: 0.94; 95%CI: 0.88–0.99; p = 0.033), ICC (OR: 0.85; 95%CI: 0.78–0.93; p < 0.001), and combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (CHC) (OR: 0.64; 95%CI: 0.43–0.93; p = 0.020). Conversely, inverse MR analyses indicated that ICC was associated with increased dementia risk (OR: 1.05; 95%CI: 1.01–1.09; p = 0.019) and CHC with increased AD risk (OR: 1.03; 95%CI: 1.00–1.04; p = 0.014). Conclusions This study suggests that dementia, particularly AD, is associated with a reduced risk of liver cancer. Conversely, liver cancer may be associated with a slightly increased risk of developing dementia and AD, although some observational studies have reported a lower risk of these conditions among cancer survivors.
Swallowing assessments: A unique methodology to enhance medical research
Authors: Solomon Beth I , Muñoz Andrea M , Sinaii Ninet , Mohamed Hibaaq O , King Monique , Dang Do An , Farhat Nicole M , Porter Forbes D 
Published: November 2024

Background There is no consistent approach in assessing swallowing function both in clinical or research settings. However, its significance in ensuring proper nutrition, growth/ development, and overall quality of life is undeniable. We aim to introduce a novel methodology that enhances swallowing function as an outcome measure in clinical and rare disease research and demonstrate its efficacy in Niemann-Pick Type C1 (NPC1). Methods We reviewed commonly implemented qualitative and quantitative swallowing assessments in current clinical practice, including patient/proxy/clinician reports, clinical swallowing evaluation, videofluoroscopic swallow assessment (VFSS), and post-VFSS interpretive measures [American Speech Hearing Association National Outcomes Measures Scale (ASHA-NOMS) and National Institutes of Health penetration and aspiration scale (NIH-PAS)]. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, longitudinal statistical modeling to account for NPC1-specific covariates, and Kappa weighting correlations to determine inter-rater reliability. Results Our NPC1 cohort ( n = 120) underwent baseline and longitudinal evaluations, ( n = 269 VFSSs). We identified three statistically significant ( p < 0.05) NPC1-specific variables associated with post-VFSS interpretive measures, providing insights into disease progression and treatment effects. Inter-rater reliability correlations for ASHA-NOMS and NIH-PAS demonstrated strong agreement between two speech pathologists [ASHA-NOMS: 0.76 (95% CI 0.70-0.83); NIH-PAS: 0.88 (95% CI 0.82- 0.93)]. VFSS mean radiation dosage was calculated ( n = 129) and fell within the acceptable range declared by the American College of Radiology (263.79 ± 147.44 cGy*cm2). Conclusions This comprehensive methodology successfully documented functional swallowing status with dietary modifications and aspiration risk in a rare disease cohort (NPC1). Additionally, we effectively employed this methodology to support swallowing function as a research endpoint, specifically for phenotyping and developing therapeutic interventions for rare diseases.
Distinct expression profile reveals glia involvement in the trigeminal system attributing to post-traumatic headache
Authors: Nagarajan Gurueswar , Zhang Yumin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Post-traumatic headache (PTH) is a common comorbid symptom affecting at least one-third of patients with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). While neuroinflammation is known to contribute to the development of PTH, the cellular mechanisms in the trigeminal system crucial for understanding the pathogenesis of PTH remain unclear.

Methods
A non-invasive repetitive mTBI (4 times with a 24-h interval) was induced in male mice and effect of mTBI was tested on either bregma or pre-bregma position on the head. Periorbital allodynia and spontaneous pain behavior were assessed using von Frey test and grimace score, respectively. Quantitative PCR was used to assess extent of mTBI pathology. RNA sequencing was performed to obtain transcriptomic profile of the trigeminal ganglion (TG), trigeminal nucleus caudalis (Sp5C) and periaqueductal gray (PAG) at 7 days post-TBI. Subsequently, quantitative PCR, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry were used to examine mRNA and protein expression of glia specific markers and pain associated molecules.

Results
The repetitive impacts at the bregma, but not pre-bregma site led to periorbital hypersensitivity, which was correlated with enhanced inflammatory gene expression in multiple brain regions. RNA sequencing revealed mTBI induced distinct transcriptomic profiles in the peripheral TG and central Sp5C and PAG. Using gene set enrichment analysis, positive enrichment of non-neuronal cells in the TG and neuroinflammation in the Sp5C were identified to be essential in the pathogenesis of PTH. In situ assays also revealed that gliosis of satellite glial cells in the TG and astrocytes in the Sp5C were prominent days after injury. Furthermore, immunohistochemical study revealed a close interaction between activated microglia and reactive astrocytes correlating with increased calretinin interneurons in the Sp5C.

Conclusions
Transcriptomics analysis indicated that non-neuronal cells in peripheral TG and successive in situ assays revealed that glia in the central Sp5C are crucial in modulating headache-like symptoms. Thus, selective targeting of glia cells can be a therapeutic strategy for PTH attributed to repetitive mTBI.
Characterization of Serratia marcescens (OK482790)’ prodigiosin along with in vitro and in silico validation for its medicinal bioactivities
Authors: Hamada Marwa A. , Mohamed Eslam T. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Microbial prodigiosin pigment has been proposed as a promising biomolecule having an antibacterial, immunosuppressive, antimalarial, antineoplastic, and anticancer activities. The good outcome originates from getting natural pigment, which has many medical applications.

Results
In this investigation, prodigiosin (PG) was extracted, characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, thin-layer chromatography, mass spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and tested in various medical applications as an antibacterial, antioxidant, antibiofilm, anticancer, and wound healing agent at different concentrations. Antibacterial activity of PG pigment was shown against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. Enterococcus faecalis was the most severely impacted, with minimum inhibitory value of 3.9 µg/mL. The formed biofilm by Pseudomonas aeruginosa was suppressed by 58–2.50% at prodigiosin doses ranging from 1000 to 31.25 µg/mL, respectively. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) free radical was 74.18 ± 23.77 µg/mL. At 100 µg/mL concentration, OK482790 prodigiosin had no harmful effect on normal skin cells and exhibited mild wound healing properties. Additionally, molecular docking simulations confirmed the prodigiosin’s interactions with target proteins, including epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase (EGFR-TK, PDB ID: 1M17), peptide deformylase from E. faecalis (PDB ID: 2OS1), acidic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-1, PDB ID: 3K1X), PA14_16140 protein from P. aeruginosa (PDB ID: 8Q8O), and human peroxiredoxin 5 (PDB ID: 1HD2) for explaining the anticancer, antibacterial, wound healing, antibiofilm, and antioxidant activities, respectively. Prodigiosin had favorable binding affinities and putative modes of action across various therapeutic domains.

Conclusion
This study pioneers the use of prodigiosin as a natural alternative to synthetic medicine since it fights germs, heals wounds, is antioxidant, and reduces biofilm formation.

Clinical trial number
Not applicable.
Comparison of the prevalence and associated factors of chronic kidney disease diagnosed by serum creatinine or cystatin C among young people living with HIV in Uganda
Authors: Nasuuna Esther M. , Tomlinson Laurie A. , Kalyesubula Robert , Dziva Chikwari Chido , Castelnuovo Barbara , Manabe Yukari C. , Nakanjako Damalie , Weiss Helen A. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Young people living with HIV (YPLHIV) are at increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD) which is associated with high mortality and morbidity. Early diagnosis is important to halt progression. We aimed to estimate the prevalence and factors associated with CKD among YPLHIV in Kampala, Uganda, and to compare serum creatinine and cystatin C for early diagnosis of CKD in this population.

Methods
A cross-sectional study with YPLHIV aged 10 to 24 years was conducted in seven HIV clinics. Participants provided a urine and blood sample to measure urinary albumin, proteinuria, serum creatinine and cystatin C levels at baseline and after three months. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using CKDEPI 2021, Cockroft-Gault and bedside Schwartz equations using creatinine or cystatin C. The albumin creatinine ratio (ACR) and proteinuria were measured. CKD was defined as either eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73m2 or < 90 ml/min/1.73m2 or ACR above 30 mg/g on two separate occasions. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for factors associated with CKD.

Results
A total of 500 participants were enrolled. Most were female (56%; n = 280) and aged 10 to 17 years (66.9%; n = 335). CKD prevalence ranged from 0 to 23% depending on the criteria, equation and biomarker used. Cystatin C-based equations estimated higher prevalence of CKD compared to creatinine-based ones. Prevalence of ACR above 30 mg/g was 10.1% and of proteinuria 29%. Factors independently associated with CKD were age (aOR = 1.42; 95% CI:1.30–1.51) and male sex (aOR = 3.02; 95% CI:1.68–5.43).

Conclusion
CKD prevalence among YPLHIV varied substantially depending on definitions used and the current definition would likely lead to missed cases of CKD among YPLHIV. Estimating equations should be validated against measured GFR in YPLHIV and the optimal definition of CKD in this vulnerable population should be revised to optimise detection and opportunities for reducing disease progression.

Clinical trial number
Not applicable.
Smartphone pregnancy apps: systematic analysis of features, scientific guidance, commercialization, and user perception
Authors: Nissen Michael , Huang Shih-Yuan , Jäger Katharina M. , Flaucher Madeleine , Titzmann Adriana , Bleher Hannah , Pontones Constanza A. , Huebner Hanna , Danzberger Nina , Fasching Peter A. , Eskofier Bjoern M. , Leutheuser Heike 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Over 50% of pregnant women use pregnancy applications (apps). Some app s lack credibility, information accuracy, and evidence-based clinical advice, containing potentially harmful functionality. Previous studies have only conducted a limited analysis of pregnancy app functionalities, expert involvement/evidence-based content, used commercialization techniques, and user perception.

Methods
We used the keyword “pregnancy” to scrape (automatically extract) apps and app information from Apple App Store and Google Play. Unique functionalities were derived from app descriptions and user reviews. App descriptions were screened for evidence-based content and expert involvement, and apps were subsequently analyzed in detail. Apps were opened and searched for used commercialization techniques, such as advertisements or affiliate marketing. Automated text analysis (natural language processing) was used on app reviews to assess users’ perception of evidence-based content/expert involvement and commercialization techniques.

Results
In total, 495 apps were scraped. 226 remained after applying exclusion criteria. Out of these, 36 represented 97%/88% of the total market share (Apple App Store/Google Play), and were thus considered for review. Overall, 49 distinct functionalities were identified, out of which 6 were previously unreported. Functionalities for fetal kick movement counting were found. All apps are commercial. Only 15 apps mention the involvement of medical experts. 10.3% of two-stars user reviews include commercial topics, and 0.6% of one-/two-/three-/five stars user reviews include references to scientific content accuracy.

Conclusion
Problematic features and inadequate advice continue to be present in pregnancy apps. App developers should adopt an evidence-based development approach and avoid implementing as many features as possible, potentially at the expense of their quality or over-complication (“feature creep”). Financial incentives, such as grant programs, could support adequate content quality. Caregivers play a key role in pregnant individuals’ decision-making, should be aware of potential dangers, and could guide them to trustworthy apps.
Placental mesenchymal dysplasia: a rare case associated with second trimester fetal growth restriction
Authors: Chadwick Thomas , Davis Jennifer , Bitar Wafa , Pankaja Susmita 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Placental mesenchymal dysplasia (PMD) is a rare, benign, placental disorder characterised macroscopically by an enlarged multi-cystic placenta. It is a condition associated with a range of reported clinical outcomes and can be misdiagnosed as a molar or partial molar pregnancy given the similarities in clinical presentation. We present an unusual case of PMD complicated by fetal growth restriction and oligohydramnios in the second trimester.

Case presentation
A 33 year old female was referred to our fetal medicine unit with a multi-cystic placenta at dating scan suspected initially to be a partial molar pregnancy. She opted for conservative management and declined invasive testing. At 16 weeks severe fetal growth restriction was present with an estimated fetal weight < 3rd centile and associated with oligohydramnios. Whilst live births in cases of PMD have been reported in the literature, to our knowledge there are no reported successful outcomes in cases of early onset growth restriction at this gestation. The patient opted to proceed with termination of pregnancy given the suspected poor prognosis. Post mortem results confirmed a diagnosis of PMD and fetal growth restriction with normal genetic testing.

Conclusions
Placental mesenchymal dysplasia can be a difficult condition to manage, particularly when counselling about prognosis and deciding whether to continue the pregnancy. More evidence is needed about prognostic factors in PMD associated with a successful outcome. Early onset fetal growth restriction and/or oligohydramnios prior to 20 weeks are likely poor prognostic factors which should be considered in the antenatal counselling.