bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancing health assessments with large language models: A methodological approach
Authors: Wang Xi , Zhou Yujia , Zhou Guangyu 
Published: October 2024

AbstractHealth assessments have long been a significant research topic within the field of health psychology. By analyzing the results of subject scales, these assessments effectively evaluate physical and mental health status. Traditional methods, based on statistical analysis, are limited in accuracy due to their reliance on linear scoring methods. Meanwhile, machine learning approaches, despite their potential, have not been widely adopted due to their poor interpretability and dependence on large amounts of training data. Recently, large language models (LLMs) have gained widespread attention for their powerful natural language understanding capabilities, offering a viable solution to these issues. This study investigates the application of LLMs in enhancing physical and mental health assessments, introducing ScaleLLM. ScaleLLM employs language and knowledge alignment to turn LLMs into expert evaluators for health psychology scales. Experimental results indicate that ScaleLLM can improve the accuracy and interpretability of health assessments.
Robust Predictive Performance of the SALT‐M Score for Clinical Outcomes in Asian Patients With Acute‐on‐Chronic Liver Failure
Authors: Kim Kunhee , Yim Seung Hyuk , Lee Jae Geun , Joo Dong Jin , Kim Myoung Soo , Park Jun Yong , Ahn Sang Hoon , Kim Deok‐Gie , Lee Hye Won 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundAcute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a syndrome of patients with chronic liver disease presenting with multiple organ failures. Recently, Sundaram‐ACLF‐LT Mortality (SALT‐M) score has been developed to predict 1‐year post‐liver transplantation mortality. We validated the SALT‐M score in a large‐volume, Asian single‐centre cohort.AimsWe validated the SALT‐M score in a large‐volume, Asian single‐centre cohort.MethodsWe analysed 224 patients of ACLF grade 2–3. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and concordance index (c‐index) were used to assess and compare the predictability of posttransplant mortality of SALT‐M and other scores. Moreover, we compared the survivals of patients with high and low SALT‐M, in conjunction with MELD score and ACLF grade.ResultsThe AUROC for prediction of 1‐year post‐LT survival was higher in SALT‐M (0.691) than in MELD, MELD‐Na, MELD 3.0 and delta‐MELD. Similarly, the c‐index of the SALT‐M (0.650) was higher than aforementioned MELD systems. When categorised by the cut‐off of SALT‐M ≥ 20 and MELD ≥ 30, patients with high SALT‐M exhibited lower post‐LT survival than those with low SALT‐M scores regardless of high or low MELD (40.0% for high SALT‐M/high MELD vs. 42.9% for high SALT‐M/low MELD vs. 73.8% for low SALT‐M/high MELD vs. 63.7% for low SALT‐M/low MELD, p < 0.001). In patients with ACLF grade 3, SALT‐M effectively stratified the posttransplant mortality (39.4% for high SALT‐M vs. 63.1% for low SALT‐M, p = 0.018).ConclusionsSALT‐M outperformed previous MELD systems for predicting posttransplant mortality in Asian LT cohort with severe ACLF. Transplantability for patients with severe ACLF could be determined based on SALT‐M.
Impact of HADS Anxiety and Depression Scores on the Efficacy of Dietary Interventions for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: O'Connor Anthony , Gill Sarah , Neary Elaine , White Sarah , Ford Alexander C. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundAnxiety and depression are associated strongly with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Dietary therapies are used increasingly in the management of IBS, but the impact of common mental disorders on response to these has not been well studied.AimsTo examine whether symptoms compatible with common mental disorders influence response to dietary interventions.MethodsProspective cohort study of adults, with either diarrhoea‐predominant or mixed bowel habits, IBS Severity Scoring System [IBS‐SSS] score ≥ 75 points. Participants completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression score (HADS) and attended initially for British Dietary Association advice for IBS. IBS‐SSS was re‐checked 3 months later to assess response. If primary endpoint (≥ 50 point decrease in IBS‐SSS) was not achieved, patients were offered low fermentable oligo‐, di‐ and monosaccharides and polyol diet and repeated IBS‐SSS after another 3 months. Secondary endpoints included of change in IBS‐SSS and effect of symptom severity on response.ResultsIn total, 448 patients took part, average age of 42 years and 79.0% were female. 69.9% of participants had HADS‐A scores ≥ 8 and 39.3% with HADS‐D scores ≥ 8. Average IBS‐SSS score at baseline was 290 (SD 86). No significant difference was noted in achievement of the primary endpoint according to HADS‐A scores (53.4% vs. 62.2% by ITT in those with HADS‐A ≥ 8 vs. HADS‐A < 8, p = 0.09). Patients with HADS‐D ≥ 8 were significantly less likely to achieve the primary endpoint compared with those with HADS‐D < 8 (43.8% vs. 64.0% by ITT, p < 0.01).ConclusionUnderstanding psychological profile of patients can help predicting their response to IBS dietary interventions.
Germany's evolving role in global affairs: Positioning as a middle power in the Indo‐Pacific region
Authors: Wunderlich Jens‐Uwe , Luo Chih‐Mei 
Published: October 2024

AbstractIn 2020 Germany released its Indo‐Pacific guidelines in response to global shifts and escalating Sino‐US rivalries in the region. This article scrutinises Germany's ambitions and stance in the Indo‐Pacific, utilising the middle power concept as an analytical tool. It argues that Germany's Indo‐Pacific strategy is broadly in line with its wider foreign policy approach rather than marking a radical shift. Divided into three sections, the article explores middle power theories, Germany's foreign policy approach and Germany's Indo‐Pacific tilt. Assessing Germany's progress in the Indo‐Pacific, the paper employs a middle power framework based on capabilities, identity and engagement. We argue that Germany seems intent on positioning itself as a civilian middle power, evident in its deeply engrained norms determining identity and guiding engagement. The article uses a qualitative approach, drawing from primary material such as official statements of German policymakers and policy documents, supplemented by secondary sources covering the literature on middle power dynamics, the Indo‐Pacific region and Germany's foreign policy. Employing thematic documentary analysis, the paper identifies recurring patterns and trends in Germany's evolving role in the Indo‐Pacific.
A case of laparoscopic spleen‐preserving distal pancreatectomy for small solid pseudopapillary neoplasm in an adult male with anomalous splenic vein confluence
Authors: Uemura Sunao , Daike Rikiya , Yorita Kenji , Yamai Hiromichi , Yoshida Mitsuteru , Hokimoto Norihiro , Matsuoka Hisashi , Iwabu Jun , Izaki Fuyumi , Okazaki Michiyo , Tanida Nobuyuki 
Published: October 2024

AbstractAlthough anomalies of the celiac and/or superior mesenteric arteries are occasionally encountered during abdominal surgery, anomalous venous confluence is seldom reported during pancreatic surgery. Herein, we present a rare case of laparoscopic spleen‐preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP) for the treatment of a solid pseudopapillary neoplasm in an asymptomatic 37‐year‐old male with an anomalous splenic vein (SpV) confluence. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) revealed an anomaly of the SpV, which coursed transversely through the superior border of the pancreas, over the celiac artery and into the portal vein, along the superior line of the common hepatic artery. We successfully performed an LSPDP without peripancreatic vessel injury by exposing the SpV and splenic artery through an approach from the superior position of the pancreas. Preoperative imaging, especially CTA, is crucial to ensuring a safe, successful laparoscopic pancreatectomy.
When is the use of intravenous immunoglobulin appropriate in immune thrombocytopenia?
Authors: Dubois Sydney , Layese Richard , Limal Nicolas , Languille Laetitia , Kini‐Matondo Willy , Mahevas Matthieu , Michel Marc , Audureau Etienne , Godeau Bertrand 
Published: October 2024

SummaryIntravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) is the gold standard treatment for severe cases of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). However, its cost, limited duration of efficacy and market supply tension have led French guidelines to reserve IVIg for ITP patients with formal contra‐indications to corticosteroids, with French bleeding score (‘Khellaf score’) > 8, and corticosteroid‐resistant patients either with Khellaf score ≤ 8 or in preparation for an invasive procedure or during pregnancy. We studied the prescribing practices of IVIg for ITP in real‐life conditions and assessed their compliance with French guidelines. A monocentric retrospective study was conducted between 2016 and 2020 among 114 patients hospitalized in our unit, for a total of 208 IVIg treatments. In 37% of cases, the Khellaf score was >8, validating IVIg prescription according to French guidelines. In the remaining cases, reasons noted for use of IVIg included corticosteroid resistance (33.7%), preparation for an invasive procedure (8.5%), context of pregnancy (6.6%) and contra‐indication to corticosteroids (3.3%). After analysis, IVIg prescription was considered valid according to current French guidelines in 84.4% of cases. Non‐compliant IVIg prescription was more frequent in younger patients (p = 0.027). Concomitant anti‐coagulation was also noted as an argument for IVIg prescription outside of the current French guidelines.
Phase II trial of imatinib mesylate in patients with PDGFRA/B‐negative hypereosinophilic syndrome
Authors: Kim Dong Hyun , Kim Seokhyeon , Park Seonyang , Byun Ja Min , Hong Junshik , Shin Dong‐Yeop , Kim Inho , Bang Soo Mee , Lee Jeong‐Ok , Lee Ji Yun , Kim Sang‐A , Kim Ki Hwan , Chung Yeun‐Jun , Jung Seung‐Hyun , Koh Youngil , Yoon Sung‐Soo 
Published: October 2024

SummaryThe role of imatinib in PDGFRA/B‐negative hypereosinophilic syndromes (HES) is controversial because of the heterogeneity of HES and the scarcity of prospective studies. We conducted a phase II clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of imatinib in PDGFRA/B‐negative HES. Thirty‐two patients were treated with imatinib (100–400 mg daily), and the molecular basis of their response was identified using whole‐exome sequencing (WES) and whole‐transcriptome sequencing (WTS). The haematological response rate was 46.9%, with a complete haematological response (CHR) rate of 18.8%. The median time to response was 1.5 months. Among the six patients who achieved CHR, five maintained it until the 24th cycle of imatinib and one lost response after 20 months. The median progression‐free survival was 4.3 months. WES and WTS were conducted for 11 patients. The number of non‐silent mutations did not differ between responders and non‐responders. Nine differentially expressed genes, including SNORD15A, were downregulated in responders. STAT5B::RARA, PAK2::PIGX, and FIP1L1::CHIC2 fusions were identified in patients with sustained responses, and RNF130::BRAF and WNK1::KDM5A fusions were identified in non‐responders. Imatinib, along with an appropriate biomarker, could be a promising option for PDGFRA/B‐negative HES.
Early transtympanic administration of rhBDNF exerts a multifaceted neuroprotective effect against cisplatin‐induced hearing loss
Authors: Pisani Anna , Rolesi Rolando , Mohamed‐Hizam Veronica , Montuoro Raffaele , Paludetti Gaetano , Giorgio Cristina , Cocchiaro Pasquale , Brandolini Laura , Detta Nicola , Sirico Anna , Amendola Pier Giorgio , Novelli Rubina , Aramini Andrea , Allegretti Marcello , Paciello Fabiola , Grassi Claudio , Fetoni Anna Rita 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackground and PurposeCisplatin‐induced sensorineural hearing loss is a significant clinical challenge. Although the potential effects of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) have previously been investigated in some ototoxicity models, its efficacy in cisplatin‐induced hearing loss remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of recombinant human BDNF (rhBDNF) in protecting cells against cisplatin‐induced ototoxicity.Experimental ApproachUsing an in vivo model of cisplatin‐induced hearing loss, we investigated the beneficial effects of transtympanic administration of rhBDNF in a thermogel solution on hearing function and cochlear injury, using electrophysiological, morphological, immunofluorescence and molecular analyses.Key ResultsOur data showed that local rhBDNF treatment counteracted hearing loss in rats receiving cisplatin by preserving synaptic connections in the cochlear epithelium and protecting hair cells (HCs) and spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) against cisplatin‐induced cell death. Specifically, rhBDNF maintains the balance of its receptor levels (pTrkB and p75), boosting TrkB‐CREB pro‐survival signalling and reducing caspase 3‐dependent apoptosis in the cochlea. Additionally, it activates antioxidant mechanisms while inhibiting inflammation and promoting vascular repair.Conclusion and ImplicationsCollectively, we demonstrated that early transtympanic treatment with rhBDNF plays a multifaceted protective role against cisplatin‐induced ototoxicity, thus holding promise as a novel potential approach to preserve hearing in adult and paediatric patients undergoing cisplatin‐based chemotherapy.
Poverty Dynamics and Caries Status in Young Adolescents
Authors: Carbajal Rodriguez Gisselle , van Meijeren‐van Lunteren Agatha W. , Wolvius Eppo B. , Kragt Lea 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTObjectivesTo investigate whether timing, accumulation and trajectories of poverty are associated with dental caries in young adolescents.MethodsThe study was conducted within the Generation R Study, which is an ongoing population‐based prospective cohort study conducted in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. This study included 2653 children. Information about household income and number of children and adults living in a household at six time points from pregnancy to 13 years old was retrieved from parental questionnaires to construct the poverty variable. Dental caries was assessed with the decayed, missing and filled teeth index through intraoral photographs at the age of 13 years. Sociodemographic and oral health‐related characteristics were included as possible confounders. The association between poverty and dental caries was analysed on the basis of the three lifecourse theories, that is, critical period, cumulative risk and social mobility model. For the latter, we used latent class growth analysis (LCGA) to identify poverty trajectories over time. Next, the associations were studied with Hurdle Negative Binomial Models.ResultsPoverty at birth and intermittent poverty up to the age of 13 were significantly associated with dental caries at 13 years of age (OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.01–1.99; OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.01–1.83 respectively) and with an increased mean number of decayed teeth by 34% (95% CI 1.02–1.76; 95% CI 1.05–1.71, respectively). LCGA showed four trajectories for the probabilities of poverty. All trajectories were significantly associated with dental caries at 13 years of age, with the ‘downward mobility’ trajectory showing the strongest association with dental caries (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.05–2.29) and an increasing mean number of decayed teeth by 58% (95% CI 1.18–2.12) than the ‘stable absent’ trajectory.ConclusionPoverty at birth, intermittent poverty and downward poverty trajectory were associated with higher odds and higher mean number of decayed teeth at 13 years of age. The three lifecourse models influenced dental caries status during adolescence, hence strategies and policies targeted to improve socioeconomic conditions on deprived children should be implemented.
SOXC Enhances NGN2‐Mediated Reprogramming of Glioblastoma Cells Into Neuron‐Like Cells by Modulating RhoA and RAC1/CDC42 Pathway Activity
Authors: Yang Jianjing , Zhu Xiaohong , Wang Fan , Chen Zhen , Zhang Ying , Chen Jiawei , Ni Haoqi , Zhang Chun‐Li , Zhuge Qichuan 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundGlioblastoma represents the most frequently diagnosed malignant neoplasm within the central nervous system. Human glioblastoma cells can be phenotypically reprogrammed into neuron‐like cells through the forced expression of NEUROG2 and SOXC factors. NEUROG2 serves as a pioneer factor, establishing an initial framework for this transformation. However, the specific role of SOXC factors has not been fully elucidated.MethodsIn this study, we used ChIP‐seq to determine the potential target gene of NGN2. RNA‐seq has been used to evaluate the transcriptional change during NGN2‐SOX11‐mediated neuron reprogramming. Immunofluorescence was used to determine the neuron reprogramming efficacy and cell proliferation ability. ChIP‐qPCR, Co‐IP, and Western Blot were performed to investigate the mechanism.ResultsOur findings reveal that SOXC factors, in contrast to their previously identified function as transcriptional activators, act as transcriptional repressors. They achieve this by recruiting TRIM28 to suppress the expression of ECT2, a RhoGEF. This suppression results in the differential regulation of RhoA, RAC1, and CDC42 activities throughout the reprogramming process. We further establish that small molecules targeting RhoA and its effectors can substitute for SOXC factors in facilitating the neuronal reprogramming of glioblastoma cells.ConclusionThese results underscore the pivotal role of SOXC factors' transcriptional repression and illuminate one of their specific downstream targets.
Long‐term natural history in type II and III spinal muscular atrophy: a 4‐year international study on the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded
Authors: Coratti Giorgia , Bovis Francesca , Pera Maria Carmela , Civitello Matthew , Rohwer Annemarie , Salmin Francesca , Glanzman Allan M. , Montes Jacqueline , Pasternak Amy , De Sanctis Roberto , Dunaway Young Sally , Duong Tina , Mizzoni Irene , Milev Evelin , Sframeli Maria , Morando Simone , Albamonte Emilio , D'Amico Adele , Catteruccia Michela , Brolatti Noemi , Pane Marika , Scoto Mariacristina , Messina Sonia , Escudero Jesica Exposito , De Waele Liesbeth , Hirano Michio , Zolkipli‐Cunningham Zarazuela , Darras Basil T. , Bertini Enrico , Nascimiento Osorio Andres , Bruno Claudio , Goemans Natalie , Sansone Valeria A. , Day John , Baranello Giovanni , Muntoni Francesco , Finkel Richard , Mercuri Eugenio ,   the ISMAC/international SMA consortium
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackground and purposeSpinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic disorder caused by SMN1 gene mutations. Although studies on available disease‐modifying treatments have reported their efficacy and safety, long‐term natural history data are lacking for comparison. The aim of this prospective study was to report 4‐year changes on the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded (HFMSE) in type II and III SMA in relation to several variables such as age, functional status and SMN2 copy number.MethodsThe study involves retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from international datasets (Belgium, Italy, Spain, USA, UK). HFMSE longitudinal changes were analyzed using linear mixed effect models, examining annualized HFMSE change and its association with variables such as age at baseline, sex, motor function, SMN2 copy number.ResultsIn SMA type II (n = 226), the 4‐year mean change was −2.20 points. The largest mean changes were observed in sitters aged 5–14 years and the lowest in those who lost the ability to sit unsupported. In SMA type III (n = 162), the 4‐year mean change was −2.75 points. The largest mean changes were in those aged 7–15 years, whilst the lowest were in those below 7 and in the SMA type IIIa subgroup over 15. Age and score at baseline were predictive of 4‐year changes.ConclusionsOur findings provide natural history reference data for comparison with long‐term follow‐up of clinical trials or real‐world data, highlighting the need to define patterns of changes in smaller SMA subgroups instead of reporting mean changes across an entire SMA cohort.
Transforming Lung Disease Diagnosis With Transfer Learning Using Chest X‐Ray Images on Cloud Computing
Authors: Choudhry Imran Arshad , Iqbal Saeed , Alhussein Musaed , Qureshi Adnan N. , Aurangzeb Khursheed , Naqvi Rizwan Ali 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTIn the context of Cloud and Fog computing settings, recent developments in deep learning techniques show great potential for changing several fields, including healthcare. In this study, we make a contribution to this changing field by proposing an enhanced deep learning‐based strategy for classifying chest X‐ray images, using pre‐trained models such as RetinaNet, EfficientNet and Faster‐R‐CNN, which we use through transfer learning. Our strategy outperforms single models and traditional techniques by leveraging critical data gleaned from multiple models, demonstrating the ability of deep learning to improve diagnostic precision. Our approach presents a novel dual‐check system in the context of worries about security, privacy and trust in Cloud and Fog‐based Smart Systems. In this case, a decision support system uses chest X‐ray images to make an initial diagnosis that is then confirmed by a medical practitioner. This cooperative strategy not only reduces diagnostic errors that come from machine and human sources but also emphasises how crucial it is to incorporate AI‐driven solutions into safe and reliable healthcare ecosystems. Our approach raises the bar for the quality of patient care and healthcare outcomes by overcoming the drawbacks of traditional diagnostic methods that depend on the subjective opinions of physicians. Our work brings out how deep learning might transform clinical diagnostics by distinguishing inflammatory regions in chest X‐ray images. Research is needed to fully grasp the transformative potential of deep learning in medical image processing, especially as the healthcare industry continues to embrace AI‐driven solutions. Further research endeavours have to dig into tactics like broadening the scope of datasets, executing data augmentation methodologies and incorporating bespoken features to augment the elasticity and effectiveness of AI‐driven diagnostic systems.