bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of para-aortic lymphadenectomy on clinically FIGO stage IIIC1 high- grade endometrial cancer: a retrospective cohort study from two tertiary centers Running title: Lymphadenectomy in high-grade endometrial cancer
Authors: Seo Jun-Hyeong , Lee Yoo-Young , Chang Koping , Kim Hyun-Soo , Chen Jung , Yang Tyan-Shin , Lai Yen-Ling , Chen Yu-Li 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The therapeutic effect of para-aortic lymphadenectomy in patients with clinically pelvic node-positive but para-aortic node-negative endometrial cancer remains controversial. In this study, we investigated whether combined pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy has a survival benefit compared with pelvic lymphadenectomy alone in these patients. We retrospectively reviewed patients with clinically FIGO stage IIIC1 high-grade endometrial cancer at two tertiary centers. Patients were stratified according to type of lymphadenectomy and subgroup analyses were performed. Kaplan–Meier analysis and a Cox proportional-hazards model were used to evaluate survival outcomes. A total of 56 patients were identified. Of these patients, 18 underwent pelvic lymphadenectomy alone, and 38 underwent combined pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy. After staging surgery, 34 (60.7%) patients had pathologically confirmed lymph node metastases. Within a median follow-up of 57.5 months, there were no significant differences in recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) between the two groups. In subgroup analyses, the node- and lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI)-positive patients characterized by grade 3 endometrioid histologic type (p = 0.010) or negative peritoneal washing cytology (p = 0.035) had an RFS benefit from combined pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy.
A novel program-controlled mode for stage Ⅰ of sacral neuromodulation-the remote programming: a multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Yinjun Gu , Jiashun Yu , Xin Song , Qixiang Song , Tingting Lv , Xueyan Bai , Wenhao Shen , Jiayi Li , Jing Leng , Chen Jiang , Jianwei Lv 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To evaluate the feasibility of using a novel network-based remote programming mode for the stage Ⅰ of sacral neuro modulation.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients from other provinces and cities who underwent sacral neuromodulation at three medical centers in Shanghai.
Results
It was found that the network remote programming modehad shorter single test time and lower transportation cost than the outpatient face-to-face programming mode based on Bluetooth connection, thus improving the cost-effective ratio of the time for sacral neuromodulation surgery and medical cost, and making patients get a better experience. Meanwhile, there is no significant difference in the short-term and medium-term efficacy between the two groups.
Conclusion
We think that the network remote programming mode has the advantages of convenience, speed, and low cost, which greatly complements the traditional outpatient face-to-face programming mode and can effectively solve the problem that patients who need reprogramming cannot receive face-to-face diagnosis in an outpatient department.
Quantitative Analysis of Choroidal Vascular Structures and Anatomical Changes in Pachychoroid Spectrum Diseases Using ultra-widefield SS-OCTA
Authors: Xiao Bei , Song Yanping , Yan Ming , Ye Ya , Huang Zhen 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study utilized ultra-widefield swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (UWF SS-OCTA) to quantitatively assess and compare choroidal blood flow structures and anatomical changes in eyes affected by central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC), pachychoroidal neovasculopathy (PNV), and uncomplicated pachychoroid (UCP). Additionally, we examined the distribution patterns of vortex veins across the three patient groups and conducted a preliminary investigation into the origin of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in PNV. A total of 44 patients with CSC, 38 with PNV, and 46 with UCP were included in the analysis. Three-dimensional data were obtained from scans with dimensions of 20 mm vertically by 24 mm horizontally and a scan depth of 6 mm, covering nine subfields. The results demonstrated higher choroidal vessel volume per unit area (mCVV/a), choroidal vascularity index (CVI), and choroidal thickness (CT) in CSC eyes, while the PNV group exhibited similarities with the UCP group. Notably, PNV eyes showed the lowest foveal choriocapillaris density, suggesting that PNV and CSC may represent a continuous pathological spectrum, whereas UCP could be considered either a precursor to CSC or a remission stage following CSC resolution. CNV in PNV may result from choriocapillaris occlusion and ischemia due to mechanical compression by hypertrophic choroidal vessels. These findings provide valuable insights into choroidal structure analysis, hemodynamics within the pachychoroid spectrum disease (PSD), and the pathogenesis of CNV in PNV, thereby contributing to the understanding of shared etiologies within the PSD spectrum.
Childhood Adversities, Race, and Late-life Cognition: Socio-behavioral pathways
Authors: Li Miao , Luo Ye 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD) poses a significant public health burden, with pronounced racial disparities in its prevalence. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have been implicated as predictors of later-life cognitive decline, potentially contributing to these disparities. However, the pathways linking ACEs to cognition in later life, and how these pathways vary by race, remain understudied.
Methods
This study utilized data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), focusing on a cohort of 9,894 U.S. adults aged 50 and older who participated in the 2008 and 2010 Enhanced Face-to-Face interviews. An innovative structural equation modeling (SEM) approach assessed the cumulative cognitive impact of 23 ACEs by estimating a single overall impact parameter and differentially weighting ACEs to identify the most and least harmful. This was integrated within a race-stratified mediation framework to evaluate the mediating roles of education, smoking, depressive symptoms, and physical activity for Whites and Blacks.
Results
In the overall model, cumulative ACEs were linked to lower education, increased smoking, higher depressive symptoms, and lower physical activity, all of which contributed to lower cognitive function. In race-stratified models, education emerged as the most significant mediator for Black participants, with depressive symptoms as a secondary mediator, together fully mediating the ACE-cognition relationship. For Whites, all mediators played a role in the ACE-cognition link, with education remaining the most important. A direct association between ACEs and cognition persisted for Whites even after accounting for mediators. The study also highlighted race-specific differences in ACE significance, with parental risky behaviors more impactful for Whites and physical disabilities for Blacks. Grade retention and learning problems were impactful ACEs for both groups.
Conclusion
This study highlights the complex, race-specific socio-behavioral pathways linking ACEs to cognitive decline in later life. Education plays a crucial mediating role, particularly for Black individuals, while White individuals are influenced by a broader set of factors. These findings suggest the need for targeted public health interventions that address the unique experiences of different racial groups. Future research should continue to explore these pathways to better understand and mitigate racial disparities in ADRD.
PTGDS is a potential marker for lung adenocarcinoma identified from multi-omics pan-cancer data
Authors: Wang Runzhi , Shao Fengling , Chen Jun , Zhou Qin 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Prostaglandin D2 Synthase (PTGDS) is an enzyme responsible for synthesizing prostaglandin D2. Despite its crucial role, PTGDS remains relatively understudied in tumor therapy, lacking comprehensive pan cancer analyses. Leveraging multi omics data integration, this study elucidates PTGDS's widespread dysregulation across various cancers and its correlation with patient survival. Moreover, PTGDS exhibits significant associations with stem cell scores, microenvironmental scores, microsatellite instability (MSI), tumor mutational burden (TMB), and methylation status in diverse tumor types. Additionally, immune correlations with PTGDS are evident across most cancers, with single cell transcriptome data indicating predominant associations with natural killer cells and macrophages. Notably, experimental validation reveals PTGDS's role in inhibiting lung adenocarcinoma cell A549 proliferation, linked to fatty acid degradation and cell cycle regulation. In summary, PTGDS demonstrates prognostic potential, influences pan cancer tumor immunity, and acts as a tumor suppressor in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).
Navigating the Storm: Pathways from Fear to Self-Management in Decompensated Cirrhosis-— A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhang Man , Zheng Xutong , Cui Yi , Chen Changchang , Yang Qian , Guo Hua , Yu Xingfeng 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Decompensated cirrhosis is a critical stage of liver disease where liver function becomes insufficient, leading to severe complications and a decreased quality of life. Fear of disease progression is a significant psychological burden that affects patients' self-management behaviors. Effective self-management is crucial for delaying disease progression, preventing complications, and improving overall outcomes in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. However, few studies have explored the direct relationship between fear of disease progression and self-management from a theoretical perspective and analyzed the pathways that influence this relationship in patients with decompensated cirrhosis.
Objective: Based on social cognitive theory and self-depletion theory, this study aims to construct a structural equation model of self-management in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. The objective is to explore the pathway relationships between fear of disease progression, disease self-perception, self-perceived burden, and self-management ability.
Design: A single-center cross section study from mainland China.
Setting: A general hospital ward in a large tertiary care hospital
Participants: A total of 412 patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis in the ward were surveyed.
Methods: Analytical approach using structural equation modelling，and the COREQ checklist was followed.
Results: The final model demonstrated a good fit. Fear of disease progression directly impacted self-management behaviors (β = -0.533, p < 0.001) and indirectly influenced self-management behaviors through disease perception (β = -0.169, p < 0.001) and self-perceived burden (β = -0.143, p < 0.001). Additionally, fear of disease progression was negatively correlated with self-management but positively correlated with disease self-perception and self-perceived burden.
Discussion & Conclusions: Our study found that fear of disease progression, disease self-perception, and self-perceived burden directly or indirectly influence self-management behaviors in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. These findings provide evidence for the development of targeted self-management interventions for this population, aiming to improve their health behaviors.
Reporting Method: This study was reported using the STROBE Checklist for cross-sectional studies.
Clinical trial number: not applicable.
Neural Mechanisms of Early Motor Learning in Laparoscopic Surgery: EEG Connectivity, BDNF, and Cognitive Load
Authors: Omurtag Ahmet , Sunderland Caroline , Mansfield Neil J. , Zakeri Zohreh 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This paper investigates the neural mechanisms underlying the early phase of motor learning in laparoscopic surgery training, using electroencephalography (EEG), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentrations and subjective cognitive load recorded from n = 31 novice participants during laparoscopy training. Functional connectivity was quantified using inter-site phase clustering (ISPC) and subjective cognitive load was assessed using NASA-TLX scores. The study identified frequency-dependent connectivity patterns correlated with motor learning and BDNF expression. Gains in performance were associated with beta connectivity, particularly within prefrontal cortex and between visual and frontal areas, during task execution (r = − 0.73), and were predicted by delta connectivity during the initial rest episode (r = 0.83). The study also found correlations between connectivity and BDNF, with distinct topographic patterns emphasizing left temporal and visuo-frontal links. By highlighting the shifts in functional connectivity during early motor learning associated with learning, and linking them to brain plasticity mediated by BDNF, the multimodal findings could inform the development of more effective training methods and tailored interventions involving practice and feedback.
Seasonal Modulation of Progesterone Receptor, PCNA, and Enzyme Activity in Buffalo Uterus: Implications for Endometrial Growth During Estrous
Authors: DEHURY SAGARIKA , Uppal Varinder , Pathak Devendra , Gupta Anuradha 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Reproductive ability in buffalo is influenced by longer day length during the summer. Factors like Progesterone receptor (PR), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), alkaline phosphatase, and succinic dehydrogenase activity were assessed during the follicular and luteal phase of the estrous cycle in the summer and winter seasons to visualize any changes in the uterine endometrial histoarchitecture that affect the reproductive ability in buffalo. Progesterone receptor (PR) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunoexpression are important indicators for endometrial cell growth and differentiation. The overall percentage of PR and PCNA immunopositive cell count and immunostaining intensity (optical density) in different compartments of the uterus was higher during the luteal phase than during the follicular phase. Alkaline phosphatase and succinic dehydrogenase activity are related to endometrial cell growth, uterine secretion, and functional status of the uterus. The activity of these enzymes was also more during the luteal phase than the follicular phase of the estrous cycle. However, the values and activities of all these parameters were lesser during the summer than in the winter. The decline in activities of all these factors would have a negative impact on buffalo reproduction and might cause summer infertility.
A Two-Stage Spatio-Geometrical Clustering of Football Team Shape for Post-Match Review
Authors: Zardiny Ali Zare , Bahramian Zahra 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The existence of a significant amount of spatio-temporal data in a football match creates a good potential for Post-Match Review and analysis of team behavior. These analyses can be done by focusing on the whole team or individual players. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the efficiency and general behavior of the team in the form of a single entity, from a spatio-geometrical point of view. This process starts by defining a convex hull as the team shape in each time frame. In the next step, a set of spatial, geometric, zone-based, and event-based parameters are introduced and extracted to describe the shape of the team at each frame. These descriptors are the basis of the two-stage spatio-geometrical clustering of the team during the match. What is obtained from clustering is the identification of similar patterns for the shape of the team in situations of in-possession and out-of-possession of the ball. Examining these clusters in the Post-Match Review process determines the overall performance of the team in different situations, the extent of the team's dominance over different areas of the field, as well as the team's technical strategies. No need to transfer the team shape to the image space, no need for image processing techniques for analysis and thus reducing the computational load, introducing a new geometric descriptor and performing clustering in two stages for a better and more meaningful interpretation of the team shape from the points are the distinguishing points of this article.
Altered Subchondral Bone Mineral Density in Painful Knee Osteoarthritis Without Cysts: A Comparative Analysis of Lateral and Medial Regions
Authors: Xu Pengjun , Xu Chensi , Zhang Yi , Zhao Suli , Feng Yabin , Sun Gang , Liu Kai 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objectives
​This study aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying pain generation and progression in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) by investigating alterations in proximal tibial subchondral bone mineral density (BMD) among individuals experiencing painful KOA without subchondral cysts, utilizing three-dimensional (3D) bone densitometry.
Methods
​A prospective, single-center data collection was conducted at the 960th Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the PLA. We employed a 3D bone densitometry technique to assess BMD in specific regions. Knee pain was evaluated using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC). Based on WOMAC scores, the knees of each patient were categorized into a moderate-severe pain group and a mild pain group. We explored the correlation between BMD and pain and analyzed differences among various pain subgroups.
Results
​Computed tomography (CT) imaging of 84 knees from 42 patients revealed a significant association between BMD and pain. The moderate-to-severe pain group exhibited higher BMD in the lateral compartment compared to the mild pain group. Statistically significant differences were observed in 0-2.5 mm lateral-posterior, 2.5-5.0 mm lateral-anterior, 5.0-7.5 mm medial-posterior, and 7.5-10.0 mm lateral-posterior.
Conclusions
​The altered subchondral bone density of the proximal tibia may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of KOA-related pain in patients.
Identification of Energy Metabolism and m6A-Related Gene Clusters in Kashin-Beck Disease Based on Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Ao Zhou , Ji Wang , An Jia , Qi Zhang , Zeren Duoji , Zhiyong Huang , Zhengqiang Yu 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Kashin-Beck disease (KBD) is a chronic and debilitating osteoarthropathy predominantly affecting populations in certain endemic regions. Despite extensive research, the underlying mechanisms of KBD remain poorly understood. Here we analyzed gene expression profiles from KBD patients and healthy controls, identifying 16 differentially expressed genes. Key pathways related to oxidative stress, apoptosis, and epigenetic regulation were implicated in KBD's development. Notably, GPX4 upregulation and differential m6A RNA methylation suggest potential therapeutic targets. Additionally, distinct metabolic regulation patterns were observed among KBD patients. These insights not only advance our understanding of KBD's molecular basis but also suggest promising directions for future research and clinical applications.
The viability of an Integrated Water Resource Management(IWRM) approach to alleviate potable water shortages, the case of Chimoio, Mozambique
Authors: Tsoca Shylet 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The study examines water management in Chimoio, Mozambique while focusing on water availability, distribution, quality, and stakeholder participation through data collected via questionnaires and interviews. The are significant challenges in urban water supply being experienced in Chimoio, for instance, water stress due to unreliable supply and infrastructure issues. While the majority of the population relies on municipal and groundwater sources, water shortages and high non-revenue water (NRW) levels persist. There is a public health risk concern and low economic growth due to water scarcity. Water scarcity seem to be mostly due to economic constraints, rather than ecological factors. Water quality concerns are prevalent, with a significant portion of the population relying on untreated groundwater, raising health risks. The study also highlights the limited implementation of Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) and inadequate wastewater treatment and recycling practices in the city. Despite government promotion of IWRM, local efforts remain inadequate, especially in stakeholder and public participation in water management. The research emphasizes the need for innovative and sustainable water management practices, including the promotion of rainwater harvesting and active leakage control, to address water shortages and improve overall water governance in Chimoio.
Pivoting to the Positive: A Novel Strategy for Evaluating Programs Serving Children of Incarcerated Parents
Authors: Hunsucker Chelsea 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Understanding children of incarcerated parents frequently reflects a myopic focus on risk, disadvantage, and likelihood of intergenerational justice system involvement. Thankfully, we now see pivots towards using positive research frameworks to research youth and evaluate programming. One such initiative was undertaken by Prison Fellowship® to develop and assess their new program, the First Chance Network™. The program aims to promote family resilience and youth flourishing for families impacted by incarceration. A participatory, sequential mixed-methods evaluation design strategy was developed, taking inspiration from the HOPE framework, resilience theory, and PCE research. Initial findings support the importance of PCEs, mentors, and supportive peers in promoting child well-being, even amongst adversity. Positive research strategies serve not only as a new way to evaluate programs and promote youth flourishing but also to redirect the defeatist narrative we often speak over children and families impacted by incarceration.