bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Skittering locomotion in cricket frogs: a form of porpoising
Authors: Weiss Talia , Gillis Gary B. , Van Mullekom Jennifer , Socha John J. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT
Multiple species of frogs in the Ranidae family have been observed to ‘skitter’ across the water surface, but little is understood about the biomechanical or physical mechanisms that underlie this behavior. All documented descriptions are anecdotal, asserting simply that the frogs can cross the water surface without sinking. To study this form of interfacial locomotion, we recorded high-speed video of the northern cricket frog Acris crepitans and quantified its kinematics. We also compared its semi-aquatic behavior with the frogs' terrestrial locomotion. Contrary to expectations based on anecdotal knowledge, we found that cricket frogs do not maintain an above-surface position throughout the locomotor cycle. Instead, the frogs are completely submerged during both the launching and landing phase of a jump cycle, similar to porpoising in other animals. It is possible that leg-retraction time constrains these frogs from performing true surface-only locomotion.
Prediction of Pathologic Complete Response in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Preoperative Serum Small Ribonucleic Acid Obtained After Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Hirohata Ryosuke , Yamamoto Yuki , Mimae Takahiro , Hamai Yoichi , Ibuki Yuta , Takahashi Ryou-u , Okada Morihito , Tahara Hidetoshi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
The authors hypothesized that small ribonucleic acid (sRNA) obtained from blood samples after neoadjuvant therapy from patients treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (NACRT) could serve as a novel biomarker for predicting pathologic complete response (pCR).

Methods
This study included 99 patients treated with esophagectomy after NACRT between March 2010 and October 2021 whose blood samples were collected between the end of NACRT and surgery. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to analyze sRNAs from the blood samples. A predictive model for pCR comprising micro-RNA isoforms (isomiR), transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived sRNAs (tsRNAs), and clinical factors was constructed using cross-validation.

Results
Of the 99 patients, pCR was diagnosed for 30 and non-pCR for 69 of the patients. Among sRNAs, the isomiRs of let-7b and miR-93 and the tsRNA group derived from tRNA-Gly-CCC/GCC were identified as predictive factors. The clinical factors included a decrease in the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) at the primary site, clinical complete response post-NACRT, preoperative biopsy, and post-NACRT carcinoembryonic antigen levels. The combined predictive model for pCR (C-PM) was established using the three sRNAs and four clinical factors. The area under the curve for the C-PM was 0.84, which was a significant factor in the multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 89.41; 95 % confidence interval 8.1–987.5; p < 0.001).

Conclusions
Pathologic complete response after NACRT can be predicted by a predictive model constructed from preoperative clinical factors obtained via minimally invasive procedures and sRNA identified by NGS. Preoperative pCR prediction may influence treatment decision-making after NACRT.
Hydronephrosis Associated with Cervical Cancer Case Report on Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management
Authors: Stolarek Kacper , Kowalczyk Emilia , Szarek Mateusz , Andrzejak Alicja , Olszewski Hubert 
Published: October 2024

Introduction and Purpose
Cervical cancer is one of the most common malignancies in women, accounting for the fourth most common cancer worldwide and the sixth in Poland. Despite advances in diagnosis and prevention, the condition is still associated with a high mortality rate, especially in advanced stages. One of the significant complications of advanced cervical cancer is hydronephrosis, occurring in about 23% of patients. Hydronephrosis develops as a result of blocked urine outflow, which leads to stretching of the renal calyces and can result in renal failure if not properly treated. Management strategies for hydronephrosis include ureteral stenting and percutaneous nephrostomy, both of which are effective in draining the kidneys and improving patient outcomes.

Aim of the study
This article discusses the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of hydronephrosis in patients with cervical cancer, and presents a detailed case report of a patient with advanced cervical cancer complicated by hydronephrosis and renal perforation.

Results and Future directions
The patient was admitted to the urology department for bleeding into the retroperitoneal space after renal fistula replacement. During hospitalization, despite numerous complications, the patient's condition stabilized after blood and plasma transfusions, intensive antibiotic therapy and renal fistula re-implantation. The final results of the treatment were successful, and the patient was discharged with appropriate recommendations. The study highlights the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment of hydronephrosis to improve the prognosis of patients with cervical cancer. It underscores the need for multidisciplinary collaboration involving urologists, oncologists and other specialists to provide comprehensive care tailored to the patient's evolving needs.
Ultracompact optical microscopes made of liquid crystal Pancharatnam–Berry optical elements
Authors: Chen Hao , Yun Hai , Jiang Miao , Wei Qi-Huo 
Published: October 2024

Ultracompact optical systems are increasingly sought after for applications such as consumer electronics and medical imaging. Here, we present a design and manufacturing approach for ultracompact bright- and dark-field optical microscopes entirely made of flat liquid crystal optical elements. Both systems utilize liquid crystal PB lenses as objective and tube lenses, while the dark-field optical microscope incorporates an additional Q-plate with a +1 topological defect to filter zero-order light. We demonstrate two optical microscopic systems with a numerical aperture of 0.25 and overall thickness of just 5 mm. The system can achieve high imaging performance with a resolution better than 7 µm. We further demonstrate an exemplary application in biological imaging to effectively enhance edge contrast in imaging onion epidermal cells. This work presents an example in exploiting the flatness and high quality of liquid crystal optical elements to achieve compactness and high-quality imaging promising for various applications.
The RECONCILE study protocol: Exploiting image-based risk stratification in early prostate cancer to discriminate progressors from non-progressors (RECONCILE)
Authors: Marsden Teresa , Attard Gerhardt , Punwani Shonit , Giganti Francesco , Freeman Alex , Haider Aiman , Wingate Anna , Williams Norman , Syer Tom , Pashayan Nora , Moore Caroline M. , Emberton Mark , Orczyk Clement 
Published: October 2024

Introduction
RECONCILE (ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT04340245) will identify molecular and radiomic markers associated with clinical progression and radiological progression events in a cohort of localised, newly diagnosed Gleason 3 + 4 tumours. Molecular markers will be correlated against standard of care MRI-targeted histology and oncological outcomes.

Methods
RECONCILE is an ethics approved (20/LO/0366) single centre, prospective, longitudinal, observational cohort study of recently diagnosed (within 12 months), organ-confined Gleason 3 + 4 cancers (MCCL ≤10mm) currently under active surveillance. 60 treatment-naïve participants with a concordant MRI lesion (Likert score 4 or 5) and PSA ≤ 15 ng/ml will be recruited.
Blood, urine and targeted prostate tissue cores will be subject to next generation sequencing at baseline and one year in all participants. Semen will be collected from a specified sub-population. Baseline and interval MR images will be extracted from standard of care prostate MRI ahead of radiomic analysis. Data extracted from radiological and biological samples will be used to derive the association of molecular change and radiological progression, the primary outcome of the study.
To compensate for spatial intratumoral heterogeneity and inherent sampling bias, a molecular index will be derived for each participant using the molecular profile of tumour tissue at both baseline (MolBL) and one year (MolFU). We will extract a ΔMolBL:MolFU score for each participant. Molecular progression will be defined as a MolBL:MolFU score >95% CI of the combined ΔMolBL scores. Radiological progression is defined as a PRECISE score of 4 or 5. The study is powered to detect an association with a statistical power of 80%.

Results
Recruitment began in July 2020 (n = 62). To date, 37 participants have donated tissue for analysis.

Conclusion
We have designed and implemented a prospective, longitudinal study to evaluate the underlying molecular landscape of intermediate risk, MR-visible prostate tumours. Recruitment is ongoing.
Effect of crosslinking/antioxidant agents as final irrigant on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated root after radiotherapy
Authors: Tavangar Maryam S. , Shafiei Fereshteh , Eslami Pirharati Sepehr , Bakhshandeh Mohsen , Ghahramani Yasamin 
Published: October 2024

Aim
To investigate the effects of Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and curcumin, as a final irrigant on the fracture resistance of irradiated root that obturated with an epoxy resin sealer.

Methodology
Eighty mandibular premolars were randomly divided into non-irradiated (NIR) and irradiated (IR) groups. The teeth were irradiated at 2 Gy per fraction, 5 times a week for a total dose of 60 Gy over 6 weeks. All specimens were decoronated, remaining 13±1 mm root length. Two groups were subdivided into four groups (n = 10): 1) non-instrumented; the intact root served as control. The other roots were instrumented with a pro-taper NiTi rotary system. The final irrigation used was 17% EDTA, followed by three irrigation solution groups; 2) 2.5% NaOCl, 3) 0.02% EGCG, and 4) 0.1% curcumin. Root canals were filled with gutta-percha and AH plus. All specimens were embedded in self-curing acrylic resin and loaded vertically at 1 mm/min until fracture occurred. Also, sealer penetration was assessed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The data were evaluated statistically using two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α = 0.05).

Results
In irradiated roots, fracture resistance of EGCG and curcumin groups did not differ from non-instrumented roots, but they were higher than the NaOCl group (P = 0.006). However, NaOCl, EGCG, and curcumin in irradiated roots had comparable strength that was higher than in the non-instrumented group (p<0.001). Difference between irradiated and non-irradiated roots was observed only for NaOCl and non-instrumented groups (P≤0.004). In irradiated roots, a higher sealer penetration was observed in EGCG and curcumin groups compared to NaOCl.

Conclusion
EGCG and curcumin could be promising final irrigants to reverse the adverse effect of radiotherapy on the strength of irradiated roots obturated with AH Plus sealer.
SARS-CoV-2 variant survey: Comparison of RT-PCR screening with TGS and variant distribution across two divisions of Bangladesh
Authors: Kawser Zannat , Rahman Saikt , Westeel Emilie , Habib Mohammad Tanbir , Hossain Mohabbat , Bulbul Md. Rakibul Hassan , Mukta Sharmin Aktar , Islam Md. Zahirul , Hossain Md. Zakir , Afrad Mokibul Hassan , Khan Manjur Hossain , Shirin Tahmina , Ahmed Md. Shakeel , Berland Jean-Luc , Komurian-Pradel Florence , Qadri Firdausi 
Published: October 2024

Background
The widespread increase in multiple variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) since 2020 is causing significant health concerns worldwide. While whole-genome sequencing (WGS) has played a leading role in surveillance programs, many local laboratories lack the expertise and resources. Thus, we aimed to investigate the circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants and evaluate the performance of multiplexed real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) for screening and monitoring the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants in Bangladesh.

Methods
A total of 600 confirmed SARS-CoV-2-positive cases were enrolled either prospectively or retrospectively from two divisions of Bangladesh. The samples were screened by variant RT-PCR targeting five mutations of the spike gene (N501Y, P681R, L452R, E484K, E484Q). A subsample of the study population was also selected for third-generation sequencing (TGS) and the results were compared to the variant RT-PCR screening. An in-depth comparison was made between the two methods in terms of congruence and cost-benefit.

Result
Seven variants were detected among samples, with similar distributions of the variants across both divisions. Variant RT-PCR for the targeted mutations lead to a 98.5% call rate; only nine samples failed to be determined. No association was found regarding the demographic features, clinical criteria, or routine RT-PCR Ct values across the variants. The clade diversity of the sequenced subpopulation (n = 99) exhibited similar distributions across the two study sites and other epidemiologic variables. Variant RT-PCR successfully distinguished variants of concern (VOCs) and variants of interest (VOIs); however, 8% discrepancy was observed for the closest lineages. Moreover, the variant RT-PCR represented an ideal balance of cost, time, and accuracy that outweigh their limitations.

Conclusion
Based on the strong agreement of variant RT-PCR with TGS, such rapid, easily accessible approaches of rapid strain typing are essential in the context of pandemic responses to guide both treatment decisions and public health measures.
Serum Autotaxin Levels Predict Liver-Related Events in Patients With Primary Biliary Cholangitis: A Long-Term Multicenter Observational Study
Authors: Iwadare Takanobu , Kimura Takefumi , Yamashita Yuki , Okumura Taiki , Wakabayashi Shun-ichi , Kobayashi Hiroyuki , Sugiura Ayumi , Yamazaki Tomoo , Shimamoto Satoshi , Igarashi Koji , Joshita Satoru , Umemura Takeji 
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION:
A straightforward, reliable, and noninvasive method for predicting the development of liver-related events (LRE) in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) has not been attained thus far. This study investigated whether serum autotaxin (ATX) could predict LRE in patients with PBC.

METHODS:
This retrospective multicenter investigation included 190 biopsy-proven untreated patients with PBC. All subjects were followed for at least 1 year, during which time the prevalence of LRE, including newly developing hepatocellular carcinoma, esophagogastric varices, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy, was investigated in relation with ATX levels at the time of liver biopsy.

RESULTS:
During the median follow-up period of 9.7 years, LRE were observed in 22 patients (11.6%). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and cutoff value of serum ATX for predicting LRE were 0.80 and 1.086 mg/L, respectively. Patients with serum ATX ≥1.086 had a significantly higher cumulative incidence of LRE compared with patients with ATX < 1.086 (33.3% vs 3.6%, P < 0.00001). Notably, the predictive capability of ATX for LRE in patients with PBC surpassed that of FIB-4, ALBI, APRI, and Mac-2-binding protein glycan isomer. A multivariate Cox proportional hazards model revealed ATX as an independent associated factor for LRE (hazard ratio 6.24, 95% confidence interval 1.87–20.80, P = 0.003) along with Nakanuma stage (hazard ratio 2.75, 95% confidence interval 1.52–4.99, P < 0.001). These results were closely replicated in a serologically diagnosed PBC validation cohort (n = 32).

DISCUSSION:
Serum ATX levels may serve as a predictive marker for LRE in patients with PBC.
A Multi-Institutional Study on Ultrasound Image Analysis for Staging HBV-Derived Liver Fibrosis: A Potential Noninvasive Alternative to Liver Stiffness Measurement
Authors: Wang Jincheng , Cao Lihua , Liu Fang , Li Chunhui , Zhao Peng , Li Zhaoyi , Lu Xiaojie , Ye Xiaohang , Bao Jianfeng 
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION:
Liver stiffness measurement is principal for staging liver fibrosis but not included in routine examinations. We investigated whether comparable diagnostic performance can be achieved by mining ultrasound images and developing a novel serum index (NSI).

METHODS:
Texture features were extracted from ultrasound images. Spearman correlation and logistics regression selected independent variables for significant (F ≥ 2) and advanced (F ≥ 3) fibrosis. We compared the diagnostic performance of transient elastography (TE), ultrasound image biomarker, conventional serum indices (aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index, fibrosis-4 index, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase-to-platelet ratio), and NSI in 365 patients with chronic hepatitis B.

RESULTS:
Among patients, 52.1% had significant fibrosis and 24.2% had advanced fibrosis. PLT, gamma-glutamyl transferase, prealbumin, and globulin were incorporated into NSI. In the validation group, TE achieved the best performance (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.765 [0.690–0.849] for significant fibrosis; 0.812 [0.745–0.878] for advanced fibrosis), followed by ultrasound image biomarker (AUC: 0.712 [0.629–0.795]; 0.678 [0.595–0.763]) and NSI (AUC: 0.630 [0.534–0.725]; 0.659 [0.572–0.745]), outperforming conventional indices.

DISCUSSION:
Texture analysis enhances ultrasound's diagnostic utility, but TE remains superior. When TE is unavailable, ultrasound image analysis and NSI, incorporating prealbumin, can serve as alternative tools for fibrosis staging.
Pemanfaatan Limbah Kulit Tiram Sebagai Substitusi Semen pada Campuran Bata Ringan
Authors: Sandytia Saddam Saktya , Prasetyo Tommi Akbar , Fauziyah Shifa , Hartono Hartono 
Published: October 2024

Indonesian coastal areas of tourist spots that cause large amounts of seafood waste, such as oyster shells, led to the idea of reducing beach pollution by using oyster shells as a partial substitute for lightweight bricks as construction material. Lightweight bricks require high costs and have a heavy mass as walls, so oyster shell powder, which contains calcium carbonate and has a smaller specific gravity, is expected to qualify the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) requirements for lightweight bricks. The research method is quantitative experimental, which observes the effect of variables based on SNI. The composite of the lightweight brick combination is 0.35 Water Cement Ratio (FAS): 1 cement: 2 sand: 1 foam agent: 50 water, and the variable of oyster shell powder added to the cement is 0%, 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% of cement. The quality test for oyster shell powder for making lightweight bricks based on SNI 8640, 2018, includes density, water absorption (porosity), and compressive strength tests. The result of average density analysis for 0% = 986 kg/m³, 3% = 954 kg/m³, 6% = 978 kg/m³, 9% = 920 kg/m³, and 12% = 903 kg /m³. According to the Indonesian National Standard (SNI), the porosity test results maximum is 25%, the result of average porosity analysis at 0% = 21.2%, 3% = 19.2%, 6% = 17.2%, 9% = 23%, and 12% = 24.6%. Compressive strength analysis results at 0% = 2.3 MPa, 3% = 1.9 MPa, 6% = 2.1 MPa, 9% = 1.7 MPa, and 12% = 1.6 MPa. In conclusion, oyster shell powder waste can reduce density, reduce porosity to the optimum point, increase the porosity afterward, increase compressive strength to the optimum point, and reduce compressive strength after passing the optimum point.
Effect and safety of aromatase inhibitors for the treatment of short stature in male children and adolescents: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ye Ruxia , Dai Junru , Huang Yan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) in the treatment of short stature in male children and adolescents. Pooled estimates of final or near-final height, predicted adult height (PAH), bone age, and potential side effects were calculated using a random-effects model or fixed-effects model. Our search identified 11 studies with a total of 463 participants. AI was associated with a significant increase in final or near-final height (weight mean difference (WMD)=3.61 cm, 95 % CI: 0.96, 6.26; p<0.001) and PAH (WMD=2.52 cm, 95 % CI: 0.32, 4.72; p=0.025) compared to other treatment. The use of AI showed an increased risk of minor side effects (risk ratio (RR)=2.90, 95 % CI: 1.15, 7.33; p=0.025), but no severe adverse effects were reported. Subgroup analysis, stratified by patient disease, revealed that AI significantly enhanced final or near-final height in both patients with idiopathic short stature (ISS) and those with constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP). AIs may contribute to height increase in male children and adolescents with short stature, without significantly advancing bone age. However, the increased risk of minor side effects indicates the need for careful monitoring during AI therapy.
Assessment of mechanical and biological properties of Ti–31Nb–7.7Zr alloy for spinal surgery implant
Authors: Kim Dong Hwan , Lee Si Joon , Choi Byung Kwan , Han In Ho , Park Chan Hee , Nam Kyoung Hyup 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
In the development of spinal implants, the properties of materials play a very important role in the function of the implant. This study evaluates the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of Ti–31Nb–7.7Zr alloy compared to the widely used Ti–6Al–4V alloy for spinal implants. Mechanical properties and biocompatibility were tested by manufacturing commercially available screws and rods using Ti–31Nb–7.7Zr alloy. Static compression bending test, static torsion test, and static four-point bending test were performed using a mechanical testing machine in accordance with ASTM F1717-18 standard and ASTM F382-17 standard. Additionally, screw insertion torque analysis was measured through a cadaver experiment, and histologic analysis was performed through animal experiments using a rabbit. It demonstrates that Ti–31Nb–7.7Zr, with its high yield strength and low Young’s modulus, closely matches human bone’s elasticity, potentially reducing stress shielding effects. Mechanical testing shows Ti–31Nb–7.7Zr’s superior performance in static compression, torsion, and bending tests. Biocompatibility assessments in vivo reveal no significant difference between the two materials, suggesting Ti–31Nb–7.7Zr’s suitability for spinal surgery applications. This research supports Ti–31Nb–7.7Zr alloy as a promising candidate for spinal implants, offering improved mechanical compatibility with bone and excellent biocompatibility.
An Illusory Consensus Effect: The Mere Repetition of Information Increases Estimates That Others Would Believe or Already Know It
Authors: Jalbert Madeline , Pillai Raunak 
Published: October 2024

How do people estimate the prevalence of beliefs and knowledge among others? Here, we examine the hypothesis that mere repetition of information increases such perceptions of consensus — an “illusory consensus effect.” Although existing evidence suggests that repeated exposure to information may increase its perceived consensus, the impact of repetition has not been tested in isolation from other source and contextual cues. We conducted two experiments to fill in this gap. Prolific participants located in the U.S. read a series of trivia claims — half true and half false in Experiment 1 and all true in Experiment 2. These claims were not attributed to any source. After a short delay, participants made consensus judgments about previously seen (repeated) and new trivia claims. Repetition significantly increased perceived consensus in both experiments; in Experiment 1, participants judged that more Americans would believe repeated (vs. new) information, and in Experiment 2, participants judged that more Americans knew repeated (vs. new) information. These findings provide strong evidence for an illusory consensus effect, such that mere exposure to information increases perceptions of two different measures of consensus: how many others would believe it as well as estimates of current public knowledge. These findings are relevant to our understanding of how our information environments may contribute to (mis)perceptions of consensus.