bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Leveraging OGTT derived metabolic features to detect Binge-eating disorder in individuals with high weight: a “seek out” machine learning approach
Authors: Segura-Garcia Cristina , Rania Marianna , Procopio Anna , Zaffino Paolo , Carbone Elvira Anna , Fiorentino Teresa Vanessa , Andreozzi Francesco , Cosentino Carlo , Arturi Franco 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Binge eating disorder (BED) carries a 6 times higher risk for obesity and accounts for roughly 30% of type 2 diabetes cases. Timely identification of early glycemic disturbances and comprehensive treatment can impact on the likelihood of associated metabolic complications and the overall outcome. Machine learning (ML) techniques were trained with static and dynamic glucose-derived measures to detect BED among 281 individuals with high weight. The pipeline (training, validation, testing) was conducted twice, on two different datasets (2 hours, and 5 hours-long glucose load). After features selection, multiple ML algorithms were trained to classify the sample. The best classifier was then applied to an independent cohort (N = 21). A sensitivity-based analysis was run to investigate the relevance of each feature in the classification. 14 features were selected as relevant, with the support vector machine showing the best performance in classifying BED in both models. The model on the 5 hours-long OGTT exhibited the best metrics (sensitivity = 0.75, specificity = 0.67, F score = 0.71) diagnosing BED in 7 out of 10 cases. Sex, HOMA-IR, HbA1c and plasma glucose in different times, and hypoglycemia events were the most sensitive features for BED diagnosis. This study is the first to use metabolic hallmarks to train ML algorithms for detecting BED in individuals at high risk for metabolic complications. ML techniques applied to objective and reliable glycemic features might prompt the identification of BED among individuals at high risk for metabolic complications, enabling timely and tailored multidisciplinary treatment.
MiRNA-122-5p is Upregulated in Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Decelerates the Transition from the Inflammatory to the Proliferative Stage
Authors: Yuan Meijie , Huang Hechen , Shi Hongshuo , Hu Xiaoming , Zhao Zhuo , Chen Yuqi , Fan Weijing , Sun Jian , Liu Guobin 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Transitioning from the inflammatory to the proliferative stage is critical in treating diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), yet current treatment options are limited. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) hold significant potential in enhancing DFU healing. Previous studies have shown that miR-122-5p targets the regulation of diabetic metalloproteinases, impacting the extracellular matrix. We hypothesize that miR-122-5p plays a crucial role in the healing of DFU. MiR-122-5p levels in skin tissue samples from both patients with diabetic ulcers and diabetic mice were evaluated using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The streptozotocin-induced diabetes mouse model for diabetic wound healing was utilized. Animals were randomized to receive intradermal injections of either an AAVDJ empty vector (AAVDJ-EV, control) or AAVDJ-miR-122 upregulation vector. Mice were euthanized at different intervals (3, 7, and 14 days post-injury), and wound tissues were collected for gene marker analysis, histological evaluation, immunohistochemistry, and network analysis. The study focused on proteins involved in the transition from the inflammatory to the proliferative stage during DFU healing. Additionally, the role of miR-122-5p in mediating interactions between mouse macrophages and fibroblasts was analyzed. FISH and qRT-PCR results indicated that miR-122-5p levels were significantly upregulated in diabetic skin, both in individuals with DFU and diabetic mice, compared to controls. Western blot, IHC, and ELISA results indicated that in vitro, upregulation of miR-122-5p increased MMP9 expression and levels of inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and HIF-1α, while concurrently decreasing expression levels of VEGF and markers associated with fibrosis such as FN1 and α-SMA.Our findings confirmed that miR-122-5p increases inflammatory cytokines and reduces fibrosis in fibroblasts cultured with macrophage-conditioned media.MiR-122-5p increased inflammation and reduce fibrosis during wound healing of diabetic mice, slowing the transition from the inflammatory to the proliferative stage. These findings open the door to understanding how miRNAs functionally contribute to human skin wound healing.
Using the IFASIS (Inventory of Factors Affecting Successful Implementation and Sustainment) to Advance Context-Specific and Generalizable Knowledge of Implementation Determinants: Case Study of a Digital Contingency Management Platform
Authors: Jakubowski Andrea , Patrick Briana , DiClemente-Bosco Kira , Salino Sarah , Scott Kelli , Becker Sara 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Contingency management (CM) is the most effective treatment for stimulant use disorder but is underutilized by opioid treatment programs (OTPs), despite the high prevalence of stimulant use in this setting. As part of a state-wide initiative, we piloted a novel assessment, the Inventory of Factors Affecting Successful Implementation and Sustainment (IFASIS), to examine determinants of implementation of a digital CM platform across a set of OTPs. We describe how the IFASIS was used to elucidate both generalizable and context-specific implementation determinants, and to guide the provision of implementation facilitation.
Methods
Six OTPs received a multi-level implementation strategy (including facilitation) to promote programmatic uptake of a digital CM platform. Pre-implementation, OTPs completed the IFASIS, a 27-item questionnaire that assesses both the valence (positive/negative) and importance of determinants across 4 domains: outside the organization, within the organization, about the intervention, and about intervention recipients. OTP staff completed the IFASIS as a team, identifying consensus ratings during recorded discussions. Transcripts of IFASIS recordings were analyzed using rapid qualitative analysis. Quantitative IFASIS results were aggregated into medians and ranges within and across organizations. Implementation facilitation meeting notes were analyzed to examine how the IFASIS was used to guide facilitation.
Results
Quantitative ratings and qualitative feedback revealed common barriers to implementation of the digital CM platform, including a lack of sustainable funding sources, absence of external and organizational policies, insufficient higher-level leadership support, and mixed attitudes among staff members toward CM. Common implementation facilitators included enthusiasm and commitment among organization leadership and the perception that the digital CM platform would reduce the workload and burden on OTP counselors. The IFASIS was used to guide facilitation in several ways, including stimulating discussion about barriers and facilitators, brainstorming strategies to address barriers rated as “very important”, and identifying facilitators that could be harnessed as part of implementation efforts.
Conclusions
The IFASIS identified important determinants of CM implementation in OTPs and was instrumental in shaping facilitation. The IFASIS may be a valuable assessment for the implementation science community to identify and address generalizable and context-specific implementation determinants.
The electromagnetic navigation ultrasonography guidance for portal vein access during transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation
Authors: Tan Yuping , Li Xi , Li WenBo , Xiong Fei , Bao WeiDong , Dai YongZhou , Yue LinJun , Wu Yu , Liu Yuan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This study aims to assess the feasibility and safety of utilizing electromagnetic navigation ultrasonography (ENU) guidance during transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation.
Methods
Portal vein (PV) puncture during TIPS procedures was facilitated using an ENU system device. Key procedural metrics recorded for each case included the number of needle passes, fluoroscopy time, total procedure duration, dose area product (DAP), air kerma (AK), and incidence of procedural complications.
Results
The study included six patients (five men and one woman) with a mean age of 50.6 ± 13.4 years (range, 33–72 years). With ENU guidance, the mean number of needle passes for successful PV entry was 1.7 ± 0.7 (range, 1 to 3 passes). The average fluoroscopy time for the entire TIPS procedure was 15.3 ± 2.7 minutes (range, 11–19 minutes), and the mean total procedure duration was 91.7 ± 7.8 minutes. The mean DAP associated with the procedure was 143 ± 38.5 Gy · cm2 (range, 89–196 Gy · cm2), with a median AK of 707.7 ± 212.8 mGy (range, 367–1008 mGy). Notably, no clinically significant puncture-related complications were observed.
Conclusion
Electromagnetic navigation ultrasonography (ENU) guidance demonstrates potential feasibility, safety, and effectiveness in assisting with TIPS procedures.
A Study on the Effectiveness of Combining Ranibizumab and Dexamethasone Implants for Treating Macular Edema in Retinal Vein Occlusion and Diabetic Eye Disease
Authors: Fu Xiangxiang , Ying Jianing , Chen Lishuang , Zhang Yanyan , Li Hu , Yi Quanyong 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Macular edema (ME), a leading cause of vision impairment, is common in patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) and diabetic macular edema (DME). This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of combining ranibizumab, an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agent, with dexamethasone implants for treating ME secondary to RVO and DME.
Methods
This retrospective study involved 61 patients diagnosed with ME secondary to RVO (n = 48) or DME (n = 13) treated at Ningbo Ophthalmology Hospital, China. All patients received intravitreal injections of ranibizumab and dexamethasone implants, with outcomes measured at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months post-treatment. Primary outcomes included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) levels, and intraocular pressure (IOP).
Results
Both RVO and DME groups showed significant improvement in BCVA, with the DME group demonstrating more sustained benefits. CRT decreased significantly at 1 month post-treatment and remained lower than baseline at 3 and 6 months. Although VEGF and ICAM-1 levels showed reductions post-treatment, these changes were not statistically significant. IOP increased at 1 month but returned to baseline by 3 months and remained stable.
Conclusions
Combining ranibizumab with dexamethasone implants effectively reduces ME and improves visual outcomes in RVO and DME patients, with a manageable safety profile. Further studies are needed to validate these findings and refine long-term treatment protocols.
Low Bone Mineral Density of the Spine in Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy and Scoliosis Relates to Poor Spinal Deformity Correction
Authors: Tsaknakis Konstantinos , Scheulen Charlotte , Lüders Katja , Siggelkow Heide , Lorenz Heiko , Braunschweig Lena , Hell Anna 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Non-ambulant adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) may develop secondary scoliosis requiring surgical correction. However, low bone mineral density may counteract benefits of surgical treatment. This study aims to examine volumetric bone mineral density in adolescents with CP and scoliosis and its effect on scoliosis treatment. Spinal vBMD was evaluated on computed tomography (CT) of 51 adolescents with CP and scoliosis (15.0 ± 2.6 years). 62 CTs of patients (15.1 ± 2.3 years) with trauma or other acute and not bone related conditions provided vBMD reference values for Z-scores extrapolation. Other present factors such as epilepsy, medication or pathological fractures were examined in relation to vBMD. Pre- and postoperative spinal radiographs were compared for achieved correction of deformity. Adolescents with CP had significantly lower vBMD (123.3 ± 46.3 mg/cm3) compared to healthy controls (166.9 ± 31.4 mg/cm3). Patients with pathological fractures (n = 8) showed the lowest measurements (97.3 ± 49.8 mg/cm3). Male patients had significantly lower Z-scores (-2.2 ± 1.6, n = 22) compared to their female counterparts (-1.0 ± 1.3, n = 29). Higher vBMD values (179.2 ± 45.4 mg/cm3, n = 41) correlated significantly to scoliosis angle reduction > 50% (average 67.0 ± 12%), while lower vBMD (134.9 ± 30.9 mg/cm3, n = 7) related to reduction ≤ 50% (average 36.8 ± 14%). Non-ambulant adolescents with CP have lower vBMD values compared to healthy population, which negatively affects surgical correction of scoliosis. Level of Evidence/Clinical relevance: Therapeutic Level III
Comparison of different acceleration factors of artificial intelligence-compressed sensing for brachial plexus MR imaging: scanning time and image quality
Authors: Cheng Tianxin , Li Feifei , Jiang Xuetao , Yu Dan , Wei Jie , Yuan Ying , Xu Hui 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: 3D brachial plexus MRI scanning is prone to examination failure due to the lengthy scan times, which can lead to patient discomfort and motion artifacts. Our purpose is to investigate the efficacy of artificial intelligence-assisted compressed sensing (ACS) in improving the acceleration efficiency and maintaining or enhancing the image quality of brachial plexus MR imaging.
Methods: A total of 30 volunteers underwent 3D sampling perfection with application-optimized contrast using different flip angle evolution short time inversion recovery using a 3.0T MR scanner. The imaging protocol included parallel imaging (PI) and ACS employing acceleration factors of 4.37, 6.22, and 9.03. Radiologists evaluated the neural detail display, fat suppression effectiveness, presence of image artifacts, and overall image quality. Signal intensity and standard deviation of specific anatomical sites within the brachial plexus and background tissues were measured, with signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) subsequently calculated. Cohen's weighted kappa (κ), One-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis and pairwise comparisons with Bonferroni-adjusted significance level. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: ACS significantly reduced scanning times compared to PI. Evaluations revealed differences in subjective scores and SNR across the sequences (P<0.05), with no marked differences in CNR (P>0.05). For subjective scores, ACS 9.03 were lower than the other three sequences in neural details display, image artifacts and overall image quality. There was no significant difference in fat suppression. For objective quantitative evaluation, SNR of right C6 root in ACS 6.22 and ACS 9.03 was higher than that in PI; SNR of left C6 root in ACS 4.37, ACS 6.22 and ACS 9.03 was higher than that in PI; SNR of medial cord in ACS 6.22, ACS 9.03 was higher than that in PI.
Conclusion: Compared with PI, ACS can shorten scanning time while ensuring good image quality.
The effect of brief and focused mindfulness meditation on young adults using EEG approach with machine learning
Authors: Luo Yongxin , Zhang Yaoyao , Zhai Yuqing , Lu Zhixiang , Shou Lujia , Hu Li , Chen Yu , He Wei , Qin Yue , Anwar Nafisa , Zhang Zhongfu , Xu Shutian , Sun Pingping , Lu Jianwei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Our study seeks to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying brief mindfulness meditation through the utilization of electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings and machine learning techniques. Twenty-four participants underwent mindfulness training, with pre- and post-practice physiological assessments and EEG recordings. Deep learning was used to analyze EEG data to predict mindfulness states. Models like Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) classified meditation vs. rest, with LSTM achieving 72.8% accuracy, MLP 62.4%, and CNN 64.1%. In addition, EEG analysis revealed that reduced frontal delta activity and increased alpha, beta, and gamma activity during a brief and focused mindfulness meditation. The power spectral density (PSD) of focused mindfulness meditation state in the left (F7) and right frontal (F4, TP10) was positively correlated with difference in heart rate before and after meditation. Our results in EEG and physiological measurements suggested that brief and focused mindfulness meditation could reduce anxiety and stress by inducing a hypometabolic state of the body and a tranquil but alert state of the mind. The LSTM model is a reliable data-driven approach to predict the state of focused mindfulness meditation.
Fabrication and evaluation of dissolving bird-bill microneedle arrays
Authors: Amano Natsumi , Takaki Yuusei , Takei Harunori , Matsuo Masaaki , Hara Masaya , Tashiro Yasunori , Oniki Takahiro , Ito Takahiro , Hikima Tomohiro 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Coated microneedles (MNs) have some disadvantages, such as low mechanical strength, the risk of clogging and infection due to repeated application, and denaturation at high temperatures. We aimed to fabricate a dissolving bird-bill MN (dBB MN) with a vertical groove between two thin plate-shaped needles and evaluated its ability of transdermally deliver a large-molecular-weight insulin drug into systemic circulation. Hydrogels with various concentrations of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) or sodium hyaluronate (HA) were prepared, and dBB MN arrays were fabricated by micromolding under negative pressure for potential mass production. The needle height of the dBB MN was maximum when the hydrogel was 25 w/w% PVP, with a viscosity of 8–9 Pa∙s. Furthermore, the buckling force of dBB MNs made from 25 w/w% PVP was 130.6 ± 51.0 mN, which increased to 195.6 ± 65.3 mN when insulin was added at 1 w/w%. The blood glucose concentration in diabetic rats decreased slowly and significantly after a 3-h application of the insulin-loaded dBB MN array. Therefore, the dBB MN array demonstrated sufficient ability to puncture rat skin and transdermally deliver a large-molecular-weight drug into the systemic circulation. These findings suggest that the dBB MN array holds promise as a minimal invasive drug delivery platform, with potential applications in improving patient adherence and expanding access to essential therapies, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Atrial fibrillation in adult cardiac patients undergoing follow-up at Adama Hospital Medical College: using a log-binomial regression model
Authors: Yousuf Eyob , Tesfaye Demu , Chala Tesfaye , Charkos Tesfaye Getachew 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent arrhythmia, that is frequently associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Studies on atrial fibrillation among patients with cardiovascular disease in Ethiopia are currently scarce. Therefore, understanding the prevalence and associated risk factors for AF is crucial for guiding appropriate management and preventive strategies.
Methods
A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 1 to December 30, 2023. A simple random sampling method was used to select the study participants. A structured checklist was used to collect the data. The study applied a log-binomial regression model to assess the associations between atrial fibrillation and independent variables, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and relative risks (RRs). All analyses were performed using STATA (version 17) software.
Results
A total of 312 participants were included in this study. Overall, the prevalence of atrial fibrillation was 19.6% (95% CI: 15.2–24.0). The majority had longstanding AF (80.3%), followed by persistent AF (16.4%) and paroxysmal AF (3.2%). According the adjusted model, history of valvular heart disease (RR: 3.05; 95% CI: 2.13–4.374), stroke (RR: 3.28; 95% CI: 2.65–4.09), khat chewing (RR: 4.35; 95% CI: 2.70–7.024), CKD (RR: 2.74; 95% CI: 2.20–3.40), cardiomyopathy (RR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.02–3.89), and IHD (RR: 0.20; 95% CI: 0.07–0.56) were significantly associated with atrial fibrillation among adult cardiac patients.
Conclusion
Overall, the prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) was 19.6% among cardiac patients in this study. Valvular heart disease (VHD), a history of stroke, and khat chewing were independently associated with AF in this study population. These findings emphasize the multifactorial nature of AF and provide valuable insights into potential risk factors for cardiac patients.
Feasibility study of PET/CT for the detection and localization of nervous system damage caused by trimethyltin chloride
Authors: Liu Anqing , Tu Qingqiang , Huang Ming 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Trimethyltin chloride (TMT), an organotin compound with potent neurotoxicity, is widely used as a heat stabilizer for plastics. however, the precise pathogenic mechanism of TMT remains incompletely elucidated, and there persists a dearth of sensitive detection methodologies for early diagnosis of TMT. In this study, Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with 10 mg/kg TMT to simulate acute exposure in humans. Micro-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (Micro-PET/CT) and molecular imaging quantitative analysis tools were employed to calculate the uptake rate of 18F-2-fluoro-D-deoxy-glucose in each functional region of brain tissue. At the same time, the neurobehavioral test and neuropathological results of the experimental rats were compared, aiming to assess the feasibility of PET/CT in the detection and localization of TMT nervous system damage from many aspects. The results showed that TMT decreased glucose uptake in a wide range of brain tissues in rats, and impaired the memory, muscle strength, coordination ability and emotion of rats. Moreover, TMT induced neuronal damage within the cerebral cortex, hippocampal CA1, CA3 and DG regions as well as the cerebellum while also promoting gliosis surrounding the hippocampus. PET/CT imaging results are highly consistent with behavioral and pathological results. In conclusion, TMT induces a widespread reduction in energy metabolism across various brain regions, and PET/CT can serve as a sensitive detection method for TMT-induced encephalopathy.
Key drivers of large scale changes in North Atlantic atmospheric and oceanic circulations and their predictability
Authors: Dong Buwen , Aksenov Yevgeny Yevgeny , Colfescu Ioana , Harvey Ben , Hirschi Joël , Josey Simon , Lu Hua , Mecking Jenny , Oltmanns Marilena , Osprey Scott , Robson Jon , Rynders Stefanie , Shaffrey Len , Sinha Bablu , Sutton Rowan , Weisheimer Antje 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Significant changes have occurred during the last few decades across the North Atlantic climate system, including in the atmosphere, ocean, and cryosphere. These large-scale changes play a vital role in shaping regional climate and extreme weather events across the UK and western Europe. This review synthesizes the characteristics of observed large-scale changes in North Atlantic atmospheric and oceanic circulations during past decades, identifies the drivers and physical processes responsible for these changes, outlines projected changes due to anthropogenic warming, and discusses the predictability of these circulations. On multi-decadal time scales, internal variability, anthropogenic forcings (especially greenhouse gases), and natural forcings (such as solar variability and volcanic eruptions) are identified as key contributors to large-scale variability in North Atlantic atmospheric and oceanic circulations. However, there remain many uncertainties regarding the detailed characteristics of these various influences, and in some cases their relative importance. We therefore conclude that a better understanding of these drivers, and more precise quantification of their relative roles, are crucial for more reliable decadal predictions and projections of regional climate for the North Atlantic and Europe.