bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A novel nomogram based on PET/CT to predict CT-negative lymph nodal metastasis for patients with lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhu Xinyu , Jia Xinyu , Teng Shibing , Fu Kai , Chen Jiawei , Zhao Jun , Li Chang 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Purpose
A precise assessment of lymph nodal status is essential for guiding an individualized treatment plan in lung adenocarcinoma patients. A novel nomogram using easily accessible indicators was developed and validated in this study to predict CT-negative lymph nodal metastasis.
Methods
Between September 2020 and December 2023, data from 132 consecutive patients diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma who underwent lung resection with systemic lymph node dissection or sampling were retrospectively reviewed. Risk factors associated with lymph nodal metastasis were identified using univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Subsequently, a nomogram was developed on basis of these identified parameters. The performance and validity of the nomogram were evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, and bootstrap resampling techniques.
Results
Four predictors (primary tumor location, primary tumor SUVmax value, N1 lymph node SUVmax, and N2 lymph node SUVmax) were identified and incorporated into the nomogram. The nomogram exhibited notable discrimination, evidenced by an area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.825 (95% CI: 0.749–0.886, P < 0.001). Excellent concordance between the predicted and observed probabilities of lymph nodal involvement was demonstrated by the calibration curve. Furthermore, decision curve analysis indicated a net benefit associated with the use of our nomogram.
Conclusion
The nomogram demonstrated efficacy and practicality in predicting CT-negative lymph node metastasis for lung adenocarcinoma patients. It holds potential to offer valuable treatment guidance for clinicians.
Empirical Evidence for a Process-Based Model of Health-Related Quality of Life Using Network Analysis
Authors: Stogios Nicolette , Francis Troy , Peiris Rachel G. , Stanimirovic Aleksandra , Rac Valeria , Nolan Robert P. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Health-related quality of life (HRQL) is the perceived impact of a medical condition on one’s overall well-being. While contemporary assessments are structured to evaluate an individual’s HRQL state, we propose a complementary process-based model, which is defined as an appraisal that evolves over time as it reflects and informs a self-regulatory process of adapting to dynamic changes in bio-psycho-social life domains. In support of this approach, we developed a novel HRQL assessment tool called the EUROIA: EvalUation of goal-diRected activities to prOmote well-beIng and heAlth, which uses self-report data to assess the frequency with which individuals engage in a sample of goal-directed activities in pursuit of living well.
Methods
We conducted a network analysis to evaluate the hypothesis that the EUROIA subscales would demonstrate a meaningful pattern of associations with an established HRQL measure and associated indices of psychosocial functioning and efficacy in self-managing a chronic medical condition.
Results
The EUROIA is associated with established indices of HRQL in a manner that is theoretically consistent with our process-based model. Stability coefficients (i.e., betweenness, closeness, and strength) of the analysis revealed high reliability for the network.
Conclusion
This analysis provides support for the validation of a process-based approach to HRQL assessment, which is represented, in part, by the EUROIA. A process-based approach complements and expands conventional measures of HRQL by focusing on how a patient’s capacity to engage in goal-directed activities for living well is affected by their medical condition.
Identification of Comorbidities and Genomic Associations of Biochemically Analogous Retinal and Brain Tissues Using Bioinformatics Approaches
Authors: Bhosale Rohan P. , Perianayagam Rajesh 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The human retina and brain share similar biochemical compositions, primarily containing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid crucial to neurological functions. Scientific reports indicate that DHA is essential for brain and retinal development, aging, memory formation, synaptic membrane function, photoreceptor biogenesis, and neuroprotection. Epidemiologic studies suggest that diets rich in DHA can slow cognitive impairments, aid in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, and promote ocular health. In this study, we identified comorbidities and genomic associations between retinal and brain tissues using bioinformatics approaches. This involved several key steps: data collection, bioinformatic analysis, comorbidity identification, and studying genomic associations. The project aimed to investigate the connection between retinal and brain disorders by examining altered genetic compositions using automated mutation discovery platforms such as DisGeNET, Cytoscape, and Karyosoft. The hypothesis is that similar biochemical compositions will lead to commonalities in genetic variations and phenotypic expressions. The data helped to understand genomic diseases affecting both the retina and the brain, such as Alzheimer’s disease and age-related macular degeneration.
Comparison of pediatric temporal bone computed tomography at 100kVp with tin filtration versus conventional protocol
Authors: Wang Yiting , Tong Tianfang , Xu Shuming 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Reducing the radiation dose of pediatric temporal bone computed tomography (CT) has always been a challenge.
Objective
To compare radiation doses and conspicuity of anatomic landmarks of the pediatric temporal bone between the CT protocol using spectral beam shaping at 100 kVp with a dedicated tin filter (Sn100 kVp) and the conventional protocol (100 kVp).
Matetials and Methods
: In total 100 children who had undergone head CT for diagnostic purposes and were found to have normal anatomical inner and middle ear structures were included in this study, of these, 50 children were examined with the Sn100kVp protocol and 50 with the conventional protocol. Subjective and objective image qualities, including visualization of temporal bone structures, image quality, image noise, and radiation doses, were compared between the two groups.
Results
The mean dose length product and effective dose (ED) of the Sn100 kVp scans (ED:0.03 ± 0.01 mSv) were significantly lower than those of the 100kVp scans ( ED: 0.50 ± 0.14 mSv, p < 0.001). The signal-to-noise ratio was slightly lower in the Sn100kVp scans than in the 100kVp scans, except for the squamous bone. However, the subjective evaluation of anatomic landmarks was not significantly different between the two groups, except for the labyrinth.
Conclusion
Temporal bone CT performed at 100 kVp with an additional tin fifilter for spectral shaping markedly reduced radiation dose and maintained good anatomic conspicuity in pediatric patients compared with conventional temporal bone CT .
Characterising processing conditions that artifactually bias human brain tissue transcriptomes
Authors: Stratton Jo Anne , Yaqubi Moein , Thomas Michael , Talbot-Martin Jonathan , Mohammadnia Abdulshakour , Allot Alexis , Groh Adam , Petrecca Kevin , Fancy Nurun , Papageorgopoulou Marianna , Zhang Xiaowen , McGarry Aisling , Matthews Paul , Jackson Johanna 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Autopsy-derived brain tissue analysis is vital for exploring the complex landscape of neurobiology in health and disease but processing conditions during post-mortem handling can lead to significant technical artifacts affecting data interpretation. Here, we define brain transcriptomic signatures from healthy adult human brain tissue that was snap frozen in under 1 hour (Mean: 31min, Min: 10min, Max 55min) of extraction (hereafter referred to as ~ 0 hours) and compared it to brain autopsy tissue with either typical shorter (Mean: 6 hours, Min: 4h, Max: 14h) or longer (Mean: 36 hours, Min: 17h, Max: 70h) post-mortem intervals. We found a large number of differentially expressed genes in post-mortem tissue compared to snap frozen tissue, even with the shorter post-mortem intervals. These differences allowed us to define a general “artifactual” gene signature from adult human brain autopsies that arise as a result of post-mortem processing (termed Brain Artifact Gene (BAG) Signatures). We subjected the snap frozen brain samples to different times and temperatures mimicking those typical with autopsy material to determine how these common variables influence brain gene expression. Using this approach, we discovered a set of regulated genes that we defined as “Time and Temperature Response genes Underlying Transcriptional Heterogeneity (TTRUTH)” genes. Using deep learning approaches, we then developed a model capable of modelling the extent to which individual brain autopsy samples from non-neurological disease control donors express artifactual transcripts associated with post-mortem interval time and temperature. This allowed us to assign TTRUTH scores to each individual brain autopsy sample. Moreover, using single nuclear RNA sequencing on paired samples, we identified that neuronal populations are the initial expressers of these artifactual transcripts. As tissue remains at room temperature for extended periods, oligodendrocytes emerge as the predominant cell types expressing artifactual genes. Finally, we provide an Open Science website tool for others to use to determine whether their samples are subject to similar artifacts. Using this tool, the brain autopsy research community can now assign TTRUTH scores to human brain autopsy RNAseq datasets, to provide an additional quality control measure to better standardise datasets, allow additional sample stratification across experimental groups and enhance data interpretation.
Distinctive Hobnail Variant of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: A Case Series From a Tertiary Referral Center
Authors: Yadav Vishal , Lahiri Anupam , Pasricha Sunil , Dewan Ajay Kumar 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Introduction: The hobnail variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (HVPTC) is a rare and aggressive subtype, comprising 1-2% of all PTC cases. It is characterized by poor prognosis, frequent BRAF and p53 mutations, and a high recurrence rate. Given the limited data on HVPTC, especially in the Indian population, this case series aims to provide valuable insights into its clinical behavior, mutational profile, and treatment outcomes.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted from January 2021 to December 2023. Histological reports were reviewed for cases with ≥5% hobnail features, and molecular testing was performed for BRAF and p53 mutations. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and follow-up data were collected. Follow-up included clinical exams, thyroid function tests, thyroglobulin, anti-thyroglobulin antibody levels, and imaging when necessary.
Results: Among 600 PTC cases, 4 were identified as HVPTC (0.67% incidence). The median follow-up was 40 months. Mean tumor size of 3.3 cm. BRAF and p53 positivity were found in 75%. Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) was present in 50% of patients. Recurrence occurred in two patients, both with LVI, despite receiving radioactive iodine and radiotherapy. The largest tumor (6 cm) did not show lymph node metastasis, while smaller tumors (2.2 cm, 2.3 cm) were metastatic. Neither BRAF nor p53 positivity correlated with thyroglobulin levels.
Conclusion: HVPTC exhibits aggressive behavior, particularly in cases with LVI. While BRAF and p53 mutations are common and cause aggressiveness. Risk stratification, early, aggressive management and molecular characterization are essential to improve treatment and outcomes.
The Role of Adjuvant Radiotherapy in Low-Risk Elderly Male Breast Cancer: Is Omission Justified?
Authors: Xu Chang , Zeng Cheng , Meng Hanheng , Ma Fei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The aim of our study is to evaluate the net survival benefit of adjuvant radiotherapy following breast-conserving surgery (BCS) in elderly male patients with early-stage, low-risk breast cancer (node-negative, hormone receptor-positive [HR+]) and to assess whether omitting radiotherapy might be a viable option based on observed survival outcomes.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective cohort study using data from SEER-17 registries (2000–2021), identifying 9,695 male breast cancer (MBC) patients. After applying inclusion criteria and PSM, a total of 360 patients were included. Early-stage, low-risk patients were categorized into radiotherapy (RT) and non-radiotherapy (NRT) groups. A 1:3 nearest neighbor propensity score matching (PSM; caliper = 0.05) was used to adjust for confounders. Estimate the net survival benefit of RT by using overall survival (OS), relative survival (RS), standardized mortality ratio (SMR), and transformed Cox regression, while controlling for background mortality.
Results
In early-stage, low-risk MBC patients underwent BCS, RT did not confer a significant survival benifit compared to those who omitted RT. After PSM adjustment, the 15-year OS, RS, and SMR for the RT group were 31.8%, 1.05, and 2.14, respectively, with no statistically significant differences observed when compared to the NRT group (34.1%, 1.03, and 2.25; p = 0.36, 0.35, and 0.81, respectively). Furthermore, the cumulative incidence of breast cancer-related death (BCRD) and non-BCRD did not differ significantly between the RT and NRT groups. The 15-year cumulative incidences of BCRD and non-BCRD were 7.0% and 61.2% in the RT group, and 12.4% and 53.5% in the NRT group (p = 0.06 and 0.75, respectively). Additionally, compared to the NRT group, the RT group demonstrated a lower risk for both OS and RS within the first 10 years following diagnosis, although this survival benefits gradually diminished over time.
Conclusions
In MBC patients over 65 with T1 − 2N0M0, hormone receptor-positive tumors, radiotherapy showed no significant improvement in overall, disease-specific, or net survival. Therefore, omitting radiotherapy may be justified for early-stage, low-risk patients, aligning treatment with individualized risk assessments.
Trend Analysis and Cross Nations Inequality Analysis of Infectious Skin Diseases from 1990 to 2021
Authors: Yu Bing , Liang Xiaofeng , Wan Gexiao , Nie Hanhui , Liu Hongfang , Xie Lingfeng , He Liya , Yuan Juanna , Chen Xinsheng , Mo Dongdong , Fan Ruiqiang , Xie Ting 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The skin serves as a crucial barrier against microbial invasion, but breaches in this barrier can lead to infectious skin diseases (ISD). ISD, including bacterial (BSD), fungal (FSD) and viral Skin Disease (VSD), pose significant global health challenges.
Methods
Age-standardized and age specific incidence, prevalence, and lived with disability (YLDs) data for ISD were sourced from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 (GBD 2021) and demographic data from the United Nations. We utilized linear regression to analyze prevalence trends and Average Annual Percentage Change (AAPC) for BSD, FSD and VSD. Log transformation of prevalence rates addressed heteroscedasticity. Cross-national inequality was assessed using concentration and slope indices based on SDI.
Result
From the prevalence perspective, FSD continues to rank first, with a prevalence rate of 7,789.55 (95% CI: 7,059.28 to 8,583.54) in 2021. Interestingly, VSD overtakes BSD, with a prevalence rate of 1,781.31 (95% CI: 1,733.08 to 1,835.16), while BSD has a prevalence rate of 473.98 (95% CI: 463.37 to 484.64). Next, looking at YLDs, VSD rises to the first position in 2021, with YLDs rate of 54.77 (95% CI: 34.83 to 81.77). FSD comes next, with YLDs rate of 43.39 (95% CI: 17.79 to 89.10). Lastly, BSD has YLDs rate of 4.21 (95% CI: 2.36 to 7.20). The rate of YLDs for FSD is primarily concentrated among the elderly, while VSD are concentrated among children. There is no significant difference for BSD. The burden is greater for males than females. The prevalence of BSD and FSD is negatively correlated with the Socio-demographic Index (SDI), with the burden primarily concentrated in low SDI countries. VSD shows a positive correlation, mainly concentrated in high SDI countries.
Conclusion
We discovered that the global impact of ISD remains significant. Both BSD and FSD are increasing, while VSD are decreasing. FSD is more common among the elderly, whereas VSD predominantly affects children. BSD and FSD are primarily found in less developed areas such as Africa, whereas VSD is more prevalent in developed regions like Europe and North America. ISD cases are also increasing in the Middle East and South America. To reduce the burden of ISD, it is crucial to improve global hygiene standards, boost vaccination rates against viruses, and strictly regulate the use of antimicrobial drugs.
A Malaysian Study on COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) Vaccination Immune Response in Haemodialysis patients: A prospective, multicenter, cohort study
Authors: FANG TAN XUE 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) have compromised immune systems, possibly reducing their vaccine-induced antibody responses compared to the general population. This study aims to determine the immunogenicity of this group to the COVID-19 vaccine.
Methods: Haemodialysis patients receiving the Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccine were followed for at least 13 months. Blood samples were collected prior to every vaccine dose and at multiple intervals thereafter. Neutralising antibodies (nAb) against SARS-CoV-2 were measured. Patients voluntarily reported any COVID-19 infection.
Results: Between April 2021 and January 2023, 271 patients received at least one dose of the vaccine; 212 of these had at least one blood sample tested for nAb. Booster doses were given 26.2 weeks after the second dose. nAbs were detected in 16.8% of patients before vaccination. The nAb levels were higher than the non-convalescent patients after the first dose, but it was not statistically significant. Breakthrough infections occurred in 29.3% patients. They were not associated with history of COVID-19 infection (p=0.188). There were 34 deaths (16.0%); 2 related to COVID-19. Younger age was associated with higher nAb reactivity post-first dose, but this difference diminished after the second dose.
Conclusion: Almost complete seropositivity (98.4%) was achieved after two doses of vaccine. Sustained antibody levels after the third dose underscore the importance of a booster dose in protecting this vulnerable population. However, the occurrence of breakthrough infections highlights the need for continued monitoring, preventive measures, and further research to optimize vaccination strategies in haemodialysis patients.
A systemic review of economic challenges in Bangladesh
Authors: Akter Bilkish , Bepari Sapan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Bangladesh suffers enormous economic issues, such as inflation, unemployment, corruption, and poor infrastructure. These concerns limit the country's potential to achieve long-term economic growth and stability. The goal of this research is to investigate how these factors interact with and affect Bangladesh's economy, providing an in-depth examination of their consequences. A systematic review methodology was used to analyse a variety of papers concentrating on Bangladesh's economic issues.
The findings show that inflation weakens economic stability by increasing living costs and lowering household welfare, whereas unemployment, particularly among young people, limits the country's economic potential. Corruption further stifles the economy by discouraging foreign direct investment (FDI) and causing inefficiencies in both the public and private sectors. Furthermore, poor infrastructure, particularly in energy and transportation, discourages investment and hampers industrial development.
On the basis of these findings, the research advises extensive reforms such as anticorruption campaigns, job creation techniques, and considerable infrastructure investment. These steps are critical to stabilizing the economy and realizing Bangladesh's full potential for long-term growth.
Telemedicine-assisted cardiac rehabilitation: A controlled cohort clinical trial
Authors: Mishina I. E. , Berezina E. V. , Blinova K. A. , Parfenov A. S. , Lebedeva O. V. , Khoroshilova O. V. , Gudukhin A. A. , Zhaburina M. V. , Dovgaluk Yu. V. 
Published: October 2024

Introduction. The traditional method of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) recommends continuing physical training at home, but many patients do not follow these instructions and the effectiveness of the rehabilitation program decreases. Thanks to the use of telemedicine technologies, the doctor can remotely monitor the patient’s condition, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of training. Aim. To test the method of organizing telemedicine support for CR of patients who have suffered a myocardial infarction.Materials and methods. During the study, 27 patients underwent CR with telemedicine support, and 26 patients underwent traditional CR. To assess the effectiveness of using telemedicine technologies in CR, the results of the six-minute walk test under the control of an electrocardiogram were assessed using the Accordix telemedicine system (Neurosoft LLC, Ivanovo) before and after the rehabilitation program.Results. After the end of the CR, in the group of patients with telemedicine support, during the six-minute walk test, reliable indicators of an increase in the distance covered were revealed compared to the results of patients in the control group (72 [52; 99.5] m vs. 45 [0.75; 51] m, p < 0.05), restoration of tolerance to physical activity (the ratio of the distance covered to the expected 15 [11.5; 18.5]% vs. 3 [-1.75; 8.75]%, p < 0.05), as well as an increase in the time the pulse stays in the training corridor (15% vs. 0.04%, p < 0.05). Also, in patients in the telemedicine CR group, the number of workouts was significantly higher (14.5 [12.5; 17] vs. 8.5 [4.5; 11.5], p < 0.05).Conclusion. The presented method of conducting CR using telemedicine technologies has shown greater efficiency compared to the traditional approach. Changes recorded using ECG are analyzed by the telemedicine system, ensuring control and safety of physical activity. The use of telemedicine technologies allows the patient to reduce the fear of repeated myocardial infarction and increase adherence to CR.