bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
‘Watkins’ & ‘Watkins2.0’: Smart phone applications (Apps) for gait-assessment in normal pressure hydrocephalus and decompensated long-standing overt ventriculomegaly
Authors: Tariq Kanza , Thorne Lewis , Toma Ahmed , Watkins Laurence 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
Gait disturbance is one of the features of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) and decompensated long-standing overt ventriculomegaly (LOVA). The timed-up-and-go (TUG) test and the timed-10-m-walking test (10MWT) are frequently used assessments tools for gait and balance disturbances in NPH and LOVA, as well as several other disorders. We aimed to make smart-phone apps which perform both the 10MWT and the TUG-test and record the results for individual patients, thus making it possible for patients to have an objective assessment of their progress. Patients with a suitable smart phone can perform repeat assessments in their home environment, providing a measure of progress for them and for their clinical team.

Methods
10MWT and TUG-test were performed by 50 healthy adults, 67 NPH and 10 LOVA patients, as well as 5 elderly patients as part of falls risk assessment using the Watkins2.0 app. The 10MWT was assessed with timed slow-pace and fast-pace. Statistical analysis used SPSS (version 25.0, IBM) by paired t-test, comparing the healthy and the NPH cohorts. Level of precision of the app as compared to a clinical observer using a stopwatch was evaluated using receiver operating characteristics curve.

Results
As compared to a clinical observer using a stopwatch, in 10MWT the app showed 100% accuracy in the measure of time taken to cover distance in whole seconds, 95% accuracy in the number of steps taken with an error ± 1–3 steps, and 97% accuracy in the measure of total distance covered with error of ± 0.25–0.50 m. The TUG test has 100% accuracy in time taken to complete the test in whole seconds, 97% accuracy in the number of steps with an error of ± 1–2 steps and 87.5% accuracy in the distance covered with error of ± 0.50 m. In the measure of time, the app was found to have equal sensitivity as an observer. In measure of number of steps and distance, the app demonstrated high sensitivity and precision (AUC > 0.9). The app also showed significant level of discrimination between healthy and gait-impaired individuals.

Conclusion
‘Watkins’ and ‘Watkins2.0’ are efficient apps for objective performance of 10MWT and the TUG-test in NPH and LOVA patients and has application in several other pathologies characterised by gait and balance disturbance.
Don’t jump the gun quite yet: aiming for the true target in plant neurobiology research
Authors: Calvo Paco , Raja Vicente , Segundo-Ortin Miguel 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
In their recent paper, Kingsland and Taiz argue that proponents of plant intelligence and plant neurobiology misuse historical sources to support their claims, suggesting a pattern of bias. They critique the reliance on subjective judgments and the systematic misuse of past literature by notable scientists. This response addresses their criticisms while adhering to Rapoport’s rules to foster constructive academic dialogue. We emphasize the importance of evidence-based research and highlight areas of agreement, including the fallacy of appealing to authority and the necessity for more robust empirical evidence. However, we also challenge their selective citation practices and argue that their narrative itself is subject to the same criticisms they levy. By examining recent works and pointing out overlooked rebuttals, we aim to clarify misconceptions and advocate for a more nuanced understanding of plant intelligence research. This dialogue underscores the need for rigorous, respectful scientific discourse to advance the field.
Direct versus fully digital indirect bracket bonding: a split-mouth randomized clinical trial on accuracy
Authors: Hoekstra-van Hout Pauline M.J. , Hoekstra Jan Willem M. , Bruggink Robin , Bronkhorst Ewald M. , Ongkosuwito Edwin M. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Objectives
The primary aim is to assess differences in accuracy of orthodontic bracket positioning between fully digital indirect bracket bonding (IDB) and conventional direct bracket bonding (DBB). The secondary aims are to assess differences in bracket bonding failures, bracket repositioning need, clinician experience and patient satisfaction.

Materials and methods
This prospective study was designed as a split-mouth randomized clinical trial. In total, 35 patients were analyzed with a six month follow-up period. Translational and orientational deviations from the planned bracket position were determined. Clinician experience and patient satisfaction were evaluated by means of a survey.

Results
The difference in translation was 0.34 mm (95% CI: 0.238–0.352, p = 0.017), the difference in orientation was 4.80˚ (95% CI: 3.858–5.727, p < 0.001), both in favour of IDB. IDB showed significantly more immediate (IDB: 3.9%, DBB: 0%) and late (IDB: 5.4%, DBB: 2.5%, p = 0.008) bonding failures. Clinicians and patients experienced a shorter clinical chair time with indirect bonding over direct bonding.

Conclusions
IDB bracket positioning leads to significant smaller translation and orientation deviations from digital IDB planning, than DBB bracket positioning. However, IDB leads to more immediate bonding failures than DBB. The majority of patients preferred IDB over DBB, due to a shorter clinical chair time.

Clinical relevance
This study adds to the knowledge of IDB in orthodontics and contributes to evidence on this technique. This evidence is applicable in everyday orthodontics, with respect to patient satisfaction and technical limits of IDB. The trial was registered in the Dutch Trial Register and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) of the World Health Organization (WHO), number NL9411.
Evaluating treatment practices and challenges in systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: a comprehensive survey analysis
Authors: Tan Xiaohua , Zhao Xiaozhen , Deng Jianghong , Li Chao , Zhang Junmei , Li Shipeng , Li Caifeng 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Objective
This study aims to assess current diagnostic and management for systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (sJIA) among physicians, evaluate the challenges encountered in diagnosis and treatment, and identify the educational needs and professional development engagements of physicians managing sJIA.

Methods
A nationwide survey was conducted from November 2023 to March 2024 across tertiary and secondary pediatric and general hospitals in China. The survey targeted physicians with at least three years of specialty experience, resulting in 310 valid responses from 25 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities. The survey collected data on diagnostic practices, treatment approaches, and professional development related to sJIA. Data collection was facilitated through WeChat, and statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Beijing Children’s Hospital, with informed consent provided electronically by participants.

Results
The survey indicated that all physicians encountered suspected or confirmed cases of sJIA, highlighting its prevalence and the diagnostic challenges associated. Regarding diagnostic standards, 53.9% of physicians used the “Consensus on the Diagnosis and Treatment of sJIA and Macrophage Activation Syndrome,” 18.1% followed the International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR) standards, and 24.8% adhered to the Pediatric Rheumatology International Trials Organization (PRINTO) standards. In treatment strategies, glucocorticoids and IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibodies were extensively used, with the latter receiving “excellent” and “satisfactory” ratings of 46.5% and 36.1%, respectively, demonstrating high efficacy and acceptance. Main challenges included high treatment costs, complexity of diagnosis, patient compliance issues, and potential long-term side effects of biologics. Additionally, 126 doctors (40.7%) actively participated in more than three academic conferences or systematic learning courses related to sJIA, indicating a strong demand for ongoing education, particularly in new treatment developments and diagnostic skills.

Conclusion
The findings emphasize the necessity for standardized diagnosis and customized treatment plans tailored to patient-specific conditions in managing sJIA.

Key Points• The survey highlights the prevalence and clinical challenges of sJIA among physicians, emphasizing the importance of vigilant diagnosis, multi-system involvement, and differential diagnosis to improve treatment outcomes and patient quality of life.
Research progress on the pathogenesis of AKI complicated by ECMO
Authors: Sun Keke , Yao Congcong , Xu Guowu , Wang Jinxiang , Shou Songtao , Jin Heng 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) stands as a pivotal intervention for patients grappling with cardiopulmonary insufficiency. However, alongside its therapeutic benefits, ECMO carries the risk of complications, with acute kidney injury (AKI) emerging as a significant concern. The precise pathophysiological underpinnings of AKI in the context of ECMO remain incompletely elucidated.

Methods
A comprehensive literature review was conducted to explore the epidemiology and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the utilization of ECMO in the management of AKI.

Results
ECMO initiates a multifaceted cascade of inflammatory reactions, encompassing complement activation, endothelial dysfunction, white blood cell activation, and cytokine release. Furthermore, factors such as renal hypoperfusion, ischemia–reperfusion injury, hemolysis, and fluid overload exacerbate AKI. Specifically, veno-arterial ECMO (VA-ECMO) may directly induce renal hypoperfusion, whereas veno-venous ECMO (VV-ECMO) predominantly impacts pulmonary function, indirectly influencing renal function.

Conclusion
While ECMO offers significant therapeutic advantages, AKI persists as a potentially fatal complication. A thorough comprehension of the pathogenesis underlying ECMO-associated AKI is imperative for effective prevention and management strategies. Moreover, additional research is warranted to delineate the incidence of AKI secondary to ECMO and to refine clinical approaches accordingly.
Intestinal permeability disturbances: causes, diseases and therapy
Authors: Macura Barbara , Kiecka Aneta , Szczepanik Marian 
Published: September 2024

AbstractNowadays, a pathological increase in the permeability of the intestinal barrier (the so-called leaky gut) is increasingly being diagnosed. This condition can be caused by various factors, mainly from the external environment. Damage to the intestinal barrier entails a number of adverse phenomena: dysbiosis, translocation of microorganisms deep into the intestinal tissue, immune response, development of chronic inflammation. These phenomena can ultimately lead to a vicious cycle that promotes the development of inflammation and further damage to the barrier. Activated immune cells in mucosal tissues with broken barriers can migrate to other organs and negatively affect their functioning. Damaged intestinal barrier can facilitate the development of local diseases such as irritable bowel disease, inflammatory bowel disease or celiac disease, but also the development of systemic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, hepatitis, and lupus erythematosus, neurodegenerative or psychiatric conditions, or metabolic diseases such as diabetes or obesity. However, it must be emphasized that the causal links between a leaky gut barrier and the onset of certain diseases often remain unclear and require in-depth research. In light of recent research, it becomes crucial to prevent damage to the intestinal barrier, as well as to develop therapies for the barrier when it is damaged. This paper presents the current state of knowledge on the causes, health consequences and attempts to treat excessive permeability of the intestinal barrier.
Bridging MDE and AI: a systematic review of domain-specific languages and model-driven practices in AI software systems engineering
Authors: Rädler Simon , Berardinelli Luca , Winter Karolin , Rahimi Abbas , Rinderle-Ma Stefanie 
Published: September 2024

AbstractTechnical systems are becoming increasingly complex due to the increasing number of components, functions, and involvement of different disciplines. In this regard, model-driven engineering techniques and practices tame complexity during the development process by using models as primary artifacts. Modeling can be carried out through domain-specific languages whose implementation is supported by model-driven techniques. Today, the amount of data generated during product development is rapidly growing, leading to an increased need to leverage artificial intelligence algorithms. However, using these algorithms in practice can be difficult and time-consuming. Therefore, leveraging domain-specific languages and model-driven techniques for formulating AI algorithms or parts of them can reduce these complexities and be advantageous. This study aims to investigate the existing model-driven approaches relying on domain-specific languages in support of the engineering of AI software systems to sharpen future research further and define the current state of the art. We conducted a Systemic Literature Review (SLR), collecting papers from five major databases resulting in 1335 candidate studies, eventually retaining 18 primary studies. Each primary study will be evaluated and discussed with respect to the adoption of (1) MDE principles and practices and (2) the phases of AI development support aligned with the stages of the CRISP-DM methodology. The study’s findings show that language workbenches are of paramount importance in dealing with all aspects of modeling language development (metamodel, concrete syntax, and model transformation) and are leveraged to define domain-specific languages (DSL) explicitly addressing AI concerns. The most prominent AI-related concerns are training and modeling of the AI algorithm, while minor emphasis is given to the time-consuming preparation of the data sets. Early project phases that support interdisciplinary communication of requirements, such as the CRISP-DM Business Understanding phase, are rarely reflected. The study found that the use of MDE for AI is still in its early stages, and there is no single tool or method that is widely used. Additionally, current approaches tend to focus on specific stages of development rather than providing support for the entire development process. As a result, the study suggests several research directions to further improve the use of MDE for AI and to guide future research in this area.
Outcomes of five cases of retinoblastoma with optic nerve invasion on imaging
Authors: Onishi Tamae , Nishina Sachiko , Yokoi Tadashi , Yoshida Tomoyo , Hayashi Shion , Morikawa-Anzai Hazuki , Azuma Noriyuki , Kiyotani Chikako , Terashima Keita , Yoshioka Takako , Ogiwara Hideki , Fuji Hiroshi , Kitamura Masayuki , Tsutsumi Yoshiyuki 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To investigate the timing of enucleation, treatment course, and outcome for retinoblastoma (RB) with optic nerve (ON) invasion on imaging.

Study design
Retrospective clinical study.

Methods
Of the 160 patients with RB who presented to the National Center for Child Health and Development in Japan between 2005 and 2022, ON invasion on imaging at the initial presentation was seen in five patients. The clinical, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, and treatment courses were reviewed retrospectively.

Results
MRI showed ON invasion in all five patients (three with unilateral RB, 2 with bilateral RB); in two patients CT detected no invasion. Enucleation was performed in four patients, three of whom underwent neoadjuvant therapy and one had a positive ON resection margin following the enucleation as initial treatment. One patient did not undergo enucleation due to cerebrospinal fluid dissemination. All enucleated patients underwent adjuvant chemotherapy. Four patients underwent radiotherapy. During follow-up (mean, 89.4 months), four patients survived and one died.

Conclusion
MRI is recommended to evaluate ON invasion and determine the timing of enucleation for RB. The appropriate choice of neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy would be helpful to avoid radiotherapy for RB with ON invasion on imaging.
Management of preoperative hypertension and anxiety based on early monitoring of pulse rate before cataract surgery
Authors: Ono Takashi , Iwasaki Takuya , Tomari Rie , Sakisaka Toshihiro , Mori Yosai , Nejima Ryohei , Miyata Kazunori 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Few studies have addressed the clinical impact of fluctuation in pulse rate before cataract surgery. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of prior pulse monitoring and intervention to prevent blood pressure changes in patients undergoing cataract surgery under local anesthesia.

Study design
Retrospective study

Methods
Patients who underwent cataract surgery under local anesthesia were included. In the pulse rate (PR) group, intervention was performed on the basis of early monitoring of blood pressure and PR changes. In the conventional group, blood pressure was managed on the basis of blood pressure alone. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, intraoperative nicardipine use, and physician consultation time were retrospectively compared between the groups.

Results
The study included 684 eyes from 684 patients aged 73.5 ± 9.5 years (PR group: 297 eyes, conventional group: 387 eyes). No intergroup differences were found in systolic blood pressure or pulse and heart rates; however, diastolic blood pressure was significantly lower in the PR group than in the conventional group at both the beginning and the end of surgery (P <.001 and P = .0028, respectively). Intravenous nicardipine administration in the operating room was significantly less frequent in the PR group (P = .041), and physician consultation time after entering the operating room and at the beginning of surgery was significantly shorter in the PR group (both P <.001).

Conclusion
Early monitoring of PR with blood pressure and intervention were effective for preventing preoperative hypertension.
Trophic niche of a nonnative invader and environmental drivers of its increasing populations in the coastal Everglades
Authors: Kahmann Grace , Rehage Jennifer S. , Massie Jordan A. , Nelson James A. , Santos Rolando O. , Viadero Natasha M. , Ryan James W. , Boucek Ross E. , Crane Derek P. , Rezek Ryan J. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe Florida Everglades is a critically important, but highly threatened ecosystem that is becoming increasingly susceptible to the invasion of non-native species. This study investigated the ecological role of the invasive peacock eel (Macrognathus siamensis) within this ecosystem using 15 years of electrofishing data and stable isotope analysis. We investigated the population trends of peacock eels at the marsh-mangrove ecotone of the Shark River Estuary, the environmental factors contributing to their abundance, and the potential interactions they may have with native fish assemblages and coastal food webs. We used stable isotope analysis to provide insights into the basal resource contribution to peacock eels and hypervolume analysis to determine peacock eel trophic niche size and overlap with native species. Results of this study found that peacock eel abundance has rapidly increased, and their populations are strongly related to hydroclimatic regimes. Peacock eel abundance was positively associated with warmer water temperatures and greater marsh inundation periods. The trophic niche of peacock eels was significantly smaller in volume than that of native sunfishes (Lepomis spp.) indicating lower intraspecific resource use variability and suggesting a limited potential for inter-specific competition with these taxa. However, in recent years, the catch of peacock eels has outnumbered the catch of all native sunfishes combined. The feeding habits and pervasiveness of peacock eels in the coastal Everglades could lead to a decrease in abundance of benthic prey items targeted by peacock eels and alter food web dynamics in the system. Based on these data, peacock eel populations are predicted to continue to increase, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring of their potential impact on native fish assemblages and food webs.
Developing a city-wide, community-engaged cancer disparities research agenda
Authors: Leader Amy E. , Song Yawei , González Evelyn T. , Fortune Thierry , Graciani Nilsa , Zeigler-Johnson Charnita , Glanz Karen 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In response to high levels of cancer disparities in Philadelphia, PA, three NCI-designated clinical cancer centers formed Philadelphia Communities Conquering Cancer (PC3) to bring stakeholders together and establish infrastructure for future cancer reducing initiatives. The PC3 coalition aimed to develop a prioritized cancer disparities research agenda in order to align cancer center resources and research interests with the concerns of the community about cancer, and to ensure that initiatives were patient- and community-centered.

Methods
Agenda development activities culminated in a city-wide cancer disparities conference. The conference, attended by 55 diverse stakeholders, was the venue for small group discussion sessions about cancer concerns related to prevention, early detection, treatment, survivorship, and quality of life. Sessions were guided by a moderator guide and were audiorecorded, transcribed, and analyzed by the PC3 leadership team. Results were reviewed and consensus was achieved with the help of PC3’s Stakeholder Advisory Committee.

Results
Stakeholders identified four thematic areas as top priorities for cancer disparities research and action in Philadelphia: communication between patients, providers, and caregivers; education that reaches patients and community members with tailored and targeted information; navigation that assists people in finding and accessing the right cancer screening or treatment option for them; and representation that diversifies the workforce in clinics, cancer centers, and research offices.

Conclusion
A community-informed, prioritized research agenda provides a road map for the three cancer centers to collaborate on future initiatives that are important to patients and stakeholders, to ultimately reduce the burden of cancer for all Philadelphians.