bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical impact of multiple pectus bars on surgical outcomes following pectus excavatum repair
Authors: Oka Naoyuki , Masai Kyohei , Okubo Yu , Kaseda Kaoru , Hishida Tomoyuki , Asakura Keisuke 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The Nuss procedure, a minimally invasive surgery for pectus excavatum, has undergone various improvements. However, the impact of using multiple bars on thoracic shape changes and surgical outcomes remains unclear.

METHODS
We retrospectively evaluated patients who underwent the Nuss procedure for pectus excavatum between August 2014 and September 2021. We divided the patients into two groups based on the number of bars placed and identified differences in surgical outcomes and morphological characteristics.

RESULTS
A total of 225 patients were evaluated, of whom 132 were classified into the ≤2 bar group (using 1 or 2 bars) and 93 into the ≥3 bar group (using 3 or more bars). There was no difference in the preoperative Haller index (median [interquartile range], 4.59 [3.67–6.16] vs 4.67 [4.12–6.14], p = 0.227), and asymmetric excavatum was more frequently observed in the ≥3 bar group (81% vs 51%, p &lt; 0.001). The preoperative sternal torsion angle was larger in the ≥3 bar group, but no difference was found between the two groups postoperatively. The incidence of postoperative complications (≥grade 3) was comparable between groups (10% vs 17%, p = 0.105); however, postoperative pleurisy was more frequently observed in the ≥3 bar group (12% vs 4%, p = 0.021). In univariable and multivariable analyses, ≥3 bar placement was the only risk factor for postoperative pleurisy.

CONCLUSIONS
The placement of multiple bars (≥3 bars) is useful for the correction of asymmetric pectus excavatum, but attention should be paid to the potential risk of postoperative pleurisy.
Nasal Mucosal Cytokines as Potential Biomarkers for Assessing Disease Severity and Class of Pathogen in Children With Community-Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Sayegh Rouba , Tang Li , Yun Ki Wook , Xu Zhaohui , Marzec Sarah A , El-Assal Osama , Leber Amy L , Everhart Kathy , Mertz Sara , Desai Ankita , Cohen Daniel M , Alter Sherman J , Ambroggio Lilliam , Florin Todd A , Keaton Meghan , Shah Samir S , Ruddy Richard M , Wallihan Rebecca , Mejias Asuncion , Ramilo Octavio 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children. Assessing disease severity and etiology remains challenging in the clinical setting. The objective of this study was to identify mucosal biomarkers that could potentially assist with patient classification.

Methods
We analyzed mucosal concentrations of cytokines in nasopharyngeal samples obtained from a convenience sample of 182 children with CAP and 26 matched healthy controls. Pathogens were identified by cultures and molecular assays. Severe disease was defined by hospital stay ≥3 days and/or pediatric intensive care unit admission. Data were analyzed according to identified pathogens and disease severity.

Results
Children with CAP and detected atypical bacteria had significantly higher concentrations of monocyte chemotactic protein 2 (MCP-2), interferon gamma (IFN-γ), and CXCL10, among others, compared with those with typical bacteria. Children with influenza virus had significantly higher concentrations of MCP-2, CXCL10, CXCL11, CX3CL1, and IFN-γ than those with typical bacteria. Additionally, children with severe CAP had significantly higher concentrations of CCL23 than children with mild/moderate disease, irrespective of the pathogen(s) identified.

Conclusions
We identified differences in mucosal concentrations of inflammatory and antiviral cytokines in children with CAP according to disease severity and detected pathogens. Mucosal biomarkers represent a promising approach to help assess disease severity and etiology.
Demographic history of Platypus quercivorus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a beetle causing mass mortality of oak trees, in eastern Japan
Authors: Kobayashi Takuya , Ueda Akira , Taki Hisatomo , Aizawa Mineaki , Ito Masaaki , Nakamura Katsunori , Isono Masahiro , Wada Hisayuki , Uchida Yoko , Tokuda Sawako , Shoda-Kagaya Etsuko , Ozaki Kenichi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
In recent years, Japanese oak wilt causing mass mortality of oak trees has exhibited a significant geographical expansion. Understanding the formation history of current local populations of Platypus quercivorus Murayama, a vector of Japanese oak wilt, is important foundational knowledge for effectively preventing forest damage. In this study, we used genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism data to infer the population genetic structure and historical demography of P. quercivorus populations in eastern Japan, where Japanese oak wilt is rapidly expanding. We found at least 3 distinct genetic groups, each of which caused Japanese oak wilt in different areas. The supported scenario suggests that 1 of 2 genetic groups in the northeast first diverged from the ancestral population, then the other group diverged from the southwestern population, followed by gene flow between the 2 groups. Recent admixtures of the 2 northeastern groups were identified at certain sites. The geographic genetic structure of the populations suggested that each genetic group experienced recent range expansion. Although genetically independent populations had caused oak tree mass mortality in their original distribution range, our results support the hypothesis that the recent geographic expansion of Japanese oak wilt outbreaks is attributed to the range expansion of these P. quercivorus groups.
Intracellular methylglyoxal accumulation in classically activated mouse macrophages is mediated by HIF-1α
Authors: Prantner Daniel , Vogel Stefanie N 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Approximately one million cases of sepsis in the United States occur annually. The early phase of sepsis features dramatic changes in host metabolism and inflammation. While examining the effects of metabolic pathways on inflammation, we discovered that the highly reactive glycolytic metabolite, methylglyoxal (MG), accumulates intracellularly during classical activation of macrophages. Herein, we explored the role of glycolysis and the master regulator of glycolysis, Hypoxia-Inducing Factor-1α (HIF-1α), in inflammation and MG accumulation in mouse and human macrophages. To determine how HIF-1α regulates the inflammatory response of macrophages, we correlated HIF-1α stabilization with proinflammatory gene expression and MG-adduct accumulation in WT vs HIF1a-deficient macrophages treated with LPS or LPS + IFN-γ. A nearly complete loss of HIF-1α protein expression in response to the hypoxia mimetic, cobalt chloride, confirmed the phenotype of the HIF1a-deficient macrophages. Moreover, absence of HIF-1α was also associated with decreased MG accumulation. Increasing the glucose concentration in cultured macrophages was sufficient to cause accumulation of endogenous MG-adducts which correlated with increased Tnf and Il1b expression during classical activation. The use of the MG antagonist, aminoguanidine, led to a significant decrease in Tnf and Il1b expression in both mouse macrophages and the THP-1 human macrophage cell line. Although off-target effects cannot be ruled out, these results are consistent with the possibility that MG regulates cytokine expression in classically activated macrophages. Collectively, this work suggests that HIF-1α stabilization is upstream of MG accumulation and that targeting the activity of HIF-1α in macrophages may be therapeutic during sepsis by limiting endogenous MG accumulation.
FemTech: empowering reproductive rights or FEM-TRAP for surveillance?
Authors: Hofmann Dylan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The emergence of FemTech technologies promises to revolutionize women’s health and reproductive rights but conceals an insidious trap of surveillance and control in the hands of private and state actors. This article examines the extent to which FemTech technologies, under the guise of empowerment, enable private actors to play a leading role in managing reproductive rights, replacing largely inactive States in this crucial function. The analysis shows how private FemTech companies are becoming critical players in implementing and defending these rights, often in response to the inaction or inadequacies of States. The article approaches the FemTech phenomenon from several angles, including the promises of empowerment, concerns about surveillance and control, and the ambivalent roles of private actors as implementers and defenders of reproductive rights. This structure makes it possible to offer a critical analysis of the legal, societal, and ethical implications of FemTech, highlighting the tensions between the promises of empowerment and the risks of surveillance and control.
Tussles with mussels: mytiloidean phylogeny revisited (Bivalvia: Pteriomorphia)
Authors: Tan Koh Siang , Tan Samuel Hui Ming 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT
Our understanding of mytiloid phylogenetic relationships at the suprageneric level is still fragmentary despite previous attempts to make sense of their diverse but nevertheless characteristic body plan. The increasing availability of DNA barcode data for a wide range of mytilid taxa however now offers an unprecedented opportunity to examine their relatedness across the group. Here, we analysed publicly accessible sequences together with data from our own recent work on tropical shallow water marine, estuarine and freshwater species to construct molecular phylogenies involving key genera. Based on the tree topologies obtained from single- and multiple-gene analyses, a revised classification of the extant Mytiloidea is proposed, comprising two families Modiolidae and Mytilidae. This dichotomy is strongly supported in most trees generated. The Modiolidae encompasses mostly smooth-shelled taxa including Modiolinae, Bathymodiolinae, Limnoperninae and Xenostrobinae, together with Leiosolenus, Botula, Ciboticola, Lioberus, Jolya and Modiolula. Interestingly, the excavating Leiosolenus and freshwater Limnoperninae formed a group that is sister to the rest of the modiolid taxa. In contrast, the Mytilidae is a more varied group consisting of a wider range of taxa, amongst which Lithophaga and Dacrydium formed a sister clade to two well-supported clades, associated with the following genera: (1) Austromytilus, Brachidontes, Geukensia, Ischadium, Mytilaster, Mytilisepta, Perumytilus and Semimytilus; and (2) Arcuatula, Byssogerdius, Crenella, Gregariella, Musculus, Mytella, Mytilus, Parabrachidontes, Septifer and Trichomya. The first clade comprised exclusively of ribbed forms, whereas the second included both smooth and ribbed forms. Amygdalum, Aulacomya, Dacrydium, Lithophaga and Urumella were amongst several genera with unstable or uncertain affinities. In a cytochrome c oxidase subunit I tree, Amygdalum and Aulacomya formed a sister clade to the Modiolidae and Mytilidae. Shell morphology and anatomy are discussed in the light of these findings.
Genome wide clustering on integrated chromatin states and Micro-C contacts reveals chromatin interaction signatures
Authors: Sexton Corinne E , Victor Paul Sylvia , Barth Dylan , Han Mira V 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
We can now analyze 3D physical interactions of chromatin regions with chromatin conformation capture technologies, in addition to the 1D chromatin state annotations, but methods to integrate this information are lacking. We propose a method to integrate the chromatin state of interacting regions into a vector representation through the contact-weighted sum of chromatin states. Unsupervised clustering on integrated chromatin states and Micro-C contacts reveals common patterns of chromatin interaction signatures. This provides an integrated view of the complex dynamics of concurrent change occurring in chromatin state and in chromatin interaction, adding another layer of annotation beyond chromatin state or Hi-C contact separately.
Enhancing clinical decision-making: An externally validated machine learning model for predicting isocitrate dehydrogenase mutation in gliomas using radiomics from presurgical magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Lost Jan , Ashraf Nader , Jekel Leon , von Reppert Marc , Tillmanns Niklas , Willms Klara , Merkaj Sara , Petersen Gabriel Cassinelli , Avesta Arman , Ramakrishnan Divya , Omuro Antonio , Nabavizadeh Ali , Bakas Spyridon , Bousabarah Khaled , Lin MingDe , Aneja Sanjay , Sabel Michael , Aboian Mariam 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Glioma, the most prevalent primary brain tumor, poses challenges in prognosis, particularly in the high-grade subclass, despite advanced treatments. The recent shift in tumor classification underscores the crucial role of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation status in the clinical care of glioma patients. However, conventional methods for determining IDH status, including biopsy, have limitations. Exploring the use of machine learning (ML) on magnetic resonance imaging to predict IDH mutation status shows promise but encounters challenges in generalizability and translation into clinical practice because most studies either use single institution or homogeneous datasets for model training and validation. Our study aims to bridge this gap by using multi-institution data for model validation.

Methods
This retrospective study utilizes data from large, annotated datasets for internal (377 cases from Yale New Haven Hospitals) and external validation (207 cases from facilities outside Yale New Haven Health). The 6-step research process includes image acquisition, semi-automated tumor segmentation, feature extraction, model building with feature selection, internal validation, and external validation. An extreme gradient boosting ML model predicted the IDH mutation status, confirmed by immunohistochemistry.

Results
The ML model demonstrated high performance, with an Area under the Curve (AUC), Accuracy, Sensitivity, and Specificity in internal validation of 0.862, 0.865, 0.885, and 0.713, and external validation of 0.835, 0.851, 0.850, and 0.847.

Conclusions
The ML model, built on a heterogeneous dataset, provided robust results in external validation for the prediction task, emphasizing its potential clinical utility. Future research should explore expanding its applicability and validation in diverse global healthcare settings.
Distinction of pseudoprogression from true progression in glioblastomas using machine learning based on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging and O6-methylguanine-methyltransferase promoter methylation status
Authors: Yadav Virendra Kumar , Mohan Suyash , Agarwal Sumeet , de Godoy Laiz Laura , Rajan Archith , Nasrallah MacLean P , Bagley Stephen J , Brem Steven , Loevner Laurie A , Poptani Harish , Singh Anup , Chawla Sanjeev 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
It is imperative to differentiate true progression (TP) from pseudoprogression (PsP) in glioblastomas (GBMs). We sought to investigate the potential of physiologically sensitive quantitative parameters derived from diffusion and perfusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and molecular signature combined with machine learning in distinguishing TP from PsP in GBMs in the present study.

Methods
GBM patients (n = 93) exhibiting contrast-enhancing lesions within 6 months after completion of standard treatment underwent 3T MRI. Final data analyses were performed on 75 patients as O6-methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase (MGMT) status was available only from these patients. Subsequently, patients were classified as TP (n = 55) or PsP (n = 20) based on histological features or mRANO criteria. Quantitative parameters were computed from contrast-enhancing regions of neoplasms. PsP datasets were artificially augmented to achieve balanced class distribution in 2 groups (TP and PsP). A random forest algorithm was applied to select the optimized features. The data were randomly split into training and testing subsets in an 8:2 ratio. To develop a robust prediction model in distinguishing TP from PsP, several machine-learning classifiers were employed. The cross-validation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed to determine the diagnostic performance.

Results
The quadratic support vector machine was found to be the best classifier in distinguishing TP from PsP with a training accuracy of 91%, cross-validation accuracy of 86%, and testing accuracy of 85%. Additionally, ROC analysis revealed an accuracy of 85%, sensitivity of 70%, and specificity of 100%.

Conclusions
Machine learning using quantitative multiparametric MRI may be a promising approach to distinguishing TP from PsP in GBMs.
Is early-onset colorectal cancer an evolving pandemic? Real-world data from a tertiary cancer center
Authors: Angelakas Angelos , Christodoulou Thekla , Kamposioras Konstantinos , Barriuso Jorge , Braun Michael , Hasan Jurjees , Marti Kalena , Misra Vivek , Mullamitha Saifee , Saunders Mark , Cook Natalie 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Early onset Colorectal Cancer (EOCRC), defined as those diagnosed under the age of 50, has been increasing rapidly since 1970. UK data on EOCRC are currently limited and better understanding of the condition is needed.

Materials and Methods
A single-center retrospective study of patients with EOCRC treated over 9 years (2013-2021) at a large UK cancer center was performed. Clinicopathological features, risk factors, molecular drivers, treatment, and survival were analyzed.

Results
In total, 203 patients were included. A significant increase in cases was reported from 2018-2019 (n = 33) to 2020-2021 (n = 118). Sporadic EOCRC accounted for 70% of cases and left-sided tumors represented 70.9% (n = 144). Median duration of symptoms was 3 months, while 52.7% of the patients had de-novo metastatic disease. Progression-free survival after first-line chemotherapy was 6 months (95% CI, 4.85-7.15) and median overall survival (OS) was 38 months (95% CI, 32.86-43.14). In the advanced setting, left-sided primary tumors were associated with a median OS benefit of 14 months over right-sided primaries (28 vs 14 months, P = .009). Finally, primary tumor resection was associated with median OS benefit of 21 months compared with in situ tumors (38 vs 17 months, P &lt; .001).

Conclusions
The incidence of EOCRC is increasing, and survival outcomes remain modest. Raising public awareness and lowering the age for colorectal cancer screening are directions that could improve EOCRC clinical outcomes. There is also a need for large prospective studies to improve the understanding of the nature of EOCRC and the best therapeutic approaches.
Calcium-dependent protein kinases 5 and 13 enhance salt tolerance in rice by directly activating OsMPK3/6 kinases
Authors: Su Shiqi , Jiang Yimin , Zhu Xiang , Yu Shibo , Wang Fuxiang , Xue Li , Cui Haitao 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs/MPKs) are pivotal regulators in many stress-signaling pathways in plants. The dual phosphorylation of the TXY motif by MAP kinase kinases (MKKs) is essential for activating MAPKs. Here, we reveal a mechanism for MAPK activation that bypasses the need for MKKs. We identified rice (Oryza sativa) calcium-dependent protein kinase 5 (OsCPK5) and OsCPK13 as positive regulators in salt stress tolerance. These kinases are essential for the full activation of OsMPK3 and OsMPK6 in response to elevated sodium levels, with both OsMPK3 and OsMPK6 also acting as positive regulators in rice salt tolerance. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that OsCPK5/13 directly interact with and activate OsMPK3/6 by phosphorylating the TXY motif in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, we have discovered that OsCPK5/13 relocate from the cell membrane to the nucleus in response to salt stress. This process relies on their N-terminal myristoylation and a calcium-dependent phosphorylation event within the N-terminus. Our results elucidate a MAPK activation pathway in rice that is independent of traditional MKK-mediated phosphorylation, highlighting the crucial roles of OsCPK5 and OsCPK13 in directly phosphorylating and activating OsMPK3/6, which are important for rice tolerance to salt stress.
Management of blood loss in second-trimester abortion
Authors: Kaur Simranvir , Markwei Metabel Tori , Shaw Kate A. 
Published: October 2024

Purpose of review
While major complications in second-trimester abortion are rare, blood loss and hemorrhage are among the most common and have the potential for high morbidity. Here, we review the current literature on risk factors, prevention, and treatment of blood loss in second-trimester abortion.

Recent findings
A comprehensive approach to hemorrhage during second-trimester abortions is essential. Understanding hemorrhage risk factors, prevention strategies, and treatment options makes second-trimester abortion safer. Some pharmacologic methods may both prevent and treat excessive blood loss. Mechanical methods are primarily used for treatment. Key risk factors include prior uterine scars, gestational duration, insufficient cervical preparation, high BMI, procedural inexperience, fetal demise, and halogenated anesthetics. Developing evidence-based protocols for and further research into hemorrhage related complications are crucial for improving safety in second-trimester abortion care.

Summary
Prevention of hemorrhage improves outcomes. However data are limited. For treatment, this includes using pharmacological interventions and mechanical methods. Identifying high-risk patients and implementing preprocedural optimization are proactive measures that aid in decreasing the occurrence and severity of blood loss and hemorrhage.
Patient navigation in reproductive healthcare
Authors: Schechter Melissa , Espey Eve , Krashin Jamie W. 
Published: October 2024

Purpose of review
This review summarizes evidence about barriers to abortion care pre-Dobbs and post-Dobbs, inequities in abortion access, and approaches to improving access to abortion care with use of patient navigators.

Recent findings
The Dobbs decision and resulting state-level restrictions exacerbated economic, knowledge, and logistic barriers to abortion care. Abortion funds and emotional support are two main resources to help address these barriers; however, only with coordination can patients and clinics fully benefit from the resources. Patient navigation provides that coordination. Evidence shows it improves reproductive outcomes, is acceptable to patients and providers, and engages community health workers and community-based organizations.

Summary
Increasing legal restrictions and barriers to abortion care have motivated advocates to identify effective interventions to facilitate patient-centered and culturally competent care. Navigators have improved postpartum care by increasing attendance, education and helping coordinate overall care. They have improved referrals and access to abortion care in statewide programs.