bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer, macula, and ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer in people with drug‐resistant epilepsy
Authors: Chen Yujie , Xiong Weixi , Lu Lu , Wu Xintong , Cao Le , Chen Jiani , Xiao Yingfeng , Sander Josemir W. , Wu Bo , Zhou Dong 
Published: August 2024

AbstractObjectiveUsing Optical coherence tomography (OCT), we evaluated the association between peripapillary retinal nerve fiber, macular thickness, macular ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer, and drug resistance.MethodsIn this cross‐sectional study, we recruited people diagnosed with epilepsy and healthy controls. People with epilepsy were further stratified as drug‐resistant or non‐drug‐resistant based on their response to anti‐seizure medications. OCT measurements were conducted, and findings in right eye were analyzed.ResultsFifty‐one drug‐resistant participants, 37 non‐drug‐resistant, and 45 controls were enrolled. The average peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer, and macular thickness were thinner in the epilepsy groups than in controls. The drug‐resistant group had significantly lower average ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer thickness (p = 0.004) and a higher proportion of abnormal/borderline GC/IPL thickness (p = 5.40E‐04) than the non‐drug‐resistant group. Nevertheless, no significant differences were seen between the average thickness of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber and macular thickness. The temporal sectors of these three parameters were also significantly thinner in the drug‐resistant group than in the non‐drug‐resistant. In a multivariate regression model, drug resistance was an independent predictor of reduced ganglion cell‐inner plexiform thickness (Odds ratios OR = 10.25, 95% CI 2.82 to 37.28). Increased seizure frequency (r = −0.23, p = 0.039) and a higher number of anti‐seizure medications ever used (r = −0.27, p = 0.013) were negatively associated with ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer thickness.SignificanceIndividuals with drug‐resistant epilepsy had a consistent reduction in average ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer thickness and the temporal sector of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer and macular thickness. This suggests that ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer thickness could potentially serve as an indicator of the burden of drug resistance, as it correlated with reduced thickness in individuals having more frequent seizures and greater exposure to ASMs.Plain Language SummaryIn our study, we used a special tool called OCT to measure how thick the retina is in people with epilepsy and in healthy control. We found that the retina was consistently thinner in all areas for those with epilepsy compared to healthy control. Particularly, a specific layer called the ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer was a lot thinner in the group that didn't respond to medications, and this thinning was related to how often seizures occurred and how much medications were taken. Also, certain parts of the retina were thinner in the drug‐resistant group.
Clinical and genetic analysis of 23 Chinese children with epilepsy associated with KCNQ2 gene mutations
Authors: Yu Xixi , Che Fengyuan , Zhang Xin , Yang Li , Zhu Liping , Xu Na , Qiu Shiyan , Li Yufen 
Published: August 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo summarize the clinical features and genetic mutation characteristics of Chinese children with KCNQ2‐related epilepsy.MethodsA cohort of children with genetically caused epilepsy was evaluated at Linyi People's Hospital from January 2017 to December 2023. After next‐generation sequencing and pathogenicity analysis, we summarized the medical records and genetic testing data of the children who had KCNQ2 gene mutations.ResultsWe identified 23 KCNQ2 gene mutations. 73.9% (n = 17) of the mutation sites were located in S5–S6 segments and the C‐terminal region. In addition to the common phenotypes, 2 new phenotypes were identified: infantile convulsion with paroxysmal choreoathetosis (ICCA) and febrile seizure plus (FS+). Of all the cases with abnormal video‐electro‐encephalography, three cases with self‐limited familial infantile epilepsy (SeLNE) exhibited a small number of multifocal discharges. Of the patients who have taken a particular antiepileptic drug, the statistics on the number of patients who have responded to the drug are as follows: oxcarbazepine (8/9, 88.9%), levetiracetam (5/7, 71.4%), phenobarbital (9/16, 56.3%), and topiramate (2/5, 40.0%). However, the efficacy of phenobarbital varied widely in treating SeLNE and KCNQ2‐DEE. At the final follow‐up, 1 case with SeLNE had a transient developmental regression and 7 cases with KCNQ2‐DEE had mild to severe developmental backwardness.SignificanceAlthough clinically rare, we report 10 new KCNQ2 mutations and two new phenotypes: ICCA and FS+. This further expands genetic and phenotypic spectrum of KCNQ2‐related epilepsy. The gene mutation sites are mostly located in S5–S6 segments and the C‐terminal region, and the former is usually associated with KCNQ2‐DEE. Sodium channel blockers (including oxcarbazepine and topiramate) and levetiracetam should be prioritized over phenobarbital for KCNQ2‐DEE. Some cases with KCNQ2‐related epilepsy may have transient developmental regression during periods of frequent seizures. Early treatment and early seizure control may be beneficial for willing outcomes in children with KCNQ2‐DEE.Plain Language SummaryThis article reports 23 cases of children with KCNQ2‐related epilepsy, including 10 new mutation sites and 2 new phenotypes. It further expands the genetic and phenotypic spectrum of KCNQ2‐related epilepsy. In addition, the article summarizes the gene mutation characteristics and clinical manifestations of children with KCNQ2‐related epilepsy, with the expectation of providing a certain theoretical basis for the diagnosis and treatment of such patients.
Encouraging, empowering, and educating: Informal educators, caregivers, and children as partners in computational thinking activities
Authors: Campana Kathleen , Mills J. Elizabeth , Chun Jeeyeon , Ickes Jessica 
Published: August 2024

AbstractInformal learning environments, such as libraries and museums, are key areas for supporting computational thinking (CT) with young children and their families. Educators in these environments are working to offer CT‐related experiences and activities for families of young children, often incorporating aspects of sociocultural learning such as scaffolding and dialogic practices. Because the parent/caregiver is typically present with their young child in these environments, there is an opportunity to provide them with CT information and support so that they can then actively engage in and encourage their child's CT learning, thereby extending their child's capabilities in a zone of proximal development. Previous research by Ohland et al. offers an initial framework of parental roles in CT experiences that serves as a foundation for this study's analysis of interviews with 18 libraries and museums from across the United States. The goal was to understand informal educators' goals for caregiver participation in CT activities with young children and their strategies for enabling caregivers to embody these different roles. Findings reveal that educators want caregivers to play a variety of roles with their child(ren) in these CT experiences. Furthermore, educators are implementing a variety of methods that explicitly encourage interaction, collaboration, and more. The connections between these goals and methods begin to build a model of caregiver encouragement, empowerment, and education in CT experiences in informal learning environments.
Development of healthier gummy candy by substituting glucose syrup with various fruit juice concentrates
Authors: Pekdogan Goztok Serpil , Habibzadeh Khiabani Arezou , Toker Omer Said , Palabiyik Ibrahim , Konar Nevzat 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of various formulations of fruit juice concentrates (pomegranate, grape, and sour cherry) on the pH, water activity, density, color, texture, and microstructure characteristics of candies instead of glucose syrup. The experimental points of the study were examined by a D‐optimal mixture design to optimize the concentration of fruits used in the formulation and achieve excellent physicochemical characteristics. Fruit juice concentrates, either singly or in combination, were used as a complete substitute for glucose syrup in the formulation. Total fruit juice concentration used in the formulation was 54.07% and each of the fruit juice concentrations changed between 0 and 54.07% in the formulation. By combining these three fruit juices, 14 gummy candy samples were produced, depending on the Special cubic, cubic, and quadratic models that were used for the effects on the physicochemical properties (pH, water activity, density, L*, a*, b*, and chroma), and the texture profile analysis (TPA) (hardness, cohesiveness, springiness, and resilience) parameters according to independent variables. Results showed that pH, water activity, and density values of the gummy candy samples were found to be in the range of 2.22–3.08, 0.46–0.52, and 1.10–1.53 g/mL, respectively, and were significantly affected by different fruit juice concentrates (p < .05). The texture profile analysis showed that except for springiness, fruit juice concentrations significantly affected the texture profile (p < .05). The texture values, such as hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, gumminess, and resilience of the gummy candy samples, were determined as 146.1–938.8 N, 0.63–0.99, 0.75–1.19, 136.02–947.94 g, and 0.12–0.51, respectively. In addition, various fruit juice concentrates significantly affected the color parameters of gummy candies, and using pomegranate juice and sour cherry concentrates increased the +a* value of the gummy candies. Therefore, fruit juice‐based gummy candies can be developed as value‐added gummy candies by using fruit juice concentrates.
The prevalence of depression in women with pregnancy‐related pelvic girdle pain: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Halliday Bradley , Chatfield Sarah , Hosking Joanne , Freeman Jennifer 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackground and AimsPregnancy‐related pelvic girdle pain (PPGP) is estimated to affect between 20% and 70% of pregnant women with 10% experiencing it for more than 3 months postpartum. Women may also experience depression during this period. Understanding the prevalence of depression in women with PPGP is important to inform clinical management. This systematic review aimed to examine the prevalence of depression in women with PPGP in the antepartum and postpartum periods.MethodsA systematic review and meta‐analysis. Seven databases were searched from inception until May 24, 2023, combining keywords relating to pelvic girdle pain (PGP), depression, and pregnancy. Two investigators independently screened study titles and abstracts against the eligibility criteria, extracting data characteristics of all included studies. Included articles were assessed for risk of bias. Summary estimates of the prevalence of depression were calculated with a random effects meta‐analysis (stratified by antepartum and postpartum periods).ResultsEleven studies (3172 participants) were included with nine suitable for meta‐analysis. The overall summary estimate of prevalence of depression among women with PPGP was 24% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 15%–37%), with significant heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 97%, p < 0.01). Among individual studies, the estimates ranged from 18% to 48% in the antepartum PGP population and from 5% to 39% in the postpartum PGP population. The summary estimate in the antepartum group was 37% (95% CI = 19%–59%; prediction interval 8%–81%) and 15% (95% CI = 7%–30%; prediction interval 3%–56%) in the postpartum group, although time (antepartum vs. postpartum) did not have a statistically significant moderating effect (p = 0.06). Two thirds of the studies were undertaken with Scandinavian populations, limiting the generalizability of these findings.ConclusionSummary estimates for the prevalence of depression in women with PPGP are similar to previous studies investigating depression in the general peri‐natal population.
Hair follicle punch grafts in hard‐to‐heal wounds: A monocenter study and patient survey
Authors: Jansen Theresa M. , Janßen Sarah , Bölke Edwin , Homey Bernhard , Hoff Norman‐Philipp 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackground and AimsChronic wounds present a growing challenge in the aging population, resulting in an extended course of treatment and an increased influx of patients with recalcitrant wounds seeking admission to hospitals. Furthermore, the general trend in patient care is toward simple and inexpensive treatment methods, feasible in an outpatient setting with little material costs. This retrospective case study aims to elucidate the operative procedure and outcomes associated with hair follicle unit transplantation utilizing punch grafts from the scalp for the management of hard‐to‐heal wounds.MethodsA cohort of 28 patients, comprising 20 males and eight females, with a mean age of 72.61 years (range: 48−89) and an average wound area of 82.49 cm2, underwent dissection of punch grafts containing hair follicles (2−3 mm in diameter) from the scalp. Subsequently, these grafts were transplanted into the wound bed. The retrospective evaluation of ulcer healing encompassed photo documentation and clinical records, while patient satisfaction was assessed through structured questionnaires.ResultsIn 78.6% (22) of the cases, a favorable impact on wound healing was observed, characterized by epithelization, and in 57.1% (16) of the patients, complete wound closure was achieved. With the exception of one donor site, all other sites healed without complications. The patient survey indicated that the majority of individuals subjected to the procedure did not perceive it as painful or time‐consuming. Notably, 81% (17) of individuals expressed a willingness to undergo the treatment again. Even in challenging wound conditions, such as pyoderma gangrenosum, our method demonstrated a positive effect on wound healing.ConclusionWithin our cohort, the utilization of hair follicle units in the management of hard‐to‐heal wounds resulted in either complete or partial wound closure for the majority of patients, accompanied by minimal morbidity, reduced operation time, and a low incidence of complications and associated costs.
Neuroscience of cancer: Research progress and emerging of the field
Authors: AbuQeis Issam , Zou Yu , Ba Ying‐Chun , Teeti Abeer A. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractCancer cells immediately expand and penetrate adjoining tissues, as opposed to metastasis, that is the spread of cancer cells through the circulatory or lymphatic systems to more distant places via the invasion process. We found that a lack of studies discussed tumor development with the nervous system, by the aspects of cancer‐tissue invasion (biological) and chemical modulation of growth that cascades by releasing neural‐related factors from the nerve endings via chemical substances known as neurotransmitters. In this review, we aimed to carefully demonstrate and describe the cancer invasion and interaction with the nervous system, as well as reveal the research progress and the emerging neuroscience of cancer. An initial set of 160 references underwent systematic review and summarization. Through a meticulous screening process, these data were refined, ultimately leading to the inclusion of 98 studies that adhered to predetermined criteria. The outcomes show that one formidable challenge in the realm of cancer lies in its intrinsic heterogeneity and remarkable capacity for rapid adaptation. Despite advancements in genomics and precision medicine, there is still a need to identify new molecular targets. Considering cancer within its molecular and cellular environment, including neural components, is crucial for addressing this challenge. In conclusion, this review provides good referential data for direct, indirect, biological, and chemical interaction for nerve tissue–tumor interaction, suggesting the establishment of new therapy techniques and mechanisms by controlling and modifying neuron networks that supply signals to tumors.
Improving the clinical meaning of surrogate endpoints: An empirical assessment of clinical progression in phase III oncology trials
Authors: Sherry Alexander D. , Lin Timothy A. , McCaw Zachary R. , Beck Esther J. , Kouzy Ramez , Abi Jaoude Joseph , Passy Adina H. , Miller Avital M. , Kupferman Gabrielle S. , Fuller Clifton David , Thomas Charles R. , Koay Eugene J. , Tang Chad , Msaouel Pavlos , Ludmir Ethan B. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractDisease progression in clinical trials is commonly defined by radiologic measures. However, clinical progression may be more meaningful to patients, may occur even when radiologic criteria for progression are not met, and often requires a change in therapy in clinical practice. The objective of this study was to determine the utilization of clinical progression criteria within progression‐based trial endpoints among phase III trials testing systemic therapies for metastatic solid tumors. The primary manuscripts and protocols of phase III trials were reviewed for whether clinical events, such as refractory pain, tumor bleeding, or neurologic compromise, could constitute a progression event. Univariable logistic regression computed odds ratios (OR) and 95% CI for associations between trial‐level covariates and clinical progression. A total of 216 trials enrolling 148,190 patients were included, with publication dates from 2006 through 2020. A major change in clinical status was included in the progression criteria of 13% of trials (n = 27), most commonly as a secondary endpoint (n = 22). Only 59% of trials (n = 16) reported distinct clinical progression outcomes that constituted the composite surrogate endpoint. Compared with other disease sites, genitourinary trials were more likely to include clinical progression definitions (16/33 [48%] vs. 11/183 [6%]; OR, 14.72; 95% CI, 5.99 to 37.84; p < .0001). While major tumor‐related clinical events were seldom considered as disease progression events, increased attention to clinical progression may improve the meaningfulness and clinical applicability of surrogate endpoints for patients with metastatic solid tumors.
Self‐collected versus clinician‐collected anal swabs for anal cancer screening: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dyer Clare E. F. , Jin Fengyi , Hillman Richard J. , Nyitray Alan G. , Roberts Jennifer M. , Law Carmella , Grulich Andrew E. , Poynten I. Mary 
Published: August 2024

AbstractAnal squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC) incidence is increasing globally. International consensus guidelines published in 2024 include HPV and/or cytology testing of anal swabs in those at greatest risk of ASCC. Self‐collected anal swabs may be important for increasing screening uptake, but evidence is needed as to their equivalence to clinician‐collected swabs. We searched Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL databases for publications to 13 June 2023. Studies were included if reporting data on HPV testing, cytology testing, or acceptability, for both self‐ and clinician‐collected anal swabs. Risk of bias was assessed using the QUADAS‐2 assessment tool. The primary outcome was HPV and cytology sampling adequacy. Secondary outcomes were HPV and cytology results, and acceptability of collection methods. Thirteen papers describing 10 studies were eligible. Sample adequacy was comparable between self‐ and clinician‐collected swabs for HPV testing (meta‐adequacy ratio: 1.01 [95% CI 0.97–1.05]) but slightly lower for cytology by self‐collection (meta‐adequacy ratio: 0.91 [95% CI 0.88–0.95]). There was no significant difference in prevalence (meta‐prevalence ratio: 0.83 (95% CI 0.65–1.07) for any HR‐HPV, 0.98 (95% CI 0.84–1.14) for any HPV, and 0.68 (95% CI 0.33–1.37) for HPV16), or any cytological abnormality (meta‐prevalence ratio 1.01 [95% CI 0.86–1.18]). Only three papers reported acceptability results. Findings indicate self‐collection gives equivalent sample adequacy for HPV testing and ~ 10% inferior adequacy for cytological testing. Meta‐prevalence was similar for HPV and cytology, but confidence intervals were wide. Larger studies are required to definitively assess use of self‐collected swabs in anal cancer screening programs, including acceptability.
The impact of new millennium crises on the power of Islamic banks in deposit markets
Authors: Alhalboni Maryam , Baldwin Kenneth 
Published: August 2024

AbstractWe investigate the impact of three crises on the power of Islamic banks in deposit markets: the Global Financial Crisis, 2007–2009 (GFC), the Arab Spring political crisis, 2011–2013, and the COVID‐19 health crisis, 2020–2022. Applying difference‐in‐difference (DID) and GMM techniques to panel data for 2004–2022, we find that the power of Islamic banks increased in countries most affected by the GFC, but only for oil‐exporters, as elevated oil prices inflated deposited liquidity. In contrast to the GFC, the market power of countries highly affected by the Arab Spring decreased as depositors withdrewen masse. For these countries, oil export status was irrelevant, and whilst government integrity is significant, it accounts for a small amount of heterogeneity in the country‐level cross‐section due to widely held public attitudes towards institutions during the crisis. For COVID‐19, the market power of Islamic banks initially increased at the outset of the pandemic due to a surge in precautionary deposits, but later decreased due to economic activity constraints. The stringency of lockdowns had little effect on market power in countries that suffered the highest COVID‐19 death rates. These and other findings specific to each crisis provide a rich array of private and public policy implications relevant to crises of different types for bank liquidity crisis management, financial conduct policies, and state‐backed lending stimulus packages.
Multiple‐dose pharmacokinetics of cenerimod and the effect of charcoal on its elimination
Authors: Mueller Markus S. , Juif Pierre‐Eric , Charfi Hakim , Dingemanse Jasper 
Published: August 2024

AbstractCenerimod is a sphingosine‐1‐phosphate receptor 1 modulator that reduces tissue availability of circulating lymphocytes. The compound is in Phase 3 development for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus. Its pharmacokinetic properties are characterized by slow absorption and multiphasic elimination with a long terminal half‐life (t½), potentially caused by enterohepatic circulation (EHC). In this trial in healthy participants, oral cenerimod 0.5 and 4 mg once daily was administered for 50 days, followed by oral administration of activated charcoal (ie, 50 mg every 12 h for 11 days, starting 24 h after the last cenerimod dose), to investigate the potential EHC of cenerimod and assess whether elimination of cenerimod can be accelerated. The multiple‐dose pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety, and tolerability of cenerimod were also evaluated. For both doses, peak plasma concentrations were reached 6 and 7 h after dosing. Cenerimod accumulated approximately eightfold and (near) steady‐state conditions were reached after 50 doses, resembling clinically meaningful exposure to cenerimod. The t½ following 0.5 and 4 mg of cenerimod was 767 and 799 h (ie, 32 and 33 days) and 720 and 780 h (ie, 30 and 33 days) with or without administration of charcoal, respectively, indicating no statistically significant difference. Therefore, charcoal did not accelerate cenerimod elimination suggesting that there is no EHC of cenerimod. A reversible, dose‐dependent decrease in total lymphocyte count was observed. No safety concerns were identified; administration of charcoal was well tolerated.