bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Construction of a CT Radiomics Model for Predicting Her2 Expression in Bladder Cancer Based on Random Forest Algorithm
Authors: Zhang GuoNeng , Chen Zeyu , Xia Wei , Wang Yang , Ni Zhihang , Xue Boxin , Zhao Wenlu , Liu Xiaolong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
This study aimed to develop and evaluate a predictive model for Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2) expression levels in bladder cancer patients using clinical data and computed tomography (CT) radiomic features across various imaging phases.
Methods
The investigation involved: (1) compiling clinical data from bladder cancer patients; (2) performing HER2 immunohistochemistry (IHC) assessments post-surgery using the Hercep Test scoring system; (3) delineating tumor regions on CT images to extract radiomic features; (4) utilizing T-tests and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression to identify the most predictive radiomic features of HER2 status. Decision trees and random forest algorithms were then employed to construct radiomic models. Each model's predictive accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) were evaluated through cross-validation, identifying the model with the highest AUC as the optimal radiomic predictor.
Results
The study included 84 bladder cancer patients, with 53 classified as HER2-negative and 31 as HER2-positive via IHC. Radiomic features that correlated with HER2 status were identified, with three, eight, and two features selected from non-contrast, arterial, and venous phase CTs, respectively. Models based solely on arterial phase features exhibited modest predictive capacity (AUC = 0.44), which improved slightly with the inclusion of clinical data (AUC = 0.48). However, a model integrating features from all three CT phases (totaling 13 features) significantly enhanced performance, achieving an AUC of 0.78, which further improved to 0.83 when combined with clinical variables.
Conclusion
CT-based radiomics is a viable method for predicting HER2 expression in bladder cancer. The comprehensive model, incorporating features from non-contrast, arterial, and venous CT phases alongside clinical data, demonstrated superior predictive efficacy.
Three 3d graphics engineering technologies for fallow deer antlers characterization in ecology and management approaches
Authors: Montalvo-Gil Juan Manuel , Azorit-Casas Concepción , García-Molina Diego Francisco , Valderrama-Zafra José Manuel , Rubio-Paramio Miguel Ángel 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Numerous studies focus on creating 3D-models of biological elements for geometric evaluation using CAD tools. A crucial aspect is to obtain accurate geometrical data that is easy to obtain and cost-effective for analysis. The main objective is to evaluate three methods that characterise the fallow deer antler into a 3D-model of adequate accuracy, which is used as input data in biological analyses estimating hunting quality, asymmetry and volume. Three technologies are evaluated: structured light scanning, multi-image photogrammetry (SfM) and spatial photogrammetric restitution using two photographs in a CAD system. The geometric accuracy of the 3D-models obtained and the deviation between relevant points of the antler structure, in the main beam, in the main tines and palm, are estimated. Subsequently, the suitability of each 3D-model is studied according to the type of biological application for which it is intended. Based on the results, solid and axial 3D-models, the applicability of the three techniques for the study of biological parameters such as hunting quality, asymmetry and volume is discussed. It concludes on the most appropriate procedure to define the digital characterisation of the antler, depending on the type of biological study to be carried out in order to obtain accurate results. Characterising a geometrically complex structure such as the fallow deer antler in a 3D-model quickly and accurately can help to quantify various biomarkers in populations of specimens, making it possible to infer internal and external influencing factors.
Identification and validation of a metabolic-related gene risk model predicting the prognosis of Lung, Colon, and Breast cancers
Authors: Khan Jiyauddin , Bareja Chanchal , Dwivedi Kountay , Mathur Ankit , Kumar Naveen , Saluja Daman 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Metabolic reprogramming, vital for cancer cells to adapt to the altered microenvironment, remains a topic requiring further investigation for different tumor types. Our study aims to elucidate shared metabolic reprogramming across breast (BRC), colorectal (CRC), and lung (LUC) cancers. Leveraging gene expression data from the Gene Expression Omnibus and various bioinformatics tools like MSigDB, WebGestalt, String, and Cytoscape, we identified key/hub metabolism-related genes (MRGs) and their interactions. The functional characteristics including survival parameters and expression of the key MRGs were analyzed and validated through Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis 2 and qRT-PCR. In addition, we employed machine learning algorithms such as k-nearest neighbours (KNN), support vector regressor (SVR), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) to assess MRGs' effectiveness in predicting overall patient survival. Among 11,384 DEGs analyzed, 540 overlapped across BRC, CRC, and LUC, with 46 MRGs and 20 key/hub MRGs involved in all studied cancer types. Of these, 11 key MRGs were prognostically significant. qRT-PCR validation of key MRGs in specific cancer cell lines confirmed their expression profiles, with some showing cell-type-specific patterns. SVR exhibited remarkable accuracy in predicting overall survival, emphasizing its clinical utility. Our integrated approach combining bioinformatics analyses and experimental validations underscores the potential of MRGs as biomarkers for metabolic therapies, with machine learning models enhancing predictive capabilities for patient outcomes.
Evaluation of menstrual blood loss (MBL) by self-perception and pictorial methods and correlation to uterine myometrial pathology
Authors: Russo Consuelo , Palumbo Mario , Reppuccia Sabrina , Iorio Giuseppe Gabriele , Nocita Elvira , Monaco Giulia , Iacobini Federica , Soreca Giorgia , Exacoustos Caterina 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Evaluating menstrual blood loss (MBL) in primary healthcare is challenging. Our study aimed to assess MBL using two methods: self-perception and pictograms (Pictorial Blood Assessment Chart -PBAC- and Menstrual Pictogram -MP-) in women undergoing transvaginal ultrasound (TVS).
Methods: We enrolled 221 premenopausal women with spontaneous menstruation, no hormonal therapy, and no ongoing pregnancy. They were divided into four age groups (12-20, 21-30, 31-40, 41-55 years). Women self-reported normal (NMB) or heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) and filled out PBAC and MP. A PBAC score ≥150 and MP score ≥80 ml indicated HMB. TVS was conducted on all patients, recording any pelvic pathologies. We compared self-perception with pictograms across the cohort, age groups, and ultrasound findings.
Results: Of the cohort, 50.2% reported normal periods and 49.8% heavy periods. No significant differences were found between self-perception and pictograms in identifying NMB and HMB across all groups. However, significant differences were observed between PBAC and MP scores for NMB (56.1% vs 41.2%, p=0.001) and HMB (43.9% vs 58.8%, p=0.001), particularly in the 31-40 age group. Significant differences in PBAC and MP scores were noted between age groups 12-20 and 41-55, and 31-40 and 41-55. No significant differences were found between self-perception and pictograms regarding ultrasound findings like adenomyosis, fibroids, endometrial pathology, and uterine congenital malformations.
Conclusion: Self-perception could be a reliable method for describing MBL across all age groups and ultrasound findings. Given the complexity and potential errors in using pictograms, clinicians should consider relying on self-perception for assessing menstrual cycle quantity.
Exploring the Impact of Gamified Learning on Student Motivation in Computer Science Education
Authors: Alabdullah Bayan , Khenissi Mohamed Ali , Almjally Abrar 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Gamification has emerged as a promising approach to enhance motivation and engagement in educational contexts, including computer science education. While anecdotal evidence and case studies suggest its potential benefits, empirical investigation within higher education settings is necessary to ascertain its effectiveness. Of particular importance is the impact of gamification on intrinsic motivation, which plays a crucial role in fostering enduring interest and satisfaction in learning. This paper addresses this gap by investigating the effects of gamification on learner motivation in higher education. To achieve this objective, a gamified learning intervention was developed and implemented among computer science students in higher education. A total of 127 participants enrolled in the computer science bachelor's program were involved in the study. Through rigorous analysis of student data, the study seeks to provide credible evidence regarding the influence of gamification on learner motivation, with a specific focus on intrinsic motivation. Findings suggest that gamification holds promise in enhancing motivation among students, thereby fostering a positive learning experience in computer science education. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on gamification in education and offers insights into its potential to drive meaningful motivation and engagement among learners in higher education settings.
Ultrasound as a Standalone Tool for the Management of Pediatric Calvarial Dermoid Cysts
Authors: Alsalek Samir , Christian Eisha , Esfahani Darian 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Calvarial dermoid and epidermoid cysts are benign lesions common in pediatric neurosurgery. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, with frequent but inconsistent use of imaging. Dermoids have been shown to possess distinct sonographic features, but ultrasound (US) remains underutilized in their management. The purpose of this study is to investigate the independent reliability of US in managing pediatric calvarial dermoids and distinguishing them from other calvarial lesions.
Methods
A retrospective review of consecutive patients ≤ 21 years of age with surgically resected calvarial masses between 2017–2024 was performed. Demographic, clinical, and imaging data were analyzed. Pearson chi-squared tests were used for comparison of categorical variables and a binomial linear model was generated controlling for age, lesion tenderness, growth, and suture location.
Results
Fifty-nine patients with 61 lesions (31 in females; median age 13 months) were included. Dermoids were more common in younger patients (median age 12 months), along suture lines, and were less likely to present with tenderness (p < 0.001) or rapid growth (p = 0.003). Ultrasound was used in 83% of cases and was the sole imaging modality in 33%. On multivariate analysis, suture location was a significant positive predictor of a dermoid diagnosis (OR = 8.08, 95% CI = 1.67–44.18), while rapid growth was a significant negative predictor (OR = 0.08, 95% CI = 0.003–0.80).
Conclusion
Ultrasound presents a sensitive and reliable method for the evaluation of most pediatric calvarial lesions, especially dermoid cysts, and warrants being part of standard workup. With appropriate patient selection, US obviates the need for additional imaging in pediatric patients.
Mapping the cellular expression patterns of vascular endothelial growth factor aa and bb genes and their receptors in the adult zebrafish brain during constitutive and regenerative neurogenesis
Authors: Fernezelian Danielle , Pfitsch Sabrina , Rastegar Sepand , Diotel Nicolas 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The complex interplay between vascular signaling and neurogenesis in the adult brain remains a subject of intense research. By exploiting the unique advantages of the zebrafish model, in particular the persistent activity of neural stem cells (NSCs) and the remarkable ability to repair brain lesions, we investigated the links between NSCs and cerebral blood vessels. In this study, we first examined the gene expression profiles of vascular endothelial growth factors aa and bb (vegfaa and vegfbb), under physiological and regenerative conditions. Using fluorescence in situ hybridization coupled to immunostaining/histology techniques, we demonstrated the wide expression of vegfaa and vegfbb across the brain, and showed their expression in neurons, microglia, endothelial cells and NSCs. At 1 day post-lesion (dpl), both vegfaa and vegfbb appeared to be up-regulated in neurons and microglia. When we looked at their receptors, we also found a high expression throughout the brain. We showed that vegfr are mainly expressed in neurons, microglia and endothelial cells. Interestingly, vegfr transcripts appeared to be expressed at lower levels in NSCs (mainly vegfr1, vegfr2 and vegfr3). However, Vegfr3 and Vegfr4 immunostainings confirmed their significant expression in these neurogenic cells. These data suggest a possible role of Vegf signaling in neurogenesis. After brain lesion (1 dpl), vegfr gene expression did not appear to be modulated but vegfr were expressed in proliferative cells within the injured parenchyma. Taken together, our results provide a first overview of Vegf/Vegfr signaling in the brain and suggest key roles of Vegf in neurogenesis and regenerative processes.
A longitudinal network analysis of the relationship between love addiction, insecure attachment patterns, and interpersonal dependence
Authors: Guan Chongyuan , Wang JunYang , Zhang Luqing , Xu Zhou , Zhang， Yuanyuan , Jiang baona 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The present study utilized a web-based analytic approach designed to explore the interrelationships between love addiction, attachment anxiety, attachment avoidance, and interpersonal dependence. The study sample consisted of 80 (N = 160) couples in a romantic relationship using a longitudinal study with online self-assessment at the beginning of the study and three months after the study. Results indicated that attachment anxiety was strongly associated with lack of self-confidence, attachment avoidance was associated with autonomy, and love addiction was positively associated with emotional dependence and negatively associated with attachment avoidance. These results reveal a relationship between love addiction, insecure attachment patterns and interpersonal dependency dimensions. The extent of love addiction and insecure attachment patterns can be mitigated by severing ties, thereby improving the mental health of both couples.
Prenatal ultrasonic presentation in fetuses with monogenic neurologic and neuromuscular diseases: a retrospective study
Authors: Liu Ning , Li Ke , Sun Hengqing , Li Qianqian , Jiao Zhihui , Guo Yu , Sun Gege , Zhu Xiaofan , Kong Xiangdong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: The prenatal phenotype of neurological and neuromuscular monogenic diseases remains unclear. This study aimed to identify and explore prenatal ultrasonic presentation in fetuses with monogenic neurologic and neuromuscular diseases and to increase our knowledge on causal variants and novel candidate genes associated with fetal phenotypes.
Methods: This retrospective study included 30 fetuses genetically diagnosed with or suspected of having neurologic and neuromuscular monogenic diseases who underwent prenatal trio-exome sequencing between January 2018 and May 2023. We systematically reviewed data on prenatal ultrasonic presentation, genetic characteristics, and genotype-phenotype relationships in a cohort of 30 fetuses. Some cases in this cohort study have been previously published as separate studies.
Results: The disease spectrum of the 30 families included 27 diseases, including central nervous system diseases, neuromuscular diseases, congenital myopathy, mitochondrial diseases, and neurological genetic syndromes. The ultrasound abnormalities of the fetuses included abnormal fetal gestures and movements(18/30), polyhydramnios (15/30), increased nuchal translucency or nuchal fold (11/30), dysmorphic facial features (8/30), and brain malformations (6/30). Of the 40 variants detected, 35 were classified as pathogenic or likely pathogenic and 5 were of undetermined significance according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines. The inheritance patterns were autosomal dominant (17/30; 57%), autosomal recessive (10/30; 33%), and X-linked recessive (3/30; 10%). Thirteen (13/30; 43%) fetuses achieved a definite genetic diagnosis, including known or novel variants of the recognized disease genes. Sixteen (16/30, 54%) fetuses were highly or probably suspected to be associated with genetic variants, and one fetus was found to have gene variants that did not explain the phenotype.
Conclusions: The main clinical manifestations of prenatal ultrasonic presentation of neurological and neuromuscular monogenic diseases are abnormal fetal gestures, movements, and amniotic fluid volume, which might provide important clues for prenatal diagnosis. Trio-exome sequencing comprehensively detected and delineated various genomic variants that are causative. Our study expands our understanding of the prenatal phenotypic spectrum of monogenic neurological and neuromuscular diseases.
Cross-correlation based approach for counting nodes of undersea communications network considering limited bandwidth
Authors: Rahman Md. Zillur , Giti Jishan E , Chowdhury Shah Ariful Hoque , Anower Md. Shamim 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The limited bandwidth (BW) of undersea communication presents a significant challenge to the node counting technique based on cross-correlation (CC), which traditionally use Gaussian signals with infinite BW. To address this, a band-limited Gaussian signal is employed for counting nodes, impacting the cross-correlation function (CCF) and the derived estimation parameters. To correlate the estimation parameters for finite and infinite BW scenarios, a scaling factor (SF) is determined for a specific BW by averaging their ratios across different node counts. Efficient estimation in a band-limited condition is feasible if the SF for that BW is known. Previous investigations have been limited to 5 kHz and 10 kHz BW. Given the typical undersea BW range of 1–15 kHz, it is important to establish a relationship between the SF and BW. This relationship, derived and validated through simulation in this study, allows for determining the SF and achieving accurate node count under any band-limited condition within the 1–15 kHz range.
A novel nonsense variant of the KAT6B gene associated with cystic hygroma in fetus
Authors: Wang Guan , Ye YanChou , Zhan LongSheng , Xue Ting , Lin JunWei , Zhang Jun 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Cystic hygroma is a vascular anomaly associated with lymphatic malformations and is relatively common in prenatal ultrasonography, presenting as thickened nuchal translucency(NT). However, the underlying molecular mechanism of cystic hygroma is complex and not yet completely understood.
Methods
Trio-based whole exome sequencing(WES) was performed on a fetus with thickened NT but without chromosomal aberration, to indentify candidate pathogenic variants of potential Mendelian disorders. And Sanger sequencing was then conducted on the trio to confirm the variant.
Results
In this case, the fetus was diagnosed with cystic hygroma via the first-trimester ultrasonography, leading to termination of the pregnancy based on the pregnant woman's decision. Subsequently, trio-based WES was performed on the tissue of the aborted fetus and the blood samples of the parents. Data analysis indentified a novel nonsense variant, c.3822C > G(p.Tyr1274Ter) of the KAT6B gene (NM_012330.4) that had not been reported previously. And Sanger sequencing of the trio confirmed this variant. Genetic consulting was provided to the woman for the subsequent pregnancies.
Conclusion
KAT6B-related disorders manifest as cardiac diseases, and cardiac anomalies have been associated with disruptions in lymphatic system function, potentially contributing to the occurrence of cystic hygroma. Our findings illustrated the etiology of fetal abnormal development and lay the foundation for eugenics in the subsequent pregnancies. Additionally, findings expand the spectrum of variations in the KAT6B gene, offering further insights into its clinical relevance in prenatal cystic hygroma.
Stress Distribution of Different Anterior Single Implants: A 3D Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Bayazit Elif Ozturk , von Krockow Nadine , Curcio Ricardo 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction To evaluate the stress distributions of anteriorly placed dental implants in different clinical scenarios including extraction socket or healed bone as well as immediate or late loading. Material and Methods Standard tessellation language (STL) files of original components were used for the in-silico modelling of implant and abutments. The implant was placed into the bone block to imitate three different clinical scenarios including: i. healed bone-delayed loading, ii. healed bone-immediate loading, iii. immediate implant-immediate loading. In all models, both a horizontal force (25.5 N) and a 30-degree oblique force (178 N) were applied to the long axis of the implant to the palatal surface of the restoration. The stress distribution was evaluated. Results The highest stress values in trabecular bone were observed in the clinical scenario where immediate implant was inserted to the extraction socket followed by immediate loading to the healed bone and late loading to the healed bone, respectively. Conclusion The difference in stress distribution is much more evident when the clinical scenario changes, both in values and geometric distributions of stresses, than when the abutment angle changes. Oblique forces create more stress on both the bone and around the implant.
Comparison of structure and immunogenicity of CVB1-VLP and inactivated CVB1 vaccine candidates
Authors: Soppela Saana , Plavec Zlatka , Gröhn Stina , Jartti Minne , Oikarinen Sami , Laajala Mira , Marjomäki Varpu , Butcher Sarah J , Hankaniemi Minna M 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Coxsackievirus B1 (CVB1) is a common cause of acute and chronic myocarditis, dilated cardiomyopathy and aseptic meningitis. However, no CVB-vaccines are available for human use. In this study, we investigated the immunogenicity of virus-like particle (VLP) and inactivated whole-virus vaccines for CVB1 when administrated to mice via either subcutaneous or intranasal routes formulated with and without commercial and experimental adjuvants. Here, the potential of utilizing epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) as a mucosal adjuvant synergistically with its ability to inactivate the virus were investigated. EGCG had promising adjuvant properties for CVB1-VLP when administered via the parenteral route but limited efficacy via intranasal administration. However, intranasal administration of the formalin-inactivated virus induced high CVB1-specific humoral, cellular, and mucosal immune responses. Also, based on CVB1-specific IgG-antibody responses, we conclude that CVB1-VLP can be taken up by immune cells when administrated intranasally and further structural engineering for the VLP may increase the mucosal immunogenicity. The preparations contained mixtures of compact and expanded A particles with 85% expanded in the formalin-inactivated virus, but only 52% in the VLP observed by cryogenic electron microscopy. To correlate the structure to immunogenicity, we solved the structures of the CVB1-VLP and the formalin-inactivated CVB1 virus at resolutions ranging from 2.15 Å to 4.1 Å for the expanded and compact VLP and virus particles by image reconstruction. These structures can be used in designing mutations increasing the stability and immunogenicity of CVB1-VLP in the future. Overall, our results highlight the potential of using formalin inactivated CVB1 vaccine in mucosal immunization programs and provide important information for future development of VLP-based vaccines against all enteroviruses.