bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
DNA methylation, but not microRNA expression, is affected by in vitro THC exposure in bovine granulosa cells
Authors: Floccari Sabrina , Sabry Reem , Choux Laurie , Neal Michael S. , Khokhar Jibran Y. , Favetta Laura A. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
A global increase in cannabis use has led to questions about its effects on fertility. The rise in consumption amongst women of reproductive age is a growing concern, as this group is vulnerable in terms of reproductive health. Ample evidence suggests that the psychoactive component of cannabis, Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), that helps regulate mammalian reproduction. This study aimed to research the epigenetic effects of THC in bovine granulosa cells (GCs) by (1) investigating global DNA methylation via measuring 5-mC and 5-hmC levels; (2) measuring key methylation regulators, including the methylating enzymes DNMT1, DNMT3a, DNMT3b and the demethylases TDG and TET1/2/3; and (3) assessing fertility-associated miRNAs key in developmental competency, including miR-21, -155, -33b, -324 and -346.

Methods
Bovine GCs were used as a translational model for reproductive toxicity in humans. To determine THC effects, GCs were isolated from Cumulus-Oocyte-Complexes (COCs) from bovine ovaries, cultured in vitro for 7 days, or until confluent, and cryopreserved at passage 1 (P1). For experimentation, cells were thawed, cultured until passage 2 (P2), serum restricted for 24-h and treated for 24-h in one of five groups: control, vehicle (1:1:18 ethanol: tween: saline) and three clinically relevant THC doses (0.032, 0.32 and 3.2 μM). Global methylation was assessed by measuring 5-mC and 5-hmC levels with flow cytometry. To assess mRNA and protein expression of methylation regulators and miRNA profiles, qPCR and Western Blotting were utilized. Shapiro-Wilk test was used to determine normality within datasets. One-way ANOVA was applied to determine statistical significance using GraphPad Prism 6.0.0.

Results
Results indicate a significant decrease (p = 0.0435) in 5-mC levels following low THC exposure, while no changes were observed in 5-hmC levels. A significant increase in DNMT1 following high THC exposure at the RNA level (p < 0.05) and a significant increase following low THC exposure at the protein level (p = 0.0048) were also observed. No significant differences were observed in DNMT3a/3b, TDG, TET1/2/3 mRNAs or in any of the miRNAs analyzed.

Conclusions
This research suggests that THC mainly affects DNA methylation, but not miRNA profiles, ultimately altering gene expression and likely impairing oocyte competence, maturation, and fertilization potential.
Exploring the implementation and perception of competency-based assessment practices among Vietnamese EFL instructors
Authors: Yen Phuong Hoang , Thao Le Thanh 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis qualitative study explored the perspectives of Vietnamese English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers on the implementation of competency-based assessment (CBA) within the higher education context. Amidst the global shift towards competency-based education, this research aimed to understand how instructors in Vietnam navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by CBA, focusing on its impact on teaching practices and student learning. The objective of this study was to examine the adaptations and responses of EFL teachers to the implementation of CBA, identifying how these adaptations influence teaching effectiveness and student learning experiences. Employing semi-structured interviews with 10 EFL teachers from two institutions, the study was grounded in constructivist and social constructivist theoretical frameworks, facilitating a nuanced exploration of the participants’ experiences. The findings revealed several key themes: significant challenges in transitioning to CBA, including adapting to new methodologies and a lack of resources; the transformative potential of CBA for enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes; the need for targeted professional development to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation skills; and the role of CBA in fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, student autonomy, and inclusivity. Additionally, the study highlighted the complexities of providing effective, individualized feedback within CBA frameworks. The discussion underscores the importance of these findings in informing the development of more effective competency-based educational strategies and highlights recommendations for enhancing teacher training and assessment design to better support competency development. These insights contribute to the discourse on competency-based language education, suggesting implications for policy, practice, and future research. By highlighting the specific challenges and strategies employed by Vietnamese EFL teachers, this study offers valuable perspectives for instructors, policymakers, and researchers aiming to advance the implementation of competency-based assessment in language education globally.
Alendronate treatment rescues the effects of compressive loading of TMJ in osteogenesis imperfecta mice
Authors: Chen Po-Jung , Mehta Shivam , Dutra Eliane H. , Yadav Sumit 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic disorder of connective tissue caused by mutations associated with type I collagen, which results in defective extracellular matrix in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) cartilage and subchondral bone. TMJ is a fibrocartilaginous joint expressing type I collagen both in the cartilage and the subchondral bone. In the present study the effects of alendronate and altered loading of the TMJ was analyzed both in male and female OI mice.

Materials and methods
Forty-eight, 10-weeks-old male and female OI mice were divided into 3 groups: (1) Control group: unloaded group, (2) Saline + Loaded: Saline was injected for 2 weeks and then TMJ of mice was loaded for 5 days, (3) alendronate + loaded: alendronate was injected for 2 weeks and then TMJ of mice was loaded for 5 days. Mice in all the groups were euthanized 24-h after the final loading.

Results
Alendronate pretreatment led to significant increase in bone volume and tissue density. Histomorphometrically, alendronate treatment led to increase in mineralization, cartilage thickness and proteoglycan distribution. Increased mineralization paralleled decreased osteoclastic activity. Our immunohistochemistry revealed decreased expression of matrix metallopeptidase 13 and ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 5.

Conclusion
The findings of this research support that alendronate prevented the detrimental effects of loading on the extracellular matrix of the TMJ cartilage and subchondral bone.
Comparison of the dosimetry of scandium-43 and scandium-44 patient organ doses in relation to commonly used gallium-68 for imaging neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Gomes Carlos Vinícius , Mendes Bruno Melo , Paixão Lucas , Gnesin Silvano , Müller Cristina , van der Meulen Nicholas P. , Strobel Klaus , Fonseca Telma Cristina Ferreira , Lima Thiago Viana Miranda 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Several research groups have explored the potential of scandium radionuclides for theragnostic applications due to their longer half-lives and equal or similar coordination chemistry between their diagnostic and therapeutic counterparts, as well as lutetium-177 and terbium-161, respectively. Unlike the gallium-68/lutetium-177 pair, which may show different in-vivo uptake patterns, the use of scandium radioisotopes promises consistent behaviour between diagnostic and therapeutic radiopeptides. An advantage of scandium’s longer half-life over gallium-68 is the ability to study radiopeptide uptake over extended periods and its suitability for centralized production and distribution. However, concerns arise from scandium-44’s decay characteristics and scandium-43’s high production costs. This study aimed to evaluate the dosimetric implications of using scandium radioisotopes with somatostatin analogues against gallium-68 for PET imaging of neuroendocrine tumours.

Methods
Absorbed dose per injected activity (AD/IA) from the generated time-integrated activity curve (TIAC) were estimated using the radiopeptides [43/44/44mSc]Sc- and [68Ga]Ga-DOTATATE. The kidneys, liver, spleen, and red bone marrow (RBM) were selected for dose estimation studies. The EGSnrc and MCNP6.1 Monte Carlo (MC) codes were used with female (AF) and male (AM) ICRP phantoms. The results were compared to Olinda/EXM software, and the effective dose concentrations assessed, varying composition between the scandium radioisotopes.

Results
Our findings showed good agreement between the MC codes, with − 3 ± 8% mean difference. Kidneys, liver, and spleen showed differences between the MC codes (min and max) in a range of − 4% to 8%. This was observed for both phantoms for all radiopeptides used in the study. Compared to Olinda/EXM the largest observed difference was for the RBM, of 21% for the AF and 16% for the AM for scandium- and gallium-based radiopeptides. Despite the differences, our findings showed a higher absorbed dose on [43/44Sc]Sc-DOTATATE compared to its 68Ga-based counterpart.

Conclusion
This study found that [43/44Sc]Sc-DOTATATE delivers a higher absorbed dose to organs at risk compared to [68Ga]Ga-DOTATATE, assuming equal distribution. This is due to the longer half-life of scandium radioisotopes compared to gallium-68. However, calculated doses are within acceptable ranges, making scandium radioisotopes a feasible replacement for gallium-68 in PET imaging, potentially offering enhanced diagnostic potential with later timepoint imaging.
A direct and analytical method for inverse problems under uncertainty in energy system design: combining inverse simulation and Polynomial Chaos theory
Authors: Schwarz Sebastian , Carta Daniele , Monti Antonello , Benigni Andrea 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis article introduces and formalizes a novel stochastic method that combines inverse simulation with the theory of generalized Polynomial Chaos (gPC) to solve and study inverse problems under uncertainty in energy system design applications. The method is particularly relevant to design tasks where only a deterministic forward model of a physical system is available, in which a target design quantity is an input to the model that cannot be obtained directly, but can be quantified reversely via the outputs of the model. In this scenario, the proposed method offers an analytical and direct approach to invert such system models. The method puts emphasis on user-friendliness, as it enables its users to conduct the inverse simulation under uncertainty directly in the gPC domain by redefining basic algebra operations for computations. Moreover, the method incorporates an optimization-based approach to integrate supplementary constraints on stochastic quantities. This feature enables the solution of inverse problems bounding the statistical moments of stochastic system variables. The authors exemplify the application of the proposed method with proof-of-concept tests in energy system design, specifically performing uncertainty quantification and sensitivity analysis for a Multi-Energy System (MES). The findings demonstrate the high accuracy of the method as well as clear advantages over conventional sampling-based methods when dealing with a small number of stochastic variables in a system or model. However, the case studies also highlight the current limitations of the proposed method such as slow execution speed due to the optimization-based approach and the challenges associated with, for example, the curse of dimensionality in gPC.
Perioperative management of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy: an overview
Authors: Pillitteri Marta , Brogi Etrusca , Piagnani Chiara , Bozzetti Giuseppe , Forfori Francesco 
Published: July 2024

AbstractResembling the morphology of Japanese polyp vessels, the classic form of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is characterized by the presence of systolic dysfunction of the mid-apical portion of the left ventricle associated with basal hyperkinesia. It is believed that this may be due to a higher density of β-adrenergic receptors in the context of the apical myocardium, which could explain the greater sensitivity of the apex to fluctuations in catecholamine levels.The syndrome is precipitated by significant emotional stress or acute severe pathologies, and it is increasingly diagnosed during the perioperative period. Indeed, surgery, induction of general anaesthesia and critical illness represent potential harmful trigger of stress cardiomyopathy. No universally accepted guidelines are currently available, and, generally, the treatment of TTS relies on health care personal experience and/or local practice. In our daily practice, anaesthesiologists can be asked to manage patients with the diagnosis of new-onset Takotsubo before elective surgery or an emergent surgery in a patient with a concomitant stress cardiomyopathy. Even more, stress cardiomyopathy can arise as a complication during the operation.In this paper, we aim to provide an overview of Takotsubo syndrome and to discuss how to manage Takotsubo during surgery and in anaesthesiologic special settings.
Suspected olfactory meningioma and synchronous pituitary microadenoma in a canine patient treated with radiation therapy
Authors: Vanhaezebrouck Isabelle F. , Valenzuela Carlos R. Mendez , Bentley R. Timothy , Scarpelli Matthew L. , Blake Jeanna , Ekenstedt Kari 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe authors report on the rare occurrence of dual synchronous primary brain tumors in a canine patient, successful treatment with radiation therapy, and medical therapy with patient stabilization for almost three years. A 12.5-year-old spayed mixed-breed female Labrador was referred to Purdue Veterinary Hospital to treat hyperadrenocorticism of suspected pituitary origin. During MRI imaging, the presence of two possible brain neoplasms was detected: a possible right olfactory bulb meningioma and a microadenoma of the pituitary gland. The patient was treated with a fractionated course of radiation in both tumors, 15 treatments of 3Gy, which limited the tumor growth. Mitotane therapy corrected the hormonal dysregulation. The dog had a normal life for nearly three years and recently passed. Cancer cells were not found at necropsy. No MEN1 germline mutations were identified in constitutional DNA (from blood) via high-coverage whole genome sequencing.
Seizing Control: Primary Visual Cortex Epilepsy Treated With Resection and Responsive Neurostimulation: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Merenzon Martín A. , Lamsam Layton , McGrath Hari , Sivaraju Adithya , Hirsch Lawrence J. , Cukiert Arthur , Zibly Zion , Spencer Dennis D. , Damisah Eyiyemisi C. 
Published: July 2024

Occipital lobe epilepsy is a debilitating condition, and surgical resection has been effective, though challenges arise because of the cortex's function.
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Approximately 57% of patients with normal vision experience new visual field deficits postoperatively.
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A combined approach of resection and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) could aid in decreasing the visual field area severed and the disability tied to it while obtaining seizure freedom.
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We aimed to present a case of medically refractory occipital lobe epilepsy with involvement of the primary visual cortex treated with a combined approach. The patient consented to the procedure and to the publication of his image. Any identifiable individuals consented to publication of his/her image.
A 21-year-old right-handed male experienced refractory epilepsy since age 1 year. His first seizure was a severe refractory status epilepticus which resulted in cardiac arrest. His usual seizure semiology exhibited focal impaired awareness to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures occurring monthly. Noninvasive tests did not provide precise localization, but the intracranial electroencephalogram confirmed seizure onset in the right cuneus with rapid spread to the lingual gyrus and the superior parietal lobe. We performed a corticectomy
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of the seizure onset zone and used RNS to address spreading areas in the parietal and occipital lobe. A complete lobectomy was avoided to prevent postoperative homonymous hemianopsia in a previously intact patient. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 3 with a nondisabling left inferior quadrantanopia. No clinical seizures were detected after RNS was turned on, rendering so far 8.5 months of seizure freedom.
The combined surgical approach appears promising for medically refractory epilepsy involving functional areas.
Using Grocery Data for Credit Decisions
Authors: Lee Jung Youn , Yang Joonhyuk , Anderson Eric T. 
Published: July 2024

Many consumers across the world struggle to gain access to credit because of their lack of credit scores. This paper explores the potential of a new alternative data source, grocery transaction data, for evaluating consumers’ creditworthiness. Our analysis takes advantage of a unique, individual-level match of credit card data and supermarket loyalty card data. By developing credit scoring algorithms that either exclude or include grocery data, we illustrate both the incremental value of grocery data for credit decisions and its boundary conditions. We demonstrate that signals from grocery data can improve credit approval decisions, particularly for individuals who lack traditional credit scores. Furthermore, as a consumer establishes a relationship with lenders and builds a credit history, the marginal value of incorporating grocery data diminishes. These findings highlight the potential of grocery data in informing credit decisions and, consequently, in enabling financial institutions to extend credit to consumers who lack traditional credit scores. This paper was accepted by David Simchi-Levi, marketing. Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.02364 .
American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: Imported cases in Berlin 2000–2023
Authors: Lindner Andreas K. , Moreno-del Castillo Maria Cristina , Wintel Mia , Equihua Martinez Gabriela , Richter Joachim , Kurth Florian , Pfäfflin Frieder , Zoller Thomas , Gertler Maximilian , Georgi Susanne , Nürnberg Michael , Hülso Claudia , Bernhard Julian , Kotsias Sarah Konopelska , Seigerschmidt Antonio , van Loon Welmoed , Mockenhaupt Frank , Kampmann Beate , Harms Gundel 
Published: July 2024

Background
American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (ACL) shows variable response to therapy, but data on species-specific treatment efficacy is scarce. We describe the clinical characteristics and outcome of patients with ACL imported to a tertiary centre in Germany and determine whether species-specific therapy according to the 2014 “LeishMan” group recommendations is associated with cure.

Methods
A retrospective chart review was conducted at the Charité Institute of International Health in Berlin. We analysed data on PCR-confirmed ACL cases collected between 2000 and 2023. Systemic therapy included liposomal amphotericin B, miltefosine, pentavalent antimony, ketoconazole or itraconazole. Localized therapy included perilesional pentavalent antimony or paromomycin ointment. Cure was defined as re-epithelialization of ulcers or disappearance of papular-nodular lesions after 3 months of treatment. Logistic regression models were used to quantify the effect of species-specific systemic therapy on the outcome.

Results
75 cases were analysed. Most patients were male (62%), median age was 35 years, no patient had a history of immunosuppression. The most common reason for travel was tourism (60%), the most common destination was Costa Rica (28%), the median duration of illness was 8 weeks, and most patients presented with ulcers (87%). Lesions were complex in 43%. The most common Leishmania (L.) species was L. braziliensis (28%), followed by L. panamensis (21%). 51/73 (70%) patients were cured after initial therapy and 17/21 (81%) after secondary therapy. Cure after systemic therapy was more frequent when species-specific treatment recommendations were followed (33/45; 73%), compared to when not followed, (6/17; 35%, P = 0.008). This association was independent of age, sex, previous therapy, complex lesions, and Leishmania species (adjusted OR, 5.06; 95% CI, 1.22–24.16).

Conclusions
ACL is a rare, imported disease in Germany. Complex lesions were common, challenging successful therapy. This study highlights the importance of identifying the parasite species and suggests that a species-specific approach to treatment leads to better outcomes.
Preliminary study of indocyanine green-guided laparoscopic lateral lymph node dissection for rectal cancer
Authors: Wu Chu-Ying , Zhong Wen-Jin , Ye Kai 
Published: July 2024

Background
LLNM can occur in mid-low rectal cancer, but LLND in patients with rectal cancer presents certain challenges. Recent years have seen the progressive application of ICG fluorescence imaging technology in colorectal surgery. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of ICG-guided laparoscopic LLND for rectal cancer.

Methods
We applied ICG-guided laparoscopic lateral lymph node dissection in 11 patients diagnosed as rectal cancer with lateral lymph node metastasis.

Results
All 11 patients in this group successfully completed ICG-guided laparoscopic LLND for rectal cancer with good lateral lymph node imaging.

Conclusions
ICG-guided laparoscopic LLND for rectal cancer is safe and represents a feasible solution, thereby providing valuable guidance for intraoperative lymph node dissection.