bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Expression of TGFβ-1 and CTGF in the Implanted Cochlea and its Implication on New Tissue Formation
Authors: Xiao Adam Y. , Lopez Ivan A. , Ishiyama Gail , Ishiyama Akira 
Published: July 2024

Hypothesis
Transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFβ-1) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) are upregulated in the implanted human cochlea.

Background
Cochlear implantation can lead to insertion trauma and intracochlear new tissue formation, which can detrimentally affect implant performance. TGFβ-1 and CTGF are profibrotic proteins implicated in various pathologic conditions, but little is known about their role in the cochlea. The present study aimed to characterize the expression of these proteins in the human implanted cochlea.

Methods
Archival human temporal bones (HTB) acquired from 12 patients with previous CI and histopathological evidence of new tissue formation as well as surgical samples of human intracochlear scar tissue surrounding the explanted CI were used in this study. Histopathologic analysis of fibrosis and osteoneogenesis was conducted using H&E. Protein expression was characterized using immunofluorescence. RNA expression from surgical specimens of fibrotic tissue surrounding the CI was quantified using qRT-PCR.

Results
TGFβ-1 and CTGF protein expressions were upregulated in the areas of fibrosis and osteoneogenesis surrounding the CI HTB. Similarly, surgical samples demonstrated upregulation of protein and mRNA expression of TGFβ-1 and mild upregulation of CTGF compared with control. TGFβ-1 was expressed diffusely within the fibrous capsule, whereas CTGF was expressed in the thickened portion toward the modiolus and the fibrosis-osteoneogensis junction.

Conclusion
To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate increased expression of TGFβ-1 and CTGF in the human implanted cochlea and may provide better understanding of the mechanism behind this pathogenic process to better develop future mitigating interventions.
Tissue Classification After Bone-Anchored Hearing Implant Surgery: A Machine Learning Approach to Monitoring Skin Response
Authors: Cummine Jacqueline , Ostevik Amberley , Song Qi , Kim Yongbin , Nayar Suresh , Hodgetts William 
Published: July 2024

Hypothesis
Here, we aim to 1) expand the available evidence for the use of machine learning techniques for soft tissue classification after BCD surgery and 2) discuss the implications of such approaches toward the development of classification applications to aid in tissue monitoring.

Background
The application of machine learning techniques in the soft tissue literature has become a large field of study. One of the most commonly reported outcomes after percutaneous bone-conduction device (BCD) surgery is soft tissue health. Unfortunately, the classification of tissue around the abutment as healthy versus not healthy is a subjective process, even though such decisions can have implications for treatment (i.e., topical steroid versus surgical revision) and resources (e.g., clinician time).

Methods
We built and tested a convolutional neural network (CNN) model for the classification of tissues that were rated as “green” (i.e., healthy), “yellow” (i.e., unhealthy minor), and “red” (i.e., unhealthy severe).

Methods
Representative image samples were gathered from a regional bone-conduction amplification site (N = 398; 181 samples of green; 144 samples of yellow; 73 samples of red). The image samples were cropped, zoomed, and normalized. Feature extraction was then implemented and used as the input to train an advanced CNN model.

Results
Accuracy of image classification for the healthy (“green”) versus not healthy (“yellow” and “red”) model was approximately 87%. Accuracy of image classification for the unhealthy (“yellow”) versus unhealthy (“red”) model was approximately 94%.

Conclusions
Monitoring tissue health is an ongoing challenge for BCD users and their clinicians not trained in soft tissue management (e.g., audiologists). If machine learning can aid in the classification of tissue health, this would have significant implications for stakeholders. Here we discuss how machine learning can be applied to tissue classification as a potential technological aid in the coming years.
Effect of hemolysis on D-dimer testing measured with the Improgen kit: is all manufacturer information correct?
Authors: Odabasi Merve Sena 
Published: July 2024

D-dimer is a fibrin degradation product and its measurement is affected by hemolysis. This study was designed to reveal the value of hemolysis affecting D-dimer in our laboratory.
In this study, hemolysate samples obtained by both mechanical and freezing methods were used. D-dimer levels of all plasmas were measured with Improgen Diagnostic kit by immune-turbidimetric method. Numerical change in hemolyzed samples was evaluated by calculating the percentage difference, and clinically significant differences were evaluated by calculating the maximum acceptable bias (MAB).
In the hemolysate study prepared by both freeze-thaw and mechanical methods, it was observed that low D-dimer levels did not exceed the total allowable error (TAE) (30%) up to +2 hemolysis (corresponds to hemoglobin = 1.01–2 g/l) and did not exceed the MAB (65%) even at +4 hemolysis (corresponds to hemoglobin = 1.01–2 g/l). High D-dimer levels did not exceed the limit values of both TAE (30%) and MAB (68%) even in +4 hemolysis. The D-dimer test was affected by lower levels of hemolysis compared to both other studies and the values in the kit insert (hemoglobin >5 g/l corresponds to +4 hemolysis index).
We verified the hemolysis interference in the D-dimer test, which we thought was not compatible with the kit insert, under our own laboratory conditions. This is the first hemolysis interference study performed with the Improgen brand d-dimer kit. In samples with a hemolysis rate of +2 and above, it would be more accurate to reject the D-dimer result as a ‘hemolyzed sample’.
Geriatric nutritional risk index and quality of life among elderly hemodialysis patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nouri Ali , Mansour-ghanaei Roya , Esmaeilpour-Bandboni Mohammad , Gholami Chaboki Bahare 
Published: July 2024

Background:
Nutritional problems are considered one of the main complications of hemodialysis, and the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) is a new instrument for assessing geriatric nutritional status. The present study sought to evaluate the relationship between the GNRI and quality of life (QOL) among elderly hemodialysis patients.

Methods:
In the present analytical cross-sectional study, 110 hemodialysis individuals were selected by applying a simple random sampling method, among whom 57 and 53 were males and females, respectively (mean: 70.3±6.93 years). Demographic characteristics, GNRI, and QOL status were determined. The data were analyzed using SPSS 20 software and descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, ANOVA, independent sample t-tests, and multiple linear regression analysis.

Results:
The mean GNRI and mean total QOL were respectively obtained 93.903±11.067 and 20.95 ± 4.89. Among females, a significant direct relationship was observed between GNRI and total QOL (P = 0.010, r = 0.352), autonomy (P = 0.004, r = 0.389), and pleasure (P = 0.015, r = 0.333), while GNRI was not directly and significantly related to QOL in males (P = 0.161, r = 0.188).

Conclusion:
Due to the presence of a significant association between Geriatric GNRI and QOL among elderly hemodialysis patients, particularly among females, highlighting the importance of addressing nutritional status in optimizing well-being.
Incidental diagnosis of bilateral common iliac artery aneurysms: a case report and comprehensive literature review
Authors: katwal Shailendra , Katwal Srijana , Bhandari Sushmita , Paudel Pratiksha , Bhandari Devendra , Bhandari Shristi , Maharjan Santosh 
Published: July 2024

Introduction and importance:
Aneurysms are dilatations of arteries, with abdominal aortic ectasias (AAE) considered precursors to abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). Iliac artery aneurysms (IAAs), often accompanying AAA, present a serious risk, particularly due to rupture. Here, the authors present a case highlighting the importance of recognizing and managing isolated bilateral common iliac artery aneurysms (CIAAs).

Case presentation:
A 66-year-old male presented following a road traffic accident (RTA) with ankle and leg pain. Examination revealed tenderness in the leg, mild right flank tenderness, and a history of mild pelvic pain. Biochemical studies showed deranged glucose and lipid levels. Imaging revealed large CIAAs, prompting surgical intervention. The patient’s fracture was also managed accordingly.

Clinical discussion:
CIAAs are rare but serious, typically occurring in elderly males with risk factors including advanced age, male sex, smoking, and hypertension, while diabetes and hyperlipidemia may exert protective effects. While often asymptomatic, they can lead to complications such as thrombosis or rupture. Diagnosis relies on imaging, and intervention is recommended for larger or symptomatic aneurysms.

Conclusion:
It’s crucial to consider CIAAs in high-risk individuals and recognize the significance of early detection and intervention to prevent potentially life-threatening complications. Prompt management, either through open surgical repair or endovascular options, is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Evaluation of occlusal force changes in orthognathic surgery using force-sensing sensors in 3 years of follow-up
Authors: Duarte Fernando , Silva João Neves , Ramos Carina , Hopper Colin 
Published: July 2024

Purpose:
The aim of this study was to test a prototype device called occlusal force diagnostic system in relation to occlusal force adaptation following orthognathic surgery.

Methods:
Retrospective study of 10 patients scheduled for a bimaxillary osteotomy involving a combination of maxillary Le Fort I impaction procedure coupled with a sagittal split advancement of the mandible; in a 3 years follow-up period.

Results:
The selection of examiner is not a variable that affects the occlusal force (N) measured by FSS sensors in any of the experimental conditions tested. The sensor position and the surgery recovery time affect the occlusal force irrespective of the examiner selection and/or the surgery recovery time.

Conclusion:
The piezoelectric sensors used in the present study have shown high reliability and validity of measurement. The surgery recovery time impacts the occlusal force (N), with a 50% increase in occlusal force (N) measured after 6 months post-surgery, with the value keeping stable at 36 months. This suggests that the patient is only fully recovered from the functional point-of-view at 6 months, having from that point on an improved and stable masticatory function.
Penetrating brain injury through the cavernous sinus by chopsticks in Vienamese: a case report
Authors: Dong He Van , Nguyen Anh Quoc , Dong Hanh Hong Thi , Vu Hai Trung , Pham Anh Hoang 
Published: July 2024

Introduction and importance:
Penetrating brain injuries from chopsticks are exceedingly rare, often documented through case reports. Management strategies are tailored to individual cases, with a focus on mitigating postoperative complications.

Case presentation:
A 33-year-old male presented with a chopstick lodged in his right eye. Computed tomography (CT) imaging revealed two foreign bodies, prompting collaborative surgical removal by neurosurgery and ophthalmology teams. The procedure involved intricate bone drilling to access critical structures, ensuring a successful outcome with stability at 1-month follow-up.

Clinical discussion:
Common trajectories involve orbital roof penetration, posing risks of frontal lobe injury and intracerebral hematoma. Challenges arise with wooden foreign bodies, necessitating advanced imaging like CT angiography to assess vascular involvement. Surgical intervention offers benefits such as foreign body extraction, neurovascular protection, tissue debridement, hematoma evacuation, and dural repair.

Conclusion:
Although rare, chopstick-related penetrating brain injuries warrant vigilance in neurosurgical practice. Surgical intervention remains the cornerstone of treatment, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.
Elevated 68Ga-FAPI Activity in Benign Carotid Body Tumors
Authors: Xie Yang , Tang Wenxin , Chen Xi , Bai Xue , Chen Yue 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
We present 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT findings of benign carotid body tumor in a 33-year-old woman. Benign carotid body tumor demonstrated intense tracer uptakes on 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT. Our case suggests that benign carotid body tumors should be considered in the differential diagnosis of neck mass with elevated 68Ga-FAPI activity.
RENIN AND ANGIOTENSIN (1–7) OFFER PREDICTIVE VALUE IN PEDIATRIC SEPSIS: FINDINGS FROM PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL COHORTS
Authors: Pi Dandan , Zheng Lijun , Gao Caixia , Xiao Changxue , Yu Zhicai , Fu Yueqiang , Li Jing , Chen Chengzhi , Liu Chengjun , Zou Zhen , Xu Feng 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Background: Pediatric sepsis is a common and complex syndrome characterized by a dysregulated immune response to infection. Aberrations in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) are factors in several infections of adults. However, the precise impact of RAS dysregulation in pediatric sepsis remains unclear. Methods: Serum samples were collected from a derivation cohort (58 patients with sepsis, 14 critically ill control subjects, and 37 healthy controls) and validation cohort (50 patients with sepsis, 37 critically ill control subjects, and 46 healthy controls). Serum RAS levels on day of pediatric intensive care unit admission were determined and compared with survival status and organ dysfunction. Results: In the derivation cohort, the serum renin concentration was significantly higher in patients with sepsis (3,678 ± 4,746) than that in healthy controls (635.6 ± 199.8) (P < 0.0001). Meanwhile, the serum angiotensin (1–7) was significantly lower in patients with sepsis (89.7 ± 59.7) compared to that in healthy controls (131.4 ± 66.4) (P < 0.01). These trends were confirmed in a validation cohort. Nonsurvivors had higher levels of renin (8,207 ± 7,903) compared to survivors (2,433 ± 3,193) (P = 0.0001) and lower levels of angiotensin (1–7) (60.9 ± 51.1) compared to survivors (104.0 ± 85.1) (P < 0.05). A combination of renin, angiotensin (1–7) and procalcitonin achieved a model for diagnosis with an area under the receiver operating curve of 0.87 (95% CI: 0.81–0.92). Conclusion: Circulating renin and angiotensin (1–7) have predictive value in pediatric sepsis.
MICROBIOME AND INFLAMMASOME ALTERATIONS FOUND DURING RADIATION DOSE FINDING IN A SINCLAIR MINIPIG MODEL OF GASTROINTESTINAL ACUTE RADIATION SYNDROME
Authors: Horseman Timothy S. , Parajuli Babita , Frank Andrew M. , Weaver Alia , Schauer David A. , Moran Sean , Anderson Joseph A. , Holmes-Hampton Gregory P. , Burmeister David M. 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT
Both abdominal radiotherapy and a nuclear event can result in gastrointestinal symptoms, including acute radiation syndrome (GI-ARS). GI-ARS is characterized by compromised intestinal barrier integrity increasing the risk for infectious complications. Physiologically relevant animal models are crucial for elucidating host responses and therapeutic targets. We aimed to determine the radiation dose requirements for creating GI-ARS in the Sinclair minipig. Male, sexually mature swine were randomly divided into sham (n = 6) and three lower hemibody radiation dosage groups of 8, 10, and 12 Gy (n = 5/group) delivered using linear accelerator-derived x-rays (1.9 Gy/min). Animals were monitored for GI-ARS symptoms for 14 days with rectal swab and blood collection at days 0–3, 7, 10, and 14 followed by necropsy for western blotting and histology. Dose-dependent increases in weight loss, diarrhea severity, and mortality (log-rank test, P = 0.041) were seen. Villi length was significantly reduced in all irradiated animals compared to controls (P < 0.001). Serum citrulline decreased and bacterial translocation increased after irradiation compared to controls. Increased NLRP3 levels in post-mortem jejunum were seen (P = 0.0043) as well as increased IL-1β levels in the 12 Gy group (P = 0.041). Radiation dose and survival were associated with significant gut microbial community shifts in beta diversity. Moreover, decedents had increased Porphyromonas, Campylobacter, Bacteroides, Parvimonas, and decreased Fusobacterium and decreased Aerococcus, Lactobacillus, Prevotella, and Streptococcus. Our novel Sinclair minipig model showed dose-dependent clinical symptoms of GI-ARS. These findings provide invaluable insights into the intricate interplay between GI-ARS, intestinal inflammation, and gut microbiota alterations offering potential targets for therapeutic and diagnostic interventions after radiation exposure.
Consensus Statement: Technical Standards for Thoracoabdominal Normothermic Regional Perfusion
Authors: Hoffman Jordan R.H. , Hartwig Matthew G. , Cain Michael T. , Rove Jessica Y. , Siddique Aleem , Urban Marian , Mulligan Michael S. , Bush Errol L. , Balsara Keki , Demarest Caitlin T. , Silvestry Scott C. , Wilkey Barbara , Trahanas John M. , Pretorius Victor G. , Shah Ashish S. , Moazami Nader , Pomfret Elizabeth A. , Catarino Pedro A. ,   In collaboration with members from The American Society of Transplant Surgeons (ASTS), The International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT), The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), and The American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS)
Published: July 2024

Background.
Thoracoabdominal normothermic regional perfusion (TA-NRP) has emerged as a powerful technique for optimizing organ procurement from donation after circulatory death donors. Despite its rapid adoption, standardized guidelines for TA-NRP implementation are lacking, prompting the need for consensus recommendations to ensure safe and effective utilization of this technique.

Methods.
A working group composed of members from The American Society of Transplant Surgeons, The International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation, The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, and The American Association for Thoracic Surgery was convened to develop technical guidelines for TA-NRP. The group systematically reviewed existing literature, consensus statements, and expert opinions to identify key areas requiring standardization, including predonation evaluation, intraoperative management, postdonation procedures, and future research directions.

Results.
The working group formulated recommendations encompassing donor evaluation and selection criteria, premortem testing and therapeutic interventions, communication protocols, and procedural guidelines for TA-NRP implementation. These recommendations aim to facilitate coordination among transplant teams, minimize variability in practice, and promote transparency and accountability throughout the TA-NRP process.

Conclusions.
The consensus guidelines presented herein serve as a comprehensive framework for the successful and ethical implementation of TA-NRP programs in organ procurement from donation after circulatory death donors. By providing standardized recommendations and addressing areas of uncertainty, these guidelines aim to enhance the quality, safety, and efficiency of TA-NRP procedures, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes for transplant recipients.
American Society of Transplant Surgeons Normothermic Regional Perfusion Standards: Ethical, Legal, and Operational Conformance
Authors: Wall Anji E. , Merani Shaheed , Batten Jason , Lonze Bonnie , Mekeel Kristin , Nurok Michael , Prinz Jennifer , Gil John , Pomfret Elizabeth A. , Guarrera James V. 
Published: July 2024

Background.
The American Society of Transplant Surgeons convened a multidisciplinary working group to address operational, ethical, and legal considerations surrounding normothermic regional perfusion (NRP) procurement.

Methods.
The working group, comprising members from American Society of Transplant Surgeons and AST across various disciplines including transplant surgery, hepatology, critical care, and bioethics, collaborated to formulate recommendations and guidance for NRP procurement.

Results.
The following topics were identified by the group as essential standards that need to be addressed for ethical, legal, and operational conformance: terminology; conceptualization of death in the context of NRP; and communication, logistics, and training and competency.

Conclusions.
Fourteen recommendations that support the ethical and legal acceptability of NRP in the United States and set expectations for the conduct of NRP procedures are provided.
Sex and gender differences in cancer in individuals with severe mental disorders
Authors: Bajić Žarko , Vuk-Pisk Sandra , Filipčić Igor , Šimunović Filipčić Ivona 
Published: July 2024

Purpose of review
Although cancer incidence is similar between individuals with severe mental disorders (SMD) and the general population (GP), survival rates are lower, particularly in those with schizophrenia. While the scientific and medical communities acknowledge sex differences in cancer mechanisms, including risk factors and cancer types, less is known about sex and gender disparities in incidence, mortality, and care pathways among those with SMD. This review aims to explore these differences in cancer among individuals with SMD.

Recent findings
Current evidence on sex and gender differences in cancer care for SMD is limited. It is unclear how these factors affect cancer incidence and mortality in the SMD population, and if they correspond to those in the GP. The literature frequently omits detailed information on sex-based differences in SMD-related cancer rates, complicating conclusive analysis. Moreover, people with SMD experience significant challenges in accessing cancer screenings compared to the GP, and findings on sex and gender disparities in this context remain inconclusive.

Summary
This review emphasizes that while significant sex and gender-based differences in cancer mechanisms, incidence, and survival exist within the GP, they have not been fully integrated into clinical practice. It underscores the need of addressing these differences in cancer incidence, outcomes, mortality, and care pathways to enhance treatment for individuals with SMD.
A standardised approach to quantifying activity in domestic dogs
Authors: Karimjee Kamila , Harron Rachel C. M. , Piercy Richard J. , Daley Monica A. 
Published: July 2024

Objective assessment of activity via accelerometry can provide valuable insights into dog health and welfare. Common activity metrics involve using acceleration cut-points to group data into intensity categories and reporting the time spent in each category. Lack of consistency and transparency in cut-point derivation makes it difficult to compare findings between studies. We present an alternative metric for use in dogs: the acceleration threshold (as a fraction of standard gravity, 1 g = 9.81 m/s
2
) above which the animal's X most active minutes are accumulated (MX
ACC
) over a 24-hour period. We report M2
ACC,
M30
ACC
and M60
ACC
data from a colony of healthy beagles (
n
= 6) aged 3–13 months. To ensure that reference values are applicable across a wider dog population, we incorporated labelled data from beagles and volunteer pet dogs (
n
= 16) of a variety of ages and breeds. The dogs' normal activity patterns were recorded at 200 Hz for 24 hours using collar-based Axivity-AX3 accelerometers. We calculated acceleration vector magnitude and MX
ACC
metrics. Using labelled data from both beagles and pet dogs, we characterize the range of acceleration outputs exhibited enabling meaningful interpretation of MX
ACC
. These metrics will help standardize measurement of canine activity and serve as outcome measures for veterinary and translational research.