bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Giant laryngeal neuroendocrine neoplasm causing airway obstruction: A case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Yaqi , Ding Longqing , Liu Jiahui , Guo Ying , Yao Yisong , Chen Xi , Mou Yakui , Song Xicheng 
Published: May 2024

Rationale:Laryngeal neuroendocrine neoplasm (NEN) is a rare and heterogeneous disease that originates from neuroendocrine cells. It mainly occurs in middle-aged and elderly men. Due to the lack of specific clinical and imaging manifestations, diagnosis and treatment of the disease pose a challenge. Therefore, a consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of the disease is necessary. By discussing this case, we will be able to gain further insight into laryngeal NEN and will be able to provide some recommendations for the future management of this rare disease.Patient concerns:A 67-year-old man was admitted to our department with a history of sore throat and dyspnea. After admission, the patient experienced acute airway obstruction and experienced an emergency bedside tracheotomy.Diagnoses:Flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy and enhanced CT showed a cauliflower-like mass in the left supraglottic region and obstructed most of the laryngeal cavity. We biopsied the mass, and the pathology showed a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma.Interventions:A horizontal hemilaryngectomy and left neck dissection were performed. At 4 weeks after the operation, the patient underwent chemotherapy and radical radiotherapy.Outcomes:After a 1-year postoperative follow-up, the patient recovered well and showed no signs of recurrence.Lessons:Laryngeal neuroendocrine neoplasm is very rare, early diagnosis remains difficult. Radical surgery combined with postoperative chemoradiotherapy is currently the most appropriate treatment.
Factors related to training time and achieving proficiency with visual-assistive mobile applications in visually impaired older adults
Authors: Malkin Alexis G. , Bittner Ava K. , Ho Jeffrey , Idman-Rait Cecilia , Estabrook Max , Ross Nicole C. ,   for the CARE Study Team
Published: May 2024

SIGNIFICANCE
A majority of visually impaired older adults were able to learn to proficiently use visual-assistive iPhone applications (apps) following a median 1 hour and/or multiple training sessions, which should be considered when planning vision rehabilitation service delivery, including the option for remote telerehabilitation for those who prefer that modality.

PURPOSE
Older adults with low vision are increasingly using technology to improve their visual functioning. We examined whether age-related comorbidities were potential barriers to success in learning to use visual-assistive apps on a smartphone.

METHODS
A clinical trial assessed visual-assistive apps in 116 older adults aged 55+ years (mean [standard deviation], 72 [10] years). Subjects were randomized to use an app (SuperVision+, Seeing AI, or Aira) preloaded to a loaner iPhone and completed one-on-one training. App proficiency was measured by the participant's ability to use the iPhone/app without cueing at the end of training sessions. Training time was recorded for the initial session and totaled after subsequent sessions. Multiple regression models explored significant factors associated with training time and proficiency.

RESULTS
Median initial and total training times were 45 and 60 minutes, respectively. Increased initial and total training times were both significantly related to increased age (p<0.001), legal blindness (p<0.007), Seeing AI versus SuperVision+ app (p<0.03), and participants from New England versus California (p<0.001). Most (71%) achieved proficiency after the initial training session; those odds were significantly greater among younger participants (p=0.04), those who opted for telerehabilitation (p=0.03), those who had higher cognitive scores (p=0.04), or those who were from New England (p=0.04). The majority (90%) was ultimately proficient with the app; those odds were significantly greater among participants who already had an optical magnifier (p=0.008), but were unrelated to other factors including study site.

CONCLUSIONS
Following multiple, extensive training sessions, age, mild cognitive loss, or level of visual impairment did not preclude gaining proficiency with visual-assistive apps by visually impaired seniors, but those factors were associated with longer training times. Telerehabilitation can be a viable option to provide app training remotely for visually impaired seniors who choose that modality.
Evaluation of 755-nm Picosecond Alexandrite Laser With a Focus Lens Array for the Treatment of Enlarged Facial Pores
Authors: Ninghua Liu , Cao Luhong , Song Nan , Zhang Jing 
Published: May 2024

Objectives:
This study aims to evaluate the use of 755-nm picosecond alexandrite laser with a focus lens array to treat facial pores.

Methods:
Laser treatment was performed on 129 patients between January 2021 and October 2022. VISIA imaging system was used for photographic assessments, the total average number and pore index was calculated, the physicians’ assessment score and patient satisfaction score were collected, and the incidence of disadvantage effects was also documented.

Results:
The mean patient age was 35.2±6.4 years (21–45 y). The total average number of facial pores was 1614.1±412.8, and the total average number decreased to 1262.6±356.2 three months after the last treatment. The pretreatment baseline of pore index was 26.1±4.5, while the pore index was 21.3±3.7 three months after the last treatment. The physicians’ assessment score was 2.7 on the 0-to-4 scale, and patient satisfaction score was 3.5 on the 1-to-5 scale. There were no adverse events, such as hyperkeratosis, scarring, and hypo-or hyperpigmentation.

Conclusions:
755-nm picosecond alexandrite laser with a focus lens array was safe and effective in the treatment of facial pores with relatively few unanticipated adverse events.

Level of Evidence:
Level IV—observational study without controls.
Research and publication gaps on kratom and kratom products: a scoping review of current literature
Authors: Vicknasingam Balasingam , Karunakaran Thiruventhan , Chawarski Marek C. 
Published: May 2024

Purpose of reviewKratom plant, products derived from the plant, and plant phytochemicals are of great interest among researchers, clinicians, and consumers. However, there is a paucity of rigorously collected scientific data on their risk/safety profile and public health impact. This scoping review discusses original research articles published between 2022 and 2023. It focuses on identifying publication gaps on topics related to epidemiology, public health, and risk/safety profiles comparing evidence collected by researchers from Southeast Asia and the West.Recent findingsOur review of the Scopus database identified a total of 55 publications, including clinical case reports and case series reports, surveys, studies enrolling human participants, and publications based on large-scale national surveys or large-scale national or international health system database records.SummaryOverall, there is dearth of reliable data on key epidemiological factors, including the prevalence rates, and on objective and reliable indices of the risk/safety profiles. Rigorous and systematic studies including improved epidemiological surveillance, human laboratory, and controlled clinical studies are urgently needed to advance our understanding of public health consequences of consuming kratom and kratom-derived products and to improve our understanding of their risk/safety profile and additional analytical studies to better inform development of needed regulatory oversight.
Strong Protection by Bazedoxifene Against Chemically-Induced Ferroptotic Neuronal DeathIn VitroandIn Vivo
Authors: Hao Xiangyu , Wang Yifan , Yang Yong Xiao , Liao Lixi , Chen Tongxiang , Wang Pan , Chen Xiaojun , Zhu Bao Ting 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACTFerroptosis is a form of regulated cell death characterized by excessive iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. Ferroptosis can be induced in cultured cells by exposure to certain chemicals (e.g., erastin and RSL3). Recently it was shown that protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) is a mediator of chemically-induced ferroptosis and also a target for ferroptosis protection. In this study, we find that bazedoxifene (BAZ), a selective estrogen receptor modulator with reported neuroprotective actions in humans, can inhibit PDI function and also strongly protect against chemically-induced ferroptosis in cultured neuronal cells. We find that BAZ can directly bind to PDIin vitroand in intact neuronal cells, and also can inhibit PDI’s catalytic activity. Computational modeling analysis reveals that BAZ forms a hydrogen bond with PDI-His256. Inhibition of PDI by BAZ markedly reduces nNOS and iNOS dimerization and NO accumulation, which have recently been shown to play a crucial role in mediating chemically-induced ferroptosis. In addition, the direct antioxidant activity of BAZ may also partially contribute to its protective effect against chemically-induced ferroptosis. Behavioral analysis shows that mice treated with BAZ are strongly protected against kainic acid-induced memory deficits and hippocampal neuronal damagein vivo. In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate that BAZ is an inhibitor of PDI and can strongly prevent chemically-induced ferroptosis in hippocampal neurons bothin vitroandin vivo. These observations offer a novel, estrogen receptor-independent mechanism for the recently-reported neuroprotective actions of BAZ in humans.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTFerroptosis is an iron- and lipid peroxidation-dependent form of regulated cell death. Recent evidence has shown that protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) is an important mediator of chemically-induced ferroptosis and also a new target for ferroptosis protection. We find that bazedoxifene is an inhibitor of PDI, which can strongly protect against chemically-induced ferroptotic neuronal deathin vitroandin vivo. Additionally, the molecular mechanism of PDI□bazedoxifene binding interaction is defined. This work provides evidence for an estrogen receptor-independent, PDI-mediated mechanism of neuroprotection by bazedoxifene.
UV-induced reorganization of 3D genome mediates DNA damage response
Authors: Oğulcan Kaya Veysel , Adebali Ogün 
Published: May 2024

AbstractWhile it is well-established that UV radiation threatens genomic integrity, the precise mechanisms by which cells orchestrate DNA damage response and repair within the context of 3D genome architecture remain unclear. Here, we address this gap by investigating the UV-induced reorganization of the 3D genome and its critical role in mediating damage response. Employing temporal maps of contact matrices and transcriptional profiles, we illustrate the immediate and holistic changes in genome architecture post-irradiation, emphasizing the significance of this reconfiguration for effective DNA repair processes. We demonstrate that UV radiation triggers a comprehensive restructuring of the 3D genome structure at all levels, including loops, topologically associating domains and compartments. Through the analysis of DNA damage and excision repair maps, we uncover a correlation between genome folding, gene regulation, damage formation probability, and repair efficacy. We show that adaptive reorganization of the 3D genome is a key mediator of the damage response, providing new insights into the complex interplay of genomic structure and cellular defense mechanisms against UV-induced damage, thereby advancing our understanding of cellular resilience.
SCAN1 mutant TDP1 blocks the repair of DSB induced by TOP1 activity during gene transcription and promotes genome reorganisations and cell death in quiescent cells
Authors: Rubio-Contreras Diana , Hidalgo-García Daniel , Angulo-Jiménez Carmen , Granado-Calle Esperanza , Sabio-Bonilla Margarita , Ruiz Jose F. , Gómez-Herreros Fernando 
Published: May 2024

AbstractDNA single-strand breaks (SSBs) are the most common type of DNA damage in quiescent cells, and defects in their repair can lead to hereditary neurological syndromes. A potential endogenous source of SSBs with pathogenic potential is the abortive activity of DNA topoisomerase 1 (TOP1) during transcription. Spinocerebellar ataxia with axonal neuropathy type 1 (SCAN1), is caused by the homozygous mutation H493R in the gene encoding tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (TDP1), an enzyme that initiates the repair of TOP1-induced SSBs by unlinking the TOP1 peptide from the break end. Notably, transcription-associated TOP1-induced SSBs can be converted into DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) in quiescent cells, with TDP1 also initiating the repair of these breaks. However, the role of TOP1-induced DSBs in the pathology of SCAN1 remains unclear. In this study, we have addressed the impact that SCAN1/H493R mutation, has in the repair of TOP1-induced DSB in quiescent cells. Here we demonstrate that while TDP1 deficiency delays the repair of these breaks, TDP1H493Rcompletely blocks it. This blockage is accompanied by prolonged covalent trapping of TDP1H493Rto DNA and results in genome instability and increased cell death in quiescent cells. We also demonstrate that tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 2 (TDP2) can backup TDP1 loss but not SCAN1 TDP1H493Rmutation. Intriguingly, we also unveil that a mutation in catalytic H263 results in a negative dominant effect on TOP1-induced DSB repair. Collectively, our data provide novel insights into the molecular etiology of SCAN1 and support the potential of TOP1-induced DSBs as a main contributor to hereditary neurological syndromes.
Sensor-free motion registration and automated movement evaluation: Leveraging machine learning for clinical gait analysis in ataxia disorders
Authors: Wegner Philipp , Grobe-Einsler Marcus , Reimer Lara , Kahl Fabian , Koyak Berkan , Elter Tim , Lange Alexander , Kimmich Okka , Soub Daniel , Hufschmidt Felix , Bernsen Sarah , Ferreira Mónica , Klockgether Thomas , Faber Jennifer 
Published: May 2024

AbstractGait disturbances are the clinical hallmark of ataxia disorders, fundamentally impairing the mobility of ataxia patients. In clinical routine and research the severity of the gait disturbances is assessed within a well-established clinical scale and graded into categorial levels. Sensor-free motion registration and subsequent movement analysis allowed to overcome the obvious shortcoming of such coarse grading: Using time series models (tsfresh, ROCKET) we were not only able to successfully reproduce the categorial scaling (Human performance: 44.88%F1-score; our model: 80.28%F1-score). Particularly subtle, early gait disturbances and longitudinal progression below the perception threshold of the human examiner could be captured (Pearson’s correlation coefficient human performance -0.060, not significant; our model: -0.626,p< 0.01). Furthermore, SHAP analysis allowed to identify the most important features for each clinical level of gait deterioration. This could further improve the sensitivity to capture longitudinal changes tailored to the pre-existing level of gait disturbances (Pearson’s correlation coefficients up to -0.988,p< 0.01). In conclusion, the ML-based analysis could significantly improve the sensitivity in the assessment of gait disturbances in ataxia patients. Thus, it qualifies as a potential digital outcome parameter for early interventions, therapy monitoring, and home recordings.
Functional brain connectivity predictors of prospective substance use initiation and their environmental correlates
Authors: Kardan Omid , Weigard Alexander , Cope Lora , Martz Meghan , Angstadt Mike , McCurry Katherine L. , Michael Cleanthis , Hardee Jillian , Hyde Luke W. , Sripada Chandra , Heitzeg Mary M. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundEarly substance use initiation (SUI) places youth at substantially higher risk for later substance use disorders. Furthermore, adolescence is a critical period for the maturation of brain networks, the pace and magnitude of which are susceptible to environmental influences and may shape risk for SUI.MethodsWe examined whether patterns of functional brain connectivity during rest (rsFC), measured longitudinally in pre- and-early adolescence, can predict future SUI. In an independent sub-sample, we also tested whether these patterns are associated with key environmental factors, specifically neighborhood pollution and socioeconomic dimensions. We utilized data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study®. SUI was defined as first-time use of at least one full dose of alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, or other drugs. We created a control group (N= 228) of participants without SUI who were matched with the SUI group (N= 233) on age, sex, race/ethnicity, and parental income and education.ResultsMultivariate analysis showed that whole-brain rsFC prior to SUI during 9-10 and 11-12 years of age successfully differentiated the prospective SUI and control groups. This rsFC signature was expressed more at older ages in both groups, suggesting a pattern of accelerated maturation in the SUI group in the years prior to SUI. In an independent sub-sample (N= 2,854) and adjusted for family socioeconomic factors, expression of this rsFC pattern was associated with higher pollution, but not neighborhood disadvantage.ConclusionBrain functional connectivity patterns in early adolescence that are linked to accelerated maturation and environmental exposures can predict future SUI in youth.
Quantifying life-expectancy Losses and Gains over 31 years (1990-2021): A population-level study on West African Countries
Authors: Kitara David Lagoro , abboud Joelle Abi , Nantale Ritah , Lassale Camille , Olal Emmanuel , Bamba Gaye 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundLife expectancy at birth (LE0) is one of the most widely used indicators for determining the overall development of a country. Worldwide, LE0has increased over the last ten years in most countries. This parameter is essential for developing countries as they strive to achieve socio-economic progress by investing significantly in social sectors like social services and safety nets. LE0among West African countries has consistently been the lowest in African regions, which calls for more research. This study aimed to quantify LE0losses and gains by sex in West African countries from 1990 to 2021. We hypothesize that lower life expectancy rates in the West African countries were likely due to poorer socioeconomic indicators than in other African regions.MethodsLife tables by sex and country were calculated for sixteen (16) West African countries from 1990 to 2021. LE0for 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2020 were contextualized alongside recent trends between the two sexes and country. We used decomposition techniques to examine which sex and country contributed to gains and losses in LE0between 1990 and 2021. RStudio software was used to calculate differences in LE0from one year to another. In addition, linear regression, life disparity, and the Gini coefficient were used to trace the evolution of LE0in the last three decades in West Africa.ResultsThere were LE0gains from 1990 to 2021 in all sixteen West African countries (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo). The highest LE0gains between 1990 and 2021 were observed in Guinea-Bissau among males (28.32 years), followed by females in Niger (20.41 years), followed by males in Mauritania (18.91 years), and females in Liberia (18.13 years). The least LE0gains were observed in males in Mali (4.48 years). Most West African countries achieved the highest LE in 2019 (14/16, 75.0%), except for Cape Verde in 2017 (5.28), and Togo in 2021 (0.94).ConclusionAlthough most West African countries posted progressive LE0gains from 1990 to 2021, there were LE0losses in 2020 and 2021 when the COVID-19 pandemic emerged. The West African region has the lowest LE0of all African regions probably due to lower socio-economic indicators compared to all other African regions. Also, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, there were LE0losses in all West African countries, except Togo. In addition, LE0gaps between males and females were highest in the late 1990s and least during the late 2000s. Even though several studies reported that morbidity and mortality rates of COVID-19 were lower in Africa than in the rest of the world, a more comprehensive study is warranted to assess the actual impact of COVID-19 on West African countries.
Mpox virus (MPXV) vertical transmission and fetal demise in a pregnant rhesus macaque model
Authors: Krabbe Nicholas P. , Mitzey Ann M. , Bhattacharya Saswati , Razo Elaina R. , Zeng Xiankun , Bekiares Nell , Moy Amy , Kamholz Amy , Karl Julie A. , Daggett Gregory , VanSleet Grace , Morgan Terry , Capuano Saverio V. , Simmons Heather A. , Basu Puja , Weiler Andrea M. , O’Connor David H. , Friedrich Thomas C. , Golos Thaddeus G. , Mohr Emma L. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractInfection with clade I Mpox virus (MPXV) results in adverse pregnancy outcomes, yet the potential for vertical transmission resulting in fetal harm with clade IIb MPXV, the clade that is currently circulating in the Western Hemisphere, remains unknown. We established a rhesus macaque model of vertical MPXV transmission with early gestation inoculation. Three pregnant rhesus macaques were inoculated intradermally with 1.5 × 10^5 plaque forming units (PFU) of clade IIb MPXV near gestational day (GD) 30 and animals were monitored for viremia and maternal and fetal well-being. Animals were euthanized to collect tissues at 5, 14, or 25 days post-inoculation (dpi). Tissues were evaluated for viral DNA (vDNA) loads, infectious virus titers, histopathology, MPXV mRNA and protein localization, as well as MPXV protein co-localization with placental cells including, Hofbauer cells, mesenchymal stromal cells, endothelial cells, and trophoblasts. vDNA was detected in maternal blood and skin lesions by 5 dpi. Lack of fetal heartbeat was observed at 14 or 25 dpi for two dams indicating fetal demise; the third dam developed significant vaginal bleeding at 5 dpi and was deemed an impending miscarriage. vDNA was detected in placental and fetal tissue in both fetal demise cases. MPXV localized to placental villi by ISH and IHC. Clade IIb MPXV infection in pregnant rhesus macaques results in vertical transmission to the fetus and adverse pregnancy outcomes, like clade I MPXV. Further studies are needed to determine whether antiviral therapy with tecovirimat will prevent vertical transmission and improve pregnancy outcomes.One Sentence SummaryClade IIb Mpox virus infection of pregnant rhesus macaques results in vertical transmission from mother to fetus and adverse pregnancy outcomes.