bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hypofractionated Radiotherapy for Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gonzalez Lorein , Rubens Muni , Yarlagadda Sreenija , Rabinowits Guilherme , Kalman Noah S. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose/Objective(s): Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) radiation treatment has historically involved standard 1.8-2 Gy fractions treated daily over 4-6 weeks. Hypofractionated treatment regimens have demonstrated tumor control and toxicity equivalence to standard fractionation regimens for common cutaneous malignancies such as basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. Herein we report the outcomes of hypofractionated versus standard fractionation radiotherapy for MCC at our institution.
Materials/Methods: The study involved a retrospective review of 29 treatment courses for MCC. Treatment characteristics and patient outcomes were analyzed. Subsequent patient outcomes, including acute toxicities, as well as recurrence and survival results, were collected. The cumulative incidence of local and distant failures was estimated, with death as a competing risk.
Results: A total of 24 patients were included, of which 13 received standard fractionation with curative intent, 10 received hypofractionated radiotherapy with curative intent, and 6 received single fraction (8 Gy) palliative radiation. Half the patients were treated to a head/neck site. A subset of patients treated adjuvantly with curative intent included 8 standard fractionation and 8 hypofractionated radiotherapy patients. No statistically significant differences in local and/or distant failure or overall survival was observed between the patient groups.
Conclusion: Hypofractionated radiotherapy for MCC was associated with similar treatment outcomes relative to standard fractionation. In our limited patient sample, hypofractionated radiation treatment achieved similar results with similar toxicity and fewer treatments. Further analysis of a larger patient population with longer follow up is needed to confirm treatment tolerability and efficacy.
Fine-mapping and validation of Gpc-5B as the locus responsible for increases in the grain protein content, grain size, and spike density in common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Li Qingcheng , Li Yang , Zhu Jing , Guo Zhenru , Chen Shenglong , Tan Min , Fan Yazhen , Li Rui , Gao Ting , Kong Li , Chen Zhongxu , Jiang Yunfeng , Chen Guoyue , Jiang Qiantao , Zhang Yazhou , Xu Qiang , Wei Yuming , Ma Jian , Zheng Youliang , Chen Qing , (Qi) 鹏飞 (Peng-Fei) 祁 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Grain protein content (GPC), grain size, and spike morphology are important traits for common wheat (Triticum aestivum) breeding. However, few genes positively regulating these three traits have been reported. In this study, the gene responsible for increases in GPC, grain size, and spike density in the mutant S-Cp2 were mapped and cloned. This mutant was obtained by treating the common wheat cultivar ‘Shumai482’ with ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS). According to a genetic analysis, the increases in GPC and grain size and the formation of compact spikes in S-Cp2 were controlled by a single dominant locus (Gpc-5B) on chromosome 5BL. This locus was mapped to an 87.24 kb interval between markers KASP-58070 and KASP-58158, wherein 5Bq (homologous to Q on chromosome 5AL) was detected. One missense mutation (G-to-A) was detected within the microRNA172-binding site of 5Bq in S-Cp2 (i.e., 5BQ4 allele), suggesting that 5Bq is responsible for the mutant phenotype. This was confirmed by cloning 5Bq in revertants obtained by treating S-Cp2 with EMS. As expected, 5BQ4 in S-Cp2 was significantly more highly transcribed than 5Bq in ‘Shumai482’. Notably, 5Bq was positively selected during breeding. The study findings reflect the value of 5Bq for breeding novel wheat varieties.
Trends and Outcomes of Heart Failure Hospitalizations during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Rubens Muni , Ramamoorthy Venkataraghavan , Saxena Anshul , Khosla Atulya Aman , Doke Mayur , McGranaghan Peter , Appunni Sandeep , Zhang Yanjia , Körfer Daniel , Chaparro Sandra , Jimenez Javier 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
COVID-19 has affected many hospitalizations. In this study, we intended to understand the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on heart failure hospitalizations in the state of California.
Method
This study was a retrospective analysis of California State Inpatient Database during March to December of 2019 and 2020. Adult hospitalizations with heart failure were included for the analysis. Main outcome variables were in-hospital mortality, mechanical ventilation, mechanical circulatory support, vasopressor use, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
Results
There were 450,771 (53.7%) heart failure hospitalizations during March to December of 2019, compared to 388,795 (46.3%) during March to December of 2020 (relative decrease, 13.7%). Heart failure hospitalization rates were lower during 2020, compared to 2019. Comparison of adverse hospital outcomes across the two-time frames showed that in-hospital mortality (2.9% versus 2.7%, P = 0.003), mechanical circulatory support (0.7% versus 0.5%. P < 0.001), vasopressor use (1.3% versus 1.0%, P < 0.001), and ARDS (0.1% versus 0.06%, P = 0.007) were significantly higher among hospitalizations in 2020. Regression analysis showed that the odds of in-hospital mortality (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.06–1.11), mechanical ventilation (OR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.05–1.09), vasopressor use (OR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.04–1.10), and ARDS (OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.58–1.91) were significantly higher among heart failure hospitalizations in 2020.
Conclusions
Our study found that patients with heart failure hospitalized during the COVID-19 pandemic had greater in-hospital adverse events such as greater in-hospital mortality, mechanical ventilation use, vasopressor use, and ARDS. These findings warrant that heart failure required prompt hospitalization and treatment irrespective of restrictive mandates during COVID-19 pandemic.
Endoscopic indicators in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis undergoing duodenal resections – a nationwide Danish cohort study with long-term follow-up
Authors: Karstensen John Gásdal , Wewer Mads , Bülow Steffen , Hansen Thmas Van Overreem , Højen Helle , Jelsig Anne Marie , Kuhlmann Tine Plato , Burisch Johan , Pommergaard Hans Christian 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) predisposes individuals to duodenal adenomas. This study describes the histopathological features of endoscopic and surgical specimens from the duodenum, as well as genotype-phenotype associations.
Methods
All known FAP patients were included from the Danish Polyposis Register. FAP patients were defined as having more than 100 cumulative colorectal adenomas and/or having a known germline pathogenic variant in the APC gene. Endoscopic procedures, histopathology, and genetics were evaluated.
Results
Of 500 FAP patients, 70.6% underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) at least once. Of these, 59.2% presented with detectable duodenal adenomas. The most severe morphology was tubular in 62.7% patients, tubulovillous in 25.4%, and villous in 12.0%, while the most severe dysplasia was low-grade in 67.5% patients, high-grade in 25.4%, and 6.7% had adenocarcinoma. Seventeen of 500 patients (3.4%) developed duodenal adenocarcinoma, of which 47% were advanced at diagnosis. In 6.2% of FAP patients, duodenal resection was recommended, including 29% with duodenal adenocarcinoma. The risk of duodenal surgery was 1.31 per 1,000 person-years (median age: 53 years). The predominant reason for surgery was extensive polyposis (67.7%). Of the patients who underwent duodenal resection, a median of six (IQR: 4–8) EGDs were performed within five years prior to surgery, but 67.6% and 83.9% never underwent a duodenal polypectomy or endoscopic mucosa resection, respectively. Genetic evaluations revealed various pathogenic variants in the APC gene, with no strong genotype-phenotype association.
Conclusions
The prevalence of duodenal adenomas and cancer in FAP warrants vigilant endoscopic surveillance. Nevertheless, the need for duodenal surgery persists. Future studies should evaluate whether invasive endoscopy can reduce the need for duodenal resections.
“I was scared of the operation:” Qualitative study exploring the perceptions and experiences of women referred following obstetric complications in a Regional Referral Hospital in Eastern Uganda
Authors: Keem Richard , Nabirye Rose Chalo , Mukunya David , Wandabwa Julius N , Powers Madeline , Epuitai Joshua 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Women who are referred following emergency obstetric complications tend to experience several challenges while accessing obstetric care. This study was conducted to explore the perceptions and experiences of women who were referred following emergency obstetric complications in Eastern Uganda.
Methods and materials
We conducted 17 in-depth interviews with postpartum mothers who were referred to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH). We explored the experiences and perceptions of women regarding the referral system, including their response to being referred, what they liked and disliked about being referred, and the challenges that they faced during referral. The study received ethical clearance and used thematic data analysis.
Results
We derived five themes from the data: 1) the facilitators of referral, 2) the challenges of reaching the referral site, 3) the quality of care in the referring facilities, 4) good quality of care in the referral facility, and 5) response to referral and appraisal of the referral system. An early decision to refer, informing the receiving facilities of the incoming referrals, and accompanying the woman to the referral site facilitated the referral of women. Women faced difficulty reaching the referral site because of financial constraints, poor roads, long distances, multiple referrals, and the use of inappropriate means of transport. Women experienced poor quality of care in the form of abuse and disrespectful maternity care, shortage of medicines and supplies, and unavailability of essential services in the referring facilities. Care in the receiving facility was perceived to be of good quality related to warm reception, immediate care on arrival, availability of services, and respectful and responsive healthcare providers. Response to being referred varied from being fearful, and anxious to reluctance and willingness to comply with referral advice. Overall, women positively appraised the referral system.
Conclusions
Women experienced challenges with referral systems related to inadequate staffing, poor quality of care, shortage of medicines and services, and difficulty reaching the referral site. Experiences and perceptions shaped how women responded to and appraised the referral system. Strengthening the quality of care in the referring facilities is critical in reducing unnecessary referrals and promoting positive birth outcomes.
Evaluation of the hinotori TM Surgical Robot System for accurate suturing in small cavities
Authors: Kameoka Yasuyuki , Okata Yuichi , Yoshimura Shohei , Inuzuka Shino , Iwabuchi Serena , Miyauchi Harunori , Nakatani Taichi , Tomioka Yuichiro , Takanarita Yuki , Bitoh Yuko 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The hinotori™ Surgical Robot System (hinotori™, Medicaroid, Kobe, Japan) is increasingly being utilized primarily in urology and adult surgery; however, data on its application in pediatric surgery are lacking. This preclinical study aimed to evaluate the limitations of this system for accurate suturing in small cavities, designed for pediatric and neonatal applications. Two trained operators performed simple ligature sutures (easy task [ET]) and hepaticojejunostomy sutures (difficult task [DT]) within five differently sized boxes, ranging from 5123 mL to 125 mL. The suture time, number of internal and external instrument/instrument collisions, instrument/box collisions, and suture accuracy were evaluated. The suture accuracy was assessed using the A-Lap Mini endoscopic surgery skill assessment system. As a result, an increase in the number of collisions and extended suturing times were observed in boxes with volumes smaller than 215 mL. Despite these variations, there were no significant differences between the boxes, and all tasks were precisely performed in all boxes (p = 0.10 for the ET and 1.00 for the DT). These findings demonstrate the capability of the hinotori™ system to perform precise suturing techniques within tightly confined simulated neonatal cavities as small as 125 mL. To advance the integration of pediatric robotic surgery utilizing the hinotori™ system, additional trials comparing it with conventional laparoscopic and thoracoscopic techniques using pediatric and animal models are necessary, to assess its clinical safety and applicability.
Influence of salt precipitation on reservoir quality Case of Upper Triassic formation - Toual field (SE Algeria)
Authors: Mazouz El Hadi , Brahim El Hadj Youcef , Kouider Kamel , Belhouchet Houssem Eddine , Benzagouta Mohammed Said 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Toual field is located in the Triassic Province belonging to the Southeastern Saharan platform of Algeria. TAGS reservoir is the French abbreviation of the Upper Triassic Shaley Sandstone Formation. In Toual field, the lower part of TAGS reservoir is deposited in a fluvial environment, while, its upper part is typical of a shallow marine sabkha environment. TAGS is surmounted by a thin clayey Liassic Formation (about 30 m) and a very thick salty Liassic formation (above than 300 m). To predict the effect of halite on TAGS sandstones porosity and permeability we combined some conventional well log measurements (GR, DT, RHOB) in multi-dimensional cross-plots. We also took advantage of recorded unconventional well logs (Pulsed neutron decay time logs and Pressure test logs) and core lab measurements (PHIcore, Kcore and RHOcore). The analysis of the above logs and core data indicates that petrophysical properties of the upper part of TAGS reservoir are considerably affected by halite presence in sandstone as cement filling pores. The presence of similar deposits has been found harmful regarding the reservoir quality. Thus, one of our main targets in that investigation is to find out about the main source of the halite type responsible in the control of reservoir petrophysical characteristics in the TAGS reservoir. Finally we proposed possible sources of halite that exist in the investigated sandstones.
Increased matrix stiffness in pituitary neuroendocrine tumors invading the cavernous sinus is activated by CAFs through the mTOR pathway
Authors: Xie Tao , Gao Yang , Hu Jiamin , Luo Rongkui , Guo Yinglong , Xie Qiang , Yan Chaolong , Tang Yifan , Chen Pin , Yang Zijiang , Yu Qinqin , Hu Fan , Zhang Xiaobiao 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) with invasion of the cavernous sinus (CS) are particularly challenging to treat. Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are recognized for their pivotal role in reprogramming extracellular matrix (ECM). Herein, we aimed to explore the potential involvement of CAFs in ECM reprogramming and elucidate the underlying mechanism involved.
Methods
We applied dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) to measure tumor vessel permeability and applied atomic force microscopy (AFM) to measure the matrix stiffness of PitNETs located in both CS and saddle area (SDL). Western blotting, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and quantitative RT-PCR were utilized to analyze the ECM components. Proteomic biochemical analysis was utilized to uncover potential mechanisms governing ECM dynamics.
Results
We found that PitNETs in the CS were stiffer than those in the SDL. Increased ECM stiffness within the CS facilitated the acquisition of stem-like properties, enhanced proliferation, and induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Furthermore, the expression levels of lysyl oxidase (LOX), matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2) and MMP9 in pituitary adenoma cells increased in the stiffer matrix. Proteomic analysis suggested a potential role for CAFs in ECM reprogramming, which was validated in tumor tissues and primary CAFs from pituitary adenomas in both the CS and SDL. Importantly, the stiffer ECM environment promoted the progression of PitNETs via the mTOR pathway.
Conclusion
These findings demonstrated the significant contribution of activated CAFs to the stiffening of matrix. Therefore, targeting the mTOR pathway to alter mechanical properties emerges as a promising approach to enhance treatment efficacy.
Osteoarthritis and autoimmune thyroid disease: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhao Zhihui , Zhao Yingjian , Wang Yongqing , Xue Hongbo , Du Junji , Cui Hongbin 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Objective:
Previous epidemiological observational researches have suggested a potential connection between autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) and osteoarthritis (OA); however, the results are inconclusive. It remains unclear whether the association between AITD and OA is causal. This Mendelian randomization (MR) study was conducted to specifically explore whether there is a genetic causal link between OA and AITD disease.
Methods:
Derived from a comprehensive genome-wide association study involving individuals of European descent, our study carefully chose specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as instrumental variables for two distinct forms of KOA and HOA. We evaluated two types of AITD: autoimmune hypothyroidism and autoimmune hyperthyroidism. MR Egger, Weighted median, Simple mode, Weighted mode and Inverse Variance Weighting (IVW) were used in our study to estimate whether there was a genetic level of causality between AITD and OA, and the IVW method prevailed in the assessment. Additionally, we conducted tests for heterogeneity and sensitivity to ensure the robustness of our findings.
Results:
IVW analysis revealed a significant impact of autoimmune hyperthyroidism on the incidence of KOA. (OR: 1.0512; 95% CI: 1.0197–1.0836, P = 0.001285396). Other results had a P-value > 0.05, showing all negative.
Conclusions
Our findings indicated a genetic causal association between autoimmune hyperthyroidism and the risk of KOA, despite observational studies reporting an association between autoimmune hypothyroidism and OA and provided new insight into the treatment strategies for OA and AITD.
Promoting On-Farm Tree and Shrub Management: Strategies for Biodiversity and Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Tiruneh Zeleke Asaye , Jilo Bonsa Fentale , Komicha Desta Negeyo , Fida Gemeda Terfassa 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The study was conducted in four districts of East Shewa Zone of Ethiopia to assess woody species diversity in different land use types. A total of 54 croplands, 72 homegardens, 36 grasslands, 36 shrubland and 12 wetlands were inventoried in 18 Kebeles. The results showed that the highest species richness was found in homegarden (26), followed by cropland (18), forest cover (14), shrub cover (13), grazing land (13), and wetland (5) species. The Shannon diversity index (H') ranged from 1.02 to 2.25, with the highest value in cropland (2.25) and the lowest value in wetland (1.02). The evenness index (J') ranged from 0.63 to 0.82, with the highest value in cropland (0.82) and the lowest value in wetland (0.63). The study concluded that different land use types have different woody species diversity and carbon storage potential. Forest cover has the highest woody species diversity and carbon storage potential, followed by homegarden, shrub cover, wetland, grazing land, and cropland. The study findings suggest that there is a significant opportunity to enhance carbon sequestration in the East Shoa Zones of Ethiopia by planting and managing woody species. This could be done through a variety of programs and initiatives, such as agroforestry, community forestry, and watershed management.
Investigating the rheological behavior of Poloxamer-chitosan thermogel for in situ drug delivery of doxorubicin in breast cancer treatment: designed by response surface method (RSM)
Authors: Mehrazin Mehdi , Asefnejad Azadeh , Naeimi Farid , Khonakdar Hossein Ali 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This research investigates rheological behavior of Poloxamer-chitosan thermogel system for the release of doxorubicin, which is a chemotherapy agent. In order to design the experiment, the response surface method (RSM) was used to optimize the formula and investigate the mutual effects of the variables on the rheological properties of the system. In this xperimental design, Poloxamer as a thermogel matrix (15-20%) and chitosan biopolymer as an additive (0.1-0.3%) were used and the pH of the test environment was determined in the range of 2.5-7.5. The results showed that the rheological behavior of Poloxamer-chitosan combination has the best fit according to the Hershal-bulkey model with a correlation coefficient of 100%. Also, adding chitosan to Poloxamer decreased the gelation temperature and gelation time. The results showed that the concentration of Poloxamer and chitosan as well as system temperature have a significant effect on the rheological behavior of thermogel. The optimized formula showed favorable rheological properties including high viscosity and appropriate degradation rate. The study showed the sustained release of the drug in the in-vitro environment of the thermogel system during 144h. Therefore, the design of Poloxamer-chitosan thermogel system has the potential to be used as an in-situ drug delivery system for doxorubicin.
Tomato Leaf Disease Classification Based on Feature Enhancement and SDE-ResNet50
Authors: Wu Jinyi , Dong Jiaxin , Chen Shengwei , Wang Jie , He Xin 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Plant leaf diseases constitute substantial issues in agriculture. The tomato, being one of the world's most vital crops, incur enormous economic losses for farmers and impair the healthy development of the tomato sector when impacted by illnesses. Therefore, accurate detection and classification of tomato leaf diseases have become crucial. In recent years, more and more academics have begun to use deep learning approaches in the field of plant disease identification and have produced good results. However, these approaches still have limited accuracy in situations with complicated backdrops or multiple interferences and are not lightweight enough, with significant requirements on computational resources. The present study proposes an improved network model for the purpose of recognizing tomato leaf diseases. Based on the original ResNet50 model, a novel network model, SDE-ResNet50, was constructed by adding an Efficient Channel Attention（ECA）module, depth-wise separable convolutions and modifications to the stem structure. The experimental findings indicate that the SDE-ResNet50 attained a classification accuracy of 98% in the identification of tomato leaf diseases, hence outperforming ResNet50 by a margin of 5.6%. Furthermore, the SDE-ResNet50 demonstrates a decrease in size of about 47.73% and a reduction in computational complexity of roughly 70.28% when compared to the ResNet50 model. The SDE-ResNet50 was evaluated against current widely-used classification networks using an identical dataset of tomato leaf diseases, and it exhibited greater performance. The present discovery provides evidence of the efficacy and viability of the proposed enhancement to the model as outlined in this research article.