bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Phantom and clinical evaluation of the Bayesian penalised likelihood reconstruction algorithm Q.Clear without PSF correction in amyloid PET images
Authors: Wagatsuma Kei , Sakata Muneyuki , Miwa Kenta , Hamano Yumi , Kawakami Hirofumi , Kamitaka Yuto , Yamao Tensho , Miyaji Noriaki , Ishibashi Kenji , Tago Tetsuro , Toyohara Jun , Ishii Kenji 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Bayesian penalised likelihood (BPL) reconstruction, which incorporates point-spread-function (PSF) correction, provides higher signal-to-noise ratios and more accurate quantitation than conventional ordered subset expectation maximization (OSEM) reconstruction. However, applying PSF correction to brain PET imaging is controversial due to Gibbs artefacts that manifest as unpredicted cortical uptake enhancement. The present study aimed to validate whether BPL without PSF would be useful for amyloid PET imaging.

Methods
Images were acquired from Hoffman 3D brain and cylindrical phantoms for phantom study and 71 patients administered with [18F]flutemetamol in clinical study using a Discovery MI. All images were reconstructed using OSEM, BPL with PSF correction, and BPL without PSF correction. Count profile, %contrast, recovery coefficients (RCs), and image noise were calculated from the images acquired from the phantoms. Amyloid β deposition in patients was visually assessed by two physicians and quantified based on the standardised uptake value ratio (SUVR).

Results
The overestimated radioactivity in profile curves was eliminated using BPL without PSF correction. The %contrast and image noise decreased with increasing β values in phantom images. Image quality and RCs were better using BPL with, than without PSF correction or OSEM. An optimal β value of 600 was determined for BPL without PSF correction. Visual evaluation almost agreed perfectly (κ = 0.91–0.97), without depending on reconstruction methods. Composite SUVRs did not significantly differ between reconstruction methods.

Conclusion
Gibbs artefacts disappeared from phantom images using the BPL without PSF correction. Visual and quantitative evaluation of [18F]flutemetamol imaging was independent of the reconstruction method. The BPL without PSF correction could be the standard reconstruction method for amyloid PET imaging, despite being qualitatively inferior to BPL with PSF correction for [18F]flutemetamol amyloid PET imaging.
Noncoding RNAs in skeletal development and disorders
Authors: Yao Qing , He Tailin , Liao Jian-You , Liao Rongdong , Wu Xiaohao , Lin Lijun , Xiao Guozhi 
Published: April 2024

AbstractProtein-encoding genes only constitute less than 2% of total human genomic sequences, and 98% of genetic information was previously referred to as “junk DNA”. Meanwhile, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) consist of approximately 60% of the transcriptional output of human cells. Thousands of ncRNAs have been identified in recent decades, and their essential roles in the regulation of gene expression in diverse cellular pathways associated with fundamental cell processes, including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and metabolism, have been extensively investigated. Furthermore, the gene regulation networks they form modulate gene expression in normal development and under pathological conditions. In this review, we integrate current information about the classification, biogenesis, and function of ncRNAs and how these ncRNAs support skeletal development through their regulation of critical genes and signaling pathways in vivo. We also summarize the updated knowledge of ncRNAs involved in common skeletal diseases and disorders, including but not limited to osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, scoliosis, and intervertebral disc degeneration, by highlighting their roles established from in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo studies.
Spontaneous clearance of serum HCV-RNA after splenectomy in a patient with HCV-related liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension: a case report
Authors: Ogata Toshiro , Sakai Terufumi , Shibata Sho , Kanno Hiroki , Nakane Hiroyuki , Aoyagi Takeshi , Koikawa Kazuhiro , Sadakari Yoshihiko , Hirokata Gentaro , Taniguchi Masahiko 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Spontaneous clearance of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) is rare in adults. A T-lymphocyte response is thought to be involved in HCV-RNA clearance. Splenectomy reportedly has a beneficial effect on T cell immune function in patients with cirrhosis. To the best of our knowledge, the present report is the first to describe spontaneous clearance of serum HCV-RNA within 1 year after splenectomy in a patient with cirrhosis.

Case presentation
A 55-year-old man with HCV cirrhosis was transferred to our institution with advanced pancytopenia, splenomegaly, and gastric varices. He had a 1-year history of ascites, edema, and general fatigue. The patient had a Child–Pugh score of 8 and serological type 1 HCV; the HCV-RNA level was 4.7 log IU/mL. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed gastric varices and marked splenomegaly (estimated spleen volume of 2175 mL). Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed enlarged gastric varices with no red color sign, and the varices were larger than those 1 year prior. He was diagnosed with decompensated HCV-related liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension. We considered direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy; however, DAA therapy was not approved in Japan for patients with decompensated cirrhosis at that time. Hand-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy was performed to improve the worsening portal hypertension. Further, we planned the initiation of DAA therapy after surgery, when such therapy would become available. DAA therapy was approved 1 year after splenectomy. At that time, we measured the HCV-RNA level before the initiation of DAA therapy; unexpectedly, however, serum HCV-RNA was not detectable, and the virus continued to disappear during the following 4 years. His liver function (total bilirubin, albumin, and prothrombin time) and pancytopenia improved during the 5 years postoperatively. The serum aspartate and alanine aminotransferase levels normalized between 1 and 5 years postoperatively. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed no change in the gastric varices during the 5 years after surgery. The patient remained asymptomatic and continued to do well.

Conclusions
We have presented a case of spontaneous clearance of HCV-RNA after splenectomy in a patient with cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Splenectomy may be associated with disappearance of HCV-RNA based on previous reports. More cases should be accumulated and evaluated.
The effect of maternal undernutrition on adverse obstetric outcomes among women who attend antenatal care in Gedeo zone public hospitals, cohort study design
Authors: Figa Zerihun , Temesgen Tesfaye , Mahamed Abbas Ahmed , Bekele Etaferahu 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Undernutrition refers to an overall deficiency of nutrients due to an inadequate intake of a well-balanced diet. Undernourishment during pregnancy is an important contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality. It remains a persistent problem in developing countries, where women usually fall behind men in having access to food, health care, and education. Despite the high prevalence of maternal undernourishment, its direct impact on obstetric outcomes has not been studied in developing countries, including Ethiopia.

Objective
This study aimed to assess the effect of maternal undernutrition on adverse obstetric outcomes in Gedeo zone public hospitals.

Method
A cohort study design was employed in Gedeo zone public hospitals from June 30, 2022, to February 28, 2023. This study included 721 pregnant women, 237 were exposed group whereas 484 were non-exposed. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select a non-exposed group and the exposed group was selected consecutively. Both groups were followed for 7 months, from 16 weeks of gestation to 24 h of delivery. The pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire and checklist were used. EpiData 4.4.1.2.version was used for data entry and analyzed using Stata version 16 software. A modified Poisson regression model with robust standard errors was used to determine relative risk, and the statistical association was declared at a p-value ≤ 0.05. Finally, the findings were reported in figures, tables, and words.

Result
The incidence of adverse obstetrics outcomes among undernourished and normally nourished mothers was hypertensive disorder during pregnancy (HDDP) (7.49% vs. 3.19%), antepartum haemorrhage (7.49% vs. 3.19%), obstructed labor (1.53% vs. 3.49%), premature rupture of the membrane (2.5% vs. 3.33%), preterm labor (6.52% vs. 6.93%), instrumental vaginal delivery (1.8% vs. 4.3%), postpartum haemorrhage (5.95% vs. 3.88%), and sepsis (3.74% vs. 1.94%). The risk of adverse obstetric outcomes among undernourished women was hypertensive disorder during pregnancy (HDDP) (aRR) = 4.07, 95%CI: 2.53–6.55), antepartum haemorrhage (APH) (aRR = 5.0, 95% CI: 2.08–12.72), preterm labor (aRR = 1.8, 95%CI: 1.23–2.62), operative delivery (aRR = 1.24, 95%C: 0.87–1.78), postpartum haemorrhage (aRR = 3.02, 95%CI: 1.91–4.79), and sepsis/chrioaminitis (aRR = 3.55, 95%CI: 1.83–6.89) times higher than normally nourished women.

Conclusion
The incidence rates of hypertensive disorder during pregnancy (HDDP), antepartum haemorrhage, postpartum haemorrhage, and sepsis were higher among undernourished women than normally nourished women. Undernourished women during pregnancy have an increased risk of adverse obstetrics outcomes including hypertensive disorder during pregnancy, antepartum, preterm labor, operative delivery, postpartum haemorrhage, and sepsis/chorioamnionitis.
De-migranticizing as methodology: rethinking migration studies through immobility and liminality
Authors: Raghuram Parvati , Breines Markus Roos , Gunter Ashley 
Published: April 2024

AbstractDe-migranticization is becoming a core strategy for overcoming the fetishization of migrants in migration studies. However, this shift in perspectives raises questions about what categories to use instead. This paper contributes to these debates by considering the potential of studying immobility as a tool for de-migranticization. It looks at immobility through the lens of liminality: as a transitory phase, as a transformative stage and as one which enables epistemological subversion. In doing so, it goes beyond other border spanning terms to offer methodological insights into using immobility and liminality to de-migranticize. The paper suggests that these qualities of reading immobility through theories of liminality has implications for when, where and how to study migration. The empirical case draws on 165 semi-structured interviews with distance education students from Zimbabwe, Namibia and Nigeria studying at the University of South Africa (UNISA).
Retrospective analysis on prognosis of oral cancer patients according to surgical approaches for effective cancer ablation: swing approach versus visor approach
Authors: Kim Yun-Ho , Yang Jae-Young , Lee Dong-Min , Lee Jae-Yeol , Hwang Dae-Seok , Ryu Mi-Heon , Kim Uk-Kyu 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundFor the surgical treatment of oral cancer, it is sometimes necessary to expand intraoral access within the oral cavity. The “swing approach” that involves lip splitting of the mandible and temporary mandibular osteotomy and the “visor approach” that does not split the lower lip and mandible are mainly used. This study analyzed postoperative outcomes such as complications, recurrence rate, and survival rate by these two approaches. The goal of this study is to evaluate the surgical outcomes of patients using these two approaches, to propose effective perioperative management for oral cancer surgery, and to compare the prognosis of oral cancer patients.Materials and methodsFrom 2005 to 2020, 29 patients who underwent surgery at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Pusan National University Dental Hospital for oral cancer lesions occurred in the mandible, floor of mouth, and tongue were selected for the study. Based on the surgical approach used, a chart review was conducted on various prognostic clinical factors such as the patients’ sex and age, primary site, TNM stage, histopathologic grade, recurrence and metastasis, postoperative survival rate, adjuvant chemo-radiation therapy, satisfaction with aesthetics/function/swallowing, length of hospital stay, tracheostomy and its duration, and neck dissection and its type. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 25.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL) through Fisher’s exactt-test.ResultThere was no statistically significant difference between two groups in terms of clinical and pathological findings, such as survival rate, the need for adjuvant therapies, and the local recurrence rate. Although better outcomes were observed in terms of function, aesthetics, and postoperative complications in the group with visor approach, there was still no statistically significant difference between two groups. However, the duration of hospital stay was shorter in the visor approach group.ConclusionThere was no statistically significant difference in clinical prognostic factors between the swing approach and the visor approach. Therefore, when choosing between the two approaches for the ablation of oral cancer, it is considered to select the surgical priority approach that can be easy access based on the size and location of the lesion. The visor approach had advantages of aesthetics and healing period.
Remimazolam-based total intravenous anesthesia in a patient with a confirmed diagnosis of malignant hyperthermia: a case report
Authors: Kondo Hiroshi , Mukaida Keiko , Sasai Kurumi , Nao Yukiko , Hashimoto Ken , Miyoshi Hirotsugu , Kanzaki Rieko , Tsutsumi Yasuo M. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a rare, life-threatening disorder of calcium homeostasis in skeletal muscle cells that is triggered by volatile anesthetics and succinylcholine, leading to a hypermetabolic reaction. The pathogenic ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1) gene variant is critical. Patients susceptible to MH should avoid triggering agents, and total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) is preferred. Remimazolam is safe in patients with suspected MH.

Case presentation
We present the first case of remimazolam treatment in a genetically confirmed patient with MH without MH development. A 72-year-old man with a family history of MH underwent remimazolam-based TIVA. After informed consent was obtained, a muscle biopsy and genetic testing were performed. Intraoperatively and postoperatively, the patient exhibited no signs of MH. An enhanced function of the RYR1 channel into releasing calcium was indicated, and the genetic testing revealed a pathogenic variant of RYR1.

Conclusions
Remimazolam-based TIVA is safe in patients confirming the diagnosis of MH.
Current advances in serological and molecular diagnosis of Schistosoma mekongi infection
Authors: Macalanda Adrian Miki C. , Wanlop Atcharaphan , Ona Kevin Austin L. , Galon Eloiza May S. , Khieu Virak , Sayasone Somphou , Yajima Aya , Angeles Jose Ma. M. , Kawazu Shin-ichiro 
Published: April 2024

AbstractSchistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease, caused by blood flukes belonging to the genus Schistosoma; it persists as a public health problem in selected regions throughout Africa, South America, and Asia. Schistosoma mekongi, a zoonotic schistosome species endemic to the Mekong River in Laos and Cambodia, is one of the significant causes of human schistosomiasis along with S. japonicum, S. mansoni, S. haematobium and S. intercalatum. Since its discovery, S. mekongi infection has been highly prevalent in communities along the Mekong River. Although surveillance and control measures have shown success in recent years, more robust diagnostic tools are still needed to establish more efficient control and prevention strategies to achieve and sustain an elimination status. Diagnosis of S. mekongi infection still relies on copro-parasitological techniques, commonly made by Kato-Katz stool examination. Serological techniques such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) may also be applicable but in a limited setting. Targeted molecular and serological tools specific to the species, on the other hand, have been limited. This is due, in part, to the limited research and studies on the molecular biology of S. mekongi since genome information of this species has not yet been released. In this review, current advances, and gaps and limitations in the molecular and immunological diagnosis of S. mekongi are discussed.
Navigating thrombotic terrain: unveiling a novel homocystinuria mutation associated with thrombophilia in a 16 year old
Authors: Tulasi Poojitha , Veeramachaneni Amulya , Kamble Niranjan , Rangaswamy Darshan Rajatadri 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Thrombophilia is characterised by an abnormality of blood coagulation that increases thrombosis. Homocystinuria encompasses a group of disorders marked by increased levels of homocysteine and other amino acids detectable in the bloodstream and urine. Conversely, homocystinuria due to methylenetetrahydrofolatereductase (MTHFR) deficiency, a rarer disorder, stems from impaired folate metabolism due to deficient MTHFR enzyme.

Case presentation
A 16-year-old boy presented with walking difficulties, headaches, and thrombotic events, thrombophilia workup led to a diagnosis of homocystinuria due to a novel mutation in MTHFR gene. Anticoagulant therapy was initiated which showed clinical improvement, but financial constraints hindered follow-up.

Conclusions
This case highlights the complexities of diagnosing and treating paediatric thrombophilia, particularly in resource-limited settings. Notably, the identified homozygous autosomal recessive (AR) missense variation in the MTHFR gene (Exon 4—c582C>G) represents a novel mutation, suggesting the ongoing significance of genetic research in elucidating the underlying mechanisms of thrombotic disorders.
A new gas chromatographic method for quantification of Metformin hydrochloride and Vildagliptin in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage form: development and validation
Authors: Mohite Popat , Bhusal Ramesh , Khandre Yogita , Pandhare Ramdas , Pawar Anil 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Metformin, an antidiabetic drug, assists in reducing the creation of glucose inside the liver. Vildagliptin, a DPP-4 inhibitor, enhances insulin release from the pancreas and reduces the hormones that elevate blood sugar levels. The combined medications work synergistically to lower blood sugar levels. This study was designed to develop and validate a reliable method of simultaneous assessment of Metformin and Vildagliptin in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage forms. For the chromatographic separation, a Gs-Tek INNOWAX column was utilized. This column has a length of 30 m, an internal diameter of 0.25 mm, and a 1.8 µm film thickness. For the detection, a Flame Ionization Detector was utilized. The ideal conditions included an injection volume of 1 µL with a split mode of 10 to 1 ratio, a flow rate of 1 mL/minute for the nitrogen carrier gas, an injector temperature of 300 °C, a detector temperature of 250 °C, an initial oven temperature of 100 °C that was maintained for seven minutes and then programmed to climb at a rate of 10 °C per minute up to a temperature of 300 °C.

Results
A gas chromatographic method that is simple, precise, accurate, robust, and reliable has been developed and implemented for the simultaneous estimation of Metformin and Vildagliptin in the tablet dosage form. The retention time for Metformin and Vildagliptin was 10.203 and 22.021 min. respectively. Validation studies were performed on the method’s Linearity, detection limit (LOD), and quantitation limit (LOQ), as well as its accuracy, precision, system suitability, and robustness, using the norms established by the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH). The mean recovery value for Metformin and Vildagliptin was 100.31% (% R.S.D. = 0.6743%) and 100.33% (% R.S.D. = 0.6900%). All the results are within the acceptable range.

Conclusion
Validation of the developed method revealed that all the results were within an acceptable range, and techniques can be employed to analyze these two medications in combined dosage forms. It is the first method used for simultaneous estimation of these two drugs.

Graphical abstract
An overview of neuromuscular ultrasound of important small nerves
Authors: Tawfik Eman A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Neuromuscular ultrasound has become an important tool in the diagnostic workup of nerve and muscle disorders. Scanning techniques, sonoanatomy, and sonographic appearance of the pathologies of the main upper and lower limb nerves have been extensively described in the literature. The nerve branches and small nerves have also been addressed but to a much lesser extent.

Main body of the abstract
The aim of the article is to give an overview of neuromuscular ultrasound of important small nerves including nerve branches and other small nerves. The article provides a summary for machine settings and indications of ultrasound scanning of small nerves. It then discusses each nerve as regards the relevant anatomy, detailed scanning techniques, sonoanatomy, and common pathologies.

Conclusion
This article represents a practical guide for scanning important nerve branches and small nerves which can facilitate sonographic assessment of pathologies of such challenging nerves.
Research on high-power and high-efficiency emission of crosswell electromagnetic logging
Authors: Chao Yongsheng , Ji Yongli , Zang Defu , Li Zhiqiang , Wang Huaxiong , Ren Yanmin 
Published: April 2024

Crosswell electromagnetic (EM) logging has useful applications in oil, gas, and water monitoring as well as carbon sequestration estimation. Difficulties in the efficient propagation of EM waves through a steel casing inhibit crosswell EM logging at distances greater than 300 m. This study investigates whether high-power transmission and high-efficiency transmitting antennas can resolve the challenges of long-distance crosswell EM logging through steel casings. Theoretical analysis indicates that the emission moment should be at least 12,000 A·m2. By calculating the equivalent relative permeability and selecting the appropriate coil materials and magnetic cores, the maximum emission magnetic moment can create a high-power transmission. Based on series and parallel resonant circuits and the alternating current/direct current cable core multiplexing power supply method, the effective transmission bandwidth is broadened and the transmission efficiency increases by three times. The emission unit is fabricated and tested using single, double, and fiberglass casing. We observe that the crosswell EM technology performs better for nonmetal casing wells than that for metal casing wells. The amplitude and phase curves between two fiberglass casing wells in the range of 425 m are quite smooth. However, the receiving signals in the double-layer steel casing decrease to only a few tenths of the value in the fiberglass casing wells, highlighting the difficulty of long-distance EM wave transmission when using steel casings. Thus, studies on EM transmission through four or more layers of steel casings should be conducted in the future.