bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A case of concurrent follicular lymphoma and lung cancer requiring differentiation from lymph node metastasis
Authors: Takahara Yutaka , Nagae Sumito , Yamagata Aika , Iijima Yoshihito , Shioya Akihiro , Yamada Sohsuke , Uramoto Hidetaka 
Published: March 2024

AbstractLung cancer complicated by follicular lymphoma has rarely been reported in the literature. A 69‐year‐old male with an abnormal shadow on a chest radiograph was referred to our hospital. A mass in the right lung was seen on chest computed tomography (CT). Positron emission tomography‐CT showed fluorodeoxyglucose accumulation in the esophagus and multiple intra‐abdominal lymph nodes, in addition to the right lung lesion. The lung lesion was diagnosed as a pulmonary adenocarcinoma after biopsy. Upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopies did not reveal the presence of a tumor. Open lymph node biopsy was performed to determine the course of treatment, leading to a diagnosis of follicular lymphoma. The patient finally underwent radical resection for lung cancer; the follicular lymphoma was judged to be low‐grade and was followed up. When complications involving other organs are detected during systemic examination of a patient with lung cancer, it is necessary to distinguish between metastasis to other organs and complications of other malignant diseases, as this will greatly influence the treatment strategy.
Pharmacokinetics of propofol in severely obese surgical patients
Authors: Braathen Martin Rygh , Rigby‐Jones Ann E. , Ræder Johan , Spigset Olav , Heier Tom 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundExisting PK models of propofol include sparse data from very obese patients. The aim of this study was to develop a PK model based on standardised surgical conditions and spanning from normal‐weight up to, and including, a high number of very obese patients.MethodsAdult patients scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy or bariatric surgery were studied. Anaesthesia was induced with propofol 2 mg/kg adjusted body weight over 2 min followed by 6 mg/kg/h adjusted body weight over 30 min. For the remainder of the operation anaesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane. Remifentanil was dosed according to clinical need. Eight arterial samples were drawn in a randomised block sampling regimen over a span of 24 h. Time‐concentration data were analysed by population PK modelling using non‐linear mixed‐effects modelling.ResultsFour hundred and seventy four serum propofol concentrations were collected from 69 patients aged 19–60 years with a BMI 21.6–67.3 kg/m2. Twenty one patients had a BMI above 50 kg/m2. A 3‐compartment PK model was produced wherein three different body weight descriptors and sex were included as covariates in the final model. Total body weight was found to be a covariate for clearance and Q3; lean body weight for V1, V2 and Q2; predicted normal weight for V3 and sex for V1. The fixed allometric exponent of 0.75 applied to all clearance parameters improved the performance of the model. Accuracy and precision were 1.4% and 21.7% respectively in post‐hoc performance evaluation.ConclusionWe have developed a new PK model of propofol that is suitable for all adult weight classes. Specifically, it is based on data from an unprecedented number of individuals with very high BMI.
Dual treatment with kynurenine pathway inhibitors and NAD+ precursors synergistically extends life span in Drosophila
Authors: Gabrawy Mariann M. , Westbrook Reyhan , King Austin , Khosravian Nick , Ochaney Neeraj , DeCarvalho Tagide , Wang Qinchuan , Yu Yuqiong , Huang Qiao , Said Adam , Abadir Michael , Zhang Cissy , Khare Pratik , Fairman Jennifer E. , Le Anne , Milne Ginger L. , Vonhoff Fernando J. , Walston Jeremy D. , Abadir Peter M. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractTryptophan catabolism is highly conserved and generates important bioactive metabolites, including kynurenines, and in some animals, NAD+. Aging and inflammation are associated with increased levels of kynurenine pathway (KP) metabolites and depleted NAD+, factors which are implicated as contributors to frailty and morbidity. Contrastingly, KP suppression and NAD+ supplementation are associated with increased life span in some animals. Here, we used DGRP_229 Drosophila to elucidate the effects of KP elevation, KP suppression, and NAD+ supplementation on physical performance and survivorship. Flies were chronically fed kynurenines, KP inhibitors, NAD+ precursors, or a combination of KP inhibitors with NAD+ precursors. Flies with elevated kynurenines had reduced climbing speed, endurance, and life span. Treatment with a combination of KP inhibitors and NAD+ precursors preserved physical function and synergistically increased maximum life span. We conclude that KP flux can regulate health span and life span in Drosophila and that targeting KP and NAD+ metabolism can synergistically increase life span.
Variation in amphibian maturation rates influences population vulnerability to disease‐induced declines
Authors: Scheele B. C. , Webb R. J. , Hua X. , Hollanders M. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractUnderstanding factors that influence population‐level responses to emerging threats in declining species is crucial for informed conservation action. In amphibian species impacted by the chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis), a pathogen that has caused amphibian declines globally, a commonly reported pattern is that more severe population declines tend to occur at higher elevations. Previous research has suggested that this pattern could be driven by reduced environmental suitability for chytrid fungus at lower elevations. However, delayed amphibian maturation, which is common in cold, high elevation populations, could also increase vulnerability to population decline. Here, we tackle this key knowledge gap, focusing on the critically endangered corroboree frogs (Pseudophryne corroboree and P. pengilleyi), which have experienced a pattern of extirpation at higher elevations, with remnant populations persisting at lower elevations. First, we quantify the age structure of two extant low elevation P. pengilleyi populations and museum specimens (both species) collected before the emergence of chytrid fungus in Australia. Male age to maturation varied from 1 to 3 years, with the extant population with higher chytrid prevalence displaying severe age structure truncation. Second, we use population simulations to calculate elasticity values under a range of scenarios with varying ages to maturation and chytrid‐associated mortality. When the population growth rate was fixed at 1, adult survival became increasingly important as age to maturation increases, particularly under a scenario of high chytrid‐associated mortality. Our simulation results indicate that delayed maturation could be a previously underappreciated factor associated with an increased risk of amphibian population decline and that earlier maturation could contribute to population persistence. Our study highlights the importance of examining variation in life history traits to better understand population‐level responses to novel threats and guide the development of appropriate conservation actions.
Filling the gap of phonation in reptiles: First record of oral emission of the worm lizard, Amphisbaena alba
Authors: Guilhon Bruno Ferreira , de Oliveira Cicero Ricardo , Quirino Tatiana Feitosa , Wachlevski Milena , Passos Daniel Cunha 
Published: March 2024

AbstractSo far, the phonation among worm lizards (Amphisbaenia) was virtually unknown, but herein we present for the first time a loud and clear record of sound emission by an amphisbaenian and its acoustic parameters. We observed an adult female of Amphisbaena alba emitting a high‐pitched sound, able to be heard a few meters away by a human ear. The sound was emitted with the mouth wide open and consisted of a short well‐defined note, presenting harmonics and frequency modulation. Based on the context of display and the body posture of the individual, we suggest that the oral emission of A. alba may be considered a defensive sound emission. However, based on the spectral structure of emission within hearing acuity reported for the species, we cannot disregard the possibility that this sound might act in communication with conspecifics. Beyond raising possible defensive and intra‐specific communication roles for the sound emissions of worm lizards, our findings contribute to the understanding of acoustic communication in tetrapods through the analysis of sounds produced by these fossorial reptiles.
Does it matter how we ship the good apples out? On specific tariffs, transport modes, and agricultural export prices
Authors: Fiankor Dela‐Dem Doe , Dalheimer Bernhard , Curzi Daniele , Hoffmeister Onno , Brümmer Bernhard 
Published: March 2024

AbstractFree‐on‐board (FOB) export prices for identical products from the same origin often differ across destinations, even when accounting for the trade costs and attributes of the destination country. One explanation for this observed price difference is per‐unit trade costs, and the ability of exporters to vary their markups and/or product quality. Using a novel dataset that details trade flows between countries by mode of transport, we estimate the transport mode‐specific effect of a per‐unit trade cost, specifically specific tariffs, on the FOB export prices of agricultural products. We find an elasticity of specific tariffs to export prices of 1.8%. However, the estimates are heterogeneous across modes of transport. The elasticity of specific tariffs to export prices is 2% for air transport, 5% for road transport, and .3% for sea cargo. Since the observed positive export price effect can reflect product quality differences or markups, we account for the quality element and find that for a given product quality, markups increase with increasing specific tariffs. This form of price discrimination is less pronounced for higher‐quality products that are predominantly shipped by air.
Pubertal testicular volume references for ruler, orchidometer, and ultrasonography measurements based on a longitudinal follow‐up
Authors: Koskela Mikael , Virtanen Helena E. , Rodprasert Wiwat , Jahnukainen Kirsi , Toppari Jorma , Koskenniemi Jaakko J. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundTesticular volume is a marker of male pubertal development. Various clinical conditions and their treatments may influence testicular growth.ObjectivesTo create ruler‐based age‐dependent pubertal testicular volume references that enable calculation of standard deviation (SD) scores.Materials and MethodsStudy cohort comprised 65 boys who attended clinical examination twice a year from the age of 8.5 years until the attainment of final testicular size. Forty‐nine (75.4%) boys completed the follow‐up and 16 (24.6%) boys dropped out before the attainment of final post‐pubertal testicular size. At each follow‐up visit testicular size was measured with a ruler, orchidometer, and ultrasonography. LMS or LMSP method served as the technique for creating reference growth curves for testicular volumes. Using the novel references for ruler measurements, development of SD scores was assessed in a cohort of boys with unilateral cryptorchidism.ResultsReference growth curves were constructed separately for ruler, orchidometer, and ultrasonography measurements. Median orchidometer volume of 4 mL, marker of male pubertal onset, occurred at the age of 11.7 years, whereas +2SD curve surpassed 4 mL at 10.2 years and −2SD curve at 13.7 years. Modeled ages at the attainment of 4 mL testicular volume based on ruler measurements were 9.7 years for +2SD curve, 11.5 years for median curve, and 13.6 years for −2SD curve. Ultrasonography‐based volume of 1.3 mL corresponded with the median modeled orchidometer‐based volume of 4 mL. In boys with unilateral cryptorchidism, ruler‐based SD scores decreased during puberty in undescended testes, but not in descended testes.Discussion and ConclusionThe present study provides reference values for pubertal testicular volume measured with a ruler enabling an age‐dependent assessment of testicular size. Comparison with measurements by an orchidometer and ultrasonography is also presented.
Associations between arterial health and sexual function in women aged 60–64 years
Authors: Virkkunen Viivi , Kero Katja , Koivisto Mari , Niiranen Teemu , Heinonen Olli , Stenholm Sari , Polo‐Kantola Päivi 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIntroductionFemale sexual dysfunction is very common, but its determinants remain under‐investigated. Vasculogenic impairments are suggested to be related to female sexual dysfunction, but previous literature regarding the association is scarce. This study aims to study the association between arterial health and female sexual function in women in their 60s.Material and methodsThe sample for this cross‐sectional study comprised 117 women (aged 60–64 years) who participated in the Finnish Retirement and Aging study. Arterial health was measured according to the participants' pulse wave velocity, ankle–brachial index, blood pressure, and pulse pressure. Sexual function was measured using the Female Sexual Function Index, which resulted in a total score and six sub‐scores. Associations were examined using multivariable regression analyses, which were adjusted for age, relationship happiness, systemic menopausal hormone therapy and/or local estrogen, smoking, alcohol risk use, body mass index, and depressive symptoms.ResultsHigher diastolic blood pressure was associated with a higher total Female Sexual Function Index score (β = 0.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.07–0.41) and with higher desire (β = 0.02, 95% CI 0.01–0.04), arousal (β = 0.04, 95% CI 0.01–0.08), lubrication (β = 0.04, 95% CI 0.002–0.08), satisfaction (β = 0.03, 95% CI 0.003–0.05), and pain (β = 0.06, 95% CI 0.02–0.10) sub‐scores. Also, higher ankle–brachial index was associated with higher satisfaction sub‐score (β = 2.10, 95% CI 0.44–3.73) and lower pulse pressure was associated with higher orgasm sub‐score (β = 0.03, 95% CI 0.0002–0.06). Other associations between ankle–brachial index and Female Sexual Function Index scores were statistically insignificant, but considering the magnitude the findings may imply clinical significance. Systolic blood pressure and pulse wave velocity were not associated with sexual function.ConclusionsThis study suggested a plausible association between higher diastolic blood pressure and female sexual function, but considering clinical significance our findings suggest an association between higher ankle–brachial index and good sexual function in women in their 60s.
Progestogens in women with threatened miscarriage or recurrent miscarriage: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhao Yunli , D'Souza Rohan , Gao Ya , Hao Qiukui , Kallas‐Silva Lucas , Steen Jeremy P. , Guyatt Gordon 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIntroductionClinical practice guidelines provide inconsistent recommendations regarding progestogen supplementation for threatened and recurrent miscarriage. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the effectiveness and safety of progestogens for these patients.Material and methodsWe searched Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials up to October 6, 2023 for randomized control trials (RCTs) comparing progestogen supplementation to placebo or no treatment for pregnant women with threatened or recurrent miscarriage. We assessed the risk of bias using a modified version of the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool and the certainty of evidence using the GRADE approach.ResultsOf 15 RCTs (6616 pregnancies) reporting on threatened or recurrent miscarriage, 12 (5610 pregnancies) reported on threatened miscarriage with or without a prior history of miscarriage. Results indicated that progesterone probably increases live births (relative risk (RR) 1.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.99–1.10, absolute increase 3.1%, moderate certainty). Of these RCTs, three (1973 pregnancies) reporting on threatened miscarriage with a prior history of miscarriage indicated that progesterone possibly increases live births (RR 1.06, 95% CI: 0.97–1.16, absolute increase 4.4%; low certainty), while four (2540 pregnancies) reporting on threatened miscarriage and no prior miscarriage left the effect very uncertain (RR 1.02, 95% CI: 0.96–1.10, absolute increase 1.7%; very low certainty). Three trials reporting on 1006 patients with a history of two or more prior miscarriages indicated progesterone probably increases live births (RR 1.08, 95% CI: 0.98–1.19, absolute increase 5.7%, moderate certainty). Six RCTs that reported on 2979 patients with at least one prior miscarriage indicated that progesterone probably increases live births (RR 1.07, 95% CI: 1.01–1.13, absolute increase 5.0%; moderate certainty). Progesterone probably has little or no effect on congenital anomalies (RR 1.06, 95% CI: 0.76–1.48, absolute increase 0.1%; moderate certainty), and other serious adverse pregnancy events (RR 1.07, 95% CI: 0.83–1.40, absolute increase 0.2%, moderate certainty).ConclusionsIn women at increased risk of pregnancy loss, progestogens probably increase live births without increasing adverse maternal and neonatal events. It remains possible that the benefit is restricted to those with prior miscarriages.
Prediction of preterm birth in women with fetal growth restriction – Is the weekly change in sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio or PlGF levels useful?
Authors: Hong Jesrine , Crawford Kylie , Cavanagh Erika , Clifton Vicki , Kumar Sailesh 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIntroductionTo assess the rate of change in soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1/placental growth factor (sFlt‐1/PlGF) ratio and PlGF levels per week compared to a single sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio or PlGF level to predict preterm birth for pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction.Material and methodsA prospective cohort study of pregnancies complicated by isolated fetal growth restriction. Maternal serum PlGF levels and the sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio were measured at 4‐weekly intervals from recruitment to delivery. We investigated the utility of PlGF levels, sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio, change in PlGF levels per week or sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio per week. Cox‐proportional hazard models and Harrell's C concordance statistic were used to evaluate the effect of biomarkers on time to preterm birth.ResultsThe total study cohort was 158 pregnancies comprising 91 (57.6%) with fetal growth restriction and 67 (42.4%) with appropriate for gestational age controls. In the fetal growth restriction cohort, sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio and PlGF levels significantly affected time to preterm birth (Harrell's C: 0.85–0.76). The rate of increase per week of the sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio (hazard ratio [HR] 3.91, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.39–10.99, p = 0.01, Harrell's C: 0.74) was positively associated with preterm birth but change in PlGF levels per week was not (HR 0.65, 95% CI: 0.25–1.67, p = 0.37, Harrell's C: 0.68).ConclusionsBoth a high sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio and low PlGF levels are predictive of preterm birth in women with fetal growth restriction. Although the rate of increase of the sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio predicts preterm birth, it is not superior to either a single elevated sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio or low PlGF level.
Machine perfusion preservation highlights from the Congress of the European Society of Organ Transplantation 2023
Authors: Faria Isabella , Vidgren Mathias , Canizares Stalin , Devos Lene , Reichel Katrin , Oniscu Gabriel C. , Martins Paulo N. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe 21st Congress of the European Society of Organ Transplantation (ESOT), held on September 17–20th, 2023, in Athens, Greece, was a pivotal event in transplantation, focusing on the theme “Disruptive Innovation, Trusted Care.” The congress attracted a global audience of 2 826 participants from 82 countries, emphasizing its international significance. Machine perfusion, as a groundbreaking technology in organ transplantation, was one of the central focuses of the conference. This year's meeting had a remarkable increase in accepted abstracts on machine perfusion, evidencing its growing prominence in the field. The collective findings from these abstracts highlighted the efficacy of machine perfusion in improving organ viability and transplant outcomes. Studies demonstrated improvements in graft survival and reduction in complications, as well as novel uses and techniques. Furthermore, the integration of machine perfusion with regenerative medicine and its application across multiple organ types were significant discussion points. The congress also highlighted the challenges and solutions in implementing machine perfusion in clinical settings, emphasizing the importance of practical training and international collaboration for advancing this technology. ESOT 2023 served as a crucial platform for disseminating scientific advancements, fostering practical learning, and facilitating international collaborations in organ transplantation. The congress underscored the evolution and importance of machine perfusion technology, marking a significant step forward in enhancing patient outcomes in the field of organ transplantation.
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome from current evidence to new diagnostic perspectives through skeletal muscle and metabolic disturbances
Authors: Pietrangelo Tiziana , Cagnin Stefano , Bondi Danilo , Santangelo Carmen , Marramiero Lorenzo , Purcaro Cristina , Bonadio Raphael Severino , Di Filippo Ester Sara , Mancinelli Rosa , Fulle Stefania , Verratti Vittore , Cheng Xuanhong 
Published: March 2024

AbstractMyalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a demanding medical condition for patients and society. It has raised much more public awareness after the COVID‐19 pandemic since ME/CFS and long‐COVID patients share many clinical symptoms such as debilitating chronic fatigue. However, unlike long COVID, the etiopathology of ME/CFS remains a mystery despite several decades' research. This review moves from pathophysiology of ME/CFS through the compelling evidence and most interesting hypotheses. It focuses on the pathophysiology of skeletal muscle by proposing the hypothesis that skeletal muscle tissue offers novel opportunities for diagnosis and treatment of this syndrome and that new evidence can help resolve the long‐standing debate on terminology.
Dose safety and pharmacodynamics of subcutaneous bupivacaine in a novel extended‐release microparticle formulation: A phase 1, dose‐ascending study in male volunteers
Authors: Jensen Elisabeth Kjær , Bøgevig Søren , Balchen Torben , Springborg Anders Holten , Royal Mike Allan , Storgaard Ida Klitzing , Lund Trine Meldgaard , Møller Kirsten , Werner Mads Utke 
Published: March 2024

AbstractA novel microparticle‐based extended‐release local anaesthetic containing a bupivacaine/poly‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid (PLGA; LIQ865A) or plain bupivacaine (LIQ865B) was examined in a first‐in‐human trial. The objectives were to examine the dose safety/tolerability and pharmacodynamics. Randomized subcutaneous injections of LIQ865A (n = 16) or LIQ865B (n = 12) and diluent, contralaterally, were administered in a dose‐ascending manner (150‐ to 600‐mg bupivacaine). Subjects were admitted 24 h post‐injection and followed for 30 days post‐injection. The risk ratios (RRs; 95% CI) of erythematous reactions for LIQ865A versus diluent was 9.00 (1.81–52.23; P = 0.006) and for LIQ865B versus diluent 2.50 (0.69–9.94; P = 0.37). The RR for the development of hematomas (LIQ865A versus diluent) were 3.25 (1.52–8.16; P = 0.004) and 4.00 (0.72–24.89; P = 0.32) (LIQ865B versus diluent). Subcutaneous indurations persisting for 4–13 weeks were seen in 6/16 subjects receiving LIQ865A. One subject receiving LIQ865A (600‐mg bupivacaine) developed intermittent central nervous system (CNS) symptoms of local anaesthetic systemic toxicity (85 min to 51 h post‐injection) coinciding with plasma peak bupivacaine concentrations (490–533 ng/ml). Both LIQ865 formulations demonstrated dose‐dependent hypoesthesia and hypoalgesia. The duration of analgesia ranged between 37 and 86 h. The overall number of local adverse events, however, prohibits clinical application without further pharmacological modifications.