bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Validation of a Novel LC-MS-MS Method for the Separation and Differentiation of Δ8- and Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Isomers and their Major Metabolites in Antemortem Whole Blood
Authors: Mikhaltsevich Petronela 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and defined it as cannabis plant material having not more than 0.3% ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC) by dry weight. This has opened the door for the sale of hemp-derived ∆8-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆8-THC), a psychoactive isomer of ∆9-THC. Hemp has minimal amounts of naturally occurring ∆8-THC; however, the cannabidiol (CBD) found in hemp can be chemically converted into ∆8-THC. Unfortunately, depending on the method of conversion, the amount of ∆8-THC, ∆9-THC and other by-products can vary widely. For many laboratories, the emergence of ∆8-THC products resulted in analytical challenges because of the structural similarity of the isomers resulting in coelution. In response, a novel liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was developed to separate the two isomers, with improved limit of detection (LOD) and lower limit of quantification (LLOQ). With this method, clear separation was achieved between ∆9-THC and ∆8-THC, 11-nor-9-carboxy-∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC-COOH) and 11-nor-9-carboxy-∆8-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆8-THC-COOH) and partial separation of 11-hydroxy-∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC-OH) and 11-hydroxy-∆8-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆8-THC-OH). While ∆9-THC-OH and ∆8-THC-OH did not achieve baseline separation, sufficient separation was achieved to confidently identify and differentiate the two compounds. LOD and LLOQ were the same for quantitative compounds. Quantitative range of 0.5 ng/mL to 100 ng/mL was achieved for ∆9-THC, ∆8-THC and ∆9-THC-OH and 2.5 ng/mL to 250 ng/mL for ∆9-THC-COOH. Qualitative analysis with LOD of 0.5 ng/mL was achieved for ∆8-THC-OH and 2.5 ng/mL for ∆8-THC-COOH. To achieve the desired LODs and LLOQs, alternate multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions were also explored in addition to those utilized in the laboratory’s prior method and other published methods. The method was validated following the American National Standards Institute/Academy Standards Board (ANSI/ASB) Standard 036, Standard Practices for Method Validation in Forensic Toxicology with minor exceptions, and was proven to be reliable and robust.
A243 CILIATED PANCREATIC FOREGUT CYST MIMICKING A MUCINOUS CYSTIC LESION: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Roda C , Telford J , Berg K , Sanders D 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Ciliated foregut cysts are rare congenital cysts that arise from the embryonic foregut and tracheobronchial tree, and are composed of an inner ciliated epithelium. While most commonly found in the mediastinum, they can also occur in the hepatopancreaticobiliary system. To our knowledge there has been less than 10 case reports describing ciliated pancreatic foregut cysts.

Aims
Report a case of a ciliated pancreatic foregut cyst and its associated imaging characteristics, cyst fluid analysis, and cytology.

Methods
A retrospective case report.

Results
A 66 year old female with invasive ductal adenocarcinoma of the right breast diagnosed in 2016 was found incidentally during staging work-up to have a 6.9 x 5.8 cm pancreatic tail cyst with peripheral calcifications on computed tomography scan of the abdomen. She had no history of pancreatitis or family history of pancreatic cancer, was a non-smoker, consumed minimal alcohol, and had normal liver enzymes.
An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) with fine needle aspiration (FNA) was performed 02/2017 showing normal pancreatic parenchyma with a 7 cm anechoic simple pancreatic tail cyst without septations, mural nodularity or dilation of the pancreatic duct. Cyst fluid analysis showed an amylase of 9,174 U/L and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) of 1,731mg/L in keeping with a mucinous cystic lesion. The patient was subsequently followed by magnetic resonance imaging of the pancreas every 6 - 12 months for 5 years with ongoing cyst stability (5.2 x 4.9 x 5.7 cm on 06/2017 and 5.8 x 3.8 x 4.8 cm on 09/2021). Three subsequent EUS with FNA were performed between 02/2022 - 09/2023 showing constancy in cyst characteristics. Cyst fluid CEA remained &gt;200 mg/L and cytologic evaluation on two occasions was non revealing (Table 1).
The working diagnosis was a side branch intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm. Given concern for malignant potential, a laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy was performed 02/2024. Surgical pathology showed a unilocular cyst with serious fluid and an epithelial lining with a ciliated boarder positive for CK7 and negative for ER. Findings were diagnostic of a congenital ciliated foregut cyst.

Conclusions
Our case report is the first to show EUS FNA cyst fluid analysis overtime for a ciliated pancreatic foregut cyst. The cysts fluid mimics that of a mucinous cystic lesion. Obtaining adequate cytology is paramount for identifying ciliated epithelium in order to differentiate these benign congenital cysts from those with malignant potential.
Table 1. Endoscopic ultrasound fine needle aspiration cyst fluid analysis from a ciliated pancreatic foregut cyst

Funding Agencies
None
Earthworms and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi improve salt tolerance in maize through symplastic pathways
Authors: Wang Binglei , Xiao Mingxuan , Cao Jia , Wang Chong 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Symplastic pathways involving plasma membrane H+-ATPases and Na+/H+ antiporters maintain sodium (Na+) homeostasis in the symplastic pathways and protect plant functions under salt stress. In this study, we characterised the effects of earthworms and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on Na+ absorption and transport in roots. Measurements of root Na+ content, plasma membrane H+-ATPase and Na+/H+ antiporter and antioxidant enzyme activities were performed together with transcriptome analysis. The addition of earthworms and AMF under saline conditions decreased the accumulation of Na+ in maize roots and significantly increased the root K:Na ratios, as well as increasing the levels of transcripts encoding plasma membrane H+-ATPases, Na+/H+ antiporters, antioxidant enzymes and proteins involved in nitrogen and phosphorus uptake under saline conditions. The transcript changes induced by earthworms and AMF indicate that abscisic acid mediates the effects on salt tolerance. Taken together, these findings suggest that earthworms and AMF improve the salt tolerance of maize seedlings through improved symplastic pathways.
A critical review on the relevance, essentiality, and analytical techniques of trace elements in human cancer
Authors: Liu Rui , Zhang Qian , Yan Xueting , Lv Yi 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Trace elements (TEs) are indispensable nutritional elements, playing a pivotal role in maintaining human health and serving as essential cofactors for numerous enzymes that facilitate crucial biological processes. The dysregulation (excess or deficiency) of TEs can affect the proper functioning of various organs and lead to diseases like cancer. However, the current research findings remain contentious, and the association between TE variations and cancer remains elusive. This article reviews the recent advances in the quantitative detection of TEs in tumor research to fully understand the important role of TEs in disease diagnosis and prognosis. The changes in the levels of various elements (such as Cu, Zn, Fe, Se, Ca, etc.) are analyzed and summarized from five systems of the human body, including the digestive system, urinary system, reproductive system, endocrine system, and respiratory system. By analyzing the relevant findings in diverse biological samples, we systematically investigate the disruption of TEs homeostasis in cancer patients, thereby underscoring the potential of TEs as cancer biomarkers. We also present novel analytical techniques such as isotope ratio determination and bioimaging, along with advanced auxiliary tools like machine learning, for the detection of TEs in disease research. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of TEs variations in the main cancer types of different systems, which addresses the knowledge gap in TEs on human health, and provides proposals for future research.
Global ultrasound synovitis scores reflect symptom severity and patient outcomes in chronic chikungunya disease
Authors: Watson Hugh , del Valle-Mendoza Juana , Aguilar-Luis Miguel Angel , Aquino-Ortega Ronald , Silva-Caso Wilmer , Tarazona-Castro Yordi , Nizzardo Andrea , Calusi Giulia , Mandron Marie , Puentes Esteban , Luxemburger Christine , D’Agostino Maria Antonietta 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Objectives
Acute chikungunya virus infection often leads to chronic post-infection arthritis, but investigation and evaluation of treatment is hampered by the subjectivity of symptoms. This study was designed to evaluate ultrasound scores and serum inflammatory markers as objective measures for the severity of chronic post-chikungunya arthritis.

Methods
Patients with acute chikungunya virus infection were enrolled in a prospective study and followed up at 3, 6 and 12 months. Assessments included both a physical exam and standardized ultrasound examination of 40 joints. Symptom severity and patient reported outcomes were recorded, and serum inflammatory markers were measured. Global ultrasound synovitis and tenosynovitis scores were calculated and correlation of ultrasound and serum markers with clinical symptoms and outcomes was analysed.

Results
Sixty patients (mean age 34 years, 67% female) were followed up. Widespread joint involvement was observed in the acute infection phase. This was followed by increasing involvement of small joints contributing to persistent symptoms in 57% of patients at 3 months and 30% at 12 months. Global ultrasound scores for synovitis at 3 months correlated with tender joint counts (r = 0.54, P &lt; 0.0001), pain severity (r = 0.59, P &lt; 0.0001), musculoskeletal stiffness (r = 0.42, P &lt; 0.001) and RAPID3 scores (r = 0.59, P &lt; 0.0001), confirmed at 6 and 12 months. Serum inflammatory markers were poorly associated with persistent symptoms during follow-up.

Conclusion
Global ultrasound scores for synovitis were found to be a relevant measure to support clinical observations in studies of chronic post-chikungunya joint disease.
Indications for Surgery and Surgical Options in Chiari Malformation
Authors: Visocchi Massimiliano , Signorelli Francesco , Alves Óscar L. , Goel Atul , Parthiban Jutty , Baeesa Saleh , Sharif Salman , Sampaio Francisco , Ben Ali Said , Lee June Ho , Oertel Joachim , Zileli Mehmet , Botelho Ricardo 
Published: February 2025

Study Design.
A systematic literature review and consensus using Delphi method.

Objectives.
This review aims to create recommendations on the surgical indications and approaches to treat Chiari Malformation (CM) with or without syringomyelia.

Summary of Background Data.
Despite the growing body of knowledge on CM, there are diverse and sometimes contradicting perspective about surgical indications and procedures in both pediatric and adult populations.

Methods.
The authors reviewed the literature on CM published from 2011 to 2022. Two consensus conferences were organized by WFNS Spine Committee. The first one was held in Sao Paulo, Brazil on August 2022, and the second one was held in Porto, Portugal on December 2022. Using the Delphi method, a panel expert spine surgeons and members of the WFNS Spine Committee examined the strength of the literature, elaborated and voted statements about the surgical management of CM.

Results.
We present 11 consensus statements on the surgical management of CM. Surgery is recommended for patients who have symptoms or if MRI shows progression in asymptomatic patients. In pediatrics, osteoligamentous decompression only is indicated, whereas adults can have foramen magnum decompression with duroplasty, which is usually sufficient to control the associated syringomyelia. Syrinx drainage is the last option. Arachnoid opening can be performed in patients who have previously failed surgery or if arachnoid morphological anomalies are identified during the initial procedure. Tonsillar shrinkage provides somewhat better clinical efficacy than decompression alone, but at a larger risk of complications. Only patients with concurrent basilar invagination and atlanto-axial instability are advised to undergo atlanto-axial fixation alone.

Conclusions.
The consensus statements created by a collaborative work provide useful information for surgeons treating CM worldwide in order to achieve better surgical outcomes and avoid complications.
Type IV Hypersensitivity Reaction to Dermabond Prineo in Plastic Surgery Patients: A Report of 4 Cases
Authors: Ramirez-Folleco Alexander , Lancheros-Ramirez Paula , Guerrero-Calderón Daniel , Ramirez-Folleco Andres 
Published: February 2025

Summary:
Dermabond Prineo, a 2-octyl cyanoacrylate-based skin closure system, is widely used in surgical procedures, but reports of adverse effects remain limited. This study aimed to report and analyze 4 cases of type IV hypersensitivity reactions to Dermabond in plastic surgery patients. The study was conducted in a private hospital in Cali, Colombia, between 2022 and 2024. Four patients who underwent reconstructive surgery and presented type IV hypersensitivity reaction after the use of Dermabond were included. Variables such as time of onset of symptoms, number of Dermabond applications, and postoperative management were considered. A literature review was performed for the analysis. All patients developed type IV hypersensitivity reactions after Dermabond application. Symptoms included erythema, pruritus, and other localized signs. These reactions improved significantly after the withdrawal of Dermabond and treatment with topical corticosteroids. All patients had been previously exposed to Dermabond in previous procedures. Dermabond reexposure in sensitized patients may induce type IV allergic reactions. Early identification and treatment of these reactions is crucial.
Accuracy of the smartphone blood pressure measurement solution OptiBP to track blood pressure changes in pregnant women
Authors: Almeida Pedro , Cuénoud Alexia , Hoang Harry , Othenin-Girard Alexandra , Salhi Nadia , Köthe Andreas , Christen Urvan , Schoettker Patrick 
Published: February 2025

Introduction:
Hypertensive disorders present significant morbidity and mortality during pregnancy. Although ambulatory blood pressure measurement remains the standard of care for normotensive women, self-monitoring at home is increasingly prevalent. The widespread use of smartphones worldwide has sparked interest in mobile applications that leverage the built-in hardware for blood pressure estimation, yet few trials have assessed their accuracy.

Methods:
This prospective, longitudinal and monocentric study evaluated the accuracy of the OptiBP algorithm against standard oscillometric blood pressure measurements in a sample of pregnant women. Patients scheduled for elective caesarean sections were enrolled during the preoperative anesthesia consultations. Paired blood pressure measurements using OptiBP and the reference method were obtained at multiple time-points in late pregnancy and the postpartum period. Agreement between methods was assessed using the AAMI/ESH/ISO 81060-2:2018 standard thresholds of 5 ± 8 mmHg for mean ± standard deviation of the error (criterion 1) and patient-specific standard deviation of the mean error (criterion 2) and represented graphically by Bland–Altman scatterplots.

Results:
Forty-eight women were enrolled of which 32 completed the protocol, yielding 338 total valid measurement pairs. Mean and standard deviation of the error were −1.78 ± 7.94 and 1.19 ± 7.59, and the patient-specific standard deviation of the mean error was 4.68 and 4.52, for SBP and DBP, respectively.

Conclusion:
Compared with blood pressure measurements taken with an oscillometric device, OptiBP's blood pressure estimates meet the AAMI/ESH/ISO 81060-2:2018 criteria.
Evaluation of Aktiia cuffless blood pressure monitor across 24-h, daytime, and night-time measurements versus ambulatory monitoring: a prospective, single-centre observational study
Authors: Almeida Tiago P. , Perruchoud David , Alexandre Jérémy , Vermare Pascale , Sola Josep , Shah Jay , Marques Luisa , Pellaton Cyril 
Published: February 2025

Objectives:
Cuffless blood pressure (BP) monitors represent an innovative approach to BP assessment, overcoming the traditional episodic nature of readings obtained from cuff-based, oscillometric modalities. Nonetheless, the comparison of these cuffless devices against their cuff-based counterparts remain debated.

Methods:
This study evaluated BP readings from a cuffless, continual BP monitor (Aktiia monitor, Neuchâtel, Switzerland) and a standard 24-h ambulatory BP monitor (ABPM; Dyasis 3, Novacor, Paris, France) in 54 patients undergoing a 12-week cardiac rehabilitation program in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. Comparisons encompassed 24-h, daytime (9 a.m.–9 p.m.), and night-time (11 p.m.–7 a.m.) systolic and diastolic BP (SBP, DBP) using a 7-day average from Aktiia overlapping a 1-day average from ABPM. Nocturnal dip analysis was performed with 1-day average from Aktiia coinciding with ABPM measurements.

Results:
No significant differences emerged between the Aktiia and ABPM monitors for 24-h and daytime SBP (24-h:

2.6 ± 12.3 [-0.2, 5.4] mmHg, r = 0.57, P = 0.06; daytime: 1.2 ± 12.4 [−1.6, 4.0] mmHg, r = 0.60, P = 0.38). Night-time SBP showed more evident differences (12.5 ± 14.4 [9.3, 15.8] mmHg, r = 0.39, P < 0.001). DBP were within clinical range across 24-h and daytime (24-h: −2.9 ± 7.9 [−4.7, −1.1] mmHg, r = 0.63, P = 0.002; daytime: −3.1 ± 8.2 [−5.0, −1.3] mmHg, r = 0.64, P = 0.001), and showed significant differences for night-time (4.1 ± 8.5 [2.2, 6.0] mmHg, r = 0.57, P < 0.001). The concordance rate with ABPM's nocturnal dip was 79% for 1-day average from Aktiia.

Conclusions:
These results demonstrate that the Aktiia monitor yields BP measurements consistent with an ABPM monitor despite some systematic differences during night-time readings. The Aktiia monitor holds potential for future use in continual BP monitoring.

Clinical Trial Registration:
NCT04548986. URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04548986?tab=results
Promising therapeutic targets for neuroprotection in retinal disease
Authors: Pan Warren W. , Wubben Thomas J. , Zacks David N. 
Published: February 2025

Purpose of review
Neurodegeneration is a common endpoint of various blinding retinal diseases. Yet, despite exciting advances in disease treatment, there continues to exist a critical need for the development of neuroprotective strategies to prevent retinal cell death. Here, we summarize the recent advances in neuroprotective strategies.

Recent findings
From laboratory deciphering of the mechanisms involved in disease, many novel neuroprotective strategies have emerged and are currently under investigation for the treatment of various retinal and ocular diseases such as inherited retinal degeneration, retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, macular telangiectasia type 2, and glaucoma. These strategies include gene therapies, Fas inhibition, and targeting inflammatory, metabolic and reduction-oxidation abnormalities. Interestingly, investigation of several treatments across different diseases suggests shared neuroprotection mechanisms that can be targeted regardless of the particular disease.

Summary
Retinal neuroprotection can improve treatment of different retinal diseases. Fortunately, the current landscape, with a plethora of novel neuroprotective therapies, portends a better future for patients.
Lung-protective ventilation strategy to improve oxygenation function and respiratory mechanics in patients undergoing robotic bariatric surgery: A randomized double-blind trial (CONSORT)
Authors: Song Zichen , Sun Lin , Chen Peng , Yu Yonghao 
Published: February 2025

Background:
The respiratory effects of lung-protective ventilation strategy (LPVS) on patients undergoing robotic abdominal surgery are still controversial, and prospective studies are needed to validate the lung-protective effects of LPVS, especially in robotic bariatric surgery.

Methods:
Forty-two patients undergoing robotic bariatric surgery were included in this study, of whom 20 received an LPVS and 22 received a standard ventilation strategy. Parameters were recorded at 5 intraoperative time points to assess respiratory mechanics, hemodynamics, and oxygenation. The incidence of intraoperative ventilation complications and postoperative pulmonary complications. Statistical analyses were performed using repeated measures analysis of variance and chi-square tests.

Results:
First, we demonstrated that the LPVS using a small tidal volume, positive end-expiratory pressure ventilation, and low inspired oxygen concentration could reduce peak and plateau airway pressures in patients undergoing robotic bariatric surgery (P < .05). Second, patients’ oxygenation index (P < .01) and partial pressure of oxygen (P < .05) increased considerably after lung-protective ventilation treatment, suggesting that this strategy facilitates oxygenation function in patients. Finally, we found that high inhaled oxygen concentration was an independent risk factor for postoperative pulmonary complications in robotic bariatric surgery patients (P < .05).

Conclusions:
This study confirms that LPVS can improve oxygenation function and respiratory mechanics in patients undergoing robotic bariatric surgery, which is of clinical significance.
An overview of persistent chylomicronemia: much more than meets the eye
Authors: Larouche Miriam , Watts Gerald F. , Ballantyne Christie , Gaudet Daniel 
Published: February 2025

Purpose of review
The aim of this review is to provide an overview of severe hypertriglyceridemia presenting in the form of chylomicronemia that persists despite treatment of secondary causes and the use of conventional lipid-lowering treatment.

Recent findings
Persistent chylomicronemia is a rare syndromic disorder that affects carriers of bi-allelic combinations of pathogenic gene variants impairing lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity, as well as a significant number of individuals who do not meet this genetic criterion. It is associated with a high risk of acute pancreatitis and other morbidities. Effective innovative treatments for severe hypertriglyceridemia are being developed and are becoming available. Patients with persistent chylomicronemia of any cause respond equally to next-generation therapies with LPL-independent mechanisms of action and do not generally respond to conventional LPL-dependent treatments.

Summary
Not all individuals with persistent chylomicronemia carry a proven pathogenic combination of gene variants that impair LPL activity. Documenting the clinical characteristics of people with persistent chylomicronemia and their response to emerging therapies is essential to correctly establish their risk trajectory and ensure equitable access to personalized treatment.