bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Accurate Identification of Primary Site in Tumors of Unknown Origin (TUO) Using DNA Methylation
Authors: Santana-Santos Lucas , Duckett Drew , Vormittag-Nocito Erica , Jamshidi Pouya , Sukhanova Madina , Parker Stephanie , Brat Daniel , Jennings Lawrence 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Tumors of unknown origin (TUO) generally result in poor patient survival and are clinically difficult to address. Identification of the site of origin in TUO patients is paramount to their improved treatment and survival but is difficult to obtain with current methods. Here, we develop a random forest machine learning TUO methylation classifier using a large number of primary and metastatic tumor samples. Our classifier achieves high accuracy in primary site identification when applied to both publicly available and internal validation samples, with 97% of samples classified correctly and 85% receiving high probability scores (≥ 0.9). Moreover, by employing pathologist expertise and unsupervised clustering, the TUO classifier can assign samples to 46 different site of origin/disease classes. This strategy also revealed multiple classes of yet unknown significance for future exploration. Overall, the presented TUO classifier represents a significant step forward in the diagnosis of TUO tumors.
Non-Coding RNAs Potentially Involved in Pyrethroid Resistance of Anopheles funestus Population in Western Kenya
Authors: Debrah Isaiah , Zhong Daibin , Machani Maxwell G. , Nattoh Godfrey , Ochwedo Kevin O. , Morang'a Collins M. , Lee Ming-Chieh , Amoah Linda E. , Githeko Andrew K. , Afrane Yaw A. , Yan Guiyun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Backgrounds
The resurgence of Anopheles funestus, a dominant vector of human malaria in western Kenya was partly attributed to insecticide resistance. However, evidence on the molecular basis of pyrethroid resistance in western Kenya is limited. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) form a vast class of RNAs that do not code for proteins and are ubiquitous in the insect genome. Here, we demonstrated that multiple ncRNAs could play a potential role in An. funestusresistance to pyrethroid in western Kenya.
Materials and Methods
Anopheles funestus mosquitoes were sampled by aspiration methods in Bungoma, Teso, Siaya, Port Victoria and Kombewa in western Kenya. The F1 progenies were exposed to deltamethrin (0.05%), permethrin (0.75%), DDT (4%) and pirimiphos-methyl (0.25%) following WHO test guidelines. A synergist assay using piperonyl butoxide (PBO) (4%) was conducted to determine cytochrome P450s' role in pyrethroid resistance. RNA-seq was conducted on a combined pool of specimens that were resistant and unexposed, and the results were compared with those of the FANG susceptible strain. This approach aimed to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying pyrethroid resistance.
Results
Pyrethroid resistance was observed in all the sites with an average mortality rate of 57.6%. Port Victoria had the highest level of resistance to permethrin (MR=53%) and deltamethrin (MR=11%) pyrethroids. Teso had the lowest level of resistance to permethrin (MR=70%) and deltamethrin (MR=87%). Resistance to DDT was observed only in Kombewa (MR=89%) and Port Victoria (MR=85%). A full susceptibility to P-methyl (0.25%) was observed in all the sites. PBO synergist assay revealed high susceptibility (>98%) to the pyrethroids in all the sites except for Port Victoria (MR=96%, n=100). Whole transcriptomic analysis showed that most of the gene families associated with pyrethroid resistance comprised non-coding RNAs (67%), followed by imipenemase (10%),cytochrome P450s (6%), cuticular proteins (5%), olfactory proteins (4%), glutathione S-transferases (3%), UDP-glycosyltransferases (2%), ATP-binding cassettes (2%) and carboxylesterases(1%).
Conclusions
This study unveils the molecular basis of insecticide resistance in An. funestus in western Kenya, highlighting for the first time the potential role of non-coding RNAs in pyrethroid resistance. Targeting non-coding RNAs for intervention development could help in insecticide resistance management.
Benefits of transitioning from transperitoneal laparoscopic to retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy – a single center experience
Authors: Feka Joy , Soliman Barbara , Arikan Melisa , Sacher Magdalena , Binter Teresa , Hargitai Lindsay , Scheuba Christian , Riss Philipp 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Since 2017, switching from lateral transperitoneal laparoscopic (LTA), posterior retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy (RPA) is used as standard procedure in this institution. Aim of this study was to compare both techniques regarding operative time, length of stay and safety of the procedures.
Methods
All patients operated in our institution for adrenal tumors were prospectively documented in the EUROCRINE-database and retrospectively analyzed. Sex, age, body mass index (BMI), indication, operative time, conversion and complication rates, hospital stay and tumor-size were analyzed.
Results
105 RPAs and 132 LTAs were performed in an 8-year period. No difference was seen in age, sex and tumor localization. Adenoma (n = 113) and pheochromocytoma (n = 64) were the most common histopathological findings. Compared to the LTA group, the RPA group had significantly shorter operative time with a median of 50 minutes (15–380) vs. 125 minutes (25–420) (p < 0.001) and shorter hospital stay with a median of 3 vs. 9 days (p < 0.001). The decrease of the median operative time in RPA group, visualizing the learning curve of the procedure, was from 60 minutes (2017) to 45 minutes (2020). 4 conversions from RPA to open adrenalectomy had to be performed due to bleeding or adhesions, whereas 9 LTA procedures had to be converted due to bleeding(n = 2), unclear anatomy (n = 1), adhesions (n = 1), difficult access (n = 1) or planned conversion (n = 4).
Conclusion
RPA could be safely introduced with reduced operative times and shorter length of hospital stay compared to LTA.
Interplay between disorder and electronic correlations in compositionally complex alloys
Authors: Minar Jan , Redka David , Khan Saleem , Martino Edoardo , Mettan Xavier , Ciric Luka , Tolj Davor , Ivšić Trpimir , Held Andreas , Caputo Marco , Strocov Vladimir , Marco Igor , Ebert Hubert , Huber Heinz , Dil Hugo , Forró László 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Exploring the intricate interplay between disorder and correlations in compositionally complex alloys, our study employs resonant and valence band photoemission, optical conductivity, and electrical resistivity, complemented by density functional theory-based linear response calculations. By applying dynamical mean-field theory, we identify correlation signatures and damping in spectra, emphasizing the significance of many-body effects, especially in states far from the Fermi edge. Electronic transport remains dominated by chemical and magnetic disorder. Our results advance understanding of element specific electronic correlations in CrMnFeCoNi, elucidating the complex physical nature of compositionally complex alloys.
Detection of congenital heart disease by neonatologist performed cardiac ultrasound in extreme preterm infants
Authors: MacDonald Bradley , Yim Deane , Ramsay James , Gill Andrew 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose
We aimed to assess the frequency and accuracy of neonatologist-performed cardiac ultrasound (NPCU) in detecting de novo congenital heart disease (CHD) in premature infants born at < 30 weeks of gestation.
Methods
This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on all NPCU studies performed at a tertiary-level neonatal department from January 2004 to June 2023. Clinicians completing the NPCU identified de novo suspected CHD at the time of the scan. All NPCUs were cross-checked with cardiology databases to confirm the final CHD diagnosis.
Results
A total of 3739 infants < 30 weeks’ gestation were admitted during the review period, 2088 (56%) of which received at least one NPCU; 294 (14%) were referred to pediatric cardiology and received an echocardiogram. CHD was confirmed in 109 of 2088 (5.2%) babies, 3 (3%) had critical disease, 8 (7%) had major cardiac anomalies, and 53 (49%) had non-major flagged CHD. No major or critical CHD was missed by the NPCU in the cohort.
Conclusion
De novo presentation of significant CHD still occurs in the preterm population and needs to be recognized by those performing NPCU. Ongoing training and collaboration with cardiology to optimize NPCU may provide benefits in the early referral and diagnosis of CHD.
Organizational learning capabilities, institutional knowledge, and FTA utilization of exporting SMEs in South Korea
Authors: Song Joon-Heon , Lee Kyoung-Joo 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The formation and transformation of international trade institutions have significant implications for the competitiveness of firms, and the adept utilization of free trade agreements (FTAs) represents a critical leverage point for exporting firms. Despite the business opportunities provided by FTAs, some firms take advantage of institutional benefits while others fail to do so. To explain these differences, this research conceptualizes institutional knowledge (IK) in the context of FTAs as a key organizational condition to gain competitive advantages. This study proposes a research model in which IK has a positive effect on FTA utilization, and organizational learning capabilities (OLC) positively affect SMEs’ IK. Based on a survey of exporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the agricultural and food sectors in South Korea, this study not only shows IK’s positive impact on FTA utilization by SMEs but also identifies OLC as an essential precursor to robust IK. This study fills a notable gap in international business research by underscoring the importance of IK in enhancing SMEs’ competitiveness internationally and offers fresh insights into the role played by OLC in enhancing IK to facilitate FTA utilization.
JEL Classification: F14, F23, M16
Challenges and innovations in the surgical treatment of advanced Dupuytren’s disease by percutaneous needle fasciotomy: indications, limitations, and medico-legal implications
Authors: Basile Giuseppe , Amadei Federico , Prevot Luca Bianco , Tronconi Livio Pietro , Ciccarelli Antonello , Bolcato Vittorio , Zaami Simona 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Dupuytren's disease, a chronic thickening and retraction of the palmar aponeurosis of the hands, may result in permanent and progressive flexion of one or more fingers. Percutaneous needle fasciotomy is a simple method that uses a hypodermic needle usually performed under local anaesthesia. The study aim was to report the postoperative results and complications using a percutaneous approach to treat Dupuytren's contracture in a consecutive series of patients with advanced Dupuytren’s disease, also considering the relevant medico-legal implications.
Methods
Retrospective multicentre study of all patients with Tubiana stage 3–4 Dupuytren's contracture treated with percutaneous needle aponeurotomy from 2012 to 2022. Patient demographics, disease severity, treatment-related complications, and the incidence of recurrence were identified. An overview of therapeutic treatment options has accounted for 52 relevant sources spanning the 2007–2023 time period.
Results
Overall, 41.7% (N = 200 ) of patients were females, the mean age was 72 years (60–89), the right hand was treated in 54.2% (N = 260 ) of patients. The little finger was involved in 50% of the patients. The 12 months mean PED was 9°, the mean quickDASH was 8, the mean URAM 6. Minor complications were reported in 18.7% (N = 90) of patients, typically skin lacerations (83.3%) with no clinical sequelae, and no major complications were reported. Recurrence occurred in 30% (N = 144) of patients.
Conclusions
Percutaneous needle fasciotomy is safe and reliable even in patients with advanced Dupuytren's disease, resulting in predictably acceptable outcome with low risk of complications.
Performance Evaluation of Recycled Coarse Aggregate Based Laterized Concretes
Authors: N Basavana Gowda S , C Rajasekaran , Yaragal Subhash C. , Hiremath Parameshwar 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In response to the pressing need to accommodate the rapidly growing global population, there has been a significant depletion of natural aggregates worldwide in recent years. The unregulated extraction of river sand from river belts has caused irreversible harm to ecosystems, including the potential elimination of local species. To ensure sustainable concrete construction, it is imperative to explore feasible alternatives to traditional building materials. By addressing the dual objectives of protecting the environment, which include the preservation of natural resources and the proper disposal of Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste, the essential objective is to increase the viability and inevitableness of recycling. It leads to energy saving in optimizing the shipment of natural aggregate to user sites and also economic factors constitute yet another incentive for recycling concrete waste. In the present study, the potential use of recycled coarse aggregates as a substitute to conventional granite coarse aggregates along with lateritic FA as fine aggregates in producing concretes is investigated. Examined is the apparent effect of RCA on the functionality of laterized concretes. The mechanical characteristics of concretes with various ratios of RCA and lateritic FA combinations are thoroughly investigated. An appropriate methodology is used to lessen the strength loss caused by the addition of recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) to concrete. The mechanical characteristics of concrete mixtures containing RCA and laterite have been shown to be comparable to those of conventional concrete. Durability property was assessed through RCPT test and RCA based laterized concretes showed promising results. Microstructure studies using a Scanning Electron Microscope validate the enrichment of compactness in the laterite-modified recycled aggregate concrete.
Rainwater harvest with desert-sand brick: an adaptive strategy in water resources management to climate change
Authors: Xu Xiangzhou , Liu Mingyang , Gao Hang , Xiao Peiqing , Zhang Yu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Urbanization causes many changes to the hydrological cycle, including radiation flux, precipitation amount, water evaporation and evapotranspiration, and soil infiltration. This study presents an adaptive strategy that aims to achieve efficient use of rainwater and realize sustainable development in the urban area by using desert sand. The permeable brick is made of desert sand, of which compressive strength is intensive, water permeability is high, and fabrication cost is low. Two water-permeable holes are included in the brick which is convenient for rainwater infiltration and maintenance of the permeable pavement. Experimental results show that the mean and maximum compressive strengths of the desert-sand bricks are 69.6 and 102.8 Mpa, which are 2.3 and 3.4 times of the strength required by the standard JC/T 945–2005, respectively. The fabrication cost of the water-permeable brick designed by the authors is only 12 US dollars/m2, which is much lower than that of the sand-based permeable bricks that already exist in the market. Hence, the kind of permeable brick can render substantial economic benefits and ecological improvements.
Clinical features and treatment of methylmalonic acidemia complicated with Dandy-Walker continuum: a report of 4 cases and review of literature
Authors: Wang Weiping , Zhou Yabing , Jiang Feng , Wei Jia , Feng Jiaqi , Mao Weiwei , Wang Xiaoqiang 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose
The clinical characteristics and treatment of the rare methylmalonic academia (MMA) with Dandy-Walker continuum (DWC) are still unclear. The purpose of this paper is to provide novel insights into the rare pediatric disease.
Methods
The database of MMA cases from pediatric intensive care unit of our hospital from 2006 to 2021 was chosen, from which cases combined with DWC were selected. The characteristics of onset age, clinical manifestations, gene types, treatment and prognosis of these cases were analyzed. The diagnosis of MMA was confirmed by blood and urine tandem mass spectrometry while the diagnosis of DWC was confirmed by cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Follow-ups were performed by means of telephone inquiry or outpatient visit.
Results
A total of 198 children with MMA were screened, 4 of whom were complicated with DWC including 3 males and 1 female. The average age of onset was 38 days (range 4–60 days). Vomiting (3/4) was the most obvious symptom. The head circumference was small in 2 cases while normal in the rest. The blood homocysteine was 130.8-187.3 umol/L, and the urine MMA was 24.5-236.1 mmol/mol·creatinine. Blood C3 and C3/C2 levels were significantly increased in 4 children. MRI showed that the cerebellar vermis was dysplastic, and cystic dilatation of the fourth ventricle caused upward displacement of the tentorium and sinuses. All the 4 children were treated with drugs and special milk powder for the primary disease. Case 3 suffered from acute intracranial pressure (ICP) increase during hospitalization, resulting in respiratory and circulatory failure, and was treated with dehydration, lowering ICP and ventilator-assisted ventilation. However, these measures had minimum effect, and the patient died of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome 27 days after admission. In case 1, 2, and 4, ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) was performed for the increased ICP. Case 1 died of respiratory failure 10 months after the operation, while case 2 died of severe pneumonia 96 months after the operation. Unlike the others, case 4 remained stable condition at the last follow-up of 32 months.
Conclusions
Concomitant DWC may be a clinical manifestation type of MMA, with early onset and severe conditions. The onset of increased ICP can often be seen. Head circumference can be in normal limits, and they can be manifested as hydrocephalus. VPS should be actively performed to treat hydrocephalus, relieve elevated ICP and improve the prognosis.
Interpretable AI/ML for High-stakes Tasks with Human-in-the-loop: Critical Review and Future Trends
Authors: Kovalerchuk Boris 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Domains with high-stakes tasks include medical diagnosis, financial decision-making, autonomous vehicles, criminal justice, disaster response, search and rescue operations, and others. In high-stakes tasks the effects of incorrect decisions or predictions can cause significant harm to individuals or society. This paper presents (1) major topics of research in interpretable AI/ML models for high-stakes tasks with human-in-the-loop, and (2) motivates and explains topics of emerging importance in this area. It is widely accepted that model explanations should accurately describe the model’s inner decision making and be convincing to the user. However, quite often these properties are missing. revealing only a quasi-explanation of the model, thus not serving the goal of true model explanation. This paper presents both benefits and deficiencies of current methods and ways to overcome deficiencies with a focus on high-stakes AI/ML tasks, where incorrect decisions or predictions can result in devastating consequences. While a human-in-the-loop is necessary for solving explainability problems, the success heavily depends on human cognitive abilities and limitations. This makes human visual knowledge discovery with granular computing critical for the progress of interpretable machine learning. Therefore, a significant part of the paper is devoted to presenting interpretable ML models built with human visual knowledge discovery methods.
First metagenomic sequencing for the analysis of microbial community population of Melophagus ovinus and pupae in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Huang Kaijun , Zhang Xing , Feng Qian , Sun Lu , Xiong Na , Zhao Xiaoqing , Zhou Kun , Wu Junyuan 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Melophagus ovinus, a parasite on the body surface of sheep, directly attacks the host through biting and sucking blood and may also transmit pathogens in the process. There are currently only a few studies on the microbial composition of M. ovinus, while there are no such studies on pupae.
Methods
M. ovinus adults and pupae were collected from four regions in Xinjiang, China. DNA was extracted from the samples, amplified, and sequenced using the Illumina Novaseq 6000 System; finally, the sequencing data were analyzed using molecular biology software.
Results
From all samples, a total of 32 phyla, comprising 372 genera and 1037 species, were detected. The highest microbial diversity was observed in Kuqa City (AT-2) and Qira County (AT-4). Pupae exhibited 40 unique microbial genera (AT-5) but did not have the highest microbial diversity.
Conclusions
Proteobacteria was the dominant phylum in all samples. The dominant genera included Bartonella, Wolbachia, Pseudomonas, and Arsenophonus. This is the first study to report most of the bacteria (e.g., Bartonella bovis and Arsenophonus nasoniae), fungi (e.g., Saitoella complicata), viruses (e.g., Orf virus and Wolbachia phage WO), and protozoa (e.g., Trypanosoma theileri and Trichomonas vaginalis) in M. ovinus.
Decoding Early-Onset of Colorectal Cancer: Insights into SERPINA3 Expression Patterns
Authors: Soman Anjana , Pradhan Tapas , R Krishna , Hermon Evangeline Surya , Somanathan Thara , G Jinto E , George Gejoe , Pothuraju Ramesh , Nair S. Asha 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Early-onset colorectal cancer(EOCRC), recognized as a distinct subgroup with an increased incidence over the past two decades, characterized by its aggressive nature and potentially unique molecular factors that differentiate it from traditional colorectal cancer(CRC). In this study, we investigated differentially expressed genes in a young-CRC patient using paired-end mRNA-sequencing. Validation of target genes through qRT-PCR highlighted a significant increase in SERPINA3 levels in EOCRC, representing a novel finding. Epithelial expression of SERPINA3 demonstrated a strong association with disease progression, whereas stromal expression showed a negative correlation. Our findings reveal the distinct expression patterns and potential involvement of SERPINA3 in both the initiation and progression of CRC, suggesting that SERPINA3 could serve as a marker for distinguishing early-onset from late-onset cases.
Determination of Selected Toxic Heavy Metals and Analysis of Proximate Composition in White Sugar Manufactured from the Omo Kuraz Sugar Factory in Ethiopia
Authors: Bekele Endalkachew Etana 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the concentration level of selected toxic heavy metals and analyze proximate parameters in white sugar products collected from Omo Kuraz sugar factory in Ethiopia. The white sugar samples were extracted by using single drop microextraction (SDME) prior to toxic heavy metal analysis by Atomic Absorption spectroscopy (AAS) following optimized extraction procedures. The results of protein, fat, fiber, moisture, total solid, ash and carbohydrate were found to be 1.07–1.57, 1.25–2.08, 0.132–0.281, 0.184–0.750, 99.3–99.8, 3.00- 4.66 and 91.7–93.2%, respectively. The average concentration of toxic heavy metals found in all white sugar samples were ranged as 0.217–0.617 and 0.054–0.508 mg/kg for Cd and Pb, respectively. The contribution of toxic elements Cd and Pb to the overall intake from the analyzed white sugar samples were below FAO/WHO recommended limit. Based on the current results, keeping close watch on these contaminants is recommended in order to guide consumers against the health risks associated with these toxic metals.