bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimating the Incidence and Prevalence of Dysphagia in New Zealand
Authors: Duncan Shnece , Menclova Andrea , Huckabee Maggie-Lee 
Published: January 2024

AbstractDysphagia imposes a substantial economic burden on global healthcare systems due to its pervasive, high-cost nature. To comprehend this burden, we must first assess dysphagia's prevalence and incidence in the general population. Existing studies on dysphagia prevalence encompass minor symptoms, while it is the severe cases that drive significant healthcare costs. We address this knowledge gap by estimating dysphagia incidence and prevalence in the New Zealand population, projecting future demographics of affected individuals. Incidence and prevalence rates of dysphagia within specific underlying medical conditions are sourced from existing literature. Median projected population estimates from Statistics New Zealand, by age, sex, and ethnicity are used to calculate dysphagia projections. Where possible, projections by age and ethnicity are provided until 2038 and projections by age and sex until 2073. In 2020, 9300 New Zealanders are estimated to have newly developed dysphagia while 1.5% of the general New Zealand population are estimated to have been living with the effects of the condition. By 2073, the number of individuals newly diagnosed annually is projected to increase to 24,500 and the prevalence of dysphagia is projected to increase to 2.6%. These results indicate that a significant number of New Zealanders are impacted by dysphagia. This number is predicted to dramatically increase in the future, mostly due to population ageing, indicating an increased burden on society and healthcare systems. Our work provides a useful starting point for countries worldwide to assess future healthcare resource demands associated with dysphagia, assisting with healthcare provision planning.
Considerations for establishing and maintaining international research collaboration: the example of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN)—a white paper
Authors: Alberti Paola , Argyriou Andreas A. , Bruna Jordi , Damaj M. Imad , Faithfull Sara , Harding Alice , Hoke Ahmet , Knoerl Robert , Kolb Noah , Li Tiffany , Park Susanna B. , Staff Nathan P. , Tamburin Stefano , Thomas Simone , Smith Ellen Lavoie 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Purpose
This white paper provides guidance regarding the process for establishing and maintaining international collaborations to conduct oncology/neurology-focused chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN) research.

Methods
An international multidisciplinary group of CIPN scientists, clinicians, research administrators, and legal experts have pooled their collective knowledge regarding recommendations for establishing and maintaining international collaboration to foster advancement of CIPN science.

Results
Experts provide recommendations in 10 categories: (1) preclinical and (2) clinical research collaboration; (3) collaborators and consortiums; (4) communication; (5) funding; (6) international regulatory standards; (7) staff training; (8) data management, quality control, and data sharing; (9) dissemination across disciplines and countries; and (10) additional recommendations about feasibility, policy, and mentorship.

Conclusion
Recommendations to establish and maintain international CIPN research collaboration will promote the inclusion of more diverse research participants, increasing consideration of cultural and genetic factors that are essential to inform innovative precision medicine interventions and propel scientific discovery to benefit cancer survivors worldwide.

Relevance to inform research policy
Our suggested guidelines for establishing and maintaining international collaborations to conduct oncology/neurology-focused chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN) research set forth a challenge to multinational science, clinical, and policy leaders to (1) develop simple, streamlined research designs; (2) address logistical barriers; (3) simplify and standardize regulatory requirements across countries; (4) increase funding to support international collaboration; and (5) foster faculty mentorship.
Impact of intratumoral microbiome on tumor immunity and prognosis in human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Abe Shohei , Masuda Atsuhiro , Matsumoto Tomonori , Inoue Jun , Toyama Hirochika , Sakai Arata , Kobayashi Takashi , Tanaka Takeshi , Tsujimae Masahiro , Yamakawa Kohei , Gonda Masanori , Masuda Shigeto , Uemura Hisahiro , Kohashi Shinya , Inomata Noriko , Nagao Kae , Harada Yoshiyuki , Miki Mika , Irie Yosuke , Juri Noriko , Ko Testuhisa , Yokotani Yusuke , Oka Yuki , Ota Shogo , Kanzawa Maki , Itoh Tomoo , Imai Toshio , Fukumoto Takumi , Hara Eiji , Kodama Yuzo 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Recent evidence suggests that the presence of microbiome within human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tissue potentially influences cancer progression and prognosis. However, the significance of tumor-resident microbiome remains unclear. We aimed to elucidate the impact of intratumoral bacteria on the pathophysiology and prognosis of human PDAC.

Methods
The presence of intratumoral bacteria was assessed in 162 surgically resected PDACs using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and in situ hybridization (ISH) targeting 16S rRNA. The intratumoral microbiome was explored by 16S metagenome sequencing using DNA extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues. The profile of intratumoral bacteria was compared with clinical information, pathological findings including tumor-infiltrating T cells, tumor-associated macrophage, fibrosis, and alterations in four main driver genes (KRAS, TP53, CDKN2A/p16, SMAD4) in tumor genomes.

Results
The presence of intratumoral bacteria was confirmed in 52 tumors (32%) using both qPCR and ISH. The 16S metagenome sequencing revealed characteristic bacterial profiles within these tumors, including phyla such as Proteobacteria and Firmicutes. Comparison of bacterial profiles between cases with good and poor prognosis revealed a significant positive correlation between a shorter survival time and the presence of anaerobic bacteria such as Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, and Peptoniphilus. The abundance of these bacteria was correlated with a decrease in the number of tumor-infiltrating T cells positive for CD4, CD8, and CD45RO.

Conclusions
Intratumoral infection of anaerobic bacteria such as Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, and Peptoniphilus is correlated with the suppressed anti-PDAC immunity and poor prognosis.
The effect of solution viscosity on the quality of electroactive nanofibers produced by electrospinning
Authors: Kočí Jan , Míka Havlík Martin , Procházka Václav , Klusoňová Nikola , Sedláčková Eliška 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis work describes the modification of organic–inorganic nanofibrous templates for advanced electrotechnical applications and their filling with active particles from various materials, according to their intended use. The organic component of the templates consists of high molecular polyvinylpyrrolidone. The inorganic part is colloidal SiO2. The organic–inorganic templates produce by electrospinning can be filled with inorganic particles with diameter below 50 µm (for example, different types of spinels or electroactive nanopowders). The idea is to create a modifiable and flexible material for use as a template for electrodes or a solid electrolyte in a safe solid-state battery. The quality and properties of nanofibers are very important for advanced applications, and therefore, the optimization of the manufacturing process is needed. The most important property is the viscosity of the organic–inorganic solution for electrospinning. The influence of viscosity on the quality of nanofibrous layers was observed even with very subtle differences in viscosity. The age of the precursors and the resulting workability time also plays a significant role.
Graphical abstract
Molar incisor hypomineralization and oral health-related quality of life: a sample of 8–12-years-old children
Authors: Kisacik Seyma , Ozler Cansu Ozsin , Olmez Seval 
Published: January 2024

AbstractObjectivesThe study aimed to evaluate the impact of molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) and tooth sensitivity on the oral health in terms of the quality of life (OHRQoL). In addition, the impact of tooth maturity on tooth sensitivity was evaluated in the study.Materials and methodsChildren aged 8–12 years with and without MIH participated in this descriptive cross-sectional study. They were chosen through the convenience sample technique. ThePediatric-Oral-Health-related-Quality-of-Life (POQL)scale was used to assess OHRQoL. The presence of the MIH and decayed, filled and missing teeth due to caries (using dmft/s, DMFT/S indexes) were recorded. The tooth sensitivity and dental maturity status were evaluated with theShiff-Cold-Air-Sensitivity-Scale (SCASS)andDemirjian-method, respectively. Statistical analysis of the data was performed by Pearson Chi-Square Test and Mann-WhitneyUtest (p<0.05).ResultsIn this study, the participants were a total of 260 children, half were affected by the MIH. Their mean POQL scores were higher than those of the children without MIH with a statistically significantly difference in the total child scale score (p=0.014). Among the children with the MIH, child total QoL score was found to be higher in SCASS positive response group (p=0.011). The teeth with MIH (p<0.001) showed higher response to the stimulus. According to the dental age and dental maturity categories of the children with MIH, the total child scale score was found to be higher in the SCASS category (p=0.011), and the response status to the SCASS was statistically significant (p=0.042 andp=0.05, respectively).ConclusionsAmong the children with MIH, the OHRQoL was found to be negatively affected. The teeth with the MIH tend to reveal more tooth sensitivity than healthy teeth. Many conditions such as having MIH, and tooth sensitivity might have an impact on the OHRQoL. In addition, more sensitivity to the stimulus was observed in the teeth with lower tooth maturity status; the dental age and dental maturity might have effects on tooth sensitivity.Clinical relevanceConsidering the negative impacts due to MIH, the evaluation of OHRQoL is critical for dentists to employ a well-defined guide in their clinical decisions.
Characterization of matrices with bounded Graver bases and depth parameters and applications to integer programming
Authors: Briański Marcin , Koutecký Martin , Král’ Daniel , Pekárková Kristýna , Schröder Felix 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAn intensive line of research on fixed parameter tractability of integer programming is focused on exploiting the relation between the sparsity of a constraint matrix A and the norm of the elements of its Graver basis. In particular, integer programming is fixed parameter tractable when parameterized by the primal tree-depth and the entry complexity of A, and when parameterized by the dual tree-depth and the entry complexity of A; both these parameterization imply that A is sparse, in particular, the number of its non-zero entries is linear in the number of columns or rows, respectively. We study preconditioners transforming a given matrix to a row-equivalent sparse matrix if it exists and provide structural results characterizing the existence of a sparse row-equivalent matrix in terms of the structural properties of the associated column matroid. In particular, our results imply that the $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

-norm of the Graver basis is bounded by a function of the maximum $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

-norm of a circuit of A. We use our results to design a parameterized algorithm that constructs a matrix row-equivalent to an input matrix A that has small primal/dual tree-depth and entry complexity if such a row-equivalent matrix exists. Our results yield parameterized algorithms for integer programming when parameterized by the $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

-norm of the Graver basis of the constraint matrix, when parameterized by the $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

-norm of the circuits of the constraint matrix, when parameterized by the smallest primal tree-depth and entry complexity of a matrix row-equivalent to the constraint matrix, and when parameterized by the smallest dual tree-depth and entry complexity of a matrix row-equivalent to the constraint matrix.
A new method to design energy-conserving surrogate models for the coupled, nonlinear responses of intervertebral discs
Authors: Hammer Maria , Wenzel Tizian , Santin Gabriele , Meszaros-Beller Laura , Little Judith Paige , Haasdonk Bernard , Schmitt Syn 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe aim of this study was to design physics-preserving and precise surrogate models of the nonlinear elastic behaviour of an intervertebral disc (IVD). Based on artificial force-displacement data sets from detailed finite element (FE) disc models, we used greedy kernel and polynomial approximations of second, third and fourth order to train surrogate models for the scalar force-torque -potential. Doing so, the resulting models of the elastic IVD responses ensured the conservation of mechanical energy through their structure. At the same time, they were capable of predicting disc forces in a physiological range of motion and for the coupling of all six degrees of freedom of an intervertebral joint. The performance of all surrogate models for a subject-specific L4$$\vert$$
|
5 disc geometry was evaluated both on training and test data obtained from uncoupled (one-dimensional), weakly coupled (two-dimensional), and random movement trajectories in the entire six-dimensional (6d) physiological displacement range, as well as on synthetic kinematic data. We observed highest precisions for the kernel surrogate followed by the fourth-order polynomial model. Both clearly outperformed the second-order polynomial model which is equivalent to the commonly used stiffness matrix in neuro-musculoskeletal simulations. Hence, the proposed model architectures have the potential to improve the accuracy and, therewith, validity of load predictions in neuro-musculoskeletal spine models.
Herpes zoster after the third dose of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-BNT162b2 vaccine in actively treated cancer patients: a prospective study
Authors: Nelli Fabrizio , Fabbri Agnese , Virtuoso Antonella , Giannarelli Diana , Marrucci Eleonora , Fiore Cristina , Giron Berrios Julio Rodrigo , Schirripa Marta , Signorelli Carlo , Chilelli Mario Giovanni , Primi Francesca , Panichi Valentina , Caterini Luciano , Farinelli Stefania , Silvestri Maria Assunta , Ruggeri Enzo Maria 
Published: January 2024

AbstractSeveral concerns have been raised about a causal relationship between COVID-19 mRNA-based vaccines and the development of herpes zoster (HZ). We performed a prospective analysis of the Vax-On-Third-Profile study to investigate the incidence of HZ after the third dose of mRNA-BNT162b2 (tozinameran) and its correlation with immune responses. Patients who had received a booster dose and had been actively treated for at least 8 weeks were eligible. Serologic assessment was performed before the third dose of tozinameran (timepoint-1) and 4 weeks later (timepoint-2). We also assessed the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections at predefined time points. The current analysis included 310 patients, of whom 109 (35.2%) and 111 (35.8%) were being treated with targeted therapies and cytotoxic chemotherapy, respectively. All participants received a third dose of tozinameran between September 26 and October 30, 2021. After a mean follow-up of 17.3 (IQR 15.1–18.4) months, HZ occurred in 8 recipients, for a cumulative incidence of 2.6%, and an incidence rate of 0.310 per person-year (95% CI 0.267–0.333). All HZ cases occurred within 30 days of booster dosing (range 5–29 days), with a median time to onset of 15 (IQR 9–22) days. Among the 7 patients (2.2%) who also contracted a SARS-CoV-2 infection, all cases preceded COVID-19 outbreaks. No instances of complicated HZ were reported. In multivariate analysis, impaired T helper and T cytotoxic cell counts independently correlated with HZ occurrence. These findings provide the first evidence that cancer patients on active treatment have a not negligible risk of developing HZ within 30 days after the third dose of tozinameran. The favorable clinical outcome of all observed cases confirms that protective effects of boosters in reducing the risk of severe COVID-19 outweigh the potential risk of HZ occurrence.
Humoral responses to wild type and ancient BA.1 SARS-CoV-2 variant after heterologous priming vaccination with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 and BNT162b2 booster dose
Authors: Sanna Giuseppina , Marongiu Alessandra , Firinu Davide , Piras Cristina , Palmas Vanessa , Galdiero Massimiliano , Atzori Luigi , Caria Paola , Campagna Marcello , Perra Andrea , Costanzo Giulia , Coghe Ferdinando , Littera Roberto , Chessa Luchino , Manzin Aldo 
Published: January 2024

AbstractSeveral countries have recommended a booster dose of Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccine for subjects under the age of 60, who have already received the first dose of ChAdOx1. This is due to several ChAdOx1 vaccine-associated adverse vascular events and thrombocytopenia. Neutralization assay and quantitative IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike antibody (anti-S-IgG) were conducted to investigate the long-term responses to vaccine treatment in a cohort of Sardinian participants, who have received heterologous Prime–Boost Vaccination via ChAdOx1 vector vaccine and a booster dose via BNT162b2. The obtained results were compared with those of a cohort of healthcare workers (HCW) who received homologous BNT162b2 (BNT/BNT/BNT) vaccination. One month (T2) and five months after the second and before the third dose (T3), anti-spike antibody or neutralizing titers in the subjects vaccinated with ChAdOx1-S/BNT162b2 were significantly higher than those who experienced the ChAdOx1-S/ChAdOx1-S or BNT162b2/BNT162b2 schedule. These results suggest that a ChAdOx1-S/BNT162b2 regimen provides a more robust antibody response than either of the homologous regimens. However, the anti-spike antibodies or neutralizing titers after the third injection (mRNA vaccine) of ChAdOx1-S as a second dose and BNT162b2 were not statistically different. Homologous and heterologous vaccination provided a strong antibody response. Neutralizing activities were also described against the Omicron BA.1 variant in a sub-group (40) representative of the three vaccination regimens among our cohort.
Towards interactive explanation-based nutrition virtual coaching systems
Authors: Buzcu Berk , Tessa Melissa , Tchappi Igor , Najjar Amro , Hulstijn Joris , Calvaresi Davide , Aydoğan Reyhan 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe awareness about healthy lifestyles is increasing, opening to personalized intelligent health coaching applications. A demand for more than mere suggestions and mechanistic interactions has driven attention to nutrition virtual coaching systems (NVC) as a bridge between human–machine interaction and recommender, informative, persuasive, and argumentation systems. NVC can rely on data-driven opaque mechanisms. Therefore, it is crucial to enable NVC to explain their doing (i.e., engaging the user in discussions (via arguments) about dietary solutions/alternatives). By doing so, transparency, user acceptance, and engagement are expected to be boosted. This study focuses on NVC agents generating personalized food recommendations based on user-specific factors such as allergies, eating habits, lifestyles, and ingredient preferences. In particular, we propose a user-agent negotiation process entailing run-time feedback mechanisms to react to both recommendations and related explanations. Lastly, the study presents the findings obtained by the experiments conducted with multi-background participants to evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of the proposed system. The results indicate that most participants value the opportunity to provide feedback and receive explanations for recommendations. Additionally, the users are fond of receiving information tailored to their needs. Furthermore, our interactive recommendation system performed better than the corresponding traditional recommendation system in terms of effectiveness regarding the number of agreements and rounds.
Monitoring genome-wide diversity over contemporary time with new indicators applied to Arctic charr populations
Authors: Saha Atal , Kurland Sara , Kutschera Verena E. , Díez-del-Molino David , Ekman Diana , Ryman Nils , Laikre Linda 
Published: January 2024

AbstractGenetic diversity is fundamental to the adaptive potential and survival of species. Although its importance has long been recognized in science, it has a history of neglect within policy, until now. The new Global Biodiversity Framework recently adopted by the Convention on Biological Diversity, states that genetic diversity must be maintained at levels assuring adaptive potential of populations, and includes metrics for systematic monitoring of genetic diversity in so called indicators. Similarly, indicators for genetic diversity are being developed at national levels. Here, we apply new indicators for Swedish national use to one of the northernmost salmonid fishes, the Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus). We sequence whole genomes to monitor genetic diversity over four decades in three landlocked populations inhabiting protected alpine lakes in central Sweden. We find levels of genetic diversity, inbreeding and load to differ among lakes but remain stable over time. Effective population sizes are generally small (< 500), suggesting a limited ability to maintain adaptive variability if genetic exchange with nearby populations became eliminated. We identify genomic regions potentially shaped by selection; SNPs exhibiting population divergence exceeding expectations under drift and a putative selective sweep acting within one lake to which the competitive brown trout (Salmo trutta) was introduced during the sampling period. Identified genes appear involved in immunity and salinity tolerance. Present results suggest that genetically vulnerable populations of Arctic charr have maintained neutral and putatively adaptive genetic diversity despite small effective sizes, attesting the importance of continued protection and assurance of gene flow among populations.
Cause for Concern? The Relationship Between Language Skills in Toddlers and Later Reading Skills in School
Authors: Joner Maya Dybvig 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The purpose of this longitudinal study is to investigate the association between poor language skills in toddlers and later reading skills. In contrast to earlier research, the present study used an authentic assessment of language skills conducted by staff in early childhood education and care as a tool for early identification. The participants were 515 Norwegian monolingual toddlers who were assessed when they were 33 months, 7 years, and 10 years. The results showed a small correlation between language skills identified at 33 months and later reading skills. The toddlers with the 10% poorest language skills were overrepresented in the 10% with the poorest decoding skills in 2nd grade and reading comprehension in 5th grade. Furthermore, 67.3% of toddlers with poor language skills attained below-average reading scores in 5th grade. These findings support the importance of paying attention to children in the lowest 10%, even at the age of 33 months. Furthermore, the results show that authentic assessments in the early years conducted by staff in early childhood education and care can make an important contribution to identifying toddlers in need of extra language stimulation in early childhood education.