bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal assessment of diffusion-weighted imaging during magnetic resonance-guided radiotherapy in head and neck cancer
Authors: Boeke Simon , Habrich Jonas , Kübler Sarah , Boldt Jessica , Schick Fritz , Nikolaou Konstantin , Kübler Jens , Gani Cihan , Niyazi Maximilian , Zips Daniel , Thorwarth Daniela 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
For radiotherapy of head and neck cancer (HNC) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a pivotal role due to its high soft tissue contrast. Moreover, it offers the potential to acquire functional information through diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) with the potential to personalize treatment. The aim of this study was to acquire repetitive DWI during the course of online adaptive radiotherapy on an 1.5 T MR-linear accelerator (MR-Linac) for HNC patients and to investigate temporal changes of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of the tumor and subvolume levels.

Methods
27 patients treated with curative RT on the 1.5 T MR-Linac with at least weekly DWI in treatment position were included into this prospective analysis and divided in four risk groups (HPV-status and localisation). Tumor and lymph node volumes (GTV-P/GTV-N) were delineated on b = 500 s/mm2 images while ADC maps were calculated using b = 150/200 and 500 s/mm2 images. Absolute and relative temporal changes of mean ADC values, tumor volumes and a high-risk subvolume (HRS) defined by low ADC tumor voxels (600 < ADC < 900 × 10−6 mm2/s) were analyzed. Relative changes of mean ADC values, tumor volumes and HRS were statistically tested using Wilcoxon-signed-rank test.

Results
Median pretreatment ADC value for all patients resulted in 1167 × 10−6 mm2/s for GTV-P and 1002 × 10−6 mm2/s for GTV-N while absolute pretreatment tumor volume yielded 9.1 cm3 for GTV-P and 6.0 cm3 for GTV-N, respectively. Pretreatment HRS volumes were 1.5 cm3 for GTV-P and 1.3 cm3 for GTV-P and GTV-N. Median ADC values increase during 35 fractions of RT was 49% for GTV-P and 24% for GTV-N during RT. Median tumor volume decrease was 68% and 52% for GTV-P and GTV-N with a median HRS decrease of 93% and 87%. Significant differences from 0 for mean ADC were observed starting from week 1, for tumor volumes from week 2 for GTV-P and week 1 for GTV-N and for HRS in week 1 for GTV-P and week 2 for GTV-N.

Conclusion
Longitudinal DWI acquisition in HNC is feasible on a MR-Linac during the course of online adaptive MR-guided radiotherapy. Changes in ADC and volumes can be assessed, but future work needs to explore the potential for biologically guided treatment individualization.

Trial registration: NCT04172753, actual study start: 09.05.2018.
Circumstantial risk factors for death after intensive care unit-to-unit inter-hospital transfer—a Swedish registry study
Authors: Sternley Jesper , Stattin Karl , Petzold Max , Oras Jonatan , Rylander Christian 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Unit-to-unit transfer of critically ill patients infers hazards that may cause adverse events. Circumstantial factors associated with mortality after intensive care include days in the ICU, night-time or weekend discharge and capacity transfer as compared to other reasons for transfer. Distance travelled may also constitute an indirect risk. The aim of this study was to assess potential associations between these circumstantial factors and the risk of death 30 days after transfer.

Methods
Data from 2015 to 2019 was retrieved from the Swedish Intensive Care Registry. Logistic regression was used for risk analysis.

Results
Among 4,327 patients, 965 (22%) were deceased 30 days after transfer. 1351 patients undergoing capacity transfer had a higher morbidity than patients transferred for other reasons. Using univariable logistic regression, days spent in the referring ICU before transfer, capacity transfer as compared to clinical transfer and repatriation as well as SAPS3 in the receiving ICU were associated with a higher risk of death at 30 days. However, after multivariable regression with adjustment for ICD-10 diagnosis and Standardised Mortality Rate in the receiving ICU, these associations were lost.

Conclusion
Our results suggest that inter-hospital transfer is safe to carry out at any time of day and over shorter as well as longer distances.
Abnormal characteristics of inferior vena cava and abdominal aorta among neonates with early onset septic shock
Authors: Mi Lanlan , Liu Yiman , Bei Fei , Sun Jianhua , Bu Jun , Zhang Yuqi , Guo Weiwei 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
The variety of shocks in neonates, if not recognized and treated immediately, is a major cause for fatality. The use of echocardiography may improve assessment and treatment, but its reference values across gestational age (GA) and birth weight (BW) are lacking. To address the information gap, this study aimed at correlating GA and BW of newborns with nonhemodynamic abnormalities, and at evaluating the usefulness of such reference values in neonates with early onset septic (EOS) -shock.

Methods
A total of 200 normal newborns were enrolled as controls and subdivided into groups based on GA, BW, days of age, and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). Echocardiography was used to document inferior vena cava diameter (IVC), inferior vena cava collapsibility index (IVC-CI), and inferior vena cava to abdominal aorta ratio (IVC/AO). In addition, 18 neonates with EOS shock were recruited and evaluated using echocardiography.

Results
Among the control newborns, IVC and AO were significantly increased with GA and BW (P < 0.05) but IVC-CI and IVC/AO did not correlate with GA, BW, day of age, and PDA. Compared to the control group, the EOS-shock group had significantly decreased IVC and IVC/AO, and increased IVC-CI (P < 0.05). The cut-off values for indicating EOS-shock were > 34.15% for IVC-CI, < 47.58% for IVCmin/AO, and < 66.11% for IVCmax/AO.

Conclusions
The IVC-CI, IVCmin/AO, and IVCmax/AO indices are applicable to all neonates. Although the number of neonates with EOS-shock in our study is small, the cut-off values showed usefulness for diagnosis. Further research is needed to determine the application of the indices in a larger population and among other populations, especially for clinical application in treatment of shock among neonates.
Periapical bone edema volume in 3D MRI is positively correlated with bone architecture changes
Authors: Marka Alexander W. , Probst Monika , Greve Tobias , Lenhart Nicolas , Graf Niklas , Probst Florian , Andreisek Gustav , Frauenfelder Thomas , Folwaczny Matthias , Burian Egon 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objectives
To compare and correlate bone edema volume detected by 3D-short-tau-inversion-recovery (STIR) sequence to osseous decay detected by a T1-based sequence and conventional panoramic radiography (OPT).

Materials and methods
Patients with clinical evidence of apical periodontitis were included retrospectively and received OPT as well as MRI of the viscerocranium including a 3D-STIR and a 3D-T1 gradient echo sequence. Bone edema was visualized using the 3D-STIR sequence and periapical hard tissue changes were evaluated using the 3D-T1 sequence. Lesions were segmented and volumes were calculated for bone edema and structural decay. OPTs were assessed for corresponding periapical radiolucencies using the periapical index (PAI).

Results
Of the 42 patients of the initial cohort 21 patients with 38 periapical lesions were included in the analysis (mean age 57.2 ± 13.8 years, 9 women). Reactive bone edema was detected on MRI in 23 periapical lesions with corresponding radiolucency on OPT. Fifteen periapical lesions were detected only in the STIR sequence. The volume of edema measured in the STIR was significantly larger in OPT-positive lesions (mean: STIR (OPT+) 207.3 ± 191.1 mm³) compared to OPT-negative lesions (mean: STIR (OPT−) 29.5 ± 34.2 mm³, p < 0.001). The ROC curve analysis demonstrated that Volume T1 (0.905, p < 0.01) and Volume STIR (0.857, p < 0.01) measurements have strong diagnostic performance for distinguishing OPT-positive from OPT-negative lesions.

Conclusion
Clinically symptom-free patients without pathologic changes in OPT can show signs of inflammation within the periapical bone. Bone edema volume visualized by STIR sequence exceeds bone architecture changes indicated in T1-based imaging and might precede osteolysis in dental radiography.

Critical relevance statement
These results show that subtle intraosseous inflammation within the periapical tissue might remain undetected by conventional dental radiography and T1-based sequences. This emphasizes the potential of MRI in secondary prevention in dentistry.

Key Points

Conventional panoramic radiography (OPT) may show only delayed findings of pathological periapical changes.

MRI detected bone edema in 23 radiolucent lesions on OPT.

MRI revealed 15 lesions only visible with STIR sequences.

STIR sequences showed bone inflammation undetectable by conventional radiography or T1 imaging.

MRI offers diagnostic advantages for early dental pathology detection.

Graphical Abstract
mHealth Incentivized Adherence Plus Patient Navigation (MIAPP): protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial to improve linkage and retention on buprenorphine for hospitalized patients with methamphetamine use and opioid use disorder
Authors: Bhatraju Elenore P. , Kennedy Devin N. , Gojic Alexander J. , Iles-Shih Matthew , Merrill Joseph O. , Samet Jeffrey H. , Hallgren Kevin A. , Tsui Judith I. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Initiation of buprenorphine for treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) in acute care settings improves access and outcomes, however patients who use methamphetamine are less likely to link to ongoing treatment. We describe the intervention and design from a pilot randomized controlled trial of an intervention to increase linkage to and retention in outpatient buprenorphine services for patients with OUD and methamphetamine use who initiate buprenorphine in the hospital.

Methods
The study is a two-arm pilot randomized controlled trial (N = 40) comparing the mHealth Incentivized Adherence Plus Patient Navigation (MIAPP) intervention to treatment as usual. Development of the MIAPP intervention was guided by the information-motivation-behavioral skills model and combines financial rewards via mobile health-based adherence monitoring with the “human touch” of a patient navigator. Participants receive financial incentives for submitting videos of themselves taking buprenorphine via smartphone. The Patient Navigator reviews videos and provides treatment adherence coaching, care coordination and motivational enhancement. The intervention is introduced prior to hospital discharge and is offered for 30 days. The primary outcome is linkage to outpatient buprenorphine care within 30 days of hospital discharge. Secondary outcomes include retention on buprenorphine 90 days post discharge, hospital readmissions, and past 30-day methamphetamine use.

Discussion
Interventions are needed to increase linkage and retention to outpatient buprenorphine among hospitalized patients with OUD, especially for people who co-use methamphetamine. We will examine the MIAPP intervention to improve buprenorphine adherence and linkage to outpatient treatment in a pilot randomized controlled trial which will provide valuable insights about research approaches for hospitalized patients with substance use disorder.

Trial registration number: NCT06027814. Date of Initial Release: 08/30/2023. Protocol Version: 03/21/2024.
EZH2 inhibition induces pyroptosis via RHA-mediated S100A9 overexpression in myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Zhang Qi , Luo Yingwan , Ye Li , Wang Yuxia , Wang Lu , Yang Wenli , Lang Wei , Zhu Shuanghong , Jiang Lingxu , Jin Weimei , Mei Chen , Zhou Xinping , Ren Yanling , Ma Liya , Xu Gaixiang , Bowattage Bowatte Gedara Lakmal Vimukthi Band , Tong Hongyan , Sun Jie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) represent a group of heterogeneous myeloid clonal diseases derived from aberrant hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is an important regulator in gene expression through methyltransferase-dependent or methyltransferase-independent mechanisms. Herein, we found EZH2 inhibition led to MDS cell pyroptosis through RNA Helicase A (RHA) down-regulation induced overexpression of S100A9, a key regulator of inflammasome activation and pyroptosis. Moreover, EZH2 inhibitor reduced tumor burden and prolonged the survival of the mice transplanted with MDS cells. In summary, our results uncovered a novel pyroptosis pathway induced by EZH2 inhibition and provided a rationale for EZH2 inhibitor treatment in MDS.
A supervised model to identify wolf behavior from tri-axial acceleration
Authors: Lorand Charlotte , Bouet Léa , Devineau Olivier , Chimienti Marianna , Evans Alina L. , Callahan Peggy , Beckel Mark , Laske Timothy G. , Eriksen Ane 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
In wildlife studies, animal behavior serves as a key indicator of the impact of environmental changes and anthropogenic disturbances. However, wild animals are elusive and traditional GPS studies only provide limited insight into their daily activities. To address this issue, behavior classification models have increasingly been used to detect specific behaviors in wildlife equipped with tri-axial accelerometers. Such models typically need to be trained on data from the target species. The present study focuses on developing a behavioral classification model tailored to the grey wolf (Canis lupus) and encompassing a variety of ecologically relevant behaviors.

Methods
We collected data from nine captive wolves equipped with collar-mounted tri-axial accelerometers recording continuous acceleration at 32 Hz (“fine-scale”) and averaged acceleration over 5-min intervals (“activity”). Using simultaneous video observations, we trained Random Forest models to classify wolf acceleration data into specific behaviors. We investigated the potential limits to the generalizability of these models to unlabeled data through individual-based cross-validation.

Results
We present: (1) a model classifying fine-scale acceleration data (32 Hz) into 12 distinct behaviors (lying, trotting, stationary, galloping, walking, chewing, sniffing, climbing, howling, shaking, digging and jumping) with a class recall of 0.77–0.99 (0.01–0.91 in cross-validation), (2) a model classifying activity data (5-min averages) into 3 behavior categories (static, locomotion and miscellaneous) with a class recall of 0.43–0.91 (0.39–0.92 in cross-validation). Although classification performance decreased following cross-validation, recall scores for lying, trotting, stationary, galloping, walking and chewing individual behaviors (as well as static and locomotion categories) remained above 0.6. Classification performance was consistently poorer for rare behaviors, which constituted less than 1.1% of the training dataset.

Conclusions
We demonstrate the use of collar-mounted accelerometer to distinguish between 12 behaviors and 3 behavior categories in captive wolves, at fine-scale (32 Hz) and averaged 5-min resolutions, respectively. We also discuss the generalizability of the two models to free-ranging settings. These models can be employed to support future behavioral studies examining questions such as conflict mitigation, wolf responses to human disturbances, or specific activity budgets.
Exploring the impact of robot interaction on learning engagement: a comparative study of two multi-modal robots
Authors: Fung Ka Yan , Fung Kwong Chiu , Lui Tze Leung Rick , Sin Kuen Fung , Lee Lik Hang , Qu Huamin , Song Shenghui 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in using robots within educational environments due to their potential to augment student engagement and motivation. However, current research has not adequately addressed the effectiveness of these robots in facilitating inclusive learning for diverse student populations, particularly those with dyslexia. This study proposes an inclusive learning system developed on two multi-modal robots, Kebbi and Minibo, with interactive (i.e., movable hands) and straightforward features. The system integrates various interactive elements, such as animations, songs, dance, gestures, and touch, to enhance students’ learning engagement, interaction, and motivation and cater to their diverse needs. The study aims to examine the influence of different features from two unique multi-modal robots on the engagement levels of students with/without dyslexia and their needs when engaging with robot learning. Two research questions are posed: (1) What are the features of multi-modal robots that could effectively improve the learning engagements of students with/without dyslexia? (2) What are the needs of students with/without dyslexia when engaging with robot learning? To this end, a comparative study is conducted where 64 students participate in a five-day robot-led training program, while another 73 students receive traditional teacher-led training. Pre/post questionnaires are administered to evaluate students’ engagement levels, and semi-structured interviews are conducted to obtain additional insights. The findings reveal that students with dyslexia are better suited to the interactive and multi-modal features of Kebbi. In contrast, students without dyslexia may prefer the more straightforward features of Minibo, which can still effectively promote engagement and learning. Multi-modal robots can boost engagement and motivation in students with and without dyslexia through novelty and cognitive load management. Emotional connections and interactive elements, such as empathetic and customizable features, enhance engagement and improve learning outcomes.
Comparison of clinical and virological features in pediatric and adult dengue cases at Insein General Hospital during Myanmar’s 2022 dengue season
Authors: Lin Htin , Ngwe Tun Mya Myat , Zin Yin Mon Wint , Myint Khin Theingi , Khine Win Kay , Nwe Khine Mya , Thant Aye Aye , Shwe Thin Thin , Mar Win , Aye Khin Sandar , Aung Khaing Moe , Takamatsu Yuki , Aung Wah Wah , Kyaw Yi Yi , Urano Takeshi , Morita Kouichi , Thu Hlaing Myat 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Myanmar is one of the countries in Southeast Asia where serious dengue outbreaks occur and Yangon is among the regions with the highest number of cases in the country. Many infections including dengue are common in Yangon during the rainy season, and co-infections may also occur. Adults are more likely than children to experience co-infections of dengue and other diseases. Although pediatric dengue has been studied in Yangon for decades, research on adult dengue is scant. Therefore, this study compared the clinical and virological characteristics of pediatric and adult dengue cases in Yangon.

Methods
This cross-sectional study was conducted at Insein General Hospital in Yangon, Myanmar, from June to September 2022. We recruited 221 suspected dengue patients (134 children and 87 adults), with or without other diseases, and tested their dengue serological markers using a serological method and their dengue virus (DENV) serotypes using conventional RT-PCR. Chi-squared and Fisher’s exact tests were conducted to assess significance.

Results
The dengue non-structural protein-1 antigen (NS1Ag) positivity was 37% in children and 32% in adults. DENV serotypes were identified in 80% of NS1Ag-positive patients. Among NS1Ag-positive cases, the DENV-1 serotype predominated (67%), followed by DENV-2 (17%), DENV-3 (9%), DENV-4 (5%), and mixed DENV-1 and DENV-2 (2%) serotypes. Shock was observed in 14% of children and 3% of adults. Anti-dengue IgG antibody positivity was positively correlated with dengue shock. Three pediatric dengue cases (6%) also had other infections including bronchiolitis, ear infection, and diarrhea. Seven adult dengue cases (25%) also had other diseases including advanced HIV infection, severe pneumonia, tonsillitis, thyroid disease, cholecystitis, drug poisoning, and thalassemia.

Conclusion
The serotype distribution and clinical presentations of pediatric and adult dengue cases were not significantly different, but adults were more likely to have dengue together with other diseases than children. This study provides information for the better management of febrile children and adults in hospital settings and provides a foundation for nationwide epidemiological studies on dengue serotypes and modifications of the national guidelines for dengue management in Myanmar.
Emergence and expansion of dengue in Paltas: possible implications of the COVID-19 pandemic and climatic variations
Authors: Quintero Beatriz , Ramón-Ochoa Angélica X. , Morillo-Puente Solbey , Tenezaca-Ramón Daniel A. , Cevallos-Naranjo Alejandra S. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Dengue is one of the most widespread arboviruses in Latin America and is now affecting areas previously free of transmission. The COVID-19 pandemic and climatic variations appear to have affected the incidence of the disease, abundance of vectors and health programs related to dengue in some countries.

Objective
To analyze the epidemiology of dengue in Paltas, Ecuador (2016–2022), compare the periods before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, examine entomological reports and discuss the possible implications of the COVID-19 pandemic and climatic variations.

Methodology
In this observational, retrospective study, cases of dengue registered in the SIVE-Alert epidemiological surveillance system and the available larval indices were examined.

Results
No autochthonous cases were reported before 2016. Between 2016 and 2022, 182 cases without warning signs were reported, mostly in women (51.1%), people ≥ 20 years (68.7%) and people living in urban areas (78.6%). During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant decline in cases in urban areas, with displacement toward rural areas (p < 0.001). A clear pattern of dengue incidence was observed throughout the year, with a predominance (84.6%) in epidemiological weeks 16–39 (April–September), which coincided with the dry season in the region. In 2016 and 2018, larval rates were high in urban areas but decreased in 2019. Postpandemic incidence rates increased in urban and rural areas, even in areas without transmission of the disease.

Conclusions
There is a clear pattern of incidence of dengue in the dry season in the region. After the 2016 outbreak, larval cases and rates decreased, suggesting the effectiveness of vector control before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, during the pandemic there was a resurgence in dengue with expansion in rural and urban areas. The increase in larval rates during the COVID-19 pandemic, even in dengue-free areas, is worrisome. A critical challenge in the control of mosquito breeding sites is climatic variations, which increase the need to reserve water for domestic use.