bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transcriptional Profiling of Pituitary Adenoma Stem Cells: Unveiling the Pivotal Role of CXCR4 in Tumorigenesis and Clinical Applications
Authors: Yuan LinHao , Li BaoWang , Sui Huimin , Wang Xu , Li Jiang , Jia Guijun , Zhu Zhaohui , Li Deling , Jia Wang , Kang Peng 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background Growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma (GHPA) is characterized by excessive growth hormone production and leads to clinical manifestations like acromegaly. The molecular intricacies underpinning the tumorigenesis of this neoplasm remain largely elusive, with tumor stem cells postulated to play a significant role. Method Human pituitary adenoma stem cells (hPASCs) were extracted and cultured from eight GHPA clinical samples. RNA-sequencing was performed to discern genetic disparities between hPASCs and matched bulk tumor samples. Primary clusters of protein-protein interaction network were mapped using MCODE plugin in Cytoscape. The functional role of CXCR4 was assessed by both siRNA and antagonist AMD3465 in GH3 cells or primary hPASCs. Seven GHPA patients received PET/CT scan using CXCR4-based tracer 68Ga-pentixafor. Results HPASC culture was established and verified. A total of 685 differentially expressed genes were identified between hPASC and bulk tumor samples. Four primary protein-protein interaction network clusters were predicted, each demonstrating distinct biological functions. CXCR4 knockdown significantly attenuated GH3 cell proliferation and the hormone production. CXCR4 antagonist AMD3465 markedly reduced cell proliferation during differentiation of hPASCs. PET/CT imaging showed 68Ga-pentixafor can be a superior tracer in the detection of GHPA in the patients. Conclusion This study delivers a comprehensive genetic profiling of hPASCs and substantiates the critical role of CXCR4 in tumorigenesis, highlighting its considerable diagnostic potential in the translational research.
Multiple Evanescent White Dot Syndrome Misdiagnosed as as Atypical Optic Neuritis
Authors: Han Kwang Eon , Lee Seung Min , Kim Su-Jin , Choi Heeyoung , Choi Jae Hwan 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
We report a case of multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS) masquerading as atypical optic neuritis in a young female patient.
Case presentation:
A 23-year-old female presented with ocular pain and visual field defect in her left eye for one week. Her best corrected visual acuity was 20/20 on her right eye and 20/30 on her left eye. Pupillary size was 3 mm for both eyes. Relative afferent pupillary defect was detected on the left eye. Color vision test was normal for both eyes. Visual field test revealed blind spot enlargement on the left eye. On fundus examination, disc swelling was found on the left eye. Other abnormalities were not found. The patient was suspected with atypical optic neuritis. Fluorescein angiography showed hyperfluorescent spots in the posterior pole and leakage of disc on the left eye. Orbital magnetic resonance imaging did not show any abnormal findings or enhancement. Multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) showed reduced amplitude for the involved area. There were relatively hyper-autofluorescence lesions outside fovea and hypo-autofluorescent fovea in blue light fundus autofluorescence (BL-FAF) image. En face optical coherent tomography (OCT) revealed multiple hyporeflective dots at the ellipsoid zone (EZ). Swept-source-OCT (SS-OCT) showed irregular cells in the EZ with increased outer retinal thickness. On repeated fundus examination, multiple white dots were found vaguely. The patient was diagnosed with MEDWS and was able to recover in six weeks.
Conclusions
Patients with MEDWS who present with disc swelling, ocular pain, and RAPD might be misdiagnosed as optic neuritis. In atypical optic neuritis, en face OCT, BL-FAF and SS-OCT can aid in the differential diagnosis.
Relationships among premonitory urge, tics, and quality of life in drug-naive children with tic disorders: a mediation analysis of a Chinese sample
Authors: Wang Xianbin , Xu Hui , Li Yanlin , Hu Shujin , Yang Kai , Zhang Wenyan , Jiang Zhongliang , Cui Yonghua , Li Ying 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background: This study explores the relationship among premonitory urges (PU), tic severity, and quality of life in individuals with tic disorders (TD).
Methods: Clinical data from 1204 drug-naive TD patients aged 6-16 were collected, including the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS), Premonitory Urge to Tic Scale (PUTS), and Tourette-Quality of Life Scale (GTS-QOL). Patients were categorized into PU (PUTS > 12) and non-PU (NPU, PUTS ≤ 12) groups. Logistic regression assessed age and gender's influence on PU presence. Correlation and mediation analyses were performed.
Results: Among 911 PU and 293 NPU patients, significant differences (p < 0.05) existed in age, YGTSS, GTS-QOL scores, excluding cognitive and physical factors. Sex differences were insignificant (p = 0.228). Age was a significant predictor for PU (OR = 1.127, p = 0.001). Tic-related impairment did not mediate (p > 0.05) the PU-quality of life relationship. Vocal tics mediated (p < 0.05) overall quality of life, while motor tics mediated (p < 0.05) the PU-quality of life link.
Conclusions: PU incidence in TD increases with age, predicting higher tic severity and reduced quality of life. Motor and vocal tics, but not tic-related impairment, mediate the PU-quality of life effect. Targeting PU, motor tics, or vocal tics in therapies may enhance TD patients' quality of life.
Spatiotemporal trends and driving factors of pine wilt disease in China
Authors: Du Jingjing , Wu Zongren , Zhang Chao , Yu Ailin , Li Ping , Luo Youqing , Shi Juan 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Bursaphelenchus xylophilus is considered the most serious invasive alien species threatening China's forestry ecology and economy. Since it first invaded China in 1982, it has spread to 18 provinces in 2020. In order to clarify its spatial distribution and drivers of range expansion, we collected census data of pine wilt disease (PWD) from 2010 to 2020, as well as climate and anthropogenic active data. The results of centroid analysis of PWD-affected region in China showed that the center of PWD occurrence was located at about 29°~29.5°N in northern Jiangxi Province. The comparison of the north-south boundary and centroid of the distribution area of B.xylophilus in North America (the native range) and China showed that the centroid of B.xylophilus in China was more southerly by about 10.52°, and its northern boundary in China was comparitively south of its native range, indicating the potential that B.xylophilus will continue to spread northwards in the future. The impact of climate (temperature, precipitation, wind speed) and anthropogenic factors (road network density, gross product) on PWD was analyzed using a random forest classification model. The results show that temperature and road network density have a significant impact on PWD damage density. The influence of precipitation, wind speed and gross production value on PWD damage density was not significant. The study provided a theoretical basis for PWD prevention and control in areas with similar geographical environments.
The Potential Association between Metabolic Disorders and Pulmonary Tuberculosis: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Du Zhi-xiang , Ren Yun-yao , Li Shun-xin , Wang Jia-luo , hu Yi-fan , Wang Li , Chen Miao-yang , Li Yang , Hu Chun-mei , Yang Yong feng 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Background: Metabolic disorders (MetD) have been demonstrated to be closely linked to numerous diseases. However, the precise association between MetD and pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) remains poorly understood.
Method: The summary statistics from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for exposures and outcomes were obtained from the BioBank Japan Project (BBJ) Gene-exposure dataset. The fourteen metabolic factors were grouped into four categories: metabolic laboratory markers, blood pressure, anthropometric measurements, and metabolic diseases. The causal relationship between the metabolic factors and PTB was analyzed using two-sample MR. Additionally, the direct effects on the risk of PTB were investigated through Multivariate MR. The primary method employed was the inverse variance-weighted (IVW) model. The sensitivity of this MR analysis was evaluated using MR-Egger regression and the MR-PRESSO global test.
Results:
In two-sample MR, HDL-C, HbA1c, TP, and DM were positively correlated with the incidence of active TB. After adjusting for other laboratory markers, The combined odds (ORs) of PTB were 2.798(95%CI 1.484-5.274 P=0.001), 4.027(95%CI 1.140-14.219, P=0.03), 2.548(95%CI 1.269-5.115, P=0.009) for one SD increase in HDL-C, LDL, and TG, respectively. And TC (OR 0.131, 95%CI 0.028-0.607, P=0.009) was negatively correlated with PTB. We select BMI, DM, HDL-C, SBP, and TG as the diagnosis factors for metabolic syndrome. The combined ORs of PTB were 1.219 (95%CI 1.040-1.429 P=0.014) and 1.380(95%CI 1.035-1.841, P=0.028) for one SD increase in DM and HDL-C, respectively.
Conclusions: This MR study demonstrates that metabolic disorders, mainly hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia, are associated with the incidence of active pulmonary tuberculosis.
Simulation and experimental study on the bidirectional composite vibratory finishing characteristics
Authors: Yang Yingbo , Li Wenhui , Wang Xiuzhi , Li Xiuhong , Yang Shengqiang 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

As a novel high efficiency collaborative surface finishing technology of structure shape and surface integrity, bidirectional composite vibratory finishing (BCVF) can be applied to finish various complex components. The movement behavior of abrasive particles is closely related to the machined part performance. The flow characteristics of particles were analyzed based on the discrete element method (DEM), which reveals that the granular temperature can explain the changes in the normal and tangential cumulative contact energy on the workpiece surface. In addition, the normal contact force on the container sidewall and the pressure distribution on the workpiece surface were tested under different process parameters and the results were compared with DEM simulations. The results show that DEM model accurately predicted the particle-wall normal contact force frequency content, and the dominant frequencies are the container driving frequency and its multiplication. Meanwhile, the pressure-sensitive film can clearly and intuitively demonstrate the integrated action behavior of the particles on the workpiece surface. The overall trends of the measured pressure were comparable to the simulation results, in that the pressure increased significantly with vibration frequency and amplitude. Dimensionless vibration velocity amplitude has been verified effective in analyzing the combined effect of vibration frequency and amplitude. Therefore, it is shown that spherical particle in simulation can predict some critical properties in non-spherical processing, which provides a reference for the extended application of the BCVF process.
Electric Field Simulation and Appropriate Electrode Positioning for Optimized Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation of Stroke Patients: An In Silico Model
Authors: Yoon Mi-Jeong , Park Hye Jung , Yoo Yeun Jie , Oh Hyun Mi , Im Sun , Kim Tae-Woo , Lim Seong Hoon 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) has benefits for motor rehabilitation in stroke patients, but its clinical application is limited due to inter-individual heterogeneous effects. Recently, optimized tDCS that considers individual brain structure has been proposed, but the utility thereof has not been studied in detail. We explored whether optimized tDCS provides unique electrode positions for each patient and creates a higher target electric field than the conventional approach. A comparative within-subject simulation study was conducted using data collected for a randomized controlled study evaluating the effect of optimized tDCS on upper extremity function in stroke patients. Using Neurophet tES LAB 3.0 software, individual brain models were created based on magnetic resonance images and tDCS simulations were performed for each of the conventional and optimized configurations. A comparison of electrode positions between conventional tDCS and optimized tDCS was quantified by calculation of Euclidean distances. A total of 21 stroke patients were studied. Optimized tDCS produced a higher electric field in the hand motor region than conventional tDCS, with an average improvement of 20%. The electrode montage for optimized tDCS was unique to each patient and exhibited various configurations that differed from electrode placement of conventional tDCS. Optimized tDCS afforded a higher electric field in the target of a stroke patient compared to conventional tDCS, which was made possible by appropriately positioning the electrodes. Our findings may encourage further trials on optimized tDCS for motor rehabilitation after stroke.
Cuckoo search algorithm with ensemble strategy and the application in chaotic time series prediction
Authors: Cheng Jiatang , Lin Qiuhong , Xiong Yan 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Cuckoo search (CS) algorithm is a simple and effective search technique. However, CS algorithm may suffer from premature convergence as the complexity of the problem increases. To address this challenge, a cuckoo search algorithm with ensemble strategy, called CSES, is presented to strengthen the convergence performance. Specifically, three new search strategies with diverse properties are designed to well balance the trade-off between global exploration and local exploitation. After that, according to the idea of selective ensemble, a priority roulette method is employed to select the appropriate search strategy at different stages of the evolution process, so as to produce more promising results. To investigate the comprehensive performance of CSES algorithm, extensive experiments are carried out on 53 benchmark functions and three chaotic time series prediction problems. Simulation results illustrate that the proposed CSES is superior to six recently developed CS variants and several other advanced evolutionary algorithms.
Outcomes of Lateral Approach in Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: Insights from a Single-Surgeon experience
Authors: Giulioni Carlo , Castellani Daniele , Vuong Nam-Son , Riviere Julien , Piechaud-Kressmann Julie , Lopez Laurent Hugo , Piechaud Thierry , Roche Jean-Baptiste , Rouffilange Jean , Hoepffner Jean-Luc , Galosi Andrea Benedetto , Gaston Richard Pierre , Pierquet Grégory 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Objective: In the era of robotic prostate surgery, various techniques have been developed to improve functional outcomes. Urinary continence has shown satisfactory results, but the preservation of lateral nerves to the periprostatic capsule is only achievable by sparing the pubovesical complex. This study aims to present the first cases of lateral-approach robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (LRRP) performed by a novice surgeon.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 70 prostate cancer patients who underwent LRRP between October 2019 and September 2021, analyzing the perioperative and functional outcomes.
Results: The median operative time and intraoperative blood loss were 102 (92-108) minutes and 150 (130-180) mL, respectively. Five minor postoperative complications were reported, and the median hospital stay was 2 (1-2) days. Eleven positive surgical margins occurred. Potency and urinary continence recovery were achieved in 59 (84%) and 66 (94%) patients, respectively, 12 months after surgery.
Conclusions: Our analysis shows that LRRP is a safe and effective procedure for prostate cancer surgery. Continence recovery and potency recovery required a short learning curve, with an acceptable recovery rate even in the initial cases.
Development of an integrated machine learning-based approach utilizing NK cell marker genes for prostate cancer prognosis and treatment response characteristics
Authors: Maimaitiyimin Abudukeyoumu , An Hengqing , Xing Chen , Li Xiaodong , Li Zhao , Bai Junbo , Luo Cheng , Zhuo Tao , Huang Xin , Maimaiti Aierpati , Aikemu Abudushalamu , Wang Yujie 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Despite prostate cancer's (PCa) highly variable behavior and unclear response to immunotherapy, the importance of NK cells isn't comprehensively studied. Our study aimed to use a robust computational framework to consider NK cell marker gene signatures (NKCMGS) from 1,072 global PCa patients, intending to establish a reliable biomarker that can prognose and predict immunotherapy response.
Methods
NK cell-related biomarkers were studied in PRAD patients from six worldwide cohorts, creating a reliable NKCMGS biomarker using 101 genes and varied machine learning techniques. NKCMGS was further analyzed immunologically, providing new immunotherapy response and prognosis perspectives.
Results
The NKCMGS integrated 13 key genes, effectively classifying patients into high- and low-risk groups. Survival curves drawn from NKCMGS scores, age, T stage, and Gleason scores, established the reliable prognostic trait of NKCMGS. Biologically, high-scored NKCMGS indicated enhanced fatty acid and β-alanine metabolism pathways, while low scores showed enrichment in DNA repair and replication, homologous recombination, and cell cycle pathways. Moreover, low-risk patients demonstrated higher drug sensitivity, thus suggesting the potential of NKCMGS in predicting immune checkpoint inhibitor effectiveness.
Conclusion
Our robust machine learning framework, integrated with NKCMGS, show significant potential for providing personalized risk assessment and valuable treatment strategies for PCa patients.
Concealing bad news: clinicians’ lived experience of a cultural dilemma
Authors: Holmes Sophie Nilusha , Forbes Karen , Illing Jan 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Introduction
When asked to conceal bad news from patients, clinicians face a professional dilemma. In many geographical settings, patients’ relatives commonly ask doctors to hide serious diagnoses. Although well-intentioned, the practice is known to create suffering, impacting on the patient, their caregivers and the healthcare team. Our study deepens existing understanding through uncovering clinicians’ lived experience, with the goal of informing training to tackle this professional challenge.
Methods
Recognising that this practice varies significantly internationally, we recruited clinicians who had experienced two cultures: medical students receiving a UK curriculum, in Malaysia and the UK, and UK-based international medical graduates (IMGs). Twenty-six medical students and sixteen IMGs participated. Drawing on phenomenology, we used focus groups and semi-structured interviews.
Results
For our participants, concealing diagnoses created three major sources of suffering: moral discomfort, dilemma and powerlessness. Sympathetic distress at the impact on the patient was marked. However, conflicting personal values created uncertainty, in part rooted in misplaced fear that diagnostic disclosure may harm the patient. Even when our participants wanted to disclose bad news, feeling under-equipped for communication challenges and facing coercion, they experienced a sense of powerlessness.
Discussion
The crucial initial step is for medical education to acknowledge that requests to conceal bad news happen. We need to provide a communication strategy for tackling this phenomenon, which upholds the patient’s right to knowledge while maintaining collaboration and trust with the family. Above all, this dilemma highlights the need for globalised education to revitalise medical ethics, expanding cultural humility and curriculum decolonisation.
Unveiling convergent and divergent intrinsic brain network alternations in depressed adolescents engaged in non-suicidal self-injurious behaviors with and without suicidal attempts
Authors: Li Linling , Liang Zhen , Li Guohua , Xu Hong , Yang Xing , Liu Xia , Zhang Xin , Wang Jianhong , Zhang Zhiguo , Zhou Yongjie 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) and suicidal attempt (SA) frequently occur during depressed adolescents, but the underlying neurobiological mechanisms are poorly understood. The maturation of network connectivity is a central feature of brain development during adolescence. However, few researchers have investigated the similarities and differences in the intrinsic brain networks between NSSI with NSSI + SA in depressed adolescent populations. We collected self-reported questionnaires and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data from a sample of depressed adolescents, categorized into three groups: clinical control (non-self-harm), NSSI-only, and NSSI + SA based on self-harm history. The alternations of FC patterns were identified through support vector machine-based classification. The alternations of intra-/inter-network FCs among the Control, SalVAtten, Limbic, and Default networks were observed as the convergent alternations between adolescent NSSI with or without a history of SA. Divergent alternations were also observed for depressed adolescents with a history of SA, involving the Limbic, DorsAttn, Visual, and Subcortical networks. The severity of depressive symptoms only showed a significant correlation with altered FCs in Limbic-DorAttn and Limbic-Visual networks, strengthening the fact that these observed alternations of FC could not all be explained by increased depression severity. The observed convergent alternations may explain an underlying neurobiological mechanism pertaining to the continuum of self-destructiveness; the discovery of divergent alternations could help to identify biomarkers that will aid in differentiating those at risk for SA and contribute to the development of neurobiologically informed interventions.
Functional correlation tensors in brain white matter and the effects of normal aging
Authors: Xu Lyuan , Gao Yurui , Li Muwei , Lawless Richard , Zhao Yu , Schilling Kurt , Rogers Baxter , Anderson Adam , Ding Zhaohua , Landman Bennett , Gore John 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Resting state correlations between voxels in white matter (WM) are demonstrably anisotropic, which has led to the derivation of functional correlation tensors (FCT) to quantify the structure of blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) effects in WM tracts. However, the reproducibility of FCTs across brains has not been established, while changes in WM occur with normal aging, development and in neurological disorders. For example, previous research has demonstrated severe age-related changes in the microstructure of the brain, including axonal demyelination in WM. Here we report our analyses of the FCT characteristics of fMRI images of a large cohort of 461 cognitively normal subjects (190 females, 271 males) sourced from the Open Access Series of Imaging Studies (OASIS), with age distributions of 42 y/o – 95 y/o. FCT indices, including axial functional correlations, radial functional correlations, mean functional correlations and fractional anisotropy, were quantified in WM bundles defined by the JHU ICBM-DTI-81 WM atlas, and their variations with normal aging were examined. The results revealed a dimorphic distribution of changes in FCT metrics, with decreases of the functional correlations in some regions and increases in others. Significant correlations between FCT findings and neuropsychological scores were also observed in several WM tracts, indicating relationships between cognitive performances and resting-state correlations. These findings converge to suggest that local functional connectivity of brain WM changes with normal aging in a region-, and age-specific manner.