bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and significance of incidental findings on 68 Ga-DOTA-conjugated somatostatin receptor-targeting peptide PET/CT: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Bentestuen Morten , Gossili Farid , Almasi Charlotte Elberling , Zacho Helle Damgaard 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Aim
We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of incidental 68 Ga-DOTA-conjugated somatostatin receptor-targeting peptide PET/CT (SSTR PET/CT) findings, their clinical significance in the need for follow-up, and their risk of malignancy.

Materials and methods
Studies reporting incidental SSTR PET/CT findings were systematically searched in PubMed, Cochrane, Embase and Web of Science literature published prior to 1st of May 2020. Studies were filtered by two independent readers for eligibility based on title and abstract, and subsequently on full text. The main exclusion criteria were: 1) pathological findings that matched scan indication, 2) known organ specific disease and/or incidental findings confirmed on other scan modality prior to SSTR PET/CT, 3) lack of diagnosis and/or follow up, and 4) results published in proceedings or conference abstracts.

Results
Twenty-one studies, comprising a total of 2906 subjects, were eligible for the analysis. Studies included were retrospective cohort studies on incidental SSTR PET/CT findings in a specific organ (n = 2888, 7/21) or case reports (n = 18, 14/21). A total of 133 subjects had incidental SSTR PET/CT findings. Incidental findings were predominantly seen in the thyroid gland (n = 65), spine (n = 30), brain (n = 26) and breast (n = 6). Seventeen of 133 (13%) incidental findings were malignant on final diagnosis. Incidental breast findings were associated with the highest risk of malignancy (67%). In the thyroid, incidental SSTR uptake was caused by malignancy in 8%, all presenting as focal uptake. The lowest risk was seen in the spine with a malignancy rate of 3% in patients with incidental SSTR uptake and benign cases were interpreted as vertebral hemangiomas on CT. Incidental SSTR PET/CT findings in other locations were of malignant etiology in two out of six cases (33%) and should be evaluated individually.

Conclusion
The most incidental SSTR PET/CT findings were found in the thyroid gland, spine, and brain. The risk of malignancy was greatest in incidental SSTR PET/CT findings in the breast, cranially, and thyroid gland. The results of the present study can prove useful in the interpretation of atypical findings on SSTR PET/CT and in the counseling of clinicians.
A multi-expert ensemble system for predicting Alzheimer transition using clinical features
Authors: Merone Mario , D’Addario Sebastian Luca , Mirino Pierandrea , Bertino Francesca , Guariglia Cecilia , Ventura Rossella , Capirchio Adriano , Baldassarre Gianluca , Silvetti Massimo , Caligiore Daniele 
Published: September 2022

AbstractAlzheimer’s disease (AD) diagnosis often requires invasive examinations (e.g., liquor analyses), expensive tools (e.g., brain imaging) and highly specialized personnel. The diagnosis commonly is established when the disorder has already caused severe brain damage, and the clinical signs begin to be apparent. Instead, accessible and low-cost approaches for early identification of subjects at high risk for developing AD years before they show overt symptoms are fundamental to provide a critical time window for more effective clinical management, treatment, and care planning. This article proposes an ensemble-based machine learning algorithm for predicting AD development within 9 years from first overt signs and using just five clinical features that are easily detectable with neuropsychological tests. The validation of the system involved both healthy individuals and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients drawn from the ADNI open dataset, at variance with previous studies that considered only MCI. The system shows higher levels of balanced accuracy, negative predictive value, and specificity than other similar solutions. These results represent a further important step to build a preventive fast-screening machine-learning-based tool to be used as a part of routine healthcare screenings.
Effect of fruit smoothie supplementation on psychological distress among people with substance use disorders receiving opioid agonist therapy: protocol for a randomised controlled trial (FruktBAR)
Authors: Fadnes Lars T. , Furulund Einar , Druckrey-Fiskaaen Karl Trygve , Madebo Tesfaye , Vold Jørn Henrik , Olsvold Maria , Pierron Marianne Cook , Carlsen Siv-Elin Leirvåg , Blomhoff Rune , Lid Torgeir Gilje ,   for the ATLAS4LAR Study Group, Buljovcic Vibeke Bråthen , Carlsen Siv-Elin Leirvåg , Daltveit Jan Tore , Druckrey-Fiskaaen Karl Trygve , Fadnes Lars T. , Fondenes Trude , Gundersen Per , Løberg Else-Marie , Nordbotn Mette Hegland , Olsvold Maria , Pierron Marianne Cook , Sundal Christine , Trettenes Beate Haga , Vold Jørn-Henrik , Bergsaker Maren Borsheim , Cruickshank Tine Selmer , Dahl Eivin , Eielsen Tone Lise , Fiskå Torhild , Furulund Einar , Holder Eirik , Lid Torgeir Gilje , Madebo Tesfaye , Wilk Ewa Joanna , Blomhoff Rune , Henriksen Hege Berg 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
People with substance use disorders generally have unhealthy diets, including limited intake of fruit and vegetables. Evidence shows substantial health benefits from increasing fruit and vegetable consumption on various indicators and possibly also psychological distress. A pilot study has indicated that supplementation with fruit smoothie could be promising also among people receiving opioid agonist therapy for opioid dependence. FruktBAR will compare the efficacy of added fruit smoothie supplementation to people receiving opioid agonist therapy compared to standard treatment without added supplementation.

Methods
FruktBAR is a multicentre, randomised controlled trial. The trial will aim to recruit 302 patients receiving opioid agonist therapy. The intervention involves daily supplementation with 250 ml fruit smoothie including a variety of fruits such as apple, pineapple, mango, bananas, orange, blueberries, passion fruit, coconut, lime, and blackcurrant. The main endpoints are 16 weeks after intervention initiation. Participants will be included and followed up during and after the intervention. The target group will be patients with opioid dependence receiving opioid agonist therapy from involved outpatient clinics in Bergen and Stavanger, two of the largest cities in Norway. The main outcome is psychological distress assessed with Hopkins Symptom Checklist (SCL-10) at the end of the intervention period 16 weeks after initiation, and will be compared between the intervention and control arms. Secondary outcome measures are changes in fatigue, physical functioning assessed with a 4-minute step-test, health-related quality of life, biochemical indicators of inflammation, and biochemical indicators of fruit intake.

Discussion
This study will inform on the relative advantages or disadvantages of fruit supplementation in addition to the current medically and psychologically oriented treatment of people receiving opioid agonist therapy. If the supplementation is efficacious, it can be considered for further scale-up.

Trial registration
Registered 2022-02-08 in ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT05229770.
Strengthening Mental Abilities with Relational Training (SMART) in multiple sclerosis (MS): study protocol for a feasibility randomised controlled trial
Authors: Golijani-Moghaddam Nima , Dawson David L. , Evangelou Nikos , Turton James , Hawton Annie , Law Graham R. , Roche Bryan , Rowan Elise , Burge Rupert , Frost Alexandra C. , das Nair Roshan 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition of the central nervous system, affecting around 1 in every 600 people in the UK, with 130 new diagnoses every week. Cognitive difficulties are common amongst people with MS, with up to 70% experiencing deficits in higher-level brain functions—such as planning and problem-solving, attention, and memory. Cognitive deficits make it difficult for people with MS to complete everyday tasks and limit their abilities to work, socialise, and live independently. There is a clear need—and recognised research priority—for treatments that can improve cognitive functioning in people with MS. The absence of effective cognitive interventions exacerbates burdens on the services accessed by people with MS—requiring these services to manage sequelae of untreated cognitive deficits, including reduced quality of life, greater disability and dependence, and poorer adherence to disease-modifying treatments. Our planned research will fill the evidence gap through developing—and examining the feasibility of trialling—a novel online cognitive rehabilitation programme for people with MS (SMART). The SMART programme directly trains relational skills (the ability to flexibly relate concepts to one another) based on theory that these skills are critical to broader cognitive functioning.

Methods
The primary objective of this study aims to conduct a feasibility study to inform the development of a definitive trial of SMART for improving cognitive functioning in people with MS. The secondary objective is to develop the framework for a cost-effectiveness analysis alongside a definitive trial, and the exploratory objective is to assess the signal of efficacy.

Discussion
As a feasibility trial, outcomes are unlikely to immediately effect changes to NHS practice. However, this is a necessary step towards developing a definitive trial—and will give us a signal of efficacy, a prerequisite for progression to a definitive trial. If found to be clinically and cost-effective, the latter trial could create a step-change in MS cognitive rehabilitation—improving service delivery and optimising support with limited additional resources.

Trial registration
Registration ID: ClnicalTrials.gov: NCT04975685—registered on July 23rd, 2021.
Protocol version: 2.0, 25 November 2021
A trial of intra-pleural bacterial immunotherapy in malignant pleural mesothelioma (TILT) — a randomised feasibility study using the trial within a cohort (TwiC) methodology
Authors: Bibby Anna C. , Zahan-Evans Natalie , Keenan Emma , Comins Charles , Harvey John E. , Day Helen , Rahman Najib M. , Fallon Janet E. , Gooberman-Hill Rachael , Maskell Nick A. 
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Background
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive thoracic malignancy with a poor prognosis. Systemic immunotherapy is an effective frontline treatment for MPM, and there is a scientific rationale supporting the possible efficacy of local, i.e. intra-pleural immune modulators. Trial of intra-pleural bacterial immunotherapy (TILT) investigated the feasibility of performing a randomised trial of intra-pleural bacterial immunotherapy in people with MPM, using the trials within cohorts (TwiC) methodology.

Methods
TILT was a multicentre, three-armed, randomised, feasibility TwiC of intra-pleural OK432, BCG, or usual care in people with MPM. Eligible participants were identified from within the ASSESS-meso study, a prospective, longitudinal, observational cohort study, and were randomly selected to be offered a single dose of OK432 or BCG, via an indwelling pleural catheter. The primary outcome was feasibility, evaluated against prespecified recruitment, attrition and data completeness targets. The acceptability of trial processes and interventions was assessed during qualitative interviews with participants and family members at the end of the trial. TILT was registered prospectively on the European Clinical Trials Registry (EudraCT number 2016–004,727-23) and the ISRCTN Register on 04 December 2017.

Results
Seven participants were randomised from a planned sample size of 12; thus, the 66% recruitment rate target was not met. Two participants withdrew after randomisation, breaching the pre-stated attrition threshold of 10%. It was not possible to maintain blinding of control participants, which negated a fundamental tenet of the TwiC design. The trial processes and methodology were generally acceptable to participants and relatives, despite several recipients of intra-pleural bacterial agents experiencing significant local and systemic inflammatory responses.

Conclusion
It was possible to design a clinical trial of an investigational medicinal product based on the TwiC design and to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals. However, whilst acceptable to participants and relatives, the TwiC design was not a feasible method of investigating intra-pleural bacterial immunotherapy in people with MPM. Future trials investigating this topic should consider the eligibility constraints and recruitment difficulties encountered.

Trial registration
TILT was registered prospectively on the European Clinical Trials Registry (EudraCT number 2016-004727-23) and the ISRCTN Register (10432197) on 04 December 2017.
Public Interest Group on Cancer Research: a successful patient–researcher partnership in Newfoundland and Labrador
Authors: Savas Sevtap , Etchegary Holly , Stuckless Teri , Whitten Cindy , Wiseman Jason , Bishop Derrick , King John , Cutting Janine , Peddle Darrell 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
Partnering with patients and family members affected by cancer is essential for meaningful research, public engagement and outreach, and advocacy activities.

Objective
Our objective was to create a public interest group through an academic–community partnership focused on cancer research and public engagement.

Methods
A purposeful recruitment process was implemented to ensure a diverse and inclusive group. The group meets virtually and communicates by email. The group’s activities focus on identifying the needs, priorities, and interests of cancer-affected individuals in the province; consultations; and designing research projects and public outreach activities together. Comprehensive meeting minutes are kept and used to distill discussion points. The work of the group is disseminated through a variety of channels.

Results
The public interest group includes 12 cancer patient and family member representatives, in addition to researchers. Discussions by the interest group identified key themes related to: (1) equity issues and regional disparity in provincial oncocare; (2) information needs; (3) need for patient empowerment and public understanding; and (4) family member and partner needs and experiences. To date, the group has co-designed a cancer research proposal and a public engagement/outreach activity. The group also provides consultations on cancer-related projects/public engagement activities and members act as patient partners in specific research and public engagement proposals. The group evolves over time, and increasingly advocates on behalf of cancer patients and families. Retention and satisfaction of the public partners with group activities have been high. The group’s work and findings are disseminated to the Provincial Cancer Care Program, as well as to public and scientific stakeholders through local media, academic conferences and presentations, and a dedicated website.

Conclusion
Public Interest Group on Cancer Research represents a highly successful patient–researcher partnership in oncology. It designs meaningful and patient-oriented studies and outreach activities in cancer. It also elevates and widely supports cancer patient and family voice.
Patients’ perspectives of home and self-assist haemodialysis and factors influencing dialysis choices in Singapore
Authors: Ang Yue Tein Irene , Gan Shien Wen Sheryl , Liow Chee Hsiang , Phang Chee Chin , Choong Hui Lin Lina , Liu Peiyun 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
The rise in end stage kidney disease (ESKD) prevalence globally calls for a need to deliver quality and cost-effective dialysis. While most are familiar with centre-based haemodialysis (HD), there is a move to increase uptake of home-based modalities (peritoneal dialysis (PD) or home haemodialysis (HHD)) and self-assist haemodialysis (SAHD) due to the economic, clinical and lifestyle advantages they confer. However, HHD and SAHD are not yet widely adopted in Singapore with majority of patients receiving in-centre HD. Although much research has examined patient decision-making around dialysis modality selection, there is limited literature evaluating patient’s perspectives of HHD and SAHD in Asia where the prevalence of these alternative modalities remained low. With this background, we aimed to evaluate patient’s perspectives of HHD and SAHD and the factors influencing their choice of dialysis modality in Singapore to determine the challenges and facilitators to establishing these modalities locally.

Methods
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 patients on dialysis from a tertiary hospital in Singapore in this exploratory qualitative study. Data collected from one-to-one interviews were analysed via thematic content analysis and reported via an interpretative approach.

Results
The findings were segregated into: (1) factors influencing choices of dialysis modality; (2) perspectives of HHD; and (3) perspectives of SAHD. Modality choices were affected by environmental, personal, social, financial, information and family-related factors. Most perceived HHD as providing greater autonomy, convenience and flexibility while SAHD was perceived as a safer option than HHD. For both modalities, patients were concerned about self-care and burdening their family.

Conclusions
The findings provided a framework for healthcare providers to understand the determinants affecting patients’ dialysis modality decisions and uncovered the facilitators and challenges to be addressed to establish HHD and SAHD modalities in Singapore.
Intradialytic parenteral nutrition using a standard amino acid solution not for renal failure in maintenance hemodialysis patients with malnutrition: a multicenter pilot study
Authors: Yasukawa Ryota , Hosojima Michihiro , Kabasawa Hideyuki , Takeyama Aya , Ugamura Daisuke , Suzuki Yoshiki , Saito Akihiko , Narita Ichiei 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
Standard amino acid solutions have recently been removed from the contraindications for use in dialysis patients in Japan. However, the details of their safety and efficacy in these patients are still not known. In this study, we investigated the safety and efficacy of intradialytic parenteral nutrition (IDPN) using ENEFLUID® injection containing standard amino acids, glucose, electrolytes, fats, and water-soluble vitamins in maintenance hemodialysis patients with malnutrition.

Methods
This clinical trial was designed as a multicenter, prospective, non-randomized, open-label, single-arm, observational pilot study. The participants were patients on maintenance hemodialysis who were in the nutritional high-risk group according to the Nutritional Risk Index for Japanese Hemodialysis Patients. One bag of ENEFLUID® injection was administered during every hemodialysis session for 12 weeks. The primary endpoint was change in serum transthyretin levels between before and after the 12-week period. As safety endpoints, we evaluated changes in body fluid volume and blood biochemical tests, including blood urea nitrogen and electrolytes, as well as blood glucose variability using flash glucose monitoring (FGM).

Results
The mean age and body mass index of the 13 participants were 79.0 ± 10.7 years and 18.0 ± 1.7 kg/m2, respectively. No significant changes were observed in nutritional parameters, including serum transthyretin, between before and after the start of the study. After IDPN initiation, there was no obvious fluid overload or significant changes in blood biochemical tests, including electrolytes, and the treatment could be safely continued for 12 weeks. In the FGM analysis, asymptomatic hypoglycemia during hemodialysis was observed at the beginning of the study, but there was a trend toward improvement after 12 weeks (area over the curve < 70 mg/dl per dialysis session: 747.5 ± 1333.9 to 21.6 ± 54.3, P = 0.09).

Conclusions
IDPN using ENEFLUID® injection can be safely continued, although it does not significantly improve markers of nutritional status. It also showed the potential to ameliorate asymptomatic hypoglycemia during hemodialysis sessions. More detailed studies of the improvement in nutritional indicators are needed.
Trial registration: This study was registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network-Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR) on May 9, 2021 (registration ID, UMIN000044051).
Thymic self-antigen expression for immune tolerance and surveillance
Authors: Benlaribi Rayene , Gou Qiao , Takaba Hiroyuki 
Published: September 2022

AbstractT cells are a group of lymphocytes that play a central role in the immune system, notably, eliminating pathogens and attacking cancer while being tolerant of the self. Elucidating how immune tolerance is ensured has become a significant research issue for understanding the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases as well as cancer immunity. T cell immune tolerance is established mainly in the thymic medulla by the removal of self-responsive T cells and the generation of regulatory T cells, this process depends mainly on the expression of a variety of tissue restricted antigens (TRAs) by medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs). The expression of TRAs is known to be regulated by at least two independent factors, Fezf2 and Aire, which play non-redundant and complementary roles by different mechanisms. In this review, we introduce the molecular logic of thymic self-antigen expression that underlies T cell selection for the prevention of autoimmunity and the establishment of immune surveillance.
Wakeful resting and listening to music contrast their effects on verbal long-term memory in dependence on word concreteness
Authors: Martini Markus , Wasmeier Jessica R. , Talamini Francesca , Huber Stefan E. , Sachse Pierre 
Published: September 2022

AbstractWakeful resting and listening to music are powerful means to modulate memory. How these activities affect memory when directly compared has not been tested so far. In two experiments, participants encoded and immediately recalled two word lists followed by either 6 min wakefully resting or 6 min listening to music. The results of Experiment 1 show that both post-encoding conditions have a similar effect on memory after 1 day. In Experiment 2, we explored the possibility that less concrete words, i.e. lower in imageability than in Experiment 1, are differently affected by the two post-encoding conditions. The results of Experiment 2 show that, when words are less concrete, more words are retained after 1 day when encoding is followed by wakeful resting rather than listening to music. These findings indicate that the effects of wakeful resting and listening to music on memory consolidation are moderated by the concreteness of the encoded material.