bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intracranial stenosis prediction using a small set of risk factors in the Tromsø Study
Authors: Bernecker Luca , Johnsen Liv-Hege , Vangberg Torgil Riise 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) refers to a narrowing of intracranial arteries due to plaque buildup on the inside of the vessel walls restricting blood flow. Early detection of ICAS is crucial to prevent serious consequences such as stroke. Here we apply three different machine learning methods, such as support vector machines, multi-layer perceptrons and Kolmogorov-Arnold Networks to predict ICAS according to sparse risk factors from blood lipids and demographic data, including smoking habits, age, sex, diabetes, blood pressure lowering and cholesterol-lowering drugs and high-density lipoprotein. We achieved similar performance on classification compared to modern detection algorithms for ICAS in TOF-MRA (time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography). The prevalence of ICAS in the population is relatively low, which is often case in medicine. While in the medical research community, the issue of low prevalence is established, machine learning-based research in medicine often does not take into account a critical viewpoint of the prevalence in clinical settings of their methods. We showed that with a balanced training/test set an accuracy up to 81% was achievable, while with the inclusion of prevalence, the positive predictive value was at 19% to the prevalence data, changes the performance metrics. Therefore, we highlighted the discrepancy that can arise between the results reported by the models and their clinical relevance. Furthermore, the results demonstrate the predictive potential of limited risk factors, highlighting its potential contribution to a multi-modular classification algorithm based on MRAs.
Unraveling the role of satellite DNAs in the evolution of the giant XY sex chromosomes of the flea beetle Omophoita octoguttata (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Vidal Jhon Alex Dziechciarz , Charlesworth Deborah , Utsunomia Ricardo , Garrido-Ramos Manuel A. , dos Santos Rodrigo Zeni , Porto-Foresti Fábio , Artoni Roberto Ferreira , Liehr Thomas , de Almeida Mara Cristina , de Bello Cioffi Marcelo 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
The flea beetle Omophoita octoguttata (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) is a member of a group in which the males completely lack meiotic recombination (male-specific achiasmy) and that have extraordinarily large X and Y chromosomes. We combined genome sequencing, including microdissected Y and X chromosomes, and cytogenetic in situ hybridization studies, to evaluate the potential role of satellite DNAs (satDNAs) in the differentiation of those gigantic sex chromosomes.

Results
We report flow cytometry results showing that this species has a very large genome size (estimated to be 4.61 and 5.47 pg, or roughly 4.6 and 5.5 gigabases, for males and females, respectively), higher than the estimates from two other Alticinae species without giant sex chromosomes, suggesting that these sequences have greatly expanded on both the sex chromosomes, and that the Y has not greatly shrunk like the ones of other insects such as Drosophila with male achiasmy. About 68% of this large genome is made up of repetitive DNAs. Satellite DNAs (OocSatDNAs) form ~ 8–9% of their genomes, and we estimate how much of the sex chromosome expansions occurred due to differential amplification of different satellite classes. Analysis of divergence between sequences in the X and Y chromosomes suggests that, during the past roughly 20 mya, different OocSatDNAs amplified independently, leading to different representations. Some are specific to the Y or X chromosome, as expected when males are achiasmate, completely preventing genetic exchanges between the Y and X.
Measuring the quality of life of patients with diabetic retinopathy in northern India: a comparison of generic and vision specific instruments
Authors: Purohit Neha , Goyal Aarti , Gupta Vishali , Gupta Parul Chawla , Singh Prakash , Prinja Shankar 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Estimation of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in diabetic retinopathy (DR) patients is important to assess the impact of disease, to monitor the treatment outcomes, and conduct health technology assessments. The study aimed to measure the HRQoL in DR patients using the generic as well as disease specific instruments, identify the determinants of HRQoL, empirically investigate the concurrent validity between the QoL instruments, and to develop statistical approaches to map NEI-VFQ-25 (National Eye Institute- Visual Function Questionnaire- 25) composite score based on EQ-5D-5 L (EuroQol 5-dimensions 5-levels) utility values.

Methods
A facility based cross-sectional study was carried out to measure the HRQoL of 300 DR patients using EQ-5D-5 L, EuroQol visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS), and NEI-VFQ-25 instruments. Mean HRQoL scores, along with DR state specific and visual acuity specific utility values were analysed. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to ascertain concurrent validity between NEI-VFQ-25 composite score and its sub-scale scores, EQ-5D-5L index value, and EQ-VAS score. Lastly, we evaluated statistical models using predictor sets based on the EQ-5D-5 L utility scores to estimate NEI-VFQ-25 scores.

Results
The mean EQ-5D-5 L utility value for DR patients was 0.69 (95% CI: 0.65–0.73). The mean NEI-VFQ-25 composite score and EQ-VAS score were 61.1 (95% CI: 57.5–64.5), and 67.6 (95% CI: 65.6–69.5), respectively. Both EQ-5D-5 L and EQ-VAS had a strong concurrent validity with NEI-VFQ-25 composite score. ‘Tobit regression with log of composite score’ was assessed to the preferred model to predict the NEI-VFQ-25 composite score using EQ-5D-5L utility values.

Conclusion
Diabetic retinopathy has a decremental impact on quality of life, which increases with severity in vision loss. Both generic as well as disease-specific outcome measures are equally reliable to determine quality of life of patients with DR. The EQ-5D-5 L can be utilized for measurement of HRQoL in DR in clinical settings to optimize time of clinicians, with further derivation of NEI-VFQ-25 values through application of the crosswalk algorithm for predicting vision- related QoL.
Co-designing an intervention for cardiovascular disease risk assessment and management after hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in primary care
Authors: Slater Kaylee , Taylor Rachael , McLaughlin Karen , Pennell Craig E. , Forbes Karyn , Marcetic Milena , Collins Clare E. , Hutchesson Melinda 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Women with a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Although clinical practice guidelines for management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy recommend involvement of a general practitioner for ongoing cardiovascular disease preventative care, there are no intervention strategies embedded within primary care aimed at improving risk assessment or management for women after hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The study aim was to co-design an intervention to improve implementation of cardiovascular disease risk assessment and management following hypertensive disorders of pregnancy for primary care settings in a local health district in New South Wales, Australia.

Method
Using the Integrated Knowledge Translation framework, a series of five co-design meetings with the investigative team and end users were conducted online. Meetings were informed by the Behaviour Change Wheel framework for intervention development and incorporated research findings from a systematic review and meta-analysis, surveys and an online discussion. Data from activities and audio recordings following each meeting were analysed thematically using inductive–deductive thematic analysis. Results were summarized after each meeting, and findings used to inform ongoing intervention development.

Results
The 18 end users included women with lived experience of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (n = 8), obstetricians (n = 2), midwives (n = 5) and general practitioners (n = 3). Target priorities were to improve communication between hospital staff and general practitioners following the occurrence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and increase the knowledge of general practitioners and women regarding cardiovascular disease prevention after cardiometabolic pregnancy complications. Part 1 of the intervention is set within the hospital setting and delivered via physical resources to address the communication gap between hospital and primary care providers about the occurrence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Part 2 is delivered via an update to an existing general practice education platform and through resources for use within consultations to provide education for women and general practitioners about cardiovascular disease prevention after hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

Conclusion
The Integrated Knowledge Translation and Behaviour Change Wheel frameworks aided in the development of a targeted intervention to improve implementation of cardiovascular risk assessment and management for women after hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, based on gaps identified in current primary care practice.
Peripheral and central neuroimmune mechanisms in Alzheimer’s disease pathogenesis
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Gao Yue , Zhao Yini , Huang Timothy Y. , Zheng Qiuyang , Wang Xin 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) poses a growing global health challenge as populations age. Recent research highlights the crucial role of peripheral immunity in AD pathogenesis. This review explores how blood-brain barrier disruption allows peripheral immune cells to infiltrate the central nervous system (CNS), worsening neuroinflammation and disease progression. We examine recent findings on interactions between peripheral immune cells and CNS-resident microglia, forming a self-perpetuating inflammatory cycle leading to neuronal dysfunction. Moreover, this review emphasizes recent developments in the dysregulation of immune factors from both the periphery and CNS, and their impact on AD progression. With ongoing research and development of new therapeutic strategies, this review underscores the importance of modulating interactions between the peripheral immune system and CNS in AD therapy.
Sustainable management of tick infestations in cattle: a tropical perspective
Authors: Mollong Eyabana , Lébri Marius , Marie-Magdeleine Carine , Lagou Stéphanie Marianne , Naves Michel , Bambou Jean-Christophe 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
The increasing challenge of tick infestations in cattle production systems calls for innovative and sustainable solutions. This article explores the diverse ethnoveterinary practices and livestock farming systems prevalent in tropical regions, capitalizing on the characteristic biodiversity, to provide valuable insights and lessons for tick management at a global scale. Additionally, leveraging the genetic diversity of indigenous cattle breeds presents a promising approach for reducing reliance on chemical acaricides and fostering eco-friendly practices. While genomic selection is the cornerstone for addressing the polygenic nature of tick resistance, complementary genomic tools such as marker-assisted selection (MAS) can still play a valuable role. Integrating MAS and genomic tools could facilitate the development of tick-resistant cattle breeds, benefiting both tropical and temperate regions. Addressing challenges such as limited genomic resources, region-specific phenotyping methods, and the need for robust data infrastructure is essential for achieving tick management through genetic selection. Thus, tropical countries can contribute not only to their own livestock agriculture but also to global efforts in sustainable tick management. While some integrated approaches exist, further research is needed to objectively evaluate and optimize the combination of these different management strategies to effectively address tick challenges.

Graphical Abstract
Sex-specific effects of gastrointestinal microbiome disruptions on Helicobacter pylori-induced gastric carcinogenesis in INS-GAS mice
Authors: Peng Chao , Li Xin , Li Yu , Xu Xinbo , Ouyang Yaobin , Li Nianshuang , Lu Nonghua , Zhu Yin , He Cong 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Accumulating evidence indicates that the dysbiosis of gastrointestinal microbiota is associated with the development of gastric carcinogenesis. However, the sex-specific traits of gastrointestinal microbiota and their correlation with the sexually dimorphic response to gastric cancer remain poorly understood.

Methods
Male and female transgenic FVB/N insulin-gastrin (INS-GAS) mice as a model of gastric cancer were randomly administered Brucella Broth or Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Stomachs were evaluated by histopathology. The gastric inflammation was examined by immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining. Gastric mucosal and fecal samples were collected for microbiota analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results
Following H. pylori infection, male mice showed heightened inflammatory infiltration and notably greater intestinal metaplasia compared to female mice. The structure of gastrointestinal microbiota was different between male and female mice, with relative higher diversity in females than males. Notably, we found gender disparities in the alterations of gastric and intestinal microbiota in mice post H. pylori infection. While the enrichment of Bifidobacterium and Lachnospiraceae was observed in female mice, Escherichia_Shigella and Akkermansia were more abundant in males. Furthermore, the microbial profile was distinct in estrogen-deficient ovariectomized (OVX) mice, including the overgrowth of Akkermansia and the loss of Butyricicoccus. Infected OVX females developed significantly more severe gastric lesions, which was normalized through co-housing with intact females.

Conclusions
We have identified a novel microbiome-based mechanism that provides insight into the sexual dimorphism in the development of H. pylori-associated gastric cancer.
Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing of cell-free DNA unveils age-dependent and ALS-associated methylation alterations
Authors: Jin Yulin , Conneely Karen N , Ma Wenjing , Naviaux Robert K. , Siddique Teepu , Allen Emily G. , Guingrich Sandra , Pascuzzi Robert M. , Jin Peng 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in plasma carries epigenetic signatures specific to tissue or cell of origin. Aberrant methylation patterns in circulating cfDNA have emerged as valuable tools for noninvasive cancer detection, prenatal diagnostics, and organ transplant assessment. Such epigenetic changes also hold significant promise for the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases, which often progresses slowly and has a lengthy asymptomatic period. However, genome-wide cfDNA methylation changes in neurodegenerative diseases remain poorly understood.

Results
We used whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) to profile age-dependent and ALS-associated methylation signatures in cfDNA from 30 individuals, including young and middle-aged controls, as well as ALS patients with matched controls. We identified 5,223 age-related differentially methylated loci (DMLs) (FDR < 0.05), with 51.6% showing hypomethylation in older individuals. Our results significantly overlapped with age-associated CpGs identified in a large blood-based epigenome-wide association study (EWAS). Comparing ALS patients to controls, we detected 1,045 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in gene bodies, promoters, and intergenic regions. Notably, these DMRs were linked to key ALS-associated pathways, including endocytosis and cell adhesion. Integration with spinal cord transcriptomics revealed that 31% of DMR-associated genes exhibited differential expression in ALS patients compared to controls, with over 20 genes significantly correlating with disease duration. Furthermore, comparison with published single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-Seq) data of ALS demonstrated that cfDNA methylation changes reflects cell-type-specific gene dysregulation in the brain of ALS patients, particularly in excitatory neurons and astrocytes. Deconvolution of cfDNA methylation profiles suggested altered proportions of immune and liver-derived cfDNA in ALS patients.

Conclusions
cfDNA methylation is a powerful tool for assessing age-related changes and ALS-specific molecular dysregulation by revealing perturbed locus, genes, and the proportional contributions of different tissues/cells to the plasma. This technique holds promise for clinical application in biomarker discovery across a broad spectrum of neurodegenerative disorders.
[18F]FDG PET/CT identifies infectious and inflammatory foci in persistent critical illness
Authors: van Leer Bram , Haitsma Mulier Jelle L. G. , van Stee Cornelis P. , Demenaga Kiki M. , Slart Riemer H. J. A. , van Meurs Matijs , Glaudemans Andor W. J. M. , Nijsten Maarten W. N. , Derde Lennie P. G. , Pillay Janesh 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Purpose
Some ICU patients remain critically ill despite reversal of the original admission diagnosis, driven by a cascade of events resulting in new and persistent organ failure. Secondary infections and systemic inflammation are important components of this cascade and may be visualised using [18F]FDG PET/CT. The aim of this dual centre retrospective study was to assess the ability of [18F]FDG PET/CT to identify infectious and inflammatory foci in patients with persistent critical illness and to evaluate its impact on subsequent therapy management.

Methods
We included patients admitted to the ICU between 2017 and 2024, in whom a [18F]FDG PET/CT scan was performed ten days or more after ICU admission. [18F]FDG PET/CT reports were reviewed for diagnoses, and clinical records were reviewed to determine if this diagnosis was new, which diagnostics were performed before the PET/CT, and which therapeutic changes were made directly after the PET/CT. The relation between inflammatory parameters and [18F]FDG PET/CT findings were studied using t-test or ANOVA.

Results
Forty-seven patients with persistent critical illness were included from two university medical centres. The median interval between admission and PET/CT was 21 days (IQR 14–28). In 43 patients (91%) a potential infectious or inflammatory focus was detected, of which 34 (72%) were previously unknown. The [18F]FDG PET/CT was utilized late in the diagnostic work-up since a median of 7 (IQR 6.0–8.0) diagnostic procedures were performed prior to the PET/CT. In 26 (55%) patients therapy change was reported within 48 h after the PET/CT.

Conclusion
[18F]FDG PET/CT detected a considerable number of (new) infectious and inflammatory foci in patients with persistent critical illness, often followed by a change in therapy. Further research is needed to establish the role of [18F]FDG PET/CT in these patients.
Societies at risk: the correlation between intensity of armed conflict and child health during the civil war in South Sudan
Authors: de Groot Caroline , Alhaffar MHD Bahaa Aldin , Eriksson Anneli 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Armed conflict severely impacts children's health, leading to malnutrition and increased child mortality. The republic of South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 and suffered from seven-years civil war between December 2013–2021. The war led to mass population displacement both internally and externally and worsened the health status of the population, especially the children.

Aim
To investigate the effect of conflict intensity on global acute malnutrition and under-five crude mortality rate in South Sudan during the civil war between 2014–2021.

Methods
The study used an ecological panel data analysis of armed conflict data from Uppsala Conflict Data Program (UCDP) and child health data from Standardized Monitoring and Assessment of Relief and Transitions surveys conducted in 2014–2021. Child health is evaluated as global acute malnutrition (GAM) and under-five crude mortality rate (U5CMR). The study analyzed the correlation between the intensity of conflict and the prevalence of malnutrition and under-five crude mortality on a state level. Internal displacement and food prices were used as indirect effects of conflict. One year lag effect regressions were used to estimate potential correlation between child health and armed conflict.

Results
Total number of conflict related deaths between 2014–2021 was on best estimate (9,577), and on high estimate (13,178). The average GAM rate for the same period was (15.29%), and U5CMR was (0.77). Data analysis showed a significant correlation between the high estimate of conflict intensity with GAM (.047), and with U5CMR (.043). Internal displacement and food prices had a significant correlation with GAM (P = .048, P = .016), but no significant correlation was noticed with U5CMR. Best estimate of conflict intensity did not show a significant effect on children health variables.

Conclusion
The effect of conflict on children’s health outcome is complex and multifactorial. The high estimate of conflict intensity from UCDP showed significant correlation with the health outcome, while best estimate did not have significant correlation, this could be due to limited child health data, underreporting of conflict-related deaths, and a small sample size. The study suggests that other factors such as food prices and displacement might play an additional factor that increases the effect of conflict intensity on child health outcomes. The study underscores the challenge of data scarcity in researching health determinants in South Sudan.
The value of social networks for men: concurrent and prospective associations with psychological wellbeing
Authors: Mansour Kayla , Greenwood Christopher J , Francis Lauren M , Misuraca Gessica , Marabel-Whitburn Khya , Olsson Craig A , Macdonald Jacqui A 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
There is increased attention on psychological wellbeing as a public health priority. Here, we examine concurrent and prospective associations between social network connections and psychological wellbeing in a community sample of Australian men (n = 528).

Methods
In regressions, using generalised estimating equations (GEEs), we assessed associations between men’s social network connections and psychological wellbeing across five annual timepoints. Social network connections were indicated by time spent with friends, close and extended network size, and activities with friends (physical activity, drinking alcohol, helping with a task, and sharing a meal). Psychological wellbeing was indicated by Ryff’s scales of environmental mastery and purpose in life.

Results
Modelled concurrently, and longitudinally after adjusting for prior psychological wellbeing, time spent with friends and size of close and extended networks were positively associated with environmental mastery and purpose in life. In concurrent analyses, all activities except drinking with friends were positively associated with psychological wellbeing. Activities were not predictive longitudinally. Results did not differ by fatherhood or relationship status.

Conclusions
Given concurrent and future effects of social network connections on men’s wellbeing, public health investment in opportunities that improve men’s social connectedness are recommended.