bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Left Ventricular Outflow Indices in Chronic Systolic Heart Failure: Thresholds and Prognostic Value
Authors: Dini Frank L. , Barletta Valentina , Ballo Piercarlo , Cioffi Giovanni , Pugliese Nicola Riccardo , Rossi Andrea , Bajraktari Gani , Ghio Stefano , Henein Michael Y. 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTBackground and AimsThe assessment of left ventricular (LV) outflow velocity time integral (LVOT‐VTI) has gained favor in the stratification of patients with heart failure (HF). We evaluated the prognostic significance of LVOT‐VTI compared with the commonly used indices of LV outflow: cardiac index (CI) and stroke volume index (SVI), their reproducibility and cut‐off values.Methods and ResultsA total of 424 outpatients diagnosed with HF and LV systolic dysfunction (LV ejection fraction < 50%) underwent a Doppler echocardiographic examination, including the assessment of CI, SVI, and LVOT‐VTI. The Bland–Altman analysis showed LVOT‐VTI the most reproducible outflow index. The study follow‐up duration was 3.5 years (interquartile range 1.6–6.5), at the end of which there were 94 cardiovascular deaths (29%). Cox regression univariate analysis showed that LVOT‐VTI was the most predictive of the study end‐point. The ratio of tricuspid annular displacement‐to‐pulmonary artery systolic pressure (TAPSE/PASP) (p < 0.0001), LVOT‐VTI (p = 0.0011), and end‐systolic volume index (p = 0.0036) independently predicted the study end‐point. At receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, LVOT‐VTI < 12.0 cm had the best sensitivity and specificity for predicting cardiovascular mortality. Reduced LV EF (p = 0.0011), raised BNP levels (p = 0.0053), and high LV filling pressure (p = 0.044) were associated with low LVOT‐VTI in multivariate logistic regression analysis. Patients with low LVOT‐VTI and TAPSE/PASP < 0.32 mm/mmHg exhibited the worst prognosis on Kaplan–Meier survival curves (p < 0.0001).ConclusionsA LVOT‐VTI < 12.0 cm represents the best predictor of the cardiovascular outcome and proved the most reproducible index of LV forward flow in patients with chronic HF and systolic dysfunction. The combination of impaired LVOT‐VTI with TAPSE/PASP showed the worst survival.
Focal to bilateral tonic–clonic seizures in newly diagnosed focal epilepsy
Authors: Agashe Shruti , Cascino Gregory D. , Devinsky Orrin , Barnard Sarah , Gidal Barry , Abou‐Khalil Bassel , Holmes Manisha G. , Fox Jonah , Klein Pavel , Pellinen Jacob , French Jacqueline A. ,   the Human Epilepsy Project
Published: February 2025

AbstractPresence of focal to bilateral tonic–clonic seizures (FBTCS) in focal epilepsy is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Risk factors for FBTCS are poorly understood, and little is known regarding FBTCS recurrence after treatment initiation. This study aimed to investigate factors related to FBTCS in newly diagnosed focal epilepsy and their recurrence after starting antiseizure medications (ASMs) in the Human Epilepsy Project (HEP) cohort. HEP was an international, prospective cohort study that enrolled people with newly diagnosed focal epilepsy within 4 months of treatment initiation and followed them for up to 6 years. Baseline characteristics, treatment choices, and seizure outcomes were collected. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was conducted to assess the differences between study participants who had FBTCS and those who never experienced FBTCS. A total of 443 participants were included in this analysis; 77% (n = 342) had FBTCS at some point prior to or within the study period. In participants with FBTCS, regardless of initial seizure type, diagnosis was mostly made after FBTCS (335/342, 98%). After treatment initiation, FBTCS did not recur in 57% (n = 194/342) of cases. A higher number of total pretreatment seizures (median = 16 vs. 11, p = .048, Mann–Whitney U‐test), predominantly focal aware seizures (FAS) or focal impaired awareness seizures (FIAS; median = 15 vs. 10, p = .049, Mann Whitney U‐test), was associated with no recurrence in FBTCS after treatment initiation. Of 108 participants without FBTCS prior to treatment, only seven (6%) developed FBTCS after treatment initiation. There was no significant difference in choice of initial ASM class (levetiracetam vs. sodium channel blockers) between participants who experienced FBTCS and those who did not. This study highlights the significance of FBTCS among individuals with newly diagnosed focal epilepsy. The majority of participants who experienced FBTCS were diagnosed with epilepsy after experiencing their first FBTCS despite preceding FAS/FIAS. The more frequent FAS/FIAS in participants whose FBTCS resolved may be a characteristic of their epilepsy.
Role of single‐nucleotide pleomorphism microarray in the classification of BAP1‐inactivated melanocytic tumours
Authors: Durgin Joseph S. , Zoumberos Nicholas A. , Novice Taylor , Fullen Douglas R. , Hristov Alexandra C. , Lowe Lori , Patel Rajiv M. , Harms Paul W. , Andea Aleodor A. , Bresler Scott C. 
Published: February 2025

AimsBAP1‐inactivated melanocytic tumours (BIMTs) occur sporadically and in association with a familial tumour predisposition syndrome involving germline mutations in the BRCA1‐associated protein‐1 (BAP1) gene. Here we report the clinical features, histopathologic findings, and chromosomal copy number data of 19 BAP1‐inactivated melanocytomas (BIMs) and compare their features to those of five BAP1‐inactivated melanomas.MethodsWe retrospectively searched the Department of Pathology archives and EMERSE (Electronic Medical Record Search Engine) for BIMTs that had undergone single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarray testing. Clinical history/follow‐up data, detailed histopathologic features, and SNP microarray results were recorded.ResultsOverall, four patients (4/13) with BIMs and available clinical history had features suspicious for a germline BAP1 aberration. In BIMs (19 cases), the BAP1‐inactivated component showed variable cytologic features, including epithelioid (predominant), rhabdoid, plasmacytoid, and nevoid morphologies. Sentinel lymph node biopsy was negative in all (6/6) patients in which this procedure was performed. No patient diagnosed with a BIM with available clinical follow‐up (18/19; mean 38 months) experienced an adverse event. While the histologic appearances of the five melanomas varied, one case resembled a BIM. The median mitotic count was 1/mm2 (range 0–6 mm2) in BIMs compared to 3/mm2 (range 1–4/mm2) in melanomas (P = 0.04). The median number of copy number alterations (CNAs) was two (range 0–6) in indolent cases versus seven (range 6–10) in melanomas (P = 0.0005). The most common molecular aberration after loss of 3p21 was heterozygous loss of the CDKN2A locus, which unlike homozygous loss has not been associated with melanoma.ConclusionWhile most BIMs appear to have a favourable prognosis, even those with multiple CNAs, they deserve careful integration of all clinical and pathologic findings. Although not fully diagnostic, a mitotic count of ≥3/mm2 and ≥6 CNAs in the appropriate context is supportive of a diagnosis of BAP1‐inactivated melanoma.
Associations between country of birth, migration status and engagement in HIV care among gay and bisexual men living with HIV in Australia, 2019–2022
Authors: Yu Simin , MacGibbon James , Bavinton Benjamin , Smith Anthony K. J. , Rule John , Mao Limin , Broady Timothy R. , Holt Martin 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBackgroundIn the last decade, while HIV diagnoses have declined among Australian‐born gay and bisexual men (GBM), they have declined much less among migrant GBM, with recently arrived GBM facing particular challenges, such as access to HIV treatment. This study assessed HIV care cascade (treatment) outcomes among GBM living with HIV in Australia by migration status.MethodsData were collected in national cross‐sectional behavioural surveillance surveys during 2019–2022. HIV cascade outcomes were stratified by country of birth and length of residency in Australia, examining HIV clinical appointments in the previous year, being on antiretroviral treatment (ART) and achieving an undetectable viral load. Percentages were calculated with the previous cascade step as the corresponding denominator.ResultsBetween 2019 and 2022, 32 236 GBM completed surveys, including 2533 (7.9%) people living with HIV (PLWH). Among 2188 PLWH reporting migration/residency status, 72.2% were Australian‐born, 13.3% were from high‐income English‐speaking countries, 13.0% were non‐recently arrived migrant GBM from other countries and 1.5% were recently arrived in Australia (<2 years). Median ages for the four groups were 50, 51, 41 and 34 years, respectively. Recently arrived PLWH were the most likely to be recently diagnosed (<2 years, 15.2% vs. <5% in the other groups). The HIV cascade of care, treatment, and viral suppression differed by migration status (p < 0.001): Australian‐born, 92.5%, 96.9% and 94.6%, respectively; born in high‐income‐English‐speaking countries, 91.8%, 97.4%,9 8.9%; non‐recently arrived, 93.7%, 95.1%, 96.8%; and recently‐arrived, 90.9%, 90.0%, 100%. Recently‐arrived PLWH were less likely to be on treatment, but all those on treatment achieved viral suppression.ConclusionsEngaging and supporting recently arrived PLWH in Australia to access ART and relinking PLWH disengaged from care remains crucial.
Explaining the Association Between Number of Teeth and Frailty in Older Chinese Adults: The Chain Mediating Effect of Nutritional Status and Cognitive Function
Authors: Wang Yanan , Fan Lifang , Zhou Hui , Zhang Meimei , Wang Tianyan , Sheng Ying , Zhu Yuelan 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTAimsThe objective of this research is to investigate the association between the number of teeth and frailty in the geriatric population.DesignThis cross‐sectional study was conducted in Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, from May 2021 to September 2021.MethodsA cohort of 538 community‐dwelling older adults aged 60 years or above was included in the analysis. The Tilburg Frailty Indicator, Mini‐Mental State Examination and Mini Nutritional Assessment Short‐Form were employed to assess frailty, cognitive function and nutritional status, respectively. The statistics software SPSS v21.0 and its process plug‐in were employed for statistical analysis, and the significance of intermediary effects was tested using the bootstrap sampling test method and the process plug‐in.ResultsThe number of teeth influenced frailty through three mediating pathways: (a) nutritional status (effect = −0.038); (b) cognitive function (effect = −0.021); (c) nutritional status and cognitive function combined (effect = −0.038). The total mediating effect accounted for 50.26% of the overall effect.ConclusionThese findings highlight the need to raise awareness of oral health care among older adults and implement comprehensive interventions to promote active aging and improve their overall well‐being.
Optimising Potassium Levels Improved the Lodging Resistance Index and Soybean Yield in Maize‐Soybean Intercropping by Enhanced Stem Diameter and Lignin Synthesis Enzyme Activity
Authors: Gu Yan , Guo Danyang , Li Chenyang , Zheng Cong , Li Xiang , He Fangming , Tang Qingquan , Yu Jia , Ren Hong 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTLodging is a major factor limiting soybean yield in maize–soybean intercropping system (IS). Potassium fertilisation significantly enhances the lodging resistance index by promoting dry matter accumulation in soybean. However, the physiological mechanisms through which potassium affects the lodging resistance index remain unclear, particularly under different planting systems. In this study, we analysed the relationships between photosynthetic characteristics, root system, stem physiology, stem morphological characteristics, dry matter and lodging resistance index of soybean based on field experiments. The soybean cultivar Jinong 40 was used in both maize–soybean intercropping (maize: soybean as 6:6) and monoculture soybean systems (MS) in a two‐year field experiment (2022–2023), with five potassium fertilisation levels (0 kg ha−1, 30 kg ha−1, 60 kg ha−1, 90 kg ha−1 and 120 kg ha−1). Potassium application significantly improved chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, dry matter accumulation, stem lignin synthesis enzyme activity (phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase, tyrosine ammonia‐lyase and cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase), lodging resistance index and grain yield, regardless of the planting system. However, no significant differences in lodging resistance index or grain yield were observed between the potassium rates of 90 kg ha−1 and 120 kg ha−1. Compared to 0 kg ha−1, increased potassium rates increased stem diameter by 17.8% and 15.5%, while the ratio of stem length to stem diameter ratio (L/D) decreased by 27.2% and 26.8% in maize–soybean intercropping and monoculture soybean systems, respectively. Across the high potassium inputs (90 kg ha−1 and 120 kg ha−1), phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (2.6%) and cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (3.9%) were higher in the maize–soybean intercropping system compared to the monoculture soybean system. For the two planting patterns, the lodging resistance index was found to be more dependent on stem enzyme activity (93.5% for IS and 75.3% for MS) and L/D ratio (−81.0% for IS and −83.8% for MS), rather than stem length or root characteristics. We conclude that potassium application optimises stem diameter, enhances stem lignin synthesis and reduces the L/D ratio, therefore improving the soybean lodging resistance index and yield, especially in the maize–soybean intercropping system.
Properties and Behavior of Additively Manufactured Provisional Fixed Dental Prostheses: A Systematic Review on 3D Printing Orientations Relative to Applied Materials and Postprocessing
Authors: Alghauli Mohammed Ahmed , Almutairi Shahad , Almuzaini Sarah , Aljohani Rola , Aljohani Waad , Alqutaibi Ahmed Yaseen 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTObjectivesThis systematic review aimed to assess the influence of printing orientations alone and with other parameters, such as applied material and postprocessing, on the physical‐mechanical properties and mechanical behavior of provisional fixed dental prostheses (FDPs).Materials and MethodsA comprehensive search of websites such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane was conducted in July 2024. Adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, the studies that investigated the impact of printing orientations on the physical and mechanical properties were included in this review. The modified CONSORT statement was utilized for the risk of bias assessment. A total of 24 records were included; the main build‐up angles were horizontal, oblique, and vertical (0°, 45°, and 90°), and other angles such as 30° and 150° were also reported. The data focused on the impact of orientation on 3D‐printed products from different materials, applying various postcuring times and artificial aging. Horizontally printed specimens exhibited significantly superior mechanical properties and behavior compared with other angles, while vertically printed specimens displayed the lowest results. Additionally, the material type, amount, and type of fillers and postcuring had the most substantial impacts; zirconia fillers showed more enhanced strength compared to silica fillers, and the mechanical behavior was enhanced with postcuring time of up to 120 min. Optical properties were more related to the materials and technology applied than to printing directions. Polishing of the products enhances surface quality and removes differences from various orientations. Resin specimens exhibited a high susceptibility to staining, irrespective of printing orientation. Furthermore, aging significantly influenced the mechanical properties, gloss, and surface quality of the specimens.ConclusionsTo achieve high‐quality provisional FDPs, it is essential to select a horizontal orientation. Careful selection of materials is necessary, as well as adherence to optimal printing parameters. 3D‐printed resin may not yet be suitable for permanent rehabilitation; however, it is appropriate for short‐ and long‐term temporization.Clinical SignificanceThe production of dental parts is shifting to additive manufacturing; it is crucial to understand the impact of various parameters on the physical and mechanical behavior of dental parts, particularly provisional restorations, to ensure their durable clinical service.
Assessment of tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 (TFPI2) as a novel serum marker for malignant tumors of the ovary before and after treatment: A case‐control study
Authors: Ogawara Yuki , Yokota Naho Ruiz , Yamada Yuki , Arakawa Noriaki , Sakamaki Kentaro , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Kubota Kazumi , Kimura Fuminori , Mizushima Taichi , Yamazaki Etsuko , Miyagi Etsuko 
Published: February 2025

AbstractAimTissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 (TFPI2) is a preoperative biomarker that was developed to discriminate ovarian benign tumors from cancer and is covered by health insurance in Japan. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how the TFPI2 changes after treatment.MethodsSerum levels of TFPI2 (cut off 191 pg/mL) and CA125 (cut off 35 U/mL) before and after primary debulking surgery in patients with ovarian malignant tumors were evaluated among recurrent and nonrecurrent cases, respectively.ResultsA total of 46 cases were analyzed, including 11 borderline tumors, 13 clear cell carcinomas, 15 serous carcinomas, 4 endometrioid carcinomas, and 3 mucinous carcinomas. Among 37 patients without recurrence, the preoperative mean levels of TFPI2 (235.3 pg/mL, range: 78.3–607.7) and CA125 (1125.5 U/mL, range: 6.2–6272.0) were higher than the cutoff values. The mean minimum level of TFPI2 decreased to below the cutoff (150.2 pg/mL, range 56.4–471.1) at 3 months or more after primary debulking surgeries. The postoperative TFPI2 level exceeded the cutoff in 11 out of 37 patients without recurrence (29.7%); however, the postoperative TFPI2 level decreased in 8 patients. The mean maximum levels of TFPI2 and CA125 in 9 patients after recurrence were 492.6 pg/mL and 727.4 U/mL, respectively. Moreover, the mean TFPI2 level was higher than the preoperative one (421.5 pg/mL), different from CA125 (2903.8 U/mL).ConclusionsOur results suggest the clinical validity of TFPI2 as a serum tumor marker for postoperative recurrence screening among malignant ovarian tumors.
Comparison of clomiphene citrate + letrozole add‐on versus classical ovarian stimulation protocols in diminished ovarian reserve patients
Authors: Tunç Mehmet , Önalan Göğşen 
Published: February 2025

AbstractAimTo investigate if there is any benefit of adding clomiphene citrate (CC) + letrozole to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) cycles on the total gonadotropin dose in POSEIDON group 4 diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) patients.MethodsA total of 61 DOR patients who underwent 150 COS cycles between 2020 and 2023 in our center were investigated retrospectively. The patients were divided into three main subgroups: group A, group B, and group C. In group A, gonadotropin stimulation started after the completion of 5 days of co‐treatment with CC (50 mg twice daily) and letrozole (2.5 mg twice daily). In group B, patients received gonadotropins after completing 5 days of letrozole (2.5 mg twice, daily), and in group C, patients started gonadotropins only.ResultsMean age was higher in groups A and B. Body mass index, previous parity, and mean AMH levels were similar between the groups. Day 2 antral follicle count was significantly lower in group A (0.90, 1.45 and 1.53; p = 0.017). The need for gonadotropins was lower in group A compared to groups B and C (p = 0.131, and p = 0.029; respectively). Cycle cancellation rates, follicle count on trigger day, number of mature oocytes, number of cleavage stage embryos, and number of blastocyst stage embryos were similar between the groups.ConclusionCC + letrozole co‐treatment before starting gonadotropin stimulation in POSEIDON group 4 DOR patients might reduce the need for gonadotropins, with similar live birth rates in COS cycles.
Toceranib phosphate for the treatment of dogs with high‐risk adrenal gland tumours: 16 cases (2019‐2023)
Authors: Chalfon C. , Marconato L. , Galac S. , Tardo A. M. , Zandvliet M. , Fracassi F. , Del Baldo F. , Ghisoni G. , Pisoni L. , Finotello R. 
Published: February 2025

ObjectivesThe aims of this study were to evaluate the response rate, time to progression (TTP) and survival times of dogs with high‐risk adrenal gland tumours (ATs) treated with toceranib phosphate, in both macroscopic and microscopic setting, and to report the adverse event (AE) profiles.Materials and MethodsMedical records of dogs diagnosed with a high‐risk adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) or phaeochromocytoma (PCC), treated with toceranib, were retrospectively reviewed. High‐risk ATs were defined as inoperable and/or metastatic ATs or cortical tumours with high Utrecht score. Endpoints were response rate, TTP and overall progression‐free survival time (PFST). Adverse events were reported according to VCOG‐CTCAE.ResultsSixteen dogs were included: 10 diagnosed with PCC and six with ACC. All dogs with ACC received adjuvant toceranib due to a high Utrecht score or metastatic disease, while all dogs with PCC were treated with toceranib in the macroscopic setting. A clinical benefit was detected in 80% of dogs with PCC: four achieved stable disease for a median TTP of 176.5 days, and two achieved partial response for 182 and >100 days, respectively. Median PFST for dogs with PCC was 112 days. Among dogs with ACC, 3 (50%) progressed and were euthanized after 237, 364 and 273 days; the remaining 3 (50%) dogs were alive and disease free 382, 508 and 583 days after starting toceranib. Overall, toceranib was well‐tolerated.Clinical SignificanceToceranib may offer clinical benefit and improve outcome in dogs with high‐risk ATs in both the macroscopic and microscopic disease setting.
Kidney Function and Size in Children With Down Syndrome: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Padoan Flavia , Stifano Rossella , Brugnara Milena , Guarnaroli Matteo , Piazza Michele , Lauriola Silvana , Piacentini Giorgio , Pietrobelli Angelo , Pecoraro Luca 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTDown syndrome (DS) is associated with a high prevalence of congenital heart, gastrointestinal, and endocrine anomalies, as well as a heightened risk for kidney and urinary tract abnormalities. The renal anomalies occur in up to 3.2% of DS cases at birth—four to five times higher than in the general population. Despite this, current DS management guidelines lack routine kidney evaluations, even though risk factors like neonatal acute kidney injury, renal hypoplasia and obesity may predispose DS children to chronic kidney disease (CKD). In a cross‐sectional study, we analysed kidney size and function in 54 DS children. Results revealed that 25% of patients exhibited renal hypoplasia, 26% had an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 90 mL/min/1.73 m2 Among adolescents, 55.5% showed eGFR values below 90 mL/min/1.73 m2 Additionally, 29.6% of the cohorts were overweight and 7.4% obese. There is a need for early kidney assessments in DS patients to detect initial renal decline and underscore the importance of close monitoring, particularly in adolescents. Further studies are needed to identify specific prognostic factors to better assess CKD risk in DS children, and limited research exists on renal replacement therapies for this population.