bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cannabidiol inhibits RAD51 and sensitizes glioblastoma to temozolomide in multiple orthotopic tumor models
Authors: Soroceanu Liliana , Singer Eric , Dighe Pratiksha , Sidorov Max , Limbad Chandani , Rodriquez-Brotons Aida , Rix Peter , Woo Rinette W L , Dickinson Lawrence , Desprez Pierre-Yves , McAllister Sean D 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Background
Cannabidiol (CBD), a nonpsychoactive cannabinoid with a low toxicity profile, has been shown to produce antitumor activity across cancers in part through selective production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in tumor cells. The alkylating agent, temozolomide (TMZ), is standard of care for treatment of glioblastoma (GBM). It can trigger increased ROS to induce DNA damage. It has also been reported that downregulating the expression of RAD51, an important DNA damage repair protein, leads to sensitization of GBM to TMZ.

Methods
We determined the extent to which CBD enhanced the antitumor activity of TMZ in multiple orthotopic models of GBM. In addition, we investigated the potential for CBD to enhance the antitumor activity of TMZ through production of ROS and modulation of DNA repair pathways.

Results
CBD enhanced the activity of TMZ in U87 MG and U251 GBM cell lines and in patient-derived primary GBM163 cells leading to stimulation of ROS, activation of the ROS sensor AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and upregulation of the autophagy marker LC3A. CBD produced a sensitization of U87 and GBM163-derived intracranial (i.c.) tumors to TMZ and significantly increased survival of tumor-bearing mice. However, these effects were not observed in orthotopic models derived from GBM with intact methylguanine methyltransferase (MGMT) expression. We further demonstrate that CBD inhibited RAD51 expression in MGMT-methylated models of GBM, providing a potential mechanism for tumor sensitization to TMZ by CBD.

Conclusion
These data support the potential therapeutic benefits of using CBD to enhance the antitumor activity of TMZ in GBM patients.
Assessing mobility in primary brain tumor patients: A descriptive feasibility study using two established mobility tests
Authors: Rogers James L , De La Cruz Minyety Julianie , Vera Elizabeth , Acquaye Alvina A , Payén Samuel S , Weinberg Jeffrey S , Armstrong Terri S , Weathers Shiao-Pei S 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Background
Patients with primary brain tumors (PBT) face significant mobility issues related to their disease and/or treatment. Here, the authors describe the preliminary utility and feasibility of two established mobility measures, the Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG) and Five-Times Sit-to-Stand (TSS) tests, in quickly and objectively assessing the mobility status of PBT patients at a single institution’s neuro-oncology clinic.

Methods
Adult patients undergoing routine PBT care completed the TUG/TSS tests and MD Anderson Symptom Inventory-Brain Tumor module (MDASI-BT), which assessed symptom burden and interference with daily life, during clinic visits over a 6-month period. Research staff assessed feasibility metrics, including test completion times/rates, and collected demographic, clinical, and treatment data. Mann–Whitney tests, Kruskal–Wallis tests, and Spearman’s rho correlations were used to interrogate relationships between TUG/TSS test completion times and patient characteristics.

Results
The study cohort included 66 PBT patients, 59% male, with a median age of 47 years (range: 20–77). TUG/TSS tests were completed by 62 (94%) patients. Older patients (P &lt; .001) and those who were newly diagnosed (P = .024), on corticosteroids (P = .025), or had poor (≤80) KPS (P &lt; .01) took longer to complete the TUG/TSS tests. Worse activity-related (work, activity, and walking) interference was associated with longer TUG/TSS test completion times (P &lt; .001).

Conclusions
The TUG/TSS tests are feasible for use among PBT patients and may aid in clinical care. Older age, being newly diagnosed, using corticosteroids, poor (≤80) KPS, and high activity-related interference were associated with significant mobility impairment, highlighting the tests’ potential clinical utility. Future investigations are warranted to longitudinally explore feasibility and utility in other practice and disease settings.
Impact of neurofibromatosis type 1 in an adult community population
Authors: Gregory Timothy A , Molina Peter Simon B , Phillips Gregory D , Henson John W 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Background
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common tumor predisposition syndrome with varying manifestations and severity. Adult NF1 patients often experience fragmented care, so we sought to characterize the health and demographic features of a community-based population of adults with NF1 and hypothesized that lack of a specialty clinic for adult NF1 patients correlates with unmet needs.

Methods
Retrospective case-control study of all adult cases of NF1 among 4.06 million medical records in a Pacific Northwest population. 122 case charts were reviewed to ascertain NF1 disease features, comorbidities, and severity of disease. A 1:1 control cohort was selected by matching case/control by age, sex, and ZIP code to compare demographic features and health status.

Results
Adult NF1 patients were less likely to have private insurance, be employed, and have children, but were equally likely to be married. One half of cases had disease features compromising health and well-being, and care involved 26 different specialties. Excluding neurofibromas, 43% of cases had cancer compared to 10% of controls [P &lt; .0001, OR 5.38 (2.53–11.4)]. Only 27% of women ages 30–50 had undergone age-appropriate enhanced breast cancer surveillance. Behavioral health problems were found in 60% of NF1 patients compared to 37% of controls [P &lt; .001, OR 2.61 (1.52–4.50)]. 93% of cases referred to a NF1 specialty center underwent a change in management upon establishing care.

Conclusions
NF1 patients may benefit from coordinated management of care in a specialty center.
Splenic Abscess in the New Millennium: A Descriptive, Retrospective Case Series
Authors: Radcliffe Christopher , Tang Zeyu , Gisriel Savanah D , Grant Matthew 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Background
Splenic abscess is a rare infection often resulting from hematogenous spread. Immunocompromised states are commonly comorbid, and the microbiology is heterogeneous.

Methods
We conducted a retrospective review of 33 cases identified by convenience sampling. Cases were treated in our institution’s hospital system between May 2012 and February 2021 and classified as proven or probable based on predetermined criteria.

Results
The median age was 57 years, and 58% were men. Common underlying diseases included diabetes mellitus (30%), pancreatic disease (30%), and hematological malignancy (15%). The most common mechanism of pathogenesis was hematogenous spread (n = 13). Escherichia coli, enterococcal spp., and anaerobes were frequently implicated. One case was discovered at autopsy and excluded from subsequent analyses. The median duration of antimicrobial therapy (range) was 45 (5–525) days, and the median length of index hospitalization was 20 days. Percutaneous drainage by interventional radiology was common (17 of 32; 53%), and 6 patients underwent splenectomy. Treatment success was achieved in 14 of 32 cases (44%), with clinical stability in 3 of 32 cases (9%). Failures occurred in 13 of 32 (41%) cases, 2 of whom died from splenic abscesses. Two patients (2 of 32) were lost to follow-up.

Conclusions
To our knowledge, this is the largest North American series since the turn of the century and the first to distinguish between proven and probable cases. As reflected in our series, patients with splenic abscess may require prolonged hospitalizations and courses of antimicrobial therapy. Improvements in management are needed.
Economic Significance in Corporate Finance
Authors: Mitton Todd 
Published: February 2022

AbstractReporting the economic significance of findings in corporate finance has become increasingly common, but a review of the literature reveals shortcomings in typical reporting practices. Researchers can more effectively communicate the practical importance of findings by using standard measures of economic significance scaled by the standard deviation of the dependent variable, by providing all statistics necessary to calculate economic significance, and by providing benchmarks by which to evaluate the magnitude of economic significance. To support these objectives, I show why measures scaled by the standard deviation are preferable, and I provide benchmarks based on hundreds of established findings from the literature. (JEL C18, C52, G30).
The emergence and transmission dynamics of HIV-1 CRF07_BC in Mainland China
Authors: Li Xingguang , Li Yanping , Liu Haizhou , Trovão Nídia S , Foley Brian T 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
A total of 1155 partial pol gene sequences of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 CRF07_BC were sampled between 1997 and 2015, spanning 13 provinces in Mainland China and risk groups [heterosexual, injecting drug users (IDU), and men who have sex with men (MSM)] to investigate the evolution, adaptation, spatiotemporal and risk group dynamics, migration patterns, and protein structure of HIV-1 CRF07_BC. Due to the unequal distribution of sequences across time, location, and risk group in the complete dataset (‘full1155’), subsampling methods were used. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic analysis as well as discrete trait analysis of geographical location and risk group were carried out. To study mutations of a cluster of HIV-1 CRF07_BC (CRF07-1), we performed a comparative analysis of this cluster to the other CRF07_BC sequences (‘backbone_295’) and mapped the mutations observed in the respective protein structure. Our findings showed that HIV-1 CRF07_BC most likely originated among IDU in Yunnan Province between October 1992 to July 1993 [95 per cent hightest posterior density (HPD): May 1989–August 1995] and that IDU in Yunnan Province and MSM in Guangdong Province likely served as the viral sources during the early and more recent spread in Mainland China. We also revealed that HIV-1 CRF07-1 has been spreading for roughly 20 years and continues to cause local transmission in Mainland China and worldwide. Overall, our study sheds light on the dynamics of HIV-1 CRF07_BC distribution patterns in Mainland China. Our research may also be useful in formulating public health policies aimed at controlling acquired immune deficiency syndrome in Mainland China and globally.
Phycova — a tool for exploring covariates of pathogen spread
Authors: Blokker Tim , Baele Guy , Lemey Philippe , Dellicour Simon 
Published: February 2022

AbstractGenetic analyses of fast-evolving pathogens are frequently undertaken to test the impact of covariates on their dispersal. In particular, a popular approach consists of parameterizing a discrete phylogeographic model as a generalized linear model to identify and analyse the predictors of the dispersal rates of viral lineages among discrete locations. However, such a full probabilistic inference is often computationally demanding and time-consuming. In the face of the increasing amount of viral genomes sequenced in epidemic outbreaks, there is a need for a fast exploration of covariates that might be relevant to consider in formal analyses. We here present PhyCovA (short for ‘Phylogeographic Covariate Analysis’), a web-based application allowing users to rapidly explore the association between candidate covariates and the number of phylogenetically informed transition events among locations. Specifically, PhyCovA takes as input a phylogenetic tree with discrete state annotations at the internal nodes, or reconstructs those states if not available, to subsequently conduct univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses, as well as an exploratory variable selection analysis. In addition, the application can also be used to generate and explore various visualizations related to the regression analyses or to the phylogenetic tree annotated by the ancestral state reconstruction. PhyCovA is freely accessible at https://evolcompvir-kuleuven.shinyapps.io/PhyCovA/ and also distributed in a dockerized form obtainable from https://hub.docker.com/repository/docker/timblokker/phycova. The source code and tutorial are available from the GitHub repository https://github.com/TimBlokker/PhyCovA.
Robotic Assisted Versus Manual Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gupta Rahul , Malik Aaqib H. , Chan Jeffrey Shi Kai , Lawrence Huang , Mehta Anila , Venkata Vikramaditya Samala , Aedma Surya K. , Ranchal Purva , Dhaduk Kartik , Aronow Wilbert S. , Vyas Apurva V. , Mehta Sanjay S. , Combs William G. , Frishman William H. , Patel Nainesh C. 
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
Robotics in percutaneous coronary intervention (R-PCI) has been one such area of advancement where potential benefits may include reduced operator radiation exposure, improved outcomes, and reduced rate of adverse events. Limited data exist about the benefits of R-PCI versus conventional manual PCI (M-PCI). We appraised the latest evidence in the form of a meta-analysis of observational and retrospective studies.

Methods:
A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane to identify relevant clinical studies. Summary effects were calculated using a DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model as the pooled odds ratio or mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). All studies adhering to the inclusion criteria of direct comparisons between R-PCI and M-PCI were evaluated.

Results:
Seven studies with a total of 2230 patients were identified. There was significant decrease in the chest-level operator radiation exposure (MD = –442.32; 95% CI = –675.88 to –208.76), fluoroscopy time (MD = –1.46; 95% CI = –2.92 to 0.00), and amount of contrast used (MD = –18.28; 95% CI = –24.16 to –12.41) in the robotic group compared to the manual group. PCI time and the procedural success rate was not statistically different between the 2 groups. Clinical outcomes of major adverse cardiac events, all-cause mortality, and myocardial infarction were not different between the 2 groups.

Conclusions:
Robotic PCI is associated with reduced operator radiation exposure, fluoroscopy time, and amount of contrast used. While there is a significant reduction in the procedural characteristics with robotic PCI, the clinical outcomes are not different compared to M-PCI. R-PCI is safe and effective with potential benefits to both the operator and the patient simultaneously.
Costal Cartilage Graft to Prevent Drooping after Free Flap Reconstruction of the Lower Lip
Authors: Kuwahara Masamitsu , Yurugi Satoshi , Mashiba Kumi , Ando Junji , Takeuchi Mika , Miyata Riyo , Harada Masayuki , Masuda Yasumitsu , Kanagawa Saori 
Published: February 2022

Summary:
For large lower lip defects, a thin flap combined with a tendon is the standard reconstructive option. However, this method can result in flap ptosis, which occurred in two of our patients. To correct the ptosis, we transplanted costal cartilage into the reconstructed lower lips, which produced good or moderate results. We report our experience based on long-term follow-up. In case 1, reconstruction was performed with a latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap. Within 10 years of the first cartilage transplant, two additional surgeries were required due to cartilage/screw breakage. These problems may have been triggered by the bulkiness of the flap and/or the angle at which the cartilage was anchored in place. There have not been any further problems for 3 years. In case 2, reconstruction was performed with a free anterolateral thigh flap. The skin around the flap had poor extensibility, and the patient had marked Class II occlusion. We grafted cartilage without fixing it to the mandible. However, temporary interference with the maxillary dentition was observed. In conclusion, costal cartilage grafts are effective against flap ptosis after free flap reconstruction of the lower lip in patients without Class II occlusion. To achieve long-term stability, the optimal angle and positioning of the cartilage and the extensibility of the skin must be thoroughly investigated before surgery, and a thick piece of cartilage must be firmly fixed in place.
“Idiopathic” Shoulder Pain and Dysfunction from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Hagiwara Yusuke , Nakamura Tatsuo , Sonoki Kentaro , Moroi Keishichiro , Morimoto Shigeru , Natsume Yumiko , Yoshida Ryu 
Published: February 2022

Background:
As a referral center for chronic pain, we see many patients with “idiopathic” shoulder pain and limited range of motion. The combination of mild or subclinical carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome may be an underrecognized etiology of symptoms in such patients. Here, we report our treatment algorithm and results for such patients.

Methods:
Of patients with a chief complaint of shoulder pain, we identified 56 consecutive patients who had pain or tingling with median nerve compression at the proximal wrist crease and positive Tinel’s around the cubital tunnel. They were first provided a night-time wrist orthosis. If still symptomatic, nerve blocks were given to median and ulnar nerves under ultrasound guidance. If symptoms recurred after nerve blocks, nerve conduction studies and surgical release of affected nerves were performed.

Results:
Six patients had 60% or more pain relief with orthosis (mean 4.7 ± 0.8 (SD) to 2.2 ± 0.8). Twenty-three patients had nerve blocks and had persistent pain relief (6.0 ± 1.7 to 2.1 ± 1.9) and significant shoulder motion improvement. Twenty-seven patients only had temporal relief and required surgery but postoperatively had persistent pain relief (6.2 ± 2.0 to 1.2 ± 1.0) and improved shoulder motion. qDASH improved from 33.4 ± 20.1 preoperatively to 12.2 ± 7.4 postoperatively.

Conclusions:
All patients had substantial improvement in shoulder pain and motion with compressive neuropathy treatments. Targeted physical examination can identify these patients, who can have significant improvement with appropriate diagnosis and treatment. The study sheds light on an underrecognized cause of shoulder dysfunction.
Hand and Upper Extremity Trauma in the Undocumented Immigrant Population in the United States
Authors: Inglesby Dani C. , Okewunmi Jeffrey , Williams Christine S. , Gopman Jared M. , Melamed Eitan 
Published: February 2022

Background:
Undocumented immigrants in the United States are at risk for upper extremity trauma due to occupational exposure, and decreased access to healthcare can worsen outcomes. The purpose of this study was to compare documented versus undocumented patients in a large cohort of patients in New York City's most diverse neighborhood in order to characterize upper extremity trauma in this population.

Methods:
The Elmhurst Hospital trauma database was examined for patients admitted with upper extremity trauma from April 2016 to December 2019. Charts were examined for demographic information, documentation status, injury mechanism, and outcomes.

Results:
Of the 1041 patients included, 865 (83.1%) were documented and 176 (16.9%) were undocumented. Undocumented immigrants were younger (40.5 versus 62.4 years, P < 0.0001) and predominantly men (83.5% versus 57.1%, P < 0.0001) with fewer comorbidities (42.6% versus 64.6%, P < 0.0001). Occupational injury was three times as likely in undocumented immigrants (13.6% versus 4.6%, P < 0.0001) and these patients were nearly twice as likely to be harmed from violence (19.9% versus 10.2%, P = 0.0003). Increased rates of injury during bicycle/motorcycle accidents (8.0% versus 3.0%, P = 0.0017) or being struck as a pedestrian (21.6% versus 14.3%, P = 0.0149) were found in the undocumented cohort, with falls (39.8% versus 59.3%, P < 0.0001) or vehicle collisions (0.6% versus 3.5%, P = 0.0402).

Conclusions:
Undocumented patients with upper extremity trauma represent a younger/healthier cohort, but are more likely to be injured at work or by violence. Documentation status plays a role in injury characteristics.
Calcinosis Cutis of the Nasal Dorsum
Authors: Marsh Henry R. , Miyake Bradley A. , Alamiri Nasser N. , Mims Mark M. 
Published: February 2022

Summary:
Calcinosis cutis is a common dermatological problem in patients with systemic sclerosis, dermatomyositis, and systemic lupus erythematous; however, it is rare to occur outside of these diseases. It represents a multidisciplinary problem that involves primary care physicians, dermatologists, and surgeons. The pathophysiology is defined by deposition of calcium salts in the subcutaneous tissue as hydroxyapatite, but the underlying mechanism has yet to be determined. The most common locations of lesions are the scalp, scrotum, extremities, and joints. Rarely does calcinosis cutis occur on the face. We present a unique case of idiopathic calcinosis cutis that occurred in a healthy patient with normal serum calcium and phosphate levels on the nasal dorsum, which was managed surgically. The histology of the calcinosis showed normal morphology, dominated by large deposits of calcium and normal surrounding tissues. This case represents a rare but clinically relevant presentation of idiopathic calcinosis cutis in an otherwise healthy individual.
The Effect of Hypothyroidism on Surgical Outcomes Postabdominoplasty: A Case-control Study
Authors: ElAbd Rawan , Alhallabi Becher , AlSabah Salman , Burezq Hisham 
Published: February 2022

Background:
Hypothyroidism is common in surgical patients. The objective of this study is to determine the rate of short- and long-term complications after abdominoplasty for patients treated for hypothyroidism.

Methods:
This is a retrospective chart review that enrolled consecutive patients undergoing abdominoplasty across a 5-year period. Cases had a preoperative diagnosis of overt hypothyroidism requiring thyroid replacement therapy, whereas controls are without thyroid disease. Groups were matched by age, gender, comorbidity status (hypertension and diabetes), smoking, and center of surgery in a 3:1 ratio.

Results:
There was a total of 61 cases and 183 matched controls followed up for 18 months; most were women (n = 240, 98%) and between the ages of 31 and 45 years (n = 142, 58%). There were no significant differences between cases and controls in any of the sociodemographic and comorbidity status except for current BMI, which was higher for cases than the control (P < 0.05). The proportions of all other infections (4.5% versus 1.6%), wound dehiscence (4.7% versus 0.8%), dermatitis (4.7% versus 1.6%), and necrosis (2.3% versus 0%), hematoma (4.7% versus 2.5%) and seroma (2.3% versus 1.6%) formation were higher in cases but not significant (P > 0.05). LTCs were not statistically different across groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:
This study did not find a significantly different higher risk of complications after abdominoplasty for patients treated for hypothyroidism.