bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parietex™ Mini Male Sling for Stress Urinary Incontinence at the Time of Three Piece Penile Prosthesis: Technique and Outcomes
Authors: Razdan Shirin , Siegal Alexandra , Valenzuela Robert
Published: December 2023

Male stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is often comorbid with erectile dysfunction (ED) post prostatectomy. While the three piece inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) is the gold standard surgical option for ED, there are many surgical options for male SUI as well as climacturia. We present our technique and outcomes for mini male sling (MMS) with IPP insertion for mild SUI and climacturia using a monofilament polyester mesh. A retrospective review of all IPPs performed by a single high-volume prosthetic urologist was conducted. A subset of men who underwent IPP insertion with concomitant MMS were identified and analyzed. The technique of MMS placement involves measurement of an approximately 5x3 cm two layered Parietex™ mesh (Covidien, MN); the mesh is overlayed ventrally on the bulbar urethra at the penoscrotal junction, just proximal to the corporotomy sites. The Parietex™ mesh includes a hydrophilic absorbable collagen film to minimize tissue reaction and risk of erosion. The lateral edges of the mesh are sutured to the 3 and 9 o’clock positions on the left and right corporal bodies, respectively, using a nonabsorbable, braided suture. Tightness of mesh is measured using the proximal end of a Debakey forceps, with ease of passage when the IPP is deflated, and inability to pass forceps when the IPP is inflated. A total of 63 men underwent IPP with MMS between January 2018 and October 2022. All patients had a diagnosis of concomitant ED and SUI after radical prostatectomy. Average IPP size was 21 cm with a 1 cm rear tip extender. A total of 59 men had SUI, with an average pad per day (PPD) of 1.5. Twenty-five men with SUI had comorbid climacturia, and 4 men had preoperative climacturia without SUI. Average PPD post IPP with MMS was 0.1. Of the 29 men with preoperative climacturia, only one did not have resolution of his symptoms post MMS. There was only one reported complication of acute urinary retention requiring sling removal. Two patients required subsequent AUS insertion, and two required IPP revision for malpositioned cylinders. There were no reported cases of infection or mesh erosion. The Parietex™ mesh is a safe, cost-effective, easy to use, and an effective material for mini male sling insertion at the time of IPP placement for men with ED and mild SUI or climacturia.
Thermodynamic geometric analysis of 3D charged black holes under f(R) gravity
Authors: Chen Wen-Xiang , Zheng Yao-Guang
Published: December 2023

This article investigates 3D charged black holes within the scope of f(R) gravity, focusing on their thermodynamic attributes. The research primarily examines minor fluctuations around these black holes' equilibrium states and delves into their modified thermodynamic entropy. Utilizing geometric thermodynamics (GTD), the study evaluates the curvature scalar's role in pinpointing phase transition points in these black holes. A key finding is that several 3D charged black holes under f(R) gravity display thermodynamic properties akin to an ideal gas when their initial curvature scalar remains constant. Conversely, with a non-constant curvature scalar and a cosmological constant term that includes a negative exponent, these black holes exhibit characteristics similar to a van der Waals gas. The article outlines general solutions for scenarios involving non-negative powers and specific solutions for cases with negative powers. Notably, under certain conditions, a phase transition resembling that of a van der Waals gas is observed, suggesting a strong correlation between the black hole's fate and the cosmological constant, extending beyond the parameters proposed by the no-hair theorem.
Integration of Field-oriented and steady-state linear Kalman filter control in PMSG-based grid-connected system for improving Voltage Control and Power Balance Operation
Authors: Parmar Devang B , Giri Ashutosh K
Published: December 2023

The aim of this research study is to improve the dependability and effectiveness of the wind energy supply system by specifically examining the grid-connected permanent magnet synchronous generator system (PMSG). The proposed system requires the connection of a common DC-link with two converters arranged in a back-to-back arrangement. The machine-side Field Oriented Control (FOC) utilizes the rotor position and generator speed. In this closed-loop control system, the regulation of torque is achieved indirectly by adjusting the stator current. The control scheme is formulated within the synchronous DQ frame. On the grid side control, modifications are involved for regulating the reference current generation exhausting the Steady State Linear Kalman Filter (SSLKF) control algorithm, improving power quality issues in the inverter, and regulating DC-link voltage to accomplish smooth power transfer under steady-state and dynamic conditions. The framework with closed loops equalizes power between the inverter, grid, and load. In a grid-connected system, power equilibrium is established at the point that the wind speed drops below the cut-in threshold. This system has been constructed with PMSG, a grid-connected bidirectional converter, and a nonlinear load designed in MATLAB Simulink.
Advancing Diabetes Management: A Study of BIOS Health and Continuous Glucose Monitoring for Diabetes Remission
Authors: Shaikh Ateeb , Yezdani Haleema , Saraogi Pratik , Baluni Sameer
Published: December 2023

This study examines the comparative effectiveness of semaglutide intervention and metformin monotherapy in the management of type 2 diabetes. A total of 238 participants were enrolled in this randomized controlled trial, with one group receiving semaglutide in addition to standard diabetes care and the other receiving metformin alone. Various metabolic and health-related scores, including metabolic score, food score, stability score, glucose score, combined score, metabolic health score, sleep score, recovery score, heart rate variability (HRV), skin temperature, and Glucose Management Indicator (GMI), were assessed.
The results revealed that the intervention group receiving semaglutide exhibited improved metabolic health, healthier dietary habits, greater glucose stability, better glucose control, and enhanced overall health outcomes compared to the metformin monotherapy group. These findings highlight the potential benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide in optimizing diabetes management. However, limitations such as study duration and sample size should be considered. Further research is warranted to validate and expand upon these results.
Improve Time and Energy Efficiency in Multi-UAV Coverage Swarms by Optimizing theTake-off/Landing positions
Authors: Stefanopoulou Aliki , Raptis Emmanuel K. , Apostolidis Savvas , Gkelios Socratis , Kapoutsis Athanasios Ch. , Chatzichristofis Savvas A. , Vrochidis Stefanos , Kosmatopoulos Elias B.
Published: December 2023

This paper focuses on Coverage Path Planning (CPP) methodologies, particularlyin the context of multi-robot missions, to efficiently cover user-defined Regions ofInterest (ROIs) using UAV swarms, while emphasizing on the reduction of energyconsumption and mission duration. Optimizing the efficiency of multi-robot CPPmissions involves addressing critical factors such as path length, the number ofturns, re-visitations, and launch positions. Achieving these goals, particularly incomplex and concave ROIs with No-Go Zones, is a challenging task. This workintroduces a novel approach to address these challenges, emphasizing the selectionof launch points for UAVs. By optimizing launch points, the mission’s energy andtime efficiency are significantly enhanced, leading to more efficient coverage ofthe selected ROIs. To further support our research and foster further exploration on this topic, we provide the open-source implementation of our algorithm andour evaluation mechanisms.
The Impact of Dementia on Patients Admitted with Acute Respiratory Failure: An Insight from the National Inpatient Sample
Authors: Labban Mohamad El , Rauf Ibtisam , Shaikh Asim , Olorode Gbemisola , Khedr Anwar , Khan Muhammad Khuzzaim , Asim Rida , Khan Syed
Published: December 2023

Background
Acute respiratory failure is one of the most common causes of hospitalizations in the US. By 2030, the number of Americans with dementia is expected to reach nearly 9 million and 12 million in 2040. Dementia increases the risk of respiratory illnesses, including pneumonia. This study delves into the intricate interplay between dementia and acute respiratory failure.
Methods
Our retrospective study analyzed adult patients with acute respiratory failure and secondary diagnosis of dementia using ICD-10 codes in the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) Database from 2017 to 2020. An analysis was conducted on various demographic factors such as age, race, and gender. The study's primary endpoint was mortality, with mechanical ventilation, tracheostomy, and length of stay as secondary endpoints. To account for other variables that could have affected the results, we utilized a multivariate logistic regression with p < 0.05 considered significant.
Results
The study included 1,795,630 patients admitted with ARF, 112,175 of whom had dementia. The mean age in the dementia group was 80 years, compared to 65 years in the control group. Additionally, 62% of the dementia group were females, while the control group had 55% females. 73% of both groups were Caucasian white. Comorbidities observed in the dementia group include hypertension (81% vs. 72%), diabetes mellitus (36% vs. 35%), supraventricular tachycardia (29% vs. 20%), and sepsis (6% vs. 5%) with p-value less than 0.01. Rates and odds of mortality were higher in the dementia group (15,704 (14%) vs. 151,511 (9%), p-value < 0.01, aOR 1.08, p-value < 0.01). Patients with dementia had lower rates of in-hospital mechanical ventilation, but higher adjusted odds (27% vs. 28%; p < 0.01; aOR + 1.2, p < 0.01). Patients with dementia had lower rates and adjusted odds of undergoing a tracheostomy during their stay (762 (0.7) vs. 16,834 (1), p-value < 0.01, aOR 0.91 p-value 0.33).. Patients with dementia had a longer length of stay (LOS) than those without, with a mean difference of + 0.3 days and p-value < 0.01.
Conclusions
Clinicians should be aware that dementia was found to be an independent risk factor for mortality in patients admitted with acute respiratory failure.
Simulating the effects of H2O2 and melatonin treatments on the oxidation and reduction state of sperm on two outcomes: DNA uptake in sperm and apoptosis of embryonic cells
Authors: Saberi Fatemeh , Jajarmi Vahid , Hosseini Sara , Nasr-Esfahani Mohammad Hossein , Salehi Mohammad
Published: December 2023

Improving the transfer of foreign genes into recalcitrant cells, as in the production of transgenic animal models, is a challenge. Sperm-mediated gene transfer (SMGT) is a cost-effective and rapid method for exogenous DNA transferring into egg by sperm during fertilization. This method can be improved using chemical and natural additives. The objective of this study was to examine how sperm function, DNA uptake, embryonic development, and apoptosis rates are affected by different levels of ROS under varying oxidant and antioxidant conditions in SMGT method. Sperm isolated from mice with and without plasmid were treated with varying concentrations of H2O2 and melatonin. Under oxidation conditions, sperm performance was significantly reduced compared to the melatonin treatment. Embryos from the oxidation group with 100 µM H2O2 treatment showed higher uptake of exogenous DNA, and the proportion of GFP-positive blastocysts was significantly higher than those from higher concentrations. The data demonstrate that oxidative conditions in sperm are associated with increased absorption of exogenous DNA, potentially due to an increase in the mitochondria ability resulting from reactive oxygen species increase and sperm membrane instability. The importance of antioxidants lies in their ability to safeguard DNA against oxidative stress, enhance absorption efficacy, and bolster the stability of the sperm membrane. The study showed that antioxidants reduced the risk of negative effects on sperm quality and function.
Periarticular Blast Wounds Without Fracture: A Prospective Case Series
Authors: Covey Dana Curtis , Gentchos Christopher
Published: December 2023

Background
During the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq most injuries to service members involved the musculoskeletal system. These wounds often occurred around joints, and in some cases result in traumatic arthrotomy -- a diagnosis that is not always clear, especially when there is no concomitant articular fracture. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the diagnosis and treatment of peri-articular blast injuries without fracture.
Methods
The study cohort included 12 consecutive patients (12 involved extremities) who sustained extremity periarticular blast wounds without fractures. The diagnosis of penetrating articular injury was based on clinical examination, radiographic findings, or aspiration. A periarticular wound was defined as any wound, or radio-opaque blast fragment, within 5 cm of a joint. The New Injury Severity Score (NISS) was calculated for each patient. Four patients had upper, and 8 patients had lower extremity injuries. Nine of 12 patients had joint capsular penetration and underwent joint irrigation and debridement.
Results
Two patients had retained intra-articular metal fragments. One patient had soft tissue blast wounds within 5 cm of a joint but did not have joint capsule penetration. There were no significant differences (p = 0.23) between the distribution of wounds to upper versus lower extremities. However, there were a significantly greater number blast injuries attributed to Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) than from other blast mechanisms (p = 0.01).
Conclusion
Extremity blast injuries in the vicinity of joints involving only soft tissues present a unique challenge in surgical management. A high index of suspicion should be maintained for joint capsular penetration so that intra-articular injuries may be appropriately treated.
Resistant Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Increases the Incidence of HIV, Mpox, and Sexually Transmitted Infections: Analysis of Barriers and Challenges using Bibliometric Surveillance
Authors: Adnyana I Made Dwi Mertha , Darmawan Kadek
Published: December 2023

This study analyzed research trends related to Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) resistance in the increasing incidence of HIV, Mpox, and sexually transmitted infections. A total of 2,783 articles were collected from the Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases; however, only 925 original articles were included for further analysis. The term "exposure prophylaxis" and its related terms were found to be the dominating term cluster, indicating that this is a trending research hotspot. The emerging terms "resistance" and "drug resistance" are associated with research related to "arvs," "cabotegravir," "doxycycline pep," "doxycycline," "doxypep," "methamphetamine," "ritonavir," "tenofovir," "tenofovir disoproxil," and "truvada." The study also identified barriers and challenges related to PrEP resistance, including stigmatization associated with PrEP use, low affordability and insurance coverage, low knowledge of the importance of PrEP, and lack of access to health services and mental health support. This study recommends comprehensive sexual health education, routine testing for at-risk individuals, and open counseling utilizing social media to provide targeted and measurable assistance.
Users’ and therapists’ perspectives on the design of a virtual reality environment to train prosthesis control: a narrative review and focus group study
Authors: Rozevink Samantha G , Murgia Alessio , Bongers Raoul M , Sluis Corry K van der
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Virtual Reality (VR) is becoming increasingly popular to learn a complex skill, and hence has been used to train the control of upper limb prostheses. It is however unclear what characteristics a VR environment should have in order to become a usable and effective training environment. Our aim was to develop a framework containing the most important factors to be incorporated when designing a VR environment to train prosthesis control.
Methods: A mixed method approach was used. First, a narrative review was conducted to explore factors that should be considered when designing a VR environment for prosthesis control. Second, a preliminary framework, based on these factors, was presented to prosthesis users and therapists via a questionnaire. Participants chose the most important factors to be incorporated in a VR environment. Finally, the results were discussed in focus groups.
Results: Forty-nine out of 489 articles, were included. The preliminary framework comprised 62 factors in four domains: feedback, control, exercise and environment. Five prosthesis users and eight therapists participated in three focus groups. A final framework was developed which contained 46 factors in the four domains. End-users considered all domains to be equally important, since domains and factors influence each other.
Discussion: Future research should investigate aspects of VR enjoyment, implementation of bimanual training and the development of a testing environment with peer support.
Conclusion: The developed framework can be used to guide the design of a VR environment to train prosthesis control.
Trial registration: May 1st, 2023, https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/W6Z39
Social Media Addiction, Escapism and Coping Strategies are Associated with the Problematic Internet Use of Adolescents in Turkey: A Multi-center Study
Authors: Demirdöğen Esen Yıldırım , Akıncı Mehmet Akif , Bozkurt Abdullah , Vural Büşranur Bayraktutan , Turan Bahadır , Aydoğdu Sevil , Ucuz İlknur , Abanoz Elif , Tonkaz Gülsüm Yitik , Çakır Ali , Ferahkaya Hurşit
Published: December 2023

Background: The literature highlighted that problematic internet use (PIU) can have detrimental consequences on individuals' well-being. Social media addiction, escapism and coping skills are closely related to PIU. However, no study has currently examined the relationship between PIU and social media use, escapism and coping skills.
Method: This multicenter cross-sectional designed study evaluated the relationships between PIU and social media addiction, escapism, and coping skills in adolescents aged 14-18 years.
Results: The results showed that PIU was associated with duration of social media use, impairment in social media-related functionality, preferring virtual life, and virtual pleasure, escapism, avoidant and negative coping strategies.
Conclusion: These findings may provide an empirical basis for PIU prevention and intervention in adolescence.
Giant iridocycline melanoma found in a patient with aplastic anaemia
Authors: Yan Linwei , Cheng Jing , Fan Fang
Published: December 2023

Background
Uveal melanoma is a rare type of melanoma. Most of them occur in the choroid, and a few may be found in the iris and ciliary body. The management of localized melanoma can be divided into globe-preserving therapy or enucleation. We report a case of melanoma arising from the iris and ciliary body combined with aplastic anaemia, which was successfully treated by local resection of the tumor and achieved favorable visual outcome.
Case presentation
A 31-years-old man presented with repeated episodes of Painful visual loss in his right eye for 4 years. He was diagnosed with aplastic anaemia ten years ago. Slit lamp examination showed anterior synechia, keratoleukoma and a mass in both of the anterior and posterior chamber. The IOP of right eye was elevated. Based on clinical examination: Ultrasound Biomicroscopy B-scan ultrasonography, Computerized Tomography, a presumed diagnosis of iris and ciliary body tumor and secondary glaucoma was made. The patient underwent local excision of the mass. Histopathological examination of the resected material showed a melanoma. Postoperatively, the best corrected visual acuity was improved and there was no recurrence of the tumor at the end of 7 years’ follow-up.
Conclusions A Giant iris and ciliary tumor was successfully treated by local resection, with favorable visual outcome and no recurrence for 7 years follow up. Melanoma can be differentiated from other iris and ciliary body tumors by immunohistochemical examination.
Effects of low-level laser therapy and functional exercises in the treatment of chronic ankle sprain: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chen Yuan-zheng , Fan Yi-cai , Lin Tian-qiao , Zhou Quan
Published: December 2023

Objective:The purpose of this study is to investigate whether low-level laser therapy (LLLT) combined with functional exercise could be more effective than functional exercise alone in treating chronic ankle sprain. At the same time, to observe the dose-response relationship of LLLT in treating chronic ankle sprains.Methods:Thirty-three patients with chronic ankle sprains were randomly divided into three groups: exercise alone, low-dose laser plus exercise, and high-dose laser plus exercise, with eleven patients in each group. Two “laser groups” received laser irradiation at an intensity of 398 mW/cm2and 796 mW/cm2(doses of 119 J/cm2and 239 J/cm2), respectively, which were applied to two acupoints of Ki 3 (Taixi) and Bl 60 (Kunlun), and two pain points of the ankle. The functional exercise program consisted of ankle resistance exercises, resistance kinematic chain exercises, heel raise exercises, and BOSU ball exercises. All patients received five treatments per week for four weeks. At the end of this treatment and at baseline, observing the changes in ankle pain, range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, and balance postural control, and evaluating the curative effects.Results:After the 4-week intervention, all of the groups showed significant improvement in outcomes (P<0.05). High-dose laser irradiation combined with functional exercise resulted in more significant improvements in the primary outcomes than the other two regimens (P<0.05). However, there were no significant differences (P>0.05) between low-dose laser irradiation combined with functional exercise and functional exercise alone.Conclusion:1) Systematic functional exercise can significantly reduces the pain of patients with chronic ankle sprains, meanwhile improves the ROM, muscle strength, and balance control of the ankle joint. 2) LLLT increases the efficacy of functional exercise in the treatment of chronic ankle sprains. 3) The therapeutic effect of LLLT on chronic ankle sprains is related to the irradiation intensity, and the effects of 796mW/cm2irradiation is better than 398mW/cm2irradiation.
Characterization of type 2 diabetes-related immune response heterogeneity to COVID-19 vaccines via single-cell landscape analyses
Authors: Wang Weiqi , He Wenwen , Wang Shen , Liang Bo , Feng Na , Zhao Yongku , Wang Tiecheng , Zhang Xiaotuan , Yuan Shiqi , Wang Jian , Deng Shanshan , Guo Jingsong , Yang Songtao , Wong Gary , Liu Bin , Yan Feihu , Xia Xianzhu
Published: December 2023

Vaccines provide the most ideal protection against COVID-19, but variants of concern are highly transmissible and less sensitive to vaccine-elicited antibodies. It is unknown whether patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) can develop vaccine-elicited immune responses equal to those in healthy individuals. Impaired neutralizing antibodies and spike specific antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 have been identified in T2D patients vaccinated with inactivated vaccine. We therefore investigated changes in the peripheral immune systems of vaccinated T2D patients using single-cell RNA-sequencing. The immune cell phenotypes comprised antigen-presenting (APC), T, and plasma cell reconfigurations. Humoral immune damage to plasma cells exhibited impaired protein synthesis, processing, and transport. APCs were characterized by inflammation following human leukocyte antigen downregulation, neutrophil recruitment, and type I interferon pathway defects. Oxidative stress yielded abnormal hyper-inflammation comprising hyper-cytotoxic CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. There was also a decreased subset of SARS-CoV-2-specific B and T cell receptors. These results provide mechanistic insights into the COVID-19 vaccine-elicited immune responses of T2D patients.
Laser-assisted See-through Technology for Locating Sound Sources Inside a Structure
Authors: Wu Sean F. , Lu Yazhong , Ernest Cameron , Zhao Yang , Chen Lingguang
Published: December 2023

A laser-assisted see-through technology is developed to locate sound sources inside a structure and to analyze the interior sound field. Six lasers were utilized to measure the normal velocities on the exterior surface simultaneously, which were used to locate sound sources inside a structure through a passive sonic detection and ranging algorithm. Next, the Helmholtz equation least squares method was applied to reconstruct the interior sound field, and computer tomography utilized to scan space and time simultaneously to observe the changes of the interior sound field over time. If signals are time invariant, we can do all these with two lasers, one being fixed and another measuring the normal surface velocities and establish the transfer functions with respect to the stationary laser sequentially. This laser-assisted see-through technology was validated experimentally and employed to view the aerodynamically-induced sound field generated by a blower inside a projector. The reason that we can break the barrier in sound source localization is that measurements are taken on an impenetrable surface, whose normal velocity is continuous across the thickness of the surface. This discovery is groundbreaking. It embodies a significant advancement in sound source localization, and opens the door to a class of applications presently unattainable.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Pantoprazole in Patients on Dual Antiplatelet Therapy following Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Nikolic Valentina N. , Stokanovic Dragana , Jankovic Slobodan M. , Konstantinovic Sandra S. , Zvezdanovic Jelena B. , Lilic Jelena , Jevtovic-Stoimenov Tatjana , Stefanovic Nikola , Apostolovic Svetlana R. , Milovanovic Jasmina R.
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Pantoprazole, a widely prescribed proton pump inhibitor, is still not fully characterized in terms of its pharmacokinetic (PK) properties. In this study, we employed nonlinear mixed-effects modeling to investigate factors influencing the variability in pantoprazole PK in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing dual antiplatelet therapy.
Methods
Blood samples were collected from 93 adult males and females receiving oral pantoprazole. Through a stepwise regression procedure various demographic and clinical covariates were tested in relation to pantoprazole concentration and elimination. These results were further substantiated by the reduction of point dispersion in goodness-of-fit plots, depicting the individual predicted versus measured concentrations, and through bootstrapping analysis.
Results
Pantoprazole clearance is notably influenced by C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and concurrent use of statins.
Conclusion
This discovery holds significant implications for tailoring pantoprazole treatment on an individual basis, providing valuable insights for optimizing therapeutic strategies in the management of patients with acute coronary syndrome, thereby maximizing therapeutic benefits.
Ridge preservation using octacalcium phosphate collagen to induce new bone containing a vascular network of mainly Type H vessels
Authors: Kaida Naoki , Matsunaga Satoru , Tachiki Chie , Sugahara Keisuke , Kasahara Norio , Ohtsu Yuto , Abe Shinichi , Yamamoto Hitoshi , Katakura Akira , Nishii Yasushi
Published: December 2023

Many studies have shown that it is important to use bone grafts that are easy to mold, bioabsorbable, and stable over time. We focused on Type H blood vessels, which were discovered by Kusumbe et al. in 2014 to be responsible for the interaction between angiogenesis and osteogenesis. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of octacalcium phosphate collagen (OCP/Col), on the healing processes of the extraction socket and the alveolar bone surrounding the extraction socket. Ridge preservation of rat lower first molars was conducted using OCP/Col, and a series of experiments involving micro-CT scanning, observations of new bone, bone morphometry measurements, histological and immunohistochemical analyses, and second harmonic generation imaging were conducted to analyze bone mass, bone quality, angiogenesis, and mechanical properties. The results demonstrate that the calcification level was not very high when using OCP/Col for RP. Moreover, the newly formed bone is rich in vascular components and collagen fibers that are essential for bone tissue remodeling. These characteristics of OCP/Col in RP could contribute significantly to the construction of a rich vascular network around dental implants immediately after implant placement and the subsequent acquisition of osseointegration and reconstruction of the surrounding tissue.
Establishment of a novel weight reduction index after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy based on abdominal fat area
Authors: Feng Tianyi , Pan Yunmiao , Hu Sanyuan , Song Changrong , Zhong Mingwei
Published: December 2023

Background: In light of ongoing research elucidating the intricacies of obesity and metabolic syndrome, the role of abdominal fat (especially visceral fat) has been particularly prominent. Studies have revealed that visceral adipose tissue can accelerate the development of metabolic syndrome by releasing various bioactive compounds and hormones, such as lipocalin, leptin and interleukin.Objectives The purpose of this study was to ascertain the reliability of abdominal fat area and other parameters as valid predictors of weight loss postoperatively.Method: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 167 patients with obesity. Among them, 105 patients who satisfied predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were included. The parameters evaluated included total abdominal fat area(TAFA), laboratory indicators and anthropometric measurements. Weight reduction was quantified through percent total weight loss (%TWL) and percent excess weight loss (%EWL) postoperatively. Binary logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were employed to identify predictors of weight loss.Result: Binary logistic regression analysis emphasized that total abdominal fat area was an independent predictor of %EWL ≥ 75%(p < 0.001). Total abdominal fat area(p = 0.033) and BMI(p = 0.003) were independent predictors of %TWL ≥ 30%.Conclusion: In our cohort, weight loss at 1 year after surgery was closely related to the abdominal fat area at the preoperative third lumbar plane. Based on these results, we formulated a novel P-index,exhibiting superior predictive value for excellent weight loss.
Efficacy and safety of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for bipolar depression (EASyS-BD): a study protocol for a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled trial
Authors: Noda Takamasa , Nishikawa Masako , Matsuda Yuki , Hayashi Daisuke , Kito Shinsuke
Published: December 2023

Background: Bipolar disorder has a long depressive episode and high risk of suicide. In clinical practice, patients often show no response to pharmacotherapy, which results in prolongation of the depressive episode. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive technique expected to serve as a treatment option for bipolar depression. For bipolar depression, a meta-analysis suggested that low-frequency stimulation to the right prefrontal cortex was possibly effective. However, a medium or large sample, randomized, double blind, sham controlled study has not yet been performed.
Objective: To examine the efficacy and safety of 1-Hz rTMS to the right prefrontal cortex in patients with treatment-resistant bipolar depression. rTMS was approved by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare as a highly advanced medical technology on March 1, 2019.
Methods: In this multicenter, double-blind, randomized, sham stimulation-controlled trial for bipolar depression, patients will be individually allocated to active or sham stimulation plus usual medication and followed up for 6 months. The conditions of stimulation by the Mag Pro R30 transcranial magnetic stimulation device (Magventure) will be a frequency of 1-Hz, intensity of 120% motor threshold, and duration of 1800 seconds to the right prefrontal cortex 5 days a week for 4 weeks during the acute treatment period. The primary endpoint will be a total change in the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale score during the acute treatment period.
Discussion: The outcomes of this study will inform clinical practice for the treatment of bipolar depression.
Clinical trial registration: Japan Registry of Clinical Trials, jRCTs032180138, https://jrct.niph.go.jp/latest-detail/jRCTs032180138
Screening of colorectal cancer risk factors based on Lasso regression and construction of nomogram prediction model
Authors: Hong Zhijun , Wang Ruiqi , Du Yue , Chi Huimin , Li Xiaofeng , Wang Chengfang
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Colorectal cancer has become the number one cancer of the digestive system and a serious risk to human health. This study explores the risk factors of colorectal cancer and provides a scientific basis for developing primary prevention measures for colorectal cancer.
Methods
Case and control groups were matched according to age (± 2) and gender (1∶1) factors, and risk factors for colorectal cancer were screened according to lasso regression and logistic regression analysis, and nomogram models were established, and subject working characteristic curves (ROC curves), calibration curves and decision curves were drawn for validation.
Results
A total of 175 cases in the case group and 175 cases in the control group were included. Lasso regression screened 23 significant variables, and logistic regression analysis showed that age, intestinal adenoma, eating meat, lamb, smoking, alcohol consumption and frequency of alcohol consumption were independent risk factors for colorectal cancer, and eating fruits, vegetables, chicken and exercise intensity were protective factors for colorectal cancer (P value < 0.05).The ROC curve analyzed the predictive value of the nomogram model with an AUC of 0.945 (95% CI: 92.2%-96.8%), with a sensitivity of 88.571 and specificity of 92.000. calibration curves and decision curves showed fair agreement and benefit of the nomogram model.
Conclusion
Colorectal cancer occurs as a result of multiple factors, and constructing a prediction model that includes relevant factors can effectively predict the risk of development and achieve primary prevention.
A Comprehensive Study on Other Disease Mortality Risk Factors in Elderly Gastric Cancer Patients Post-Curative Surgery
Authors: Ushimaru Yuki , Nagano Shinnosuke , Nishikawa Kazuhiro , Kawabata Ryohei , Takeoka Tomohira , Kitagawa Akihiro , Ohara Nobuyoshi , Tomihara Hideo , Maeda Sakae , Imazato Mitsunobu , Noura Shingo , Miyamoto Atsushi
Published: December 2023

Background.
With the rising incidence of gastric cancer in the elderly, there is an increasing need to understand the challenges and risks associated with surgical interventions tailored for this age group. This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with non-cancer-related mortality in elderly gastric cancer patients post-curative surgery.
Methods.
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 684 patients diagnosed with pathological Stage I - III gastric cancer who underwent curative resection at our institute between January 2012 and December 2021. The study focused on patients aged 70 years and above. Various clinical and pathological variables were assessed, and both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify potential risk factors tied to non-cancer-related mortality.
Results.
Of the 603 patients who underwent curative resection, 301 were aged 70 years or older. After exclusions, 244 patients were analyzed, with 33 succumbing to non-cancer-related causes. Pneumonia was the leading cause of non-cancer-related death. Univariate analysis identified age ≥80 years, BMI <18.5, high Charlson Comorbidity Index, and the presence of overall surgical complications as potential risk factors. In the multivariate analysis, age, BMI, and overall complications retained statistical significance.
Conclusion.
Elderly gastric cancer patients post-curative surgery face a pronounced risk of non-cancer-related mortality. Factors such as advanced age, low BMI, and postoperative complications significantly influence outcomes. These findings highlight the need for preoperative nutritional interventions to enhance outcomes in this population.
Creativity is not just ideation: Controlling stimulus ambiguity and inducing convergent thinking in the alternative uses task
Authors: Witczak Olga , Krzysik Iga , Bromberek-Dyzman Katarzyna , Thierry Guillaume , Jończyk Rafał
Published: December 2023

In the Alternate Uses Task (AUT), a well-established creativity assessment, participants propose alternative uses for common items (e.g., a brick) within a 2-3-minute timeframe. While idea selection (convergent thinking) is involved, the emphasis is strongly on idea generation (divergent thinking). Here, we test the value of presenting a word overlapping an image compared to a word only prompt, and we introduce a novel cyclic procedure explicitly calling upon convergent thinking in the AUT. In Experiment 1, as compared to word only, word+image prompts increased idea fluency but reduced idea originality and variability within a group of native Polish speakers. Thus, word+image prompts improve AUT baselining. In Experiment 2, different participants produced as many ideas as possible within two minutes (List) or their single best idea at the end of each of three 30-second ideation cycles (Cycle). Although originality did not differ between List and Cycle overall, the first three ideas in List were rated as less creative than the ideas in Cycle, due to involvement of convergent thinking. Overall, we conclude that using disambiguating images reduces spurious interindividual variability in the AUT while introducing a convergent thinking component in the task allows us to assess creativity beyond ideation.
Job stress among nursing staff and its impact on performance in hospitals: A case study
Authors: Alraimi Ammar , Shelke Prof. Abhijeet
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to investigate the levels of job stress among nursing staff and its impact on their performance. The study was conducted in the largest hospital in Yemen, utilizing a case study design. A random sample of 284 nurses was drawn from a population of 1,200, and data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire that assessed job stress and performance levels. The study found that nursing staff experienced moderate job stress, with organizational structure being the most significant stressor. The nursing staff's performance was rated as excellent, and a moderate correlation between job stress and performance was observed. Notably, the work environment's job stress factor had a substantial influence on performance. These findings are consistent with previous studies that reported moderate job stress and a favorable relationship between job stress and performance among nursing staff in various settings. However, the study's emphasis on the work environment's impact on performance underscores the importance of addressing this factor to improve nursing staff performance. Hospital administrators and policymakers may benefit from implementing job-stress-reduction techniques, particularly in organizational structure and work environment aspects, as well as enhancing nursing staff resilience and coping mechanisms. This study contributes to the existing knowledge on job stress and its effect on nursing staff performance in Yemen, providing valuable insights for stakeholders and future research in different settings and cultural contexts.
Altered Choroid Plexus Volume and Association with Migraine Pathophysiology
Authors: Xiong Jianmei , Liu Mengqi , Liu Huanbo , Li Xin , Chen Zhiye
Published: December 2023

Background
Although compelling evidences suggest that cortical spreading depression and the trigeminovascular system activation are the main mechanisms underlying the migraigenesis, it remains “a nearly complete mystery of how the migraine starts”. Direct evidence of choroid plexus structures involved in the presumed peripheral-central interaction in migraine is exceptionally scarce and, thus, which demands further attention.
Objectives
Our objective is to assess choroid plexus volumetric changes quantitatively in episodic and chronic migraine patients versus age and sex compared normal controls, and further to elucidate the migraine pathophysiology.
Methods
Total sixty-five participants including 18 episodic migraine patients, 16 chronic migraine patients and 31 normal controls were recruited and underwent a brain MR examination with 3.0T MR strength between September 2021 to May 2023. The choroid plexus of the ventricles was segmented fully automatically on T1-weighted MRI sequences using the FreeSurfer (Version 5.3.0) software. Lateral ventricular choroid plexus volume was expressed as the ratio of choroid plexus to ipsilateral lateral ventricle volume (CP/LV). Group differences were assessed cross-sectionally. The accuracy of CP/LV for prediction of migraine was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic curves analysis.
Results
Patients with migraine were more anxious and depressive, with heavier headache burden and impaired cognitive ability. Statistical analysis revealed group differences of the CP/LV in the right side. CP/LV ration decreased in episodic migraine patients, but the CP/LV size increased with the prolongation of the disease duration. CP/LV of the right side was able to differentiate episodic migraine from controls with area under the ROC curve (AUC) 0.696 (95% CI: 0.550–0.818, sensitivity 100%, specificity 46.8%, and the cut-off value 0.0741, P < 0.05). The diagnostic efficacy was marginally higher in distinguishing chronic migraine from episodic migraine with AUC 0.715(95% CI: 0.536–0.856, sensitivity 50%, specificity 94.4% and the cut-off value 0.0725, P < 0.05).
Conclusion
Our finding suggested dynamic alteration of choroid plexus in the pathogenesis of migraine. The CP/LV volume was associated with the migraine duration. CP/LV volume can be used as a potential imaging biomarker for migraine diagnosis.
Patterns of ultra-processed foods consumption throughout childhood and trajectories of growth and adiposity
Authors: Magalhães Vânia , Severo Milton , Vilela Sofia , Torres Duarte , Lopes Carla
Published: December 2023

Background: Ultra-processed foods (UPF) consumption has been associated with unhealthy outcomes. However, the literature lacks robust longitudinal studies considering its cumulative effect, particularly in young populations. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between UPF consumption patterns throughout childhood with growth and adiposity trajectories.
Methods:Participants from the Generation XXI population-based birth cohort (Porto, Portugal) were included. Food frequency questionnaire items at 4, 7 and 10 years were classified according to the processing degree using the NOVA classification. UPF consumption patterns were identified using a probabilistic Gaussian mixture model using participants with complete data and predicting for the total sample (n=8647).
To assess whether the outcome trajectories from 4 to 13 years of age [body weight, height, body mass index (BMI) z-score, waist circumference (WC) and fat mass percentage (FM%)] depend on the UPF patterns, a mixed-effects model with linear and quadratic terms for age and adjusted for confounders was used. Participants with at least one measurement at 4, 7, 10 or 13 years were included in this study (n range: 5885-6272).
Results: Four UPF consumption patterns were identified: constantly lower consumption(15.4%), constantly intermediate consumption (56.4%), transition from low to high consumption (17.2%), and constantly higher consumption(17.1%). Compared to the constantly lower UPF consumption, the constantly higher consumption pattern was associated with greater acceleration in body weight (β: 0.119; 95%CI: 0.027;0.212), BMI z-score (β: 0.014; 95%CI: 0.004;0.023), WC (β: 0.232; 95%CI: 0.144;0.319) and FM% (β: 0.200; 95%CI: 0.092;0.308) and with lower acceleration in height (β: -0.063; 95%CI: -0.111;-0.015). The constantly intermediate UPF consumption pattern was associated with greater acceleration in body weight (β: 0.123; 95%CI: 0.043;0.203), WC (β: 0.120; 95%CI: 0.045;0.195) and FM% (β: 0.146; 95%CI: 0.054;0.238).
Conclusions: Constantly higher and constantly intermediate UPF consumption throughout childhood were associated with worse growth and adiposity trajectories until adolescence.
Prediction of repeat fragility fractures: Application of machine learning
Authors: Zabihiyeganeh Mozhdeh , Mirzaei Alireza , Tabrizian Pouria , Rezaee Aryan , Sheikhtaheri Abbas , Kadijani Azade Amini , Kadijani Bahare Amini , Kia Ali Sharifi
Published: December 2023

Background
Despite the exceptional performance of machine learning (ML) in modern medical research, it is rarely used for repeated-fracture prediction in osteoporotic patients. In this study, we aim to evaluate the predictive capability of various ML models and introduce features that are more relevant to repeated fragility fracture in osteoporotic patients.
Methods
Fragility fracture patients who were referred to our Fracture Liaison Service were divided into the index fragility fracture (n = 905) and repeated fragility fracture groups (n = 195). Twenty-seven features were used for model training in males and females separately. The ML models included random forest, XGBoost, CatBoost, logistic regression, LightGBM, AdaBoost, multi-layer perceptron, and support vector machine. A 10-fold cross-validation approach was used to assess the performance of the models.
Results
In almost all the feature sets, CatBoost had the best performance with a maximum area under the curve and accuracy of 0.951 and 87% for the female group and 0.990 and 93.4% for the male group, respectively. Age, CRP, vitamin D3, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), parathyroid hormone (PTH), femoral neck Z-score, menopause age, number of pregnancies, phosphorus, calcium, and body mass index had the highest contribution in the female group and CRP, femoral neck T-score, PTH, Hip T-score, BMI, BUN, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase, and spinal Z-score had the highest contribution in the male group.
Conclusion
ML models, particularly CatBoost, are promising tools for the prediction of repeat fragility fracture in osteoporotic patients. These models can help clinicians to implement personalized strategies to prevent repeat fragility fractures in the future.