bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Psychometric Properties and Cross-Cultural Adaptation of the 6-item UCLA Loneliness Scale among Older Iranian People
Authors: Bahadori Farzaneh , Asadollahi Abdolrahim , Ghajari Ogholgol , Yarelahi Mahsa 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Loneliness is common in old individuals, and the UCLA loneliness scale is one of the most reliable tools for measuring loneliness worldwide. The present study aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of the 6-item UCLA loneliness scale in the Iranian older population.
Methods
In this psychometric study, we outline the translation and validation of the 6-item UCLA loneliness scale among 612 older adults with a mean age of 68.2 ± 7.2 years (females = 60.9%) in 2023. The participants were selected via stratified random sampling. Data were collected through face‒to-face interviews via the UCLA Loneliness Scale, Loneliness Scale, Oxford Happiness Scale, and demographic questionnaire. The data were analyzed via SPSS version 26 and AMOS version 25 software. The content validity, construct validity, and internal consistency were investigated, and ROC analysis and convergent validity were also assessed.
Results
Approximately two-thirds of the participants were married, and three-fourths had at least one chronic condition. The EFA assigned a two-factor solution for the UCLA loneliness scale, confirmed by CFA (GFI = 0.90, CFI = 0.91, and RMSEA = 0.056). Internal consistency was confirmed by the ICCs, Cronbach’s alphas, and McDonald’s Omega values (a ≥ 0.90). The ROC analysis indicated an exact cutoff value for older adults with and without severe loneliness with high sensitivity and specificity.
Conclusion
The Persian version of the 6-Item UCLA loneliness scale presented adequate psychometric properties and could be used to confidently measure loneliness in community-dwelling older adults.
Effect of Single-Visit Full-Mouth Non-Surgical Therapy on Long-Term Periodontal Treatment Outcomes: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Mandil Obada , Alrmali Abdusalam , Kalani Khushboo , Ray Bidisha , Ghataliya Parth , Alhazmi Shahad , Levine Robert A , Saleh Muhammad H.A. , Wang Hom-Lay 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Managing periodontitis typically involves time-intensive biofilm removal. Single-visit full-mouth instrumentation presents a potential approach for controlling disease progression during supportive periodontal therapy (SPT). This study examines its efficacy and identifies factors contributing to tooth loss due to periodontitis (TLP) after such therapy.
Methods
Data from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry's patient charts were analyzed retrospectively. Included were patients with periodontal breakdown during SPT (PiKS) treated with single-visit full-mouth ultrasonic instrumentation. Periodontal status at baseline and follow-up were compared. Statistical analyses were conducted using multi-level binary logistic regression with generalized estimation equations (GEE) and linear regression models.
Results
Among 283 patients (mean age: 53.2 years), the mean TLP was 0.9 teeth per patient over a mean follow-up of 19.4 years. Factors significantly associated with TLP included diabetes (OR = 2.41; p = 0.013), current smoking (OR = 2.13; p = 0.025), higher periodontitis Grades B and C (OR = 3.31; p = 0.001), and Stages III-IV (OR = 8.67; p = 0.001). Baseline pocket depths ≥ 5mm (OR = 1.13; p = 0.002) and ≥ 6mm (OR = 1.29; p = 0.001) were also associated with higher TLP. Each additional annual SPT visit reduced the TLP risk by half (OR = 0.50; p = 0.003). Pocket depths ≥ 5mm showed minimal increase change (0.16; p = 0.02), while depths ≥ 6mm actually decreased (-0.10; p = 0.01).
Conclusion
Single-visit full-mouth instrumentation is effective for managing PiKS. Diabetes, smoking, severe periodontitis Stages, Grades, and deeper baseline pockets are predictors of TLP.
PeiTuQingXin Formula alleviated Atopic Dermatitis symptoms via inhibiting TRADD/TRAF2/RIP1 complex mediated NF-κB signaling pathway activation
Authors: Cheng Zixuan , Ma Xin , Luo Feng , Mo Xiumei , Liu Junfeng , Chen Dachan , Yan Fenggen 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with recurrent course, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) was regarded to exert improvement in treating AD patients. This study aims to evaluate the potential therapeutic effects and mechanism of PTQX formula in treating house dust mite (HDM)-induced AD model. Briefly, the NC/Nga mouse was divided into control, AD and PTQX group (n=5) and stimulated with HDM oinment. PTQX formula exerted significant anti-inflammation effect, alleviated dermatitis performance, decreased the serum IgE and other inflammatory cytokines level, and downregulated the Th2 cells ratio in lymph node. The inflammatory cytokines level was measured by an inflammatory cytokine array kit (RayBio®), and decreased inflammatory cytokines level was found after PTQX formula intervention. KEGG pathway enrichment revealed the anti-inflammation effect was exerted via regulating NF-κB and Toll-like receptor signaling pathway. The data independent acquisition (DIA) proteomics analysis results showed expression of totally 149 proteins were regulated by PTQX formula, meanwhile the TRADD expression was significantly downregulated. Western blot results showed the expression of TRADD/TRAF2/RIP1 complex was decreased in the skin tissue of PTQX group, accompanied by inhibition of NF-κB signaling pathway activity. This finding indicated the treating effect of PTQX formula is exerted via inhibiting the expression of TRADD/TRAF2/RIP1 complex and downregulating the activity of NF-κB signaling pathway.
Comparisons among radiologist, MR findings and radiomics-clinical models in predicting placenta accreta spectrum disorders: a multicenter study
Authors: Guo Changyi , Guo Shunlin , He Chao , Zhang Xirong , Han Dong , Tan Hui , Huang Xiaoqi , Li Yiming 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective: To assess and compare the diagnostic accuracy of radiologist, MR findings, and radiomics-clinical models in the diagnosis of placental implantation disorders.
Methods: Retrospective collection of MR images from patients suspected of having placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) was conducted across three institutions: Institution I (n=505), Institution II (n=67), and Institution III (n=58). Data from Institution I were utilized to form a training set, while data from Institutions II and III served as an external test set. Radiologist diagnosis was performed by radiologists of varying levels of experience. The interpretation of MR findings was conducted by two radiologists with 10-15 years of experience in pelvic MR diagnosis, following the guidelines for diagnosis. Radiomics analysis extracted features from sagittal T2-weighted images and combined them with prenatal clinical features to construct predictive models. These models were then evaluated for discrimination and calibration to assess their performance.
Results: As measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), the diagnostic efficacy was 0.587 (0.542-0.630) for junior radiologists from Institution I, 0.568 (0.441-0.689) from Institution II, and 0.507 (0.373-0.641) from Institution III. The AUC was 0.623 (0.580-0.666) for senior radiologists from Institution I, 0.635 (0.508-0.749) from Institution II, and 0.632 (0.495-0.755) from Institution III. The diagnostic efficacy of MR findings was 0.648 (0.601-0.695) for Institution I, 0.569 (0.429-0.709) for Institution II, and 0.588 (0.442-0.735) for Institution III. The diagnostic efficacy of the Radiomics-clinical model was significantly higher, with an AUC of 0.794 (0.754-0.833) for Institution I, 0.783 (0.664-0.903) for Institution II, and 0.816 (0.704-0.927) for Institution III. The diagnostic efficacy of the Fusion model was significantly higher, with an AUC of 0.867 (0.836-0.899) for Institution I, 0.849 (0.753-0.944) for Institution II, and 0.823(0.708-0.939) for Institution III.
Conclusion: The fusion models demonstrated superior diagnostic efficacy compared to radiologists, MR findings, and the radiomics-clinical models. Furthermore, the diagnostic accuracy of PAS was notably higher when utilizing the radiomics-clinical models than when relying solely on radiologist diagnosis or MR findings.
Advances in knowledge:Radiomics analysis substantially augments the diagnostic precision in PAS, providing a significant enhancement over conventional radiologist and MRI findings. The diagnostic efficacy of the fusion model is notably superior to that of individual diagnostic modalities.
Perceptions of Creepiness and the “Kubrick Stare”
Authors: Lévesque Elle , Howse Melissa , Doyle Jessica , Watt Margo , Kachafanas Yanna , Lively Christopher , Hauf Petra 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Creepiness is a commonly experienced but little understood construct. The present study examined the impact of target facial image gender and orientation on perceptions of creepiness, and whether perceptions varied by participant sex and discomfort with ambiguity (DAS). Participants [n = 137, 68.6% female; Mage = 23.71 (9.73) years] rated the creepiness, trustworthiness, and attractiveness of 44 target images – 11 male and 11 female images, in each of two conditions: upright and downward tilted head or “Kubrick stare”. After controlling for participant age, results did not vary significantly by participant sex or DAS level (high vs. low). As predicted, creepiness ratings were significantly higher in the Kubrick stare (vs. upright) condition and for male (vs. female) faces with the magnitude of difference significantly higher for male (vs. female) faces in the Kubrick stare (vs. upright) condition; η2 = .46 [lower limit = .35 and upper limit = .54] vs. η2 = .32 [lower limit = .21 and upper limit = .41], respectively. There was no association between creepiness and trustworthiness in either condition. Results extend our understanding of how we perceive creepiness and the importance of face orientation in social processing.
Risk factors of axial symptoms after posterior cervical spine surgery：a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Ke , Xiong Zhencheng , Zhang Yuhao , Zhan Sizhen , Tan Mingsheng , Yi Ping , Zhuang ZIYI 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Axial symptoms are a frequent complication after posterior cervical spine surgery.While literature has documented risk factors for these symptoms, they are still debated. This study's objective was to explore the risk elements associated with axial symptoms following posterior cervical spine surgery.
Methods
Our search encompassed The Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and web of science databases, focusing on studies documenting complications related to cervical laminectomy and laminoplasty. In every study included, we documented axial symptom occurrences and computed Odds ratios (ORs), 95% confidence intervals (Cls), Q values, and 12 values.
Results
Nineteen different studies were finally included,and the final risk factors were analysed in summary as described below:preoperative neck pain(OR=2.22,95%CI(1.48,3.33),P=0.0001),facet joint destruction(OR=2.32,95%CI(1.59,3.39),P<0.0001),C2involvement(OR=3.78,95%CI(2.04,7.01),P<0.0001),C7spinous process(muscle)destruction(OR=3.38,95%CI(1.13,10.08),P=0.03),routine posterior cervical spine surgery(OR=6.18,95%CI(2.43,15.69),P=0.0001);protective factors were as follows:Increase range of motion after cervical spine surgery(OR=0.64,95%CI(0.44,0.92),P=0.02),enlargement of the preoperative C2-7 Cobb angle(OR=0.57,95%CI(0.39,0.82),P=0.003).
Conclusion
Preoperative neck pain, facet joints destruction, C7 spinous process(muscle)destruction, conventional posterior cervical spine surgery and C2 involvement were risk factors for postoperative axial symptoms after posterior cervical spine surgery, and preoperative C2-C7 Cobb enlargement and increased postoperative cervical range of motion were protective factors for postoperative axial symptoms, however, gender, age, operation time, JOA score, C2-7 SVA, blood loss, and types of disease were not associated with postoperative axial symptoms. Considering the scarce volume of research available, this inference demands careful interpretation and necessitates expanded studies.
Comparison of Global and Regional Myocardial Blood Flow Quantification using Dynamic Solid-State Detector SPECT and Tc-99m-sestamibi or Tc-99m-tetrofosmin in a routine clinical setting
Authors: Wieting Wiebke , Bengel Frank M. , Diekmann Johanna 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose:
Solid-state detector single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) enables the acquisition of dynamic data for calculation of myocardial blood flow (MBF) and myocardial flow reserve (MFR). Here, we report about our experiences on clinical usefulness and robustness using Tc-99m-sestamibi and Tc-99m-tetrofosmin.
Methods:
307 patients underwent dynamic list-mode myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) and standard static MPI for clinical workup of coronary artery disease on a dedicated cardiac SPECT camera. MBF and MFR were calculated using a 1-tissue‐compartment model. Attenuation correction was performed for all patients using an external computed tomogram. Patients underwent stress-only scans, both stress and rest scans or rest-only scans using Tc-99m-tetrofosmin or Tc-99m-sestamibi. 30 patients without known cardiovascular comorbidities and without perfusion defect on static scans were compared in a sub analysis.
Results:
Global stress myocardial blood flow (MBF) was significantly higher than rest MBF (2.3 vs. 1.1 ml/min/g; p < 0.001), and showed a high variability among individuals. Global myocardial flow reserve (MFR) was 2.1 (range 0.5–7.8). An analysis of 30 patients without known cardiovascular comorbidities yielded similar stress MBF measures for Tc-99m-sestamibi and Tc-99m-tetrofosmin (3.1 ± 1.2 vs. 2.8 ± 0.9 ml/min/g; p = 0.429). The use of attenuation correction lead to systematically lower MBF measures. Patients who underwent a one-day protocol had notably higher rest MBF (1.2 ± 0.5 vs. 1.0 ± 0.46 ml/min/g; p = 0.009) and consequently a lower MFR. Summed defect scores from standard static scans and presence of cardiovascular comorbidities negatively impacted MBF and MFR.
Conclusion:
Quantitative SPECT MBF and MFR in a clinical routine setting yields flow measures in range of expectation at an albeit wide range and is comprehensibly linked with results from standard static scan and patients history of cardiovascular diseases. Use of one-day protocols and attenuation corrections systematically alters quantitative results.
Quantified motility assessment in paediatric inflammatory bowel disease: a multi-reader study
Authors: Meshaka Riwa , Fitzke Heather , Barber Joy , Foster Chloe , Reid Catriona , Allan Emma , Murphy Rebecca , Jones Kelsey , Taylor Stuart , Watson Tom 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Quantitative bowel motility in inflammatory bowel disease using magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) shows promise as a biomarker of disease activity against histopathological and biochemical markers of inflammation when used by experienced readers in a research setting.
Objective
The aim of this study was to test multi-reader agreement in quantified bowel motility by non-experienced readers.
Methods
A single centre, retrospective search included all patients <18 years with paediatric inflammatory bowel disease and more than one MRE between 2012-2022. Cine images from the first two MREs were processed using quantified motility software. Two experienced readers provided a reference standard for response using a consensus sMaRIA (decrease of ≥2 points) and measured the change (Δ) in motility index. Two senior and three junior readers visually assessed response for each patient, and recorded Δ motility index. Inter-reader agreement was assessed for each pair of readers as the Bland-Altman bias and limits of agreement for Δ motility index (arbitrary units, a.u.) and %agreement in the Δdirection.
Results
Percentage agreement in the Δdirection was fair to excellent: 84% (95% CI 75 to 93) between junior readers, 61% (95% CI 50 to 73) between senior readers, and 84% (95% CI 75 to 93) between experienced readers. Bland-Altman plots of ΔMI demonstrated no systematic bias and the junior readers’ limits of agreement were comparable to that of experienced readers.
Conclusion
Quantified bowel motility in paediatric inflammatory bowel disease measured by readers of varied experience yields good agreement.
Investigating Factors Influencing Utilization of Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Among Unaccompanied Young Refugees: An Exploratory Analysis
Authors: KASPARIK Barbara , FARANI Madina , PFEIFFER Elisa , SACHSER Cedric , ROSNER Rita 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Unaccompanied young refugees (UYRs) exhibit elevated levels of mental distress, including posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), depression and anxiety. Despite the considerable psychological burden, UYRs frequently lack access to mental health care (MHC). The factors that contribute to higher rates of treatment utilization among UYR remain poorly understood. Untreated PTSS can result in chronic impairment, underscoring the importance of identifying these factors. The aim of this study is to investigate factors associated with the intention and actual utilization of MHC of UYRs living in child and youth welfare facilities in Germany.
Method
This study is part of the multi-site project BETTER CARE which aims to implement a stepped and collaborative care approach. A sample of N = 139 UYRs who had received a treatment recommendation for trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) was analyzed. Binomial logistic regression was performed to identify factors prediction the likelihood of intention to seek MHC. In addition, the association between intention to seek MHC and actual utilization was determined using a chi square test.
Results
The results demonstrated a significant correlation between age, length of stay in Germany, and severity of PTSD symptoms with intention to use MHC. In the logistic regression analysis, PTSD emerged as a significant predictor of intended use. The utilization of MHC was found to be closely associated with the initial intention to use.
Conclusions
The findings contribute to an expanding body of literature on the mental health requirements and service utilization patterns among UYRs, offering insights for policymakers, mental health professionals, and child welfare services striving to enhance care for this vulnerable population.
Effect of Gamma Radiation on Human Enemal Chemical and Pshysical Properties
Authors: Silva Pollyanna Nogueira Ferreira da , Barcellos Maria Carolina Fernandes , Costa Fernanda Calvo , Silva Celio dos Santos , Manea Sílvio , Gonçalez Odair Lellis , Jardim Vitor Ribeiro , Martins Gislene Valdete , Lima Nelson Batista , Found Anelyse Arata , De Souza Grace Mendonça , Kaminagakura Estela , Tango Rubens Nisie 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Gamma radiation is still used in developing countries for head and neck cancer treatment. Irradiated dental enamel undergoes dose-dependent chemical and mechanical changes that can hinder oral rehabilitation. Understanding these processes can be useful to professionals to plan safer long-lasting treatments. This study aimed to evaluate different doses of gamma radiation on the chemical and mechanical properties of human dental enamel.
Methods: Sixty human third molars were divided into six groups (n = 10), according to dose: 0; 20; 40; 50; 60; or 70 Gy, in daily increments of 2 Gy. After irradiation, the composition and carbonate/ phosphate ratio (C:P) were evaluated by Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to evaluate crystal size (shape factor) and crystallinity. Hardness, elastic modulus, and scratch resistance were measured, and the microstructure was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data of C:P, crystallinity (%), shape factor (nm), hardness (VHN - Vickers Hardness Number), and elastic modulus (GPa - Gigapascals) were submitted to analysis of variance and to Tukey's test (α=0.05).
Results: FTIR showed carboxylic acid in the irradiated groups and an increase in C:P for the 70 Gy group (p = 0.015), but with no change in crystalline structure. A significant decrease was observed in the values of hardness (p=0.0000) and the elastic modulus (p=0.0000) in the irradiated groups. For scratch test, the 60 and 70Gy groups showed lower values for initial spallation. SEM showed spaced rounded peaks of enamel prisms in the 60 and 70 Gy groups.
Conclusions: Gamma radiation negatively affected the chemical and physical properties of human enamel.
Trial registration: Plataforma Brasil, CAAE: 66495417.1.0000.007.
Groundwater Recharge Modelling at Godagari using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT)
Authors: Tithi Sumaia Ahmed , Bari Md. Niamul 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Accurate groundwater recharge assessment is a prerequisite for efficiently managing groundwater resources. In places with low rainfall, especially in arid regions, the level of groundwater is consistently decreasing. As a result, there is a shortage of groundwater resources, which significantly impacts the economy, particularly in relation to irrigation. One of the bottlenecks in evaluating groundwater resources is determining the rate of aquifer recharge. Unlike simpler water balance models, SWAT utilizes physical equations to represent key hydrological processes governing recharge. This allows for a more realistic simulation of recharge based on factors like soil properties, vegetation cover, and topography. Thus, this project aims to create a model using the SWAT model at Godagari, which is situated in the northern region of Bangladesh, to estimate groundwater recharge, aiming to reduce uncertainties and errors in the recharge assessment to the greatest extent possible. The ArcSWAT extension of SWAT version 2009 was used for setting up the model. The model was set up from 1991 to 2022 using weather data, a digital elevation model, a soil map, and a land use and land cover map. The maps were prepared using ArcGIS version 10.7.1. The SWAT model simulation results indicate that out of the total average annual rainfall of 1272.72 mm, only 119.01 mm replenishes the groundwater, 678.09 mm contribute to surface runoff, and 473.20 mm are lost through evapotranspiration. The simulated annual recharge varied from 83.89 to 194.78 mm, indicating a relatively low recharge. The comparison of yearly observed and SWAT simulated recharge showed that the Nash-Sutcliffe coefficient of effectiveness or efficiency (NSE) and coefficient of determination (R2) for the calibration period (1993–2012) and the validation period (2013–2022) are 0.76, 0.69, and 0.81, 0.86, respectively. These results show that the model's performance was satisfactory. SWAT modeling is a feasible option over field-scale approaches for assessing groundwater recharge. The assessments of groundwater recharge using the SWAT model can provide information for developing policies to ensure the sustainable management of water resources in dry areas like the Barind region of Bangladesh. Implementing measures such as zoning and water harvesting that are based on recharge patterns may ensure aquifer replenishment. We can protect groundwater resources and promote long-term water security by prioritizing recharge evaluations in policy creation.