bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of baseline plasma fibrinogen levels with cognitive and affective status at 30 and 90 days in individuals with ischemic stroke: A prospective study from Nigeria
Authors: Ademoyegun Adekola B. , Awotidebe Taofeek O. , Odetunde Marufat O. , Inaolaji Samuel O. , Bakare Serifat O. , Azeez Funmilola W. , Olayemi Olanrewaju 
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:
The influence of fibrinogen as a risk factor in developing poststroke neuropsychological and cognitive problems is underreported. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between baseline fibrinogen levels and depression, anxiety, and cognition 30- and 90-day after stroke.

METHODS:
This prospective study involved 48 patients with first-ever mild-to-moderate ischemic stroke, whose plasma fibrinogen levels were assessed within 24 h of stroke onset. Clinical depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment were evaluated by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Montreal Cognitive Assessment at 30- and 90-day after stroke.

RESULTS:
After adjusting for important covariates, the multiple linear regression models showed that baseline plasma fibrinogen was associated with the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline at both 30- and 90-day follow-up (P < 0.05). The receiver operating characteristic curve showed that baseline fibrinogen threshold > 409.0 mg/dl (82.4% sensitivity and 71.0% specificity), >405.0 mg/dl (80.0% sensitivity and 71.4% specificity), and > 400.0 mg/dl (80.6% sensitivity and 76.5% specificity) could respectively predict the presence of depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment 90 days after stroke.

CONCLUSIONS:
High levels of baseline plasma fibrinogen are associated with the onset and severity of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline at 30 and 90 days after stroke. This study shows that fibrinogen may be a viable target for monitoring and intervention in the management of poststroke neuropsychological and cognitive disorders. Future clinical trials are needed to clarify whether defibrinogenation will prevent or reduce the rate and severity of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline among patients with ischemic stroke.

TRIAL REGISTRATION:
Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (registration number: PACTR202406755848901).
Racial and gender disparities in patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion at a comprehensive stroke center
Authors: Duru Olivia , Eaton Ryan G. , Ritchey Nathan , Heaton Sharon , Powers Ciarán J. 
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION:
Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is the standard of care for acute ischemic stroke for select patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO). Although racial disparities in the utilization of thrombectomy have been previously identified, disparities in the utilization of thrombectomy in a single center with a standardized patient selection protocol have not been described in the literature.

METHODS:
Using the American Heart Association Quality Improvement Programs Registry, we retrospectively reviewed the records of 1,143 patients with LVO between December 1, 2014, and May 31, 2021. Patient records were assessed for demographic data, stroke risk factors, process metrics, and success of thrombectomy. A Pearson’s Chi-Squared and an independent two-sample t-test were used to determine the significance. Following this, a multivariate logistic regression was run to determine predictably of thrombectomy outcomes.

RESULTS:
Of the 1,143 LVO patients, 567 were male (49.6%), 576 were female, (50.4%), 963 were white (84.3%), and 180 were nonwhite (15.7%). Based on our Pearson’s Chi-squared analysis, female patients were more like to undergo thrombectomy compared to male patients (62.4% vs. 48.9%; P < 0.001). White patients were also more likely to undergo thrombectomy compared to nonwhite patients (58.7% vs. 39.7%; P < 0.001). After the multivariate logistic regression analysis and after controlling for comorbidities, insurance status, age, time to presentation (last known well to arrival), transfer from outside hospital, and zip codes, white patients were 2.29 times more likely to receive a thrombectomy compared to nonwhite patients (odds ratio [OR], 2.29, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.33, 3.944). Patients with Medicare insurance were 33.57 times more likely to receive a thrombectomy compared to those without medicare (OR, 33.57, 95% CI, 20.37, 55.327). In the regression model, sex did not contribute significantly to the likelihood of receiving a thrombectomy.

CONCLUSIONS:
White patients were more likely to undergo MT. Female patients tended to have higher rates of MT, accounting for the fact that other variables could have influenced this. These disparities may result from a multitude of other factors such as eligibility for MT, delayed presentation, and adequate diagnosis of LVO in the emergency department. This study highlights the importance of and potential causes of these disparities. Further investigation with data from multiple centers is necessary to validate these findings and identify strategies for improving utilization of thrombectomy.
A Narrative Review on Evaluation of Causal Drug in Cutaneous Drug Eruptions: Challenges, Current State, and the Path Ahead
Authors: Ramassamy Sivaranjini 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The diagnosis of cutaneous drug reactions is challenging, particularly when it involves the identification of the culprit drug. This exercise is, however, essential, as re-prescription of the offending drug is harmful to the patient while holding back an essential drug for the fear or suspicion of an allergy could result in a less effective second line or an expensive alternative, both of which are undesirable. We need to be aware of the standard systematic approaches to the diagnosis of drug hypersensitivity and be familiar with the extant guidelines to inform clinical decision making. The clinical tools available for a definite diagnosis are a clinical history, standardized skin tests, drug challenge, and a few biological tests that are in the pipeline. An understanding of the basis for each of these with the steps involved, interpretations, and limitations is important for optimal practice. This review will highlight the key messages concerning the role of each of these tools available for the identification of causal drugs in drug hypersensitivity with the challenges involved in their application, plausible solutions, and the way forward.
Current perspectives on topical antiallergics
Authors: Gokhale Nikhil S 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Allergy is one of the most common diagnoses in an ocular surface clinic, and its treatment can range from a simple lubricant to the most complex combinations of medications belonging to several diverse classes. Antiallergics are the most commonly used medication overall in all forms of allergy. Several options are available, and it is important to understand how to start, select, and continue their use. Understanding the nature and severity of allergy is key to understand the effectiveness and limitations of this class of drugs in each patient. The article provides a brief overview of antiallergics in the for the busy practitioner.
Imaging Characteristics of Frozen Corpses: An Analysis Based on Postmortem Computed Tomography
Authors: Li Sunao , Jin Wenju , He Jiahui , He Jun , Qiu Mingjie , Gao Wenjing , Fu Long , Shen Haibin , Xia Zhiyuan , Ding Xilian 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
As traditional autopsy rates decline, the importance of forensic imaging, particularly postmortem computed tomography (PMCT), grows for non-invasive cause of death determination and evidence collection in legal investigations, with unique considerations required for frozen corpses due to the lack of systematic imaging characteristic studies.

Aims and Objectives:
This study aims to fill the gap in current knowledge by systematically analyzing the PMCT imaging characteristics of frozen corpses.

Materials and Methods:
This study utilized postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) and postmortem computed tomography angiography (PMCTA) to examine tissue changes during the freezing and thawing process in a total of 61 corpses.

Results:
The results demonstrated that imaging changes in the brain were most pronounced during freezing and thawing, with a clear correlation to the duration of freezing/thawing and the position of the corpses. Typical ice crystal artifacts were observed in body fluids after freezing, while thawing led to a marked increase and redistribution of internal gas. Serial angiographic studies revealed “pseudo-brain hemorrhage” in the brainstem and cerebellum in several cases due to incomplete thawing and transport.

Conclusion:
This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the CT imaging characteristics of frozen corpses, elucidating the imaging features during the freezing and thawing processes.
Virtopsy: Development and Application in Forensic Practice
Authors: Zou Dong-Hua , Liu Yuan-Yuan , Liu Ning-Guo , Chen Yi-Jiu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Although represents traditional and classical examination in forensic medicine, nowadays, autopsy, sometimes, is still rejected or not tolerated for its damage to the corpse. Virtopsy offers a noninvasive investigation approach and can also reflect fracture, soft-tissue injury, wound track, and organ trauma objectively and accurately. In addition, virtual autopsies can be used as a complementary tool for areas that are difficult or complex to dissect; in certain cases, where the destruction of a body is prohibited, virtual autopsies provide an alternative to traditional autopsies as an examination method. The virtual autopsy can scan and record a body from head to toe in a short, quick operation, which greatly improves the efficiency of forensic identification. On the other hand, the virtual autopsy is permanently stored through DICOM data and can be subject to a variety of postprocessing operations. Virtual autopsy provides two-dimensional and three-dimensional postprocessing techniques, combining surface and in vivo information with geometrically realistic records, and even combining with finite elements for computer-simulated dynamic simulation studies. Thus, virtopsy can provide visual and powerful evidence for forensic pathological practice. This article mainly synthesizes the latest literature and reviews the application of virtopsy in forensic trauma identification, mechanical asphyxia, drowning, hypothermia and hyperthermia, disease diagnosis, as well as a new research direction of finite element method applied in trauma investigation.
Forensic Pathology of Society-Oriented Expert Identification Institutions in China: A Retrospective Study by 11-year Data from Academy of Forensic Science
Authors: Liu Yuan-Yuan , Fu En-Hao , Liu Ya-Wen , Zou Dong-Hua , Huang Jiang , Qin Hao-Jie , Liu Ning-Guo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective:
The aim of the study was to introduce the development of forensic pathology for social-oriented forensic-identification institutions, using the Academy of Forensic Science as an example.

Methods:
Cases were collected from the Forensic Pathology Section of the Academy of Forensic Science and classified and organized according to gender, source, type, manner of death, and virtual autopsies of the cases over the years. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed using SPSS and Excel tables so as to summarize forensic pathology for social-oriented services.

Results:
A total of 12,161 cases were collected from the forensic pathology department; the most cases were from the People’s Public Security sources, and the fewest cases were from the Department of Health; the most cases were commissioned for the examination of cadaver surface in forensic medicine (8323 cases), and the fewest were for injury examination (72 cases) and diatom examination (78 cases); there were a total of 322 cases of virtual autopsy examination during the 11-year period, of which 33 cases were performed for target-organ arteriography; the highest number of cases for accidental death examinations (8122 cases).

Conclusion:
The Academy of Forensic Science and other social-service-oriented identification organizations undertake identification work on cases commissioned to them by the local and local people’s public security, people’s procuratorates, and people’s court systems. Virtual autopsy technology and other new technologies, new methods, and new standards to make up for the shortcomings of the traditional autopsy, to provide identification and research support, and subsequent prospective research to provide a database.
A Pilot Study on Forensic Imaging of Mechanical Injuries
Authors: Wu Bin , Li Yang , Li Yang , Wu Bin , Hu Xiao-Fei , Xia Zhi-Yuan , Li Wei , He Guang-Long , Li Jian-Jun 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Postmortem imaging has played an important role in the field of forensic medicine.

Objective:
To preliminarily explore the application value of cadaver imaging in mechanical injury.

Methods:
Three cases of mechanical injury were collected, and the external examination, postmortem computed tomography (PMCT), postmortem computed tomography angiography (PMCTA), and autopsy examination were performed in proper order to compare and analyze the diagnostic ability of postmortem imaging in the exploration of fractures, organ ruptures, and bleeding sources.

Conclusion:
Postmortem imaging (PMCT and PMCTA) has important application value in the analysis of cause of death, inference of injury objects, wound reconstruction, and search for bleeding sources. The combination of postmortem imaging and traditional anatomy can significantly improve the quality of forensic examinations.
Current Status of Forensic Virtual Autopsy Laboratory Construction in China
Authors: Meng Yunle , Lyu Tu , Yang Chaopeng , He Guanglong 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
With the advancements in technology and the evolution of forensic science, virtual autopsy techniques have gained increasing attention and promotion in China. Several provinces have established virtual autopsy laboratories within their public security system. However, these initiatives face challenges including equipment costs, the needs for technological updates, professional training, and the establishment of regulatory standards. This study utilized literature analysis, academic exchanges, surveys, and field investigations to examine the current state of virtual autopsy laboratory construction within the Chinese public security system. It identifies existing issues and explores future prospects when offering recommendations for improvement. The goal is to providing insights that may facilitate the development and enhancement of virtual autopsy laboratories in future.
Impacts of Diabetes Mellitus Oral Manifestation on Quality of Life: A Systematic Review
Authors: Alghazaly Farouk , Hariyani Ninuk , Setyowati Dini , Alghazali KhairAlah , Aljunaid Mohammed Ahmed 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Aims:
This study aimed to investigate and synthesize existing literature on the oral manifestations in individuals with diabetes mellitus and their impact on quality of life (QOL), to mitigate these complications and their consequences.

Materials and Methods:
The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO under the registration number CRD42023469966. A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed and Scopus databases without date restrictions to identify relevant studies based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. This study included observational studies, such as crosssectional, case–control, and cohort studies, as well as clinical trials that examined the relationship between DM exposure and QOL outcomes. Two independent reviewers screened the articles, extracted data, and assessed their quality. Due to significant heterogeneity among studies—including variations in research design, participant selection, study duration, questionnaires, and diagnostic approaches—a meta-analysis was not feasible. The search encompassed English language publications available until October 2023.

Results:
Of the 1517 records screened, 33 studies met the eligibility criteria, comprising 28 observational studies (22 cross-sectional, 5 case–control, and 1 combined cross-sectional and case–control), and 5 intervention studies. The oral manifestations connected to DM were PD (periodontitis, gingivitis), xerostomia (reduced salivary flow, hypo salivation or drying of the mouth), tooth caries (root decay), halitosis (bad breath), tooth loss, pain, and oral health statues. There was a significant variation in the definition of oral manifestations across the studies. The variations primarily involved the criteria used to determine the extent and severity of these manifestations and to define a “case” of an oral manifestation.

Conclusion:
This review confirms a clear association between diabetes and impaired oral health, highlighting its adverse effects on QOL, particularly in individuals with periodontitis and xerostomia. The findings underscore the need for future research employing standardized methodologies to better understand these relationships and to develop targeted interventions aimed at improving oral health outcomes and overall QOL for individuals with diabetes.

Systematic Review Registration:

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/export_details_pdf.php? ID=CRD42023469966.
Prevalence and Influencing Factors of Rubber Dam Use among Tunisian Dentists: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fejjeri Meriem , Mezghanni Ahmed , Jaafoura Sabra , Bellali Hedia 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Context:
Despite its undeniable advantages, the rubber dam (RD) is still struggling to claim its rightful place as the most effective used isolation tool in endodontics. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of RD use during endodontic treatment and to identify factors associated with its use by Tunisian dentists.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted. An online Google Form was emailed to a sample of Tunisian dentists, randomly selected from the National Dental Council register. It contains 33 questions divided into five parts: demographic characteristics, general endodontic practice, clinical applications of RD, reasons for not using RD, and alternative methods. The sample size, comprising 300 dentists, was calculated considering a previous prevalence. Chi-square/Fisher exact tests and t test have been used to investigate factors influencing RD use. For the multivariable analysis, we used binary logistic regression.

Results:
Among the 174 respondents, 56.3% were women, with a mean age of 37.7 ± 6.6 years. Seventy-three percent did not have postgraduate training on RD placement. Seventy-one percent reported never using RD for root canal treatments (RCTs) during undergraduate study. Forty-four percent used it with variable frequencies. In the univariable analysis, the number of RCTs per week, years of experience, duration of endodontic sessions, age, pre-endodontic buildup, and undergraduate training were associated with RD use. In the logistic regression, the duration of endodontic sessions [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.053; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.023–1.083; P < 10−3] and the undergraduate training (adjusted OR = 4.625; 95% CI = [1.88–11.378]; P = 0.001) were associated with RD use.

Conclusion:
The use of RD by Tunisian dentists during endodontic procedures is not common. RD application is associated with the duration of the endodontic session and the undergraduate training. Greater emphasis should be placed on the application of RD at dental school and in clinical practice through continuous dental education programs.
Poor Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Frailty Among PLWHIV: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Santos-Lins Larissa Souza , Santos Monah Sampaio , Amaral Sávio , Alves Carlos Roberto Brites , Lins-Kusterer Liliane 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Aims:
This study aimed to explore the association between frailty and pre-frailty in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWHIV), focusing on their oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted with 184 PLWHIV. Frailty status was assessed using Fried’s frailty criteria, categorizing participants as robust, pre-frail, or frail. The oral health profile was evaluated using the World Health Organization and European Association of Public Dental Health criteria. OHRQoL was assessed using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14), while HRQoL was measured using the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2). Descriptive statistics were calculated, and associations were analyzed using Spearman’s correlation and one-way ANOVA, with significance set at P ≤ 0.05.

Results:
The pre-frail and frail PLWHIV groups reported significantly lower HRQoL scores across all domains compared to the robust group. Additionally, robust PLWHIV exhibited better oral health outcomes, with higher mean OHIP-14 scores (P = 0.005), attributed to fewer missing teeth (P = 0.019) and a higher number of filled teeth (P = 0.031). The total OHIP-14 score showed a moderate negative correlation with various SF-36v2 domains, particularly in the pre-frail and frail groups. Specifically, physical pain and physical disability subdomains of HRQoL were most affected by poorer OHRQoL.

Conclusions:
Frail and pre-frail PLWHIV demonstrated significantly poorer OHRQoL compared to robust PLWHIV, with a particular impact on physical pain and physical disability. A negative correlation between OHRQoL and HRQoL was evident, especially in the frail and pre-frail groups, highlighting the interrelationship between oral health and overall well-being in this population. Clinically, this suggests that improving OHRQoL could be an essential component of healthcare for frail and pre-frail PLWHIV, as enhancing oral health may positively influence their general health outcomes. Targeted interventions to manage frailty and improve oral health are needed to enhance both OHRQoL and HRQoL in this vulnerable group.
Influence of Ferrule Design and Occlusal Thickness on the Fracture Resistance and Failure Patterns of Zirconia Endocrowns
Authors: Panda Subhendu Kumar , Patro Tapan Kumar , Dhal Angurbala , Garhnayak Lokanath , Kumar Ullash , Pattanaik Nagen Ray 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Background and Objective:
Zirconia endocrowns are a popular restorative option due to their fracture resistance and aesthetic appeal, but the influence of different preparation designs on their performance remains underexplored. This study evaluated the effects of preparation design and the occlusal thickness on the fracture strength and failure modes of zirconia endocrowns in endodontically treated teeth.

Materials and Methods:
Thirty-two extracted human mandibular first molars were endodontically treated and divided into four groups (n = 8), based on margin design and occlusal thickness: Group A: 2 mm butt joint with 3 mm occlusal thickness, Group B: 1 mm butt joint with 4 mm occlusal thickness, Group C: 2 mm ferrule with 3 mm occlusal thickness, and Group D: 1 mm ferrule with 4 mm occlusal thickness. Zirconia endocrowns were fabricated using CAD/CAM technology and cemented with self-adhesive resin cement. The specimens were subjected to thermocycling and then tested for fracture strength using a universal testing machine. Failure modes were analyzed under a stereomicroscope. Data were statistically analyzed.

Results:
Group B showed the highest mean fracture strength (6655.66 N), followed by Group D at 6091.00 N. Group C exhibited the lowest fracture strength (4867.41 N), although the differences were not statistically significant (P = 0.121). Type V failure was the most common failure mode across all groups, with 100% occurrence in both 2 mm margin groups (Groups A and C).

Conclusion:
Margin design and occlusal thickness appeared to influence the fracture strength and failure modes of zirconia endocrowns; the differences were not significant.