bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of ammonium iodide on the structure and ionic conductivity of carboxymethyl cellulose-based gel polymer electrolytes for electrochemical devices
Authors: Singh Shubham , Singh CP , Shukla Pushpendra K , Singh Lovely , Bin Yahya Muhd Zu Azhan , Agrawal SL 
Published: December 2024

Gel polymer electrolytes show great potential for use in electrochemical devices. In this work, free standing Gel Polymer Electrolytes (GPEs) based on a non-hazardous and environment friendly material carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is successfully developed. The effect of doping ammonium iodide (NH4I) into carboxymethyl cellulose based polymer gel matrix has been examined for its structural, thermal, electrical, and electrochemical stability properties with the aim of prospective applications in electrochemical devices. Gel polymers films have been fabricated using the widely recognized solution casting method. The characterization of these (GPEs) has been performed employing X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV). An increase in the amorphous nature of the gel electrolyte films has been observed in the X-ray diffraction when the NH4I salt content increases. DSC studies also confirmed the formation of gel electrolyte system with an increased degree of amorphousness. The potentiostatic polarization studies reveal the electrolyte system to be ionic. The room-temperature conductivity is found to reach an optimum of 4.4 × 10−3 S/cm for 25 wt% salt concentration. All of these findings have been appropriately explained.
Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis for preventing bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Are clinical providers supportive?
Authors: Imerlishvili Esma , Lake John , Todorovic Sara , Gonzalez Charles , Boos Elizabeth M , Hart-Malloy Rachel 
Published: December 2024

Background Bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to increase in the United States. Despite evidence of the effectiveness of doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (Doxy-PEP) to prevent STIs, little is known about providers’ attitudes and willingness to implement Doxy-PEP. Methods An online questionnaire was sent to 575 clinical providers in New York State in September 2022. Results Ninety-one eligible individuals responded. Most providers served men who have sex with men (MSM) (84%); reported willingness to recommend Doxy-PEP (98%, 77%, and 67% for chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea, respectively); preferred Doxy-PEP administration for MSM and transgender populations; believed recurring bacterial STIs (88%) and reported condomless sex (85%) were the most important characteristics to consider for recommending Doxy-PEP; and were concerned about antibiotic resistance (90%) (primarily for Neisseria gonorrhoeae). Insurance costs were the most perceived community-associated barriers (35%). There were no significant differences in providers’ recommendations towards Doxy-PEP use when comparing clinicians’ years of experience, regions, or professional titles. Conclusions Study results suggest high willingness and support for implementing Doxy-PEP. As this survey was administered prior to national guidelines on the use of Doxy-PEP, these data can be used as a baseline to compare to studies conducted after their release to formulate appropriate messages for providers to improve implementation.
The effectiveness of telitacicept in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A retrospective, real-world study
Authors: Hu Yinxiu , Wang Pengyu , Cao Xue , Wu Zhenbiao , Feng Yuan 
Published: December 2024

Objective Despite some study demonstrated the effectiveness of telitacicept in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a noticeable gap exists in real-world data. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness and safety of telitacicept in patients with SLE in the real-world. Method This retrospective study enrolled patients with SLE at the Tangdu Hospital from January 2022 to January 2023. These patients were administered telitacicept at 80 mg or 160 mg dosage. The observed outcomes were changes in the SLE Responder Index 4 (SRI-4), disease activity, renal function, and immunological indicators. Result Sixty-one patients were enrolled, with 60 patients completed the 24-week follow-up, and 30 completed the 52-week. The SRI-4 response rates at 4, 12, 24, and 52 weeks were 52.5%, 67.2%, 75.4%, and 80.0%, respectively. No statistically differences were observed in the SRI-4 response rates between the 80 mg and 160 mg doses at any of the time points (all p > 0.05). By 52 weeks, the Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment-SLE Disease Activity Index scores were significant decreased from baseline ( p < 0.001), and complement 3 and 4 levels ( p = 0.001), albumin levels ( p = 0.004), and the overall change in glucocorticoid dosage ( p < 0.001) were all significantly increased, with all showing significant changes over time ( p < 0.001). During the study, 3 (4.9%) patients experienced infection, and 1 (1.6%) developed an allergy at the injection site. Conclusion Telitacicept exhibited a highly effective and favorable safety in patients with SLE, with improved renal and hematological manifestations and facilitated a reduction in glucocorticoid medication usage.
Intraoperative nociceptive and clinical comparisons between ventral midline and flank ovariectomy in feral and stray cats
Authors: Martins João , Grossinho Afonso , Martins Liege , Cabral Patrícia , dos-Santos José Diogo , Campos Sónia 
Published: December 2024

Objectives The aim of the present study was to evaluate the differences in intraoperative nociception, incision size and operative time between midline (OVE m) and flank ovariectomy (OVE f) in feral or stray cats. Methods Two groups of animals, the OVE m group (n = 19) and the OVE f group (n = 19), were evaluated at six intraoperative time points. Cats assigned to both groups were premedicated with dexmedetomidine (20 μg/kg IM) and methadone (0.2 mg/kg IM). General anaesthesia was induced with intravenous propofol to effect and maintained with isoflurane in 100% oxygen. The data collected included heart rate, non-invasive systolic and median blood pressure, respiratory rate, weight, body condition score, surgical time, incision size and rescue analgesia. Results Significant differences were observed between surgical approaches, with larger incision size ( P <0.001) and longer surgery time ( P = 0.04) in the OVE m group. No significant differences between surgical approaches were detected regarding intraoperative nociception ( P >0.05). Conclusions and relevance Based on intraoperative nociception, there is no strong reason to advocate a preferred surgical approach for feline OVE in sterilisation programmes; however, considering surgery time and incision size, the OVE f approach may contribute to the sterilisation of more animals and reduce the risk of wound dehiscence as it allows for smaller incisions to be made in animals where postoperative wound control is difficult or impossible.
Window entrapment trauma in cats: clinical, neurological and clinicopathological findings and outcome (70 cases)
Authors: Graciolli Tomazi Fabiana , Stein Veronika M , Hauer Julia , Peters Laureen M , Steffen Frank , Farra Dima , Vidondo Beatriz , Maiolini Arianna 
Published: December 2024

Objectives Window entrapment in cats can lead to reduced blood flow to the spinal cord, muscles and nerves, resulting in ischaemic neuromyelomyopathy. The severity and duration of entrapment greatly influence clinical and neurological outcomes, as well as prognosis. The aim of the present retrospective multicentric study (2005–2022) was to describe clinical, neurological and selected clinicopathological findings, as well as the outcome of cats trapped in bottom-hung windows, presented to both first-opinion and referral-only clinics. Methods The study included cats with detailed clinical and neurological evaluations at admission, along with at least one of the following biochemical parameters: creatine kinase (CK), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities, urea and/or creatinine. Clinical and neurological parameters evaluated in the study included rectal temperature, femoral pulse, gait, urinary bladder function, tail function and survival to discharge. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for survival and each clinical, neurological and biochemical variable. Results Of the 70 cats that met the inclusion criteria, only seven (10%) died or were euthanased during hospitalisation. Nevertheless, with the available data, we found evidence of an association between clinical and neurological status and survival, with tail function being the strongest association. Cats lacking tail sensation, motor function and/or tonus were more likely to die than cats with normal tail function or only mild abnormalities (OR = 24). Similarly, cats with severe hypothermia or an absent femoral pulse were less likely to survive (OR = 12.75 and 7.5, respectively). In this sample (with a relatively low number of deaths), we did not find evidence of an association between CK, AST and ALT activity with survival. However, the only two cats with severe increases in creatinine died. Conclusions and relevance Assessment of gait, urinary bladder function, femoral pulse, rectal temperature and particularly tail function is promising for predicting outcomes in cats with window entrapment trauma.
Quality and readability of online information on Keratoconus in Portugal and Brazil
Authors: Costa Celso , Oliveira Renato Souza , Gil João , Costa Esmeralda , Tavares Cristina , Rosa Andreia , Quadrado Maria João , Murta Joaquim 
Published: December 2024

Introduction Keratoconus patients turn to the internet for answers to their disease expectations. Webpages are not filtered or submitted to evaluation before getting published. We aim to evaluate the quality and readability of the online information regarding keratoconus in Portugal and Brazil. Methods Two independent ophthalmologists and one ophthalmologist supervisor evaluated 30 Portuguese and 30 Brazilian websites by order of appearance in Google with the word “Queratocone” and “Ceratocone”, respectively. Two quality scores were used: a quality index of consumer health information (DISCERN) and the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark. Readability was evaluated with 3 scores: FleschKincaid Reading Ease (FRE), FleschKincaid Grade (FKG) and Automated Readability Index (ARI). Results Sites from private hospitals or clinics were the most prevalent in both countries, followed by health platform sites. Final JAMA benchmark was 1.13 ± 1.18 in Portugal and 1.07 ± 1.00 in Brazil. Final DISCERN was 34.07 ± 11.71 in Portugal and 38.17 ± 10.51 in Brazil. FRE and FKG scores denoted “difficult to read” and “college school level” in both countries; ARI denoted “professor” level in Portugal and “college student” level in Brazil needed to understand the text, a statistically significant difference. There was no correlation between Google ranking and quality and readability scores. Discussion and Conclusions The information on keratoconus available online to Portuguese-speaking patients is of poor quality and difficult to interpret. Ophthalmologists have a shared responsibility to tackle this challenge through multifold efforts. Educating our patients on how to find reputable websites can help them navigate their life with keratoconus.
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome in pregnancy: a case series and review
Authors: Hanley Sarah , Imcha Mendinaro , Mohamad Mas Mahady 
Published: December 2024

Background Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a syndrome of cyclic nausea and vomiting in the setting of chronic cannabis use. To date, only 11 cases of CHS in pregnancy have been reported. Case presentation We describe two cases of uncontrolled vomiting in pregnancy due to CHS. Case 1 represents a 30-year-old Caucasian woman presenting in the 5th week of gestation with nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain intermittently of 1 week duration. Physical work-up was normal, and symptoms resolved with supportive treatment within 3 days, only to occur again at the 14th week of gestation, and again at the 30th week of gestation. Link between symptom relief and hot bathing led to suspicion for CHS, confirmed with positive cannabis urine toxicology screening. Nausea, vomiting and pain subsided with cannabis cessation, and baby was born healthy at 38 + 5 weeks gestation. Case 2 describes a 28-year-old Caucasian woman presenting in the 16th week of gestation with nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Physical examination was normal, and symptoms self-resolved. Two weeks later, in the 18th week of gestation, the patient re-presented to the emergency room with sudden re-occurrence of nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Once again, a link between symptom relief and hot bathing was noted on admission. The patient was educated on possible links of chronic cannabis use with CHS symptoms and subsequently relayed extensive (>14 years) cannabis use history. Symptoms resolved with cannabis cessation. Baby was born at 37 weeks gestation, with low birth weight of 2180 g requiring 5 days neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) treatment. Regular follow-up up to 5 months post-partum confirmed no CHS relapse with cannabis cessation. Conclusion CHS in pregnancy is likely under-reported, reflective possibly of limited physician and patient awareness of this condition, as well as patient concealment of cannabis use in pregnancy. In cases of severe, cyclic nausea and vomiting in pregnancy unresponsive to typical anti-emetic treatment, comprehensive social history including cannabis use should be sought, and associated hot bathing for symptomatic relief out-ruled.
Predictive factors for complete pathologic response in luminal breast cancer: impact of ki67 and HER2 low expression
Authors: Miras Isabel , Gil Ana , Benavent Marta , Castilla María Ángeles , Vieites Begoña , Dominguez-Cejudo María Ángeles , Molina-Pinelo Sonia , Alfaro Lina , Frutos Javier , Ruiz-Borrego Manuel , Falcón Alejandro , Cejuela Mónica , Salvador-Bofill Javier 
Published: December 2024

Background: Complete pathological response to neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) in breast cancer is associated with prolonged survival. Compared to other breast cancer immunophenotypes, luminal tumors are the least chemosensitive with low rates of pathological response within this molecular subtype. Thus, finding predictors of response in this subset remains challenging. The emerging concept of low human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression has led to a repurpose of the current prognostic system. Little is known about its correlation with response to NAT. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate predictors of response in early-stage luminal breast cancer receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Design: A total of 252 luminal patients who received NAT were retrospectively assessed in this cohort study. Methods: We analyzed the correlation of ki67 and HER2 low expression with the rate of pathologic response. Using ki67 as a continuous variable and applying the receiver operating characteristic curves method. Results: We identified that in patients with a ki67 expression level >37%, the probability of having a complete pathological response was 4.80 times higher (odds ratio = 4.80, 95% confidence interval: 1.92–12.04). In Her2-low breast cancer patients, Her2 expression did not correlate with a better response rate. Conclusion: In our study, a ki67 expression value greater than 37% constitutes a predictive biomarker of pathological complete response in the subgroup of patients with luminal B tumors and could be considered, therefore, an indicator for treatment decisions in this subgroup.
Mr Bates and the post office: The implications of the UK post office scandal for the taxonomy of trauma
Authors: Deahl Martin , Foster Paul 
Published: December 2024

Objective To explore the psychopathology of the victims of the UK Post Office scandal and the extent to which this can be adequately described by current classification of traumatic stress symptoms. Design Standard clinical interviews for the purposes of preparing medico-legal reports. Setting Face to face and virtual interviews. Participants Victims of the Post Office Scandal, postmaster's and postmistress's wrongly accused of theft. Main outcome measures ICD-10 diagnostic criteria. Results All the subjects had experienced life changing traumatic reactions which were inadequately captured by current diagnostic criteria. Conclusions The current taxonomy of trauma fails to capture the diversity of symptoms experienced by the postmasters and we argue that a formulation based approach should be employed, especially in the court room. There remains inadequate research exploring the impact of wrongful conviction on the mental state of victims.
Evaluation of Three Fixation Methods in Tibiotalocalcaneal Fusion for Chronic Osteomyelitis Following Ankle Fracture
Authors: Gaitan Laura C. , Gonzalez Emanuel , Randolino Juan Pablo , López Valeria , Slullitel Gastón 
Published: December 2024

Category: Ankle; Other Introduction/Purpose: In the context of chronic osteomyelitis following an ankle fracture, limb salvage through treatment—ideally including infection eradication—can be an alternative to amputation. Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis is perhaps the most popular procedure, widely familiar among surgeons. When performing fusion in osteomyelitis patients, external fixation is more commonly used, although there is some experience with internal fixation systems. In this study, we conducted a retrospective evaluation of three groups of consecutively treated patients undergoing tibiotalocalcaneal fusion using either circular or monoplanar external fixation or an endomedullary nail coated with antibiotic-loaded cement. Our objective was to assess the success of each procedure in terms of consolidation, infection remission, and improvement in the quality of life. Methods: A multicenter, retrospective, descriptive study of 17 patients treated with tibiotalocalcaneal fusion, divided into three groups based on the treatment performed: Group A used a retrograde endomedullary nail coated with Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) with antibiotic, Group B used a monoplanar LRS (Limb Reconstruction System) external fixator, and Group C used a circular external fixator; all with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Quality and the percentage of consolidation were evaluated through tomography. Additionally, the SF-12 form was administered to assess the quality of life at the last follow-up visit. Results: 17 patients were evaluated. Group A: 6 patients stabilized with a coated nail. Average tibiotalar and subtalar consolidation rates were 66.24% and 67.06%. One patient did not achieve infection healing. SF-12 scores averaged 40 for physical and 48.13 for mental. Group B: 5 patients with an LRS fixator; 3 active smokers. Average tibiotalar and subtalar consolidation rates were 52.78% and 62.3%, respectively. All patients achieved infection remission. SF-12 scores averaged 46.7 for physical and 51.3 for mental. Group C: 6 patients stabilized with a circular external fixator; 1 diabetic and 3 were smokers. Average tibiotalar and subtalar consolidation rates were 65.9% and 65.7%. Half experienced infection recurrence. SF-12 scores averaged 36.7 for physical and 47.8 for mental. Conclusion: Patients with retrograde nails coated with PMMA and antibiotics exhibit higher consolidation rates than the rest; however, patients with circular external fixation had a higher infection recurrence rate. Establishing generalizable treatment algorithms for these patients remains challenging, but our data suggest a favorable trend toward the use of internal endomedullary fixation coated with PMMA.
Tin contamination in sediments of Lake Zurich: source, spread, history and risk assessment
Authors: Roethlin Remo L. , Meister Aurélia C. E. , Gilli Adrian , Lennartz Sinikka T. , Amsler Helen Eri , Dittrich Maria , Wehrli Bernhard , Schönbächler Maria , Dubois Nathalie 
Published: December 2024

AbstractIndustrial activities of a silk dyeing factory in Thalwil, on the shore of Lake Zurich, Switzerland, caused extreme Sn contamination of lake sediments. In this study, we determine the contamination source, spread, and age using a multiproxy approach. We used X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) core scanning and further geochemical analyses to assess the contamination spreading and thickness in the sedimentary column. We found elevated Sn levels throughout sediments of Lake Zurich, ranging from 177 $$\hbox {g} \,\hbox {kg}^{-1}$$

g

kg

-
1

in front of the former silk factory to 0.05 $$\hbox {g} \,\hbox {kg}^{-1}$$

g

kg

-
1

at the southeast end (background: ca. 0.006 $$\hbox {g}\, \hbox {kg}^{-1}$$

g

kg

-
1

). The rapid concentration drop away from the shore suggests quick precipitation of a sparingly soluble inorganic Sn compound, which is confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscope Imaging in tandem with Energy-dispersive XRF spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) data. The Sn XRF profile of a varved core indicates a contamination onset in the early 1890s, a maximum around 1900, and a gradual decrease to low levels in the 1940s. High Sn concentrations in turbidite layers from the deep basin indicate that mass movements physically remobilised Sn. However, in stable conditions, in-situ porewater measurements (conc. < 0.5 $$\upmu \hbox {g}\, \hbox {L}^{-1}$$

μ
g

L

-
1

) using dialyse plates show little Sn remobilisation into the lake water (0.05 $$\hbox {mg} \,\hbox {a}^{-1} \,\hbox {m}^{-2}$$

mg

a

-
1

m

-
2

). The low remobilisation, reducing conditions, and high sulphide contents in the contaminated layers suggest that Sn is firmly bound to the sediments. Combined with the low toxicity of Sn, we conclude that the Sn contamination poses no threat to lake biota or drinking water production.
Doublecortin regulates the mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis in glioma via Rho-A/Net-1/p38-MAPK signaling
Authors: Nadeem Iqra , Han Zhou , Xiaoliang Hong , Adzraku Seyram Yao , Kambey Piniel Alphayo , Kanwore Kouminin , Peipei Mu , Adekunle Adebayo Oluwafemi , Adu-Amankwaah Joseph , Ayanlaja Abiola Abdulrahman , Zheng Yi , Dianshuai Gao , Liu Xiaomei , Song Yuanjian 
Published: December 2024

AbstractDoublecortin (DCX) is a microtubule-associated protein known to be a key regulator of neuronal migration and differentiation during brain development. However, the role of DCX, particularly in regulating the survival and growth of glioma cells, remains unclear. In this study, we utilized CRISPR/Cas9 technology to knock down DCX in the human glioma cell line (U251). DCX depletion suppressed cell proliferation and enhanced the pro-apoptotic effects of temozolomide (TMZ) and γ-radiation treatment. DCX knockdown led to the translocation of Bax to the mitochondria and mitochondria dysfunction. Furthermore, DCX deficiency-induced apoptosis took place along with the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which is crucial in triggering mitochondrial membrane depolarization, the release of cytochrome c (Cyt-c), and caspase activation. Importantly, the transcriptional inhibition of DCX downregulated Rho-A, Net-1, and activated p38-MAPK cue, critical for cell survival and proliferation. Subsequent treatment with TMZ and γ-radiation further increased p38-MAPK activity through the decreased expression of Rho-A/Net-1, resulting in a significant reduction in glioma cell migration and invasion. Additionally, intracranial xenograft tumors of DCX-modified U251 cells in nude mice demonstrated inhibited tumor growth. Tumor sections treated with TMZ and γ-radiation exhibited a higher number of TUNEL-positive cells compared to the control group, indicating increased apoptosis. Our finding suggests that DCX depletion reduces glioma cell proliferation and promotes mitochondria-dependent apoptosis by enhancing the chemo and radiotherapy response. Targeting DCX represents a potential therapeutic target for glioma treatment.