bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Crystalline phases induced in amorphous TiO2 matrix by crown ethers
Authors: Aragon Patricia Vergara , Flores Miriam Estrada , Fonseca Monica Rosalia Jaime 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

An amorphous titania matrix was synthesized using a Sol-gel method at room temperature. A slight crystallization, without a previous calcination process, was produced by adding the crown ethers 12C4, 15C5, and 18C6 during the synthesis of the amorphous TiO2. The presence of anatase and rutile nanocrystals was detected by high-resolution transmission electron (HRTEM) microscopy and infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The objective of the present work is to study the crystallization effect of the amorphous TiO2 synthesized by the sol-gel method by adding three crown ethers: 12C4, 15C5, and 18C6. Crystallization was detected and analyzed by IR, UV-Vis, and HRTEM. In all samples containing crown ethers, a slight crystallization without heat treatments was detected. The importance of this method of nanoparticle synthesis using crown ether, lies in the one-step synthesis of crystalline samples by sol-gel method without any additional treatments, and its potential use as an antibacterial agent, and multiple uses in the medical area, especially as a drug carrier encapsulated dopamine 15C5 may be used as a longer alternative treatment for patients with depression or Parkinson's disease. The characteristics of 15C5 crown ethers (e.g., their flexible and twisted geometry) probably affect its complexation ratio. In the area of ​​materials science, excellent interactions would be achieved between the synthesized material and the functionalized agents, giving rise to countless applications as batteries, solar cells, adsorbent materials, capacitors and catalysts.
An observational study of pleiotropy and penetrance of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis associated with CAG-repeat expansion of ATXN2
Authors: Cooper-Knock Johnathan , Demaegd Koen , Kernan Aoife , Vugt Joke van , Harvey Calum , Moll Tobias , O'Brien David , Gornall Sarah , Drury Luke , Farhan Sali , Dion Patrick , Rouleau Guy , Western Andrea , Parsons Paul , Mclean Benjamin , Benatar Michael , Berg Leonard van den , Damme Philip Van , Dankbaar Jan Willem , Hendrikse Jeroen , Koole Wouter , de Bie Charlotte , Hobson Esther , Veldink Jan , de Warenburg Bart van , Pasterkamp R Jeroen , Rheenen Wouter van , Kirby Janine , Shaw Pamela , Es Michael van 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are both associated with a CAG-repeat expansion in ATXN2 and with TDP-43-positive neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions. The two disorders have been viewed as distinct entities, where an intermediate length expansion of 31–33 CAG-repeats is associated with sporadic ALS and a full length expansion of ≧ 34 CAG-repeats is associated with SCA2. We report the clinical phenotype of ATXN2-positive patients and their relatives, identified in three specialist ALS clinics, which force a reconsideration of this dichotomy. We also report the frequency of ATXN2 expansions in two large cohorts of ALS patients and in a population-matched cohort of controls. We report ten cases of familial ALS in which disease is associated with either an intermediate or a full-length ATXN2 CAG-repeat expansion. Pedigrees and patients feature additional phenotypes including parkinsonism, dementia and essential tremor (ET). We conclude that CAG-repeat expansions in ATXN2 exhibit pleiotropy and are associated with a disease spectrum that includes ALS, SCA2, and parkinsonism; to recognise this complexity we propose the new term ‘ATXN2 spectrum disorder’. We also observed sporadic ALS associated with full-length expansions. We conclude that ATXN2 CAG-repeat expansions, irrespective of length, should be considered a risk factor for both familial and sporadic ALS. Interrupted CAG-repeats were not perfectly aligned with an ALS phenotype in our data. Our findings have relevance for researchers, patients and families linked to CAG-repeat expansions in ATXN2.
A comparison of short-term outcomes of total laparoscopic, laparoscopic-assisted, and open total gastrectomies for patients with advanced gastric cancer after neoadjuvant chemotherapy: a multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gao Xiaopeng , Yuan Jia , Li Ziyang , Mei Xianghuang , Huang Guoqiang , Ji Gang , Liu Gang , Guo Xin , Song Yanyang , Wei Jiangpeng 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
To evaluate the short-term safety and efficacy of total laparoscopic, laparoscopic-assisted, and open total gastrectomies for patients with gastric cancer after neoadjuvant therapy.
Methods
This multicenter retrospective cohort study was conducted to collect clinical data from 289 patients who underwent total radical gastrectomy after neoadjuvant therapy at six centers. The patients were divided into three groups according to the surgical method they received: total laparoscopic, laparoscopic-assisted, and open groups. The general baseline data, intraoperative and postoperative conditions, postoperative histopathological results, and related complications of the three groups were compared.
Results
The total laparoscopic group had a longer operation time and more intraoperative blood loss than the laparoscopic-assisted and open groups. However, the first postoperative bowel movement, first postoperative defecation, first postoperative meal, and removal of the postoperative drainage tube occurred earlier, and the total number of lymph node dissections was higher in total laparoscopic group. The intraoperative blood transfusion rate, postoperative intensive care unit admission rate, maximum tumor diameter, positive lymph node dissection number, TNM staging, and hospitalization time did not differ significantly among the three groups, nor did the total incidence of postoperative complications, Clavien-Dindo classification, and 30- and 90-day readmission rates (all p > 0.05).
Conclusion
For patients with gastric cancer treated with neoadjuvant therapy, there is no significant difference in overall safety and short-term effectiveness among the three surgical methods employed. Although total laparoscopic total gastrectomy has a longer operation time, it has the advantages of faster postoperative recovery and earlier food intake.
Frailty Indices in Genitourinary Prosthetic Surgeries: An ACS-NSQIP Cohort Analysis
Authors: Ghaffar Umar , Abbasi Behzad , Hakam Nizar , Fernandez Adrian , Carlisle Marvin , Pearce Robert , Patel Hiren , Li Kevin , Venishetty Nikit , Breyer Benjamin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives To evaluate the association between frailty and surgical outcomes using frailty indices and to assess tool performance. Genitourinary prosthetics, including artificial urinary sphincter (AUS), urethral sling, and penile prosthesis, are standard therapeutic interventions but are susceptible to complications. These procedures are often performed on older, frail patients, necessitating a deeper understanding of the relationship between frailty and postoperative morbidity Methods We utilized data from the NSQIP database (2011-2020) to identify patients undergoing urologic prosthetic procedures, including artificial urinary sphincter, sling, and penile prosthesis. Frailty was assessed using the modified frailty index-5 (mFI-5), the Risk Analysis Index (RAI-A) and ASA Class. Primary outcomes focused on 30-day postoperative morbidity, with secondary outcomes including mortality, length of stay, discharge disposition, readmissions, and reoperations. Logistic and linear regression models were constructed, adjusting for relevant clinical variables, and ROC curve plotted to compare the predictive abilities of mFI-5, RAI-A, and ASA classification.
Results We identified 4,734 patients who underwent AUS, sling, or penile prosthesis surgeries. Frailty, as measured by RAI-A (OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.59-2.65, p<0.001) and ASA Class (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.19-2.01, p=0.001), was significantly associated with postoperative morbidity, while mFI-5 was not. Cardiovascular complications and discharge to continued care were associated with all tools. ROC curve analysis showed that RAI-A had significantly greater predictive ability for postoperative morbidity than mFI-5 (p=0.023).
Conclusions RAI-A and ASA are more effective than the mFI-5 in predicting postoperative morbidity, mortality, and other adverse outcomes in patients undergoing urologic prosthetic surgeries.
Factors Associated with Clinically Significant Extrinsic Compression on Gastroduodenal Endoscopy
Authors: Yoon Jin Young , Bae Jin Kyung , Park Su Bee , Park Jae Jun , Jeon Jung Won , Cha Jae Myung 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Although clinicians frequently encounter incidentally detected gastroduodenal extrinsic compressive lesion (GDECL) on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGE), optimal management approach for GDECL has not been fully established. This study aimed to stratify and identify important factors associated with clinically significant GDECLs that require regular follow-up or further treatment.
Methods
Between June 2011 and December 2015, a total of 73 patients with suspected GDECL on UGE at Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong were identified and studied retrospectively. After the final diagnosis, patients were divided into the following two groups: clinically significant GDECL, which requires regular follow-up or further treatment, and clinically non-significant GDECL.
Results
Among 73 GDECLs, 23 (31.5%) lesions were classified as clinically significant GDECLs and 50 (68.5%) as clinically non-significant GDECLs. Clinical and endoscopic parameters that were associated with clinically significant GDECLs included older age (≥ 60 years) (odds ratio [OR] = 7.73, p < 0.05), large size (≥ 4 cm) of extrinsic compression (OR = 7.77, p < 0.05), previous history of intra-abdominal malignancy (OR = 17.55, p < 0.05), and symptoms of abdominal distension (OR = 51.34, p < 0.05).
Conclusions
Several clinical and endoscopic parameters showed significant association with the development of clinically significant GDECLs on endoscopy. These predictive factors might be useful in determining whether to perform further diagnostic work-up in patients with GDECLs.
Diagnostic performance of serum mac-2-binding protein glycosylation isomer as a fibrosis biomarker in non-obese and obese patients with MASLD
Authors: Ananchuensook Prooksa , Moonlisarn Kamonchanok , Boonkaew Bootsakorn , Bunchorntavakul Chalermarat , Tangkijvanich Pisit 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Aim
Serum mac-2-binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) is a new biomarker for liver fibrosis. However, its performance in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), particularly in obese patients, remains to be explored.
Methods
This study evaluated the role of M2BPGi in predicting liver fibrosis in 205 patients with MASLD using magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) as a reference. The performance of M2BPGi was compared to vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE), FIB-4, APRI, and NFS. The PNPLA3, TM6SF2, and HSD17B13 polymorphisms were assessed by allelic discrimination assays.
Results
The area under the ROC curves for VCTE, M2BPGi FIB-4, APRI, and NFS in differentiating significant fibrosis were 0.95 (95% CI; 0.91–0.98), 0.85 (0.79–0.92), 0.81 (0.74–0.89), 0.79 (0.71–0.87) and 0.80 (0.72–0.87) (all P < 0.001), respectively. The optimal cut-off values of M2BPGi in predicting significant fibrosis, advanced fibrosis, and cirrhosis were 0.82, 0.95, and 1.23 cut-off index (COI), yielding satisfactory sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy. The performance of M2BPGi was consistent among subgroups according to BMI, while the AUROCs of FIB-4, APRI, and NFS were remarkably declined in patients with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2. Patients with the PNPLA3 GG genotype had significantly higher M2BPGi than those with the CC/CG genotypes. In multivariate analysis, the independent factors associated with significant liver fibrosis were VCTE, M2BPGi, and PNPLA3 rs738409.
Conclusion
Our data demonstrated that serum M2BPGi accurately assessed liver fibrosis across different BMI, indicating that this biomarker could apply to non-obese and obese patients with MASLD in clinical settings.
High Resolution Reverse-Offset Printed Wearable Textile Capacitive Sensor for Continuous Monitoring of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Dai Huanghao , Todorov Alexandar R. , Yong Sheng , Torah Russel , Ardern-Jones Michael , Beeby Steve 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Reverse-offset printing (ROP) is an emerging approach for achieving microscale patterns, particularly in the development of electronic devices on flexible substrates, such as interdigital capacitive (IDC) sensors. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent inflammatory skin condition affecting millions globally, with prevalence rates ranging from 15–30% in children and 2–10% in adults. It leads to significant skin dryness and irritation, making effective diagnosis and treatment crucial. Accurate monitoring can help optimize clinical management and improve patient outcomes. IDC sensors fabricated on textiles offer a promising solution for comfortable user-friendly continuous monitoring and quantification of AD. A key requirement for this application is controlling the depth of the electromagnetic field produced by the sensor, defined by the IDC electrode gaps, to be the most sensitive to the stratum corneum (SC) layer of the skin. IDC gaps of 30 to 50 µm would result in a field depth within the SC but these small gaps are difficult to achieve using standard screen-printing techniques. Using COMSOL Multiphysics 6.1 and reverse-offset printing (ROP) techniques, this paper examines how variations in feature sizes and encapsulation layer thicknesses impact the sensor’s performance. The simulations modelled the electric field distribution and capacitance changes in response to different skin hydration levels, represented by varying the relative permittivity of the SC layer, and the influence of the encapsulation layer. Simulation results have been validated by IDC sensors fabricated with a range of feature sizes and encapsulation layer thicknesses. The results indicated that encapsulation layers with thickness below 10 µm for a sensor with finger width and finger gap of 50 µm improves the reliability and consistency of the sensor’s performance and minimises the reduction in monitoring sensitivity. This study highlights the critical balance between encapsulation thickness and sensor performance, offering valuable insights for the design of reliable and effective IDC sensors for skin hydration monitoring. The findings pave the way for further advancements in wearable skin sensors, enhancing their application in personalized healthcare and dermatological diagnostics.
Development of an Automated Method for In-House Production of Sodium 18F-fluoride for Injection: Process Validation as a Step Toward Routine Clinical Application
Authors: Lazareva Marija Atanasova , Chochevska Maja , Kolevska Katerina , Velickovska Maja , Jolevski Filip , Apostolova Paulina , Ugrinska Ana , Janevik-Ivanovska Emilija 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Sodium 18F-fluoride for injection can be easily cyclotron-produced and purified, as a simple inorganic salt, by adsorption/desorption onto an anion-exchange cartridge and then dispensed for clinical use. Since the clinical demand for this radiopharmaceutical is constantly increasing, this study aimed to design and develop a simple, fully automated method for the in-house, rapid, and efficient processing and dispensing of injectable solutions of Sodium 18F-fluoride without the need of a synthesis module and disposable kit, but using only the dispensing unit.
Results
A new simple method for the efficient routine production of injectable solutions of [18F]NaF was developed through a straightforward modification of the commercial dispenser Clio (Comecer S.p.A., Italy) and without the need of a synthesis module. The full production, processing and dispensing of [18F]NaF were entirely carried out on the same batch using only the dispensing module. Process validation was carried according to GMP guidelines to ensure consistency of [18F]NaF quality with international standards. The final radiopharmaceutical met all quality criteria specified by Ph. Eur. and chemical, radionuclidic and radiochemical impurities were significantly below the required limits..
Conclusion
A new simple and reliable procedure developed for the preparation and dispensing of injectable [18F]NaF in less than 10 minutes with a radiochemical yield > 97% (decay corrected) has been successfully developed. Notably, the proposed method also allows the preparation of [18F]NaF using the residual fluorine-18 activity remaining after a [18F]FDG production run, thus making it immediately accessible to patients for further PET imaging investigations.
Kew words:
GMP Production, [18F]NaF, cost-effective method, residual activity, validation.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Tracheal Aspirate and Serum Procalcitonin Level in Critically Ill Pediatric Patients with Ventilated Associated Pneumonia
Authors: Rezk ahmed R , ibrahim hanan m , Tarek mennat allah , magdy sondos 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a frequent nosocomial infection with high mortality and morbidity among critically ill patients. Its diagnosis remains challenging due to the limited reliability of clinical assessments. VAP is suspected in cases of new or progressive pulmonary infiltrates with clinical signs of infection and is confirmed through pathogen identification in lower respiratory tract samples. The utility of procalcitonin (PCT) as a biomarker for VAP diagnosis remains unclear. This study investigates the role of tracheal aspirate procalcitonin in early diagnosis and prediction of VAP.Results: A prospective cohort study was conducted on 50 ventilated pediatric patients in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit over six months (June–December 2023). Participants (26 females, 24 males; median age: 1.75 years) were divided into VAP and non-VAP groups. PCT levels were measured on day zero and day three of ventilation.In the VAP group, median PCT levels on day three were significantly higher (574.9 ng/mL, IQR: 362–719) than in the non-VAP group (280 ng/mL, IQR: 192.9–555) (p = 0.026), highlighting PCT’s potential as a diagnostic biomarker for VAP. Comparisons of PCT levels in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and serum samples in the VAP group showed no statistically significant difference (median BAL: 2500 ng/mL, IQR: 1231–2500; median serum: 2161 ng/mL, IQR: 1084–2500; p = 0.778).Mortality analysis revealed significantly higher PCT levels on day three in patients who died (574.9 ng/mL, IQR: 353.6–792) compared to those discharged (248.2 ng/mL, IQR: 189.7–453.4) (p = 0.003), suggesting a strong association between elevated PCT levels and mortality risk.Conclusion: Day three PCT levels demonstrated high diagnostic performance in distinguishing VAP from non-VAP cases. Both BAL and serum PCT levels were equally reliable in confirming VAP, showing excellent sensitivity and specificity. Elevated PCT levels were also strongly associated with increased mortality.
Assessing the Efficacy of Wildlife Underpasses in Mitigating Amphibian Road Mortality: A Case Study from the Northeastern United States
Authors: Marcelino Matthew R. , Parren Steve G. , Mosher Brittany A. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Roads pose significant threats to wildlife populations worldwide, leading to habitat fragmentation and high mortality rates among various species. Mitigation strategies such as wildlife underpasses have been implemented to alleviate these impacts, yet few studies have assessed their effectiveness before and after implementation. We conducted a case study in the northeastern United States to evaluate the efficacy of a wildlife underpass complex in mitigating amphibian road mortality. The study area encompassed a 1.3 km stretch of road, where two underpasses were constructed to facilitate amphibian passage. Through a comprehensive survey spanning five years pre-construction and seven years post-construction, we collected data on amphibian mortality and environmental factors. Linear mixed-effects models were used to assess changes in mortality rates before and after underpass construction using a before-after control-impact design. Our findings indicate a substantial reduction in mortality across the entire amphibian community and for non-arboreal amphibians within treatment areas post-construction. While arboreal amphibian mortality decreased, the difference was not statistically significant. The underpasses effectively facilitated amphibian movement, with observed usage by various species, including arboreal individuals. Overall, our study provides empirical evidence of the effectiveness of wildlife underpasses in reducing amphibian road mortality, highlighting them as a potentially important conservation action. These findings underscore the significance of incorporating underpass structures into transportation planning and infrastructure development to mitigate negative impacts on wildlife populations. Moreover, our study contributes valuable insights for future research and informs policy initiatives aimed at enhancing habitat connectivity and safeguarding vulnerable amphibian populations in environments bisected by roadways.
Radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy for severe spasticity in patients with severe mental and physical disabilities
Authors: Sakai Tomoko , Hirao Masanobu , Takashina Yusuke , Yamamoto Akiko , Oishi Tsutomu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Patients with severe motor and intellectual disability (SMID) experience persistent spastic pain and severe malpositioning of the limbs, exacerbated by the lack of effective treatment for severe spasticity. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) for spasticity in these patients. rESWT was applied to the biceps brachii at the elbow joint with flexion pattern spasticity of Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) grade 1 + or greater. The MAS score and elbow joint range of motion (EROM) were monitored for up to 10 weeks. Electromyography signals at rest were recorded on eight elbow joints. Adverse events were also recorded. Following a single rESWT session, the spasticity of the elbow joint immediately decreased, MAS score significantly decreased by 1.0° ± 0.1, and EROM significantly increased by 9.1° ± 2.5°. Muscle activity decreased by an average of 32 ± 5%. rESWT resulted in an immediate and clear improvement in the MAS score for approximately 8 weeks and in the EROM continuing even at 10 weeks. Our findings highlight rESWT as a non-invasive therapy for spasticity in patients with SMID.