bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of diabetes mellitus among 80,193 gastrointestinal cancer patients in five European and three Asian countries
Authors: Roderburg Christoph , Loosen Sven H. , Hoyer Laura , Luedde Tom , Kostev Karel 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background
Diabetes mellitus (DM) has recently been associated with an increased incidence of such digestive tract malignancies as gastric or colorectal cancer. However, systematic data on the prevalence of DM among digestive tract cancer entities, especially in terms of geographic distributions, are lacking.

Methods
We used the Oncology Dynamics database (IQVIA) to identify a total of 80,193 patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancer (5845 esophagus, 20,806 stomach, 38,138 colon, and 15,414 rectum cancer patients) from eight European and Asian countries.

Results
The overall prevalence of DM among all digestive tract cancer patients was 14.8% (11,866/80,193). In terms of cancer site, DM prevalence was highest in patients with colon (15.5%) or rectal (15.3%) cancer and lowest in patients with esophageal cancer (12.0%). Interestingly, we observed significant differences in DM prevalence between countries. Spain (27.8%, 31.3%) and South Korea (21.0%, 27.9%) had the highest prevalence of DM among gastric and colon cancer patients, while DM prevalence in esophageal (18.8%) and rectal (38.0%) cancer patients was highest in Germany.

Conclusion
Our data revealed a high prevalence of DM among digestive tract cancer patients in Europe and Asia, and showed that DM prevalence varies among digestive tract cancer sites as well as countries.
Low blood levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol are positively associated with cancer
Authors: Loosen Sven H. , Kostev Karel , Luedde Mark , Luedde Tom , Roderburg Christoph 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Purpose
There is a growing body of evidence suggesting a decisive involvement of the human lipid metabolism in cancer development. However, clinical data on the association between blood triglyceride or cholesterol levels including the cholesterol transporters high-density and low-density lipoproteins (LDL, HDL) and cancer incidence have remained inconclusive. Here, we investigated the association between blood triglyceride as well as total, LDL and HDL cholesterol levels and cancer among outpatients from Germany.

Methods
61,936 patients with available blood lipid values were identified from the IQVIA Disease Analyzer database and followed up between 2005 and 2019. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to study the association between lipid values and cancer.

Results
The probability of cancer was significantly lower among patients with elevated total cholesterol concentrations and higher in patients with decreased HDL serum levels. In contrast, serum concentrations of LDL and triglycerides had no impact on cancer risk. In cancer site-stratified analyses, we observed a trend towards higher rates of cancers from digestive organs, breast, skin cancer, urinary tract and cancers from lymphoid and hematopoietic tissue in patients with HDL values < 35 mg/dl, while a negative association between total cholesterol > 250 mg/dl and respiratory organ as well as urinary tract cancers was observed.

Conclusion
Our data strongly support the hypothesis that serum-specific lipid profiles are positively associated with cancer.
A simplified fluid structure interaction model for the assessment of ship hard grounding
Authors: Kim Sang Jin , Sohn Jung Min , Kujala Pentti , Hirdaris Spyros 
Published: December 2021

AbstractThe structural damage of ships in navigational accidents is influenced by the hydrodynamic properties of surrounding water. Fluid structure interactions (FSI) in way of grounding contact can be idealized by combining commercial FEA tools and specialized hydrodynamic solvers. Despite the efficacy of these simulations, the source codes idealizing FSI are not openly available, computationally expensive and subject to limitations in terms of physical assumptions. This paper presents a unified FSI model for the assessment of ship crashworthiness following ship hard grounding. The method uses spring elements for the idealization of hydrostatic restoring forces in 3 DoF (heave, pitch, roll) and distributes the added masses in 6 DoF on the nodal points in way of contact. Comparison of results against the method of Kim et al. (2021) for the case of a barge and a Ro–Ro passenger ship demonstrate excellent idealization of ship dynamics. It is concluded that the method could be useful for rapid assessment of ship grounding scenarios and associated regulatory developments.
Association of COVID-19 mortality with COVID-19 vaccination rates in Rhineland-Palatinate (Germany) from calendar week 1 to 20 in the year 2021: a registry-based analysis
Authors: Wollschläger Daniel , Gianicolo Emilio , Blettner Maria , Hamann Ruben , Herm-Stapelberg Nils , Schoeps Melissa 
Published: December 2021

AbstractVaccination is among the measures implemented by authorities to control the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, real-world evidence of population-level effects of vaccination campaigns against COVID-19 are required to confirm that positive results from clinical trials translate into positive public health outcomes. Since the age group 80 + years is most at risk for severe COVID-19 disease progression, this group was prioritized during vaccine rollout in Germany. Based on comprehensive vaccination data from the German federal state of Rhineland-Palatinate for calendar week 1–20 in the year 2021, we calculated sex- and age-specific vaccination coverage. Furthermore, we calculated the proportion of weekly COVID-19 fatalities and reported SARS-CoV-2 infections formed by each age group. Vaccination coverage in the age group 80 + years increased to a level of 80% (men) and 75% (women). Increasing vaccination coverage coincided with a reduction in the age group’s proportion of COVID-19 fatalities. In multivariable logistic regression, vaccination coverage was associated both with a reduction in an age-group’s proportion of COVID-19 fatalities [odds ratio (OR) per 5 percentage points = 0.89, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.82–0.96, p = 0.0013] and of reported SARS-CoV-2 infections (OR per 5 percentage points = 0.82, 95% CI 0.76–0.88, p < 0.0001). The results are consistent with a protective effect afforded by the vaccination campaign against severe COVID-19 disease in the oldest age group.
ProAna Worlds: Affectivity and Echo Chambers Online
Authors: Osler Lucy , Krueger Joel 
Published: December 2021

AbstractAnorexia Nervosa (AN) is an eating disorder characterised by self-starvation. Accounts of AN typically frame the disorder in individualistic terms: e.g., genetic predisposition, perceptual disturbances of body size and shape, experiential bodily disturbances. Without disputing the role these factors may play in developing AN, we instead draw attention to the way disordered eating practices in AN are actively supported by others. Specifically, we consider how Pro-Anorexia (ProAna) websites—which provide support and solidarity, tips, motivational content, a sense of community, and understanding to individuals with AN—help drive and maintain AN practices. We use C. Thi Nguyen’s work on epistemic “echo chambers”, along with Maria Lugones’ work on “worlds” and “ease”, to explore the dynamics of these processes. Adopting this broader temporal and intersubjective perspective, we argue, not only helps to further illuminate the experiential character of AN but also has important clinical and therapeutic significance.
Mars Explorers: A Science Inquiry-Based Learning Project in Preschool
Authors: Zudaire Isabel , Buil Raquel , Uriz Irantzu , Napal María 
Published: December 2021

AbstractInquiry-based science education has become one of the most effective methodologies to learn science; however, proposals in preschool are scarce. Different factors are responsible for this situation, such as the low self-confidence of teachers to teach science and the belief that young children are unable to develop certain reasoning skills. This study reports the implementation of an inquiry-based science project in a preschool setting, in the context of a preservice teacher’s school placement. The project aimed to promote the development of basic and integrated scientific skills, enhance acquisition of conceptual knowledge and make the students enjoy while learning science. The intervention is described thoroughly and illustrated with examples from the real implementation of the theoretical IBSE sequence. At the beginning of the proposal, the students received a hypothetical letter from the astronaut Pedro Duque, in which they were asked for help to plan his trip to living on Mars, a cold planet, with only frozen and saltwater. After some introductory POE (predict, observe, and explain) experiences on the perception of temperature and activities with fresh and saline water, the students performed a piece of research: growing lettuce in four different conditions, combining two variables: temperature and the salinity of water. As the project developed, the students progressively gave better descriptions and justifications, and also showed great interest in performing more “research experiments”. For the preservice teacher, the project provided an excellent opportunity to implement academic knowledge in school practice.
Modified transmission eigenvalues for inverse scattering in a fluid–solid interaction problem
Authors: Monk Peter , Selgas Virginia 
Published: December 2021

AbstractTarget signatures are discrete quantities computed from measured scattering data that could potentially be used to classify scatterers or give information about possible defects in the scatterer compared to an ideal object. Here, we study a class of modified interior transmission eigenvalues that are intended to provide target signatures for an inverse fluid–solid interaction problem. The modification is based on an auxiliary problem parametrized by an artificial diffusivity constant. This constant may be chosen strictly positive, or strictly negative. For both choices, we characterize the modified interior transmission eigenvalues by means of a suitable operator so that we can determine their location in the complex plane. Moreover, for the negative sign choice, we also show the existence and discreteness of these eigenvalues. Finally, no matter the choice of the sign, we analyze the approximation of the eigenvalues from far field measurements of the scattered fluid pressure and provide numerical results which show that, even with noisy data, some of the eigenvalues can be determined from far field data.
The Journey to My Student Identity: A Grounded Theory Study on Supported Education for Young Adults with Mental Health Problems
Authors: Liljeholm Ulrika , Argentzell Elisabeth , Hillborg Helene , Lövgren Veronica , Rosenberg David , Bejerholm Ulrika 
Published: December 2021

AbstractSupport for developing a work identity has been shown to be essential for the recovery process of young adults with mental health problems. Since research shows that the development of a student role during the educational years for these young adults may be interrupted, this time period may be relevant to explore in order to support career development and the critical transition to adulthood for this target group. To explore young adults’ experiences of participating in supported education that is integrated with vocational and mental health services, reflecting the process of developing a student identity while struggling with mental health problems. A grounded theory design was used. The material consists of 17 individual interviews with young adults aged 18–29 years who were receiving supported education. Young adults who study while having mental health problems encountered structural barriers and challenged engagement in education that created a gap between the students and the regular education system. Access to supported education was reported to decrease this gap and formed a bridge that to facilitate educational achievements. The achievements were related to several personal benefits that were important for the experience of meaning and identity development in the future. Supported education can contribute to enabling the development of student identity for young adults with mental health problems. This involves an engagement process and positive identity formation that may reduce stigma and is therefore important for the personal recovery process and career advancement.
Impaired metabolic effects of metformin in men with early-onset androgenic alopecia
Authors: Krysiak Robert , Kowalcze Karolina , Okopień Bogusław 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background
Early-onset androgenic alopecia is considered the phenotypic equivalent of polycystic ovary syndrome in men. The purpose of the current study was to investigate whether the presence of early-onset male-pattern baldness modulates metabolic effects of metformin.

Methods
This prospective case–control study included 2 groups of men at high risk for type 2 diabetes: 72 individuals with androgenic alopecia (group A) and 75 subjects with normal hair growth (group B). Both groups were matched for age, blood pressure, body mass index, insulin sensitivity and plasma lipids. Glycated hemoglobin, glucose, plasma lipids, indices of insulin sensitivity/resistance, sex hormones, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D were determined before and after metformin treatment (1.7 g daily).

Results
Twelve-month metformin treatment reduced fat content, waist circumference, glycated hemoglobin, glucose and triglycerides, as well as improved insulin sensitivity. Although observed in both study populations, these effects were more pronounced in group B. Moreover, metformin decreased hsCRP and bioavailable testosterone levels in group B, as well as reduced 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration in group A. Treatment-induced changes in glucose homeostasis markers correlated with the impact of metformin on hsCRP and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels.

Conclusions
Metabolic effects of metformin in males are attenuated if they have coexisting early-onset androgenic alopecia. This finding may be partially explained by differences in severity of low-grade systemic inflammation and vitamin D status. The obtained results, requiring confirmation in large prospective studies, suggest that men with early-onset male-pattern baldness benefit to a lesser degree from metformin treatment than other men at high risk for type 2 diabetes.
The Effect of Cervical Conization on Women’s’ Sexual Function and Psychological Health, A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Michaan Nadav , Loboda Noa , Ochshorn Ifat , Tzur Yossi , Cohen Aviad , Grisaru Dan , Laskov Ido 
Published: December 2021

ABSTRACTBackgroundDiagnosis of cervical dysplasia and subsequent conization of the uterine cervix might affect women’s’ sexual health.AimTo assess the effect of cervical conization on women’s sexual function and psychological wellbeing.MethodsPatients undergoing conization of the cervix were assessed before, and 6 months after conization. Assessment of sexual distress and function was done using the female sexual distress scale-revised (FSDS-r) and the female sexual function inventory (FSFI), respectively. Risk for anxiety and depression, was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).Main Outcome MeasuresFSDS-r, FSFI and HADS scores before and after conizationResultsFrom October 2018 to March 2021, 55 patients undergoing cervical conization were recruited. No significant differences were found in FSDS-r scores before and after conization. An equal number of patients indicated having sexual distress (29 patients, 53%, before and after conization, P=1.0). No significant changes were noticed on any FSDS domains or the total FSDS score before and after conization, (26.8 vs. 26.0, p=0.461). The percent of patients that indicated an overall sexual dysfunction, increased from 49 percent before conization, to 59 percent after conization, P=0.388. A high percent of patients indicated signs of anxiety on the HADS questionnaire, both before and after conization (49% and 47%, respectively). The median anxiety and depression scores did not change after conization, p=1.0.Clinical implicationsA high percent of patients undergoing conization suffer from sexual distress, sexual dysfunction and general anxiety, both before and after conization. The conization procedure itself did not seem to effect questionnaire scores.Strengths and limitationsThis was a prospective cohort, with comprehensive assessment of female sexual and psychological wellbeing after conization. Not all subjects reported sexual intercourse prior to questionnaire completion.ConclusionGynecologists should be aware of the psychological and sexual effect of the diagnosis and treatment of cervical pre-cancerous lesions, patients should be counselled accordingly.
Quantification of Tumor Blush of Highly Vascularized Tumors with Slow Feeding System: Representative Use for Giant Pituitary Adenomas
Authors: Ogawa Yoshikazu , Sato Kenichi , Endo Toshiki , Tominaga Teiji 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background Modern imaging techniques can identify adverse factors for tumor removal such as cavernous sinus invasion before surgery, but surgeries for giant pituitary adenomas often reveal discrepancies between preoperative imaging and intraoperative findings because pituitary adenomas have feeding arteries with narrow diameters. Current imaging methods are not suitable for tumors with not only large vascular beds but also slow arterial filling.
Patients and Methods This prospective study recruited 13 male subjects and 9 female subjects with giant pituitary adenomas between November 2011 and 2018. All the patients were investigated with three-dimensional magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, bone image computerized tomography (CT), and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) using a C-arm cone-beam CT scanner with a flat-panel detector and 50% diluted contrast medium. Fine angioarchitecture was evaluated and the tumor blush was quantified using newly developed region of interest (ROI) analysis to establish surgical strategies.
Results Seven patients demonstrated no or very faint tumor blushes. In these patients, feeding arteries run centripetally from the surface of the tumor. Fifteen patients showed significant tumor blushes, and the feeding arteries penetrated centrifugally from the inferoposterior pole to the upper pole of the tumor. All the patients were treated according to the angiographic information with successful hemostasis. The patients showed improvement and/or disappearance of the neurologic deficits. The faint and significant blush groups showed significant differences in intraoperative bleeding (p < 0.01) and operation time (p < 0.05).
Conclusion Specialized evaluation focused on vascularization is required for successful therapy of giant pituitary adenomas.
Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Diskectomy for Lumbar Disk Herniation: Young (Age <60 years) versus Older (Age ≥60 years) Patients
Authors: Zhong-Sheng Zhu , Rui Fang , Yan-Long Kong , Hai-Jun Xiao , Ya-Dong Zhang , Feng Xue 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background We compare the differences in the efficacy of percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic diskectomy (PTED) between the younger (age <60 years) and older (age ≥60 years) patients with lumbar disk herniation (LDH).
Methods From December 2016 to December 2017, 128 patients with symptomatic LDH underwent PTED and were followed up. Forty-four 60 years old and above, including 19 males and 25 females with an average age of 68.7 (61–82) years, were classified as the elderly age group. Eighty-four patients younger than 60 years were classified as the young age group, which included 48 males and 36 females with an average age of 44.7 (16–58) years. The visual analog scale (VAS) scores, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores, and satisfaction rates of the two groups before and after surgery were compared.
Results The operation was completed successfully in both groups. The average follow-up times of the elderly and young age groups were 18.47 ± 2.62 (12–23) and 17.90 ± 3.27 (12–23) months, respectively. One patient in the young age group had recurrence 7 months after surgery, and the symptoms were relieved after PTED was performed again. Two patients with nerve root injury after surgery in the young age group completely recovered after 2 months of conservative treatment. There were no significant surgical complications in the elderly age group. There was no significant difference in postoperative VAS, JOA, and MacNab scores between the two groups. The MacNab scores in the elderly age group were excellent for 28 patients, good for 10 patients, and fair for 6 patients; the satisfaction rate was 86.3%. In the young age group, scores were excellent for 63 patients, good for 14 patients, fair for 5 patients, and poor for 2 patients; the satisfaction rate was 91.7%.
Conclusion The clinical effectiveness of PTED for treatment of LDH in both elderly and young patients is satisfactory. Age is not a predictor of poor outcomes of PTED.
Skull Base Meningiomas: Is Surgical Resection Enough? Outcome Evaluation and Prognostic Factors Analysis in a Single-Center Cohort
Authors: Pessina Federico , Navarria Pierina , Rossini Zefferino , Clerici Elena , Fornari Maurizio , Politi Letterio S. , Scorsetti Marta , Servadei Franco 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background Surgical resection represents the mainstay of treatment in skull base meningiomas (SBMs). Considering the high recurrence rate reported, an adjuvant radiation therapy (RT) treatment should be considered. The aim of this study was to evaluate the progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and prognostic factors conditioning outcome.
Methods Patients receiving surgical resection for grade I SBMs were included. The extent of resection (EOR) was dichotomized as gross total resection (GTR) and subtotal resection (STR). RT was administered only in patients receiving STR. Clinical outcome was evaluated by brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed every 6 months for the first year and yearly thereafter.
Results From January 2000 to December 2015, 123 patients were treated. The majority were females (70.7%), with a Karnofsky Performance Score (KPS) ≥80 (95%), and symptoms at diagnosis (91%). GTR was performed in 30% of cases and STR in 70%. RT was performed in 18 (20.9%) patients at diagnosis and in 29 (33.7%) patients at progression. Improvement or stability of neurologic status was obtained in 78.9% of patients. The median follow-up time was 91 months (range: 40–230 months). Local recurrence occurred in 34 (27.6%) patients at a median time of 45 months (range: 6–214 months). The median, 2-, 5-, and 10-year PFS were 193 months, 89.3, 81.8, and 72.5%, respectively. On univariate and multivariate analyses, factors impacting on PFS were EOR, tumor location, neurologic postoperative status, and adjuvant RT in STR.
Conclusions A safe surgical resection followed by RT adjuvant treatment could represent the better choice to obtain local control maintaining neurologic integrity. Our data underlined the value of adjuvant RT in incompletely resected meningiomas.