bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Trajectory of psychological distress and influencing factors in patients with gynecological cancers: a longitudinal study
Authors: Li Feifei , Xu Jing , He Yueyuan , Zhang Shanhong 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveTo explore the dynamic changes of psychological distress among patients with gynecological cancers across their treatment journey and identify the characteristics of subgroups of patients with distinct trajectories.MethodsThis study included a convenience sample of 132 patients with cervical cancer, ovarian cancer or endometrial cancer who received surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy in the gynecological department of a Grade III and Class A general hospital in Liaoning Province between November 2022 and October 2023. Patients’ mean age was 55.46 ± 11.12 years. Psychological distress was measured with the Distress Thermometer and Problem List 1 day before surgery, before the first chemotherapy session, at the third chemotherapy session, and at the end of the last chemotherapy session. A latent class growth model (LCGM) was used to identify trajectories of psychological distress and explore influencing factors.ResultsThe LCGM identified three different trajectories of psychological distress in patients with gynecological cancers, including Class 1, “high level decline “ (37.4%), Class 2, “no psychological distress” (24.1%), and Class 3, “high level stable” (38.5%). Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed monthly per capita household income, disease type, positive coping style and temperament type were significant predictors of trajectory of psychological distress in patients with gynecological cancers.ConclusionsThis study showed heterogeneity in the trajectory of psychological distress among patients with gynecological cancers. These findings should raise awareness among healthcare providers of the need to implement screening measures and timely psychological interventions in this patient population.
Identification of key genes associated with endometriosis and endometrial cancer by bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Ma Ruyue , Zheng Yu , Wang Jianing , Xu Hong , Zhang Ruirui , Xie Zhijia , Zhang Lei , Zhao Ruiheng 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundEndometriosis (EMS) is acknowledged as a risk factor for the development of endometrial cancer (EC), although the precise molecular mechanisms that underpin this association have yet to be fully elucidated. The primary objective of this investigation is to harness bioinformatics methodologies to identify pivotal genes and pathways that may be implicated in both EMS and EC, potentially offering novel therapeutic biomarkers for the management of endometriosis.MethodsWe acquired four datasets pertaining to EMS and one dataset concerning EC from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in EMS and EC cohorts, in comparison to controls, were ascertained utilizing the limma package. Subsequently, we conducted a series of bioinformatic analyses, including Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis, to delineate pathways associated with the identified DEGs.ResultsOur bioinformatics analyses disclosed 141 shared DEGs between EMS and EC groups relative to the control cohort. GO analysis demonstrated that these genes are predominantly involved in the regulation of growth and development, as well as signal transduction pathways. KEGG analysis underscored the significance of these genes in relation to the JAK-STAT signaling pathway and leukocyte transendothelial migration. Furthermore, PPI analysis pinpointed ten central genes (APOE, FGF9, TIMP1, BGN, C1QB, MX1, SIGLEC1, BST2, ICAM1, MME) exhibiting high interconnectivity. Notably, the expression levels of APOE, BGN, C1QB, and BST2 were found to correlate with cancer genomic atlas data, and were implicated in tumor immune infiltration. Strikingly, only APOE and BGN demonstrated a significant correlation with patient prognosis.ConclusionThis comprehensive bioinformatics analysis has successfully identified key genes that may serve as potential biomarkers for EC. These findings significantly enhance our comprehension of the molecular underpinnings of EC pathogenesis and prognosis, and hold promise for the identification of novel drug targets.
Correlation analysis of preoperative renal insufficiency with major complications in patients who received a radical cystectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection: results of a retrospective observational analysis from a single center
Authors: Wang Haixin , Huang Haiwen , Hao Han , Xi Zhijun 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to explore the factors affecting the major complications and the impacts of preoperative renal function on the incidence of complications in radical cystectomy procedures.MethodsA retrospective review of 705 patients who received radical cystectomy between 2006 and 2021 was conducted. The 90-day complications of patients after a radical cystectomy were reported and the Clavien–Dindo classification (CDC) was used for grading complications. The clinical characteristics and preoperative outcomes were compared among patients with different preoperative renal functions. A logistic regression analysis of all patients was used to identify the risk factors associated with the major complications. Spearman’s correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between the classification of renal insufficiency and the CDC. In order to reduce the selection bias, one-to-one propensity score matching was performed, and the comparison of complications after matching was carried out for the sensitivity analysis.ResultsWithin 90 days post-surgery, 71% of patients experienced complications, with 4.8% of them being major. Patients with preoperative renal insufficiency had a higher CDC and had a higher rate of major complications (16.7% vs 3.7%, p &lt; 0.001). There was a linear relationship between preoperative serum creatinine and complications. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed a slightly positive correlation between the classification of renal insufficiency and the CDC (r=0.094, p = 0.013). Preoperative renal insufficiency was a risk factor for major complications (OR = 6.805 [95%CI: 2.706-17.112]; p &lt; 0.001). After matching, the patients in the preoperative renal insufficiency group had a higher CDC and a higher incidence of major complications (16.9% vs 1.7%, p = 0.004).ConclusionsIn our cohort, patients with preoperative renal insufficiency exhibited a higher incidence of complications following a radical cystectomy, and renal insufficiency was a significant risk factor for major complications.
Arginine supplementation improves lactate dehydrogenase levels in steady-state sickle cell patients: preliminary findings from Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Ngonde Ange C. M. , Lukanu Philippe N. , Mubiala Ange , Aloni Michel N. 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundSickle cell disease (SCD) disrupts oxygen transport due to the abnormal shape and rigidity of red blood cells, leading to hemolysis. Hemolysis, a major co-morbidity in SCD, is indicated by elevated levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Arginine depletion, which is essential for nitric oxide (NO) synthesis, contributes to various complications in SCD. L-arginine supplementation may increase NO levels and reduce oxidative stress. Research on its benefits in SCD, which is prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, is limited. This study evaluates the effect of arginine supplementation on LDH levels in patients with steady state SCD.MethodsIn a retrospective study, we evaluated the effect of arginine supplementation on LDH levels in a cohort of 31 patients. We divided the study into three phases: pre-HU treatment, HU treatment, and combined HU and arginine supplementation.ResultsThe cohort had a median age of 12 years, ranging from 2 to 43 years. Throughout all three phases of the study, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were consistently above the established normal ranges, with elevations of 216.7%, 220.3% and 176.6% above the normative values for baseline, Phase 1 (HU) and Phase 2 (HU + Arg), respectively. Specifically, LDH levels were 649.7 ± 364.2 U/L in Baseline Phase, 661.6 ± 367 U/L in Phase 1, and 529.9 ± 346.3 U/L in Phase 2. When comparing these discrete study intervals, it is noteworthy that LDH levels were significantly lower in Phase 2 compared to the previous phases (p = 0.002).ConclusionPreliminary findings revealed a significant lower LDH levels among sickle cell patients receiving combined arginine supplementation and hydroxyurea (HU). Although these findings are promising, their credibility and applicability require further and more extensive research.
The effect of haemoglobin and blood transfusion on preterm infant gut perfusion and injury
Authors: Howarth Claire , Mifsud Christian , Banerjee Jayanta , Eaton Simon , Leung Terence , Fleming Paul , Morris Joan , Aladangady Narendra 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionThere is significant uncertainty regarding the role that anaemia or red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) plays in the development of gut injury in preterm infants. This study evaluated Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) together with a range of known biomarkers of gut inflammation to identify their relationship with anaemia and RBCT.MethodA prospective observational study of preterm infants born at &lt;30 weeks gestation was conducted from birth until either 36 weeks post conceptional age or discharge home. Gut perfusion and biomarkers of gut injury were assessed weekly by: 60 min NIRS measurements (splanchnic tissue oxygenation index [sTOI] and fractional tissue oxygenation extraction [sFTOE]); stool calprotectin; urine intestinal and liver fatty acid binding proteins (I-FABPs and L-FABPs); and trefoil factor 3 (TFF-3). Exclusion criteria included Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR), and abnormal antenatal Dopplers. Haemoglobin (Hb) levels were measured in parallel with NIRS measurements. NIRS, together with urine and stool biomarkers of gut injury, were evaluated up to 72 h pre/post RBCT and pre/post measurements compared.ResultsForty-eight infants were studied. Median (range) gestational age was 26 + 3 (23 + 0 to 29 + 6) weeks and birthweight 883.5 g (460–1,600). Seven (14.6%) infants developed ≥ Bells stage 2 NEC. 28 (58.3%), 5 (10.4%) and 24 (50%) infants had ECHO confirmed PDA, haemorrhagic parenchymal infarct (HPI) and IVH respectively. There were 22 episodes of sepsis. Infants were in the study for a median of 7.3 (1–13) weeks. There was no significant association between Hb divided into three categories (&lt;80 g/L, 80–111.9 g/L and ≥120 g/L) or continuous values and sTOI, sFTOE or any of the gut injury biomarkers measured (p &gt; 0.05). 283 RBCTs were administered; 117 (41.3%) within the first two weeks of life. Pre and post blood transfusion changes in splanchnic NIRS oxygenation, urine and stool gut injury biomarkers were measured in 165, 195 and 175 episodes of RBCT respectively. There was no significant post RBCT changes in splanchnic NIRS or gut injury biomarker levels (p &gt; 0.05). However, post RBCT calprotectin was significantly reduced during the first 14 days of life (mean difference −114%, CI −185 to −42 &amp; p 0.002).ConclusionThere was no association between anaemia or RBCT with NIRS measurements of tissue oxygen saturation and biomarkers of intestinal inflammation or gut injury in preterm infants enrolled in this study. Further studies with standardised methods of examining the relationship between anaemia, RBCT and gut injury are needed.
On scaling of proton- boron fusion power in a nanosecond vacuum discharge
Authors: Kurilenkov Yu. K. , Andreev S. N. 
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we present the results of further PiC simulations in the full electromagnetic code of the processes leading to the proton-boron reactions in a single device for plasma confinement, based on miniature nanosecond vacuum discharge (NVD) in a cylindrical geometry. In particular, we present and discuss in more detail the α particle output for the real electrodes geometry used in the first aneutronic proton–boron fusion experiments with NVD. It follows from them that the total yield of α particles was accumulated in the initial experiments due to only single head-on converging of protons and boron ions accelerated in a very narrow potential well to the discharge axis. Further, in search of the ways for optimizing of proton–boron fusion in NVD, we study the scaling of fusion power depending on the size of the virtual cathode (or the inner radius of the anode space). The results of the PiC simulations by KARAT code show that the number of the proton-boron reactions at anode space of NVD increases with the anode volume grow, and the α particles output turns out to be proportional to the value of anode radius in the range RA ≈ 0.1–0.5 cm. However, the number of proton-boron reactions reaches some saturation under RA growing at the fixed time of high voltage applied and value of the energy input. In general, the formation of a more voluminous potential well (wider in radius and extended along the discharge axis), with well–defined oscillations of protons and boron ions in it, provides a noticeable increase in the output of α particles.
Effect of 12 weeks of detraining and retraining on the cardiorespiratory fitness in a competitive master athlete: a case study
Authors: Lepers Romuald , Mater Adrien , Assadi Hervé , Zanou Nadège , Gremeaux Vincent , Place Nicolas 
Published: November 2024

PurposeThis study examined the physiological effects of 12 weeks of detraining and retraining in a highly trained master triathlete (age 53.8 years).MethodsVariables associated with swimming, cycling, and running performance, including V˙O2max, peak power output (PPO), gross cycling efficiency (CE), running maximal aerobic velocity (MAV), running economy (RE), muscle strength, and body composition were assessed before the last race of the season (baseline), after 12 weeks of detraining, and after 12 weeks of retraining.ResultsDetraining resulted in a 9.1% and 10.9% decrease in relative V˙O2max for cycling and running, respectively. PPO and MAV declined by 12.7% and 8.6%, respectively. After detraining, CE decreased by 6.2%, and RE was 22% higher than the baseline. The maximal strength capacity of the knee extensor muscles decreased by an average of 8.2%. Body fat percentage increased from 10.5% to 13.8%, while lean mass decreased by 2.2 kg. After retraining, almost all variables returned to baseline or even slightly increased, except RE and lean mass, which did not return to baseline.ConclusionAfter 12 weeks of detraining, a lifelong master triathlete can regain his cardiorespiratory fitness (i.e., V˙O2max) with 12 weeks of progressive and structured retraining, but his running economy and lean mass remain slightly depressed.
Factors of migrant children’s participation in basic medical insurance in China: an empirical study based on DEMATEL-ISM method
Authors: Li Hongyan , Yang Chuanghao , Liu Zhiyang , Chen Zhihao 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundDeepening medical insurance reform is pivotal in promoting fairness, inclusiveness, and sustainability within the system, particularly by enhancing coordination levels and strengthening the interconnection between medical insurance, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. In China, 71.09 million migrant children, who make up 23.86% of the total child population, exhibit lower participation rates in medical insurance compared to other groups. The health status of children serves as a crucial barometer for the country’s socioeconomic standing and the quality of its medical services. Therefore, the inclusion of migrant children in basic medical insurance is essential for elevating their health standards and contributing to the accumulation of human capital.MethodThis study employed the structural-dynamic-process-result framework derived from synergy theory. It identified 18 factors influencing the participation of migrant children in basic medical insurance. Utilizing the DEMATEL-ISM method, the research analyzed these factors, culminating in the development of a comprehensive five-level hierarchical structure model.ResultThe research identified the medical insurance system’s arrangements as central to influencing the participation of migrant children in medical insurance. The household registration system emerged as a critical factor with significant mandatory and motivational impacts. The study categorized the 18 influencing factors into three tiers: superficial inducing factors, intermediate influencing factors, and deep-rooted causal factors. These tiers demonstrate a complex web of interdependencies and influences, highlighting that encouraging migrant children’s participation in medical insurance is a multifaceted systemic endeavor. This process necessitates collaborative efforts from families, schools, markets, society, and government bodies.ConclusionTo effectively foster the participation of migrant children in basic medical insurance, a strong focus on identifying and addressing core issues is required. This approach should be coupled with enhanced strategic planning and coordination skills to ensure that reforms and developmental strides are equitably beneficial. Recommendations include decentralizing children’s medical insurance from local constraints, refining insurance system design, elevating the level of medical insurance coordination, and boosting insurance participation efficiency. Additionally, fortifying the collaborative dynamics among healthcare, medical insurance, and pharmaceutical sectors is crucial in building a united front to support migrant children’s healthcare needs.
Does internet use promote the health of empty-nest older adults in rural China? The mediating role of social participation using a propensity score matching approach
Authors: Shen Li , Zheng Yawen , Wang Mengting , Pan Hong , Jian Wenqian , Yang Xudong , Wang Wei , Chen Li 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundThe rapid growth of internet use among older adults in rural China offers a unique opportunity to examine its potential impact on their health. This study seeks to explore the relationship between internet use and the emotional, physical, and cognitive health of empty-nest older adults in rural China, while also considering the mediating role of social participation in this relationship.MethodsA total of 3,478 empty-nest older adults were selected from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS) in 2020. Among them, 820 individuals were included in the study using a propensity score matching (PSM) method to reduce the impact of selection bias. The participants' depression, physical health, and cognitive health were measured using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scale, and a composite cognition score, respectively. Social participation was assessed based on engagement in various activities over the past month.ResultsAfter controlling for confounding factors through PSM, it was found that older adults who used the internet exhibited significantly lower level of depression and higher physical health compared to older adults who did not use the internet. However, there was no significant difference in cognitive health between the two groups. The mediating effect analysis revealed that social participation partially mediated the relationship between internet use and physical health, but not emotional health.ConclusionThe study suggests that internet use can improve emotional and physical health of older adults living in rural China without children at home, with social participation being a mediator in the relationship between internet use and physical health. Future research should explore the underlying mechanisms and develop targeted interventions to promote internet use and social engagement in this population.
Minimum meal frequency and associated factors among children aged 6–23 months in Sub-Saharan Africa: a multilevel analysis of the demographic and health survey data
Authors: Tebeje Tsion Mulat , Abebe Mesfin , Tesfaye Solomon Hailemariam , Seboka Binyam Tariku , Argaw Girum Shibeshi , Seifu Beminate Lemma , Mare Kusse Urmale , Aragaw Fantu Mamo 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundWorldwide, approximately half of all children are not provided the minimum meal frequency (MMF). Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) had the lowest proportion of children aged 6–23 months who met the requirements of the complementary feeding indicators, including MMF. Ensuring adequate meal frequency poses a challenge in numerous developing countries, particularly in regions characterized by low household food security, such as SSA. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the pooled prevalence of MMF and its associated factors in SSA via the most recent demographic and health survey data.MethodsA total of 100,526 weighted samples from demographic and health survey datasets of 35 SSA countries were used. A multilevel Poisson regression model with robust variance was applied to identify factors associated with MMF, and the model with the lowest deviance was the best-fitted model. An adjusted prevalence ratio with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was reported, and variables with a p &lt; 0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultsThe pooled prevalence of MMF among children aged 6–23 months in SSA was 38.47% (95% CI: 34.97–41.97), which ranged from 21.41% in Liberia to 63.98% in Madagascar. According to the subgroup analysis, the pooled magnitude of MMF in central, west, east, and southern Africa was 36.42, 35.46, 39.97, and 50.69%, respectively. Marital status, maternal education level, sex of household head, working status, wealth index, media exposure, age of the child, postnatal check-up, breastfeeding status, residence, and SSA regions were significantly associated with minimum meal frequency.ConclusionLess than forty percent of infants and young children in SSA receive the minimum recommended meal frequency, which is relatively low. This presents a notable difficulty in efforts to prevent malnutrition and attain sustainable development goals related to health and nutrition on the continent. Therefore, priority should be given to empowering women, promoting breastfeeding and postnatal check-ups, targeting infants who just started complementary feeding, and spreading information through media.