bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the efficacy of different obesity surgeries in patients with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Qi Tengfei , Ding yunfa , Dai Xiaojiang , He Jipei , Zhang Hongbin , Wu Liangping 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To investigate the effectiveness of different bariatric metabolic surgeries in improving metabolic syndrome indicators in patients.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on obese patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy + jejunojejunal bypass (LSG + JJB), and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). Patients were categorized into groups based on their surgical procedure: LSG (N = 199), LSG + JJB (N = 242), and LRYGB (N = 288).
Results
Successful laparoscopic bariatric metabolic surgery was achieved in 729 patients. Indicators related to body mass, glucose metabolism, insulin resistance, lipid metabolism, and kidney function showed significant improvement compared to the preoperative period. and these changes were strongly correlated.
Conclusion
LSG, LSG + JJB, and LRYGB all demonstrate significant effectiveness in promoting weight loss and improving glycolipid metabolism in the short term. Post-surgery, symptoms of metabolic syndrome improved compared to the preoperative period, with LRYGB showing superior effectiveness over LSG + JJB and LSG. these improvements were also found to be strongly correlated.
Homology modeling and Structural docking analysis on a human BDNF gene by using Computational algorithms
Authors: Ramzan Kainat , Sabri Sabeen , Alshaya Dalal Sulaiman , Ramzan Saira , Khan Muhammad Saleem , Abbas Farhan , Attia Kotb A. , Murtaza Maryam 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein belonging to the neurotrophin family, interacts with receptors known as TrkB and p75NTR that are present in the nervous system. A BDNF gene is responsible for the plasticity of glutamate, and GABA synapses and also influences the differentiation of neurons and impacts serotonergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission. The present study executes comprehensive computational research on the BDNF protein, assessing structural and functional consequences by predicting its sequence analysis and structural modeling. The results found that BDNF is negatively charged, and non-polar with a hydrophilic and soluble GRAVY score of -0.456 and is generally unstable, based on its physiochemical attributes. The intricate network interactions highlight the role that signaling pathways play in cancer development. The prevalence of α-helices relative to β-type structures highlights significant structural characteristics associated with the functional BDNF elements. The selected protein was studied using in-silico tools for 3D structure prediction as a potential target for protein-ligand docking analysis. PyRx tool findings revealed that IND24, Congo red, Neoamphimedine, Amphimedine, Deoxyamphimedine, and Emetine had the highest docking scores and the most stable interactions with the protein model. Based on these findings, the selected protein emerges as a promising target for protein-ligand docking, a computational method for identifying potential drug molecules. Through protein-ligand docking, researchers aim to discover new therapeutic candidates that can modulate the function of the selected protein and potentially impact associated brain diseases.
A diagnostic nomogram model integrating the O-RADS and serum indexes for predicting malignancy in patients with ovarian masses
Authors: Gu Yifan , Zhao Lingling , Chen Weiwei , Yang Lei , Qian Cheng , Li Mengdan , Yang Yifei , Chen Xiaoyang , Yin Yifei 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
To design a diagnostic nomogram model integrating the Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) and serum indexes for predicting malignancy in patients with ovarian masses.
Methods
This was a retrospective study including 201 benign ovarian masses patients and 136 ovarian cancer (OC) patients from June 2011 to April 2022. Before surgical resection, all patients underwent transvaginal ultrasound, as well as transabdominal ultrasound examination, and tumour parameters according to O-RADS (morphology, internal echo, blood supply, etc.) were assessed. Meanwhile, serum indexes, including cancer antigen 125 (CA125) and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), were tested. After surgical resection, all patients were pathologically diagnosed. The differences in serological indexes and O-RADS scores between the benign and malignant groups were analysed using the Mann-Whitney U test. ROC curves were firstly used to determine their optimal cut-off values. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify CA125, NLR and O-RADS for OC. Then, the prediction nomogram model was established. A decision curve analysis (DCA) was performed to assess the clinical net benefit of the model. The calibration curve and the Hosmer–Lemeshow test were performed to assess the calibration and the goodness-of-fit of the nomogram model respectively.
Results
A total of 337 women [median age:45(32–57)] with 337 ovarian masses were included. Of the 337 ovarian masses, 201 were benign (benign group) and 136 were malignant (malignant group). CA125, NLR and O-RADS in the malignant group were significantly higher compared to the benign group. These parameters were then incorporated to develop a nomogram model, and this model showed an area under the ROC curve of 0.942 (95% confidence interval, 0.917–0.968), with 97.800% sensitivity and 76.600% specificity. The calibration curve showed a good fitting degree. Meanwhile, DCA provided a net benefit for a range of threshold probabilities.
Conclusions
This nomogram model yielded a favourable diagnostic accuracy for predicting malignancy in patients with ovarian masses.
Advanced Liver Fibrosis Impairs Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Patients with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease
Authors: Sogbe Miguel , Hummer Breianna , Stine Jonathan G. , Lizaola-Mayo Blanca , Forman Daniel E. , Vargas Hugo E. , Duarte-Rojo Andres 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
MASLD is a leading reason for liver transplant waitlisting. The relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and liver fibrosis in patients with MASLD remains unclear. This study aims to provide further evidence supporting the relationship between liver fibrosis and CRF.
Methods
Subjects with MASLD across various fibrosis stages, including those with cirrhosis awaiting liver transplantation from three U.S. transplant centers, underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX). We compared participants based on fibrosis stage (F0-F1, F2-F3, and F4) and CPX parameters such as VO2peak, respiratory exchange ratio (RER), ventilatory efficiency (VE/VCO2), double product (DP) and chronotropic incompetence (CI). Multivariable models were then built to evaluate factors associated with these parameters.
Results
Sixty-one subjects underwent CPX testing across three centers. Subjects with F4 had lower VO2peak (11.8 mL/kg/min) compared to F0-F1 (22.2 mL/kg/min) and F2-F3 (22.9 mL/kg/min), p < 0.001. Subjects with F4 had higher RER (median 1.25) compared to F0-F1 (1.08) and F2-F3 (1.05), p = 0.001. Similarly, F4 subjects exhibited higher VE/VCO2 (median 36.5) compared to F0-F1 (31) and F2-F3 (30), p < 0.001. Additionally, F4 subjects had lower DP values (median 17,696) compared to F0-F1 (25,460) and F2-F3 (25,372), and higher prevalence of CI (90%) compared to F0-F1 (39%) and F2-F3 (25%), both p = < 0.001. Multivariable modeling confirmed advanced fibrosis (F > 3) as an independent predictor of low CRF.
Conclusions
In MASLD patients, advanced liver fibrosis, particularly cirrhosis, is associated with reduced CRF and poorer hemodynamic performance during CPX. Prioritizing exercise training for those in earlier stages (F3) may prevent fitness decline, which could hinder physical training and liver transplantation candidacy.
Quantifying natural amyloid plaque accumulation in the continuum of Alzheimer’s disease using ADNI
Authors: Elhefnawy Marwa E. , Patson Noel , Mouksassi Samer , Pillai Goonaseelan (Colin) , Shcherbinin Sergey , Chigutsa Emmanuel , Gueorguieva Ivelina 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Brain amyloid beta neuritic plaque accumulation is associated with an increased risk of progression to Alzheimer's disease (AD) [1]. Several studies estimate rates of change in amyloid plaque over time in clinically heterogeneous cohorts with different factors impacting amyloid plaque accumulation from ADNI and AIBL [2-4], but there are no reports using non-linear mixed effect model for amyloid plaque progression over time similar to that existing of disease-modifying biomarkers for other diseases [5, 6]. This study describes the natural progression of amyloid accumulation with population mean and between-participant variability for baseline and intrinsic progression rates quantified across the AD spectrum.
Method: 1340 ADNI participants were followed over a 10-year period with 18F-florbetapir PET scans used for amyloid plaque detection. Non-linear mixed effect with stepwise covariate modelling (scm) was used.
Results: Change in natural amyloid plaque levels over 10 year period followed an exponential growth model with an intrinsic rate of approx. 3 centiloid units/year. Age, gender, APOE4 genotype and disease stage were important factors on the baseline in the natural amyloid model. In APOE4 homozygous carriers mean baseline amyloid was increased compared to APOE4 non carriers.
Conclusions: These results demonstrate natural progression of amyloid plaque in the continuum of AD.
Prevalence and Determinants of the Pool Sign in Lung Cancer Patients with Brain Metastasis
Authors: Long Ying , Chen Zhao-ping , Wang Lin-hui , Liao Xue-qing , Guo Ming , Huang Zhong-qing 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The pool sign, an emerging biomarker for differentiating brain metastasis (BM) from primary neoplasm, has mainly been discussed in case reports. However, systematic research on its prevalence and influencing factors in lung cancer patients with BM is lacking. This study aims to evaluate the occurrence of the pool sign and identify factors influencing its presence.
Materials and methods
Between January 2017 and August 2024, data from 6,004 lung cancer patients were retrospectively extracted from the electronic health record system. The clinical and demographic characteristics of the patients, as well as imaging features of BMs, were obtained and subsequently compared between the pool sign group and the non-pool sign group using both univariate and multivariate statistical analyses.
Results
A total of 427 patients (81 women; mean age, 62.17 years) were enrolled in the study. The pool sign was observed in 29 patients (6.8%). The inter-reader reliability for the pool sign ranged from moderate to substantial (0.61–0.80), while the intra-reader reliability was 0.6. In the multivariate analysis, the findings demonstrated that an increase in tumor volume (OR = 1.035, 95% CI 1.008–1.063, P < 0.012) and the presence of a solid-cystic mass (OR = 6.49, 95% CI 1.377–30.597, P = 0.018) were significantly correlated with a higher probability of pool sign occurrence.
Conclusions
The incidence of the pool sign is 6.8%, and its occurrence is independently influenced by lesion volume and manifestations. The diagnostic value of this sign in the diagnosis and management of BM warrants further investigation.
Harnessing the Antibacterial Properties of Zambian-Grown Artemisia annua in the Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance: An In vitro study
Authors: Ngwisha Joshua , Hang’ombe Bernard Mudenda , Choongo Kennedy , Nyirenda James , Mwenechanya Roy , Mwaanga Edwell , Samutela Mulemba Tilika , Kadango Zombe , Kabwali Emmanuel 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health crisis, leading to millions of deaths annually. The scarcity of new antibiotics has created an urgent need for alternative therapeutic agents from natural sources. Artemisia annua, a plant traditionally used in medicine, has demonstrated significant antibacterial properties. This study evaluates the efficacy of Artemisia annua extracts against various bacterial strains, including those resistant to conventional antibiotics, and analyses its phytochemical composition. The research focuses on Zambia, where limited access to antibiotics and reliance on traditional medicine heightens the need for locally accessible alternatives.Materials and Methods: Artemisia annua plants were collected from Choma District, Zambia, identified using morphological characteristics, and deposited as herbarium specimens. Plant materials were air-dried, coarsely powdered, and sequentially macerated at room temperature using hexane, hexane-ethyl acetate mixture, dichloromethane and ethanol. Antibacterial activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and other bacteria using disk diffusion and broth microdilution methods. The extract was qualitatively screened for phytochemicals.Results: The ethanol extract of A. annua exhibited significant antibacterial activity, particularly against S. aureus, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa. Disk diffusion and broth microdilution assays showed the extract’s inhibitory effects were comparable or superior to tetracycline (α = 0,05), particularly against resistant strains, linked to its bioactive compounds.Conclusion: This study suggests that A. annua holds potential as a natural antibacterial agent, especially in resource-limited human-environmental-wildlife-livestock interface settings like Zambia, where access to conventional antibiotics is limited. Its extract, rich in phenols and flavonoids, could be further developed for antimicrobial therapies in Zambia.
“I am carrying a baby whose father I do not know.” Experiences and context of girls pregnant from rape and sought sexual and reproductive health services
Authors: Mhango Patani , Mtende Medrina , Kangaude Godfrey , Mapemba Mphatso , Doherty Patricia , Sangala Wina , Kachale Fannie , Chipeta Effie 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Access to safe abortion and post-abortion care plays a crucial role in promoting comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights. While abortion is legal in the majority of countries, there are often restrictive laws and criminal regulations that impede access, resulting in unsafe abortions. Unsafe abortions are especially prevalent among girls and women in developing countries. Even though Malawi has ratified the Maputo Protocol, which obligates states to provide abortion on several grounds, Malawi continues to restrict access, thereby presenting significant health, social and legal obstacles for women. The present study aims to delve into the experiences of pregnant girls and young women as they navigate sexual and reproductive health services within the confines of this legal framework.
Methodology:
This exploratory qualitative study aimed to understand the lived experiences of pregnant girls (aged 13–17 years) seeking sexual and reproductive health services within the restrictive legal context of Malawi. Semi-structured in-depth interviews, Key Informant Interviews, and focus group discussions were conducted with a diverse group of stakeholders, including girls who had experienced sexual assault, their parents or guardians, community leaders, healthcare providers, and policy-makers. Data collection took place in February and March 2023, with interviews conducted in the participant’s preferred language. Thematic content analysis was used to identify key themes and sub-themes from the qualitative data.
Results
The study included 36 participants: 14 girls aged 13–17 and 22 adults; including parents/guardians, healthcare workers, and different stakeholders at the community and policy level. Four main themes emerged from the data: experiences of pregnancy resulting from rape, ineffective legal recourse, reflections on the need for safe abortion services, and perspectives on the Termination of Pregnancy Bill. Young girls reported fear, embarrassment, and significant mental health challenges due to unintended pregnancies and lack of access to safe abortion. Parents and community members expressed disappointment with the judicial system and highlighted the physical and mental health risks associated with restrictive abortion laws. There was a strong demand for safe abortion services, especially in cases of rape and incest. However, awareness and knowledge about safe abortion services and the Termination of Pregnancy Bill were limited among community stakeholders.
Conclusion
The study emphasizes the urgent need for legal and policy reforms to improve access to safe abortion services in Malawi. The restrictive legal framework not only endangers the health and well-being of young girls and women but also perpetuates stigma and inequality.
Stochastic Optimization of a Multi-Carrier Energy System with the Participation of Renewable Energy Sources and Integrated Demand Response Programs
Authors: Babajani-Chari Mohammad amin , Ghasemi-Marzbali Ali 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In contemporary engineering, devising an optimal plan for an energy hub-based microgrid, which incorporates renewable resources and meets both electrical and thermal demands, presents a substantial challenge. In this study, the stochastic optimization of a multi-carrier energy microgrid system with the presence of renewable energy sources is addressed. To control and optimally allocate costs and create a better profile for electrical and thermal loads, a demand response program is utilized. Given the uncertainty of renewable resources, scenario-based planning and reduction are proposed to address this issue. For realistic planning, this study models a 24-hour ahead scheduling, with objective functions based on energy purchase costs, fuel costs, profits from energy sales, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The proposed model and method are then applied to a sample system in a Python software environment using solvers. The results are analyzed under various scenarios, considering different parameters, including uncertainty and demand response programs. According to the obtained results, the total cost of meeting the electrical and thermal demand of consumers through the electricity and gas network is 279,910 cents, whereas the cost of meeting the same demand by the optimized system is 164,682 cents, achieving approximately 41% savings.
Associates of Neutrophil/lymphocyte Ratio in Patients with COVID 19 Infection: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Turan B. , Baysal E. , Ömür C. , Abdulrahman Y. , Çınar C. , Kocakaya D. , Yıldızeli S. Olgun , Eryüksel E. , Karakurt S. , Balcan Baran 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The ongoing outbreak of novel Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) has critically worsened the lives of millions of people causing a major public health crisis globally. There are many factors that effects the morbidity and the mortality conditions among patients with COVID 19 infection.
Aims and objective
We addressed the determinants and of the factors associated with mortality of the patients with COVID 19 infection and the association of neutrophil lymphocyte ratio and the mortality.
Methods
163 participants with COVID 19 infection who were treated in the clinic and ICU were evaluated retrospectively
Results
163 participants 44.8 % women were evaluated retrospectively. Mean age of the patients was 55.8 ± 16.8. Mortality observed in 14.1 % of the participants. There were significant difference between the groups regarding the laboratory findings, hospitalization duration, comorbidity indexes and admission to ICU in deceased group when compared to survivors.
In the univariate logistic regression analysis there were significant associations between age (OR 0.9; CI 95 % 0.91 – 0.97), lymphocyte count (OR 1.01; CI 95 %, 1.00 – 1.01), neutrophil count (OR 1.00; CI 95 % 1.00 – 1.00), CRP (OR 0.98; CI 95 % 0.98 – 0.99), D dimer (OR 0.88; CI 95 % 0.78 – 0.99), ferritin (OR 0.99; CI 95 % 0.99 – 1.00), and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (OR; 0.89 CI 95 % 0.83 – 0.97). However, the significant association between neutrophil lymphocyte ratio was lost in the multivariate model
Conclusion.
Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio is not associated with mortality in patients with COVID 19 infection
Validation and Reliability Assessment of the Croatian Version of the Individualized Care Subscale-B-Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study in Home Healthcare
Authors: Cindrić Željka , Malnar Daniela 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Individualizing the provision of care is indispensable in nursing and clinical practice. There are no valid and reliable instruments for evaluating individualized care in Croatian healthcare.
Objectives
To translate and psychometrically assess the Individualized Care Subscale (ICS)-B-Nurses for Croatian healthcare.
Design:
Cross-sectional study.
Setting:
Data were collected within services of home healthcare between February 2021 and June 2021 in Croatia.
Participants:
This study included 132 nurses. All the respondents had direct contact with patients.
Methods
The ICS-B-Nurse subscale was translated into Croatian via a forward-backwards translation procedure. The construct validity was examined via a confirmatory factor analysis. The internal consistency was estimated via McDonald’s omega and Cronbach’s alpha methods, among other correlation measures.
Results
The ICS-B-Nurse was verified in the Croatian version through confirmatory factor analysis (factor loadings > 0.3; acceptable fit indices: SRMR ≈ 0.08, CFI ≈ 0.9, RMSEA ≈ 0.09). McDonald's omega exceeded 0.7 for the subsection and subscale, thus revealing adequate internal consistency.
Conclusion
The Croatian version of the ICS-B-Nurses has exhibited acceptable psychometric performance, supporting its use in the Croatian healthcare context.
Tax Neutrality and Corporate Risk-Taking: Evidence from the Reform of Uncredited Value-Added Tax Refund in China
Authors: Du Ya-Guang , He Ying 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Our study investigates the association between tax neutrality and corporate risk-taking in China. Exploiting the new implementation of China’s value-added tax (VAT) reform to construct a difference-in-differences model, we find that increased tax neutrality is associated with higher corporate risk-taking. This finding arises because the refund of uncredited VAT provides the funding effects to promote total factor productivity (TFP) and R&D investment intensity, and the resultant improved TFP and R&D investment intensity enhance corporate risk-taking. Moreover, this association is more salient in firms with higher financing constraints, lower tax enforcement, and weak managerial self-interest incentives. Our results provide a novel implication that tax neutrality has a positive spillover effect on corporate risk-taking behaviors.
JEL codes: H21, G33