bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Intra-socket Application of Hyaluronic Acid Gel on Soft and Hard Tissue Healing Following Impacted Mandibular Third Molars Extraction(a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial)
Authors: Elkady Omnia , Sweedan Osama , Amer Tasneem 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
One of the most frequent dental operations is the surgical extraction of an impacted third molar. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of the intra-socket application of 0.8% hyaluronic acid (HA) gel on hard & soft tissue healing after surgical removal of the impacted 3rd molar.
Objective
Materials and methods
This randomized controlled clinical study included thirty patients aged from 21–36 years who were scheduled for surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molar. 0.8% hyaluronic acid gel (HA group) was applied immediately after surgery in the intra-socket of 15 patients, and nothing (No HA group) was applied to the socket of the other 15 patients. Soft and hard tissue healing was assessed after extraction on the third, seventh, and fourteenth day.
Results
The soft tissue healing index was significantly better (very good or excellent) in the HA group compared with no HA group after fourteen days postoperative (p < .001). Also, the percentage increase of bone density in the HA group was statistically significantly higher after two months than in the no HA group ((p < .001)
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid 0.8% gel application improves soft tissue healing and bone density healing following surgical extraction of the mandibular third molar. It could be considered a valuable material for improving bone healing and soft tissue.
Trial registration
The trial is retrospectively registered at the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry with the identification number for the registry PACTR202407576478340.
Hypothalamic Subregion Alterations in Short Stature Children and Relations to Growth-Regulated Hormone Level and Cognitive Changes
Authors: Chen Xiaojun , zhan Xiafei , Lu Yi , Pan Jiangfeng , Yan Zhihan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Rationale and Objectives: To delve into the volume alterations of the hypothalamus subregions among short stature children, identify the relations to growth-regulated hormone level and cognitive changes.
Materials and Methods: Structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was obtained from 79 children with diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency (GHD), 89 children with idiopathic short stature (ISS). Levels of IGF-1, IGFBP-3, ACTH and cortisol were measured and the growth hormone stimulation test was used to documented the GH level. The Wechsler Intelligence Scale test was used to assessment cognitive changes. Based on an automated hypothalamus segmentation tool, the hypothalamus and its subregions were segmented. Volumes of the hypothalamic subregions were compared between the two groups. Correlational analysis was used to assess the relationship between morphometric alterations with hormone levels and cognitive changes.
Results: Posterior subregion (PS) and tubular inferior subregion (TIS) volumes were significant smaller in GHD children compared with ISS children. However, GHD children got bigger volume in whole hypothalamus. In the whole cohort, the intelligent scores of Processing Speed Index (PSI) and Cognitive Proficiency Index (CPI) were positively correlated with the volume of PS, WH (whole hypothalamus) respectively. In GHD group, the volume of TIS was positively correlated with the level of IGFBP-3. Additionally, the volume of PS was negatively correlated with the levels of peak GH and GH levels recorded at intervals of 30 min, 90 min.
Conclusion: Analyzing hypothalamus subregions could improve understanding of GHD pathophysiology and may serve as non-invasive imaging biomarkers, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Comparison of mortality and cardiovascular complications due to COVID-19, RSV, and influenza in hospitalized children and young adults
Authors: Khanal Sagya , Khanal Bishes , Chou Fu-Sheng , Moon-Grady Anita J , Ghimire Laxmi V 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Respiratory viruses are linked to cardiovascular complications. We aim to compare cardiovascular complications due to COVID-19, influenza and RSV.
Methods
We analyzed cross-sectional data from hospitalized children and young adults (≤ 20 years) from 2020 and 2021 using National Inpatient Sample(NIS). We included individuals hospitalized for COVID-19, RSV, and influenza, and weighted data were used to compare cardiovascular complications.
Results
Of 212,655 respiratory virus admissions, 85,055 were from COVID-19, 103,185 were from RSV, and 24,415 were from influenza. Myocarditis was higher in COVID-19 [0.9%,n = 740] as compared to influenza [0.2%,n = 55] and RSV [0.1%,n = 65]. In the adjusted logistic regression, the odds of myocarditis was 61% lower in influenza [aOR = 0.39 (0.20–0.76), P = 0.006], and 85% lower in RSV [aOR = 0.15 (0.07–0.34) P < 0.001] as compared to COVID-19. Heart block was higher in COVID-19 [0.8%,n = 690] versus influenza [0.5%,n = 110] and RSV [0.2%,n = 205]. After adjusting for confounders for heart block, compared to COVID-19, the odds of heart block was 49% lower in RSV [aOR = 0.51 (0.33–0.80), P = 0.004] but no statistically significant difference in influenza [aOR = 0.79 (0.48–1.31), P = 0.374] was seen. Tachyarrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and in-hospital mortality showed no differences after adjusting for covariates.
Conclusion
Individuals with COVID-19 infection are more likely to develop cardiovascular complications compared to influenza and RSV, highlighting the need for higher index of suspicion and prompt treatment, as well as steps to limit infection and transmission of this virus in children.
Prevalence, associated factors, and viral load dynamics of chronic hepatitis B virus among HIV patients in three healthcare of South Kivu province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Authors: Bisimwa Parvine Basimane , Mukonkole Jean Paulin Mbo , Koyaweda Giscard Wilfried , Matabishi Cadeau Mugisho , Kashosi Théophile Mitima , Mukanga Omari , Mukengere Denis Mukwege , Nachega Jean Bisimwa , Komas Narcisse Patrice Joseph 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) significantly impacts public health, particularly among individuals with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Co-infection can worsen HBV progression and increase chronic liver disease risks. This study assesses HBV marker frequency, viral load, and associated factors in HIV patients in South Kivu to understand the health implications of HBV-HIV co-infection.
Methods
This cross-sectional study, from July 1, 2019, to July 30, 2021, included 864 HIV patients aged 18 to 70 from General Referral Hospital of Panzi, Regional Military Hospital of Bukavu, and Fomulac Hospital. Participants, on antiretroviral therapy or newly diagnosed, consented for blood testing for hepatitis B using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and viral loads using GeneXpert. Data were analyzed with Stata SE 14.0. Ethical approval was secured from National Health Ethics Committee (CNES001/DPSK/124PP/2019).
Results
The study found 8.0% HBsAg positivity among HIV patients in South Kivu, with 41.3% and 14.1% showing anti-HBc and anti-HBs antibodies, respectively. HBs positivity was linked to male gender (AOR = 2.96; p = 0.007), rural origin (AOR = 4.32; p = 0.014), treatment at Fomulac Hospital (AOR = 4.87; p = 0.002), marital status (AOR = 4.55; p = 0.036), lower education (AOR = 57.25; p = 0.002), jaundice history (AOR = 3.98; p = 0.021), and < 5 years of unprotected sex (AOR = 10.96; p = 0.002). The HIV viral load averaged 1807 ± 3698 copies/ml, with no significant difference between HIV-only and co-infected individuals (p = 0.6642). 58.0% on ART had undetectable HIV loads. For HBV, 43.5% had undetectable, 49.3% low, and 7.2% high viral loads. A correlation existed between HIV and HBV loads; undetectable HIV corresponded to undetectable HBV in 62.5%, and high HIV loads to high HBV in 50.0%.
Conclusion
High HBV co-infection rates in HIV-positive individuals in South Kivu necessitate regular HBV monitoring and integrated prevention, screening, and vaccination strategies in HIV care. Despite ART managing both infections effectively, further research on HBV-related outcomes is essential for improving co-infected patient care.
Effects of early supplemental parenteral nutrition on new-onset infection in adults with acute severe stroke: A single-center retrospective case-control study
Authors: Ma Chen , Fan Zhirong , Wang Xuan , Li Bian , Zhao Jingjing , Kang Xiaogang , Jiang Wen , Yang Fang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Early adequate feeding reduces the mortality in patients with acute severe stroke. Supplemental parenteral nutrition (SPN) may address enteral nutrition (EN) deficiency and mitigate the risk of nosocomial infection. The benefit of EN plus early SPN strategy over full EN strategy is unknown in acute severe stroke.
Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 20 patients with acute severe stroke in SPN group who received EN plus early SPN (more than 50% of energy target within 72h after admission). Forty control cases in the EN group who received full EN were matched by age, sex and lesion site. Time to new-onset pneumonia or nosocomial infections were analyzed by Student’s t-test and Breslow generalized Wilcoxon test.
Results: Baseline characteristics were major similar between matched groups, while patients in the SPN group had higher level of serum leukocyte, neutrophil and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (P<0.05). Compared to the EN group, the time to new-onset pneumonia was significantly delayed in the SPN group (7.6 days vs. 5.2 days; mean difference, 2.5 days; 95%CI, 0.65 to 4.31, P=0.009), as well as the time to new-onset nosocomial infections (7.1 days vs. 4.8 days; mean difference, 2.3 days; 95%CI, 0.46 to 4.07, P=0.015). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed similar cumulative probability of new-onset pneumonia or new-onset nosocomial infections in the two groups (P>0.05). The rate of digestive intolerance events between the two groups were similar (40% in the SPN group vs 52.5% in the EN group, P=0.361).
Conclusions: In patients with acute severe stroke, the application of EN plus early SPN could delay the onset of pneumonia and nosocomial infections especially at early phase.
Australian Palliative Care Outcome Collaboration (PCOC) Phases: Cross Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Validation for Polish Palliative Settings
Authors: Wilk-Lelito Katarzyna , Białoń-Janusz Anna , Kowalczyk Magdalena , Wesołek Elżbieta , Grądalski Tomasz 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Measuring the quality of palliative care requires evaluation methods allowing to compare clinically meaningful groups of patients within different settings. In Poland, implementing such a universal system, which enables setting standards and further benchmarking, would be beneficial. This study is aimed at developing cross cultural adaptation and psychometric validation for a Polish translation of the Palliative Care Outcome Collaboration (PCOC) phases.
Methods
Forward and backward translation was performed to obtain a Polish draft version regarding definitions of the PCOC phases, which was then the subject of linguistic and graphical transformations in the process of cognitive interviewing. Polish version acceptability was examined as the level of the staff’s belief in the degree of fit, ease of assignments and familiarity of the patient & family’s situation. Finally, cross sectional analysis was conducted among 313 hospice and home-care palliative patients. The attending doctor and nurse independently evaluated the same patients using the Polish version of the PCOC phases to establish inter-rater reliability values. Then, to determine its construct validity, the PCOC indicators were referred to patients’ prognosis, functioning level and PALCOM scale scores.
Results
A Polish draft version of the PCOC phases was prepared. Seven of the 13 interviewed persons reported problems with comprehending this proposal, which caused changes in linguistic and graphical aspects of the tool. The majority of respondents preferred the final graphical scheme of phases, prepared after round-two of interviews. Scheme application acceptability was confirmed in a practical trial. The respondents’ overall conviction regarding degree of fit and assignment ease were high. Seventy percent of PCOC phases assignments were in agreement, and a moderate level or inter-rater reliability was obtained (kappa 0.573). The highest proportion of totally bed-bound patients with the shortest survival prognosis were observed for the terminal phase, while the highest complexity of palliative care needs were noted for the unstable one.
Conclusions
The PCOC phases tool seems to be a valuable concept for specialists of palliative care settings in audit measures. Training in practical use would be advisablebefore implementing it in routine practice.
A Green, Versatile, and Facile Strategy for Anti-biofouling Surface with Ultra-high Graft Density Polyethylene Glycol
Authors: Liu Wenjie , He Suqin , Liu Hao , Shou Zeyu , Huo Kaiyuan , Xiang Hongping , Feng Aihan , Lu Wei , Li Na 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Implantable catheters are susceptible to severe complications due to non-specific protein adhesion on their surfaces. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) coatings, the gold standard for resistance to non-specific protein adhesion, present a challenge in achieving high-density grafting, which significantly restricts their use as anti-biofouling coatings. Herein, we exploited the strong interaction between polyphenols (PCs) and polycations (K6-PEG) to graft PEG onto the surface of PC-Cu (A network of metal polyphenols composed of proanthocyanidins and metal copper ions, with expectation for the coating with excellent resistance to non-specific protein adhesion (PC-Cu@K6-PEG). The introduction of K6-PEG resulted in enhanced stability and modulus of PC-Cu, as well as a reduction in the surface adhesion energy and contact angle of PC-Cu. In contrast to previously reported PEG coatings, PC-Cu@K6-PEG exhibited a markedly elevated grafting density of PEG (4.06 chains/nm²), which was more than double the highest value previously documented (1.9 chains/nm²), due to the diffusing ability of K6-PEG throughout the PC-Cu networks. PC-Cu@K6-PEG displays robust resistance to a variety of proteins, microbials, and platelet attachment, thereby preventing thrombosis. The coating ability of PC-Cu onto diverse substrates, coupled with the simple, straightforward and environmentally benign process of fabricating PC-Cu@K6-PEG, suggests that this strategy has significant potential for use in anti-biofouling surfaces.
Full-Endoscopic Transforaminal Decompression with Modified Reaming Technique on Lateral Recess Stenosis: Outcomes of 155 Cases and Five Years’ Experience. A Case Series Study
Authors: Chung Yu-Hsuan , Su Hong-Lin , Li Chun-Yi , Hu Ming-Hsien 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective:
Lateral recess stenosis (LRS) is a degenerative condition which caused by bulging disc, hyperplasia of superior articular process and hypertrophy of ligament flavum. The advancement of transforaminal endoscopic lumbar approaches provides effective treatment not only for migrated herniation but also for stenosis. We outlined a modified non-sequential foraminoplasty technique utilizing a trephine, and conducted a comprehensive review of our cases to demonstrate safety and efficacy of the procedure.
Methods:
Patients with lumbar radiculopathy refractory to conservative treatment, diagnosed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diagnostic root blocks, and underwent full endoscopic transforaminal decompression with the modified non-sequential foraminoplasty technique between April 2017 to September 2022 were included. Those with multiple level stenosis, previous surgery at the same level, unstable spondylolisthesis, lumbar herniated disc without stenosis, infection, fracture, or tumor were excluded. The study recorded the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Modified Macnab criteria, as well as intra- and postoperative complications.
Results:.
155 patients were included in the study. Clinical and postoperative outcomes revealed significantly lower back and leg visual analog scale scores, as well as Oswestry Disability Index scores at various postoperative time points compared to preoperative values (P < 0.01) At the final follow-up, the modified MacNab criteria were rated as follows: excellent in 65 patients (41.9%), good in 60 patients (38.7%), fair in 2 patients (1.2%), and poor in 28 patients (18.0%).
Conclusions:
Full endoscopic transforaminal decompression using modified non-sequential foraminoplasty technique is an effective and safe treatment for lumbar lateral recess stenosis.
A cross-sectional survey to assess breast cancer survivors’ knowledge about lymphedema risk, prevention, and management
Authors: Klugman Madelyn , Tringale Kathryn R. , Patil Sujata , Montagna Giacomo , Finik Jackie , Kuo Ting-Ting , Eberle Carolyn , Pinkhasov Alexandr , Gillis Theresa , Gany Francesca , Blinder Victoria 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background Lymphedema is a common problem that adversely impacts quality of life in breast cancer survivors. Although lymphedema risk is modifiable through behavior change, there is no standardized approach to educate survivors about risk-lowering strategies. Furthermore, misconceptions about lymphedema risk factors and risk-lowering strategies are common. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of lymphedema therapy referral on knowledge about lymphedema risk.Methods This was a cross-sectional single institution study in which breast cancer survivors at a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center completed an anonymous questionnaire between 2014 and 2015. Eligibility criteria were age ≥ 18, female sex, English-speaking, > 6 months post definitive breast cancer surgery, no cancer recurrence, and no prior or subsequent second cancer. The questionnaire included sociodemographic variables, clinical factors including prior lymphedema therapy referral, and 10 true/false questions assessing knowledge about lymphedema risk. Multivariable logistic regression analyses assessed the relationship between prior lymphedema therapy referral and correctly answering questions about lymphedema risk.Results Of 209 participants, 53 (25%) had been referred to lymphedema therapy. Those who had undergone sentinel lymph node biopsy were less frequently referred to lymphedema therapy [15 (14%)] than those who had undergone axillary lymph node dissection [38 (39%)]. Five of the true/false questions had a correct response rate of < 80%. After controlling for age, race/ethnicity, education, type of axillary surgery, and receipt of radiation therapy, referral for lymphedema therapy was associated with correctly answering two questions about lymphedema risk: weight gain increases lymphedema risk [odds ratio, 95% confidence interval: 3.63 (1.66–7.96)] and exercising the arm on an airplane decreases risk [2.65 (1.15–6.13)].Conclusions Misconceptions about lymphedema prevention and management are common among breast cancer survivors. Lymphedema therapy referral is a potential opportunity to debunk misunderstandings and educate at-risk patients regarding lymphedema.Trial registration N/A
Mental Health and Post-Pandemic: Anxiety, Depression, and Social Support in the Adult Population of Argentina in the Post-COVID Era
Authors: Sosa Julieta Mariel , López-Morales Hernán , del-Valle Macarena Verónica , López Marcela Carolina , Canet-Juric Lorena , Urquijo Sebastián 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purposes
Studies report significant increases in anxiety during the pandemic. In Argentina, after thirteen months of the pandemic being declared, significant increases in anxiety and depression indicators were still being recorded. Considering that there is evidence about the relationship between perceived social support and mental health, this factor could mediate the relationship between negative pandemic experiences, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, the testing of two mediation models is proposed: one between negative experiences of the pandemic and depression, mediated by social support, and another for the relationship between these experiences and anxiety, also mediated by social support.
Methodology: The sample consisted of 664 adults from different cities in Argentina. The Pandemic Impact Questionnaire CAIR (C-PIQ), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-2), and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) were administered.
Results: Two mediation models were tested, which reported that negative pandemic experiences were indirectly associated with anxiety and depression through social support, which functioned as a mediating variable.
Conclusions: This empirical investigation contributes to the evidence of the potential buffering effect of social support on depressive symptoms and anxiety. Findings of this kind highlight the potential of social support to be considered in the framework of assistance and prevention interventions.
Comparison of the effect of simultaneous administration of magnesium sulfate and indomethacin with the administration of magnesium sulfate alone in inhibiting premature birth.
Authors: Dadashaliha Masoumeh , Hoorshad Shiva , Fallah Somayeh 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Premature birth is one of the most significant complications observed in pregnancies, which can lead to consequences such as preterm birth and its associated complications. The aim of this research is to compare the effectiveness of tocolytics with magnesium sulphate alone and the combination of magnesium sulphate and indomethacin in preventing premature birth at Kowsar Hospital in 2019-2020.
Materials and Methods: This clinical trial was conducted on 200 pregnant women with gestational age of 24 to 32 weeks referred to Kowsar Hospital in Qazvin; Iran. Patients were divided into two equal groups, receiving treatment with magnesium sulphate and indomethacin (Group A) and magnesium sulphate alone (Group B). Then, the data were analysed using SPSS statistical software and appropriate statistical tests.
Results: According to the research findings, the mean time interval from drug administration to delivery in Group A was 505.91 ± 774.71 hours, and in Group B, it was 545.77 ± 503.32 hours, with this difference being statistically significant (p < 0.05). Additionally, the mean gestational age at the time of delivery in Group A was 35.30 ± 2.50 weeks and in Group B was 35.03 ± 2.65 weeks, with no significant difference (p > 0.05). On the other hand, the type of intervention had a significant relationship with the number of deliveries within 7 days after starting drug administration (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: The results indicate a greater impact of tocolytics with the combination of magnesium sulphate and indomethacin compared to magnesium sulphate alone in preventing premature birth and delaying it. There were similarities in our study findings compared to other studies.
Trial registration: This clinical study was approved by the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (http://www.irct.ir) with the with the IRCT ID: IRCT20190819044568N1, Registration date was 2020-05-08 .