bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of Undercorrection With Residual Proinflammatory Gene Expressions and Clinical Outcomes After Medial Open Wedge Proximal Tibial Osteotomy
Authors: Yoshida Shigeo , Nishitani Kohei , Kuriyama Shinichi , Nakamura Shinichiro , Fujii Takayuki , Kobori Yu , Murata Koichi , Yoshitomi Hiroyuki , Matsuda Shuichi 
Published: September 2024

Background: Accumulating evidence suggests that synovial inflammation plays a pivotal role in knee osteoarthritis. Although biomechanical findings have shown that medial open-wedge proximal tibial osteotomy (OWPTO) decreases medial compartment loading by correcting knee alignment, the relationship between knee alignment and synovial inflammation in the biological microenvironment has not yet been elucidated. Purposes: To investigate the relationship between preoperative and postoperative knee alignment and synovial gene expression and to determine the cutoff point of postoperative knee alignment at which gene expression of synovial inflammation improves. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A total of 36 patients with osteoarthritis who underwent OWPTO between June 2018 and May 2020 were enrolled. Synovial tissue was collected from affected knees during initial OWPTO and plate removal surgeries, and gene expression associated with the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis in the synovial tissue was investigated using real-time polymerase chain reaction. The correlation between weightbearing line ratio (WBLR) and synovial gene expression was determined. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine the cutoff values of WBLR for improving gene expression. The participants were divided into 2 groups, according to the cutoff values of their WBLR, and compared according to Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and synovial gene expression. Results: Postoperative WBLR was correlated with gene expression of interleukin 1β ( IL1B) (ρ = −0.43; P = .008) and of interleukin 6 ( IL6) (ρ = −0.41; P = .01). The cutoff value to predict improvement of IL6 was postoperative WBLR of 52%, with an area under the curve of 0.74 ( P = .03). Patients with WBLR of <52% showed higher postoperative inflammatory gene ( IL1B [ P = .04] and IL6 [ P = .03]) and inferior postoperative KOOS values compared with those with WBLR of >52%. Conclusion: The novel cutoff alignment for biological improvement after OWPTO in patients with medial compartment osteoarthritis was determined to be WBLR of 52%, and WBLR of <52% was associated with higher residual intra-articular inflammation and poor clinical outcomes. After accounting for surgical errors, the surgeon should set the target surgical alignment so that the postoperative WBLR does not fall below 52%.
Treatment adherence and quality of life in colombian patients with lupus nephritis
Authors: Domínguez-Vargas Alex , González-Torres Henry , Martínez-Bayona Álvaro , Sanguino-Jaramillo María , Vélez-Verbel María , Cadena-Bonfanti Andrés , Musso Carlos Guido , Depine Santos , Egea Eduardo , Aroca-Martínez Gustavo 
Published: September 2024

Background As with many other chronic diseases, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN) have significant impacts on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Medication non-adherence is a significant challenge in the management of SLE, with consistently up to 75% of patients being non-adherent with their SLE medications. There is a need to assess the patient’s perspective using patient-reported outcomes (PROs) to better understand the current impact of LN on HRQoL and treatment adherence in our region. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between HRQoL and treatment adherence in patients with LN from the Colombian Caribbean. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from June to December 2022, including patients with biopsy-proven LN. HRQoL and treatment adherence were assessed using the Lupus Quality of Life (LupusQoL) and the Compliance Questionnaire in Rheumatology 19 (CQR19) instruments, respectively. Patients were categorized as adherent or non-adherent based on medication intake (defined as >80% correct dosage). Principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to identify principal components between adherent and non-adherent patients. Results A total of 42 patients with LN were included. Of these, 38 (90%) were female, and the mean age was 31 ± 10 years. Proliferative class IV was the predominant histopathological profile (90%). Twenty-five (60%) patients were categorized as non-adherent. Across all LupusQoL domains, a comprehensive range of responses was observed. Pain, planning, and intimate relationships domains remained unaffected, while burden to others domain had the lowest score. Poorer planning score correlated with older age (r = −0.72; p < .05) and longer disease duration (r = −0.74; p < .05). SLEDAI-2 K correlated with the pain domain (r = −0.78; p < .05). Non-adherent patients exhibited significantly worse pain domain scores compared to adherent counterparts ( p < .05). PCA showed strong interactions between planning and pain, as well as between physical health and body image domains. Conclusions LupusQoL pain domain scores were significantly worse in non-adherent patients compared to adherent patients. Effective pain management could be a determinant in HRQoL and treatment adherence rates in our population.
Identification of common MicroRNAs expression signatures in antiphospholipid syndrome and thromboembolic disease: A scoping review
Authors: de Oliveira Vaz Camila , Cardoso Jacintho Bruna , de Mello Santos Gabrielle , de Oliveira José Diogo , Moraes Mazetto Bruna , Vieira Geraldo Murilo , Orsi Fernanda A 
Published: September 2024

Background Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired autoimmune disorder characterized by distinct pathophysiological mechanisms leading to heterogeneous manifestations, including venous and arterial thrombosis. Despite the lack of specific markers of thrombosis risk in APS, some of the mechanisms responsible for thrombosis in APS may overlap with those of other thromboembolic diseases. Understanding these similarities is important for improving the assessment of thrombosis risk in APS. MicroRNAs (MiRNAs) are RNA molecules that regulate gene expression and may influence the autoimmune response and coagulation. Purpose In this scoping review we aimed to investigate shared miRNAs profiles associated with APS and other thromboembolic diseases as a means of identifying markers indicative of a pro-thrombotic profile among patients with APS. Data collection and Results Through a comprehensive search of scientific databases, 45 relevant studies were identified out of 1020 references. miRs-124-3p, 125b-5p, 125a-5p, and 17-5p, were associated with APS and arterial thrombosis, while miRs-106a-5p, 146b-5p, 15a-5p, 222-3p, and 451a were associated with APS and venous thrombosis. Additionally, miR-126a-3p was associated with APS and both arterial and venous thrombosis. Conclusion We observed that APS shares a common miRNAs signature with non-APS related thrombosis, suggesting that miRNA expression profiles may serve as markers of thrombotic risk in APS. Further validation of a pro-thrombotic miRNA signature in APS is warranted to improve risk assessment, diagnosis, and management of APS.
Non-Pigmentary Applications of Aluminium Flakes
Authors: Wheeler Ian 
Published: September 2024

Aluminium flakes are best known as pigments for paints, inks and plastics. There are nevertheless many existing and potential applications in which these pigmentary properties are of lesser or even no relevance. In such applications, the properties of aluminium metal itself can be more important than the shape or size of the flakes. This paper considers non-pigmentary applications relevant to polymers. Some have already yielded commercially viable products. Others can be regarded as subjects for research and development. In total however, they should dispel the impression that aluminium flakes are only useful for their pigmentary properties.
Further Use of Lactone Chemistry to Improve the Performance Cost Profile of Traditional Antioxidant Stabilization Systems*
Authors: Kenny John 
Published: September 2024

All polyolefin-based plastics materials undergo oxidation reactions, which can occur at every stage in the life cycle of a polymer during manufacture and storage, as well as in processing and end use. Antioxidant systems protect polymers against oxidation by controlling the molecular weight changes that lead to a loss of physical, mechanical and optical properties. Traditional stabilizer systems for polyolefins are typically based on a combination of a phenolic antioxidant and a phosphorus based melt processing stabilizer. The phenolic antioxidant provides melt processing stability as a hydrogen atom donor and free radical scavenger, but is also incorporated to achieve some desired level ofthermal stability. The phosphorus-based melt processing stabilizer functions as a hydroperoxide decomposer during the melt compounding step. Recently, Ciba introduced a powerful new melt processing stabilizer based on lactone chemistry. The addition of this new chemistry to the traditional binary systems boosts the stabilization performance, while having a positive impact on the performancecost profile of the system. The benefits of the lactone chemistry are also seen when it is combined with high performance phosphorus-based processing stabilizers, and when it is used with phenolic antioxidants for specific end use applications. This paper presents performance data for traditional binary antioxidant systems, high performance phosphorus based systems, and phenolic antioxidants, when they are combined with the lactone. The paper also describes the performance of new polyol systems based on lactone technology. The data demonstrates the opportunity for an improvement in the performance cost profile of these systems when combined with lactone chemistry.
Criteria For, and Examples of Optimal Choice of Flame Retardants
Authors: Litzenburger Achim 
Published: September 2024

What would our lives be without plastics? Better or worse? The same question is valid for chemical compounds, especially fire-retardants, being added to polymers to enhance and tailor polymer properties. Within five main types of fire retardants a significant number of compounds serve one goal: improve resistance against fire! For decades, innumerable applications prove the universal utility of brominated fire-retardants. Today, cost optimization of final compounds is very often the main driving force to reduce fire safety or to use the cheapest flame retardant available. By referring to applications, this paper reflects the influence of different properties and suggests guidelines for optimal choice of fire retardants.
Cefepime-Enmetazobactam: A Drug Review of a Novel Beta-Lactam/Beta-Lactamase Inhibitor
Authors: Lanier Cameron , Melton Tyler , Covert Kelly 
Published: September 2024

Objective: To describe and analyze the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties and clinical evidence supporting the efficacy and use of cefepime-enmetazobactam (FEP-EMT). Data Sources: A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE and EMBASE databases (January 2015 to May 2024). Search terms included: “cefepime-enmetazobactam” or “cefepime” or “enmetazobactam” or “cefepime” or “novel beta-lactamase inhibitor” and “complicated urinary tract infection” or “cUTI.” Conference abstracts, bibliographies, clinical trials, and drug monographs were included for review. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Relevant studies in English and clinical trials conducted in humans were reviewed. Data Synthesis: In February 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the combination beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor (BL/BLI) FEP-EMT for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs) and acute pyelonephritis following the completion of the Phase III ALLIUM trial comparing it to piperacillin-tazobactam (TZP). The trial resulted in 79.1% of the FEP-EMT group versus 58.9% of the TZP group meeting the primary outcome of clinical cure and microbiological eradication (95% CI 21.2 [14.3 to 27.9]). Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice in Comparison to Existing Agents: This review describes the use of FEP-EMT for the treatment of cUTI and compares its use to other novel BL/BLI combinations including utility in drug-resistant infections. Conclusions: FEP-EMT provides an antimicrobial option to reduce overuse of carbapenems for extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Enterobacteriaceae. However, unlike other novel BL/BLI combinations, its limited spectrum of antibacterial effect for more difficult-to-treat pathogens and cost may also impact its overall utilization.
Performance of applications of Ophytrium-containing mousse with or without shampoo in cats with pruritic and irritated skin: a multicentre prospective field trial
Authors: Dropsy Hélène , De Jaeger Xavier , Cozar Alicia , Billy Charlotte , Bressolin Aude , Briand Amaury , Debraine Marion , Deschamps Véronique , Noli Chiara , Puozzo-Barichard Aude , Gatellet Marina 
Published: September 2024

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the performance of a protocol in which topical products (DOUXO S3 CALM Shampoo and Mousse; Ceva Santé Animale) containing Ophytrium were applied to cats to help manage feline atopic syndrome (FAS). Methods A total of 23 client-owned cats with a history of FAS and presenting irritated skin and pruritus were recruited for this study. The cats were either shampooed or moussed on day 0 (D0) and then moussed every 48–72 h for 3 weeks. On D0, D7 and D21, clinical signs were assessed using the validated scoring system, Scoring Feline Allergic Dermatitis (SCORFAD). Pruritus was graded by the owner using an adapted dual visual analogue scale (Pruritus Visual Analog Scale for Cats [VAScat]). Veterinarians also assessed pruritus intensity and frequency, and provided a subjective assessment of global skin condition and of improvements in each cat’s condition. On D21, all questionnaires were collected from both veterinarians and owners. Results Among the 19 cats that completed the study, the SCORFAD and VASmax (maximum value of VAScat, either scratching or licking) scores improved by ⩾50% in 63.2% and 38.9% of animals, respectively. Mean SCORFAD values decreased significantly between D0 and D21 (from 6.2 to 2.8, P <0.05). Similarly, mean VASmax values decreased significantly between D0 and D21 (from 7.4 to 4.3, P <0.05). Overall, veterinarians assessed the improvement as satisfactory, good or excellent in 18/19 (94.7%) cases. The protocol was considered efficient and practical by 18/19 (94.7%) and 19/19 (100%) owners, respectively, and the resulting good condition of skin and coat was emphasised by 15/19 (78.9%) owners. Conclusions and relevance This topical protocol with Ophytrium-containing mousse and shampoo was well tolerated. The products were effective in reducing skin irritation and discomfort quickly and significantly in cats with skin irritation and pruritus, yielding high satisfaction levels among both veterinarians and owners.
Efficacy of antimicrobial-impregnated catheters in preventing sepsis post epicutaneo-caval catheter (ECC) removal in neonates: A retrospective study
Authors: Al Khateeb Mohammad Ayman , Gad Ashraf , Mahmah Mohamad Adnan , Al Khzzam Fadi Abdulhay , Rivera Joy Ann Borromeo , van Rens Matheus 
Published: September 2024

Background: Epicutaneo-caval catheters (ECC) are vital in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in enabling prolonged venous access. Despite their benefits, central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) pose a potential risk. The ECC removal procedure may contribute to an increased risk of post removal sepsis through biofilm release. Antimicrobial-impregnated ECCs have been proposed as a potential solution to prevent this complication, but research on their effectiveness in neonates is limited. Objective: To compare post-ECC or neonatal peripherally inserted central catheter (n-PICCs) removal sepsis rates when using conventional or antimicrobial-impregnated catheters in neonates. Methods: A retrospective, single center cohort analysis using 2019 data from 421 neonates after successful ECC insertion at the Women’s W﻿ellness and R﻿esearch Center, a large tertiary level NICU in Qatar. The study systematically collected data on demographics, insertion, and removal as well as microbiology, and infection data. Statistical analyses compared conventional and antimicrobial ECCs, with a focus on the incidence of sepsis within 72 hr post-removal. Results: After excluding non-eligible, 349 cases were included in the analysis (138 conventional, 211 antimicrobial-impregnated). There were no significant demographic differences between the two groups. The CLABSI incidence was higher amongst the antimicrobial ECC group (4% vs 0.6%, p = 0.031). Among the included neonates, the confirmed post-removal sepsis incidence was 4.3% (6 cases) for the conventional and 10% (21 cases) for the antimicrobial ECC groups, which was not statistically significant ( p = 0.055). Conclusion: The study noted a higher, but statistically insignificant, incidence of post removal sepsis when using antimicrobial-impregnated ECCs. This finding raises questions about the effectiveness of antimicrobial ECCs in preventing post-removal sepsis in this patient population. Further randomized trials are needed to assess the role of antimicrobial ECCs amongst neonates and to refine neonatal ECC care strategies.
Integration of Psychological Services With Preventive Cardiology Consults: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Toole Joseph , Vartak Natasha , Vrany Elizabeth , Vaidean Georgeta , Goschin Simona , Kogan Jerome , Rosen Stacey , Gianos Eugenia 
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Psychological distress can have a significant impact on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and efforts to treat psychological distress may improve CVD risk factors. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective feasibility of implementation study to assess the utilization of short-term psychotherapy in patients engaged in a cardiovascular prevention program. Methods: Participants included patients engaged in the Women’s Health or Preventive Cardiology programs from January 2019 to June 2022. Patients were referred for psychology services if deemed likely to benefit from improvements in their psychological well-being to control their CVD risk factors. Biomarkers were obtained within 6 months pre- and post-therapy. Results: More than half (52.8%) of the 36 patients referred to the program attended ≥6 psychotherapy sessions. In patients with HTN, 50% were above goal (130/80 mmHg) pre-therapy and 20.8% post-therapy. 55.5% of patients with an LDL-C ≥100 mg/dL pre-therapy achieved an LDL-C <100 mg/dL post-therapy. Among patients with a hemoglobin A1c ≥5.7% pre-therapy, 12.5% lowered their hemoglobin A1c to <5.7%. Conclusion: Our study shows the potential benefit of psychological services when delivered concurrently with preventive cardiology visits. These findings raise the possibility that expanding access to psychology services in clinical cardiology care may be a model to reduce excess cardiovascular risk factor burdens.
Asthma as a child: continuous attentiveness to breathing to participate in everyday activities – need for support
Authors: Sundal Hildegunn 
Published: September 2024

Background: Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in childhood. Aims: This study explores the experiences of participating in everyday activities among children with asthma. Methods: The study employed a qualitative design and was grounded in a hermeneutic-phenomenological approach. The data were collected through in-depth interviews with four children aged 9–12 diagnosed with asthma. Results: One theme was ‘heavy breathing stopping the body in motion’, and subthemes were as follows: ‘experiencing intrusive wheezing’, ‘calming one’s breath to participate’ and ‘being sick and refraining from participating’. Another theme was ‘help in everyday life and support to participate’, and subthemes were as follows: ‘taking the necessary asthma medicine’, ‘being understood and met as sick’ and ‘adapting one’s leisure activities’. Conclusions: To participate in everyday activities, children with asthma require insight into and an understanding of the importance of taking asthma medicine as recommended. They also need help in everyday life and support to participate in everyday activities. Children taking care of their own illnesses and listening to their bodies provide them with the greatest degree of participation in activities in their everyday lives. These findings represent an important contribution to the understanding of nursing care for children with asthma.
Navigating antenatal care: The lived experiences of adolescent girls and young women and caregiver perspectives in Zambia
Authors: Young Alinda M. , Okpara Natasha , Chelwa Nachela , Mwape Mary , Kayawa Jessy , Nkwengele Nchimunya , Mabai Cecilia , Nyblade Laura , Mbizvo Michael , Subramanian Sujha 
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Adolescent pregnancy remains a global concern, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Sub-Saharan African nations, including Zambia, bear a disproportionate burden of adolescent pregnancies, contributing to high rates of maternal and child mortality. Despite efforts to improve antenatal care (ANC) services, utilization rates remain suboptimal, especially among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). Objective: To explore the barriers and facilitators to ANC services among AGYW and how these factors might differ by age and HIV status. Design: This qualitative study employs a combination of in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) to gather comprehensive insights into the experiences of AGYW regarding ANC services. The study design follows a socio-ecological framework (SEF) to identify multiple levels of influence on ANC utilization. Methods: We conducted 40 IDIs with AGYW aged 15–24; and 2 FGDs with caregivers of AGYW ( n = 16). IDIs explored AGYWs barriers and facilitators to accessing and utilizing healthcare services during pregnancy, as well as social support and HIV treatment and prevention. FGD topics included social support, barriers and facilitators to ANC, and HIV services. We developed a codebook based on the SEF and coded transcripts using Dedoose software. Results: Results showed that early pregnancy knowledge did not always translate to AGYW seeking ANC services right away or within the first trimester. More than half of the AGYW did not initiate ANC until well into the second trimester. Factors including lack of motivation, denial of pregnancy, desires to terminate pregnancies, social norms, policies, clinic environment, and financial constraints contributed to delays in ANC initiation. Social support from family, partners, peers, and the community were crucial motivators for early ANC. Lastly, challenges to ANC continuation included lack of transportation, long clinic waiting times, perceived provider indifference, and stigma at both community and clinic levels. Conclusion: In conclusion, gaining insights from qualitative data is essential for comprehensively understanding the barriers and challenges to accessing ANC among this specific age group. By identifying and addressing these barriers while enhancing facilitators, effective programs can be developed and implemented to improve the health and well-being of young mothers and their children.