bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Active Cycle of Breathing Technique With Threshold Imt Device on Functional Capacity Among Bronchial Asthma Patients
Authors: R Janani , J Saravan Kumar 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

AIM:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of utilizing the active cycle of breathing technique (ACBT) with the threshold IMT device on functional capacity among bronchial asthma patients.
BACKGROUND:
Bronchial asthma is defined as a respiratory infection that causes inflammatory conditions in the bronchi that make breathing difficult. An epidemiological rate of 80% of bronchial asthma cases are affected in children and adults. The major causes of bronchial asthma are environmental factors, tobacco smoke or genetics. The clinical manifestations are breathlessness, wheezing, cough, and chest tightness. In bronchial asthma, breathing exercises and chest physiotherapy technique were found to be effective in improving the symptoms. However, an active cycle of breathing technique with a threshold IMT device on functional capacity effectively improved bronchial asthma.
METHODOLOGY:
A group of 30 participants was chosen through a convenient sampling technique, following specific criteria for inclusion and exclusion. The subjects who underwent ACBT with a threshold IMT device in both groups were trained with the protocol for 30mins 7 days per week for 12 weeks. The Study consent was obtained from the patients. The 6MWT is used as an assessment tool for evaluating outcomes.
RESULTS:
The values were statistically analysed using paired “t” test. The statistical analysis of the 6-minute walk test post-test indicated a significant improvement in the treatment group (p < 0.0001) after each week of ACBT with the threshold IMT.
CONCLUSION:
According to the study, ACBT with a threshold IMT device has proven to be effective at improving functional capacity.
Synergic effects of biochar modifier and iron nanoparticles on bioremediation of gasoil
Authors: Shamloo Fatemeh , Ebrahimi Soheila , Charati Faramarz Rostami 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Bioremediation of petroleum-polluted soils is deemed nowadays extremely to remedy the soils polluted by petroleum hydrocarbons. In the study synergic impacts of two amendments included biochar and iron nanoparticles were assessed to monitor the natural polluted soil by gasoil. Contaminated soil samples were collected in a polluted site in southern Iran by gasoil about 3 mg kg− 1 of soil. Soil samples were treated with 0, 1, 5 and 10% by weight of biochar and 0, 2 and 10 g kg− 1 synthetized iron nanoparticles under the incubation at 28 ± 2°C and 70% field capacity moisture for 35 days. The samples were analyzed to measure total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) and microbial respiration rate. According to the results, the first order kinetic model fitted well with an R2 value of 0.934–0.98 for the soils treated with different levels of biochar and nanoparticles. A significant and positive correlation (r = 0.774, P < 0.01) derived from a polynomial equation was observed between cumulative respiration rate and change percentage of gasoil during biodegradation (ΔTPH). Increasing of biodegradation because of higher biochar is mainly related to improvement of circumstance for higher microbial activity, while inhibition effects of iron nanoparticles on decreasing microbial activities in 10 g kg− 1 is related to toxicity of nanoparticles on microbes. After 35 days of incubation, the highest ΔTPH was observed for 10% biochar and 2 g kg− 1 iron nanoparticles, as well this treatment showed that the greatest constant of degradation (K = 0.0628) and lowest half-life (t1/2=11.3 days). In overall, the results showed that combined remediation strategies profoundly improve the bioremediation rate by indigenous microorganisms and further studies needs to evaluate different level of iron nanoparticles or even in combined with other remediation technologies.
Chemotherapy-free treatment of VAF induces early and deep molecular response in patients with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a prospective, single-center, single-arm, phase 2 trial
Authors: Li Mengyun , Cui Qingya , Qiu Huiying , Liu Lingling , Fu Jianxin , Li Zheng , Chen Sifan , Yu Yan , Cen Jiannong , Sheng Hongjie , Pan Jinlan , Zhu Mingqing , Zhu Xiaming , Wang Ying , Chen Suning , Wu Depei , Tang Xiaowen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background

Preclinical studies suggest that venetoclax and azacitidine have anti-leukemic activity in Philadelphia Chromosome-Positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ALL) and may synergize with TKIs. Accordingly, we performed a prospectively trial to investigate the efficacy and safety of the combination of venetoclax, azacitidine and flumatinib (VAF) in newly diagnosed adult patients with Ph+ALL.
Methods
Patients aged 18-65 years with a confirmed diagnosis of newly diagnosed Ph+ALL were eligible for inclusion in this investigator-initiated, single-center, single arm, phase 2 trail. The primary endpoint was complete molecular response (CMR) rate after two cycles of VAF. Secondary end points included adverse events (AEs), overall survival (OS), relapse-free survival (RFS), and cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR).
Results
Twenty patients were enrolled. 18 (94.7%) patients had major molecular response (MMR) or better after two cycles of VAF, and the CMR rate was 78.9%. Meanwhile, VAF was well tolerated with mild myelosuppression and rapid recovery of hemopoiesis. Common hematologic AEs ≥grade 3 were neutropenia (9 [45%]), thrombocytopenia (4 [20%]), anemia (3 [15%]) in cycle 1. The median time for thrombocytopenia, anaemia and neutropenia recovery were 2, 2.5 and 4 days, respectively. Patients received the second cycle of VAF in Day ward, except 2 (11%) were hospitalized for pneumonia and transfusion supports. With a median follow-up of 15.9 months (range 8.9-22.8 months), the estimated 2-year OS, RFS, and CIR were 88.7%, 77.5% and 22.5%, respectively.
Conclusion
The chemotherapy-free combination of venetoclax, azacitidine and flumatinib induced rapid and deep responses in newly diagnosed adult patients with Ph+ALL. In addition, VAF may also provide a Day-Clinic treatment modality for induction and early consolidation in Ph+ALL patients due to its well-tolerance.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05433532.
Spatiotemporal distribution and ecological factors of brucellosis among children from 2016 to 2020 in Inner Mongolia, China Short Title： Epidemiological characteristics of brucellosis in children
Authors: Wang Yideng , Zheng Huiqiu , Wang Yanling , Wang Xinyan , Wang Xuemei 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective: In recent years, the increasing incidence of brucellosis in children has become more serious in recent years, however, relatively few studies have been conducted to characterize the spatialtemporal distribution of brucellosis in children. This study aimed to analyze the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics and ecological influencing factors of brucellosis incidence among children in Inner Mongolia.
Methods: Using reported incidence data for brucellosis in children aged 0-14 years in Inner Mongolia from 2016 to 2020, the spatiotemporal distribution of childhood brucellosis through Bayesian model and a geographically-weighted regression model was used to analyze ecological factors affecting brucellosis incidence in children.
Result: Bayesian spatiotemporal analysis indicated that the highest brucellosis risk and increased disease incidence were observed in Hinggan, Inner Mongolia,in children aged 0-14 years. Alxa had the lowest risk but the incidence rate increased rapidly. The incidence of childhood brucellosis was positively associated with the number of sheep at the year-end (β: 2.590940~ 2.592615, P<0.01), average temperature (β: 2.897817~ 2.902964, P<0.05), and precipitation level (β: 3.326089~ 3.326833, P<0.01).
Conclusion: Brucellosis in children needs urgent attention. From 2016 to 2020, the overall incidence of brucellosis in children in Inner Mongolia showed an upward trend, with cases exhibiting spatial aggregation. While we are concerned about areas at high risk of brucellosis in children, we should also be concerned about areas where the incidence is rising fast. The number of sheep at the end of the year, average temperature, and precipitation were ecological factors that affected the incidence of childhood brucellosis.
Clinical Characteristics, Risk Factors, and Management Strategies of Postoperative Recurrence in Thoracolumbar Tuberculosis
Authors: Liang Lichuan , Zhao Chen , Luo Lei , Liu Liehua , Li Pei , Zhou Qiang 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
To investigate the clinical characteristics and identify risk factors of postoperative recurrence in thoracolumbar tuberculosis, aiming to assess clinical significance and propose management strategies.
Methods
Retrospective review of 69 patients' medical records with postoperative recurrence of thoracolumbar tuberculosis from 2006 to 2019, including demographics, clinical presentations, radiographic data, drug susceptibility, laboratory results, and recurrence patterns.
Results
The study included 40 males and 29 females, with a mean age of 36.1 ± 14.2 years at initial surgery and 37.5 ± 14.5 years at recurrence. Manifestations included pain (55.1%), sinus tracts (47.8%), and neurological deficits (37.7%). Radiographic assessments showed paravertebral (89.9%) and flowing abscesses (37.7%). Drug resistance was present in 41.5% of cases. Inflammatory markers were elevated in most patients, with anemia and hypoalbuminemia frequently observed. Most recurrences occurred within 24 months post-surgery, with a maximum interval of 84 months, and 37.7% had multiple recurrences.
Conclusion
Postoperative recurrence in thoracolumbar tuberculosis is multifactorial, linked to drug-resistant tuberculosis, inconsistent medication adherence, poor nutrition, inadequate immobilization, and systemic tuberculosis infections. Optimal postoperative surveillance and clinical management necessitate a focus on inflammatory markers, advanced imaging, diligent patient education, and rigorous follow-up to diminish recurrence rates and enhance patient outcomes.
Phytoplankton variable stoichiometry modifies key biogeochemical fluxes and the functioning of the ocean biological pump
Authors: Wiseman Nicola , Moore Jefferson Keith , Martiny Adam , Letscher Robert 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Ocean biota take up carbon in surface waters and export some of it to the ocean interior (the biological pump), modifying surface carbon concentrations, air-sea CO2 exchange, and thus, Earth's climate. The growth of marine phytoplankton is often limited by one of several key nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, iron, silicon), and the efficiency of carbon export is constrained by nutrient availability, and the nutrient/carbon ratios in the biota (stoichiometry). Recent field observations suggest widespread variability in phytoplankton stoichiometry (C/N/P/Fe/Si). We show that accounting for phytoplankton dynamic stoichiometry dramatically shifts the magnitude and spatial patterns of carbon export by the biological pump, relative to a model with fixed ratios. Not accounting for dynamic stoichiometry also leads to increases in atmospheric CO2, thereby underestimating the ocean carbon inventory. Thus, Earth System Models (ESMs) must account for dynamic plankton stoichiometry to make accurate projections of the carbon cycle and climate. Further research is needed to better constrain environmental controls on the stoichiometry of exported organic matter, particularly ecosystem-level processing of organic matter initially produced by the phytoplankton.
The complete mitochondrion genome of Colpomenia sinuosa and phylogenetic analysis
Authors: Fu Y iwen , Miao Jinlai , Zhang Yuanyuan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Colpomenia sinuosa plays an important role in marine ecosystem and biological resource utilization. The total length of mitochondrion genome was 39,055 bp in length and consists of a circular DNA molecule. The circular genome is composed of 66 genes, including 38 protein coding genes, 25 tRNA genes, and 3 rRNA genes.The total content of G + C is 32.01%, lower than that of A + T. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the position of C. sinuosa within Pleurocladia lacustris, which offer valuable insights into the phylogeny and gene functions within the family Stramenopiles and promote novel references for the genetic and phylogenetic research of C. sinuosa through the provision of these data.
Assessment of Implementation of Weekly Multidisciplinary Team Decisions for Pediatrics Solid Tumor Patients at SPHMMC, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: 1year &amp;8 month review
Authors: Hailu Tadele , Abebe Abeba Mengesha , Dinkiye Mamude 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Multidisciplinary team (MDT) is recognized as the best practice in the treatment planning and care for patients with cancer. MDT provides a comprehensive care for pediatric cancer patients that results in reduced treatment delays, improved care processes, improved treatment outcome, higher adherence to guidelines and enhanced support for both patients and their families. Here, we assess the implementation of MDT decision in SPHMMC for pediatrics solid Tumor patients and identify barriers to its effective implementation and provide valuable inputs that help to increase the Effectiveness of the implementation made.
Methods
institution based cross sectional study was conducted among patients discussed on MDT from April 2022 to December 2023. Data was collected using Data abstraction sheet from MDT format followed by review of medical records. Descriptive analysis was used to describe the percentages and number distributions of the variables in the study.
Result
A total of 148 MDT cases were included in the study. The average age of presentation was 3.7 years & most came from oromia region, followed by Addis Ababa. Retinoblastoma was the most commonly discussed cancer, followed by Wilms tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, germ cell tumors and Hodkins lymphoma. 113 (76.3%) of the cases were discussed for the first time & 212 distinct management decisions were reached, of which 156(73.6%) were subsequently implemented. Decisions on follow up and palliative care followed by chemotherapy, EUA, surgery and Consults/ communications to other departments were most likely to be successfully enacted. Imaging, pathology testing & refer recommendations were less likely to be carried out. Absence of modality for the implementation of MDT decision made in the current set up is the major reason for non implemented MDT decisions, followed by illness and financial reasons. Timely implementation of MDT decisions was made for chemotherapy, Pathologic testing, EUA and consultation to other departments. Surgical decisions and cystoscopic biopsy took longer duration for implementation.
Conclusions
MDT discussions are the standard of care for patients with cancer worldwide. Adaptation of MDT discussions as a routine of care for pediatrics solid tumor patients is a major step up for improving the quality of care given in SPHMMC. All cancan centers in the country should also incorporate this standard of care into their practice. The success of the MDT discussion can further be augmented by increasing the accessibility of important modalities of diagnosis & treatment as genetic testing, intraarterial chemotherapy & radiotherapy respectively. Raising Public awareness on the benefits of community based health insurance will also help in relieving the financial burden and increase effectiveness of care given.
Utilizing Multimodal Satellite Imagery for Enhanced Mangrove Species Classification by using Label Distribution Learning
Authors: Felegari Shilan , Moravej Kamran , Sharifi Alireza , Dansh-Yazdi Mohammad 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems, situated in the intertidal zones of the sea, harbor a rich diversity of plant and animal species that thrive in coastal and lagoon environments. This study aims to enhance our comprehension of the intricacies within Qeshm Island's mangrove forests, located in southern Iran, through an analysis of data collected from Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and optical sensors. Employing label distribution learning (LDL), a machine learning approach, this research endeavors to delineate and classify various mangrove forest types in the region. Leveraging Sentinel-1 dual-polarimetric SAR and Sentinel-2 multispectral imagery, the study evaluates six LDL algorithms, including PT-Bayes, PT-SVMs, AA-KNN, AA-BPNN, SA-IIS, and SA-BFGS, to ascertain their accuracy in classifying both pure and mixed classes. Results highlight the robust performance of LDL classification, particularly in areas exhibiting diverse species compositions, with SA-BFGS emerging as the most effective algorithm. These findings offer valuable insights into the identification of distinct mangrove communities based on their spectral and polarimetric characteristics, thereby aiding in the strategic management and conservation of these vital ecosystems.
A novel Self-Biased pMOS Clamped Deep Trench CSTBT with Enhanced Short-Circuit Capability
Authors: Guo Jianbin , Qian Zhehong , Chen Xinru , Xu Hang , Yang Yafen , Zhang David Wei 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

In this work, a novel deep trench CSTBT (DT-CSTBT) features emitter trench and the P-layer is proposed and investigated by simulation. The self-biased pMOS, comprising an emitter trench, N-CS layer, P-layer, and P-well, demonstrates an excellent clamping effect potential. The proposed DT-CSTBT suppresses the saturation current under the clamping effect, resulting in a 23.5% expansion of the short-circuit safe operating area (SCSOA). It ensures the better reliability of the gate due to the high electric field away from the gate. Furthermore, the tradeoff relationship between on-state voltage (Von) and turn-off loss (Eoff) of the new structure is also improved by 23.2% compared with the conventional CSTBT.
Protein Level Ratios as Causal Factors in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Insights from a Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Zhou Jie , Xu Yixin , Wang Haitao , Wang Kun , Chen Chao 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) currently lacks effective biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The study of protein level ratios may offer new insights for addressing this challenge.
Methods
The summary statistics for PSC in this study was sourced from the International PSC Study Group, encompassing 2,871 PSC patients and 12,019 control participants. Protein quantitative trait loci data were sourced from the Olink proteomics platform, facilitating the identification of 2,821 significant protein level ratios. Furthermore, we conducted a Mendelian Randomization analysis to explore the causal relationship between the two factors, applying a stringent Bonferroni correction threshold of 1.77E-5. The primary analytical method employed was the Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW) approach, which was further reinforced by comprehensive heterogeneity analyses, horizontal pleiotropy testing, outlier detection, and “leave-one-out” sensitivity analysis.
Results
We identified a positive causal association between the protein level ratios of Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein 11/ Nectin Cell Adhesion Molecule 2 (IVW odds ratio (OR): 1.84; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.40–2.41, P = 1.07E-05) and Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily Member 13B/ Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily Member 9 (IVW OR: 2.72, 95% CI: 1.77–4.19, P = 5.56E-06) and the risk of PSC. Conversely, the protein level ratios of Lymphotoxin Alpha/ Lymphotoxin Beta Receptor (IVW OR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.43–0.58, P = 7.58E-20) and Nectin Cell Adhesion Molecule 2/ Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily Member 14 (IVW OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.44–0.69, P = 2.17E-07) were found to have an inverse causal relationship with the risk of PSC. Significantly, all analyses demonstrated a lack of horizontal pleiotropy and heterogeneity.
Conclusion
These results identify potential new biomarkers for PSC diagnosis and suggest targets for treatment, laying the groundwork for future drug development.
Development and Initial Validation of the Health-Related Quality of Life Pictorial Inventory for Children (HEALTH-PIC)
Authors: Tang Tracy Chor Wai , Wong Mun , Li Jianbin , Chan Derwin King Chung 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
This 3-study paper aimed to develop and validate a self-reported health-related quality of life pictorial inventory for early childhood children. The scale was designed to overcome existing barriers of parent-proxy response styles and offers an alternative to age-suited literary questionnaires to assess self-reported health-related quality of life, including physical health, emotional health, social health and school health in early childhood.
Methods
Following an established protocol in the literature of pictorial scales, this 3-study paper leads to the development and validation of the Health-related Quality of Life Pictorial Inventory for Children (HEALTH-PIC). Study 1 involved item development/revision, which utilized a panel of 10 experts and 25 parents via the Delphi method to revise the scale and establish agreement. Study 2 invited a sample of 22 primary school students and 20 kindergarten students to establish face validity amongst primary respondents. Finally, Study 3 invited 342 parent and child dyads to complete the HEALTH-PIC and reference health-related quality of life (HRQoL) questionnaires to establish the questionnaire’s factorial, concurrent, discriminant and criterion validity in addition to internal consistency.
Results
In Study 1, scale items were developed alongside experts and parents with a strong theoretical and statistical support, ensuring that the items were clear, accurate and applicable for children (Aiken’s V p < .05). In Study 2, we ensured that primary respondents of different ages (kindergarten and primary school children) were able to accurately identify the pictorial images (Aiken’s V p < .05) and complete the questionnaire when the scripted instructions were read aloud. In Study 3, structural equation modelling of the HEALTH-PIC demonstrated a robust factor structure (CFI and TLI > .99; RMSEA and SRMR ≤ .08), concurrent validity (p < .001), discriminant validity (AVE < shared variance), criterion validity (p < .001) and an acceptable level of internal consistency (i.e., Cronbach’s α = .60 − .66).
Conclusion
Overall, the findings of the three studies provide preliminary evidence to support the content validity and construct validity of the HEALTH-PIC. This novel pictorial scale not only provides a reliable and valid assessment of the multidimensional aspects of health-related quality of life among children but can also overcome existing barriers of parent-proxy or age-suited questionnaires.