bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association between physical activity and pulmonary function among middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Lim Jae Hyeok , Jang Yun Seo , Kim Dan Bi , Park Eun-Cheol , Jang Sung-In 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective: Regular physical activity has several health benefits, and it is critical to investigate whether it also has advantages in pulmonary function for the general population. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the association between regular physical activity and the decline in pulmonary function among middle-aged and older South Korean population.
Methods: Data from 2014 to 2019 of Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed. Physical activity was measured using Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, and it was defined as sufficiently active groups and performing more than 2 days per week of muscle-strengthening exercisesaccording to guidelines. Pulmonary function was measured based on spirometry results. Using multiple logistic regression analyses, adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated.
Results: Of the 16,014 population over the age of 40, 7,177 were male and 8,837 were female participants, with 36.3% male and15.8% of female having pulmonary functional defects. After adjusting all covariates, the male population who performed physical activity had significantly lower likelihoods of pulmonary function defect (OR: 0.86, CI: 0.75–0.97) than inactivity group. This association was prominent in recreation-related and muscle-strengthening activity. However, the results of female population were not significant (OR: 1.04, CI: 0.88–1.23).
Conclusions:Engaging in physical activity were associated with lower likelihoods of pulmonary dysfunction in male population. Regular physical activities might be recommended for improved pulmonary function in this group, with more emphasis on recreation-related, muscle strengthening activities.
Investigating Coaggregation Between Human Intestinal and Oral Bacteria: Effects on the Structure and Stability of the Microbiota
Authors: Mohammed Waleed K. , Warwar Abdul Nasser H , johan Younus. H. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Coaggregation is a process that occurs when different types of bacteria bind to each other, an important step in biofilm formation, especially in dental bacteria. It is important to note that there is a shortage of equipment available for accurately measuring and quantifying the distribution of various cell types in either coaggregates or biofilm. Therefore, this project aims to look at the interactions between different types of oral and intestinal bacteria during assembly. The coaggregation of oral bacteria was investigated by standardized methods, indicating a high synergistic effect in species such as Actinomyces oris, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Streptococcus gordonii. The results indicated adsorption about themselves more and like to form groups when interact to each other. Overall and according to the findings, the coaggregation between oral strains was more significant than coaggregation between oral and intestinal strains. to investigate coaggregation between oral and intestinal bacteria a variety of imaging techniques have been used to enable visualisation of the detailed structure of co-aggregates among bacteria that are include, fluorescence labelling and confocal scanning laser microscopy (CLSM) techniques. New insights of the three-dimensional structure of the coaggregate was established, allowing researchers insight into the bacteria within the coaggregate of spatial planning. Notably, this study contributes to the understanding of bacterial interactions in the oral and gut environments, with consequences for dental plaque and disease further in-depth studies will need to be explored.
High platelet - lymphocyte ratio may predict poor therapeutic response in breast cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Wang Wei , Chen Hao , Zhao Ruoyan , Zhang Weijie , Yao Yongzhong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this study, our aim was to explore the correlation between blood inflammatory markers (BIMs), including neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte to lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and the efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in BC patients. Besides, the relationship between tumor infiltrating inflammatory cells (TIIs) and BIMs has also been preliminarily studied. A total of 315 BC patients between January 2018 and September 2022 were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic curve was used to determine the cut-off value of each BIM. Logistic regression analysis were used to evaluated the predictive power of BIMs for pathological complete response (pCR). TIIs were assessed by immunohistochemistry, and their relationships with BIMs also were analyzed. The results showed that NLR, MLR, PLR in the pCR group were significantly lower than those in the non-pCR group after NACT (p ≤ 0.05). PLR had the largest area under the curve (AUC) (0.73) compared to NLR (0.57) and MLR (0.67) (p < 0.01). Univariate analysis showed ER, PR, HER2, NLR, MLR, PLR were significantly associated with pCR, but multivariate analysis found only HER2 and PLR were independently predictors for pCR (p < 0.01). PLR was positively correlated with the expression of P-selectin in tumor tissue (r: 0.26, p < 0.01). Survival analysis showed that NLR, MLR, PLR had no significant correlation with disease prognosis. In conclusion, PLR after NACT could serve as a predictor for pCR, and it correlated with the imbalance of the tumor-infiltrating platelet to lymphocyte ratio, which might cause drug resistance.
Correlation analysis between carotid atherosclerosis and post-stroke cognitive impairment
Authors: Nie GuanHua , Wei ZhiHong , Su Zhan , Zhang Haining 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) significantly impacts the quality of life and recovery of stroke survivors. An indicator capable of identifying the risk of cognitive decline upon admission can facilitate early identification and management of stroke patients.
Objective
Carotid ultrasound, being a low-cost, widely accessible, and easily measurable diagnostic tool, has drawn the interest of researchers. Consequently, we aimed to investigate the link between carotid atherosclerosis markers and PSCI in patients with mild ischemic stroke (AIS), with the goal of improving early identification and diagnosis of PSCI in patients.
Methods
We enrolled 181 patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke within seven days. Data analysis was conducted using baseline demographics, clinical risk factors, and carotid ultrasound parameters. Binary logistic regression was utilized to analyze the independent factors influencing PSCI. The receiver operating characteristic curve(ROC) was employed to assess the predictive value of carotid atherosclerosis indexes and models combining various independent influencing factors for PSCI.
Results
A total of 181 participants completed the 6-month follow-up, among whom 75 patients (41.1%) were diagnosed with PSCI. Logistic regression analysis revealed that carotid plaque Crouse score (OR = 1.111, 95% CI = 1.016–1.216) and severe stenosis of the carotid artery (OR = 2.774, 95% CI = 1.148–6.705) were independently associated with PSCI at 6–12 months. The predictive model for post-stroke cognitive impairment included carotid plaque Crouse score (AUC = 0.667) and degree of carotid artery stenosis (AUC = 0.596), along with other covariates, with an overall Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.818 (95% CI: 0.758–0.877). There were significant differences in the scores of AVLT-I, AVLT-II, VFT, TMT-B, CDT, and MoCA subdomains between PSCI and post-stroke non-cognitive impairment (PSNCI) patients at 6 months (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
The carotid atherosclerosis index in the acute phase of AIS is independently correlated with PSCI, and both the carotid plaque Crouse score and severe stenosis of the common carotid artery hold diagnostic value for PSCI.
Patients’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Heart Failure: A web-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Jin Ping , Shu Zhisong , Cui Kun , Ou Zhenhong , Li Hongping , Luo Yuhui 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

There is a lack of comprehensive research on the topic of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among heart failure patients. This study aimed to investigate the patients’ KAP toward heart failure (HF). This web-based cross-sectional study was conducted among HF patients, using a self-administered questionnaire. A total of 483 valid questionnaires were enrolled, including 254 (52.59%) males. The mean KAP scores were 10.75 ± 3.44 (possible range: 0–20), 22.93 ± 2.43 (possible range: 8–40), 32.21 ± 4.34 (possible range: 8–40), respectively. Multivariate logistic regression showed that knowledge and heart failure mid-range ejection fraction were independently associated with proactive practice. The SEM analysis showed that education exhibited a positive effect on knowledge, while medical insurance showed a notable negative effect on knowledge. Furthermore, left ventricular ejection fraction #10 score demonstrated a positive effect on knowledge, and marital status had a significant positive effect on knowledge. Additionally, kidney disease emerged as a positive effect on practice, while attitude was found to have a negative effect on practice. HF patients had inadequate knowledge, negative attitude and proactive practice towards HF. Targeted educational initiatives, mental health support, and interventions addressing comorbidities and lifestyle changes are recommended to be integrated into HF management protocols.
What we can and cannot see from the surveillance for drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa - Findings from the evaluation of surveillance system for multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa infections in Japan
Authors: Otake Shogo , Yamagishi Takuya , Shiomoto Takayuki , Nakashita Manami , Kurosu Hitomi , Ikenoue Chiaki , Kato Hirofumi , Fukusumi Munehisa , Shimada Tomoe , Takahashi Takuri , Suzuki Motoi , Kirikae Teruo , Arakawa Yoshichika , Nozu Kandai , Sunagawa Tomimasa , Sugai Motoyuki 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

IntroductionAntimicrobial resistance ofPseudomonas aeruginosais a global health concern, and some countries and regions have been monitoring drug resistance inP. aeruginosawith various surveillance systems.Japan has a national sentinel surveillance for multidrug-resistantP. aeruginosa(MDRP) infections, the sites of which are designated by prefectures, and we are seeing a decreasing trend in the number of MDRP reports in recent years. We evaluated the national surveillance system to verify whether this decreasing trend is true and discussed future directions of the surveillance.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study to evaluate the surveillance system for MDRP infections and discussed its usefulness in 2023. We used a quantitative method to analyze characteristics of reports on MDRP infections from designated sentinel sites (DSSs) between 2013–2022. Additionally, we sent a questionnaire to identifiable DSSs (target DSSs) requesting data on accurate numbers of MDRP infections between 2018–2022. We conducted face-to-face interviews with surveillance system stakeholders as a qualitative method.ResultsIn total, 1,666 cases of MDRP infections were reported by 463 target DSSs between 2013-2022. We obtained valid responses to the questionnaire survey from 229 target DSSs (49.5%). From 2018 to 2022, these sites reported 275 cases as MDRP infections, of which 182 were accurate cases of MDRP infection, with both numbers decreasing over time. False reporting or underreporting of MDRP infections was common, resulting in a positive predictive value of 0.44 and sensitivity of 0.65 for reports in the national sentinel surveillance. The interviews highlighted the difficulties this surveillance system has in timely detection, accurate reporting, and international comparison of surveillance data.ConclusionOur evaluation indicated that current sentinel surveillance for MDRP infections fairly captured the true decreasing trend in Japan. As the epidemiology of drug-resistantP. aeruginosais changing, the direction of the national policy may differ according to the public health needs. The surveillance system also needs to be modified based on the policy, the candidates of which may be a notifiable disease surveillance for MDRP infections to respond to outbreaks, or sentinel surveillance for carbapenem-resistantP. aeruginosainfections to facilitate antimicrobial stewardship and international comparison.
Post-Synthetic Modification of Zr-Based Metal Organic Framework by Schiff Base Zinc Complex for Catalytic Applications in a Click Reaction
Authors: Rezaie Mohammad-Aqa , Khojastehnezhad Amir , Shiri Ali 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

A novel nanocatalyst, denoted as UiO-66/Sal-ZnCl2, has been synthesized and systematically characterized employing a range of analytical techniques, including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area analysis, and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis. The comprehensive analyses collectively affirm the effective coordination of zinc chloride onto the functionalized UiO-66. Subsequently, the catalytic efficacy of UiO-66/Sal-ZnCl2 was assessed in a one-pot, three-component click reaction involving terminal alkynes, alkyl halides, and sodium azide, conducted in an aqueous medium. The catalyst demonstrated remarkable catalytic activity, showcasing the capability to facilitate the reaction with high yields and exceptional regioselectivity. Noteworthy attributes of this nanocatalyst and the method include its elevated efficiency, recyclability, convenient product workup, and, significantly, the utilization of a sustainable solvent medium. The synthesis, characterization, and catalytic performance of this catalyst collectively contribute to its potential as an innovative and reusable nanocatalyst for diverse synthetic transformations.
Family-Related Quality of Life and Burden in Caregivers of Patients with Chronic Skin Diseases
Authors: Elaidy Asmaa M. , Elsheikh Asmaa Abdelghany , Abdellateef Aisha Ghanem , Elsadek Hala M. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Skin diseases significantly impact the psychological well-being, social functioning, and daily activities of patients, which in turn can severely affect the quality of life of their family caregivers. Objectives: To assess burnout prevalence among caregivers of patients with chronic skin diseases (vitiligo, psoriasis, and alopecia areata) and its impact on their quality of life.
Methods: A cross-sectional study using self-assessment questionnaires was conducted on 213 caregivers, utilizing the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) and the Family Dermatology Life Quality Index (FDLQI). The caregivers were equally divided among those caring for patients with psoriasis, alopecia areata, and vitiligo.
Results: The study found that 29.5% of caregivers reported "not having enough time" due to caregiving, especially those caring for patients with psoriasis and vitiligo. Additionally, 37.1% of caregivers experienced stress balancing caregiving with other responsibilities, particularly those caring for patients with alopecia areata and psoriasis.We found that caregivers of psoriasis patients experienced the highest burden, followed by those of patients with alopecia areata and vitiligo. Positive correlation was found between ZBI scores and caregiver age, duration of patient care, FDLQI scores, and disease severity. Similarly, FDLQI scores correlated positively with caregiver age, time spent caregiving, duration, and disease severity.
Conclusion: Caregivers of patients with chronic skin diseases face significant burdens that adversely affect their quality of life. It is crucial to spotlight these caregivers, as addressing their challenges can lead to better support systems and improved quality of life for both caregivers and patients.
Predictive Nomogram of Ultrasound Indicators for the Termination Outcome of Cesarean Scar Pregnancy
Authors: Xiao Xiaoyi , Feng Zhichao , Li Ting , Qiao Hong , Zhu Yun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose
To construct and validate a nomogram to predict the risk of adverse events (intraoperative massive hemorrhage or retained products of conception) during the termination of Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP).
Method
Data from patients diagnosed with CSP who underwent Dilation and Curettage (D&C) at two hospitals were retrospectively collected. This data formed both internal and external cohorts for analysis. The internal cohort was split randomly, with 70% of the data allocated to a training set and 30% to an internal validation set. The external cohort was used exclusively as the external validation set. LASSO and logistic regression were utilized to select variables and construct a nomogram. The nomogram's performance was assessed using various methods including C-index, calibration curve, decision curve analysis (DCA), and clinical impact curve analysis (CICA) to evaluate its ability for identification, calibration, and clinical effectiveness.
Results
The prediction nomogram incorporated several predictors, including scar thickness, type of CSP, gestational sac diameter, and blood flow. This nomogram exhibited strong discrimination, as evidenced by a C-index of 0.829 (95% confidence interval: 0.770–0.887). Moreover, even in the interval validation set, a high C-index value of 0.784 was achieved, and in the external validation set, it reached 0.833. Further assessment through calibration curve analysis, DCA, and CICA revealed a robust agreement between the nomogram's predictions and actual observations, underscoring its utility and reliability.
Conclusion
The validated nomogram effectively predicts adverse events in CSP, showing good discrimination and calibration, making it useful in clinical settings.
Prognostic Value of Lymphocyte Subset Levels in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Following Conventionally Fractionated vs. Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy
Authors: Wang Si-tong , Chen Yi-xing , Gao Yu-nan , Yang Ping , Zhao Qian-Qian , Zhuang Yuan , Zeng Zhao-chong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background and aim:
Radiotherapy (RT)-induced lymphopenia is associated with poor prognosis. This study aimed to compare the effects of conventionally fractionated radiotherapy (CFRT) and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) on lymphocyte subpopulations in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients and to evaluate the prognostic value of lymphocyte subset levels.
Materials and Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 137 HCC patients who underwent CFRT or SBRT between July 2011 and January 2018. Variables were obtained within 1 week before RT, and at 1 day and 2 months post-RT, respectively. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted to investigate independent prognostic factors for overall survival (OS).
Results
The one-year and two-year OS rates were 80.0% and 55.0%, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified tumor size > 4.5cm, multiple tumors, and post-RT CD4 + T cell count < 231/µL and CD8 + T cell count < 179/µL as independent factors associated with inferior OS in HCC patients. Severe RT-induced lymphopenia (< 0.5*10^9/L) occurred in 70.0% of patients following CFRT compared to 23.0% in SBRT patients. Patients receiving SBRT exhibited higher total lymophocyte counts and subset levels at 1 day and 2 months post-treatment compared to those receiving CFRT (P < 0.05). Further analysis revealed that CD19 + B cells were predominantly depleted and recovered more slowly than other populations while CD8 + T cells demonstrated rapid recovery. In the SBRT group, patients with OS > 2 years exhibited higher levels of CD4 + T cell and CD8 + T cell counts compared to those with OS < 2 years (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
SBRT induced less severe lymphopenia than CFRT. Peripheral lymphopenia of CD4 + and CD8 + T cells post-SBRT may independently predict survival for HCC patients.
Psychometric evaluation of an Arabic language version of the Short Form of Preferences for Routines Scale (PRS-S) in Community-dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Khalil Marwa Ibrahim Mahfouz , Shaala Reem Said , Elnakeeb Mayar , Mousa Enas Fouad Sayed , Fekih-Romdhane Feten , Hallit Souheil 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
There is a growing acknowledgment within the scientific community of the importance of preferences for routines (PR) in structuring the daily lives of older adults, as it reliably can serve as either a coping mechanism or contribute to emotional, cognitive, and functional vulnerabilities in its indeclinable form. Therefore, it is crucial to have a reliable, concise, easily administered, and cost-effective tool to assess this concept in clinical practice. The present study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Arabic translation of the Preferences for Routines Scale- Short Form (PRS-S) in older Arabic-speaking adults living in the community.
Method
This study involved 539 older Arabic-speaking adults residing in the Egyptian community. Participants were provided with the 5-item Arabic-translated versions of the PRS-S, the 13-item Older People Quality of Life-Brief (OPQOL-brief), and the 15-item Resilience Scale of Older Adults (RSOA).
Results
Confirmatory factor analyses revealed that, after introducing a correlation between the residuals of items 1 and 2 due to a high modification index, the one-factor model of the PRS-S demonstrated excellent fit indices and a reliability of ω = .70; α = .69. Measurement consistency of the Arabic PRS-S was established across males and females at the configural, metric, and scalar levels; no significant difference in PRS-S scores between genders was found. Lastly, PRS-S scores showed significant and appropriate patterns correlations with the Arabic versions of RSOA and OPQOL-Brief scores in our sample, indicating adequate concurrent validity.
Conclusion
This study presents significant psychometric insights into the PRS-S based on CFA results and other analyses among older adults from a distinct cultural context. Providing the PRS-S in Arabic could be valuable for clinicians working with Arabic-speaking older adults in the community, enhancing the understanding of the prevalence and features of preferences for routines and its relevance to Gero-psychology.