bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Differentiation of newly developed intracranial lesions after long-term management of non-germinomatous germ cell tumors (NGGCTs)
Authors: Zheng Xue-Qing , You Hui , Lian Xin , Mao Xin-Xin , Huang Huai-Gu , Wang Xi , Liu Jia-Hui , Duan Lian , Zhu Hui-Juan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Intracranial germ cell tumor (iGCT) is a rare type of brain tumors which is prevalent among children and adolescents. Among iGCTs, non-germinomatous germ cell tumors (NGGCTs) presented with a poorer prognosis. Since treatment primarily involves chemotherapy and radiotherapy, it is crucial to differentiate treatment-related secondary tumors that may develop during follow-up from recurrences of iGCTs. However, there are few studies distinguishing between these two outcomes. Based on the criteria from SIOP trials, we identified 3 NGGCT patients from Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) who achieved remission after initial treatment but developed new intracranial lesions upon long-term follow-up. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of these 3 patients. At first, all 3 NGGCT patients presented with elevated tumor markers and intracranial lesions on MRI. After the initial treatment, all patients achieved clinical remission and were followed-up regularly. However, more than 5 years later, new intracranial lesions appeared on MRI in these 3 patients, with variated locations and changes in tumor markers. 1 patient was diagnosed with secondary meningioma, while the others were highly suspected as recurrences of iGCTs. All patients received timely and appropriate interventions. In conclusion, differentiating between tumor recurrence and secondary tumors during the follow-up of iGCTs requires a comprehensive assessment involving tumor marker patterns, imaging features, and pathological findings.
The Impact of Meta-linguistic Ability on Mathematical Ability: Evidence from Phenotype and Genetics
Authors: Zhao Jingjing , Zhang Ximiao , Yang Qing 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Despite the importance of language and mathematical abilities in children's development, there is still a lack of systematic empirical research on how language skills affect mathematical skills. There are two main theories that focus on the relationship between language and mathematical ability: the thinking function hypothesis and the medium function hypothesis. Based on the two hypotheses, the present study investigates the impact of meta-linguistic abilities on mathematical abilities among Chinese language users from quantitative traits and genetic level. Results showed that phonological awareness, morpheme awareness, rapid automatize naming, and orthographic awareness all have an impact on arithmetic ability, mathematical reasoning ability, and visual spatial ability both directly and by means of decoding ability after controlling for performance IQ, sex and age. Polygenic scoring for language abilities were found to be able to predict arithmetic and mathematical reasoning abilities rather than visual spatial abilities. Indicating that the impact of meta-linguistic abilities on mathematical abilities is partly due to the mediating role of reading ability, and may also be due to the overlapping cognition basis between meta-linguistic abilities and basic computational ability. Our findings provide a deeper understanding of how meta-linguistic abilities impact mathematical abilities, offering valuable insights into the comorbidity of language and mathematical deficits.
Knowledge, Attitudes, And Practices Towards Sexually Transmitted Infections Among GOPD Patients in Ekiti State, Nigeria
Authors: Ashaolu Joseph Opeolu , Ashaolu Kehinde R. , Ogunbola Steven 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
The burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have become a serious global public health concern with consequence morbidity and mortality, especially in developing countries. The risk of contracting these infections however, spread amongst various subgroup of the population. This study aimed to comprehensively examine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices pertaining to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among patients attending the General Outpatient Department (GOPD) at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH).
Method
A cross-sectional study surveyed 400 outpatients, aged 18 to 45 years old, from the General outpatient department (GOPD) in the health facility from November 2023 – February 2024. Community-based and descriptive approach was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire to assess both the quantitative and qualitative indicators of knowledge, attitude and practices amongst the respondents. Chi-square and regression methods was employed in the analysis of the various factors and outcomes.
Results
Our result shows that socio-demographic characteristics such as gender and education level are key determinants of STI knowledge levels with a significant association (P < 0.05) between sex (χ2 = 22.71, p = 0.01), level of education (χ2 = 36.61, p = 0.01), occupation (χ2 = 33.45, p = 0.01) and Knowledge of STIs reported in this study. However, there were no significant differences based on age, marital status, or religion. From the data, majority of patients with positive attitudes 82.80% (n = 231) are willing to seek healthcare services compared to those with negative attitudes 16.20% (n = 48). In addition, a significant association was observed between attitudes of GOPD patients and health seeking behavior (p = 0.04), indicating the role of attitudes towards STIs in healthcare-seeking behavior among GOPD patients. Moreover, our result shows that cost of drugs (χ2 test = 35.15, df = 3, p = 0.002), impacts on privacy (χ2 test = 36.61, df = 3, p < 0.001), drug use inconveniences (χ2 test = 43.171, df = 3, p = 0.03) and trust in healthcare providers (χ2 test = 44.149, df = 3, p = 0.01) are all significantly associated with engaging STIs safety practices. Thus, attitudes towards STIs significantly impacted healthcare-seeking behaviour, underscoring the importance of positive attitudes in promoting proactive engagement with healthcare services.
Conclusion
These findings emphasizes the need for targeted health education interventions to address knowledge gaps, reduce stigma, and foster safe sexual practices among the population. Leveraging on these insights will enable healthcare providers and policymakers to collaboratively work towards mitigating the burden of STIs and enhancing sexual health outcomes within EKSUTH and similar healthcare settings.
Long-term inflammatory outcome after placement of a novel two-piece dental implant in a dog model experimental peri-implantitis
Authors: Chaushu Liat , Tal Haim 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose - Evaluate the inflammatory outcome of a two-piece novel titanium dental implant (test article) vs. a one- piece titanium dental implant (control article) inducing experimental peri-implantitis in a dog model.
Materials & Methods
A novel, two-piece pre-assembled implant with a 0.2-thickness sleeve in its coronal 4.2 mm part was developed (Test article). Ligature-induced experimental periimplantitis model was applied, followed by decontamination and bone grafting in seven dogs. Four groups were assessed according to decontamination and resurfacing protocol: E1 (Experimental 1): test article- sleeve removed, mechanical and chemical decontamination, new rough surface non-threaded sleeve was inserted; E2 (Experimental 2): test article- sleeve removed, mechanical and chemical decontamination, test article remained denuded presenting a turned non-threaded surface; C1 (Control 1): sleeve remained, mechanical and chemical decontamination in test article, original rough surface, non-threaded sleeve; C2 (Control 2): control article cleaning, mechanical and chemical decontamination of original rough surface, threaded implant. Buccolingual and mesiodistal sections were prepared for each site. Resin qualitative and semi-quantitative histopathologic inflammatory parameters were analyzed.
Results: Group C1 showed statistically significant highest signs of residual long-term inflammation, followed by groups E1, and C2. Group E2 displayed the lowest local inflammation. Mesio/Distal aspects displayed increased long-term inflammatory infiltrate albeit not statistically significant.
Conclusions
Within the limits of the present study, it may be concluded that – 1. The decontamination procedure is more effective in a commercial one-piece vs. a two-piece dental implant. 2. Mechanical and chemical decontamination outcome is insufficient. Resurfacing improves the decontamination outcome. 3. Decontamination of the turned surface is superior to the rough surface.
Clinical relevance: When choosing the most appropriate dental implant for individuals with a high risk for peri-implant disease, a one-piece dental implant with a turned crestal surface is preferable. Once occurring, the control of peri-implant disease inflammation may be more successful. Decontamination is usually not enough. Resurfacing is highly recommended if possible.
Development of a biocomposite based on cassava bagasse and fique fiber with potential use in the manufacture of pots: physical-mechanical characterization and biodegradability
Authors: Bolaños Pedro Alban , Buitron Elsa Susana Cajiao , Carlosama Diego España , Muñoz Ricardo Camacho , Castillo Hector Samuel Villada , Torres Gerardo Andrés 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The objective of this study was to develop a biocomposite material from cassava bagasse and fique fiber with potential use in the manufacture of pots. The study began with the characterization of cassava bagasse and fique fiber, and then proceeded to obtain the composite material with its respective characterization. The fique fibers showed a water absorption of 55.78 ± 4.27 %, a tensile strength of 298.645 MPa, a modulus of elasticity of 5.3 GPa and an elongation of 11.47%, an aspect ratio between 10 and 50, a maximum peak degradation of 359 °C and a crystallinity of 63%. In the case of cassava bagasse, it showed a maximum degradation peak at 317°C. A crystallinity of 45.3% and the morphological study revealed a structure composed of small starch granules surrounded by cellulosic fibers. The composite material was obtained with a mixture of 35% fique fiber and 65% cassava bagasse gel. This biocomposite had low water absorption and high mechanical strength. FTIR analysis indicated that the band between 3200 cm-1 and 3700 cm-1 broadened slightly after the addition of fique fiber, which could be due to the formation of intermolecular hydrogen bonds between starch and fiber. In addition, the material was found to meet the biodegradability condition required by EN 13432.
Early autologous and/or allogeneic stem cell transplantation for adult patients with advanced stage T- lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma or Burkitt lymphoma. A retrospective single-centre analysis
Authors: Steiner Normann , Baier Katherina , Ritter Denise , Rudzki Jakob , Hetzenauer Gabriele , Köck Stefan , Kircher Brigitte , Gunsilius Eberhard , Wolf Dominik , Nachbaur David 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction: T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T-ALL/LBL) and Burkitt lymphoma (BL) are uncommon, highly aggressive diseases originating either from immature precursor T cells or from mature B cells in BL.
Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the outcome of an early autologous and/or allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) concept in 28 patients with advanced stage T-ALL/LBL and BL after three to four remission induction/consolidation chemotherapy cycles.
Results: Considering only patients in first complete remission (CR), the 5-year overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS) was 91% in patients with BL and 73% in patients with T-ALL/LBL with a 5-year relapse incidence (RI) of 9% in patients with BL and 27% in patients with T-ALL/LBL. All relapsing patients finally succumbed to the disease (n=10) or complications/toxicity after having received a salvage allogeneic transplant (n=5).
Conclusion: Despite the low patient number our retrospective single-centre analysis by incorporating an early intensive high-dose chemo-/radiotherapy strategy with either autologous or allogeneic stem cell transplantation, although preliminary, show promising long-term outcome. Further studies are highly warranted to better define those patients who might benefit most from such a treatment approach.
Individuals’ food preferences can be influenced by the Music styles: An ERP study
Authors: Tian Dingyue , Xu Ziyuan , Yan Han , Tie Bijie , Zhao Wen , Jing Yuanluo , Pang Yazhi , Liu Xiaolin , Zhao Jia , Liu Yong 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Studies have shown that there is a cross-modal association between listening to music and eating. This study aims to explore the influence of music style on individuals’ food preferences and provide evidence for understanding multi-sensory research. Twenty seven participants participated in the experiment. The experiment consisted of two parts. Firstly, participants completed basic information; and then completed the food choice task after being stimulated by four different styles of music and simultaneously recorded EEG data. The behavioural results showed that: compared with low-calorie foods, individuals selected more high-calorie foods. In addition, individuals selected more high-calorie foods than low-calorie foods during the jazz music; while individuals selected more low-calorie foods than high-calorie foods during the classical music. The ERP results showed that: The N1 amplitudes were smallest during the classical music and greatest during the rock music; the N450 amplitudes were smallest during the jazz music. P2 amplitudes were smallest during the rock music and greatest during the classical music. P3 amplitudes during jazz music were the greatest. Pearson analysis showed that body satisfaction was positively related to classical-P3, Jazz-P3 and Rock-P3; BMI was negatively correlated with body satisfaction. Our study provides innovative practical perspectives for healthy eating.
The lingual and facial arteries’ common origin: A systematic review with meta-analysis and a computed tomography angiography study
Authors: Triantafyllou George , Vassiou Katerina , Duparc Fabrice , Vlychou Marianna , Paschopoulos Ioannis , Tsakotos George , Tudose Razvan Costin , Rusu Mugurel Constantin , Piagkou Maria 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The present evidence-based systematic review with meta-analysis aimed to investigate the fusion morphology of the lingual artery and facial artery (in the form of the linguofacial trunk-LFT) pooled prevalence and morphometry. After carefully investigating the data literature, a retrospective computed tomography angiography (CTA) study was performed to investigate a few parameters that were not well-studied.
Materials:
An evidence-based systematic review retrieved 41 studies that met our inclusion criteria to identify the LFT pooled prevalence. The literature search was performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Sciences databases. Then, a meta-analysis of the literature was performed using the open-source R programming language and the RStudio software. Moreover, two hundred CTAs were randomly selected and retrospectively studied to identify LFT topography, morphology, and morphometry.
Results
The LFT pooled prevalence was calculated at 16.41%. The subgroup analyses for nationality, type of study, laterality, and gender retrieved no statistically significant association. The unilateral appearance was estimated at 15.92%, compared to the bilateral at 3.28% (p < 0.001). Concerning the findings of our original study, 50 LFTs were identified (12.5%) unilaterally in 34 patients and bilaterally in 8 patients. A significant correlation was observed between the distance LFT origin from the carotid bifurcation (CCB) (p < 0.001) and the distances LA and FA origin from the CCB (p = 0.004).
Conclusions
A systematic review with meta-analysis of the LFT were presented, along with an original imaging retrospective study investigating detailed parameters of LFT topography, morphology and morphometry. Knowledge of LFT presence is essential for interventionists in the head and neck region.
Polyacrylonitrile Fiber Recycled Concrete Frost Durability Test And Damage Modeling Study
Authors: Wang Rui , Shen Xiaolin , Deng Xianghui , Yang Yiwen , Zhang Jinzeng , Gao Xiaoyue 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The recycling of concrete is environment-friendly and contributes to the sustainable development strategy. Recycled concrete can achieve better compressive strength, but there are deficiencies in tensile and frost durability. Then, the polyacrylonitrile fiber can be used as a toughening component due to its good properties such as high tensile strength, high ultimate elongation, etc., which can endow the recycled concrete with higher toughness and maintain the properties of concrete under the high altitude and cold conditions. In this study, mechanical tests and frost durability tests were conducted on polyacrylonitrile fiber recycled concrete with polyacrylonitrile fiber mixing content of 0.7 kg/m3, 0.8 kg/m3, 0.9 kg/m3 and recycled coarse aggregate’s substitution rates of 30%, 40%, and 50%. The results showed that the concrete with the best frost durability is the one with 40% replacement of recycled coarse aggregate and 0.8 kg/cm3 of polyacrylonitrile fiber. Based on the experimental research, a freeze-thaw damage model of polyacrylonitrile fiber recycled concrete was developed, revealing the damage mechanism of polyacrylonitrile fiber recycled concrete. The results are of great significance in theory and engineering for the application of recycled concrete.
Comparative study of three alcohol-related harm reduction programs: an ideal-type analysis
Authors: Perrin Sarah , Fillol Amandine , Stevens Nolwenn , Cambon Linda , Martin-Fernandez Judith 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The present article aims to identify appropriate interventional levers based on different types of publics and professionals, by comparing three alcohol-related harm-reduction programs implemented in France. To offer a transversal and more relevant analysis for action, we carried out an analysis by ideal types based on typical profiles of users and professionals. Twenty-one professionals using one of the three interventions took part in this study, and twenty-one users were included. Three typical profiles for users have therefore been identified: the socially included drug user, using alcohol only not targeting abstinence, the multiple substance user in very precarious situation with an ambivalent attitude to their substance use, and the middle-class drug user who want to achieve abstinence and feels guilty. Four typical profiles for professionals have also been identified: the isolated leader, the leader of a group, the willing professional eager to improve their practices, and the professional overwhelmed by a failing system. Depending on the user's profile, certain levers and professional profiles appear to be particularly suitable for ensuring the effectiveness of the intervention and the user's adherence to the program. All our findings point to the need to adapt interventions to users' needs, rather than expecting users to adapt to the objectives of the interventions. Mobilization of the notion of proportionate universalism, as defined in 2010, could be a relevant perspective for AHR interventions.
Serum Creatinine as a Mediator in the Association Between Iron Status and Cardiovascular Disease Among Menopausal Women: A Cross-Sectional Study from NHANES, a Nationally Representative Survey
Authors: He Yi , Lan Ying 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background: Iron status abnormalities are prevalent among postmenopausal women and have been implicated in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.
Objective:To explore the association between iron status and CVD risk in postmenopausal women.
Methods: We conducted a nationally representative cross-sectional study in the United States using data from five NHANES survey cycles (1999-2006, 2017-2018). Our analysis included 3,681 participants, among whom 11.41% (420/3681) had prevalent CVD. Iron status was assessed using hemoglobin (Hb), serum ferritin (SF), and transferrin saturation (TSAT). Multivariable logistic regression examined the correlation between SF levels and CVD risk. Given the nonlinear nature of the relationship, weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models were employed for further analysis.
Results: Multivariable logistic regression revealed a significant negative correlation between SF levels and CVD risk, with a nonlinear pattern and an inflection point at 123 ng/mL for SF. Both WQS and BKMR models indicated a negative association between iron status biomarkers and CVD risk, with Hb showing the most significant influence. Mediation analysis identified serum creatinine as a mediator in the association between iron status biomarkers and CVD risk.
Conclusions: This study reveals an association between iron status biomarkers and CVD risk in postmenopausal women, with serum creatinine partially mediating this relationship. These findings contribute to understanding the mechanisms linking iron status and cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women and suggest potential targeted intervention strategies. However, longitudinal studies are needed to validate these findings and explore early intervention strategies for preventing CVD.
Modelling personal temperature exposure using household and outdoor temperature and questionnaire data: implications for epidemiological studies
Authors: Xia Xi , Chan Ka Hung , Niu Yue , Liu Cong , Guo Yitong , Ho Kin-Fai , Yim Steve Hung-Lam , Wang Baihan , Doherty Aiden , Avery Daniel , Pei Pei , Yu Canqing , Sun Dianjianyi , Lv Jun , Chen Junshi , Li Liming , Wen Peng , Wu Shaowei , Lam* Kin Bong Hubert , Kan* Haidong , Chen* Zhengming 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The reliance of outdoor exposure data in epidemiological studies on temperature entails important uncertainties from personal exposure misclassification. We analysed ~88,000 concurrent person-hours of measured personal, household (kitchen and living room), and outdoor temperatures collected in the summer (MAY-SEP 2017) and winter (NOV 2017-JAN 2018) in rural and urban China. The temperatures across microenvironments were strongly correlated (Spearman’s ρ: 0.86-0.92) in summer. In winter, personal temperature was strongly related to household temperatures (ρ: 0.74-0.79) but poorly related to outdoor temperature (ρ: 0.30). Random forest (RF) algorithm identified household and outdoor temperatures and study date as top predictors of personal temperature exposure for both seasons, and heating-related factors were important in winter. Multivariable linear regression and RF models incorporating questionnaire and device data performed satisfactorily in predicting personal exposure in both seasons (R2summer: 0.92; R2winter: 0.68-0.70). Using generalised additive mixed effect models, we found consistent U-shaped associations between measured and predicted personal temperature exposures and heart rate (lowest at ~14.5ºC), but a weak positive linear association with outdoor temperature. Personal and outdoor temperatures differ substantially in winter, but prediction models incorporating household and outdoor temperatures and questionnaire data performed satisfactorily. Exposure misclassification from using outdoor temperature may produce inappropriate epidemiological findings.

*Kin Bong Hubert Lam, Haidong Kan, and Zhengming Chen are joint senior authors.