bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of cardiac catheterization on thyroid functions in infants with congenital heart diseases: A prospective observational study
Authors: Elbaz Boshra , Elmarsafawy Hala , Laimon Wafaa Nabil 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
This study aims to determine the incidence, clinical course and risk factors of hypothyroidism following cardiac catheter (CC) in infants with congenital heart diseases (CHD).
Subjects and Methods:
This prospective study involved 115 patients with CHD, all aged 3 years or younger, who underwent CC, as well as 100 healthy age- and sex-matched controls. Baseline thyroid function tests (TFTs) were conducted for both the patients and controls. In the CHD cohort, TFTs were reassessed 3 weeks after the CC, and for those with abnormal TFT values at this time, the tests were repeated 1week later. Levothyroxine was started in patients with persistent thyroid hypofunction at 3- and 4-weeks assessment following CC.
Results
Four weeks after CC, 12% of the studied group exhibited hypothyroidism. Univariate analysis identified significant predictors of hypothyroidism following CC: aortic stenosis (RR = 10.0 (1.49–66.99), P = 0.018), duration of fluoroscopy during CC (RR = 2.12 (0.99–4.26), P = 0.05), and total iodinated contrast media (iCM) during CC (RR = 2.5 (1.35–3.55), P = 0.019). Multivariate analysis indicated that iCM dose was the sole significant predictor of developing hypothyroidism (RR = 2.10 (1.01–3.23), P = 0.04). ROC curve analysis showed that the cut-off point of iCM dose for prediction of hypothyroidism evolution is 8.7 gm/kg (26.1 ml/kg), (sensitivity: 83%, specificity: 65%), while the cut-off point of fluoroscopy duration which predicts development of hypothyroidism is 24 minutes, (sensitivity: 83%, specificity: 66%).
Conclusion
Higher doses of iCM and longer duration of fluoroscope during CC are risk factors for evolution of hypothyroidism post-CC. We recommend assessing thyroid profile 4 weeks after CC, particularly in patients who received an iCM dose greater than 8.7 gm/kg and/or exposed to fluoroscopy for more than 24 minutes.
SARS-CoV-2 variants induce increased inflammatory gene expression but reduced interferon responses and heme synthesis as compared with wild type strains
Authors: Merchant Mariam , Ashraf Javaria , Masood Kiran Iqbal , Yameen Maliha , Hussain Rabia , Nasir Asghar , Hasan Zahra 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC) have been associated with increased viral transmission and disease severity. We investigated the mechanisms of pathogenesis caused by variants using a host blood transcriptome profiling approach. We analysed transcriptional signatures of COVID-19 patients comparing those infected with wildtype (wt), alpha, delta or omicron strains seeking insights into infection in Asymptomatic cases. Comparison of transcriptional profiles of Symptomatic and Asymptomatic COVID-19 cases showed increased differentially regulated gene (DEGs) of inflammatory, apoptosis and blood coagulation pathways, with decreased T cell and Interferon stimulated genes (ISG) activation. Between SARS-CoV-2 strains, an increasing number of DEGs occurred in comparisons between wt and alpha (196), delta (1466) or, omicron (2313) infections. COVID-19 cases with alpha or, delta variants demonstrated suppression transcripts of innate immune pathways. EGR1 and CXCL8 were highly upregulated in those infected with VOC; heme biosynthetic pathway genes (ALAS2, HBB, HBG1, HBD9) and ISGs were downregulated. Delta and omicron infections upregulated ribosomal pathways, reflecting increased viral RNA translation. Asymptomatic COVID-19 cases infected with delta infections showed increased cytokines and ISGs expression. Overall, increased inflammation, with reduced host heme synthesis was associated with infections caused by VOC infections, with raised type I interferon in cases with less severe disease.
From Ruins to Recovery: Navigating Psychological Impacts of Turkey's 2023 Earthquakes
Authors: Çınaroğlu Metin , Yılmazer Eda , Alpugan Zeynep , Sayar Gökben Hızlı 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The catastrophic earthquakes that struck Kahramanmaraş, Turkey in February 2023, registering magnitudes of 7.8 and 7.6, caused unprecedented destruction and significant psychological distress among the affected populations. This study engaged over 600 participants from 11 heavily impacted cities to assess the mental health repercussions of the earthquakes, focusing on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, resilience, and overall well-being. The results revealed substantial psychological impacts, with 50.2% of the participants reporting a significant worsening of their economic situations, and notable symptoms of PTSD (mean score = 41.3), depression (mean score = 24.7), and anxiety (mean score = 22.4). Resilience scores (mean = 18.6) indicated a moderate capacity to recover from stress. Comparative analysis with other major earthquakes, such as the 2011 Tohoku earthquake in Japan and the 2010 Haiti earthquake, suggests similar patterns of mental health challenges, emphasizing the global and enduring nature of earthquake impacts on human psychology. This study's large scale and extensive participant base provide a robust data set for understanding the full spectrum of psychological responses following a major natural disaster. The study underscores the urgent need for integrated mental health services in disaster responses to support immediate and sustained recovery. The findings advocate for policy enhancements in disaster preparedness and mental health care, emphasizing culturally sensitive approaches tailored to the needs of disaster-affected communities.
Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Risk of Heart Failure
Authors: Oh Rosa , Kim Gyuri , Lee Kyu-na , Cho So hyun , Kim Jiyoon , Med Seohyun Kim , Lee You-Bin , Jin Sang-Man , Hur Kyu Yeon , Han Kyungdo , Kim Jae Hyeon 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND & AIMS
The association between metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the impact of MASLD on the risk of heart failure and cardiovascular (CV) mortality in patients with T2DM.
METHODS
In a nationwide cohort study, 2,745,689 adults with T2DM were followed from 2009–2012 until 2018. Participants were categorized into no steatotic liver disease (no SLD) and SLD groups. The SLD group was stratified based on metabolic risk factors, alcohol consumption, and other liver diseases. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for heart failure (HF) and cardiovascular mortality risk.
RESULTS
The prevalence of MASLD, metabolic alcohol-associated liver disease (MetALD), MASLD with other co-existing liver diseases (Other), and alcohol-associated liver disease with metabolic dysfunction (ALD with MD) was 48.3%, 7.1%, 4.6%, and 2.2%. Individuals with MASLD (adjusted HR [aHR], 1.11), MetALD (aHR, 1.14), ALD with MD (aHR, 1.32) and Other (aHR, 1.23) had a higher risk of developing HF compared with the no SLD group. The risk of CV mortality was increased in those with MASLD, MetALD, ALD with MD and Other compared to those with no SLD. The risk of new-onset HF and cardiovascular mortality showed a J-shaped association with alcohol consumption regardless of SLD status.
CONCLUSION
SLD is independent risk factor of new-onset heart failure and cardiovascular mortality in persons with T2DM, and alcohol consumption has a J-shaped association with risk of HF and CV mortality, regardless of SLD status.
Prevalence of myopia and refractive parameters among children and adolescents in Hi-tech District of Chengdu City (2021-2023)
Authors: Wang Xiaoqin , Zeng Liuzhi , Xian Yiping , Mei Xin , Shan Qingqing , Li Wei-ye , Lv Lixia , Liu Yifeng , Zhang Rui , Song Kejian , Tian Xixi , Luo Honglin , Yang Ling , Zejun Chen , Luo Jun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the prevalence of myopia among children and adolescents in Chengdu from 2021 to 2023, providing insights for myopia prevention and control.
Methods: This study was a school-based cross-sectional study in children and adolescents aged 3–18 years in Hi-tech District of Chengdu City. All the students underwent comprehensive ocular measurement, including visual acuity (VA),spherical equivalent error (SER) with noncycloplegic autorefraction, axial length (AL) and corneal radius (CR) .
Results:Over the three-year study period from 2021 to 2023, the overall prevalence of myopia was 38.15%, with annual rates of 38.74% in 2021, 38.67% in 2022, and 37.4% in 2023. The prevalence of myopia and high myopia increased significantly with age (P < 0.001). In 2021, myopia prevalence was 37.4% among boys and 40.17% among girls; in 2022, 38.05% among boys and 39.43% among girls; and in 2023, 35.85% among boys and 38.33% among girls, consistently higher in girls each year (P < 0.001). Myopia prevalence increased with school level (P < 0.001). Mild myopia was the most common (24.47%), followed by moderate (10.77%) and severe myopia (2.91%). The SER varied, with mean values of -1.72 ± 1.57 D in 2021, -1.32 ± 1.51 D in 2022, and -1.42 ± 1.36 D in 2023 (P < 0.001), decreasing significantly with age (P < 0.001). Axial length (AL) was stable across most age groups, with total AL values of 23.80 ± 1.02 mm in 2021, 23.79 ± 1.04 mm in 2022, and 23.81 ± 1.04 mm in 2023.
Conclusion: Myopic prevalence among children and adolescents in Hi-tech District of Chengdu City was shown to be steadily decreasing from 2021 to 2023. The prevalence increased with age and school level, indicating a need for targeted interventions. Significant changes in spherical equivalent refraction and axial length underscore the importance of early intervention and regular monitoring to manage myopia effectively.
Effectiveness of Pulse Methylprednisolone in Patients with Non-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Pneumocystis Pneumonia: A Multicentre, Retrospective Registry-based Cohort Study
Authors: Morimoto Yasuhiro , Matsui Hiroki , Fujioka Haruka , Homma Yuya , Nagai Tatsuya , Otsuki Ayumu , Ito Hiroyuki , Ohmura Shin-ichiro , Miyamoto Toshiaki , Shichi Daisuke , Watari Tomohisa , Otsuka Yoshihito , Nakashima Kei 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
A recent database study and meta-analysis reported that adjunctive glucocorticoid therapy reduces mortality in patients with non-human immunodeficiency virus-associated (non-HIV) Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP), having hypoxemia. However, the optimal glucocorticoid dose remains unclear. Our study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of pulse methylprednisolone compared with mild-to-moderate steroid doses in patients with non-HIV PCP.
Methods
This multicentre retrospective cohort study included adults with non-HIV PCP receiving adjunctive steroids at three Japanese tertiary care hospitals from June 2006 to March 2021. Patients were categorised into pulse methylprednisolone and mild-to-moderate dose groups. Pulse methylprednisolone involved an initial intravenous infusion of 500–1000 mg methylprednisolone daily, while the mild-to-moderate dose was lower. Primary and secondary outcomes were 30-day and 180-day mortality rates from treatment initiation. Patient characteristics were adjusted using propensity score analysis with overlap weighting. Subgroup analysis focused on patients with respiratory failure.
Results
The study included 139 patients with non-HIV PCP: 55 in the pulse methylprednisolone group and 84 in the mild-to-moderate dose group. After adjusting for patient background, 30-day mortality (15.8% vs. 14.1%, P = 0.813) and 180-day mortality (33.7% vs. 25.3%, P = 0.367) did not differ significantly between groups. Subgroup analysis revealed no significant associations among patients with respiratory failure.
Conclusions
After adjusting for patient characteristics, no difference in prognosis was observed between pulse methylprednisolone and mild-to-moderate dose groups in patients with non-HIV PCP. A mild-to-moderate dose of adjunctive corticosteroid may suffice for treating non-HIV PCP.
Artificial dural regeneration matrix as a substitute for autologous tissue in indirect bypass in Moyamoya disease: Investigation of a rat model of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion
Authors: Kameno Koki , Kaku Yasuyuki , Ohmori Yuki , Takemoto Yushin , Uekawa Ken , Mukasa Akitake 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective
Indirect bypass using autologous tissue is effective in Moyamoya disease, especially inpediatric patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of indirect bypass using DuraGen, an absorbable artificial dura mater composed of collagen matrix, in place of autologous tissue in a rat model of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion.
Methods
Male Wistar rats were subjected to bilateral internal carotid artery occlusion and divided into three groups: control group without bypass surgery, group in which indirect bypass was performed using the temporalis muscle (encephalo-myo-synangiosis [EMS] group), and group in which DuraGen was used (Dura group). The ratio of the number of vascular endothelial cells, detected by antibodies to CD31 and glucose transporter type 1 (Glut-1), on the operative side to that on the non-operative side was measured and compared between the three groups.
Results
The ratio of CD31-positive cells was 1.50 ± 0.13 and 1.92 ± 0.29 in the EMS and Dura groups, and that of Glut-1-positive cells was 1.32 ± 0.1and 1.53 ± 0.18 in the EMS and Dura groups. No significant difference was observed in the ratio of vascular endothelial cells on the bypass side between the EMS and Dura groups.
Conclusion
Indirect bypass with DuraGen resulted in an increased ratio of vascular endothelial cells equivalent to that of indirect bypass with the temporalis muscle in a Rat model.This result indicated that in an actual indirect bypass for patients with MMD, the use of DuraGen may produce the same angiogenesis as using autologous tissue.
Effect of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Embedded in Fibrin Gel on Post-Hepatectomy Liver Regeneration: A Therapeutic Model Inducing a Paracrine Effect
Authors: Imamura Hiroki , Tomimaru Yoshito , Kobayashi Shogo , Harada Akima , Kita Shunbun , Sasaki Kazuki , Iwagami Yoshifumi , Yamada Daisaku , Noda Takehiro , Takahashi Hidenori , Hokkoku Daiki , Kado Takeshi , Toya Keisuke , Kodama Takahiro , Saito Shigeyoshi , Shimomura Iichiro , Miyagawa Shigeru , Doki Yuichiro , Eguchi Hidetoshi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We investigated the potential of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) in preventing post-hepatectomy liver failure, emphasizing the necessity of direct administration using a scaffold to harness their paracrine effects. A fibrin gel scaffold was employed for ADSCs (gelADSCs) to assess their therapeutic impact on liver regeneration in both in vitro and in vivo settings. Experiments were conducted on C57BL/6 mice with normal livers and those with chronic hepatitis. We also explored the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by ADSCs in conjunction with fibrin gel. GelADSCs showed sustained release of hepatocyte growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, and stromal cell–derived factor 1 for at least 7 days in vitro. In vivo, gel ADSCs significantly enhanced postoperative liver regeneration by upregulating the cell cycle and fatty acid oxidation in both normal and chronically hepatitis-affected mice. The therapeutic effects of gel ADSCs were notably superior to those of intravenously administered ADSCs, especially in mice with chronic hepatitis. Increased EV secretion associated with fibrin gel use was significantly linked to enhanced liver regeneration post-surgery through the promotion of fatty acid oxidation. The findings underscore the enhanced therapeutic potential of gelADSCs, particularly in the context of chronic hepatitis, compared to intravenous administration.
Seismic Response Analysis of Masonry Pagoda Considering SSI Effect and Study of New Material (CFRP) Reinforcement Scheme
Authors: Li XiaoPeng , He Qing , Ling Kangjie , Liu Dewen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

As invaluable historical legacies, the preservation of ancient pagodas is of paramount importance, not only because they embody rich cultural significance but also due to their vulnerability in the face of natural disasters. Seismic reinforcement has become one of the key measures for the conservation of ancient pagodas. This study initially focuses on the Soil-Structure Interaction (SSI) effect, an often-neglected factor that is crucial to the seismic response of ancient pagodas. Through in-depth analysis, it has been discovered that the SSI effect significantly increases the risk of damage to ancient pagodas. To enhance the seismic performance of ancient pagodas, this research proposes a strategy for reinforcement using high-performance Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composite materials. Known for its lightweight, high-strength, and corrosion-resistant properties, CFRP offers an innovative solution for the structural reinforcement of ancient pagodas. By conducting a principal tensile stress analysis of the pagodas, the weak links have been identified, and targeted CFRP reinforcement has been implemented. The reinforced pagodas have shown a significant improvement in seismic performance, not only ameliorating the brittle failure characteristics of masonry structures but also effectively reducing the extent of tensile damage and prolonging the structural damage timeline. These findings indicate that CFRP reinforcement provides an effective new approach for the seismic reinforcement of masonry structures, with broad prospects for promotion and application.
Preoperative ECG Signs of Ischemia Increase the Risk of Perioperative Myocardial Injury: An Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Valadkhani Arman , Klintman Johannes Liu , Bell Max 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Perioperative myocardial injury (PMI) is associated with increased postoperative mortality. To date, many different definitions have been used to define PMI. There is a scarcity of studies that have explored the association between ischemic findings on preoperative ECG and PMI. We aimed to explore the association between preoperative ECG signs of ischemia and perioperative myocardial injury in high-risk patients undergoing vascular surgery.
Methods: The patients included in this retrospective single-center cohort study were recruited from a patient cohort recruited for a different prospective cohort study. High-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) was measured preoperatively and at 4 to 6, 24 and 48 hours postoperatively. Preoperative ECG was acquired within seven days prior to index surgery. Preoperative ECG signs of ischemia were defined as one or more of ST-elevation, ST-depression, T-wave inversion or pathological Q-wave. The primary outcome was PMI defined both solely according to the guidelines presented by the European Society of Cardiology (PMI1) and in combination with the older definition presented in the Fourth Universal Definition of Myocardial infarction (PMI2). Logistic regression and multiple regression were used to analyze the aim of the study.
Results: In total 474 patients undergoing vascular surgery were included in this study. The primary outcomes of PMI1 and PMI2 occurred in 50 (10.5 %) and 103 (20.7 %) patients, respectively. A significant adjusted association was found between preoperative ECG signs of ischemia and PMI1 (OR, 2.42; 95% CI, 1.32-4.45; P = 0.004). However, the adjusted association with PMI2 was not significant (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 0.99-1.91; P = 0.056).
Conclusions: Among patients with preoperative ECG signs of ischemia we found a more than doubled risk of PMI1, the definition that required a larger perioperative elevation in hs-cTnT. Large multicenter randomized clinical trials are needed to evaluate if the outcome of patients with preoperative ECG signs of ischemia can be modified.
A Case of Canine Immune-Mediated Polymyositis: Update of the diagnosis and clinical evaluation
Authors: Han Jungwoo , Jang KeunHwan , Cho Seung-Bum , Kim SuYeon , Oh Songju , Kim Ha-Jung 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

1. Background
Inflammatory myopathy is generally categorized into generalized inflammatory myopathies (gIM), which affect muscles throughout the body, and focal inflammatory myopathies (fIM), which are localized to specific muscles or muscle groups. This report details a case of immune-mediated polymyositis in a dog, successfully diagnosed using MRI and IHC and managed with immunosuppressive therapy.
2. Case presentation
A 5-year-old castrated male Poodle was admitted to a hospital presenting with lethargy and exercise intolerance. Biochemical analysis revealed significantly elevated serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and creatine kinase (CK). Physical examination showed muscle atrophy in the hind legs, but further orthopedic and neurological examinations identified no additional abnormalities. MRI demonstrated hyperintense and heterogeneous signal changes across the muscles, including contrast enhancement, suggesting polymyositis. This diagnosis was confirmed through histopathological examination, which revealed inflammatory lesions with fibrous tissue proliferation within the muscle tissue.
3. Conclusions
The dog was diagnosed with immune-mediated polymyositis and treatment was initiated with prednisolone (Solondo®, Yuhan Pharmaceuticals) at 1 mg/kg twice daily and azathioprine (Immuthera®, Celltrion Pharmaceuticals) at 2 mg/kg once daily. Following the administration of these immunosuppressive agents, CK levels returned to normal, and the dog’s exercise intolerance and lethargy resolved. The thickness of the hind legs also increased progressively. The dog has maintained an improved condition under continued immunosuppressive therapy for four months. This case highlights the critical role of MRI and immunohistochemistry in diagnosing immune-mediated polymyositis, demonstrating their superiority over conventional electromyography (EMG) in this context.
Improved environmental DNA detection sensitivity of Opisthorchis viverrini using a multi-marker assay
Authors: Matsuo Riko , Togetani Ayana , Adisakwattana Poom , Yoonuan Tippayarat , Phuphisut Orawan , Limpanont Yanin , Sakata Masayuki K. , Sato Marcello Otake , Sato Megumi , Minamoto Toshifumi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Opisthorchiasis, caused by the liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini, is endemic to Southeast Asian countries and constitutes a major health problem, as it increases the risk of cholangiocarcinoma. However, because of the complicated life cycle of O. viverrini, there is no rapid method for monitoring the risk of infection in the environment. The inability to identify water sources at risk of infection presents a challenge for implementing preventive measures in areas where fish are a significant component of the local diet. Using the environmental DNA (eDNA) approach to detect parasite DNA in water samples, it is possible to better understand the distribution of O. viverrini and the dynamics of infection with high accuracy. However, sensitivity remains a bottleneck in environmental samples. In this study, we developed an improved, highly sensitive method for the detection of O. viverrini eDNA. To increase the sensitivity, we designed a multi-marker assay comprising two mitochondrial and two nuclear genes as target regions and compared its sensitivity with single-marker assays using tissue-derived DNA samples. The multi-marker assay exhibited the highest detection sensitivity. We also collected data from 56 sites in Sakon Nakhon, Thailand, in October 2022 and tested them for the eDNA detection of O. viverrini. Eleven sites were positive in the multi-marker assay, whereas five sites were positive in the single-marker assay. This multi-marker assay can be used in the field to detect small organisms and rare species, other than parasites, that are expected to have low levels of eDNA.