bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association Between Serum Cotinine and Trichomonas Vaginalis Infection among American Adults: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Liu Zhaohui , Zhang Shuangxia , Zhang Zhan , Bai Huihui , Fan Linyuan , Zhang Jiafeng 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: The risk of bacterial infection is higher in people who smoke regularly and in those who are exposed to second-hand smoke. However, research on the connection between serum cotinine and Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis) infection is lacking.
Methods: 4392 participants (2280 women) aged 20 to 59 years who completed a questionnaire about Sociodemographics, lifestyle, physical disease status, and T.vaginalis infection were part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2013 to 2016. Generalized models examined the relationships between serum cotinine levels and T.vaginalisprevalence. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to adjust for potential confounding factors. Restricted cubic splines (RCSs) were used to examine nonlinear associations between serum cotinine and the prevalent of T.vaginalis.
Results: T. vaginalis infections were reported in 95 cases (2.2%) overall. After adjusting for confounding factors, each increase in lg-cotinine was associated with a 1.72 higher likelihood of contracting T. vaginalis, with 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.44-2.06). After adjusting for relevant confounders, the highest tertiles (vs. lowest) of cotinine (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=6.56 (95% CI 2.20~19.58). RCSs analysis revealed that serum cotinine was nonlinearly associated with T. vaginalis infection rate (p for nonlinearity<0.05). In addition, the results of the subgroup and stratified analyses were robust.
Conclusion: According to our cross-sectional research, serum cotinine and T. vaginalis infection have a bad relationship. Further high-quality research is required to determine the cause-and-effect link between tobacco exposure and T. Vaginalis infection.
Longitudinal Relationship Between Weight-Adjusted Waist Index and Stroke Risk in Middle-Aged and Older Chinese Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Li Xiaoqiang , Zhou Xiangmao , Du Hui , Wang Hui , Tan Zhijian , Zeng Yaqing , Song Zhibin , Zhang Guifeng 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability globally, with obesity being a major risk factor. Traditional obesity measures like Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) have limitations. This study investigates the longitudinal relationship between the Weight-Adjusted Waist Index (WWI), a novel obesity measure, and stroke incidence in a middle-aged and elderly Chinese population.
Methods
This prospective cohort study utilized data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) collected over a 9-year period from 2011 to 2020. A total of 9,725 participants aged 45 and older were included. Baseline characteristics were compared across WWI quartiles. Stroke events were identified through self-reported doctor diagnoses during follow-up. Multivariate regression analyses and curve fitting were conducted to assess the relationship between WWI and stroke risk, with adjustments for demographic, lifestyle, and health-related factors. Stratified analyses were performed to examine the consistency of the relationship across different population segments.
Results
Participants in higher WWI quartiles were generally older and had a higher prevalence of stroke and other adverse health conditions. Multivariate regression analyses showed that higher WWI was significantly associated with an increased risk of stroke. In the fully adjusted model, participants in the highest WWI quartile had an odds ratio (OR) of 1.52 (95% CI: 1.19, 1.92) for stroke compared to those in the lowest quartile. Curve fitting revealed a linear relationship between WWI and stroke risk. Stratified analyses confirmed the robustness of this relationship across various demographic and clinical groups.
Conclusions
Higher WWI is associated with an increased risk of stroke in middle-aged and elderly Chinese adults. This longitudinal study provides strong evidence for a linear relationship between WWI and stroke risk over a 9-year period. These findings suggest that WWI could be a valuable tool for long-term stroke risk prediction in this population. Further studies are needed to validate these results in diverse populations and explore the underlying mechanisms.
Enhancing Parallel Genetic Algorithms for Efficient Distributed Data Analysis: Automatic Termination and Population Sizing Integration
Authors: Alterkawi Laila , Migliavacca Matteo 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Unleashing the potential of large-scale data analysis requires advanced computational methods for managing distributed data’s size and complexity. Genetic algorithms (GAs) have demonstrated adaptability through parallelization, prompting further performance enhancements. This study proposes integrating automatic termination and population sizing mechanisms to augment parallel GAs’ flexibility, and effectiveness. We extend PDMS-BioHEL and PDMD-BioHEL, two parallel GAs-based classifiers implemented on the Spark platform. Through extensive experimentation, we demonstrate the efficacy of our approach, enhancing efficiency and user-friendliness. Our techniques enable more efficient and effective large-scale data analysis using Parallel GAs.
Proposing a Precision-Enhancing Method for Sagittal Plane Alignment During Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Park Jisu , Lim Hyeongyu , Chang Chong Bum 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

BackgroundAchieving appropriate alignment after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is crucial for long-term survival of implant but alignment in sagittal plane is relatively not well studied. The purpose of this study was to (1) propose the preoperative sagittal planning method of TKA using X-ray, (2) validate its accuracy and (3) find factors contributing to inaccurate sagittal placement of the component.MethodsPreoperative sagittal planning for the femoral and tibial component was conducted using simple X-ray images. The postoperative X-ray taken 6 weeks after surgery was used to validate the proposed method. The angle between the reference line and the expected resection line before surgery was defined as the preoperative gamma angle for the femur and delta angle for the tibia. Postoperatively, the angle between the same reference line and the actual component was defined as the postoperative gamma and delta angles, respectively. The target angle range for the difference between the preoperative and postoperative gamma and delta angles was set as -2° to 2°. Demographic and radiologic factors between groups that fell within and outside the target angle range were compared.ResultsTotal 75 cases (80.6%) met the target angle range of distal femur resection. Femoral component tended to be placed in more flexed position than planned. Anterior femoral notching was not observed in all cases. Total 89 cases (95.7%) met the target angle range of proximal tibia resection. There were no differences in demographic and radiologic factors between those who were in the target range for femoral or tibial component placement and those who were not. No risk factors were found in additional logistic regression.ConclusionsThe proposed planning method in this study showed reasonable level of accuracy in sagittal plane placement of the prosthesis during TKA. Since this method does not require any programs and additional costs, it could be a good alternative in situations where robotic-assisted TKA is not available.
The interaction between preeclampsia and advanced maternal age on adverse perinatal outcomes: a retrospective cohort study (2013-2022)
Authors: Wu Yubi , Chen Jun , Zhang Lijuan , Chen Ying , Qin Xiaohui , Wu Wei , Zhang Huihui , Qin Huan , Li Jingjing , Zeng Dingyuan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: This study aims to explore the risk of pregnancy complications and outcomes among younger women (aged 20-34 years) and older women ( aged 35 years or older) with PE and further investigate the interaction between PE and advanced maternal age (AMA) on the development of these outcomes.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 75860 single pregnant women aged 20-55 years, logistic regression was perform to find the associations between PE and pregnancy complications and outcomes. Additive interaction analysis between PE and AMA on the development of these outcomes was performed by using odds ratio (OR) due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and synergy index (SI) with their 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs).
Results:Among younger women, PE was associated with higher risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), caesarean delivery, placental accreta spectrum , placental abruption , intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) , haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets (HELLP) syndrome, abnormal placental location and cord insertion, postpartum haemorrhage, preterm birth, low birth weight, fetal distress, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and birth defects when compared to women without PE. The (OR 95%CI) was (1.34, 1.20-1.50), (3.57, 3.22-3.97), (1.40, 1.03-1.92),(6.39, 4.55-8.99), (1.92, 1.59-2.31), (64.98, 29.86-141.41), (1.43, 1.18-1.74), (1.66, 1.26-2.18), (4.50, 4.02-5.04), (6.55, 5.88-7.04), (1.52, 91.34-1.71), (9.37, 8.10-10.83), (1.37, 1.01-1.88), respectively. Among older women, PE had a higher risk of GDM, caesarean delivery, placental abruption, ICP, HELLP syndrome, preterm birth, low birth weight, fetal distress, and IUGR, the (OR 95%CI) was (1.19, 1.03-1.38), (2.92, 2.45-3.48), (4.20, 2.43-7.27), (2.03, 1.57-2.63), (17.74, 7.79-40.42), (4.59, 3.92-5.34), (7.33, 6.26-8.59), (1.56, 1.29-1.88), (9.44, 7.54-11.81), respectively. PE and AMA had a significant synergistic effect on caesarean delivery, preterm birth, and low birth weight (RERI 1.93, 95%CI 0.64-3.22; AP 0.29, 95%CI 0.14-0.43; SI 1.50, 95%CI 1.19-1.90), (RERI 1.40, 95%CI 0.35-2.45; AP 0.23, 95%CI 0.09-0.37; SI 1.37, 95%CI 1.10-1.70), (RERI 2.45, 95%CI 0.93-3.97; AP 0.27, 95%CI 0.14-0.40; SI  1.42, 95%CI 1.16-1.74).
Conclusion: PE was an independent risk factor for a series of pregnancy complications and outcomes, and may play an important role in the interaction with AMA on the development of caesarean delivery, preterm birth and low birth weight.
Development and validation of a predictive model for intrapartum fever using indicators measured before the start of labor analgesia
Authors: Liu Bo , Ling Liang , Jia Fei , Wei Dayuan , Li Yuanling , Li Huiru , Xiao Hongquan , Wang Mengqiao , Zhang Gang , Zhang Jian , Li Chunping 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Combined spinal-epidural anesthesia-related maternal fever has adverse effects on parturients and newborns. Early identification of high-risk febrile parturients can reduce the impact of fever. Herein, we aimed to establish an effective prediction model for combined spinal-epidural anesthesia-related maternal fever using indicators measured before the start of labor analgesia. In retrospective case–control study, 4538 parturients who received labor analgesia at Chengdu Jinjiang District’s Women & Children Health Hospital from January 2021 to March 2022 composed the development cohort, and 1325 parturients who received labor analgesia at Sichuan Jinxin Xinan Women & Children’s Hospital from January 2023 to June 2023 composed the validation cohort. Data were collected before the start of labor analgesia. The optimal predictive factors were identified using stepwise logistic regression and multivariate logistic regression analyses, and a nomogram was developed. The discriminability of the model was verified area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). The consistency of the model was verified by constructing a calibration curve. The clinical validity of the model was determined through decision curve analysis (DCA). The model was further evaluated via external validation. A total of 5863 parturients were included, including 4538 parturients in the development cohort, and 1325 parturients in the validation cohort. The optimal predictors included height, neutrophil count, estimated fetal weight, primiparity, anemia, and degree of cervical dilatation measured before the start of analgesia. The model passed the Hosmer‒Lemeshow test. The AUROCs of the model were 0.699 and 0.701 in the development and validation cohorts, respectively. This predictive model can effectively predict the risk of intrapartum fever using indicators measured before the start of labor analgesia. This model will help clinicians implement early interventions.
Development and Validation of a Short Form Version of the Tuberculosis Medication Adherence Scale（TBMAS-SF）
Authors: Zang Wei , Zhang Xiaoxin , Gu Wenjing , Pan Lutong , Yu Ziying , Wu Yunchou , Li Ting , Wu Yibo 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
In this study, we utilized classical test theory (CTT) to develop and validate a concise, abbreviated version of the Tuberculosis Medication Adherence Scale (TBMAS-SF). This shortened version aims to enhance the reliability and validity of the measurement tool for tuberculosis patients while maintaining good psychometric properties.
Methods
A survey of tuberculosis patients undergoing treatment at the Heilongjiang Provincial Institute of Infectious Disease Control and Prevention was conducted using convenient sampling and the TBMAS. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0 and Amos 24.0. A total of 496 questionnaires were distributed in this study, with 404 valid responses collected, resulting in an effective response rate of 81.45%.
Results
The analysis revealed that the TBMAS-SF has good reliability, with a Cronbach's α coefficient of 0.931 and a split-half reliability of 0.739. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the TBMAS-SF demonstrates good construct validity, with a chi-square degrees of freedom ratio of 4.981, RMSEA = 0.141, RMR = 0.014 (which is less than 0.05), CFI and IFI values exceeding 0.9, and NFI and TLI values approaching 0.9. There was a significant positive correlation between the TBMAS-SF score and medication literacy score (r = 0.228, p < 0.01), demonstrating the good empirical validity of the TBMAS-SF.
Conclusion
The TMAS-SF has good reliability and validity, making it a suitable tool for evaluating adherence to medical instructions among tuberculosis patients.
Utilisation Willingness for Institutional Care among Elderly Adults Living Alone in Northwest of China: A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Lv Fengli , Zeng Hongyu , Zhu Xianshang , Wang Yunhua , Cheng Hu , Wang Jiancheng 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background:Due to changes in family structures and social environments, an increasing number of elderly adults are living alone. The unique characteristics of their lifestyles and the absence of home-based care have necessitated the provision of special care and amenities for the elderly. The issue of willingness to utilize institutional care is a significant research priority, yet few studies have examined the willingness and factors influencing elderly adults living alone to consider such care. The objective of the study is to examine the variables that influence the decision of elderly individuals living alone to receive institutional care. This study aimed to explore the willingness of elderly adults living alone to choose institutional care and associated factors.Methods:This was a cross-sectional study, involving seven cities in Gansu Province, China. The analysis included 3,726 elderly adults living alone and used univariate analysis and binary logistic regression models to analyze the factors influencing institutional care willingness. To explore key factors, data were analyzed with stratifications on gender, age, and gender. The impact strength of each model was determined using the Anderson model as the theoretical foundation.Results:Of 3,726 elderly adults living alone, only 6.3% have a willingness for institutional care. The binary logistic regression showed that sources of life support, knowledge of the combination with medical care, the number of children, satisfaction with current health services, feeling of solitude, and frequency of medical examinations had a statistically significant impact on the willingness of the elderly adultsliving alone to age in institutions (P< 0.05). The predisposing and enabling factors have a bigger impact on the outcomes, according to the findings of fitting the coefficients using the Anderson model.Conclusions:The results of our study showed that elderly adults living alone were less willing to receive institutional care, but they had a higher demand for medical care and emotional support. Consequently, to address the aging crisis, it is advised that pertinent authorities implement targeted initiatives with an emphasis on the elderly.
Patient-derived renal cell carcinoma organoids for precision medicine
Authors: Wu Xiaoxiao , Liu Meiyou , Zheng Wanxiang , Wang Fan , Peng Li , Cheng Lianghua , Wang Jingwen , Jia Yanyan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the most common diseases with limited treatment options. A better understanding of this disease and treatment has been hindered by a lack of representative preclinical models.
Methods: We established tumor organoids, three-dimensional cultures from clinical RCC samples. RCC organoids were characterized by H&E staining,
immunohistochemical staining and whole-exome sequencing. Organoids were derived from patients treated with different drugs to test their responses to the drugs.
Results: H&E staining, immunohistochemical staining and whole-exome sequencing revealed that RCC organoids recapitulated the histological feature and transcriptional profile of the parent tumor. Using the RCC organoid model, we found that RCC organoids exhibited differential responses to sunitinib, pazopanib, Cabozantinib, Lenvatinib + Everolimus, and MK6482 + Sunitinib treatment.
Conclusions: Our research suggests that organoids may become a favorable model for precise drug use in RCC.
The Satisfaction Measurement and Comparison of Medical and Educational Abilities of Students in Morning Report Sessions: An Interventional Study
Authors: Rad Mina Akbari , Ebrahimzadeh Farnoosh , Allahyari Abolghasem , Emadzade Maryam , Firoozi Abdollah , Ghalibaf AmirAli Moodi , farzanehfar Mohammadreza , Rajabzadeh Somayeh 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background and Aim:
The significance of morning report sessions has prompted medical universities, faculties, and clinical medical groups to pursue suitable standards and criteria for conducting these sessions at the highest possible quality. Numerous factors have had a significant impact on the competencies and satisfaction levels of interns, residents, and faculty members with regard to the execution of morning report sessions. This study aimed to investigate the satisfaction levels and compare the medical and educational competencies of medical students participating in morning report sessions. In this study the perspectives of faculty members, internal medicine residents, and medical interns was considered.
Methods
This cross-sectional descriptive study took place in the Internal Medicine departments of Imam Reza and Qaem Educational Hospitals, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, during the academic year 2021–2022. The sample comprised 124 interns, 60 clinical residents, and 41 faculty members, all of whom met the study's criteria and were included in the research through census sampling. The data collection instrument utilized was a questionnaire developed by Makarem and colleagues. The data collected on hospitals was confidentially archived, with the hospital names being coded for the current study. The data collected was analyzed using SPSS version 23 software.
Results
The study involved 225 participants, comprising 60 clinical residents (26%), 124 interns (55%), and 41 faculty members (18%). The results indicated a disagreement between residents and faculty members regarding the participation of residents in morning report sessions, with interns expressing a preference for holding sessions without resident attendance.
Conclusion
The findings clearly indicated that both residents and faculty members objected to the absence of residents in these sessions. This was attributed to the increased responsibility placed on residents for presenting reports and responding to faculty members, leading to a decrease in teaching effectiveness. Conversely, interns expressed a preference for sessions conducted in a classroom-style environment without the presence of residents, citing decreased stress and a lighter burden of responsibility. These findings offer valuable insights for organizing morning report sessions in order to enhance educational quality and increase participant satisfaction.
Mullan’s triangle or Anteromedial Triangle of the Middle Cranial Fossa: A Cadaveric Study with its Surgical Importance
Authors: Kaliappan Ariyanachi , Motwani Rohini , Chandrupatla Mrudula , Patra Apurba 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Surgical approaches to the cavernous sinus (CS) and middle cranial fossa (MCF) can be challenging, particularly for young neurosurgeons. The anteromedial (Mullan’s) triangle is a triangle by the side of the CS and constitutes part of the floor of the MCF. The contents include the sphenoid sinus, superior ophthalmic vein, and sixth cranial nerve. The literature contains very little research that has precisely defined and measured the anteromedial triangle while considering anatomical variances minimally.
Methodology:
The present study was conducted on the skulls of 25 adult human cadavers which were dissected to expose the anteromedial (Mullan’s) triangle on both sides. After precisely defining the triangle on each side, measurements of the three borders were taken, and using Heron’s formula, the area of each triangle was calculated.
Results
On average, the length of the medial border was 12.5 (+ 3.1mm); the length of the lateral border was 9.9 (+ 3.1 mm); the length of the lateral border was 10.75 (+ 2.4 mm) and the area of the anteromedial triangle was 43.9 (+ 15.06 mm2).
Conclusion
Precise anatomical knowledge of the Mullan’s triangle enables the treatment of disorders in often deformed anatomy or difficult-to-access structures. That is the reason it is important to gain a thorough understanding of the surgical anatomy and to adopt a safe procedure.