bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Retrospective Analysis of Multi-drug Resistant Gram-negative Bacteria on Veno-venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation. The Multicenter Ranger Study.
Authors: Boscolo Annalisa , Bruni Andrea , Giani Marco , Garofalo Eugenio , Sella Nicolò , Pettenuzzo Tommaso , Bombino Michela , Palcani Matteo , Rezoagli Emanuele , Pozzi Matteo , Falcioni Elena , Pistollato Elisa , Biamonte Eugenio , Murgolo Francesco , D'Arrigo Graziella , Gori Mercedes , Tripepi Giovanni Luigi , Gottin Leonardo , Longhini Federico , Grasso Salvatore , Navalesi Paolo , Foti Giuseppe 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background: Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) is a rapidly expanding life-support technique worldwide. The most common indications are severe hypoxemia and/or hypercapnia, unresponsive to conventional treatments, primarily in cases of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Concerning potential contraindications, there is no mention of microbiological history, especially related to multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria before V-V ECMO placement. Our study aims to investigate: i) the occurrence of MDR Gram-negative (GN) bacteria in a cohort of V-V ECMOs; ii) the risk of 1-year mortality; and iii) the impact of annual hospital V-V ECMO volume on the probability of acquiring MDR GN bacteria.
Methods: All consecutive adults admitted to the Intensive Care Units of 5 Italian university-affiliated hospitals and requiring V-V ECMO were screened. Exclusion criteria were age < 18 years, pregnancy, veno-arterial or mixed ECMO-configuration, incomplete records, survival < 24 hours after V-V ECMO placement. A routine protocol of microbiological surveillance was applied and MDR profiles were identified using in vitro susceptibility tests.
Results: Two hundred and seventy-nine V-V ECMO patients (72% male) were enrolled. The overall MDR GN bacteria percentage was 50%: 21% (n. 59) detected before and 29% (n. 80) after V-V ECMO placement. The overall 1-year mortality was 42%, with a higher risk observed in precolonized patients (aOR 2.14 [1.33-3.47], p-value 0.002), while not in ‘V-V ECMO-acquired MDR GN bacteria’ group (aOR 1.51 [0.94-2.42], p-value 0.090), as compared to ‘non-MDR GN bacteria’ group (reference). A larger annual hospital V-V ECMO volume was associated with a lower probability of acquiring MDR GN bacteria during V-V ECMO course (aOR 0.91 [0.86-0.97], p-value 0.002).
Conclusions: The occurrence of MDR GN bacteria was 21% before and 29% after V-V ECMO connection. A history of MDR GN bacteria, before V-V ECMO, was an independent risk factor for mortality. The annual hospital V-V ECMO volume affected the probability of acquiring MDR GN bacteria.
TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrial.gov registration number NCTNCT06199141, date 12.26.2023.
Assessment and Repeatability of Aerobic Capacity Using the Chester Step Test Among Current, Former, and Never Smokers
Authors: Caci Grazia , Spicuzza Lucia , Emma Rosalia , Campagna Davide , Nadir Meera , Anastasi Erika , Pennisi Francesco , Hunter Stanley , Bhide Shivraj , Polosa Riccardo 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Cigarette smoking contributes to reduced cardiorespiratory performance, which may improve upon cessation. Consequently, former smokers' cardiorespiratory fitness should not be significantly different from that of never smokers.
We compared aerobic capacity (V̇O2max) among current, former, and never smokers and verified its repeatability. V̇O2max values were obtained using the Chester Step Test (CST) method during two separate study visits approximately 10 days apart.
V̇O2max measurements were available from a total of 70 subjects (23 current, 23 former, and 24 never-smokers) and showed significant repeatability. Current smokers had the worst aerobic capacity, with a mean VO2max ± SD of 38.8 ± 4.5, which was significantly lower than the VO2max of 41.62 ± 3.8 in never-smokers (p < 0.0001) and 41.43 ± 4.6 in former smokers (p < 0.0001). No significant differences were observed between never-smokers and former smokers.
V̇O2max estimates by CST were reproducible and showed that the aerobic capacity of individuals who smoke is substantially inferior compared to never and former smokers. Improvement in cardiorespiratory performance following smoking cessation may have important implications for smoking cessation, especially for those smokers who perceive enhanced physical performance as a tangible benefit.
Intermuscular adipose tissue or intramuscular adipose tissue content, which affects skeletal muscle density more? -a study based on abdominal opportunistic CT
Authors: Guo Xinyi , Cao Nana , Deng Xin , Wang Nan , Li Rui , Ren Song , Fu Fei , Kang Liqing , He Zhen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

To explore intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) and intramuscular adipose tissue content (IMAC) which affect skeletal muscle density (SMD) more and elucidate its underlying causes. 292 inpatients without definite musculoskeletal system disease were recruited. All the patients performed abdominal CT. Muscle parameters which included skeletal muscle area (SMA), skeletal muscle index (SMI), SMD, IMAC and IMAT, and fat parameters which included area of subcutaneous fat tissue in abdominal wall were measured by two musculoskeletal radiologists with Image J software at the level of L3 vertebrae. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify the factors which affected SMD, and compared the extent of influence. SMD was highly correlated with IMAT and IMAC (p < 0.05), moderately correlated with gender, age and area of subcutaneous fat tissue in abdominal wall (p < 0.05), and slightly correlated with BMI (p < 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that IMAC, IMAT and age are influencing factors of SMD (p < 0.05). The order of influence degree is IMAT(Stbβ=-0.616), IMAC(Stbβ=-0.429), and age (Stbβ=-0.098). Area of subcutaneous fat tissue in abdominal wall and gender were not influence factors of SMD (p > 0.05). Age, IMAT, and IMAC exert an influence on SMD. Notably, the impact of IMAT on SMD is much more significant.
Modulation effects on the dynamics of a ring of three Duffing oscillators coupled unidirectionally with time-dependent damping
Authors: Hernández-Cedillo J. C. , Gallegos A. , Urenda-Cázares E. , Barba-Franco J.J. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We study the dynamics of a ring of three unidirectionally coupled modulated double-well Duffing oscillators for three different values of the damping coefficient: fixed damping, proportional to time, and inversely proportional to time. The dynamics in all cases are analyzed through time series, Fourier transforms, Poincaré sections, as well as bifurcation diagrams and Lyapunov exponents with respect to the coupling strength and modulation parameters (amplitude Γ and frequency θ). In the first case, we observe how a well-known route from a stable steady state to hyperchaos through Hopf bifurcation and a series of torus bifurcations change when modulation parameters (amplitude and frequency) and the coupling strength are increased. In the second case, the system is highly dissipative and converges into one of the small limit cycles generated from the attraction basins. Finally, transient toroidal hyperchaos coexists with quasi-periodic states in the third case.
Efficacy of "Zha Tiao" electroacupuncture for patients with knee osteoarthritis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Da Weiwei , Liu Shuang , Xue Chunchun , Chen Lin , Qian Qing , Ding Chao , Sun Pan , Xue Fan , Xue Yongpeng , Aibar Nalayev , Qi Shi , Li Xiaofeng 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background: Both Acupuncture and electroacupuncture have demonstrated effectiveness in treating knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Variations in acupuncturists' manipulations may lead to differing therapeutic outcomes. The aim of this trial is to determine the efficacy and safety of an acupuncture technique (Zha Tiao) which is characterized by eliciting muscle twitching as an objective manifestation, combine with electroacupuncture for KOA.
Methods: In this randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blind trial, 78 patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) classified as K-L grade II or III were randomly assigned to receive either 'Zha Tiao' electroacupuncture (ZT-EA) or regular electroacupuncture (R-EA) three times weekly for four weeks in a 1:1 ratio. Participants, outcome assessors, and statisticians keep unware of treatment group assignment. Primary outcome assessments, including the visual analog scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), range of motion (ROM), Cross-Sectional Area (CSA) of quadriceps, fastest walking time over 15 meters, Short Form 12 (SF-12), axial alignment of the lower extremity and lower limb strength, were measured at baseline, during the treatment phase (at 2 and 4 weeks), and at follow-up visits (at 8 and 12 weeks). Adverse events occurring during the trial will be recorded and analyzed. In the event of subject withdrawal from the trial, intention-to-treat analysis (ITT) will be conducted.
Expected Results and Conclusion: We expect this randomized trial to evaluate the effectiveness of Zha Tiao on relieving pain and increasing ability in KOA patients. The proposed acupuncture treatment might provide an alternative option for both doctor and patient.
Trial registration: China Registered Clinical Trial Registration Center (ChiCTR2400085328). Registered on Jun. 05. 2024.
Optimizing Model Performance and Interpretability: an application to biological data classification
Authors: Huang Zhenyu , Cao Yangkun , Chen Qiufen , Shi Bocheng , Li Yuqing , Xiao Gangyi , Mu Xuechen , Xu Ying 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

In biological data classification, both performance accuracy and result interpretability are desired and yet difficult to achieve simultaneously. We present a framework for transcriptomic data-based classification that can accomplish both. The key idea is as follows: 1) to identify metabolic pathways whose expressions have strong discerning power in separating samples having distinct labels, hence providing a basis for providing interpretability of the classification results; 2) to select pathways from the afore-identified whose expression variance for each can be largely captured by its first principal component of the gene-expression matrix for the pathway, hence allowing to select a minimal number of discerning pathways; 3) to select a minimal set of genes whose collective discerning power covers 95% of the discerning power for each selected pathway, giving rise to a set of features (genes) for classification; and 4) to select a model among the available ones and model parameters that give the optimal classification results. We have demonstrated the effectiveness of this framework on two cancer biology problems. We anticipate that this framework will be used for the selection of features, model, and model parameters for a wide range of biological data classification problems.
Enhancing Lithium-Ion Battery Performance: Nano Al2O3 Film Deposition on High Mass Loading LiFePO4 Cathode Electrode Using Atomic Layer Deposition Technique
Authors: Salimi Pejman , Gottardi Gloria , De Morais William Gomes , Bartali Ruben , Laidani Nadhira , Macchi Edoardo Gino 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4or LFP) is a promising cathode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), but side reactions between the electrolyte and LFP electrode can degrade battery performance. This study introduces an innovative coating strategy using atomic layer deposition (ALD) to apply a thin (5nm and 10nm) Al2O3layer on high mass loading LFP electrodes. Galvanostatic charge-discharge cycling and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) were used to assess the electrochemical performance of coated and uncoated LFP electrodes. The results show that Al2O3coatings enhance cycling performance at room temperature (RT) and 40°C by suppressing side reactions and stabilizing the cathode-electrolyte interface (CEI). The coated LFP retained 67% of its capacity after 100 cycles at 1C and RT, compared to 57% for the uncoated sample. Post-mortem analyses, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), were conducted to investigate the mechanisms behind the improved performance. These analyses reveal that the Al2O3coatings are highly effective in reducing LFP electrode degradation during cycling, demonstrating the potential of ALD Al2O3coatings to enhance the durability and performance of LFP electrodes in LIBs.
Exosomes secreted from human-derived adipose stem cells prevent progression of osteonecrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Ikezaki Tatsuhito , Kuroda Yutaka , Kawai Toshiyuki , Okuzu Yaichiro , Morita Yugo , Goto Koji , Matsuda Shuichi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) primarily affects young individuals and is a leading cause of total hip arthroplasty in this population. Joint-preserving regenerative therapies involving core decompression (CD), enhanced with cells, growth factors, and bone substitutes, have been developed but lack extensive validation. Exosomes are emerging as a promising regenerative therapy. Human adipose stem cell (hADSC)-derived exosomes exhibit angiogenic and wound-healing effects on damaged and diseased tissues, suggesting their potential efficacy in treating early-stage ONFH. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of hADSC-derived exosomes based on CD in a medium-sized animal model (rabbit).
Methods
Exosomes were extracted using the ultrafiltration filter technique from the culture supernatants of two types of hADSCs. Characterization of exosomes was performed through nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy, and the detection of specific biomarkers (CD9, CD63, and CD81) by western blotting. Eighteen rabbits underwent surgical vascular occlusion and intramuscular corticosteroid injections to induce ONFH. Concurrently, CD treatment with local administration of hADSC-derived exosomes (exosome group) or saline (control group) was performed. Femoral heads were harvested at 4, 8, and 12 weeks postoperatively and evaluated using micro-computed tomography and tissue staining to assess the protective effects on osteonecrosis, angiogenesis, and osteogenesis.
Results
Exosomes had average particle concentrations of 1.8×1012 or 1.8×109 particles/mL, with particle size distributions averaging 61.2 ± 14.7 or 123.1 ± 46.3 nm, and were confirmed by specific biomarkers. The exosome group exhibited a significant reduction in the severe progression of ONFH to stages 3 or 4 of the modified Ficat and Arlet classification, compared to the control group, which had four cases of stages 3 or 4. The exosome group showed significantly fewer empty lacunae in the subchondral bone area (p < 0.05) and significantly less articular cartilage injury (p < 0.05) compared to the corresponding in the control group. There were no significant differences in the microvessel number, bone trabecular structure, or volume of new bone in the medial region of the CD.
Conclusions
hADSC-derived exosomes can prevent the progression of ONFH by inhibiting osteonecrosis and cartilage damage. The ultrafiltration filter technique is effective for exosome extraction, indicating that exosomes hold potential as a therapeutic agent for ONFH.
WASPE Sleep Adjustment for Children Aged 0-4 Years Undergoing Radiotherapy: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Phase II Clinical Trial
Authors: Jiang Wenheng , Liu Pei , Xu Zheng , Zhang Xiang , Xu Lei , Zhu Kunli , Cui Zhen , Wang Jingfu , Shi Pengyue , Yue Jinbo 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Radiotherapy plays a crucial role in pediatric cancer treatment, but challenges exist in achieving precise positioning and irradiation, particularly in young patients. Anesthetics like propofol and chloral hydrate are commonly used, but their associated health risks necessitate exploration of alternative approaches. This study investigates the effectiveness of a novel sleep adjustment method in reducing sedative reliance during radiotherapy for children aged 0–4, aiming to enhance treatment safety and efficacy in this vulnerable population.
Methods
A randomized controlled Phase II clinical trial will enroll 140 pediatric patients who will be stratified 2:1 into the sleep adjustment group or the sedation group. The WASPE method, which includes watching videos, outdoor activities, stimulation to keep the child awake, playing with toys and eating snacks, will be used to induce deep sleep during radiotherapy in the sleep adjustment group, and the traditional sedation method will be used to deliver radiotherapy in the sedation group. The primary endpoint of the study is radiotherapy completion rate, with secondary endpoints including radiotherapy efficiency and accuracy metrics, quality of life assessments, biological markers of immune function and growth hormone levels, and safety assessments.
Discussion
This research aims to demonstrate the non-inferiority of the sleep adjustment approach versus standard sedation in radiotherapy completion rates for pediatric cancer patients. Detailed analyses focusing on radiotherapy completion rates, efficiency and accuracy metrics, quality of life assessments using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, immune function indicators, growth hormone levels, and safety outcomes will provide valuable insights into the benefits of reducing sedative use in this context. By investigating innovative strategies to enhance the radiotherapy experience for young patients, this study contributes to advancing pediatric cancer care practices.
Trial registration:
The trial has been registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with identifier: NCT06443632 (registered May 30, 2024).
Effect of replacing Bis-GMA by a biobased trimethacrylate on the physicochemical and mechanical properties of experimental resin composites
Authors: Moreira Madiana Magalhães , Silva Ana Larissa da , Pereira Rita de Cássia Sousa , Silva Lucas Renan Rocha da , Feitosa Victor Pinheiro , Lomonaco Diego 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To analyze the incorporation of cardanol trimethacrylate monomer (CTMA), derived from the cashew nut shell liquid, as a substitute for Bis-GMA on the physicochemical and mechanical properties of experimental resin composites.
Materials and Methods
The intermediary cardanol epoxy was synthesized via cardanol epoxidation, followed by synthesis of CTMA through methacrylic anhydride solvent-free esterification. Experimental resin composites were formulated with an organic matrix composed of Bis-GMA/TEGDMA (50/50 wt %) (control). CTMA was gradually added to replace different proportions of Bis-GMA: 10 wt % (CTMA-10), 20 wt % (CTMA-20), 40 wt % (CTMA-40), and 50 wt % (CTMA-50). The composites were characterized in terms of degree of conversion, water sorption and solubility, viscosity, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis, flexural strength and elastic modulus. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test (α = 0.05), except for water sorption data, which were analyzed by Kruskall-Wallis and Dunn’s method.
Results
CTMA-based and control composites did not show statistically significant differences regarding degree of conversion, flexural strength and elastic modulus. CTMA reduced the viscosity and solubility compared to Bis-GMA-based composite. The CTMA-40 and CTMA-50 exhibited significantly lower water sorption compared to the control. Also, acceptable thermal stability and viscoelastic properties were obtained for safe use in the oral cavity.
Conclusions
The incorporation of CTMA into composites resulted in similar chemical and mechanical properties when compared to Bis-GMA-based material, while reducing viscosity, water sorption and solubility.
Clinical Relevance
CTMA could be used as a trimethacrylate monomer replacing Bis-GMA in resin composites, thereby minimizing BPA exposure.
Major Stoma Complications in Pediatric Patients in a Tertiary Hospital in a Low Middle-income Country: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Tan Alexa Ynez , Deogracias Jan Miguel 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Intestinal stomas are one of the most common parts of pediatric surgical care and complications arising from it have significant impact on over-all patient outcomes. However, data on major complications in low-middle income countries remain limited. This pilot retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the prevalence, types, and management of major stoma complications in pediatric patients at a tertiary government hospital in the Philippines.Methods: Medical records of pediatric patients with major stoma complications classified as Clavien-Dindo III-V from June 2018 to June 2023 were reviewed. Patient-related factors (age, sex, diagnosis) and surgery-related factors (stoma type and location, surgeon expertise) were analyzed. Descriptive statistics characterized demographic profiles, while chi-square and t-tests analyzed categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression evaluated independent associations with major stoma complications.Results: Out of 1,041 pediatric patients with stomas, 102 cases had major complications, representing a prevalence rate of 9.8%. Mortality directly attributed to stoma complications accounted for 1.3% of the total cases, or 14 deaths in 5 years. Neonates comprised a significant portion, primarily diagnosed with congenital conditions like anorectal malformation and Hirschsprung's disease. Ileostomies exhibited a higher incidence of major complications compared to other stoma types. Stomal prolapse and adhesive bowel obstruction are the most common reported stoma complications requiring surgical intervention while stoma revision is the most frequent corrective procedure. The median time from stoma creation to presentation of major complication was 14 months, with nearly half of the complications occurring within the first year. Only the presence of ileostomy had significant association with the development of major complications among the risk factors analyzed.Conclusion: This study provides useful insights into stoma complications in pediatric patients in a low-middle income country. Despite the lack of significant associations between the patient-related and surgeon-related factors, and major stoma complications, further investigation into other contributing factors is warranted. Improvements in data collection methods and prospective studies with larger sample sizes are recommended to enhance understanding and optimize care of major stoma complications. Addressing the challenges identified in this study could lead to a comprehensive and tailored approach to pediatric stoma care and their complications.
The relationship between Self-Stigma with Medication Adherence and Quality of life in people with type 2 diabetes
Authors: momeni seyede fateme , shirinkam fatemeh , mohamadi sepideh , karimi hengameh 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Self-stigma (SS) in patients with diabetes can lead to negative feelings about themselves, which can lead to negative effects on quality of life (QOL) and reduced medication adherence (MA) in patients. The aim of the study was determining the relationship between SS with MA and QOL in people with type 2 diabetes.
Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 232 patients with type 2 diabetes, who had a record in the urban comprehensive health service centers at Babol-Iran University of Medical Sciences, were selected using the convenience sampling method. Data were collected using demographic and clinical questionnaires, Self-Stigma Scale (SSS), Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS) and Quality Of Life Questionnaires (QOLQ).
Results: The mean scores of SS, MA and Quality Of Life were 31.07±21.45, 4.97±1.62, 82.32±10.48 respectively. The results showed that there was a negative and significant correlation between SS with MA (P=0.001, r=0.07) and also QOL (P= 0.001, r=0.0036).
Conclusion: Planning to reduce SS can be used to improve MA and QOL in people with type 2 diabetes.