bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Should we match patients and controls for geographic origin in clinical research: environmental and/or genetic factors influence oculomotor behaviors
Authors: Lackmy Angéla , Edragas Régine , Tressières Benoit , Pélonde-Erimée Véronique , Bonnet Cécilia , Rivaud-Péchoux Sophie , Pouget Pierre , Roze Emmanuel , Gaymard Bertrand , Lannuzel Annie 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Despite the importance of selecting appropriate control groups in clinical research, the impact of ethnical and environmental causes is rarely examined. Here we investigate eye movement performances in populations composed of healthy subjects with two different ethnic origins and living environments, 63 Czechs and 59 Caribbean subjects. Healthy subjects differed in their oculomotor behaviors. Compared to the Czechs, the Caribbean subjects had a slower maximum velocity of visually guided saccades, longer vertical saccade latencies, smaller downward vertical saccade gain, a higher frequency of square wave jerks and longer latencies, and higher error rates in the antisaccade task. Within the Caribbean group, high consumers of Annonaceae food products had shorter visually guided saccade latencies and lower vertical saccade velocities, characteristics observed in patients at early stages of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. In summary, differences in oculomotor behavior between groups of healthy subjects emphasize the need to carefully select control subjects in clinical research. A specific pattern of oculomotor behavior was observed in some of our Caribbean subjects that could correspond to a presymptomatic stage of atypical Parkinsonism induced by toxic environmental factors. Finally, this study emphasizes the critical role of selecting appropriate control groups in clinical research and questions the impact of ethnical and environmental factors.
Establishing a telemedical supported trans-sectoral collaboration network from community support to emergency care for outpatient care recipients: study protocol, Stay@Home – Treat@Home
Authors: Müller Doreen , Jachan Deborah Elisabeth , Stahl Maria , Rosenbusch Marie-Luise , Liersch-Mazan Daniela , Lippert Peggi , Hinricher Niels , Group STH Research , Schulz Mandy , Lahmann Nils 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Demographic changes in Germany are increasing the number of outpatient care recipients, who often resort to emergency care due to difficulties accessing timely outpatient medical care. Previous studies suggest that early detection and telemedical interventions could reduce unnecessary hospitalizations. The new form of healthcare aims to provide continuous, flexible healthcare for outpatient care recipients using digital technologies to detect health deteriorations and facilitate interventions at home. The goal of our study is to evaluate, whether the number of emergency situations and hospital stays will be reduced, and health outcomes will be improved compared to standard care.
Methods
In this prospective non-randomized complex intervention study with a pragmatic approach, we aim to evaluate a new form of healthcare focused on establishing an interdisciplinary network for outpatient care in the homes of care-dependent individuals. Utilizing a digital interactive health diary, health data will be gathered from participants, caregivers, and healthcare providers, covering both stable primary care and acute situations. A telemedical network will coordinate measures, including non-medical aid, nursing care, and medical assistance. A total of 1,500 participants will be recruited for the intervention group, matched with a control group from health insurance data. The study was planned to span eight quarters, with data collected from the digital interactive health diary and health insurance records. Evaluation perspectives include health insurance, patients, and healthcare providers, assessing utilization and costs compared to standard care, health status, health-related quality of life, care dependency, interdisciplinary cooperation, and usability of the new technology.
Discussion
Demographic change results in a larger elderly population, exacerbating mobility issues and care dependency, worsened by the shortage of medical personnel. Stay@Home – Treat@Home aims to enable home health monitoring and care, reducing hospitalizations. The digital interactive health diary supports direct communication, allows remote monitoring, and empowers patients and caregivers to manage health changes. Nursing aid personnel and physicians can access entries for informed interventions. The development of the digital interactive health diary aims to improve the situation of care-dependent individuals. Evaluating its effectiveness and efficiency is crucial for the development and implementation of new technologies.
Trial registration:
German Clinical Trials Register, ID: DRKS00034260, registered on May 14, 2024 (retrospectively registered).
Multiple Pathogen Infections accompanied with Ocular Pathologies in a Patient with High-Titer Anti-IFN-γ Autoantibodies: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Siyao , Liang Siqiao , Liang Hanlin , Ning Yan , Li Xia , He Zhiyi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The typical clinical characteristic of patients with anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies (AIGAs) is primarily associated with infection caused by intracellular pathogens. With continued research, additional clinical characteristics had been gradually uncovered. Here, we present a case of multiple pathogen infections accompanied by ocular pathologies in a patient with high titers of AIGAs. The patient, a 53-year-old female patient, was admitted to our hospital after finding a mass in the right supraclavicular fossa. She was successively diagnosed with T. marneffei, A.flavus and NTM infections and she received a complete course of antifungal agents for nearly 3.5 years and anti-NTM treatment for nearly 3 years, with discontinuation upon symptom improvement. However, there was a rapid recurrence of the infection upon cessation of the drug despite improvement in the patient's symptoms. What’s more, when the recurrent infection stabilized, the patient exhibited uveitis and conjunctival fibrosis mediated by anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies, which was successfully treated with immunosuppressants. Patients with high-titer AIGAs are more prone to experiencing recurrence and/or persistent infection, as well as immune disorders.
CT-based Potential Predictor for CKD-free Survival after Partial Nephrectomy in Patients with Small RCC
Authors: Ahn Seong Min , Jung Dae Chul , Moon Min Hoan , Lee Jung Wook , Han Kyunghwa , Kwon Yonghan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
To determine whether postoperative renal parenchymal volume from first post-operative computed tomography (CT) is a significant prognostic factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD) on the long-term follow up after partial nephrectomy (PN).
Methods
This retrospective study included 319 patients who underwent PN for T1 localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC) between September 2006 and December 2020. Kidney volume data of first postoperative CT and preoperative CT was made with a three-dimensional rendering software. Time-dependent cox proportional-hazards regression analysis was used to find important risk factors that indicate the development of new-onset CKD following PN, adding kidney volume data to various clinical parameters.
Results
Of the 319 patients who underwent PN for T1 localized RCC, a total of 13 patients (4.0%) had new-onset CKD at last follow up and developed it at a median follow up of 46 months. Univariable analyses of the Cox proportional hazards model showed that age, hypertension, preoperative/postoperative eGFR, and total kidney volume/kilogram body weight were potential risk factors associated with new-onset CKD development. In multivariable cox proportional models, the likelihood-ratio test confirmed that overall performance of models was improved by including total kidney volume (p = 0.008).
Conclusions
Renal parenchymal volume of first postoperative CT was a significant risk factor of CKD development on long-term follow up in patients with T1 RCC after PN. Therefore, first postoperative imaging studies will be able to help predict CKD development, as well as to assess the success of the surgery and to monitor recurrence or complications.
Predictive Factors for the Coexistence of Colorectal Lateral Spreading Tumors and Colorectal Polyps, and Risk Factors for Malignant Transformation
Authors: Yuan Qingwen , Zhang Zhimei , Zhang Yanqi , Zhang Shuxian , Zuo Chenyan , Zhang Huahui , Song Jiafu , Liang Xuyang 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Lateral spreading tumors (LSTs) and colorectal polyps are both considered precursors to colorectal cancer and often coexist. This study aimed to identify independent predictive factors for the coexistence of LSTs with colorectal polyps and the independent risk factors for malignancy in LSTs with colorectal polyps.
Methods
This retrospective study included 229 patients diagnosed with LSTs via colonoscopy at Lianyungang First People's Hospital from January 2020 to March 2024. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of colorectal polyps: polyp group (n = 139) and non-polyp group (n = 90). Clinicopathological characteristics were compared between the two groups, and binary logistic regression was used to identify predictive factors for coexistence. The polyp group was further subdivided into malignant group (n = 62) and non-malignant group (n = 77) based on the degree of dysplasia. Binary logistic regression was also used to analyze the risk factors for malignant transformation of LSTs with colorectal polyps.
Results
Male gender (OR = 0.330, 95% CI: 0.186 - 0.586, P < 0.001) and age between 50 - 75 years (OR = 4.293, 95% CI: 1.060 - 17.376, P = 0.041) were identified as predictive factors for the coexistence of colorectal polyps with LSTs. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for the predictive model was 0.703 (95% CI: 0.633 - 0.773; P < 0.001). LST diameter ≥ 2 cm (OR = 4.574, 95% CI: 1.754 - 11.933, P = 0.002), LST-G-H subtype (OR = 8.761, 95 % CI: 2.788 - 27.530, P < 0.001), and LST-G-M subtype (OR = 0.182, 95%CI: 0.039 - 0.845, P = 0.030) were identified as risk factors for malignant transformation of LSTs with colorectal polyps. The AUC for this predictive model was 0.873 (95% CI: 0.814 - 0.931, P < 0.001).
Conclusion
Men aged 50 - 75 with LSTs are more likely to have coexisting colorectal polyps. Larger LST diameter and mixed nodular subtype increase the risk of malignant transformation when coexisting with colorectal polyps, whereas homogeneous granular subtype may reduce this risk.
How to search for and reveal a hidden intermediate? The ELF topological description of non- synchronicity in double proton transfer reactions under oriented external electric field
Authors: Labet Vanessa , Geoffroy-Neveux Antoine , Alikhani Mohammad Esmaïl 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

· Context:
The nature of double intermolecular proton transfer was studied with the ELF topological approach in two model dimers (the formic acid homodimer and the 1,2,3-triazole–guanidine heterodimer) under an oriented external electric field. It has been shown that each of the two dimers can have either a one-step (one transition state structure) or two-step (two transition state structures) reaction path, depending on the intensity and orientation of the external electric field. The presence of a singularly broad shoulder (plateau in the case of homodimer, and plateau-like for heterodimer) around the formal transition state structure results from the strong asynchronicity of the reaction. A careful ELF topological analysis of the nature of protons, hydride (localized) or roaming (delocalized) proton, along the reaction path allowed us to unambiguously classify the one-step mechanisms governing the double-proton transfer reactions into three distinct classes: 1) concerted-synchronous, when two events (roaming proton regions) completely overlap, 2) concerted-asynchronous, when two events (roaming proton regions) partially overlap, 3) two-stage one-step non-concerted, when two roaming proton regions are separated by a “hidden intermediate region”. All the structures belonging to this separatrix region are of the zwitterion form.
· Methods:
Geometry optimization of the stationary points on the potential energy surface was performed using density functional theory –wB97XD functional– in combination with the 6-311++G(2d, 2p) basis set for all the atoms. All first-principles calculations were performed using the Gaussian 09 quantum chemical packages.
We also used the electron localization function (ELF) to reveal the nature of the proton along the reaction path: a bound proton (hydride) becomes a roaming proton (carrying a tiny negative charge ≈ 0.3 e) exchanging with two adjacent atoms via two attractors (topological critical points with (3, -3) signature). The ELF analyses were performed using the TopMod package.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Predominantly Antibody Deficiency
Authors: Elmoursi Ahmed , Zhou Baijun , Ong Mei-Sing , Hong Joseph S. , Pak Andrew , Tandon Megha , Sutherland Natalia , DiGiacomo Daniel V. , Farmer Jocelyn R. , Barmettler Sara 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures individual well-being across physical, psychological, and social domains. Patients with predominantly antibody deficiency (PAD) are at risk for morbidity and mortality, however, the effect of these complications on HRQoL requires additional study. Patients with PAD were asked to voluntarily complete the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) HRQoL-14 Healthy Days Measure questionnaire. These results were compared to data from the CDC-initiated Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a cross-sectional questionnaire including questions from CDC-HRQOL-14. Statistical analyses included two-proportion Z-test, t-tests, and analysis of variance. 83 patients with PAD completed the survey. Patients were sub-stratified into mild (23.7%), moderate (35.5%), severe (40.8%), and secondary (8.4%) PAD. "Fair or poor" health status was reported in 52.6% of PAD patients. Mental health challenges ≥ 14 days/month occurred in 25% of patients. Physical health issues ≥ 14 days/month was reported in 44.7% of patients. Activity limitations were noted by 80.3% of patients. There were no statistically significant differences by PAD severity. Patients with autoinflammatory disease co-morbidities reported more mental health challenges compared to those without (78% vs. 54.3%, p = 0.02). Compared to the CDC-BRFSS data, significantly more patients with PAD reported "fair or poor" health status (53% vs 12.0%; p < 0.0001), mental health challenges (24.1% vs 14.7%; p = 0.02), and poor physical health (44.6% vs 8.0%; p < 0.0001). Patients with PAD had significantly reduced HRQoL compared to CDC-BRFSS respondents from a similar geographical region. Decreased HRQoL was prevalent across all PAD severity levels. Additional research is needed to improve HRQoL for patients with PAD.
Genome-wide association analysis of treatment resistant schizophrenia for variant discovery and polygenic assessment
Authors: Lenk Hasan Çağın , Koch Elise , O’Connell Kevin S. , Smith Robert Løvsletten , Akkouh Ibrahim A. , Djurovic Srdjan , Andreassen Ole A. , Molden Espen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Treatment resistant schizophrenia (TRS) is broadly defined as inadequate response to adequate treatment and is associated with a substantial increase in disease burden. Clozapine is the only approved treatment for TRS, showing superior clinical effect on overall symptomatology compared to other drugs, and is the prototype of atypical antipsychotics. Risperidone, another atypical antipsychotic with a more distinctive dopamine 2 antagonism, is commonly used in treatment of schizophrenia. Here, we conducted a genome-wide association study on patients treated with clozapine (TRS) vs. risperidone (non-TRS) and investigated whether single variants and/or polygenic risk score for schizophrenia are associated with TRS status. We hypothesized that patients who are treated with clozapine and risperidone might exhibit distinct neurobiological phenotypes that match pharmacological profiles of these drugs and can be explained by genetic differences. The study population (n = 1286) was recruited from a routine therapeutic drug monitoring service between 2005 and 2022. History of a detectable serum concentration of clozapine and risperidone defined the TRS (n = 478) and non-TRS (n = 808) group, respectively.
Results
We identified a suggestive association between TRS and a common variant within the LINC00523 gene with a significance just below the genome-wide threshold (rs79229764 C > T, OR = 4.89; p = 1.8×10− 7). Polygenic risk score for schizophrenia was significantly associated with TRS (OR = 1.4, p = 2.1×10− 6). In a large post-mortem brain sample from schizophrenia donors (n = 214; CommonMind Consortium), gene expression analysis indicated that the rs79229764 variant allele might be involved in the regulation of GPR88 and PUDP, which plays a role in striatal neurotransmission and intellectual disability, respectively.
Conclusions
We report a suggestive genetic association at the rs79229764 locus with TRS and show that genetic liability for schizophrenia is positively associated with TRS. These results suggest a candidate locus for future follow-up studies to elucidate the molecular underpinnings of TRS. Our findings further demonstrate the value of both single variant and polygenic association analyses for TRS prediction.
Hempcrete housing as a sustainable restoration solution at Novo Mesto, Slovenia: Building towards carbon neutrality performances
Authors: Mani Shivakumar , Zorec Primoz 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Hempcrete is especially attractive to the self-builders and the community groups, because of the relatively low-tech nature of the construction method. It’s now a greater need for the scientific research towards this bio-composite material on its thermal, hygric and carbon sequestration performances. This commercial case study reports the restoration of 80 years old traditional timber structure by hempcrete technology in two phases: 1. Characterization of raw materials adopted for restoration, secondly life cycle analysis performed on the hempcrete and its costing compared with conventional construction. The Slovenian National Building & Civil Engineering Institute (ZAG) reported on the characterization results with the standard U value of 0.085 W/m2K and 0.25 MPa as mechanical strength for the volume hemp lime mix of 260-80Kg/m3. European KIC Climate performed LCA through SIMAPRO software for hemp lime “cradle to door” results revealed the energy consumption, resource cost comparison and carbon neutrality with respect to the conventional methods. Use of Hemp lime predicted the lowest GHG emissions and also to reuse and restore the structure with minimal environmental impacts.
Perceptions of Women regarding the Quality of Family Planning Services for Low-Income Urban Areas of Karachi
Authors: Ahsan Nazia , Saleem Sarah , Abrejo Farina , Memon Zahid 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background:
Family planning (FP) is one of the most important family planning services in Pakistan. The purpose of this study is to comprehensively investigate and understand women's perceptions of family planning service quality in the low-income urban areas of Karachi, Pakistan. This study aims to explore the multifaceted dimensions of FP service quality, including individual experiences, attitudes, and beliefs, through the lens of the Judith Bruce framework. Data was collected using semi-structured interview guides for focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews (IDIs).
Methods:
This is an exploratory qualitative study, 4 focus group discussions and 13 interviews were conducted with married women in the age group of 25-45 years, who were either current users or ever-users of modern contraceptives, living in underserved areas of three Union Councils of Malir Town (Saudabad, Khokhrapar and Kala Board), Karachi. Data were thematically analyzed.
Results:
Family planning quality of care was defined by participants as the quality of healthcare provider communication and counseling skills (i.e. information exchange), and the outcomes of contraceptive use among women with satisfaction to pave the way for continued use of family planning methods. The data showed that women have limited autonomy in their choice of methods and inadequate information on side effects were identified as reasons for discontinuation. Participants emphasized the importance of respectful interactions with providers and clear explanations about methods.
Conclusion:
Utilizing Judith Bruce's frameworkusing a qualitative approach provided fundamental insights into perceptions and barriers to the quality of care for family planning. Recognizing which elements are particular to family planning is essential for advancing contraceptive consequences. Specifically, women's autonomy in choice of contraceptive method, and robust healthcare systems can enhance service delivery, strengthen women-provider relationships, and ultimately contribute to improved reproductive health outcomes for individuals and communities. By prevailing the importance of dignified behavior with the community members, enhancing technical skills, and fostering women's satisfaction, healthcare systems can strive towards providing equitable access to high-quality family planning for women.
Risk factors of pain in radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins of the lower extremity
Authors: Zhang Lifeng , Yang Qifan , Geng Caijuan , Lin Yao , Xie Caiyun , Zhang Junyu , Zeng Wei , Qu Qiang , He Chunshui 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is the recommended first line intervention for varicose veins of the lower extremity. While the infiltration of perivenous tumescent local anaesthesia (TLA) is key to procedural success, it is paradoxically the predominant source of patient reported discomfort.this study focused on patients who experience pain during the TLA process in RFA surgery, analyzed the risk factors that leading to the pain.
Methods
This study is a single-center prospective observational study, During the period from April 2023 to September 2023, a total of 155 patients underwent RFA of great saphenous vein(GSV)/small saphenous vein(SSV). Clinical basic data of the patients were collected. All patients were assessed for Clinical Etiologic Anatomic Pathological (CEAP) classification and GSV/SV diameter was recorded using ultrasound measurements. The surgical procedure involved RFA of the GSV/SSV trunk, recording patients' visual analog scale (VAS) score at four time points during RFA (local anesthesia, injection of tumescent solution, RFA working, end of RFA).
Results
A total of 155 patients were included in the study, with median pain scores of 5 (4, 6) at the time of local anesthesia and injection of tumescent solution, Over 80% of patients had mild to moderate pain.Most of patients had no pain when RFA working and the end of RFA .Male patients experienced higher levels of pain than female patients during TLA (P < 0.01); lower operating room temperature during TLA was associated with higher pain levels (P < 0.01); there was no significant correlation between female childbirth history, BMI, CEAP classification and puncture site (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
Most patients can tolerate the pain during TLA, with a few patients experiencing severe pain but still able to endure until the RFA is completed. At the end of RFA most patients feel no pain, while a very small number of patients have mild pain. The pain during RFA procedures is related to gender and operating room temperature; it is not related to female childbirth history, CEAP classification, BMI and puncture site.