bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of comorbidities on patient-reported outcomes in psoriatic arthritis: a single centre cohort study
Authors: Biedroń Grzegorz , Wilk Mateusz , Nowakowski Jarosław , Kuszmiersz Piotr , Guła Zofia , Strach Magdalena , Brkic Alen , Haugeberg Glenn , Korkosz Mariusz 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Comorbidities are frequent in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and may contribute to worse health-related outcomes. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are used to evaluate the burden of the assessed disease. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of comorbidities on selected PROs in PsA.

Methods
Adult patients, diagnosed with PsA, based on CASPAR criteria, were included in this cross-sectional, observational study. Collected data encompassed the comorbidities and PROs (Health Assessment Questionnaire [HAQ], Multi-Dimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire [MDHAQ], 36-Item Short Form Health Survey [SF-36]). Standard statistic methods were performed for data assessment.

Results
There were 267 participants included in the study (54.7% females). The most prevalent comorbidities were cardiovascular diseases (CVD) (29.2 %). Multimorbidity was observed in 50.2% cases and was associated with poorer results of SF-36 questionnaire, regarding bodily pain (34.7 [30.1, 39.3] vs. 47.5 [43.1, 52.0]; p<0.01), physical functioning (52.1 [47.3, 56.9] vs. 63.1 [58.9, 67.4]; p<0.01) and role physical (28.5 [21.2, 35.9] vs. 42.8 [35.2, 50.4]; p<0.01). CVD were associated with poorer MDHAQFn score (β=0.17, p<0.01), while mental disorders negatively influenced mental health (β= -0.35, p<0.01), vitality (β= -0.22, p<0.01), general health (β= -0.19, p<0.01), social functioning (β= -0.15, p=0.04) and role emotional (β= -0.30, p<0.01) dimensions of SF-36.

Conclusions
Multimorbidity exerts significant impact on physical aspects of quality of life (QoL) in PsA. CVD and mental disorders adversely influence functional capacity as well as mental and social dimensions of QoL, respectively. The impact of comorbidities should be taken into account by clinicians and researchers assessing PROs.
The positive effect of pulse electromagnetic field therapy on pain and disability in chronic low back pain: a comparative study
Authors: Öztürk Gülşah Yaşa , Yetişir Ayşegül , Kocyigit Burhan Fatih 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Low back pain that lasts longer than three months is called chronic low back pain. Chronic low back pain is among the most common problems in the world, causing severe disability and loss of employment in patients.

Objective
To investigate the effect of pulse electromagnetic field therapy (PEMFT) added to routine physical therapy on pain and functional status in patients with chronic low back pain.

Methods
This retrospective comparative study included 69 patients with chronic low back pain. The patients were divided into two groups: those who received lumbar transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, infrared, and ultrasound treatments, and those who additionally received PEMFT. The files of patients with chronic low back pain were reviewed, and those who had been evaluated using the Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale (QBPDS) in terms of functional capacity and effects of low back pain and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain both before and after treatment were included in the study.

Results
No significant difference was detected between the two groups’ pretreatment VAS and QBPDS scores (p > 0.05). The second-and-third measurement scores of both groups were significantly lower than their first-measurement VAS and QBPDS scores (p ˂ 0.001), but there was no significant difference between their second- and third-measurement scores (p > 0.05). According to the inter-group comparison of the VAS and QBPDS scores, the second and third-measurement scores of the PEMFT group were significantly lower than those of the control group (p ˂ 0.001).

Conclusions
PEMFT seems to be able to alleviate pain intensity and ameliorate disability in patients with chronic low back pain. PEMFT can be considered an effective and safe option that can be added to routine physical therapy modalities for relieving chronic low back pain frequently encountered in clinical practice. Further studies validating the effectiveness of PEMFT could strengthen its position in the management of chronic low back pain.
The Burning Number Conjecture is True for Trees without Degree-2 Vertices
Authors: Murakami Yukihiro 
Published: June 2024

AbstractGraph burning is a discrete time process which can be used to model the spread of social contagion. One is initially given a graph of unburned vertices. At each round (time step), one vertex is burned; unburned vertices with at least one burned neighbour from the previous round also becomes burned. The burning number of a graph is the fewest number of rounds required to burn the graph. It has been conjectured that for a graph on n vertices, the burning number is at most $$\lceil \sqrt{n}\rceil $$

⌈

n

⌉

. We show that the graph burning conjecture is true for trees without degree-2 vertices.
Transport of plant growth promoting bacteria (Azospirillum brasilense) in sand under transient water flow: effect of inoculation regime
Authors: Chen Fengxian , Ronen Zeev , Arye Gilboa 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAzospirillum brasilense strains Sp7 and Cd are commonly employed plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) that produce phytohormones and fix nitrogen. The two basic methods of PGPB soil inoculation are direct mixing with the soil and irrigation with liquid inoculants. The integration of drip irrigation with delivering plant growth-promoting bacteria in desert areas with sandy soil is becoming more common. With the drip irrigation system, the mobility of PGPB in the sandy soil determines the range of root zone inoculation. Therefore, we examined the transport and fate of PGPB under transient water flow conditions in a 30-cm high segmented sand column with three sand-inoculation regimes: (1) surface irrigation, (2) subsurface irrigation, and (3) sand premixing. The water, bromide, and bacterial distribution in the sand profile was measured at 2 and 48 h after irrigation. The measured data were described using the attachment/detachment numerical model using the HYDRUS 2/3D code. Results showed that even though A. brasilense Sp7 and Cd exhibit similar hydrophilicities and zeta potentials, their deposition in the sand profile differs. Strain Cd consists of smaller cells that undergo less adsorption and less straining than strain Sp7, and the former’s vertical movement therefore reaches greater depths under surface- and subsurface-inoculation regimes. Nevertheless, most of the PGPB accumulated near the water source. In the sand-premixing inoculation regime, the bacteria barely moved at all. Overall, when the target root zone was deep, subsurface-irrigation inoculation worked better than the other two inoculation regimes, because it was more likely to deliver large amounts of PGPB to the root zone. Furthermore, the first-order attachment model optimized two parameters (first-order attachment coefficient and die-off rate) and well simulated the bacterial vertical movement in the surface- and subsurface-inoculation regimes (R2 > 0.91).
Effectiveness of two-dimensional shear-wave sonoelastography in the diagnosis and follow-up of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Authors: Demir Sabri , Unlu Havva Akmaz , Kiris Uzun Gulsah , Oztorun Can Ihsan , Erturk Ahmet , Azili Mujdem Nur , Senel Emrah 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Introduction
We sought to determine the effectiveness and utility of two-dimensional shear-wave sonoelastography (2D-SW-SE) in the diagnosis and postoperative follow-up of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS).

Materials and Methods
Twenty-three infants were included in the study, 13 in the IHPS group and 10 in the control group (CG). Preoperative B-mode ultrasonography measurements (longitudinal length and single-wall thickness of the pylorus) and 2D-SW-SE measurements (pylorus tissue stiffness and shear-wave propagation speed) were compared between the groups. The infants with IHPS then underwent Ramstedt pyloromyotomy and were invited for follow-ups on the tenth day and the first, third, and sixth months postoperatively. Measurements taken at the follow-ups were compared with the preoperative values.

Results
No differences were found between the groups regarding age, gender, body weight, or week of birth. The pyloric lengths in the IHPS group were longer than in the CG (p < 0.001), and the single-wall thicknesses were thicker (p < 0.001). The pylorus in the IHPS group was four times stiffer than in the CG (27.4 kPa versus 7.66 kPa), and the shear-wave propagation speed in the tissue was higher (1.34 m/s versus 2.69 m/s; p < 0.001). Both values decreased over time in the IHPS group and were normal by the third postoperative month.

Conclusions
2D-SW-SE can be used as an assistive imaging tool alongside B-mode ultrasound for diagnosing IHPS. It can also be used to identify inadequate surgery by detecting whether the pyloric tissue has softened at follow-up.
New uracil analog as inhibitor/modulator of ABC transporters or/and NF-κB in taxol-resistant MCF-7/Tx cell line
Authors: Długosz-Pokorska Angelika , Janecki Tomasz , Janecka Anna , Gach-Janczak Katarzyna 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Purpose
The global increase in breast cancer cases necessitates ongoing exploration of advanced therapies. Taxol (Tx), an initial breast cancer treatment, induces mitotic arrest but faces limitations due to side effects and the development of resistance. Addressing Tx resistance involves understanding the complex molecular mechanisms, including alterations in tubulin dynamics, NF-κB signaling, and overexpression of ABC transporters (ABCB1 and ABCG2), leading to multidrug resistance (MDR).

Methods
Real-time PCR and ELISA kits were used to analyze ABCB1, ABCG2 and NF-κB gene and protein expression levels, respectively. An MDR test assessed the resistance cell phenotype.

Results
MCF-7/Tx cells exhibited a 24-fold higher resistance to Tx. Real-time PCR and ELISA analysis revealed the upregulation of ABCB1, ABCG2, and NF-κB. U-359 significantly downregulated both ABCB1 and ABCG2 gene and protein levels. Co-incubation with Tx and U-359 further decreased the mRNA and protein expression of these transporters. The MDR test indicated that U-359 increased MDR dye retention, suggesting its potential as an MDR inhibitor. U-359 and Tx, either individually or combined, modulated NF-κBp65 protein levels.

Conclusion
The development of a Taxol-resistant MCF-7 cell line provided valuable insights. U-359 demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the expression of ABC transporters and NF-κB, suggesting a potential solution for overcoming multidrug resistance in breast cancer cells. The study recommends a strategy to enhance the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy by integrating U-359 with traditional drugs.
Clinical risk factors and cancer risk of thyroid imaging reporting and data system category 4 A thyroid nodules
Authors: Cheng Jing , Han Bing , Chen Yingchao , Li Qin , Xia Wenwen , Wang Ningjian , Lu Yingli 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Beyond the Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TIRADS) classification of thyroid nodules, additional factors must be weighed in the decision to perform fine needle aspiration (FNA). In this study, we aimed to identify risk factors for malignancy in patients with ultrasound-classified Chinese-TIRADS (C-TIRADS) 4 A nodules.

Methods
Patients who underwent thyroid FNA at our institution between May 2021 and September 2022 were enrolled. We collected demographic data, including age, sex, previous radiation exposure, and family history. An in-person questionnaire was used to collect lifestyle data, such as smoking habits and alcohol consumption. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated. The serum levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb), and thyroglobulin antibody (TGAb) were measured. Prior to FNA, ultrasonic inspection reports were reviewed. The cytologic diagnoses for FNA of thyroid nodules followed the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (2017).

Results
Among the 252 C-TIRADS 4 A nodules, 103 were malignant. Compared to those in the benign group, the patients in the malignant group had a younger age (42.2 ± 13.6 vs. 51.5 ± 14.0 years, P < 0.001). Logistic regression showed that advanced age was associated with a lower risk of malignancy in C-TIRADS 4 A nodules (OR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.93 ~ 0.97, P < 0.001). We demonstrated a decreased risk of malignancy in patients with 48.5 years or older.

Conclusion
Advanced age was associated with a decreased risk of malignancy in patients with C-TIRADS 4 A nodules. This study indicated that in addition to sonographic characteristics, patient age should be considered when assessing the risk of malignancy.
Adherence to oral anticancer treatments: network and sentiment analysis exploring perceived internal and external determinants in patients with metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Masiero M. , Spada G. E. , Fragale E. , Pezzolato M. , Munzone E. , Sanchini V. , Pietrobon R. , Teixeira L. , Valencia M. , Machiavelli A. , Woloski R. , Marzorati C. , Pravettoni G. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Adherence to oral anticancer treatments (OATs) is a critical issue in metastatic breast cancer (MBC) to enhance survivorship and quality of life. The study is aimed to analyze the main themes and attributes related to OATs in MBC patients. This research is part of a project titled “Enhancing Therapy Adherence Among Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients" designed to produce a predictive model of non-adherence, a decision support system, and guidelines to improve adherence to OATs.

Methods
The study consists of an exploratory observational and qualitative analysis using a focus group method. A semi-structured interview guide was developed to handle relevant OAT themes. Wordcloud plots, network analysis, and sentiment analysis were performed.

Results
Nineteen female MBC patients participated in the protocol (age mean 55.95, SD = 6.87). Four main themes emerged: (theme 1) individual clinical pathway; (theme 2) barriers to adherence; (theme 3) resources to adherence; (theme 4) patients’ perception of new technologies. The Wordcloud and network analysis highlighted the important role of treatment side effects and the relationship with the clinician in the modulation of adherence behavior. This result is consistent with the sentiment analysis underscoring patients experience fear of issues related to clinical values and ineffective communication and discontinuity of the doctor in charge of the patient care.

Conclusion
The study highlighted the key role of the individual, relational variables, and side effects as internal and external determinants influencing adherence to MBC. Finally, the opportunity offered by eHealth technology to connect with other patients with similar conditions and share experiences could be a relief for MBC patients.
Low-Energy Theorems for Neutron–Proton Scattering in $$\chi $$EFT Using a Perturbative Power Counting
Authors: Thim Oliver 
Published: June 2024

AbstractLow-energy theorems (LETs) for effective-range parameters in nucleon-nucleon scattering encode properties of the long-range part of the nuclear force. We compute LETs for S-wave neutron–proton scattering using chiral effective field theory with a modified version of Weinberg power counting. Corrections to the leading order amplitude are included in distorted-wave perturbation theory and we incorporate contributions up to the third order in the power counting. We find that LETs in the $$^1S_0$$

1

S
0

and $$^3S_1$$

3

S
1

partial waves agree well with empirical effective-range parameters. At the same time, phase shifts up to laboratory scattering energies of about 100 MeV can be reproduced. We show that it is important to consider the pion mass splitting in the one-pion exchange potential in the $$^1S_0$$

1

S
0

partial wave while the effect is negligible in the $$^3S_1$$

3

S
1

partial wave. We conclude that pion exchanges, as treated in this power counting, accurately describe the long-range part of the S-wave nuclear interaction.
Predicting Mechanical Properties of Carbonate Rocks Using Spectroscopy Across 0.4–12 μm
Authors: Bakun-Mazor D. , Ben-Ari Y. , Marco S. , Ben-Dor E. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractDetermining the mechanical characteristics of rocks is crucial in various civil engineering sectors. Traditionally, the mechanical properties of rocks are determined through on-site and laboratory tests carried out during geotechnical surveys. However, these extensive surveys require considerable time and resources. In contrast, hyperspectral remote sensing techniques offer a rapid and simple means to determine the mineral composition and crystallographic structure of rocks. These features, in turn, influence the rocks' mechanical properties. This study focuses on characterizing the mechanical properties of carbonate rocks in a laboratory setting, using hyperspectral sensors. Approximately 150 cylindrical carbonate rock samples, spanning a wide strength range, were collected from diverse Israeli rock outcrops. Employing a point spectrometer (0.4 to 2.5 µm) and a spectral image sensor (8.0 to 12.0 µm), we captured samples' light reflections and spectral emissivity. Mechanical attributes, including density, porosity, water absorption, and uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), were measured. Advanced data mining techniques identified statistical correlations between hyperspectral signatures and mechanical properties, pinpointing key wavelengths for prediction. The developed models exhibited excellent predictability for the specified properties, attributing accuracy to discernible mineralogy and internal crystalline structure through spectroscopy. However, predicting UCS showed slightly weaker results due to influences from internal flaws not entirely reflected in spectroscopic data. Nonetheless, outcomes regarding rock UCS were deemed satisfactory. These findings open avenues for non-destructive tools in assessing the mechanical properties of rocks in quarrying operations.
Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in managing acute respiratory distress syndrome associated with hemolytic uremic syndrome and septic shock: a case report
Authors: Kinoshita Genta , Ito-Masui Asami , Kato Takafumi , Okuno Fumito , Ikejiri Kaoru , Ishikura Ken , Suzuki Kei 
Published: June 2024

AbstractVeno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) is a rescue therapy for severe respiratory failure in which conventional mechanical ventilation therapy is unsuccessful. Hemolysis during VV-ECMO support arises from multiple factors associated with organ damage and poor outcomes. Therefore, close and prompt monitoring is needed. Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is characterized by hemolysis, acute renal failure, and thrombocytopenia. Hemolytic features of the disease may complicate VV-ECMO management. A 26-year-old man with a history of cerebral palsy underwent VV-ECMO for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to septic shock caused by bacterial translocation during treatment for HUS. He showed features of hemolysis, with elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), fragmented red blood cells, and low haptoglobin levels. Plasma free hemoglobin was measured daily throughout the whole course of ECMO with levels higher than 10 mg/dL but not exceeding 50 mg/dL. The extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) circuit pressures were carefully monitored to ensure the pump generated no excessive negative pressure. The patient was weaned off ECMO on the eleventh day. There have been several cases of VA-ECMO in patients with HUS; however, there is limited literature on VV-ECMO. As the days on VV-ECMO tend to be longer than those on VA-ECMO, features of hemolysis may complicate management. Although HUS did not directly influence the clinical course in the present case, features of hemolysis were continuously observed. This case highlighted the importance of standard ECMO monitoring, especially daily measurement of plasma free hemoglobin.
The effect of virtual reality interventions on reducing pain intensity in chronic pain patients: a systematic review
Authors: Giacomelli L. , Martin Sölch C. , Ledermann K. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe use of virtual reality (VR) for the management of chronic pain is an intriguing topic. Given the abundance of VR stuies and the numerous opportunities presented by this technology in healthcare, a systematic review that focuses on VR and its applications in chronic pain is necessary to shed light on the various modalities available and their actual effectiveness. This systematic review aims to explore the efficacy of reducing pain and improving pain management through CR interventions for people suffering from chronic pain. Following the PRISMA guidelines, data collection was conducted between December 2020 and February 2021 from the following databases: Cochrane Evidence, JSTOR, Science Direct, PubMed Medline, PubMed NIH, Springer Link, PsychNET, PsychINFO - OVID and PsycARTICLES, Wiley Online Library, Web of Science, ProQuest - MEDLINE®, Sage Journals, NCBI – NLM catalog, Medline OVID, Medline EBSCO, Oxford Handbooks Online, PSYNDEX OVID, Google Scholar. Seventeen articles were included in the qualitative synthesis. Our results highlight that VR interventions, on a global scale, lead to an improvement in pain-related variables, particularly in reducing pain intensity. However, the analyzed articles vary significantly, making them challenging to compare. Future studies could focus on specific types of VR interventions to reduce heterogeneity and conduct a more specific analysis. In conclusion, VR interventions have demonstrated their validity and adaptability as a method for managing chronic pain. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to delve into the various categories of VR interventions in more detail.
“Catheter replacement in catheter-associated urinary tract infection: current state of evidence “
Authors: Westgeest Annette C. , van Uhm Janneke I.M. , Pattacini Laura , Rozemeijer Wouter , Schout Barbara M.A. , Groenwold Rolf H.H. , Geerlings Suzanne E. , Lambregts Merel M.C. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Catheter associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) is the most common healthcare associated infection. A significant knowledge gap exists regarding the necessity of catheter replacement as part of CAUTI treatment. Current guidelines recommend replacement for faster recovery and to prevent recurrences, but adherence is low. In this systematic review, we aimed to assess the available evidence regarding catheter replacement for CAUTI.

Materials and methods
Eligible studies investigated the effect of catheter replacement in CAUTI on clinical outcomes and/or recurrence rates, irrespective of catheter type or setting. We searched electronic literature databases from inception to October 15th, 2023. Information was extracted regarding setting, eligibility criteria, definition of CAUTI, timing of replacement, and outcomes.

Results
Of the 257 identified studies, four were considered relevant and included. Two were randomized controlled trials (RCT) and two were observational studies. One RCT showed higher rates of clinical recovery and lower recurrence rates in the replacement group, while results of the other RCT favoured retainment, with a lower recurrence rate in the retainment group, although longer antimicrobial treatment in this group. Two observational studies were inconclusive.

Conclusions
Current guidelines rely heavily on recommendations from a single study, emphasizing the need for further research. The burden of catheter replacement, including patient discomfort and resource impact, warrants careful consideration. A randomized trial is essential to provide more evidence on the effect of catheter replacement on clinical outcomes including CAUTI recurrence.