bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Process and Outcome Evaluation of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Think. Test. Treat TB Health Communications Campaign, United States, March–September 2022
Authors: Caruso Elise , Parmer John , Allen Leeanna , Maiuri Allison , Mangan Joan , Bouwkamp Beth , DeLuca Nickolas 
Published: August 2024

Objectives: The Think. Test. Treat TB health communications campaign aims to increase the awareness of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) primarily among people born in the Philippines and Vietnam and other non–US-born groups (consumers) and the health care providers (providers) who serve them. We conducted a process evaluation to assess reach and audience engagement and an outcome evaluation to assess awareness, knowledge, perceptions, and behavioral intentions among audiences of the campaign. Methods: To evaluate the process, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention measured exposure to (eg, with impressions [total advertisements]) and engagement with (eg, online clicks) the campaign during its rollout (March–September 2022). After the rollout, to evaluate outcomes, we administered online surveys to consumers and providers who were exposed and not exposed to the campaign. Results: The Think. Test. Treat TB campaign resulted in >33 million impressions, >2000 materials downloaded from the internet, and >33 000 materials shipped. Of 173 consumers who completed the evaluation survey, 123 (71.1%) were exposed to the campaign, with 108 (87.8%) reporting intention to ask their provider about tuberculosis (TB) during their next visit. Of 44 providers who completed the evaluation survey, 24 (54.5%) did not feel that they were the intended audience of the campaign, yet all felt the campaign materials were relevant to their patients, and 42 (95.5%) felt the materials were relevant to providers who serve patients at risk for TB. Conclusion: The Think. Test. Treat TB campaign was successful in raising awareness of LTBI among the intended audiences. Continuing engagement with key audiences about LTBI to encourage testing and treatment is integral to eliminate TB in the United States.
Numerical investigation on loading pattern of railway concrete slabs
Authors: Liravi Hassan , Khajehdezfuly Amin , Sadeghi Javad , Aela Peyman , Shafieyoon Yazdan , Shiraz Amir A. 
Published: August 2024

Despite the recent surge in the construction of ballastless railway tracks, there exists a notable research gap concerning the rail seat load (RSL) associated with these track types. The RSL is the load transferred from the rail to the fastening system, the plate beneath the rail and the rail pad. The prediction of RSL in ballasted track systems is widely investigated, however, there has been a relative lack of research into the ballastless railway track systems. In this paper, a 2D finite element model (2D FEM) was adopted to evaluate the RSL concerning the effective parameters, including sleeper spacing, fastening system stiffness and the flexural modulus of the rail. The numerical model was validated through a field test performed in the study. Moreover, a mathematical expression was proposed to determine the RSL ratio for concrete slab tracks. The RSL directly correlates with the sleeper spacing and the fastening stiffness, while this relation with the flexural rigidity is inverse. Based on the results, it was found that the RSL ratio obtained from the conventional methods differed considerably from the proposed mathematical expression. More specifically, this difference was observed in almost all of the values in the sleeper spacing and flexural rigidity of rail for the Kerr model except 0.68 m and 5 MN.m2, respectively.
Impact of STIs on cervical cancer screening: Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae in visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) positive women in Mozambique
Authors: Sineque Alberto , Ceffa Susanna , Parruque Fernanda , Guidotti Giovanni , Massango Cacilda , Sidumo Zita , Carrilho Carla , Bicho Clara , Rangeiro Ricardina , Orlando Stefano , Lorenzoni Cesaltina , Ciccacci Fausto 
Published: August 2024

Background Cervical cancer, primarily from HPV, is prevalent in countries like Mozambique, with HIV individuals at higher risk. The Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) screening method can be influenced by STIs like Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG). This study examines CT and NG prevalence in HIV-positive and negative women using VIA in Mozambique’s DREAM program. Methods In this cross-sectional research conducted at a DREAM program facility in Maputo from 01/07/2021 to 31/05/2022, cervical specimens were taken from VIA-positive patients. CT/NG testing was performed using the Cobas® 4800 DNA CT/NG test. Statistical analyses focused on associations and prevalence rates, considering demographic, clinical, and exposure data. Results Among 117 women, we observed a CT prevalence of 6.8% (8/117) and an NG prevalence of 2.6%(3/117). No significant associations between CT/NG infection rates and factors such as age, HIV status, VIA results, or high-risk HPV (hrHPV) was observed. We found a 47% prevalence of hrHPV infections among participants with cervical lesions; no significant association between hrHPV and CT/NG infections was observed. Conclusion This study highlights the prevalence of CT and NG in VIA-positive women in Mozambique, emphasizing the STI burden and suggesting integration of STI screening in cervical cancer prevention strategies.
Malnutrition is Associated With Fatigue and Anxiety in Advanced Cancer Patients Admitted to Home Palliative Care
Authors: Mercadante Sebastiano , Bellavia Giuseppe Massimo , Fusco Flavio , Adamoli Lucia , Scibilia Carla , Lo Cascio Alessio , Casuccio Alessandra 
Published: August 2024

Objective Information regarding the nutrition profile of advanced cancer patients followed at home is lacking. The aim of this study was to assess the nutritional status of patients who were admitted to specialized home palliative care, and examine eventual factors associated with malnutrition. Design Cross-sectional. Setting/subject: patients who were admitted to 2 specialized home palliative care programs. Participants A consecutive sample of patients admitted to home care was selected. Depression, anxiety, nausea, poor appetite, and poor well-being were measured by numerical scale 0-10. Mini nutritional assessment form (MNA-SF), fatigue assessment scale (FAS), and sarcopenia by SARC-F. were performed. The use of drugs used for anorexia, including corticosteroids, progestins, or others, was recorded. Results Data of 135 patients were analyzed. Sixty-eight per cent and 77% of patients resulted to be malnourished and sarcopenic. In the multivariate regression analysis, anxiety ( P = 0.036) and total FAS ( P = 0.013) were independently associated with malnutrition. Fifty-five per cent of patients were receiving corticosteroids or megestol acetate. No significant associations with parameters examined were found. Conclusion The majority of advanced cancer patients admitted to home palliative care were malnourished independently of the primary tumor diagnosis. Indeed, fatigue and anxiety were independently associated with malnutrition.
The Hounsfield Unit Values of Talar Subchondral Bone Predict Articular Cartilage Degeneration in Patients With Ankle Osteoarthritis
Authors: Ishibashi Saori , Nakasa Tomoyuki , Ikuta Yasunari , Kawabata Shingo , Moriwaki Dan , Sakurai Satoru , Adachi Nobuo 
Published: August 2024

Background: Therapeutic strategies for ankle osteoarthritis (OA) are determined based on OA staging, alignment, and articular cartilage conditions. However, it is difficult to evaluate the degeneration of the remaining cartilage using imaging modalities. Subchondral bone plays a crucial role in maintaining cartilage homeostasis. Measurement of local Hounsfield unit (HU) values allows for the quantitative assessment of small changes in the subchondral bone. This study aimed to evaluate a relationship between the HU values of the subchondral bone and the histologic findings of articular cartilage in ankle OA. Methods: The talar articular surface was harvested from 14 ankles during arthroplasty. The talus was divided into anterior, middle, and posterior parts, and histologic specimens were prepared. Safranin O staining was performed and histologic findings were evaluated using the modified Mankin score. The regions of interest (ROIs) were set in the medial, central, and lateral regions of the specimens and computed tomography (CT) images, and the relationship between the HU values and histologic findings was analyzed. Results: As OA progressed, cartilage defects increased. In conjunction with cartilage degeneration, the subchondral bone plate thickened, and the HU values increased. The HU value significantly and positively correlated with the modified Mankin score ( r = 0.756), subchondral bone thickness ( r = 0.674, P < .01), and trabecular bone area ( r = 0.637). The cutoff HU values were 594 (sensitivity, 0.813; specificity, 0.944) for 3 points and 727 (sensitivity, 0.929; specificity, 0.782) for 11 points on the modified Mankin score. Conclusion: Significant correlations between HU values and cartilage degeneration in ankle OA were noted. Measuring HU values on CT images can be useful for evaluating the joint surface condition, including histologic findings of the remaining cartilage.
Applying a Racial Lens to the “Cycle of Violence”
Authors: Widom Cathy Spatz , Allwood Maureen , Chauhan Preeti , Li Xuechen , Courtney Kellie , Are Funlola G. 
Published: August 2024

One overlooked result in a 1989 Science paper on the “cycle of violence” was a race-specific increase in risk for arrest for violence among Black maltreated children, but not White maltreated children. We examine whether race differences in the cycle of violence are explained by risk factors traditionally associated with violence. Using a prospective design, maltreated and non-maltreated children were matched on age, sex, race, and approximate family social class and interviewed at mean age 28.7 years ( N = 1196). Arrest histories were obtained through age 50.5. Regression analyses included maltreatment, race, self-reported violent behavior, and risk factors (e.g., family, school, neighborhood variables). For arrests for violent crime, race was a significant predictor, whereas childhood maltreatment was not significant. For violent arrests, there was a significant race × maltreatment interaction when the total number of risk factors were included controlling for self-reported violent behaviors. For self-reported violent behaviors, childhood maltreatment remained significant for some risk factors. However, race did not predict self-reported violent behaviors. Offending behavior and traditional risk factors did not explain the disproportionate arrests among Black maltreated children. This disparity in the cycle of violence may reflect complex processes influenced by racial bias or structural racism.
Global Public Health Implications of Traffic Related Air Pollution: Systematic Review
Authors: Debelu Desi , Mengistu Dechasa Adare , Aschalew Alemayehu , Mengistie Bizatu , Deriba Wegene 
Published: August 2024

Background: Traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) has significant public health implications and a wide range of adverse health effects, including cardiovascular, respiratory, pulmonary, and other health problems. This study aimed to determine the public health impacts of traffic-related air pollution across the world that can be used as an input for protecting human health. Methods: This study considered studies conducted across the world and full-text articles written in English. The articles were searched using a combination of Boolean logic operators (AND, OR, and NOT), MeSH, and keywords from the included electronic databases (SCOPUS, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Google Scholars). The quality assessment of the articles was done using JBI tools to determine the relevance of each included article to the study. Results: In this study, 1 282 032 participants ranging from 19 to 452 735 were included in 30 articles published from 2010 to 2022. About 4 (13.3%), 9 (30.0%), 12 (40.0%), 8 (26.7%), 2 (6.7%), 15 (50.0%), 3 (10.0%), 3 (10.0%) 1 (3.3%), and 3 (10.0%) of articles reported the association between human health and exposure to CO, PM10, PM2.5, NOx, NO, NO2, black carbon, O3, PAH, and SO2, respectively. Respiratory diseases, cancer, cognitive function problems, preterm birth, blood pressure and hypertension, diabetes, allergies and sensitization, coronary heart disease, dementia incidence, and hemorrhagic stroke were associated with exposure to TRAP. Conclusions: Exposure to nitrogen dioxide, nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, and fine particulate matter was associated with various health effects. This revealed that there is a need for the concerned organizations to respond appropriately.
Nellix Device Failure Mechanisms Analysis on Explanted Grafts
Authors: Christ Léna , Kuntz Salomé , Vakhitov Damir , Raibaut Laurent , Neumann Nicole , Heim Frédéric , Chakfé Nabil , Lejay Anne 
Published: August 2024

Objective: To understand possible reasons for poor durability of the Nellix (Endologix Inc., Irvine, USA) endovascular aneurysm sealing (EVAS) device. Materials and Methods: 21 Nellix endoprostheses explanted for endoleaks and migration underwent visual examinations of stent structures and instrumental examinations of the polymer endobags on 4 devices. We harvested 2.0-gram polymer slices out of each of them and tested the samples in an in vitro implantation replication that included wet and dry exposures. During the wet phase, we placed samples in a beaker with saline, mimicking the filling of the endobags during implantation. An exposure to a 37°C environment with 60% humidity during the dry phase replicated the postimplantation conditions inside the aneurysmal sac. Results: Iatrogenic defects affected 16 (76%) metal stents and 20 (95%) endobags. The polymer was disintegrated owing to degradation in 15 (71%) cases. The polymer could lose more than 70% of its initial weight when partially dehydrated and regain 80% when placed in saline. We observed volume decrease and polymer fragmentation during these study phases. Conclusions: The polymer can lose weight and volume while it dehydrates. This structural degradation of the polymer could lead to the development of endoleaks and/or migration of the device. Clinical Impact Based on the results of previous investigations, due to possible endovascular device degradation, patients with endografts should be offered life-long surveillance, and the Nellix device is no exception. Herein we suggest polymer degradation as one of the possible reasons for the device failure. Although Nellix has been withdrawn from the market, there are numerous patients with this type of endograft. Due to its unpredictable performance in the medium and long term, these patients should be recommended enhanced life-long surveillance every 6 months. Any suspicious conditions during the follow-up must be taken seriously and explantation should be considered.
Pattern of pareses in 5q-spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Uzelac Zeljko , Schwäble Beate , Dorst Johannes , Rosenbohm Angela , Wollinsky Kurt , Wurster Claudia D. , Steinbreier Janna S. , Ludolph Albert C. 
Published: August 2024

Background: This prospective study investigates the pattern of pareses in 5q-associated spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) to identify disease-specific characteristics and potential differences from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinobulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA). Detailed knowledge about pareses patterns in SMA facilitates differential diagnosis and supports therapeutic monitoring. Methods: Between January 2021, and June 2021, 66 SMA patients (59.1% male, aged 33.6 ± 15.2 years) were included in the study. Most patients had SMA type II ( n = 28) or SMA type III ( n = 28), seven patients had SMA type I, and three patients had SMA type IV. We analyzed the pattern of pareses using the UK Medical Research Council (MRC) scoring system. Results: In both, upper and lower limbs muscle weakness was less pronounced in distal (upper limbs: MRC median 3.0 (interquartile range 1.5–3.5); lower limbs: 1.5 (0.5–3.0)) compared to proximal muscle groups (upper limbs: 2.0 (1.5–2.6); p < 0.001; lower limbs: 0.5 (0.5–1.5); p < 0.001). Thenar muscles were stronger than other small hand muscles (3.0 (2.0–3.5) vs 3.0 (1.5–3.5); p = 0.004). Muscles had more strength in upper (2.3 (1.5–3.1)) compared to lower limbs (1.1 (0.5–2.3); p < 0.001) and in flexors compared to extensors. Conclusion: We identified a specific pattern of muscle paresis in SMA which is different from the pattern of paresis in ALS and SBMA. As a rule of thumb, the pattern of pareses is similar, but not identical to ALS in distal, but different in proximal muscle groups.
Bridging the Gap Between Training and Competition in Elite Rink Hockey: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ferraz António , Pérez-Chao Enrique Alonso , Ribeiro João , Spyrou Konstantinos , Freitas Tomás T. , Valente-dos-Santos João , Duarte-Mendes Pedro , Alcaraz Pedro E. , Travassos Bruno 
Published: August 2024

Background: Monitoring training load and competition load is crucial for evaluating and improving athlete performance. This study proposes an applied approach to characterize and classify the training task specificity in relation to competition in a top-level rink hockey team, considering external and internal load from training tasks and competition. Hypothesis: Training tasks and game demands have significant dose-response differences, and exercises can be classified successfully based on their physiological and biomechanical demands. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Level of Evidence: Level 5. Methods: Ten elite-level male rink hockey players participated in this study. Players were monitored on 6 different task categories during 8 training sessions and 2 official games. A linear mixed model with random intercepts was used to compare training tasks and competition load, accounting for individual repeated measures. A 2-step cluster analysis was performed to classify the training tasks and games based on physiological and biomechanical load, employing log-likelihood as the distance measure and Schwartz’s Bayesian criterion. Results: Average heartrate, maximum heartrate, and high-speed skating (18.1-30 km/h) were the best physiological load predictors, while the most effective biomechanical load predictors were impacts [8-10] g(n), decelerations [-10 to -3]m/s²(n), and accelerations [3-10]m/s²(n). Different physiological and biomechanical responses were verified between training tasks and match demands. A 4-quadrant efforts assessment for each task category revealed that training tasks used by the team in the analysis presented lower biomechanical and physiological load demands than competition. Conclusion: Training tasks failed to adequately replicate the specific demands of competition, especially regarding high mechanical stress, such as the absence of high-intensity impacts and decelerations. Clinical Relevance: This method of classification of training tasks may allow coaches to understand further the specificity and contribution of each task to competition demands, consequently improving the capacity of load management and the preparedness and readiness of players for competition.
3D-QSAR, ADMET, and molecular docking studies of aztreonam analogs as E. colis inhibitors
Authors: Mitku Melese Legesse , Simegn Wudneh , Chanie Gashaw Sisay , Mohammed Seid Abdulwase , Beyna Alemante Tafese , Kebad Mengesha Assefa , Melese Mihret , Esubalew Dereje , Gela Yibeltal Yismaw , Ayenew Wondim , Limenh Liknaw Workie 
Published: August 2024

Background: The development of multidrug resistant strains of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli has become a global problem; therefore, the discovery of new antibacterial agents is the only available solution. Objective: To improve and propose new compounds with antibacterial activity, the three-dimensional quantitative structure–activity relationship and molecular docking studies were carried out on Aztreonam analogs as E. coli inhibitors in DNA gyrase B Method: This study’s 3D-Quantitative structure–activity relationship model was created using on the Comparative Molecular Field Analysis and the Comparative Molecular Similarity Indices Analysis. Using the Comparative Molecular Field Analysis ( Q2 = 0.73; R2 = 0.82), excellent predictability was achieved, and the best Comparative Molecular Similarity Indices Analysis model ( Q2 = 0.88; R2 = 0.9). The generated model’s ability to predict outcomes was assessed through external validation using a test set compound and an applicability domain technique. In this study, the steric, electrostatic, and hydrogen bond acceptor fields played a key role in antibacterial activity. Results: The results of the molecular docking revealed that the newly generated compound A6 has the highest binding affinity with DNA gyrase B. It forms 10 hydrogen bonds with amino acid residues of Asn104, Asn274, Asn132, Ser70, Ser237, Thr105, Glu273, and 2 salt bridges with amino acid residues of Ser70 and Glu273 and one pi–pi interacting with Gys271 amino acid residue in the binding site of 5G1, and this result was validated by a new assessment method. We created some novel, highly effective DNA gyrase B inhibitors based on the earlier findings, and the most accurate model predicted their inhibitory actions. The ADMET characteristics and pharmacological similarity of these novel inhibitors were also examined. Conclusion: These findings would be very beneficial in guiding the optimization process for the identification of novel drugs that can address the issue of multiple drug resistance.
Predictive value of isolated very low QRS voltage in tilt-table test for neurally mediated syncope
Authors: Chen Haichao , Cao Yiwei , Liang Lei , Gao Yan , Feng Jing , Zhang Le , Shi Lingxia , Chang Fengjun , Cheng Gong , Wu Haoyu 
Published: August 2024

Objective: The cause of syncope is generally determined based on clinical manifestations. There has been little discussion about the value of electrocardiograms for diagnosing neurally mediated syncope. The aim of this study was to test the predictive value of the isolated very low QRS voltage in tilt-table testing for suspected neurally mediated syncope in a Chinese population. Methods: This retrospective study enrolled patients with suspected neurally mediated syncope. Tilt-table testing was a part of the diagnostic examination. Each patient underwent echocardiography and electrocardiogram. isolated very low QRS voltage referred to a voltage of ⩽0.3 mV for the QRS complex in an isolated frontal lead or ⩽0.7 mV for the QRS complex in an isolated precordial lead. Results: In total, 157 patients were included in the tilt-table testing positive group, and 242 patients were included in the tilt-table testing negative group. Compared with the testing negative group, the testing positive group had more patients with isolated very low QRS voltage in the frontal leads ( p < 0.001). Moreover, for patients with isolated very low QRS voltage in the precordial leads, no significant difference was noted between the testing positive group and testing negative group ( p = 0.289). Isolated very low QRS voltage in the frontal leads demonstrated 84.08% sensitivity and 74.38% specificity for a positive tilt-table testing response. The area under the curve of isolated very low QRS voltage for a positive tilt-table testing response in frontal leads was 0.806 ( p < 0.0001). Conclusion: In patients with suspected neurally mediated syncope, isolated very low QRS voltage in the frontal leads is a parameter that can predict a positive tilt-table testing response. The presence of isolated very low QRS voltage in frontal leads can serve as a parameter for evaluating syncope patients.