bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association between left atrial function and outcome in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Giucă Adrian , Galloo Xavier , Meucci Maria C. , Butcher Steele C , Popescu Bogdan A. , Jurcuț Ruxandra , Săftoiu Adrian , Jurcuț Ciprian , Groșeanu Laura , Ahmed Saad , Vries-Bouwstra Jeska , Bax Jeroen J. , Marsan Nina Ajmone 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose:
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystemic autoimmune disorder in which cardiac involvement is frequent and portends negative prognosis. Left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction is one of the most common cardiac alterations in these patients and left atrial (LA) reservoir strain (ƐR) measurement using speckle tracking echocardiography has been proposed as a novel parameter for a better assessment of LV diastolic function. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test the prognostic value of ƐR in a large multicenter cohort of SSc patients.
Methods and results:
In total, 311 SSc patients (54 ± 14 years, 85% female) were included from two different centers. Echocardiography was performed at the time of first visit, including ƐR measurement. Over a median follow-up of 132 (interquartile range: 110 to 157) months, 67 (21.5%) patients experienced the outcome of all-cause mortality. Spline curve analysis identified an optimal cut-off value of 30% for ƐR, and patients with ƐR ≤30% showed a 10-year cumulative survival rate of 71% as compared to 88% for patients with ƐR >30% (log-rank p < 0.001). At the multivariable Cox regression analysis, ƐR was independently associated with the endpoint (HR 1.830; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.031–3.246; p = 0.039) together with age (HR 1.071, 95% CI 1.043 to 1.099; p < 0.001), sex (female) (HR 0.444, 95% CI 0.229 to 0.861; p = 0.016), and diffusing lung capacity for carbon monoxide (HR 0.969 95% CI 0.956 to 0.982; p < 0.001).
Conclusion:
ƐR is of independent prognostic value in SSc and might help optimizing risk stratification in these patients.
Rotational Thromboelastometry (ROTEM) reduces the need for pre-emptive transfusion in cirrhosis: A randomized controlled Trial (NCT:05698134).
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Ng Xiang Long Louis , Wong Yu Jun , Tan Chin Kimg , Wang Louis Zizhao , Qiu Tian Yu , Wong Benny , Lin Kenneth Weicong , Li James Weiquan , Kwek Andrew Boon Eu , Ang Tiing Leong , Gokhle Roshni Sadashiv , Sivanath Tirukonda Prasanna 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Backgrounds and Aim: Viscoelastic tests (VET) like Rotational Thromboelastometry (ROTEM) assess global hemostasis in cirrhosis. We aimed to assess whether ROTEM-guided blood product transfusion results in lower blood product requirement in patients with cirrhosis undergoing elective invasive procedures as compared to standard of care (SOC) based on conventional coagulation test (CCT).Methods In this open label randomized controlled trial, patients with cirrhosis and abnormal CCT who were undergoing an invasive procedure were randomized to receive blood products either by ROTEM-guidance or SOC. The primary outcome was the difference in blood products (fresh frozen plasma (FFP) or platelets) transfused between the group. The secondary outcome was procedure-related bleeding or complications within 7 days of the procedure. The trial protocol is registered at clinicaltrails.gov; NCT05698134.Results From August 2021 to January 2023, a total of 40 patients were recruited (ROTEM: (n = 20) and SOC (n = 20)). The trial was terminated earlier during interim analyses due to compelling benefit in the ROTEM group after a scheduled interim analysis. The ROTEM group required substantially less blood transfusion than the SOC group (40% [8/20] vs 100% [20/20], p < 0.001). The benefit was consistent across all types of blood product including fresh frozen plasma (< 0.001) and pooled platelet (p = 0.046). No patients experienced clinically significant bleeding events. Transfusion associated adverse events occurred in one patient (5%) in the SOC group (allergic reaction) and none in ROTEM group (p = NS). The mortality in both groups at 30 and 90 days were similar.Conclusions Viscoelastic tests like ROTEM provides global assessment of hemostasis in patients with cirrhosis. Institution of ROTEM based transfusion strategy significantly reduces the need for blood product transfusion in patients with cirrhosis undergoing elective procedure without any increased risk of bleeding events.
Malnutrition and associated factors among hospitalized adult patients at a tertiary hospital, Northern Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Okello Samuel , Muyambi Victor , Agaba David Collins , Ogwal Jimmy Odongo , Semuwemba John , Ouma Ronald Omolo , Musinguzi Marvin , Awilli Rebecca , Emmanuel Ekung , Migisha Richard 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Malnutrition among hospitalized patients is associated with suboptimal recovery, unfavorable prognosis and increased mortality. However, malnutrition in hospitalized patients is often overlooked, underdiagnosed, and frequently inadequately addressed in clinical practice. We determined the prevalence and associated factors of malnutrition in hospitalized adult patients at Lira Regional Referral Hospital (LRRH), Uganda.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study at medical wards of LRRH during November and December 2023. The study included patients aged ≥18years through consecutive sampling method. We excluded those who were too unwell to respond to the research questions. Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics were obtained through interviewer-administered questionnaires. Malnutrition was assessed using the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST), which utilizes body mass index (BMI) scores for classification. Individuals with BMI scores <18.5 kg/m² were categorized as undernourished, those with BMI scores <18.5 kg/m² or ≥25 kg/m² were classified as malnourished, and BMI scores of 18.5-24.9 kg/m² were considered normal. Malnutrition was further categorized based on weight loss percentages, using the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) tool: normal (weight loss 0-<5%), mild/moderate (weight loss 5-10%), and severe (weight loss >10%). Modified Poisson regression was used to evaluate associations between undernutrition and independent variables.
Results: In total, 423 patients were recruited with median age of 40 (inter-quartile range [IQR]: 24-63) years; 223 (53%) were female. Overall, 176 (42%, 95% CI: 37-46%) had malnutrition; 116 (27%) were undernourished, 73 (17%) were mild/moderately undernourished, and 43 (10%) severely undernourished. Being aged >64 years (aPR 1.19, 95% CI: 1.01- 1.39), and having adequate dietary intake (aPR 0.91, 95% CI: 0.82-0.99), were independently associated with under-nutrition.
Conclusion: Approximately 4 out of every 10 patients screened at LRRH had malnutrition. Patients of advanced age were more likely to be undernourished, while those with adequate dietary intake were less likely to be undernourished. The high prevalence of malnutrition highlights the need for increased attention to nutritional assessment and intervention in clinical practice, particularly for older patients. Adequate dietary intake and post-discharge nutritional interventions could reduce the magnitude of under-nutrition and potentially enhance clinical outcomes in this setting.
Unraveling Heterogeneous Malaria Transmission Dynamics in the Peruvian Amazon: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Pinedo-Cancino Viviana , Arista Katty M. , Baldeviano G. Christian , Saavedra-Langer Rafael , Arana Andrei , Vásquez-Chasnamote Maria E. , Valle-Campos Andree , Castro Juan C. , Ventocilla Julio A. , Smith Edward S. , Lescano Andres G. , Ruíz-Mesia Lastenia 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Malaria continues to pose a significant public health challenge in the Loreto region of the Peruvian Amazon, prompting the implementation of the "Plan Malaria Cero" to minimize cases and eliminate malaria in the region. However, the need for reliable diagnostic tools to monitor changes in transmission intensity and guide interventions remains a critical concern.
Methods
A cross-sectional malaria survey was conducted in the Zungarococha community, comprising four villages, utilizing microscopic, molecular, and serological techniques to evaluate the intensity of malaria transmission. Statistical analysis, including multivariate-adjusted analysis, seroprevalence curves, and spatial clustering analysis were conducted to assess malaria prevalence, exposure, and risk factors.
Results
The survey revealed a high prevalence of asymptomatic infections of 6% by microscopy and 18% by PCR, indicating a higher sensitivity of molecular methods in detecting asymptomatic infections. Seroprevalence varied significantly between villages, reflecting heterogeneous malaria transmission dynamics. Multivariate analysis identified age, village, and limited bednet usage as significant risk factors for malaria infection and species-specific exposure. Seroprevalence curves demonstrated community-specific patterns, with LL and PA showing the highest seroconversion rates for both Plasmodium species.
Conclusions
The study highlights the diversity of malaria transmission in the Loreto region, with pronounced heterogeneity as transmission rates decline, particularly in residual malaria scenarios. The use of molecular and serological techniques enhances the detection of current infections and past exposure, aiding in the identification of epidemiological risk factors. These findings underscore the importance of employing molecular and serological tools to characterize malaria transmission patterns in low-endemicity areas, which is crucial for regions implementing or planning targeted interventions and elimination strategies in malaria-endemic areas, such as the PMC in the Peruvian Amazon.
Association between weight-adjusted-waist index and cardiovascular diseases: a cross-sectional study based on RaNCD cohort data
Authors: Sadafi Sepehr , Azizi Ali , Shakiba Ebrahim , Pasdar Yahya 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: The weight-adjusted-waist index (WWI) is a relatively new index to measurment obesity. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between WWI and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Methods: This cross-sectional study included 8,899 participants from the Ravansar non-communicable diseases study (RaNCD) cohort study. The WWI was calculated by dividing waist circumference (WC) by the square root of weight. CVD is described as having a history of stroke, ischemic heart disease (IHD), angina, heart failure, myocardial infarction (MI), or using medication for CVD. The study utilized multiple logistic regression to assess the association between WWI and CVD.
Results: The average age of the participants was 47.52± 8.29 years, 45.30% were men and 41.13% were rural residents. The prevalence of CVD was 17.36%. A positive association between WWI and CVD was observed. Participants in the highest quartile of WWI had a 36% (OR= 1.36, 95%CI:1.11, 1.78) higher odds of CVD than those in the lowest quartile (OR= 1.03, 95%CI: 0.79, 1.33) (Ptrend= 0.010). The subgroup analyses revealed stronger associations between WWI and CVD in participants older than 50 years of age, male, urban residents, high SES, and passive smokers (P<0.001). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis indicated that WWI has a greater ability to predict CVD (AUC: 0.64, 95%CI: 0.61, 0.64) compared to body mass index (BMI) (AUC: 0.60, 95%CI: 0.58, 0.61) and WC (AUC: 0.61, 95%CI: 0.59, 0.62).
Conclussion: The association between higher WWI and an increased risk of CVD suggests that WWI management is crucial for preventing CVD.
Long non-coding RNA HOTAIR promotes breast cancer progression and metastasis, induces ferroptosis by regulating the miR-206/CERS2 axis
Authors: wu wei , Yao Zhihan , Chen Yongxing , Xu Rongxuan , Jin Chenxin , cui jiaxue , Diao Yizhuo , Wang Ruiqi , Li Xiaofeng 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Ferroptosis, a novel form of regulated cell death induced by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, plays an essential role in tumor development and drug resistance. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) has been reported to regulate the cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of tumor cells. However, the function and molecular mechanism of HOTAIR in regulating ferroptosis in tumors remain unclear.
Methods: In this study, we analyzed transcriptome data from TCGA and FerrDb databases using R 4.3.1 and constructed a ceRNA network using Cytoscape 3.9.0. And investigate the effects of HOTAIR on breast cancer cells' proliferation, migration, invasion and ferroptosis through loss-of-function and gain experiments. We used subcellular localization prediction of genes, RNA immunoprecipitation assays, bioinformatics databases as well as RT-qPCR to elucidate the underlying mechanism of HOTAIR-induced competitive endogenous RNA regulatory network.
Results: The functional tests showed that high expression levels of HOTAIR can promote breast cancer cell lines' proliferation, migration and invasion; thus it can be considered a pro-cancer regulator for breast cancer progression. Moreover, HOTAIR is highly expressed in breast cancer cell lines compared with normal tissues; patients exhibiting high HOTAIR expression have advanced clinical stages with numerous lymph node metastases leading to poor overall survival rates. Considering BRCA patients' clinical findings being insensitive to chemotherapy or immunotherapy, ferroptosis induction may be a promising therapeutic strategy for BRCA patients with high expression level of HOTAIR.
Conclusions: Mechanistically, HOTAIR competitively interacts with miR-206 to up-regulate CERS2's expression participating in regulating ferroptosis in breast cancer cells.
The Impact of a Creativity Camp Intervention on Depression and Well-Being in Adolescents
Authors: Cullen Kathryn , DiMaggio-Potter Michaelle E. , Klimes-Dougan Bonnie , Bernstein Gail A. , Koutstaal Wilma , Reigstad Kristina , Padilla Laura , Mueller Bryon , Wu Peng , Schneck David , Abebaw Eyerusalem , Fiecas Mark , Asojo Abimbola , Mejia Angie , Oicherman Boris , Taniguchi Yuko 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Depression is a serious public health problem that often emerges during adolescence. Many adolescents do not respond to standard treatments, necessitating the development of novel interventions. We conducted a preliminary study to assess the impact of a creative arts intervention on depression and well-being in adolescents.
Methods: Sixty-nine adolescents 12-17 years completed an eight-day “Creativity Camp” intervention encompassing multiple creative activities. Self-report questionnaires to measure depression, anxiety, and well-being were administered at five time points to allow examination of change across multiple temporal segments: the two weeks before camp, the two weeks of camp, the two weeks after camp, and the 6 months after camp. Additionally, while all adolescents in the study participated in camp, they were assigned to one of two groups to compare change observed during the pre-camp period in one group to the during-camp period in the other group.
Results: According to both parent and child reports, pre-to-post-camp, mean adolescent depressive symptoms significantly decreased, and well-being significantly increased, and these changes were sustained two weeks after camp and at the 6-month follow-up. Comparison of change in the pre-camp period to the change observed pre-post camp was significant for parent-reported depression.
Conclusions: Preliminary evidence suggests that the Creativity Camp intervention may positively impact adolescent depression and well-being. This evidence highlights the importance of investigating and implementing treatment approaches focusing on creative arts for adolescents with depression.
Strategic Integration of Graphene into Multilayer Photoanode; Enhancing Efficiency of Quasi-Solid-State Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells Under Ambient and Low Irradiance
Authors: Bandara T. M. W. J. , Gunathilake S. M. S. , Gamachchi G. G. D. M. G. , Pemasiri B. M. K , DeSilva L. Ajith , Dissanayake M. A. K. L. , Kumara G. R. A. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Graphene is a potential candidate material to boost efficiency in solar cells. The performance of multi-layer TiO2 photoanode based quasi-solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is improved by strategically integrating graphene into the appropriate layer of the photoanode. For this purpose, graphene was synthesized from vein graphite, received directly from the mine site, providing a cost-effective, feasible and new approach to enhance DSSC efficiency. Raman and XRD spectra confirm the successful exfoliation of graphite, forming graphene. Graphene integration into layers was analyzed using SEM images. The cells were constructed using photosensitized spin-coated TiO2 multilayer photoanode, Pt counter-electrode, and binary salts gel-polymer electrolyte. Appreciable performance improvement was observed when graphene was added to the fourth layer of the photoanode. The quasi-solid-state DSSC without graphene demonstrated 5.50% efficiency, 700 mA open circuit voltage, 11.04 mA cm-2 short circuit current density and 71.2% fill factor under 1000 W m-2 irradiation. In contrast, the DSSC improved by graphene exhibited 6.8% efficiency, 13.4 mA cm-2 short circuit current density, 770 mA open circuit voltage and 66.2% fill factor under 1000 Wm-2 irradiation. Furthermore, the efficiency and fill factor increase were observed when the irradiance decreased. The DSSC exhibited a remarkable efficiency of 9.4% under 67 W m-2 irradiance. Achieving higher efficiency for quasi-soid state configuration without relying on volatile solvent-based electrolytes is another significance of this study. The study uncovers that the strategic incorporation of graphene, synthesized in an economically viable manner, into specific layers of the photoanode significantly enhances the power conversion efficiency in DSSCs.
Coraliomela brunnea (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), a new pest in Cocos nucifera in the state of Alagoas
Authors: Pinheiro Rodrigo Almeida , Cabral Maria Jéssica dos Santos , Santos Otavio Rodrigues dos , Silva Carlos Henrique Dionízio da , Marques Estefânia Vitória da Hora , Santos Claudimary Bispo dos 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The fruit of Cocos nucifera Linnaeus (Aracales: Arecaceae) is widely marketed in Brazil, especially in the Northeast Region, where it is consumed in natura and is a raw material from products used in cooking (flour, milk and oil) in addition to water being appreciated as a drink. Factors such as diseases and pests compromise the production of C. nucifera, e.g., beetles (e.g., defoliators). The aim of this study was to report the first occurrence of Coraliomela brunnea Thunberg, 1821 (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) insulting plants of the C. nucifera variety dwarf-green in the state of Alagoas, Northeast China, and its current distribution. The occurrence of defoliation caused by C. brunnea in a young plant, C. nucifera var. Green dwarf, is a warning to small farmers and producers, as it is one of the main beetle species that infests and causes damage to young plants of this species. The record of the species in the state of Alagoas expands its area of occurrence and is now reported in almost the entire Northeast Region.
Quantification of Damages in Laminated Composite Plates through Artificial Neural Network utilizing Generalized Flexibility Method
Authors: Hanumanthappa Siddesha , Imdadi Hammad Maroof , Emani Pavan Kumar 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In this paper, single and many damages are detected at different places of the three-layered laminated cross-ply (0°/90°/0°) composite plate using Generalized Flexibility Energy Quotient Difference Method (GFEQDM) utilizing the first mode. Only first natural frequency and its mode shape are utilized which constitute the major advantage in the proposed method, as they are easy to capture practically. During the first phase, the Generalized Flexibility Energy Quotient Difference Ratio (β) is calculated at different points on the plate using the elements' reduced modulus of elasticity. In the second phase, the β computed at all locations of the plate for various damaged elements are used as input, in ANN and the damage indices at the damaged locations are taken as output. These results clearly demonstrate the acceptability of the suggested approach, which finds use in averting structural failure. Finally, the damage is quantified by developing the relevant equations.
Efficacy and Recurrence Factors of MWA for Hepatic Malignant Tumors: Insights from a Clinical Study
Authors: Shi Jutian , Jiang Yutian , Li Jinpeng , Chen Hua , Cong Ning 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Hepatic malignant tumors present a significant global health challenge, often treated with percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA). Understanding the efficacy of MWA and factors influencing tumor recurrence is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Methods
This study analyzed 101 out of 249 patients with hepatic malignant tumors treated at the Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute. Disease-free and overall survival rates at 1, 2, and 3 years post-MWA were assessed, and correlations between tumor recurrence and variables such as Child-Pugh B liver function classification and lesion count were investigated. Additionally, a meta-analysis was conducted to determine independent risk factors for recurrence post-MWA treatment.
Results
The study revealed disease-free survival rates of 80.2%, 72.3%, and 70.3% at 1, 2, and 3 years post-MWA, with overall survival rates of 99%, 97%, and 96%. Significantly, notable associations were identified between tumor recurrence and Child-Pugh B classification, as well as the number of lesions. The meta-analysis further confirmed lesion count and Child-Pugh B classification as independent risk factors for recurrence following MWA.
Conclusion
Factors such as Child-Pugh B classification and lesion count play a critical role in predicting tumor recurrence post-MWA treatment in hepatic malignant tumors. These findings provide valuable insights for clinicians in decision-making and post-treatment monitoring strategies, ultimately contributing to enhanced patient care and outcomes.