bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biological effects of corticosteroids on pneumococcal pneumonia in Mice—translational significance
Authors: Taenaka Hiroki , Wick Katherine D. , Sarma Aartik , Matsumoto Shotaro , Ghale Rajani , Fang Xiaohui , Maishan Mazharul , Gotts Jeffrey E. , Langelier Charles R. , Calfee Carolyn S. , Matthay Michael A. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common bacterial cause of community acquired pneumonia and the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Some clinical trials have demonstrated a beneficial effect of corticosteroid therapy in community acquired pneumonia, COVID-19, and ARDS, but the mechanisms of this benefit remain unclear. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the effects of corticosteroids on the pulmonary biology of pneumococcal pneumonia in a mouse model. A secondary objective was to identify shared transcriptomic features of pneumococcal pneumonia and steroid treatment in the mouse model and clinical samples.

Methods
We carried out comprehensive physiologic, biochemical, and histological analyses in mice to identify the mechanisms of lung injury in Streptococcus pneumoniae with and without adjunctive steroid therapy. We also studied lower respiratory tract gene expression from a cohort of 15 mechanically ventilated patients (10 with Streptococcus pneumoniae and 5 controls) to compare with the transcriptional studies in the mice.

Results
In mice with pneumonia, dexamethasone in combination with ceftriaxone reduced (1) pulmonary edema formation, (2) alveolar protein permeability, (3) proinflammatory cytokine release, (4) histopathologic lung injury score, and (5) hypoxemia but did not increase bacterial burden. Transcriptomic analyses identified effects of steroid therapy in mice that were also observed in the clinical samples.

Conclusions
In combination with appropriate antibiotic therapy in mice, treatment of pneumococcal pneumonia with steroid therapy reduced hypoxemia, pulmonary edema, lung permeability, and histologic criteria of lung injury, and also altered inflammatory responses at the protein and gene expression level. The transcriptional studies in patients suggest that the mouse model replicates some of the features of pneumonia in patients with Streptococcus pneumoniae and steroid treatment. Overall, these studies provide evidence for the mechanisms that may explain the beneficial effects of glucocorticoid therapy in patients with community acquired pneumonia from Streptococcus Pneumoniae.
Seizure control via pH manipulation: a phase II double-blind randomised controlled trial of inhaled carbogen as adjunctive treatment of paediatric convulsive status epilepticus (Carbogen for Status Epilepticus in Children Trial (CRESCENT))
Authors: Forsyth Rob , Allen Maria , Bedson Emma , Downes Alice , Gough Chris , Hartshorn Stuart , Lawton Kelly , Lyttle Mark D. , Messahel Shrouk , Mullen Niall , Raper Joseph , Rosala-Harris Anna , Taggart Leigh , Urron Jason , Walton Emily , Gamble Carrol ,   on behalf of the Paediatric Emergency Research in the United Kingdom and Ireland (PERUKI) collaborative, Tolhurst-Cleaver Meriel , Siner Sarah , Singh Anandi , Ledger Elizabeth , Harris Thomas , Amos Rachel , Downes Alice J. , Price Sally , Mikhail Maria , Alhashimi Noor 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Paediatric convulsive status epilepticus is the most common neurological emergency presenting to emergency departments. Risks of resultant neurological morbidity and mortality increase with seizure duration. If the seizure fails to stop within defined time-windows, standard care follows an algorithm of stepwise escalation to more intensive treatments, ultimately resorting to induction of general anaesthesia and ventilation. Additionally, ventilatory support may also be required to treat respiratory depression, a common unwanted effect of treatment. There is strong pre-clinical evidence that pH (acid–base balance) is an important determinant of seizure commencement and cessation, with seizures tending to start under alkaline conditions and terminate under acidic conditions. These mechanisms may be particularly important in febrile status epilepticus: prolonged fever-related seizures which predominantly affect very young children. This trial will assess whether imposition of mild respiratory acidosis by manipulation of inhaled medical gas improves response rates to first-line medical treatment.

Methods
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of pH manipulation as an adjunct to standard medical treatment of convulsive status epilepticus in children. The control arm receives standard medical management whilst inhaling 100% oxygen; the active arm receives standard medical management whilst inhaling a commercially available mixture of 95% oxygen, 5% carbon dioxide known as ‘carbogen’.
Due to the urgent need to treat the seizure, deferred consent is used.

The primary outcome is success of first-line treatment in seizure cessation. Planned subgroup analyses will be undertaken for febrile and non-febrile seizures. Secondary outcomes include rates of induction of general anaesthesia, admission to intensive care, adverse events, and 30-day mortality.

Discussion
If safe and effective 95% oxygen, 5% carbon dioxide may be an important adjunct in the management of convulsive status epilepticus with potential for pre-hospital use by paramedics, families, and school staff.

Trial registration
EudraCT: 2021-005367-49. CTA: 17136/0300/001. ISRCTN: 52731862. Registered on July 2022.
Lactylation: the novel histone modification influence on gene expression, protein function, and disease
Authors: Hu Yue , He Zhenglin , Li Zongjun , Wang Yihan , Wu Nan , Sun Hongyan , Zhou Zilong , Hu Qianying , Cong Xianling 
Published: May 2024

AbstractLactic acid, traditionally considered as a metabolic waste product arising from glycolysis, has undergone a resurgence in scientific interest since the discovery of the Warburg effect in tumor cells. Numerous studies have proved that lactic acid could promote angiogenesis and impair the function of immune cells within tumor microenvironments. Nevertheless, the precise molecular mechanisms governing these biological functions remain inadequately understood. Recently, lactic acid has been found to induce a posttranslational modification, lactylation, that may offer insight into lactic acid's non-metabolic functions. Notably, the posttranslational modification of proteins by lactylation has emerged as a crucial mechanism by which lactate regulates cellular processes. This article provides an overview of the discovery of lactate acidification, outlines the potential “writers” and “erasers” responsible for protein lactylation, presents an overview of protein lactylation patterns across different organisms, and discusses the diverse physiological roles of lactylation. Besides, the article highlights the latest research progress concerning the regulatory functions of protein lactylation in pathological processes and underscores its scientific significance for future investigations.
Distribution and predictors of F-18-FDG uptake values of non-malignant cervical lymph nodes in pediatric patients
Authors: Godefroy Jeremy , Godefroy Raphael , Vedder Koral , Altura Yair , Chicheportiche Alexandre , Ben-Haim Simona , Goldstein Gal 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
F-18-flurodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/CT is routinely used for staging, evaluation of response to treatment and follow-up of most pediatric malignancies. Cervical lymph nodes can be involved in some pediatric malignancies, but increased uptake in non-malignant cervical lymph nodes is not exceptional in this population. The aim of the present study is to identify predictors of the maximum uptake in non-malignant cervical lymph nodes in the pediatric population.

Methods
191 FDG PET/CT studies of pediatric patients without malignant involvement of cervical lymph nodes were retrospectively reviewed. The maximal Standard Uptake Value in the hottest cervical lymph node (SUVmaxCLN), as well as demographic, technical and imaging variables were recorded. The predictive effect of those variables on SUVmaxCLN was estimated using linear regression models.

Results
Increased FDG activity in cervical nodes was observed in 136/191 studies (71%). The mean SUVmaxCLN was 2.2 ± 1.3. Ipsilateral palatine tonsil SUVmax, mean liver uptake, and treatment status were all statistically significant predictors of SUVmaxCLN. However, in multivariate regression analysis, only ipsilateral palatine tonsil SUVmax was found to be significant. In addition, SUVmaxCLN was greater than the mean liver uptake in 50% of all studies. This proportion was higher in younger children, reaching 77% of studies of children younger than six years.

Conclusion
SUVmax in ipsilateral palatine tonsil is a strong predictor of the maximal uptake value of non-malignant cervical lymph nodes in children. The intensity of uptake in non-malignant cervical lymph nodes is frequently higher than liver uptake in children, and this tendency increases for younger patients.

Trial was registered
In the internal hospital registry under TRN 0209-22-HMO on date 23.04.2022.
Demographic and injury trends for car crash casualties hospitalized in Level I Trauma centers over two decades: data from the National Trauma Registry
Authors: Goldman Sharon , Cohen-Manheim Irit , Radomislensky Irina , Savitsky Bella ,   Israel Trauma Group, Bahouth H. , Bar A. , Braslavsky A. , Czeiger D. , Fadeev D. , Goldstein A. L. , Grevtsev I. , Hirschhorn G. , Jeroukhimov I. , Kedar A. , Klein Y. , Korin A. , Levit B. , Schrier I. , Schwarz A. D. , Shomar W. , Soffer D. , Weiss M. , Yaslowitz O. , Zoarets I. , Bodas Moran 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
During the past two decades, there have been many changes in automotive and medical technologies, road infrastructure, trauma systems, and demographic changes which may have influenced injury outcomes. The aim of this study was to examine injury trends among traffic casualties, specifically private car occupants, hospitalized in Level I Trauma Centers (TC).

Methods
A retrospective cohort study was performed based on data from the Israel National Trauma Registry. The data included occupants of private cars hospitalized in all six Level I TC due to a traffic collision related injury between January 1, 1998 and December 31, 2019. Demographic, injury and hospitalization characteristics and in-hospital mortality were analyzed. Chi-squared (X2) test, multivariable logistic regression models and Spearman’s rank correlation were used to analyze injury data and trends.

Results
During the study period, 21,173 private car occupants (14,078 drivers, 4,527 front passengers, and 2,568 rear passengers) were hospitalized due to a traffic crash. The percentage of females hospitalized due to a car crash increased from 37.7% in 1998 to 53.7% in 2019. Over a twofold increase in hospitalizations among older adult drivers (ages 65+) was observed, from 6.5% in 1998 to 15.7% in 2018 and 12.6% in 2019. While no increase was observed for severe traumatic brain injury, a statistically significant increase in severe abdominal and thoracic injuries was observed among the non-Jewish population along with a constant decrease in in-hospital mortality.

Conclusions
This study provides interesting findings regarding injury and demographic trends among car occupants during the past two decades. Mortality among private car occupant casualties decreased during the study period, however an increase in serious abdominal and thoracic injuries was identified. The results should be used to design and implement policies and interventions for reducing injury and disability among car occupants.
Sequence spaces derived by $q_{\lambda}$ operators in $\ell _{p}$ spaces and their geometric properties
Authors: Braha Naim L. , Yaying Taja , Mursaleen Mohammad 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this paper, we establish a novel category of sequence spaces $\ell _{p}^{q_{\lambda}}$

ℓ
p

q
λ

and $\ell _{\infty}^{q_{\lambda}}$

ℓ
∞

q
λ

by utlizing q-analogue $\Lambda^{q}$

Λ
q

of Λ-matrix. Our investigation outlines several topological characteristics and inclusion results of these newly introduced sequence spaces, specifically identifying them as BK-spaces. Subsequently, we demonstrate that these novel sequence spaces are of nonabsolute type and establish their isometric isomorphism with $\ell _{p}$

ℓ
p

and $\ell _{\infty}$

ℓ
∞

. Moreover, we obtain the α-, β-, and γ-duals of these sequence spaces. We further characterize the class $(\ell _{p}^{q_{\lambda}},X)$
(

ℓ
p

q
λ

,
X
)
of matrices, where X is any of the spaces $\ell _{\infty }$

ℓ
∞

, c, or $c_{0}$

c
0

. Lastly, our study delves into the exploration of specific geometric properties exhibited by the space $\ell _{p}^{q_{\lambda}}$

ℓ
p

q
λ

.
Inefficiency of laying hens farms in Benin: an input directional distance function approach
Authors: Crinot Fabrice Géraud , Adégbola Ygué Patrice , Fatunbi Abiodun Oluwole , Adéguélou Koladé Raoul 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
In Benin, the productivity of poultry production systems is a major concern. This paper aims first to estimate the cost, technical and allocative inefficiencies of modern and traditional poultry production systems, and then to determine the factors that influence these types of inefficiencies.

Results
The study reveals significant cost inefficiencies, with just 9% and 18% of traditional and modern systems, respectively, being cost-efficient, highlighting the necessity of distinguishing production systems due to different operational requirements, particularly for modern systems. Addressing these inefficiencies requires crucial measures such as providing training, accessible credit, and mortality rate reduction to boost local production, with tailored support for small-scale farmers.

Conclusions
The poultry sector’s intense competition and the decline in local production, particularly among small-scale farmers, are primarily linked to high domestic production costs and local farmers' poor performance. Our study unveils substantial cost inefficiencies in both traditional and modern poultry farming systems, emphasizing the imperative to differentiate interventions based on their distinct operational requirements.
We are all ordinary: the shared visual narratives of daily life promote the patients’ positive attitudes toward doctors
Authors: Lyu Xiaokang , Zhang Shuyuan , Fu Chunye , Yang Min , Yang Tingting , Xie Fandi 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Current research on the doctor-patient relationship primarily focuses on the responsibilities of doctors, with relatively less emphasis on examining the contributions patients can make. As a result, there is an urgent demand for exploring innovative approaches that highlight the active role patients play in cultivating a robust doctor-patient relationship. The purpose of this study was to devise an intervention strategy centered around patients to enhance the doctor-patient relationship. Comics were developed to depict shared narratives encompassing challenging daily life experiences between doctors and ordinary individuals. The study aimed to assess the efficacy of this approach in cultivating positive attitudes toward doctors.

Method
A 3-group design trial was conducted in Shanghai, China. A total of 152 participants were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: the parallel presenting group (n = 51), where narratives about a doctor and an ordinary employee were presented side by side in comics; the single presenting group (n = 50), where only narratives about a doctor were presented; and the control group (n = 51). The outcomes assessed in this study encompassed changes in identification with the doctor portrayed in the comics, perceived intimacy between doctors and patients in reality, and appraisal of the doctor in a prepared doctor-patient interaction situation.

Results
The parallel presenting group exhibited significantly larger increases in identification with the doctor portrayed in the comics, perceived intimacy between doctors and patients in reality, and appraisal of the doctor in a prepared doctor-patient interaction scenario compared to the single presenting group. The observed enhancements in the appraisal of the doctor in a prepared doctor-patient interaction scenario can be attributed to the changes in identification with the doctor portrayed in the comics experienced by the participants.

Conclusion
Our study responds to the doctor-centric focus in existing research by exploring patients’ contributions to the doctor-patient relationship. Using comics to depict shared narratives, the parallel presenting group demonstrated significantly increased identification with the depicted doctor, perceived intimacy, and positive appraisal in prepared scenarios compared to the single presenting group. This underscores the effectiveness of patient-centered interventions in shaping positive attitudes toward doctors, highlighting the pivotal role patients play in fostering a resilient doctor-patient relationship.

Trial registration
Chinese Clinical Trail Registry: ChiCTR2400080999 (registered 20 February 2024; retrospectively registered).
Impact of Covid-19 lockdowns on the anthropometric development in primary school children in the Rhein-Neckar Region, Germany
Authors: Samigullin Azat , Groß Gabriel , Gählert Jana , Buchenberger Sandra , Morcos Michael , Schwertz Rainer , Öste Rickard , Siegel Erhard , Humpert Per 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Published data suggests that lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic may have negatively affected children’s weight development. This study aims to assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity after the COVID-19 lockdowns as well as anthropometric development among primary school children in the Rhein-Neckar Region, Germany.

Methods
In this cross-sectional study, schools were selected in cooperation with the local health authority to include different socioeconomic backgrounds. Participation was voluntary at school and individual level, requiring written informed consent from legal guardians. Study visits in schools were conducted between October 2021 and July 2022. Anthropometric data from nationally recommended medical examinations at 4 years (U8) and 5 years (U9), data on nutrition, physical activity, and socioeconomic data was collected using questionnaires. zBMI and weight category were calculated based on German reference data.

Results
256 children with a mean age of 8.0 years (7.1–9.3 years) were included in the study. Most participants were from households with an above average income. 5.1% of the children were overweight, 4.7% were obese, 15.6% were underweight, and 74.6% were normal weight with a mean zBMI of -0.25 (SD 1.10), which is significantly lower than the mean zBMI of the German reference population (p < 0.001). No significant changes in zBMI were observed between U8 and U9 (p = 0.16). The mean zBMI decreased by 0.17 (SD 0.72) between U9 and the study visit (p = 0.02). A zBMI decrease of 0.5 was documented for the subgroup of overweight and obese children (p = 0.028) as well as a decrease of 0.23 (SD 0.63) for the normal-weight children subgroup (p < 0.001).

Conclusions
Contrary to previous reports mean zBMI decreased significantly in the children studied. No significant changes in zBMI were observed between U8 and U9 examinations, which supports the hypothesis that the decrease in zBMI could be attributed to lockdown measures. The study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov on September 21st 2021 under the registration number NCT05077059.
Usability and accuracy of two different aortic annulus sizing software programs in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Spanke Johannes , Nübel Jonathan , Hölschermann Frank , Tambor Grit , Kiessling Claudia , Kaneko Hidehiro , Haase-Fielitz Anja , Butter Christian 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Semi-automated software is essential for planning and prosthesis selection prior transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Reliable data on the usability of software programs for planning a TAVR is missing. The aim of this study was to compare software programs ‘Valve Assist 2’ (GE Healthcare) and 3mensio ‘Structural Heart’ (Pie Medical Imaging) regarding usability and accuracy of prosthesis size selection in program-inexperienced users.

Methods
Thirty-one participants (n = 31) were recruited and divided into program-inexperienced users (beginners) (n = 22) and experts (n = 9). After software training, beginners evaluated 3 patient cases in 129 measurements (n = 129) using either Valve Assist 2 (n = 11) or Structural Heart (n = 11) on 2 test days (T1, T2). System Usability Scale (SUS) and ISONORM 9241/110-S (ISONORM) questionnaire were used after the test. The valve size selected by each beginner was compared with the valve size selected from expert group.

Results
Valve Assist 2 had higher SUS Score: median 78.75 (25th, 75th percentile: 67.50, 85.00) compared to Structural Heart: median 65.00 (25th, 75th percentile: 47.50, 73.75), (p < 0,001, r = 0.557). Also, Valve Assist 2 showed a higher ISONORM score: median 1.05 (25th, 75th percentile: − 0.19, 1.71) compared to Structural Heart with a median 0.05 (25th, 75th percentile: − 0.49, 0.13), (p = 0.036, r = 0.454). Correctly selected valve sizes were stable over time using Valve Assist 2: 72.73% to 69.70% compared to Structural Heart program: 93.94% to 40% (χ2 (1) = 21.10, p < 0.001, φ = 0.579).

Conclusion
The study shows significant better usability scores for Valve Assist 2 compared to 3mensio Structural Heart in program-inexperienced users.
A service evaluation study of the impact of ageless policy in a London inner-city early intervention in psychosis service
Authors: Johnston-Webber Charlotte , Gyawali Shreeya , Akyuz Elvan U. , Zlate Madalina , Nerantzis Georgios , Beauvillain Nikita , Andlauer Olivier , Gupta Susham 
Published: May 2024

Background
Schizophreniform disorders tend to have an early onset. Early intervention in psychosis (EIP) services aim to provide early treatment, reduce long-term morbidity and improve social functioning. In 2016, changes to mental health policy in England mandated that the primarily youth-focused model should be extended to an ageless one, to prevent ageism; however, this was without strong research evidence.

Aims and method
An inner-city London EIP service compared sociodemographic and clinical factors between the under-35 years and over-35 years caseload cohorts utilising the EIP package following the implementation of the ageless policy.

Results
Both groups received similar care, despite the younger group having significantly more clinical morbidity and needs.

Clinical implications
Our results may indicate that service provisions are being driven by policy rather than clinical needs, potentially diverting resources from younger patients. These findings have important implications for future provision of EIP services and would benefit from further exploration.