bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of occupational heat exposure on blood lipids among petrochemical workers: An analysis of 9-year longitudinal data
Authors: Chen Yifeng , Li Xiaoyun , Li Qingyu , Yang Yan , Zhang Zitong , Zhang Yilin , Du Shanshan , He Fei , Lv Zihu , Ye Weimin , Zheng Wei , Xiang Jianjun 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to assess the influence of occupational heat exposure on dyslipidemia among petrochemical workers and identify susceptible groups.
Methods: A total of 30,847 workers’ occupational health examination data were collected from two petrochemical plants in Fujian Province from 2013 to 2021. The dataset included occupational exposure information and blood lipid test results, encompassing total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglyceride (TG) levels. A Generalized Estimating Equations model was used to analyze the impact of heat exposure alone or coupled with other occupational hazards on workers' blood lipids.
Results: The one-factor exposure model shows that most of the individual occupational hazards were significantly negatively associated with dyslipidemia. In the two-factor exposure model, heat combined with gasoline exposure (Incidence Rate Ratio, IRR=1.267, 95% CI 1.117-1.437) and heat combined with hydrogen sulfide exposure (1.324, 1.166-1.505) significantly increased the risk of high TC. Stratified analysis showed that in the dual exposure model of high temperature combined with gasoline or hydrogen sulfide, women , individuals aged over 35, non-smoking , and non-alcohol drinking were more likely to have heat-related high TC.
Conclusion: The impact of heat and other petrochemical factors on blood lipids may be affected by healthy worker effect. Heat exposure combined with gasoline or hydrogen sulfide can significantly increase the risk of dyslipidemia. Occupational health interventions should pay more attention to female workers aged over 35 years who do not smoke or drink alcohol.
Positive Impact of AOX1 on RXR Signaling Leads to Inhibition of Osteogenesis in hPDLMSCs
Authors: Sun Shiwei , Iwata Takanori 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Alveolar bone loss resulting from periodontal disease ultimately leads to tooth loss. Periodontal ligament mesenchymal stem cells (PDLMSCs) serve as the tissue-specific cells responsible for maintaining and repairing the periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone. In this study, we explored the role of aldehyde oxidase 1 (AOX1) in regulating the osteoinduction of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLMSCs). hPDLMSCs were isolated from clinically healthy donors, and AOX1 expression was assessed by comparing inducted and non-inducted hPDLMSCs. Remarkably, we observed a significant upregulation of AOX1 expression during osteoinduction, while AOX1 silencing resulted in the enhanced osteogenic potential of hPDLMSCs. Subsequent experiments and analysis unveiled the involvement of retinoid X receptor (RXR) signaling in the inhibition of osteogenesis in hPDLMSCs. Ligands targeting the RXR receptor mirrored the effects of AOX1 on osteogenesis, as evidenced by alterations in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and bone formation levels. Collectively, these findings underscore the potential regulatory role of AOX1 via RXR signaling in the osteogenesis of hPDLMSCs. This elucidation is pivotal for advancing hPDLMSCs-based periodontal regeneration strategies and lays the groundwork for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing bone formation in the context of periodontal disease.
Screening for comorbid autoimmune disease should be considered in children with ANA positive juvenile idiopathic arthritis – results from the south-Swedish juvenile idiopathic arthritis cohort
Authors: Dahlberg Alma , Tydén Helena , Jöud Anna Saxne , Kahn Fredrik , Berthold Elisabet 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
There is no consensus or clinical guidelines for screening routines of autoimmune disease in individuals with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), since results are conflicting whether the risk for such conditions is increased or not among individuals with JIA. The aim of this study was to investigate if the frequency of comorbid autoimmune conditions is increased after JIA diagnosis in a validated population-based JIA cohort in southern Sweden.
Methods
Autoimmune comorbidities were evaluated in a pre-existing population-based JIA cohort of 302 participants, constituting of individuals diagnosed with a validated JIA diagnosis 2000–2010 in southern Sweden. The comorbidities were determined through analysis of diagnosis codes registered after the JIA diagnosis and until 2019. With the use of a reference population of 1510 age- and sex matched individuals, hazard ratios (HR) were calculated with Cox proportional models.
Results
During the study period, 7.7% of the JIA cohort received an autoimmune diagnosis after their JIA diagnosis. Individuals with JIA had an increased risk of autoimmune diseases in general (HR 2.01, 95% CI 1.16–3.51), as well as separately for coeliac disease (HR 3.98, 95% CI 1.44–11.01) compared to the reference population. Antinuclear antibody (ANA) positivity as well as treatment with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARD) was associated with a significantly increased risk of comorbid autoimmune disease in the JIA cohort, with HR 5.11 (95% CI 1.54–16.96) for ANA positive individuals and HR 7.23 (95% CI 1.65–31.70) for those with DMARD treatment.
Conclusions
Individuals with JIA have a significantly increased risk of being diagnosed with an autoimmune condition after receiving their JIA diagnosis compared to matched references. ANA positivity and DMARD treatment is associated with a further increased risk. Our results emphasize awareness in physicians of additional autoimmune disorders in individuals with JIA and advocate serological screening of autoimmune conditions during follow-up.
Comparison of clinical and neonatal outcomes between day 4 and day 5 embryo transfer cycles stratified by fertilization method
Authors: Tao Linlin , Li Guozhen , Geng Yasong , Guo Yuying , Yang Zhiwei , Dai Haoyang , Zheng Bo , Wang Shusong , Dai Fangfang 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background:In IVF-ET cycles, the day of embryo transfer and the fertilization method are related to the success of the pregnancy.Recent evidence indicates that in IVF-ET, the clinical outcomes of embryo transfer on day 4 (D4 ET) were comparable to those of embryo transfer on day 5 (D5 ET).
Few research have compared the clinical and neonatal outcomes of transplants performed on different days and with different fertilization methods.The purpose of this study was to compare the neonatal and clinical outcomes between D4 and D5 ET, stratified by type of fertilization.
Methods:This retrospective cohort study was conducted in the Xingtai Infertility Specialist Hospital between January 2018 and March 2023. A total of 1,622 fresh ART cycles met the inclusion criteria, including 1292 IVF transfers and 330 ICSI transfers.
Conclusions: The clinical pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of D4 transfer were comparable to those of D5 transfer in fresh cycles. To improve clinical pregnancy outcomes and neonatal outcomes, D4 transfer should be given priority when fertilization method is IVF, when the E2 level on the hCG day is ≥3,807pg/ml, or when the LH value is ＜0.67 U/L.
Clinical application of FIGO 2023 staging system of endometrial cancer in a Chinese cohort
Authors: Yu Changmin , Yuan Xinhui , Yao Qianlan , Xu Yuyin , Zhou Xiaoyan , Hu Xin , Yang Huijuan , Wang Huaying , Zhu Xiaoli , Ren Yulan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective: The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) 2023 staging system represents a refined classification with a comprehensive and improved prognostic significance for endometrial cancer (EC). Our objective is to further explore the clinical utility of the 2023 FIGO staging system in China.
Methods: In current study, we conducted a retrospective analysis involving 547 patients who received standard surgeries and underwent genetic testing using multigene next-generation sequencing panels between December 2018 and December 2023 at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center. The genomic and clinical data of all patients were analyzed, and patients were restaged according to the 2023 staging systems.
Results: After rearrangement of FIGO 2023 staging system in 547 cases, 345 cases of stage I, 107 cases of stage II, 69 cases of stage III, and 26 cases of stage IV were observed. The median follow-up duration was 19.0 months. Stage rearrangements occurred in 92/547 (16.8%) patients. 63 cases and 53 cases were re-classified into IAmPOLEmut and IICmp53abn from early stages (stage I and II), respectively, due to the molecular subtype of POLEmut and p53abn. Among stage I diseases, the 3-year PFS rate was 92.7% and 95.3% according to the 2009 and 2023 FIGO staging systems, respectively. The 3-year PFS of stage II patients under the 2023 FIGO staging system was lower than that of 2009 (3-year PFS: 85.0% versus 90.9%), especially in substage IIC and IICmp53abn. 3 cases (12%) of stage IIIA were rearranged into stage IA3, with 3-year PFS rates of 90.9% versus 100%, respectively. In genomic sequencing analysis, the most prevalent gene alterations occur in PTEN and PIK3CA.
Conclusion: Predominant stage reclassifications were observed in early-stage diseases, emphasizing the enhanced precision provided by the new 2023 FIGO staging system in EC prognosis, which may facilitate more accurate therapeutic strategies. Distinct gene alterations also help to understand the characteristics of different subtypes.
Associations between affect and dizziness symptoms: Ecological Momentary Assessment study in functional dizziness
Authors: Hashimoto Kazuaki , Takeuchi Takeaki , Tanobe Kaho , Takeda Noriko , Koyama Akiko , Hashizume Masahiro 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

An association between dizziness symptoms and psychological factors has been hypothesized, but evaluating this through questionnaires alone risks recall bias. We aimed to clarify this relationship using the EMA method to reduce bias. Participants comprised 30 patients (16 with persistent postural perceptual dizziness (PPPD), 14 with the others) aged 20–74 years with functional dizziness symptoms. Participants were sent survey forms at random times for 10 days, 890 hierarchical data were obtained. Survey forms were included the Subjective Dizziness Symptoms (SDS) evaluated as medical condition and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule assessed as affects. Level 1 model revealed: Positive affect (PA) had a negative fixed effect on SDS in both groups, but the group-mean centering of PA was significant only in the others group. Level 2 model revealed: Negative affect (NA) had a significant fixed effect in both groups; however, the interaction between PA and NA was significant only in the others group. A simple slope analysis of the others group revealed that, in participants with higher NA, reduced momentary SDS was associated with higher PA. Functional dizziness symptoms were more severe when PA was low and NA high. Treatment for functional dizziness pathology could begin with PA.
Integrating Bulk-seq and Single-cell-seq Reveals TNFSF9 as a Key Regulator in Microsatellite Instability- Positive Stomach Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhou Jianlong , Zhang Yucheng , Liu Yongfeng , Li Jiehui , Zhang Wenxing , Wang Junjiang , Yao Xueqing , Feng Huolun , Zheng Jiabin , Li Yong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background:
Stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) with microsatellite instability (MSI) have better prognosis compared with nonMSI. This study aims to elucidate the distinctions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of MSI and explore its potential mechanisms in STAD.
Methods:
We analyzed TME differences between MSI and non-MSI using integrated single-cell RNA sequencing (N = 26) and bulk RNA sequencing (N = 237). Differentially expressed genes unveiled key pathways and hub genes, and TNFSF9 expression was validated through immunohistochemistry (IHC) quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blot analysis (WB).
Results:
The results demonstrated a significant association between MSI and improved prognosis (p < 0.05), along with a higher tumor mutation burden (p < 0.05). Our study revealed increased abundance of antigen-presenting cells (APCs) in MSI, including M1 cells (40.1% vs. 27.9%) and activated dendritic cells (22.1% vs. 10.5%). Signaling pathway and cell communication analyses indicated the enrichment of cytokine-related pathways in MSI. The findings further revealed an increased expression of TNFSF9 by tumor epithelial cells in MSI. Correlation analysis revealed a positive association between TNFSF9 expression and increased APC abundance. IHC, qPCR, and WB validation revealed increased TNFSF9 expression in MSI tumor epithelial cells.
Conclusions:
These results offer new insights into the TME in MSI, emphasizing the significant role of TNFSF9 in mediating MSI status, enhancing immunotherapy efficacy, and improving patient survival in STAD.
Trajectories Of Persisting Covid-19 Symptoms Up To 24 Months After Acute Infection: Findings From The Predi-Covid Cohort Study
Authors: Fischer Aurélie , Zhang Lu , Elbéji Abir , Wilmes Paul , Snoeck Chantal J. , Larché Jérôme , Oustric Pauline , Ollert Markus , Fagherazzi Guy 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
: Long COVID is a multisystemic, fluctuating condition inducing a high burden on affected people. Despite the existence of some guidelines, its management remains complicated. We aimed to demonstrate that Long COVID evolution follows different trajectories from the initial infection until 24 months after and to identify the determinants of these trajectories.
Methods
Study participants from the Predi-COVID cohort included between May 2020 and September 2021 were digitally followed from their acute SARS-CoV-2 infection until a maximum of 24 months. Data from 10 common symptoms were collected at study inclusion, and months 12, 15, and 24 and used to create a total symptom score. Impact of symptoms on quality of life (sleep, respiratory quality of life, anxiety, stress, and fatigue) was assessed at month 24 using standardized questionnaires and ad-hoc questions. Latent classes mixed models were used to identify total score symptom trajectories and individual symptoms trajectories.
Results
We included 555 participants with at least 2 different time points available during follow-up. We identified 2 trajectories: T1 “Mild symptoms, fast resolution” (N = 376; 67.7%), and T2 “Elevated and persisting symptoms” (N = 179; 32.3%). Symptom severity was worse in T2 than in T1 at 24 months (high fatigue level: 64.8% vs 19.5%, altered respiratory quality of life: 42.6% vs 4.6%, anxiety: 24.1% vs 4.6%, stress: 57.4% vs 35.6%, and bad sleep: 75.9% vs 51.1%). Fatigue and pain-related symptom frequencies in T2 increased between acute infection and month 12, and remained elevated until 24 months. Women, elevated body mass index, diabetes, and chronic medications were associated with T2.
Conclusion
A third of our study population was in the T2 “Elevated and persisting symptoms” trajectory, presenting high symptom frequencies up to 24 months after initial infection, with a significant impact on quality of life. This work underlined the urgent need to better identify individuals most vulnerable to long-term complications to develop tailored interventions for them.
Real-time Monitoring by Interferometric Light Microscopy of Phage Suspensions for Personalised Phage Therapy
Authors: Lapras Benjamine , Merienne Camille , Eynaud Emma , Usseglio Lea , Marchand Chloe , Medina Mathieu , Kolenda Camille , Briot Thomas , Laurent Frederic , Pirot Fabrice 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Phage therapy uses viruses (phages) against antibiotic resistance. Tailoring treatments to specific patient strains requires stocks of various highly concentrated purified phages. It therefore faces challenges: titration duration and specificity to a phage/bacteria couple; purification affecting stability; and highly concentrated suspensions tending to aggregate. To address these challenges, interferometric light microscopy (ILM), characterising particles (size, concentration, and visual homogeneity) within minutes, was applied herein to myovirus phage suspensions. Particle concentration was linearly correlated with phage titre (R²>0.97, slope: 3 particles/plaque forming units (PFU)) at various degrees of purification, allowing to estimate phage titre for suspensions ≥3.108 PFU/mL, thereby encompassing most therapeutic doses. Purification narrowed and homogenised particle distribution while maintaining therapeutic concentrations. When compared to dynamic light scattering, electrophoretic mobility, and UV/Visible-spectroscopy, ILM best detected aggregates according to our homemade scoring. The present proof-of-concept positions ILM as a valuable quality control tool for phage suspensions, paving the way for further investigations.
Development and Validation of a Prognostic Model for Patients with Heart Failure with reduced Ejection Fraction
Authors: Yuan Jia-Lin , Huang JingYan , Liang SangYu , Liu HuaTong , Hong ChuangXiong , Chen HuiBing , Sun Le , Chen QiuXiong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Prognostic predictive model for patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is scarce. This study aimed to develop a prognostic model for HFrEF patients. This retrospective cohort enrolled 211 eligible patients with HFrEF, the median follow-up of this cohort was 16 months, the one-year mortality rate was 26.1%(55/211). Cox regression showed that age, history of coronary artery disease (CAD), glucose (Glu), and the use of beta-blockers were independent predictors of the occurrence of all-cause mortality in patients with HFrEF after discharge. The cohort was divided into the development set (N = 120) and the validation set (N = 91) in a ratio of 6:4. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and cox regression screened out 4 variables for the development of the model, including age, sex, serum creatinine (sCr) and use of beta-blockers). A nomogram was constructed, it has a C indexes 0.76 (95%CI 0.67–0.84), AUC of ROC curve of 1 year mortality of the model was 0.79 (95%CI 0.68–0.89), indicating a good differentiation of the model. Calibration plot of the model was drawn and revealed a good calibration. The DCA plots showed that when the threshold probability was between 3 ~ 77% (development group), the model adds benefit to the patients. This model is sure to cast some light on clinical medicine for HFrEF.
Chemotherapy sequence in advanced pancreatic cancer – still a matter of debate?
Authors: Schlick Konstantin , Huemer Florian , Seymer Alexander , Horvard Lena , heregger Ronald , Greil Richard , Djanani Angela , Gerger Armin , Weiss Lukas , Riedl Jakob 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background:
Managing advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (aPDAC) is challenging, particularly in determining the optimal sequence of chemotherapy protocols. Despite a 5-year survival rate of only 3%, recent data from the US National Cancer Database indicate significant improvements in median overall survival (OS) for patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer over the past decade. This progress is attributed to enhanced chemotherapy regimens, the introduction of (new)-adjuvant chemotherapy, improved surgical techniques, and centralized treatment in high-volume centers.
Methods:
We conducted a retrospective cohort study at three Austrian academic centers, including patients with histologically confirmed primary locally advanced or metastatic PDAC who received first-line chemotherapy with either FOLFIRINOX (FFX) or gemcitabine + nab-paclitaxel (GN), followed by second-line treatments with GN or nanoliposomal irinotecan with fluorouracil + leucovorin (nal-IRI/5-FU) after progression. The study's primary endpoints were second progression-free survival (PFS2) and OS. Statistical analyses employed propensity score matching and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) to balance the groups and estimate the impact of the treatment sequences on outcomes.
Results:
Among 455 screened patients, 118 met the inclusion criteria, with 73 receiving FFX followed by GN and 45 receiving GN followed by nal-IRI/5-FU. The median OS was 15.4 months, and PFS2 was 11.5 months for the entire cohort. The GN-nal-IRI/5-FU sequence showed a trend toward improved OS compared to the FFX-GN sequence (HR = 0.57, p = 0.07), with comparable PFS2 between the two regimens (HR = 0.87, p = 0.58). Baseline characteristics differed significantly between the groups, necessitating the use of IPTW to ensure comparability.
Discussion:
This study is the largest to date comparing the efficacy of FFX followed by GN versus GN followed by nal-IRI/5-FU in aPDAC. The GN-nal-IRI/5-FU sequence demonstrated a potential survival benefit, although not statistically significant. The results suggest that both treatment sequences are viable, particularly where access to newer agents is limited. The study's retrospective nature and baseline differences between groups are acknowledged limitations.
Conclusion:
For patients suitable for triplet therapies, starting with NALIRIFOX or mFOLFIRINOX is supported by recent phase 3 trials. For those not fit for such intensive regimens, GN followed by nal-IRI/5-FU remains a valid strategy. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Portuguese cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture 2.0
Authors: Freitas Elsa , Silva Carina , Eiras Margarida 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
As patient safety continues to be a global priority, it is crucial to emphasize the assessment and development of Patient Safety Culture to advance healthcare quality and safety initiatives worldwide. This study focused on the assessment of patient safety culture in Portuguese hospitals, specifically through the translation and cultural adaptation of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture 2.0 (HSOPSC 2.0) for the Portuguese context.
Methods
The research involved a two-phase study design, including translation, cultural adaptation, and psychometric analysis of the HSOPSC 2.0. The study sample comprised seven public hospitals from different regions in Portugal, ensuring a diverse representation within the Portuguese National Health System. Analysis of the data involved statistical methods such as Structural Equation Models, Exploratory Factor Analysis, Confirmatory Factor Analysis, and composite reliability analysis.
Results
The results showed that the translated version of HSOPSC 2.0 (PT-HSOPSC 2.0) had good internal consistency and construct validity. Therefore, the instrument is reliable and valid for assessing Patient Safety Culture in Portuguese healthcare settings. The analysis revealed both strengths and areas for improvement in the patient safety culture in Portuguese hospitals. Strengths included teamwork and management support for patient safety, while opportunities for improvement were related to open communication and hospital management.
Conclusion
This study contributes significantly to enhancing patient safety culture assessment in Portuguese healthcare settings by updating and validating the Portuguese version of HSOPSC 2.0.