bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Incidence and Risk Factors of Infection during Induction Phase of Treatment without Preventive Antibiotics and Antifungal in Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Retrospective Cohort Study from a Single Center in China
Authors: liu qinqin , Fu Jinqiu , Wang Tianjiao , Si Libo , Zhang Aijun 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are highly susceptible to infections due to active leukemia and chemotherapy-induced immunosuppression during the induction phase. Knowledge on the incidence, impact and outcome of infection in children during the induction phase of treatment without prophylactic antibiotics and antifungals is currently limited.
Methods
The clinical data of pediatric patients with newly diagnosed ALL at Qilu Hospital of Shandong University between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2019 were reviewed and analyzed.
Results
Of the 377 children in the retrospective cohort, 237 developed 259 episodes of infections in different sites. The most common infections were respiratory tract infections followed by fever of unknown origin. A total of 65 microbial strains were detected, including 39 strains of Gram-positive (G+) bacteria, 17 strains of Gram-negative (G−) bacteria, five strains of fungi and four strains of viruses. Staphylococcus was the predominant genera of G+ bacteria, whereas Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the common genera of G− bacteria. There were significant differences between infection and time from symptom onset to diagnosis (≤ 15d or > 15d), duration of granular deficiency (≥ 15d or < 15d), and whether protective isolation was given in laminar beds (P < 0.05). Of the 237 episodes of infections, 45 patients had delayed CAM chemotherapy and seven patients died.
Conclusion
Abnormal bone marrow hematopoiesis and high incidences of infection, hemorrhage, and anemia were present in pediatric patients during the induction phase. In addition, infection-related morbidity, mortality, and chemotherapy delay remain clinically significant.
Morphometric Measurements of Intraoral Anatomy in Children with Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome: A Prospective Study and Novel Approach
Authors: Romeo Dominic J. , George Andrew M. , Sussman Jonathan H. , Banala Manisha , Wiemken Andrew , Wu Meagan , Ng Jinggang J. , Taylor Jesse A. , Schwab Richard J. , Cielo Christopher M. , Kalish Jennifer 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objectives
An easy-to-use tool to objectively measure intraoral anatomy with meaningful clinical correlations may improve care for patients with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS), who commonly have symptomatic macroglossia. This study aims to address this gap by assessing correlations between tongue morphometrics and clinical characteristics including BWS clinical score, percentage mosaicism, BWS index of macroglossia (BIG) score, sleep apnea, and surgical incidence in patients with BWS.
Methods
Children aged 2–17 years with BWS were prospectively enrolled between 12/2021-01/2024. Digital intraoral photographs with a laser ruler were taken, and morphometric measurements were made using ImageJ software. Relationships between morphometrics and outcomes including BWS clinical score, percentage mosaicism, and incidence of tongue reduction surgery were examined using t-tests and multivariate linear models.
Results
Pharyngeal morphometric measurements were obtained in 49 patients with BWS. Mouth area, width, and height differed across BWS molecular subtypes (p < 0.05). Right-to-left tongue width (p = 0.022) and mouth width (p = 0.049) were larger in those with loss of methylation at imprinting control region 2 (IC2 LOM) than other BWS variants. Patients with paternal uniparental isodisomy of chromosome 11p15 (pUPD11) had narrower mouths than others (p = 0.040). Those with tongue reduction surgery had more tongue ridging than those without surgery (p < 0.01). There were correlations between mouth area and BWS clinical score (p = 0.046), tongue width and BWS clinical score (p = 0.040), and tongue length and percentage mosaicism (p = 0.012).
Conclusion
Intraoral morphometric measurements are associated with phenotypic burden in BWS. Tongue morphology varies across the BWS spectrum, with IC2 LOM having wider tongues and mouths, and pUPD11 having narrower mouths. Tongue ridging is more common in those selected for surgery. Intraoral morphometric measurements may be safely obtained at low costs across centers caring for children with BWS or others at risk of upper airway obstruction.
Ectoparasite-posed risk may affect the spatial organization of hibernating clusters of a social bat
Authors: Sándor Attila D , Péter Áron , Beke Boróka , Boldogh Sándor A , Bücs Szilárd Lehel , Hornok Sándor 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Most Palearctic bats spend the winter in hibernation, with reduced metabolic rate (including body temperature, circulation, heart-rate, etc.), while descending into a motionless stasis. They select particular sites for roosting, sites which show similar characteristics independent of bat species or geographical location: thermally stable and inaccessible for predators. Bats balance between thermal eccentricities using different techniques, like clustering, moving to colder/warmer parts of the cave or arousal and active warm-up using muscle movement. Common bent-winged bats (Miniopterus schreibersii) hibernate in the same location throughout the winter, in large tight groups independent of thermal conditions. We hypothesize that this tight clustering behaviour is interrelated with parasite avoidance, i.e., bats try to reduce the individual risk of tick-parasitism, which is present only at the edge of the cluster. Analysing photos of bat groups in deep torpor, we sought for patterns in cluster formation and compared the distribution of tick-infested individuals in smaller and larger groups of bent-winged bats. Our results showed that there are significant differences in thermal conditions inside groups, with warmer central and colder border areas. The prevalence of tick-infested individuals was larger in smaller groups, than in larger ones, moreover these individuals were positioned close to the border of the cluster. While bats positioned close to the cluster’s edge have more stable and lower temperature conditions, they bear higher risk from ectoparasites. This leads to a trade-off between maintaining energetic balance vs. parasite-infestation risk. In conclusion, bent-winged bats that are clustering in large tight-knit groups, more effectively reduce the risk of tick infestation, even if this means a higher chance of thermal instability and arousal risk in the inner part of the roosting cluster.
Development of a nomogram that predicts the risk for lower-extremity lymphedema following lymphadenectomy in Gynecologic Cancer
Authors: Yin Ya-nan , Liu Yuan , Jiang Ni-Jie 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Lower-extremity lymphedema (LEL) is a chronic and paralyzing symptom, which influences patients’ quality of life and health. The objective of this study was to develop a nomogram risk warning model for predicting lymphedema in patients with gynecologic cancer.
Methods
This case-control study included 300 patients in southwest China. Twelve parameters were evaluated following forward stepwise logistic regression analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to develop a nomogram.
Results
A total of 261 female patients were eligible for this analysis. Four predictors (operation, deep venous thrombosis, number of lymph node dissection, and lymphocyst) were revealed associated with LEL. A nomogram was developed base on these four factors. The receiver operating characteristic curve was drawn according to the significant factors and the area under the curve was 0.757 (95%CI: 0.683–0.831), and the sensitivity and specificity were 71.1% and 68.1%, respectively.
Conclusions
Deep venous thrombosis, lymphatic cyst, the number of lymph node dissections ≥ 20, and laparoscopic surgery are independent risk factors for lower-extremity lymphedema in gynecologic cancer patients. A nomogram developed from the study using clinical information may be helpful for lymphedema screening and risk stratification, thus helping to reduce the incidence of lower-extremity lymphedema and maintain quality of life.
Temporal variations in the concentrations of PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs in ambient air at Da Nang airport, Vietnam, and health risk assessments
Authors: Sau Trinh Khac 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Air pollution by polychlorodibenzo-p-dioxins/polychlorodibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and dioxin-like polychlorobiphenyls (dl-PCBs) in three residential areas north, west, and south of Da Nang airport, was determined by using passive air samplers containing polyurethane foam (PUF) discs with three-month sampling intervals from 2017 to 2020. The total toxic equivalents (∑TEQs) of the PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs, using WHO2005-TEFs, were highest north of the airport (134 to 10610 fg WHO-TEQ/PUF day with an average of 1108 fg WHO-TEQ/PUF day). ∑TEQs were lower west of the airport, between 159 and 381 fg WHO-TEQ/PUF day, and averaged 230 fg WHO-TEQ/PUF day. The lowest ∑TEQs were south of the airport, with a range of 76 and 331 fg WHO-TEQ/PUF day and an average of 152 fg WHO-TEQ/PUF day. Construction activities, including excavation and transportation of dioxin-contaminated soil north of the airport, have increased ambient air PCDD/F and dl-PCB contamination and health risks. The average daily dose values of PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs through inhalation (ADDA) for residents north of the airport were the highest (10.9 to 3434 fg WHO-TEQ/kg BW/day and average: 597 fg WHO-TEQ/kg BW/day). Residents west of the airport faced lower health risks (13-123 fg WHO-TEQ/kg BW/day and average: 39 fg WHO-TEQ/kg BW/day). Residents south of the airport were exposed to a minimum of 6.2-107 fg WHO-TEQ/kg BW/day, with an average of 28 fg WHO-TEQ/kg BW/day. The maximum and average ADDA values for residents north of the airport exceeded 10% of the tolerable daily intake (TDI) recommended by the WHO (100-400 fg WHO-TEQ/kg BW/day). In comparison, all ADDA values for residents west and south of the airport were less than and within 10% of the TDI.
Effects of an online program about intimate and romantic relationships for people with mental disorders (AIRIKI): a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kusaka Momoko , Kageyama Masako , Yokoyama Keiko , Ichihashi Kayo , Hashimoto Ryota , Nishio Kazutaka , Solomon Phyllis 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
The concept of recovery has become internationally widespread. To promote personal recovery of individuals with mental disorders, it is important that they live life on their own terms. Many people with mental disorders wish to build intimate relationships and marry. However, people with mental disorders face obstacles in building such relationships and communicating with their partners. The program AIRIKI, which means “power to love,” was developed to help people with mental disorders gain confidence in building intimate relationships. The AIRIKI pilot study with one-group pre post test showed positive effects on self-esteem, hope, and communication. Therefore, the purpose of the proposed randomized controlled trial (RCT) is to determine the effects of the videoconferencing program on self-esteem, hope, and self-confidence in communication among un-married people with mental disorders.
Methods
The proposed randomized controlled trial has two arms (intervention group and control group). After baseline questionnaire assessment, participants will be allocated randomly. Within two months of allocation, the intervention group will participate in videoconferences about intimate relationships and marriage with 2–5 participants and 3 facilitators, which will last 3 h, for two days. Three facilitators will support participants in each session. The intervention group will complete a questionnaire for outcome assessment at termination and one month after the program. The control group will complete the outcome questionnaire at one month after baseline and two months after baseline. The questionnaire will include the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), Herth Hope Index (HHI), and Self-confidence in Communication Scale (SCS). Control group members can participate in a videoconference program, which will be held separately from the intervention group, after completing their outcome assessments.
Discussion
This trial is the first randomized controlled trial of which we are aware to test the effects of an online program for un-married people with mental disorders to consider and discuss their romantic relationship and marriage. The results will provide information on the effectiveness of an online program for people with mental disorders to imagine their romantic relationships and marriages.
Trial registration
This trial has been registered with the UNIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000052027; 2023/08/28).
Association between cognitive function, antioxidants, and clinical variables in Chinese patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Li Dan , Huang Yuanyuan , Lu Hongxin , Zhou Sumiao , Feng Shixuan , Li Hehua , Li Xuejing , Guo Yi , Fu Chunlian , Chen Guiying , Ning Yuping , Wu Fengchun , Liu Lianqi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
Cognitive dysfunction is a prevalent and intricate manifestation of schizophrenia (SCZ) that may be associated with distinct clinical factors and the presence of antioxidants, which relationship is unclear. The study aimed to investigate cognitive function and its influencing factors in Chinese patients with SCZ.
Methods
A group of 133 patients with SCZ and 120 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. The MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) was utilized to evaluate cognitive ability, and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was used to assess clinical symptoms. Levels of plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD), serum albumin (ALB) and uric acid (UA) were assessed.
Results
Compared with HCs, patients with SCZ exhibited lower cognitive performance as indicated by MCCB scores, including the dimensions of speed of processing, attention/vigilance, working memory, verbal learning, and visual learning. In the SCZ group, total PANSS scores were negatively associated with all MCCB dimensions (all p < 0.05), except for the attention/vigilance score. The PANSS-negative and PANSS-cognitive subscores were negatively associated with speed of processing, verbal learning, and visual learning scores (all p < 0.05). The PANSS-excited subscores showed a negative correlation with working memory and visual learning scores (all p < 0.05). ALB levels significantly decreased, and their UA and SOD levels were notably elevated compared to HCs (all p < 0.05). ALB levels and PANSS-negative factors were correlated with to speed of processing, working memory, and visual learning dimensions. SOD levels were independent contributors to the attention/vigilance dimension.
Conclusions
The cognitive function was decreased in SCZ. The degree of cognitive impairment was closely related to ALB, SOD levels and negative clinical symptoms.
Finite element analysis of intramedullary nails designed with new locking nail fixation for tibial fractures
Authors: Wu Jiang , Pan Mingmang , Huang Junchao , Xiao Haijun , Qi Shanhong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective: The potential instability of tibial fracture fixation with intramedullary nails due to gap coordination between locking nails and holes was investigated. The aim of this study was to explore a more stable and reliable internal fixation method using intramedullary nails designed with new locking mechanisms.
Methods: Tibial CT image data from a healthy female were obtained to create a tibial fracture model in the middle section using finite element digital technology. Subsequently, two different intramedullary nails were utilized for fixation. The experimental group employed intramedullary nails designed with new locking mechanisms, while the control group used conventional intramedullary nails. The specimens were subjected to axial loading of 2500 N, lateral bending of 1000 N, and rotational forces of 15 Nm. The maximum stress and displacement of the bone and internal fixation were recorded for both groups.
Results: Under an axial stress of 2500 N, the maximum stress on the internal fixation in the experimental group was 247.0 MPa, with the maximum displacement of the fracture end reaching 0.200 mm. In the control group, the maximum stress on the internal fixation was 434.9 MPa, and the maximum displacement of the fracture ends was 0.538 mm. For a lateral bending stress of 1000 N, the maximum stress on the internal fixation in the experimental group was 678.0 MPa, and the maximum displacement of the fracture end was 0.255 mm. In the control group, the maximum stress on the internal fixation was 413.7 MPa, and the maximum displacement of the fracture end was 0.826 mm. When subjected to a rotational stress of 15 Nm, the maximum stress on the internal fixation in the experimental group was 626.8 MPa, with the maximum displacement of the fracture end measuring 0.839 mm. In contrast, the control group exhibited a maximum stress of 289.1 MPa on the internal fixation, along with a maximum displacement of the fracture end of 1.802 mm.
Conclusion: Compared with traditional intramedullary nail designs, the new intramedullary nail design provides superior mechanical support for middle tibial fractures and offers more biomechanical advantages.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Toluene by Three-dimensional Monolithic TiO2/Cu2O Heterojunction Foams
Authors: Chen Simiao , Zhang Li , Melhi Saad , Alshammari Dalal A. , Amin Mohammed A. , Dai Li , Li Shijie , Yu Wei , Cui Liansheng 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In the photocatalytic degradation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), the powdered catalysts have insufficient contact with gas and are prone to detachment from the support. To address this challenge, we present a sacrificial template and in-situ growing approach to fabricate a three-dimensional (3D) monolithic photocatalyst. The design combines the n-type TiO2 and p-type Cu2O semiconductors using foamed copper as a substrate. The 3D monolithic TiO2/Cu2O heterojunction foam was used to evaluate its toluene removal efficiency under simulated sunlight and a 15 W UV disinfection lamp. The results show that the photocatalyst outperforms conventional TiO2 and Cu2O in toluene removal under both simulated sunlight and UV light. After 180 min of exposure to a 500 W Xe lamp, the TiO2/Cu2O foam achieved a removal rate of 90.2% for toluene. This performance improvement is attributed to the unique 3D open internal structure, which enhances the gas-solid mass transfer efficiency. In addition, the formation of p-n junctions between TiO2 and Cu2O prolongs the lifetime of the photogenerated carriers, resulting in higher catalyst activity. After four cycles of experiments, its degradation rate is 88.0%, indicating its stability. The degradation pathway, toxicity analysis and catalytic mechanism of the catalytic degradation of toluene by the TiO2/Cu2O foam were explored. Furthermore, this study demonstrates the feasibility of fabricating highly active monolithic catalysts by in-situ growing of semiconductor photocatalysts onto metal foams. This approach offers a promising solution to enhance reactant contact area and minimize mass transfer resistance in gas-solid reactions.
Clinical and genetic landscape of Bruck syndrome in the Indian population
Authors: Selina Agnes , Kandagaddala Madhavi , Danda Sumita , Madhuri Vrisha 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Bruck syndrome (BS) is a rare form of Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) with congenital large joint contractures and bone fragility fractures. Evaluation of phenotypic and genotypic profiles of 14 children with FKBP10 and PLOD2 gene variants causing Bruck syndrome (BS) and highlighting the severe deformities in response to poor surgical treatment in the Indian cohort.
Methods
Patients with bone fragility were clinically evaluated. After informed consent, genotyping was done by next-generation sequencing, and the variants were validated by Sanger sequencing. These children were treated surgically and pamidronate was administered.
Results
Out of 14 children, 12 were with FKBP10 gene variants, and two with PLOD2 gene variants. The age at diagnosis varied from birth to four years. All were classified as type III by modified Sillence classification. twelve had joint contractures, mainly in the knees and elbows. Clubfeet was identified in seven, scoliosis in three, and severe kyphoscoliosis in three. Two had skull deformities, six with wormian bones, one with basilar invagination and another showing severe cervical compression myelopathy. Rib fractures in six, vertebral compression in nine, and protrusion acetabulae in three were noted. Surgical correction of the deformities by soft tissue release and bone shortening was partially successful, while growth modulation was unsuccessful as the implant failed. Nine of the patients were non-ambulant. Bone density was decreased in all, and the response to pamidronate was partial. This cohort had four novel FKBP10 variants and two PLOD2 variants.
Conclusion
The study highlights the proportionate representation of the two genes in our population, the severe deformities with poor response to surgical treatment, and novel variants in the population.
Deep vein thrombosis after total knee arthroplasty in patients with severe varus deformity: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Qin Jizheng , Xia Chun , Wang Shaojie 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the incidence and associated risk factors of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with severe varus knees after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
Methods: From January 2015 to December 2023, a retrospective study of 226 patients who with preoperative hip-knee-ankle (HKA) angles more than 10°were enrolled. The patients were examined with ultrasonography after operation and divided into thrombosis and non-thrombosis groups according to their ultrasonographic results. A correlation analysis was performed to determine the factors associated with DVT.
Results: Of the 226 patients, 15 patients (6.6%) developed DVT, with none in proximal location. Significant differences were found in the mean age, time of application of tourniquet and mean VAS scores in patients with DVT compared with those without DVT.
Conclusions: The incidence of DVT was 6.6% in patients who underwent TKA with severe varus deformity. The rate of asymptomatic clots in the calf region was higher than the proximal location. Older age, longer durations of tourniquet application and higher VAS scores were all substantial risk factors for DVT after TKA in patients with severe varus knees.