bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Protocol for low-power laser therapy (LLLT) application versus non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drug (NSAID) to control post-endodontic treatment pain in patients with apical periodontitis: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bonacina Gabriela , Hartmann Rafael Chies , Gomes Maximiliano Schünke , Böttcher Daiana Elisabeth 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Pain after endodontic therapy affects from 2.5% to 60% of patients and may significantly impacts patient's quality of life and adherence to dental treatment. This blind clinical trial protocol was designed to evaluate the analgesic effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and its impact on post-operative pain and on quality of life (QoL) in patients with apical periodontitis (AP) submitted to root canal treatment (RCT).
Methods: 116 patients will be selected. RCT will be performed using the ProTaper Next system. Patients will be randomly allocated into 2 groups: control (naproxen prescription) and test (LLLT). Post-operative pain levels will be assessed through numeric raking scale (NRS) before intervention and at 6 h, 12 h, 24 h and 72 h after endodontic procedures. Quality of life will be assessed using the OHIP-14 before intervention, post-preparation, post-obturation and 6 months after RCT. Descriptive statistics and normality tests will be carried out, and comparison between groups will be estimated for each outcome (post-operative pain and QoL) using parametric or non-parametric tests. The significance level will be set to 5%.
Discussion: LLLT may be used as an adjunct tool for post-endodontic treatment analgesia, reducing the use of drugs which are often associated with undesirable side effects and improving the QoL of patients affected by AP.
Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov registration: RBR-5hgcgy4, registered on July 31st, 2023, https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-5hgcgy4. Ethics Reference No: 22706919.0.0000.5336. Trial Sponsor: Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul. The Trial was prospectively registered.
Comparison of Denosumab with Romosozumab in the Treatment of Male Osteoporosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kobayakawa Tomonori , Kanayama Yasuhide , Hirano Yuji , Nakamura Yukio 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

We aimed to investigate the efficacy of romosozumab treatment compared with that of denosumab in especially male osteoporosis patients. This retrospective cohort study included 174 Japanese male patients receiving either denosumab or romosozumab for 12 months. Propensity score matching extracted 50 patients per treatment group for standardization of group characteristics. The endpoints include the rate of change in the bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar spine, total hip, and femoral neck after 12 months of treatment as well as the changes in serum bone metabolism markers. The mean 12-month percentage increase in the lumbar spine BMD from baseline was significantly greater with romosozumab (13.0%±1.7%) than with denosumab (4.5%±0.6%) (P < 0.01). The total hip and femoral neck BMD exhibited a similar trend at 12 months; however, no significant between-group differences were observed. With denosumab, bone formation, and resorption marker levels significantly decreased at 6 and 12 months. Conversely, with romosozumab, the levels of bone formation markers increased transiently at 6 months before returning to baseline, whereas bone resorption markers significantly decreased at both time points. Romosozumab demonstrated significantly superior effects over denosumab in improving BMD, especially of the lumbar spine, suggesting that romosozumab can be used for treating male osteoporosis.
Comparative analysis of the collection methods of urine bacterial culture specimens in patients with urinary calculi
Authors: Liu Qing , Cong Tian , Jiang Dongxin , Liu Jun , Wang Jia 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
The reasons of unqualified urine bacterial culture specimens in patients with urinary calculi were analyzed, and the effects of different retention methods on the results of urine bacterial culture were compared.
Methods
The clinical data of 393 patients with urolithiasis treated in the department of urology of Peking University People's Hospital from September 2022 to May 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. 156 cases were collected by oral explanation in the control group, while 237 cases were collected by oral explanation supplemented by demonstration in the observation group. The difference in qualified rate of urine bacterial culture was compared between two groups.
Results
The qualified rate of urine bacteria culture was 94.5% in the observation group and 85.9% in the control group. The comparison between the two groups was statistically significant(P = 0.007).
Conclusion
Oral explanation and supplemented by demonstration to instruct patients to retain urine bacterial culture specimens is easy to understand and grasp. It can improve the qualified rate of urine bacteria culture specimens.
Exploring Homoeopathic Potential Against Typhoid: Baptisia tinctoria, Rhus toxicodendron, and Eupatorium perfoliatum in growth Inhibition of Salmonella typhi – In-vitro study
Authors: Bhuvanesh P , Narayanasamy K. , Srid G , Kumaran G Senthil , Jerin J P 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella typhi, is a global health issue with high morbidity and mortality rates, especially in low-income regions. The rise of antibiotic-resistant strains necessitates new treatment strategies. This study explores the potential of homoeopathic medicines, known for their safety and non-induction of resistance, as an alternative treatment. Three homoeopathic medicines, Rhus toxicodendron, Eupatorium perfoliatum, and Baptisia tinctoria, were tested for their inhibitory effects on S. typhi using the agar disc diffusion method. The medicines, along with a control antibiotic, ceftriaxone, were applied to agar plates with S. typhi cultures. All tested homoeopathic medicines showed inhibitory effects against S. typhi. Rhus toxicodendron Q and Baptisia tinctoria 200 CH showed significant inhibition zones of 16 mm and 14 mm, respectively. Baptisia tinctoria 30 CH and Eupatorium perfoliatum 30 CH also showed inhibitory effects, while ceftriaxone exhibited the largest inhibition zone. This study highlights the need for innovative treatments against antibiotic-resistant infections. It confirms the antimicrobial potential of homoeopathic medicines against S. typhi, suggesting a possible solution for this infectious disease. Further research is needed to assess their clinical effectiveness in managing typhoid fever.
AI-enabled Cardiac Chambers Volumetry and Calcified Plaque Characterization in Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Scans (AI-CAC) Significantly Improves on Agatston CAC Score for Predicting All Cardiovascular Events: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Naghavi Morteza , Reeves Anthony , Atlas Kyle , Zhang Chenyu , Atlas Thomas , Henschke Claudia , Yankelevitz David , Budoff Matthew , Li Dong , Roy Sion , Nasir Khurram , Narula Jagat , Kakadiaris Ioannis , Molloi Sabee , Fayad Zahi , Maron David , McConnell Michael , Williams Kim , Levy Daniel , Wong Nathan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scans contain valuable information beyond the Agatston Score which is currently reported for predicting coronary heart disease (CHD) only. We examined whether new artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms applied to CAC scans may provide significant improvement in prediction of all cardiovascular disease (CVD) events in addition to CHD, including heart failure, atrial fibrillation, stroke, resuscitated cardiac arrest, and all CVD-related deaths.
Methods: We applied AI-enabled automated cardiac chambers volumetry and automated calcified plaque characterization to CAC scans (AI-CAC) of 5830 individuals (52.2% women, age 61.7±10.2 years) without known CVD that were previously obtained for CAC scoring at the baseline examination of the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). We used 15-year outcomes data and assessed discrimination using the time-dependent area under the curve (AUC) for AI-CAC versus the Agatston Score.
Results: During 15 years of follow-up, 1773 CVD events accrued. The AUC at 1-, 5-, 10-, and 15-year follow up for AI-CAC vs Agatston Score was (0.784 vs 0.701), (0.771 vs. 0.709), (0.789 vs.0.712) and (0.816 vs. 0.729) (p<0.0001 for all), respectively. The category-free Net Reclassification Index of AI-CAC vs. Agatston Score at 1-, 5-, 10-, and 15-year follow up was 0.31, 0.24, 0.29 and 0.29 (p<.0001 for all), respectively. AI-CAC plaque characteristics including number, location, and density of plaque plus number of vessels significantly improved NRI for CAC 1-100 cohort vs. Agatston Score (0.342).
Conclusion: In this multi-ethnic longitudinal population study, AI-CAC significantly and consistently improved the prediction of all CVD events over 15 years compared with the Agatston score.
Twin delivery – does induction of labor make a difference?
Authors: Rueegg Ladina , Vonzun Ladina , Zepf Julia , Kraehenmann Franziska , Ochsenbein-Koelble Nicole 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Induction of labor as well as delivery in twin pregnancies bear specific risks. The goal of this study was to analyze the delivery mode in twin pregnancies and influence of induction on the cesarean delivery (CD) rate and perinatal outcome and to identify risk factors for CD and an intertwin interval ≥ 15 minutes.
Methods
This single center retrospective cohort study analyzed the outcome of 267 twin pregnancies. Inclusion criteria for vaginal delivery in twins are gestational age (GA) > 34 weeks, leading twin in cephalic presentation, estimated weight difference ≤ 500g and no previous uterine surgery. Women were divided into three groups: 1 = vaginal delivery, 2 = CD for both twins, 3 = emergency CD for second twin. Outcomes were mode of delivery, and influence of induction on the CD rate.
Results
We had 156 women (58%) in group 1, 97 (36%) in 2 and 14 (5%) in 3. Induction of labor was performed in 147 cases and led to a higher CD rate (23% vs. 47%, p < 0.001). Induction of labor and nulliparity were associated with a higher risk for CD for both twins. Risk factors for an intertwin interval of ≥ 15 minutes were maternal age and weight of the second twin. An intertwin interval of ≥ 15 minutes was associated with a lower umbilical artery pH in the second twin.
Conclusion
The rate of CD doubled if induction of labor was necessary. These results emphasize on careful patient counselling that includes information about the risks of deliveries in twin pregnancies.
Integrated Multi-omics Reveals Different Host Crosstalk of Atopic Dermatitis-Enriched Bifidobacterium longum Strains
Authors: Hong Soo-Jong , Seong Hoon Je , Park Yoon Mee , Kim Bong-Soo , Yoo Hyun Ju , Kim Taeyune , Yoon Sun Mi , Kim Jeong-Hyun , Lee So-Yeon , Lee Yun Kyung , Lee Dong-Woo , Nam Myung Hee 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The infant gut microbiome is critical for future human health and is associated with atopic dermatitis (AD); however, numerous underlying mechanisms remain unexplored. Our study investigated gut microbiome-host relationships in infants with AD and healthy controls, focusing on the Bifidobacterium longum subclades through multi-omics. We conducted a metagenomic analysis of the gut microbiome in 31 AD patients and 29 healthy controls at six months to profile the microbiome community, including strain-level phylogenetic and pan-genomic analyses. Subsequently, colonocyte transcriptomics and untargeted metabolomics were employed to integrate the associations among each omics. Our results unveiled distinct B. longum subclades in both groups, harboring unique genes related to ecological colonization. These subclades influenced the stability of gut microbial diversity, suggesting an indirect role of B. longum in influencing AD through microbial diversity modulation (P < 0.05). Depending on the B. longum subclade, the host transcriptome ignificantly correlated with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-AKT signaling, neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, and cell signaling pathways. Metabolomic analysis revealed distinct metabolite associations for each subclade, including tetrahydrocortisol, N-palmitoyl GABA, and ornithine—all related to stress and neuromodulation. These findings indicate contrasting effects on the gut immune and nervous systems by different B. longum subclades in AD and healthy infants. B. longum subclades displayed varied associations with the host's transcriptome and metabolite profiles, suggesting they may play a pivotal role in stabilizing the enteric immune and nervous systems, potentially influencing AD development. Our findings emphasize the importance of strain-level variations in microbiome studies and provide novel perspectives on host interactions related to AD.
Mitigating Methodological Challenges in Citizen Science using Data Science
Authors: Rahman Germain Abdul - , Zwitter Andrej , Haleem Noman 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Citizen science initiatives offer an unprecedented scale of volunteer-driven data collection but often face scrutiny regarding their methodology, research design, and data collection as well as analysis. Addressing these concerns, this paper adopts a data science approach to process and enhance the integrity of data generated from citizen science projects. We present a methodological framework that employs data science techniques to effectively mitigate data noisiness and coverage biases, issues commonly associated with citizen science datasets. The paper features a case study involving a collaboration with JGM, a citizen science research group specializing in serious gaming and training. This partnership provides a unique lens to examine the application of data science techniques in citizen science, focusing on analysing team dynamics in escape room scenarios. This article outlines rigorous data preprocessing and processing workflows implemented from a data science standpoint to ensure data quality. The processed dataset, comprising 291 observations and 55 variables, is a blueprint for enhancing data reliability in citizen science endeavours. In summary, this paper demonstrates how data science methods can make citizen science projects more reliable and replicable. We encourage more work that combines these two fields to improve the quality of research.
More Efficient and Lower Energy-Intensive Process for Direct Air Capture
Authors: Jamshidnejad Mohammad , Asadinasab Mohammadjavad 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

All direct air capture (DAC) technologies utilize either chemical sorbents or physical sorbents for removing CO2 from the atmospheric air. These technologies tend to be energy-intensive due to the low concentration of CO2 in the air (typically around a few hundred ppm), necessitating the processing of a large volume of air to capture significant quantities of CO2. In this study, a DAC plant employing an aqueous basic solution to capture approximately one megaton of CO2 yearly is considered to tackle this challenge. The study proposes a practical solution to enhance the process efficiency and reduce energy intensity. An experimental study using a packed tower shows that the CO2 absorption rate into the water increases with the elevation of the CO2 concentration in the input stream. This increase in the absorption rate is more pronounced at lower concentrations. The findings indicate that reducing the input air stream by 40% and recycling a thin stream (approximately 16%) of captured CO2 into the input air stream can boost plant efficiency by 30% and decrease the required fan energy by at least 40%. This study demonstrates that the DAC process can be optimized, resulting in a levelized cost per ton of captured CO2 of less than $87.
Frailty Identification using a Sensor-based Upper- extremity Function Test: A Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Asghari Mehran , Ehsani Hossein , Toosizadeh Nima 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The global increase in the older adult population highlights the need for effective frailty assessment, a condition linked to adverse health outcomes such as hospitalization and mortality. Existing frailty assessment tools, like the Fried phenotype and Rockwood score, have practical limitations, necessitating a more efficient approach. This study aims to enhance frailty prediction accuracy in older adults using a combined biomechanical and deep learning approach. We recruited 312 participants (126 non-frail, 145 pre-frail, 41 frail) and assessed frailty using the Fried index, upper-extremity function (UEF) test, and muscle force calculations. Machine learning (ML) models, including logistic regression and support vector machine (SVM), were employed alongside deep learning with long short-term memory (LSTM) networks. Results showed that incorporating muscle model parameters significantly improved frailty prediction. The LSTM model achieved the highest accuracy (74%), outperforming SVM (67%) and regression (66%), with precision and F1 scores of 81% and 75%, respectively. Notably, muscle co-contraction emerged as a critical predictor, with frail individuals exhibiting substantially higher levels. Our findings demonstrate that integrating UEF tasks with deep learning models provides superior frailty prediction, potentially offering a robust, efficient clinical tool. However, further validation with larger, more diverse populations is needed to confirm the generalizability of our results. This study underscores the potential of advanced computational techniques to improve the identification and management of frailty in older adults.
Necrotizing enterocolitis in infants born in Japan and born to Japanese mothers in California: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kusuda Satoshi , Bennett Mihoko , Gould Jeffrey 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objectives: There is a variation in the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) among countries. To investigate the influence of ethnicity, NEC incidents were compared between Japan and California.
Study Design: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using neonatal databases in Japan and California, including infants between 2008 and 2019 at 22-29 gestational weeks. Infants born in Japan (JP) were compared to infants born in California to mothers born in Japan (JP-J), to mothers with Japanese ethnicity born outside Japan (JP-CA), and to non-Hispanic White mothers (NHW-CA).
Results: Each cohort consisted of 52,049, 115, 226, and 12,275 infants, respectively. Unadjusted NEC incidences were significantly lower in JP (1.7% vs. 4.4% JP-J+JP-C, and 3.3% NHW-CA, respectively; p<0.01). After background adjustment, odds ratios in JP-J, JP-CA, and NHW-CA vs. JP were 3.0 (1.2-7.8), 2.9 (1.5-5.8), and 2.0 (1.6-2.5), respectively.
Conclusions: The NEC incidence variation could not be explained solely based on ethnic background.
The invasion phenotypes of glioblastoma depend on plastic and reprogrammable cell states
Authors: Nelander Sven , Doroszko Milena , Stockgard Rebecka , Yildirim Irem , Bravo Mar Ballester , Millner Thomas , Kundu Soumi , Heinold Josephine , Elgendy Ramy , Berglund Maria , Elfineh Ludmila , Krona Cecilia , Marino Silvia , Larsson Ida 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain cancer. It causes death mainly by local invasion via several routes, including infiltration of white matter tracts and penetration of perivascular spaces. However, the pathways that mediate these invasion routes are only partly known. Here, we conduct an integrative study to identify cell states and central drivers of route-specific invasion in GBM. Combining single-cell profiling and spatial protein detection in patient-derived xenograft models and clinical tumor samples, we demonstrate a close association between the differentiation state of GBM cells and their choice of invasion route. Computational modeling identifies ANXA1 as a driver of perivascular invasion in GBM cells with mesenchymal differentiation and the transcription factors RFX4 and HOPX as drivers of diffuse invasion in cells with neural stem cell or astrocyte-like differentiation. Ablation of these new targets in tumor cells alters their invasion route, redistributes the cell states, and extends survival in xenografted mice. Our results define a close association between GBM cell differentiation states and invasion routes, identify new functional biomarkers of route-specific invasion, and point toward targeted modulation of specific invasive cell states as a therapeutic strategy in GBM.
Record-breaking conversion efficiency in a THz nonlinear diode chain using an asymmetric double-layer topology
Authors: zhang yaxin , Zhou Hongji , Guo Hailong , Liang Shixiong , Zhou Jun , Zhou Tianchi , Zeng Hongxin , Huang Lin , Dong Yazhou , Liang Jingrui , Gong Sen , yang ziqiang , Mittleman Daniel 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The exploitation of radiation in the terahertz (THz) range hinges on the continued development of THz sources. Schottky barrier diode (SBD)--based frequency multiplier devices are one of the most attractive options, as they can produce high power in comparison to direct generation, and can be integrated into all-solid-state systems. Yet, the scaling of the output power of such devices is often limited by the power handling capacity of a single diode. This motivates the idea of forming a connected chain of SBD devices, accompanied by a power combining approach to achieve higher THz output power. While effective, the uneven field distribution among the diodes can pose a significant challenge as it leads to lower efficiency and premature breakdown. This phenomenon is rooted in the similarity between the THz wavelength and the physical dimensions of the diodes themselves. To address this issue, we propose an innovative solution based on an asymmetric double-layer C-type diode chain structure. This arrangement allows for the adjustment of local electromagnetic field distribution, and dramatically enhances the conversion efficiency of the diode chain. Our device achieves the highest frequency doubling efficiency recorded at 38%, with an output exceeding 300 mW at 170 GHz. This design paves the way for a new direction in the development of diode-based THz nonlinear devices.
The Contribution of Motivational Beliefs to Motivational and Affective Strategy Use
Authors: CEYLAN NURAY OKUMUS 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This paper identifies contribution of the different dimensions of motivational beliefs, i.e., self-efficacy, task value, learning goal orientation, and performance goal orientation to motivational and affective strategy use. The findings of the regression analyses suggested that the dimensions altogether contribute significantly to motivational strategy scores but do not lead to significant changes individually. Regarding affective strategies, the findings identified that self-efficacy and performance goal orientation stood out with regard to contribution to affective strategy use.