bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Study on expansion characteristics of Al–Al2O3 composite seals for intermediate‐temperature solid oxide fuel cell
Authors: Xu Shanping , Wang Xiaochun , Kang Jie , Wang Wei , Ding Yun , Zhao Xuepeng , Wang Yaocheng , Li Li 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAl2O3‐based composite seal with 10 wt% Al powder addition (A10) possesses excellent plastic and mechanical performance under wide temperature range of solid oxide fuel cell. The thickening phenomenon of A10 seal between 250°C–400°C and 600°C–750°C is caused by the thermal expansion of organic additives and the volume expansion when solid–liquid Al react with oxygen to form Al2O3. The thickness change rate reaches the maximum which is about 5% at 300°C and is about 4.46% at 650°C. The Gibbs free energy for reaction between Al and Al2O3 in the temperature range of 523–1 023 K is all less than 0, which is proved by the fact that A10 exhibits excellent self‐expansion and thermodynamic properties in the solid oxide fuel cell operating temperature.
Binary anorthite‐cordierite ceramic composite from kaolin and dolomite rock with improved characteristics
Authors: Ponaryadov Alexey , Kotova Olga , Sun Shiyong , Kotova Elena 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBinary CaO‐MgO‐Al2O3‐SiO2 (CMAS) ceramics composites of anorthite‐cordierite composition were synthesized from natural raw materials (kaolin and dolomite rock). The change of SiO2/Al2O3 ratio in kaolin/dolomite mixtures (12, 24, and 36 wt.%) and synthesized composites along with analysis of their phase composition transformations (X‐ray diffraction) during heat treatment (thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis) give the controlled design of aluminosilicate matrices. The obtained ceramic composites are represented by anorthite, a cordierite‐like phase whose ratio varies from 1.3:1 to 2.8:1. Mullite crystals, also included in the composition, reinforce the anorthite‐cordierite matrix. The morphostructural features of the samples were studied using optical and scanning electron microscopy. The porosity ranges from 7.8% to 24.2% depending on dolomite content. The impurities of iron and titanium interfering with obtaining a qualitative product are leveled by the presented technique including the heat treatment scheme justified by thermogravimetric analysis. Obtained CMAS‐ceramics of anorthite‐cordierite composition correspond to industrial international standards by their technical characteristics and exceed the requirements for heat‐insulating and chemically resistant materials by compressive strength.
Nerve function impairment and quality of life in patients with leprosy: a prospective, observational study
Authors: Sharma Apoorva , Narang Tarun , Takkar Aastha , Padhi Bijaya Kumar , Dogra Sunil 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundThere is a limited number of studies assessing the alterations in nerve function impairment (NFI) in leprosy over an extended period of time. To the best of our knowledge, no published study has evaluated neurological state longitudinally during treatment utilizing a combination of clinical, functional (activity limitation), electrophysiological, and patient‐reported quality of life (QOL) outcomes.MethodsThis prospective, observational study included leprosy patients of all spectra. Over 1 year of treatment, cutaneous and neurological examinations were done in addition to a nerve conduction study (NCS) and sympathetic skin response (SSR) assessment. QOL and activity limitation assessments using the World Health Organization Quality of Life brief version (WHOQOL–BREF) and Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness scale (SALSA), respectively, were also performed.ResultsOut of 63 leprosy patients, loss of sensation was noted in 43 (68.2%) at baseline. At the completion of treatment, proportionate change revealed no change in 18 (28.5%), restored function in 9 (14.2%), improved status in 34 (53.9%), and deteriorated NFI in only 2 (3.1%) cases. The association between NCS‐SSR abnormalities was significant for a longer duration of disease at presentation (P = 0.04), in multibacillary cases [OR 9.12 (95% CI, 1.22–67.93)], in those in reaction [OR 3.56 (95% CI, 0.62–20.36)] and in those aged over 40 [OR 1.93 (95% CI, 0.28–13.41)]. There was an improvement in WHOQOL‐BREF and SALSA scores at release from treatment (P = 0.005 and P = 0.01, respectively).ConclusionThe majority of leprosy patients on treatment show improvement in NFI at the completion of therapy. However, change is influenced by critical factors such as bacillary load, disease duration, age, and the presence of reaction(s).
Dealing with uncertainty in healthcare performance assessment: a fuzzy network‐DEA approach with undesirable outputs
Authors: Afonso G.P. , Figueira J.R. , Ferreira D.C. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractData Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is currently the most widely used nonparametric method for assessing system performance. However, the DEA standard approach ignores the unit's structure and assumes that the data are exact and reliable. In healthcare, these assumptions may not always hold true. To address these issues, a new approach was developed, which transformed the data into fuzzy trapezoidal numbers and used a network framework. The study was conducted using data from Portuguese public hospitals, including 18 variables related to efficiency, quality, and access. The data were then applied using a slack‐based fuzzy network‐DEA model that could handle undesirable outputs. Due to significant operational and environmental differences between hospitals in Portugal, a subsampling frontier approach based on exogenous variables was used. The results suggest that there is potential to improve hospital efficiency in Portugal by around 20%, particularly in light of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Additionally, variations in performance were observed depending on the size of the hospital.
Higher haemoglobin levels are associated with impaired periodontal status
Authors: Tapiola Atte , Tapio Joona , Vähänikkilä Hannu , Tegelberg Paula , Ylöstalo Pekka , Koivunen Peppi 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAimCellular oxygen sensing mechanisms have been linked to periodontal condition, and levels of haemoglobin (Hb) (the main carrier of oxygen) can be used as a surrogate measure for hypoxia. We aimed to examine relations between Hb levels and key periodontal health parameters in a general population.Materials and MethodsThe population comprised 1711 (47% male) subjects from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966, for whom an oral health examination was carried out at 46 years of age and whose Hb levels were within the Finnish reference values. Relative risks (RRs) were estimated using Poisson regression models.ResultsThe low‐Hb tertile (mean Hb 133 g/L) had healthier anthropometric, metabolic and periodontal health parameters than the high‐Hb tertile (mean Hb 151 g/L). Multivariable regression models adjusted for risk factors showed Hb levels to be positively associated with alveolar bone loss (ABL) and periodontal pocket depth (PPD), although the associations were weaker after adjustment for key metabolic parameters and were strongly influenced by smoking status.ConclusionsHb levels within the normal variation are positively associated with PPD and ABL. The association between Hb levels and periodontal condition appeared to be more complex than had previously been anticipated.
A bibliometric analysis of alternative drug therapy options in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia
Authors: Gupta Aditya K. , Taylor Daniel , Ravi Shruthi Polla , Wang Tong , Talukder Mesbah 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundOral finasteride and topical minoxidil formulations are the only FDA‐approved drug therapies for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Research into dutasteride, topical finasteride, and nontopical minoxidil (low‐dose oral and sublingual) formulations in the treatment of AGA has spiked within recent years. Early findings show that these alternative drug therapies may have similar to improved efficacy and safety profiles relative to the conventional treatment options.AimsConducting a bibliometric analysis, compare trends in publications on these alternative drug therapies, identify key contributors, evaluate major findings from top‐cited articles, and elucidate gaps in evidence.MethodsA search was conducted on the Web of Science database for publications on the use of alternative drug therapies in the treatment of AGA. A total of 95 publications, published between January 2003—March 2024, and their citation metadata were included in the analysis.ResultsDutasteride showed the greatest (n = 37) and longest (20+ years) history of publications, as well as the highest cumulative citations (n = 914); however, nontopical minoxidil showed a burst in research activity within the last 5 years (n = 33 publications since 2019). A relatively low number of randomized control trials (n = 3) for nontopical minoxidil suggests a need for higher‐quality evidence.ConclusionsOur analysis reveals major trends, contributors, and gaps in evidence for alternative drug therapies for AGA, which can help inform researchers on their future projects in this growing field of study. There is enthusiasm for exploring off‐label formulations: nontopical forms of minoxidil (oral and sublingual), topical finasteride, and mesotherapy.
Comparison of clinical outcomes between family caregivers and professional caregivers in in‐hospital patients with acute ischaemic stroke: A prospective cohort study
Authors: He Yueyue , Wang Rui , Mo Linqi , Chen Min , Jiang Qian , Feng Ling 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAimThis study explored the impact of different care modes on the outcome of hospitalized patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) during hospitalization and 3 months after discharge.MethodsThis was a prospective cohort study comparing the outcomes at hospitalization, at discharge, and at 3 months post discharge among AIS patients with different caregiving arrangements from 9, December 2022 to 20, August 2023. The general information questionnaire, Modified Barthel Index, Shortened General Comfort Questionnaire, Perceived Social Support scale, Herth Hope Index, modified Rankin scale and EQ‐5D‐5L were utilized for the investigation.ResultsThe psychological evaluation scores during hospitalization, including comfort, perceived social support, and hope, did not significantly differ between the two groups of AIS patients (p > .05). Moreover, there were no significant impacts observed in terms of length of stay (LOS) at the hospital or hospitalization expense (p > .05). The proportion of patients with intact functionality was greater in the family caregiver group 3 months after discharge (16.5%). However, when stratified based on prognosis, the difference in outcomes between the two groups of patients did not reach statistical significance (p > .05). The analysis of ADL, quality of life and stroke recurrence in 276 surviving ischaemic stroke patients 3 months post discharge indicated no differences between the two groups across all three aspects (p > .05).ConclusionOlder and divorced or widowed AIS patients tend to prefer professional caregivers. The psychological state during hospitalization, length of hospital stay and hospitalization expenses are not influenced by the caregiving model. Three months post discharge, a greater proportion of patients in the family caregiving group had intact mRS functionality, but this choice did not impact patient prognosis, stroke recurrence, quality of life or independence in ADL.
Can temporomandibular disorder symptoms and headaches be prevented in 13‐ to 15‐year‐old girls by information provided in a school setting?
Authors: Mejersjö Christina , Wänman Anders , Wenneberg Bengt , Bergström Eva‐Karin 
Published: June 2024

AbstractObjectiveTemporomandibular disorders (TMD) may develop, especially among girls, during the adolescence period. The aim of this study was to study if information and advice in a school setting could prevent development of TMD symptoms and headaches during the early teenage period.MethodsThirteen‐year‐old girls, at 19 upper elementary schools were invited to participate in a study with structured information about the jaw system, TMD symptoms and risk factors, as well as advice how to manage risk factor and TMD. Six hundred and fifty‐one girls enrolled, of which 507 girls were followed for 2–2.5 years. Half received information on three occasions (cases), and the other half served as controls. Included in the analysis of incidence of TMD symptoms were those without frequently occurring TMD symptoms (not including headaches) at baseline (n = 396) and included in the analysis of incidence of headaches were those without frequent headaches at baseline (n = 297).ResultThe 2‐year incidence of TMD symptoms was significantly lower in the information cohort (19%) compared to the controls (28%) (p = .03). The 2‐year incidence of headaches was lower among those who were allocated to information (30%) compared to controls (40%), but the difference was not statistically significant (p = .099). Cases who had headaches at baseline reported a significantly lower prevalence at follow‐up compared to controls (p = .03).ConclusionStandardized information in school settings can prevent development of TMD symptoms and headaches among young girls.
Strategy to identify common beans with resistance to white mould for dry‐irrigated areas: Additional evidence
Authors: Teixeira Pablo H. , Lima Renan C. , Paula Trazilbo J. , Carneiro José Eustáquio S. , Braun Heder , Silva Júlia E. A. , Vieira Rogério F. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractIn a previous study, common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) genotypes were selected in the field for reactions to white mould (WM), caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. These genotypes, along with the resistant control A195, were then evaluated in both field and greenhouse (straw test) conditions. The results showed that field trials effectively identified high‐yielding WM‐resistant genotypes for dry‐irrigated conditions. Here we challenge the results of this study with new data and methodology by conducting six sprinkler‐irrigated trials from 2015 to 2017 with five genotype groups (G). Three groups comprised genotypes previously studied: G1, seven partially resistant; G4, two intermediately resistant; and G5, three susceptible. G2 consisted of four lines selected for partial resistance in the current study. The resistant control group, G3, comprised the genotypes A195, G122, Cornell605, and Ouro Branco. WM was absent (one trial), or pressure was either low/moderate (two trials) or moderate/high (three trials). The average seed yield ranged from 2207 (G3) to 3178 kg/ha (G1). The contrast G1, G2 versus G3 was nonsignificant for incidence and severity index, indicating that genotypes selected for resistance in the field were as resistant as the resistant control genotypes. Additionally, the groups selected for resistance yielded 43% more and produced 33% less sclerotia weight compared with the control group. Our results reinforce the effectiveness of selecting WM‐resistant genotypes using beans originally bred for purposes other than WM‐resistance, specifically targeting dry‐irrigated areas. Furthermore, our results suggest that the use of genotypes selected for partial resistance reduces inoculum levels in the soil.
Progression from healthy periodontium to gingivitis and periodontitis: Insights from bioinformatics‐driven proteomics – A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Ahmad Paras , Escalante‐Herrera Andrea , Marin Lina M. , Siqueira Walter L. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAimThe current study aimed to: (1) systematically review the published literature regarding the proteomics analyses of saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in healthy humans and gingivitis and/or periodontitis patients; and (2) to identify the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) based on the systematic review, and comprehensively conduct meta‐analyses and bioinformatics analyses.MethodsAn online search of Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed was performed without any restriction on the year and language of publication. After the identification of the DEPs reported by the included human primary studies, gene ontology (GO), the Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway (KEGG), protein–protein interaction (PPI), and meta‐analyses were conducted. The risk of bias among the included studies was evaluated using the modified Newcastle–Ottawa quality assessment scale.ResultsThe review identified significant differences in protein expression between healthy individuals and those with gingivitis and periodontitis. In GCF, 247 proteins were upregulated and 128 downregulated in periodontal diseases. Saliva analysis revealed 79 upregulated and 70 downregulated proteins. There were distinct protein profiles between gingivitis and periodontitis, with 159 and 31 unique upregulated proteins in GCF, respectively. Meta‐analyses confirmed significant upregulation of various proteins in periodontitis, including ALB and MMP9, while CSTB and GSTP1 were downregulated. AMY1A and SERPINA1 were upregulated in periodontitis saliva. HBD was upregulated in gingivitis GCF, while DEFA3 was downregulated. PPI analysis revealed complex networks of interactions among DEPs. GO and KEGG pathway analyses provided insights into biological processes and pathways associated with periodontal diseases.ConclusionThe ongoing MS‐based proteomics studies emphasize the need for a highly sensitive and specific diagnostic tool for periodontal diseases. Clinician acceptance of the eventual diagnostic method relies on its ability to provide superior or complementary information to current clinical assessment procedures. Future research should prioritize the multiplex measurement of multiple biomarkers simultaneously to enhance diagnostic accuracy and large study cohorts are necessary to ensure the validity and reliability of research findings.
Household food and water insecurity and its association with diarrhoea, respiratory illness, and stunting in Ecuadorian children under 5 years
Authors: Chakraborty Rishika , Armijos Rodrigo X. , Beidelman Erika T. , Rosenberg Molly , Margaret Weigel M. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractHousehold food and water insecurity has been previously associated with adverse health consequences in children. However, these relationships are understudied in middle‐income Latin American populations such as in Ecuador, where a high prevalence of food and water insecurity has been reported. Using cross‐sectional data from 2018 Ecuadorian National Health and Nutrition Survey, we examined the association of household food insecurity (HFI), household water insecurity (HWI), and concurrent HFI‐HWI with diarrhoea, respiratory illness (RI), and stunting in 20,510 children aged ≤59 months. HFI was measured using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale. HWI was defined when households responded negatively to one or more of four drinking water indicators. Maternal caregivers reported on child diarrhoea and RI episodes during the previous 2 weeks. Measured length or height was used to assess stunting. We constructed log‐binomial regression models to estimate the associations of HFI, HWI, and concurrent HFI‐HWI with child outcomes. Moderate‐severe HFI was associated with a higher prevalence of diarrhoea (PR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.18, 1.63) and RI (PR = 1.34; 95% CI: 1.22, 1.47), HWI with a higher prevalence of RI (PR = 1.13; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.22), and concurrent HFI‐HWI with a higher prevalence of diarrhoea (PR = 1.30; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.62) and RI (PR = 1.45; 95% CI: 1.29, 1.62). Stunting was not associated with HFI, HWI nor concurrent HFI‐HWI. These findings suggest that HFI and HWI can independently and jointly act to negatively affect children's health. Policies and interventions aimed at alleviating both food and water insecurity are needed to bring sustained health improvements in Ecuadorian children.
Urinary eosinophil‐derived neurotoxin is associated with reduced lung function in pediatric asthma
Authors: Omony Jimmy , Thölken Clemens , Salimi Azam , Laubhahn Kristina , Illi Sabina , Weckmann Markus , Grychtol Ruth , Rabe Klaus Friedrich , Thiele Dominik , Foth Svenja , Weber Stefanie , Brinkmann Folke , Kopp Matthias Volkmar , Hansen Gesine , Renz Harald , von Mutius Erika , Schaub Bianca , Skevaki Chrysanthi ,   the ALLIANCE Study Group
Published: June 2024

AbstractIntroductionEosinophil‐derived neurotoxin (EDN) is a biomarker for eosinophilic activation. Urinary (u) EDN may allow non‐invasive monitoring of asthma, but clinical recommendations are lacking. We assessed the potential of uEDN as a marker of disease activity in pediatric asthma.MethodsWe assessed urine samples of 371 children from the German ALLIANCE study cohort, from which we had: 169 preschool wheezers (<6 years), 80 asthmatics (≥6 years), and 122 healthy controls using the ImmunoCAP™ EDN Assay. Creatinine (Cr)‐adjusted uEDN values were analyzed using correlations, association tests, (non) parametric statistics, multiple linear, and multivariable regression.ResultsuEDN/uCr values were higher in atopic versus non‐atopic preschool‐aged subjects (p = .035) and associated with the sum of allergen‐specific IgE in younger (r = 0.24, p = .003), and older subjects (r = 0.23, p = .043). uEDN/uCr was marginally a good determinant for atopy (p = .078, for subjects aged <6 years, and p = .058 for subjects ≥6 years). Children with the T2‐high phenotype had higher uEDN/uCr (p < .001) versus T2‐low—irrespective of using uEDN/uCr or blood eosinophils in combination to allergen sIgE for disease phenotyping. uEDN/uCr significantly correlated with reduced lung function among asthmatics (FEV1 z‐scores: r = −0.30, p = .007, and FEV1/FVC z‐scores: r = −0.24, p = .038). Using multivariable modeling, uEDN/uCr was an independent determinant of FEV1 (p = .038), and to a lesser extent, FEV1/FVC (p = .080).ConclusionsuEDN/uCr may serve as a non‐invasive biomarker for clinical features such as lung function in pediatric asthma. We highlight the utility of uEDN/uCr as a biomarker that can be easily assessed using widely available robust diagnostic immunoassays.
Mortality‐associated risk factors for transfusion‐associated circulatory overload
Authors: Soni Lipika , Saeed Samia , Cserti‐Gazdewich Christine , McVey Mark J. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesRespiratory transfusion reactions associate strongly with morbidity and mortality, and transfusion‐associated circulatory overload (TACO) is the leading cause of reaction‐related deaths. Risk factors for TACO include transfusion speed and volume and cardiorenal comorbidities.Materials and MethodsAn academic health network haemovigilance database was interrogated to assess variables associating with 371 cases of TACO and involved‐visit outcomes, using univariate and multivariate regression analysis.ResultsTACO reactions over 11 years were reported in 179 males and 192 females, median age (interquartile range) 65 (53–75) years. In‐hospital and 28‐day mortality were 17.5% and 12.9%, respectively. In univariate regression modelling, male sex, injury severity grade, product volume administered, the use of platelets and intensive care admissions were each associated with in‐hospital and 28‐day mortality (p < 0.05). However, after multivariate regression analysis, only male sex in transfusion recipients independently associated with mortality (p < 0.05).ConclusionIn this cohort, male recipient sex and platelet administration were associated with TACO‐involving admissions not ending in survival.