bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of interleukin-6, ferritin, and lactate dehydrogenase with venous thromboembolism in COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Haiyu , Guo Ningjing , Zheng Qixian , Zhang Qianyuan , Chen Jinghan , Cai Yuanyuan , Luo Qiong , Xu Qian , Chen Xiangqi , Yang Sheng , Zhang Suyun 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is frequntly accompanied by venous thromboembolism (VTE), and its mechanism may be related to the abnormal inflammation and immune status of COVID-19 patients. It has been proved that interleukin-6 (IL-6), ferritin and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) may play an important role in the occurrence of VTE in COVID-19 infection. But whether they can server as predictors for VTE in COVID-19 is still unclear. In this study, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare IL-6, ferritin and LDH in VTE and non-VTE COVID-19 patients in order to shed light on the prevention and treatment of VTE.

Methods
Related literatures were searched in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WANGFANG. COVID-19 patients were divided into VTE group and non-VTE group. Meta-analysis was then conducted to compare levels of IL-6, ferritin and LDH between the two groups.

Results
We finally included and analyzed 17 literatures from January 2019 to October 2022. There was a total of 7,035 COVID-19 patients, with a weighted mean age of 60.01 years. Males accounted for 62.64% and 61.34% patients were in intensive care unit (ICU). Weighted mean difference (WMD) of IL-6, ferritin and LDH was 31.15 (95% CI: 9.82, 52.49), 257.02 (95% CI: 51.70, 462.33) and 41.79 (95% CI: -19.38, 102.96), respectively. The above results indicated that than compared with non-VTE group, VTE group had significantly higher levels of IL-6 and ferritin but similar LDH.

Conclusion
This systematic review and meta-analysis pointed out that elevated levels of IL-6 and ferritin were significantly possitive associated with VTE, thus could be used as biological predictive indicators of VTE among COVID-19 patients. However, no association was found between level of LDH and VTE. Therefore, close monitoring of changes in IL-6 and ferritin concentrations is of great value in assisting clinicans to rapidly identify thrombotic complications among COVID-19 patients, hence facilitating the timely effective managment. Further studies are required in terms of the clinical role of cytokines in the occurrence of VTE among COVID-19 infection, with more reliable systematic controls and interventional trials.
The moderating role of social support in the relationship between death anxiety and resilience among dialysis patients
Authors: Kisomi Zahra Shafiei , Taherkhani Omid , Mollaei Mina , Esmaeily Hoda , Shirkhanloo Ghazaleh , Hosseinkhani Zahra , Amerzadeh Mohammad 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundChronic Kidney Disease (CKD) who receive social support can cope with the challenges. Therefore, this study determined the moderating role of social support in the relationship between death anxiety and resilience among dialysis patients in Qazvin City.MethodsThis cross-sectional study used a descriptive-analytical approach on 347 dialysis patients in Qazvin City. The data collection tools included several questionnaires. The convenience sampling method was employed. The data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22 and mplus software version 7.2, employing descriptive statistics, such as mean and standard deviation for continuous variables and using counts and percentages for categorical/nominal variables. Regression analysis and tests were used to examine the relationships between variables. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis was employed to determine direct and indirect relationships between independent and dependent variables.ResultsThe prevalence of death anxiety was high (48.3%) among the patients. The mean resilience score was 62.59 ± 15.69, and the mean social support score was 52.23 ± 10.21. There was a significant association between resilience and social support (P < 0.001), as well as between resilience and death anxiety (P < 0.001). Furthermore, a significant relationship was observed between social support and death anxiety (p = 0.015). In the analysis of SEM, both the direct and indirect relationships between resilience and death anxiety were significant through the mediating variable of social support.ConclusionThis study demonstrates that there is a relationship between death anxiety and resilience, and social support significantly moderates the relationship between death anxiety and resilience.
Drug utilization in patients starting haemodialysis with a focus on cardiovascular and antidiabetic medications: an epidemiological study in the Lazio region (Italy), 2016–2020
Authors: Kirchmayer Ursula , Marino Claudia , Feriozzi Sandro , Massimetti Carlo , Manzuoli Micol , Angelici Laura , Bargagli Anna Maria , Cascini Silvia , Addis Antonio , Davoli Marina , Agabiti Nera 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Entering dialysis is a critical moment in patients’ healthcare journey, and little is known about drug therapy around it. A study funded by the Italian Medicines Agency offered the opportunity to leverage data from the Lazio Regional Dialysis and Transplant Registry (RRDTL) and perform an observational study on drug use patterns before and after initiating chronic dialysis.

Methods
Individuals initiating dialysis in 2016–2020 were identified from RRDTL, excluding patients with prior renal transplantation, stopping dialysis early, or dying within 12 months. Use of study drugs, predefined by clinicians, in the two years around the index date was retrieved from the drug claims register and described by semester. For each drug group, proportions of users (min 2 claims in 6 months) by semester, and intensity of treatment in terms of Defined Daily Doses (DDDs) for cardiovascular and antidiabetic agents were compared across semesters, stratifying by sex and age.

Results
In our cohort of 3,882 patients we observed a general increase in drug use after initiating dialysis, with the mean number rising from 5.5 to 6.2. Cardiovascular agents accounted for the highest proportions, along with proton pump inhibitors and antithrombotics over all semesters. Dialysis-specific therapies showed the most evident increase, in particular anti-anaemics (iron 4-fold, erythropoietins almost 2-fold), anti-parathyroids (6-fold), and chelating agents (4-fold). Use of cardiovascular and antidiabetic drugs was characterised by significant variations in terms of patterns and intensity, with some differences between sexes and age groups.

Conclusions
Entering dialysis is associated with increased use of specific drugs and goes along with adaptations of chronic therapies.
The footprint of SARS-COV-2 infection in neonatal late sepsis
Authors: Jamali Zahra , Mohammadpour Najmeh , Sinaei Reza , Jafari Maedeh , Sabzevari Fatemeh , Hasannejad Mohammad 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Predicting and finding the viral agents responsible for neonatal late-sepsis has always been challenging.

Method
In this cross-sectional study, which has been done from September 2020 to December 2022, 145 hospitalized neonates suspected to late-onset sepsis alongside routine sepsis workup, were also evaluated for severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-COV-2) infection, by nasopharyngeal real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or serological tests.

Result
145 neonates including 81 girls and 64 boys with a mean age of 12.3 ± 5.9 days and an average hospitalization stay of 23.1 ± 15.4 days were enrolled in the study. While 76.6% of them had negative bacterial culture, 63 patients (43.4%) showed evidence of SARS-COV-2 infection in RT-PCR or serology tests. None of the underlying factors including gender, age, and laboratory investigation had a significant relationship with SARS-COV-2 infection. Similarly, the outcomes of death and length of hospitalization were not different between the two groups with positive and negative SARS-COV-2 RT-PCR (P < 0.05). There was only a significant relationship between radiological changes including reticulonodular pattern, consolidation, pleural effusion, and different types of infiltrations and SARS-COV2 infection.

Conclusion
Considering the widespread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in newborns, it seems logical to investigate the SARS-COV-2 infection in late-sepsis.
NLRC4 methylation and its response to intravenous immunoglobulin therapy in Kawasaki disease: a case control study
Authors: Yu Beirong , Zheng Bangxu , Shen Yu , Shen Yijing , Qiu Haiyan , Wu Ling , Chen Yuanling , Cai Xiaohong , Wu Junhua , Hong Qingxiao 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Kawasaki disease (KD) is a systemic vasculitis accompanied by many systemic physiological and biochemical changes. Elucidating its molecular mechanisms is crucial for diagnosing and developing effective treatments. NLR Family CARD Domain Containing 4 (NLRC4) encodes the key components of inflammasomes that function as pattern recognition receptors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of NLRC4 methylation as a biomarker for KD.

Methods
In this study, pyrosequencing was utilized to analyze NLRC4 promoter methylation in blood samples from 44 children with initial complete KD and 51 matched healthy controls. Methylation at five CpG sites within the NLRC4 promoter region was evaluated.

Results
Compared to controls, NLRC4 methylation significantly decreased in KD patients (CpG1: p = 2.93E-06; CpG2: p = 2.35E-05; CpG3: p = 6.46E-06; CpG4: p = 2.47E-06; CpG5: p = 1.26E-05; average methylation: p = 5.42E-06). These changes were significantly reversed after intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment. ROC curve analysis demonstrated remarkable diagnostic capability of mean NLRC4 gene methylation for KD (areas under ROC curve = 0.844, sensitivity = 0.75, p = 9.61E-06, 95% confidence intervals were 0.762–0.926 for mean NLRC4 methylation). In addition, NLRC4 promoter methylation was shown to be significantly negatively correlated with the levels of central granulocyte percentage, age, mean haemoglobin quantity and mean erythrocyte volume. Besides, NLRC4 promoter methylation was positively correlated with lymphocyte percentage, lymphocyte absolute value.

Conclusions
Our work revealed the role of peripheral NLRC4 hypomethylation in KD pathogenesis and IVIG treatment response, could potentially serve as a treatment monitoring biomarker, although its precise functions remain to be elucidated.
Aberrant SOX10 and RET expressions in patients with Hirschsprung disease
Authors: Gunadi  , Amadeus Verrell Christopher , Utami Fadila Dyah Trie , Halim Fiqih Vidiantoro , Novebri Nabilah Anisa , Hanggoro Rahaditya Alrasyidi , Lestari Avinindita Nura , Iskandar Kristy , Dwihantoro Andi , Purnomo Eko 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
HSCR is a complex genetic disorder characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the intestine, leading to a functional obstruction. It is due to a disruption of complex signaling pathways within the gene regulatory network (GRN) during the development of the enteric nervous system (ENS), including SRY-Box Transcription Factor 10 (SOX10) and REarranged during Transfection (RET). This study evaluated the expressions of SOX10 and RET in HSCR patients in Indonesia.

Methods
Total RNA of 19 HSCR ganglionic and aganglionic colons and 16 control colons were analyzed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for SOX10 and RET with GAPDH as the reference gene. Livak’s method (2−ΔΔCT) was used to determine the expression levels of SOX10 and RET.

Results
Most patients were males (68.4%), in the short aganglionosis segment (78.9%), and had undergone transanal endorectal pull-through (36.6%). There were significant upregulated SOX10 expressions in both ganglionic (2.84-fold) and aganglionic (3.72-fold) colon of HSCR patients compared to controls’ colon (ΔCT 5.21 ± 2.04 vs. 6.71 ± 1.90; p = 0.032; and ΔCT 4.82 ± 1.59 vs. 6.71 ± 1.90; p = 0.003; respectively). Interestingly, the RET expressions were significantly downregulated in both ganglionic (11.71-fold) and aganglionic (29.96-fold) colon of HSCR patients compared to controls’ colon (ΔCT 12.54 ± 2.21 vs. 8.99 ± 3.13; p = 0.0004; and ΔCT 13.90 ± 2.64 vs. 8.99 ± 3.13; p = 0.0001; respectively).

Conclusions
Our study shows aberrant SOX10 and RET expressions in HSCR patients, implying the critical role of SOX10 and RET in the pathogenesis of HSCR, particularly in the Indonesian population. Our study further confirms the involvement of SOX10-RET within the GNR during the ENS development.
Proportion of vitamin D deficiency in children/adolescents with type 1 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Xin , Chai Min , Lin Meng 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
The impact of vitamin D on type 1 diabetes has been a controversial topic in public health. Furthermore, significant differences in the proportion of vitamin D have been noted. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the overall proportion of vitamin D deficiency in children/adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Methods
Based on six electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Ovid Medline, ProQuest, and Cochrane Library), eligible studies since the databases’ inception up to April 2022 were searched. Reference lists were also manually searched to identify additional studies. Overall, studies with statistical information on vitamin D deficiency in children and adolescents with T1D were included, and a random effects model was applied for the meta-analysis. In addition, subgroup and sensitivity analyses were carried out to evaluate heterogeneity, and publication bias was evaluated by using Egger’s test.

Results
A total of 45 studies involving 6,995 participants met the inclusion criteria; these included 25 countries covering Africa, Oceania, Europe, North America and Asia. The proportion of vitamin D deficiency in children/adolescents with T1D was 45% (95% confidence interval [CI] 37–54%, I2 = 97.94%). Subgroup analysis further revealed that the publication year, study design, vitamin D classification, season and geographical region significantly contributed to the variation in the reported incidence of vitamin D deficiency.

Conclusions
The results of the meta-analysis showed that the proportion of vitamin D deficiency among T1D children/adolescents was 45%. In addition, the proportion remains higher, which has important implications for adapting health and social care systems.
Relationship between vitamin D levels and pediatric celiac disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sun Yanhong , Zhou Qingxue , Tian Dandan , Zhou Jianming , Dong Shilei 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
The relationship between Vitamin D levels and pediatric celiac disease (CD) remains controversial. In this study, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the relationship between Vitamin D and pediatric CD. Methods: We screened relevant studies from PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science published in English from January 1, 2000, to August 1, 2023. The included studies were assessed according to the STROBE checklist. Heterogeneity was quantified by Cochran’s Q test and the I2 statistic. Publication bias was estimated by Begg’s test and Egger’s test. Meta‐regression was used to detect potential sources of heterogeneity. Results: A total of 26 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Nineteen articles compared 25(OH)D3 levels between CD patients and control groups, average 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3 or calcidiol], and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3 or calcitriol] levels, as the main forms of Vitamin D, there was a significant difference in CD patients and healthy controls (weighted mean difference (WMD) = − 5.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [− 10.86, − 0.69] nmol/L). Meanwhile, eleven articles reported the numbers of patients and controls with Vitamin D deficiency, there was a significant difference in the incidence of 25(OH)D3 deficiency between CD patients and healthy controls (odds ratio 2.20, 95% CI= [1.19, 4.08]). Nine articles reported changes in 25(OH)D3 levels before and after administering a GFD in patients with CD, the result of this study revealed the increase of 25(OH)D3 levels in CD patients after a gluten-free diet (GFD) (WMD = − 6.74, 95% CI = [− 9.78, − 3.70] nmol/L). Conclusions: Vitamin D levels in pediatric CD patients were lower than in healthy controls, and 25(OH)D3 deficiency was more prevalent in CD patients. We found that 25(OH)D3 levels were elevated in CD patients after GFD, which is consistent with previous research. Further well-designed, longitudinal, prospective cohort studies focusing on the role of Vitamin D in the pathogenesis of CD are therefore needed.
One-year follow-up of the effectiveness and mediators of cognitive behavioural therapy among adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: secondary outcomes of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Pan Mei-Rong , Dong Min , Zhang Shi-Yu , Liu Lu , Li Hai-Mei , Wang Yu-Feng , Qian Qiu-Jin 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
The long-term effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in medicated attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) adults with residual symptoms needs to be verified across multiple dimensions, especially with respect to maladaptive cognitions and psychological quality of life (QoL). An exploration of the mechanisms underlying the additive benefits of CBT on QoL in clinical samples may be helpful for a better understanding of the CBT conceptual model and how CBT works in medicated ADHD.

Methods
We conducted a secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial including 98 medicated ADHD adults with residual symptoms who were randomly allocated to the CBT combined with medication (CBT + M) group or the medication (M)-only group. Outcomes included ADHD-core symptoms (ADHD Rating Scale), depression symptoms (Self-rating Depression Scale), maladaptive cognitions (Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire and Dysfunctional Attitude Scale), and psychological QoL (World Health Organization Quality of Life-Brief Version-psychological domain). Mixed linear models (MLMs) were used to analyse the long-term effectiveness at one-year follow-up, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was performed to explore the potential mechanisms of CBT on psychological QoL.

Results
ADHD patients in the CBT + M group outperformed the M-only group in reduction of ADHD core symptoms (d = 0.491), depression symptoms (d = 0.570), a trend of reduction of maladaptive cognitions (d = 0.387 and 0.395, respectively), and improvement of psychological QoL (d = − 0.433). The changes in above dimensions correlated with each other (r = 0.201 ~ 0.636). The influence of CBT on QoL was mediated through the following four pathways: 1) changes in ADHD core symptoms; 2) changes in depressive symptoms; 3) changes in depressive symptoms and then maladaptive cognitions; and 4) changes firstly in depressive symptoms, maladaptive cognitions, and then ADHD core symptoms.

Conclusions
The long-term effectiveness of CBT in medicated ADHD adults with residual symptoms was further confirmed. The CBT conceptual model was verified in clinical samples, which would be helpful for a deeper understanding of how CBT works for a better psychological QoL outcome.

Trial registration
ChiCTR1900021705 (2019-03-05).
Test-retest reliability and concurrent validity assessment of a novel high-frequency sensor device for anterior tibial translation measurement in loaded and unloaded condition: an exploratory cross-sectional study
Authors: Deiss Valentin , Bähler Philippe , Kolly Pascal , Schärer Anton , Henle Philippe , Eichelberger Patric , Lutz Nathanael , Baur Heiner 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and manual tests remain the standard for diagnosing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture. Furthermore, the passive knee displacement, also described as anterior tibial translation (ATT), is used in order to make decisions about surgery or to assess rehabilitation outcomes. Unfortunately, these manual tests are limited to passive situations, and their application to assess knee stability in loaded, weight-bearing positions are missing. Therefore, a new device with high-performance sensors and a new sensor setting was developed. The aim of this exploratory cross-sectional study was to assess the test-retest reliability of this new device in a first step and the concurrent validity in a second step.

Methods
A total of 20 healthy volunteers were measured. Measurement consistency of the new device was assessed on the basis of reliability during Lachman test setting and in loaded position by artificial knee perturbation in a test-retest procedure. In a second step, the concurrent validity was evaluated with the Lachmeter® as a reference instrument. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), the minimal detectable change (MDC) and Bland-Altman analysis were evaluated to assess the quality criteria.

Results
The measurements with the new device during the Lachman test provided a mean ATT of 5.46±2.22mm. The SEM ranged from 0.60 to 0.69mm resulting in an MDC between 1.67 and 1.93mm for the new device. In the loaded test situation, the mean ATT was 2.11±1.20mm, with test-retest reliability also showing good correlation (r>0.83). The comparison of the two measurement methods with an ICC of (r>0.89) showed good correlation, which also underlines the reasonable agreement of the Bland-Altman analysis.

Conclusions
The evaluation of the test-retest reliability of the new device during the knee stability testing in passive situation as well as in a functional, loaded situation presented good reliability. In addition, the new device demonstrated good agreement with the reference device and therefore good validity. Furthermore, the quality criteria demonstrated the ability of the new device to detect the cut-off value (3-5mm) described in the literature for the diagnosis of ACL-deficient knees, which underlines the clinical relevance of this new device as a reliable and valid tool.
The utilization of decision trees on orthopantomographic and lateral panoramic graphs for the diagnosis of unilateral anterior disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint
Authors: Naralan Muhammed Enes , Cakir Binali , Orhan Kaan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Investigation is to utilize decision trees in conjunction with orthopantomography (OPT) and lateral panoramic graphy (LPG) to diagnose unilateral anterior disc displacement (ADD) of the temporomandibular joint.

Methods
In this study, 161 patients with images obtained through all three imaging methods, MRI, OPT, and LPG, were selected from the archives. The participants were categorized into two groups: the study group, comprising 89 patients with unilateral anterior disc displacement, and the control group, consisting of 72 healthy individuals. Measurements, including 2 angles (antero-posterior angle and superior-inferior angle) and 3 distance parameters (anterior joint space distance, superior joint space distance, and posterior joint space distance), were conducted on each imaging modality dataset. To assess the obtained measurement data within each patient, the differences from each measurement were calculated. Statistical analysis of the measurement differences between the control and study groups was carried out with independent t test, and decision trees were generated using the SPSS 25 decision tree module 5.0.

Results
In ADD patients, it was statistically significantly found that the APA increased while the SIA decreased for angle measurements. But for linear measurements, AS increased while the SS and PS decreased in MRI, OPT, and LPG.

Conclusion
ADD can be diagnosed in OPT and LPG. The identification of the specific type of ADD that occurs in the temporomandibular joint is not feasible.