bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Body mass index modified the effectiveness of low dose aspirin treatment on frozen-thawed embryo transfer outcome: a propensity score-matched study
Authors: Chen Kaijie , Cai Jiali , Tong Jie , Liu Lanlan , Liu Zhenfang , Chen Jinhua , Yang Xiaolian , Yang Chao , Geng Jie , Ma Caihui , Ren Jianzhi , Jiang Xiaoming 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundLow-dose aspirin is one of the widely used adjuvants in assisted reproductive technologies with the hope of improving the live birth rate. However, the studies regarding its effects are conflicting. The study aimed to investigate the association between aspirin administration and live birth following frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) in patients with different body mass index (BMI).MethodsA retrospective cohort study was performed on 11,993 patients receiving FET treatments. 644 of which received a low-dose aspirin (100 mg/day) during endometrial preparation until 10 weeks after transfer. Propensity score matching was performed to avoid selection biases and potential confounders.ResultsThe clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate were similar before matching (54.4% versus 55.4%, RR: 1.02, 95%CI: 0.95-1.09, and 46.3 versus 47.8, RR: 1.03, 95%CI: 0.95-1.12 respectively). A weak association in favor of aspirin administration was found in the matched cohort (49.5% versus 55.4%, RR: 1.12, 95%CI: 1.01-1.24, and 41.9% versus 47.8%, RR: 1.14, 95%CI: 1.01-1.29 respectively). However, when stratified the patients with WHO BMI criteria, a significant increase in live birth rate associated with aspirin treatment was found only in patients with low BMI (&lt;18.5 kg/m2) in either unmatched (46.4% versus 59.8%, RR:1.29, 95%CI:1.07-1.55) or matched cohort (44% versus 59.8%, RR: 1.36, 95%CI: 1.01-1.83) but not in patients with higher BMI categories. With the interaction analysis, less association between aspirin and live birth appeared in patients with normal BMI (Ratio of OR:0.49, 95%CI: 0.29-0.81) and high BMI (Ratio of OR:0.57, 95%CI: 0.27-1.2) compared with patients with low BMI.ConclusionBMI may be considered when evaluating aspirin’s effect in FET cycles.
Private sector quality of care for maternal, new-born, and child health in low-and-middle-income countries: a secondary review
Authors: Morris Georgina , Maliqi Blerta , Lattof Samantha R. , Strong Joe , Yaqub Nuhu 
Published: April 2024

The private sector has emerged as a crucial source of maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) care in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Quality within the MNCH private sector varies and has not been established systematically. This study systematically reviews findings on private-sector delivery of quality MNCH care in LMICs through the six domains of quality care (QoC) (i.e., efficiency, equity, effectiveness, people-centered care, safety, and timeliness). We registered the systematic review with PROSPERO international prospective register of systematic reviews (registration number CRD42019143383) and followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement for clear and transparent reporting of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Searches were conducted in eight electronic databases and two websites. For inclusion, studies in LMICs must have examined at least one of the following outcomes using qualitative, quantitative, and/or mixed-methods: maternal morbidity, maternal mortality, newborn morbidity, newborn mortality, child morbidity, child mortality, service utilization, quality of care, and/or experience of care including respectful care. Outcome data was extracted for descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Of the 139 included studies, 110 studies reported data on QoC. Most studies reporting on QoC occurred in India (19.3%), Uganda (12.3%), and Bangladesh (8.8%). Effectiveness was the most widely measured quality domain with 55 data points, followed by people-centered care (n = 52), safety (n = 47), timeliness (n = 31), equity (n = 24), and efficiency (n = 4). The review showed inconsistencies in care quality across private and public facilities, with quality varying across the six domains. Factors such as training, guidelines, and technical competence influenced the quality. There were also variations in how domains like “people-centered care” have been understood and measured over time. The review underscores the need for clearer definitions of “quality” and practical QoC measures, central to the success of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and equitable health outcomes. This research addresses how quality MNCH care has been defined and operationalized to understand how quality is delivered across the private health sector and the larger health system. Numerous variables and metrics under each QoC domain highlight the difficulty in systematizing QoC. These findings have practical significance to both researchers and policymakers.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/10/2/e033141.long, Identifier [CRD42019143383].
An evaluation of patient comfort levels during expression with a modified pumping program: a prospective proof of concept study
Authors: Manshanden T. M. Nicole , Prime Danielle K. , Scheele Fedde , Velzel Joost 
Published: April 2024

IntroductionThis study aimed to assess if the implementation of a gentle transition of vacuum mode into a breast pump suction pattern commonly used to initiate milk production would improve user comfort while expressing during the first four days postpartum.MethodsThis prospective study was conducted at OLVG hospital in the Netherlands in two sequential phases. Breastfeeding patients delivering &gt;36 weeks gestation with an infant aged ≤96 h old and a clinical indication to express milk with a breast pump were recruited. Intervention group 1 (n = 40) used a hospital-grade electric breast pump with a standard breast pump suction pattern. Intervention group 2 used a hospital-grade electric breast pump with a modified breast pump suction pattern (n = 40). The primary outcome was an objective assessment of comfort as measured by participants' need to reduce vacuum level during the 20 min test session. Secondary outcomes included the total expression volume (ml) in 20 min pumping.ResultsThe study found that the primary outcome of comfort was significantly improved with the modified breast pump suction pattern compared to the standard pattern (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.6) with 86% vs. 67% of participants not needing to reduce applied vacuum levels. The amount of milk expressed did not differ significantly between phases (group 1: 7.6 ml (2.7–25.5 ml), group 2: 12.0 ml (1.2–31.5 ml), p = 0.43).DiscussionThis study is the first to demonstrate an improvement in user comfort driven by the implementation of gentle transitions in vacuum modes in a commonly used breast pump suction pattern. Research into this novel population combining both pumping and breastfeeding in the first days after birth offers new unique insights on the requirements of breast pump suction patterns.Trial registrationRegistered on clinical trials.gov NCT04619212. Date of registration November 6, 2020.
Potential therapeutic targets for membranous nephropathy: proteome-wide Mendelian randomization and colocalization analysis
Authors: Su Zhihang , Wan Qijun 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundThe currently available medications for treating membranous nephropathy (MN) still have unsatisfactory efficacy in inhibiting disease recurrence, slowing down its progression, and even halting the development of end-stage renal disease. There is still a need to develop novel drugs targeting MN.MethodsWe utilized summary statistics of MN from the Kiryluk Lab and obtained plasma protein data from Zheng et al. We performed a Bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis, HEIDI test, mediation analysis, Bayesian colocalization, phenotype scanning, drug bank analysis, and protein-protein interaction network.ResultsThe Mendelian randomization analysis uncovered 8 distinct proteins associated with MN after multiple false discovery rate corrections. Proteins related to an increased risk of MN in plasma include ABO [(Histo-Blood Group Abo System Transferase) (WR OR = 1.12, 95%CI:1.05-1.19, FDR=0.09, PPH4 = 0.79)], VWF [(Von Willebrand Factor) (WR OR = 1.41, 95%CI:1.16-1.72, FDR=0.02, PPH4 = 0.81)] and CD209 [(Cd209 Antigen) (WR OR = 1.19, 95%CI:1.07-1.31, FDR=0.09, PPH4 = 0.78)], and proteins that have a protective effect on MN: HRG [(Histidine-Rich Glycoprotein) (WR OR = 0.84, 95%CI:0.76-0.93, FDR=0.02, PPH4 = 0.80)], CD27 [(Cd27 Antigen) (WR OR = 0.78, 95%CI:0.68-0.90, FDR=0.02, PPH4 = 0.80)], LRPPRC [(Leucine-Rich Ppr Motif-Containing Protein, Mitochondrial) (WR OR = 0.79, 95%CI:0.69-0.91, FDR=0.09, PPH4 = 0.80)], TIMP4 [(Metalloproteinase Inhibitor 4) (WR OR = 0.67, 95%CI:0.53-0.84, FDR=0.09, PPH4 = 0.79)] and MAP2K4 [(Dual Specificity Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase 4) (WR OR = 0.82, 95%CI:0.72-0.92, FDR=0.09, PPH4 = 0.80)]. ABO, HRG, and TIMP4 successfully passed the HEIDI test. None of these proteins exhibited a reverse causal relationship. Bayesian colocalization analysis provided evidence that all of them share variants with MN. We identified type 1 diabetes, trunk fat, and asthma as having intermediate effects in these pathways.ConclusionsOur comprehensive analysis indicates a causal effect of ABO, CD27, VWF, HRG, CD209, LRPPRC, MAP2K4, and TIMP4 at the genetically determined circulating levels on the risk of MN. These proteins can potentially be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of MN.
Strengthening clinical bacteriology laboratory diagnostics to combat sepsis and antimicrobial resistance in Benin: a train-the-trainer approach
Authors: Koudokpon Hornel , Legba Brice Boris , Dougnon Victorien , Mero Sointu , Bankole Honoré , Haukka Kaisa 
Published: April 2024

IntroductionImproved laboratory diagnostics is needed to support sepsis diagnosis and combat increasing antibiotic resistance in Benin. We trained clinical laboratory experts and technicians to improve their skills in accurate and up-to-date diagnostics.MethodsA Train-the-Trainer (TtT) approach was used to design the course that combines theoretical and practical laboratory skills, specifically addressing the knowledge gaps we had previously identified in our national survey. Pedagogical methods were student-centered, including peer learning, use of online materials, practical laboratory work and pre-and post-course tests.ResultsWe first trained 10 trainers who in turn trained 40 laboratory technicians from across the country, from both public and private clinical and veterinary laboratories. The trainers also prepared standard operation procedures for blood culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing based on international standards. Three months after the training, follow-up visits were made to the laboratories where the implementation of the new skills was evaluated. The progress of the participants observed during the course and the implementation of the new skills afterwards proved the training to be effective.DiscussionThe professional networks created during the training, the empowerment that utilizes local knowledge resources, and the government support for our initiative can be expected to bring sustainability to the initiative and support the participation of Beninese laboratories in international surveillance programs in the future.
A CT texture-based nomogram for predicting futile reperfusion in patients with intraparenchymal hyperdensity after endovascular thrombectomy for acute anterior circulation large vessel occlusion
Authors: Dong Meijuan , Chen Chun , Chen Wei , An Kun 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundPost-thrombectomy intraparenchymal hyperdensity (PTIH) in patients with acute anterior circulation large vessel occlusion is a common CT sign associated with a higher incidence of futile reperfusion (FR). We aimed to develop a nomogram to predict FR specifically in patients with PTIH.MethodsWe retrospectively collected information on patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) at two stroke centers. A total of 398 patients with PTIH were included to develop and validate the nomogram, including 214 patients in the development cohort, 92 patients in the internal validation cohort and 92 patients in the external validation cohort. The nomogram was developed according to the independent predictors obtained from multivariate logistic regression analysis, including clinical factors and CT texture features extracted from hyperdense areas on CT images within half an hour after EVT. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated with integrated discrimination improvement (IDI), category-free net reclassification improvement (NRI), the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC), calibration plots, and decision curve analyses for discrimination, calibration ability, and clinical net benefits, respectively.ResultsOur nomogram was constructed based on three clinical factors (age, NIHSS score and ASPECT score) and two CT texture features (entropy and kurtosis), with AUC-ROC of 0.900, 0.897, and 0.870 in the development, internal validation, and external validation cohorts, respectively. NRI and IDI further validated the superior predictive ability of the nomogram compared to the clinical model. The calibration plot revealed good consistency between the predicted and the actual outcome. The decision curve indicated good positive net benefit and clinical validity of the nomogram.ConclusionThe nomogram enables clinicians to accurately predict FR specifically in patients with PTIH within half an hour after EVT and helps to formulate more appropriate treatment plans in the early post-EVT period.
A novel MAPT variant (E342K) as a cause of familial progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Li Hang , Li Qijun , Weng Qin , Cui Ruixue , Yen Tzu-Chen , Li Yanfeng 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundMAPT variants are a known cause of frontotemporal dementia and Parkinsonian syndrome, of which progressive supranuclear palsy syndrome (PSP) is a rare manifestation.ObjectiveTo report a novel MAPT variant in a PSP pedigree with autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, and to produce a literature review of PSP patients with MAPT variants.MethodsA comprehensive clinical, genetic, and molecular neuroimaging investigation was conducted on a 61 years-old female proband diagnosed with PSP. We also collected the clinical presentation data and history of the patient’s pedigree, and performed further genetic analysis of 4 relatives, from two generations, with and without symptoms.ResultsThe proband exhibited typical clinical manifestation of PSP. A cranial MRI revealed midbrain atrophy, and an FDG-PET scan suggested hypo-metabolic changes in caudate nucleus, left prefrontal lobe, both temporal poles, and midbrain. 18F-florzolo-tau-PET revealed tau-protein deposits in the thalamus and brainstem bilaterally. A gene test by whole-exome sequencing identified a novel MAPT variant [NM_005910.6, exon 11, c.1024G &gt; A (p.E342K)], and the same variant was also identified in one affected relative and one asymptomatic relative, a probable pre-symptomatic carrier.ConclusionThe PSP pedigree caused by the novel MAPT (E342K) variant, expanded the mutational spectrum of MAPT.
Global trends and performances of infrared imaging technology studies on acupuncture: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Feng Yuanyuan , Xia Yunfan , Fan Binke , Li Shimin , Zhang Zuyong , Fang Jianqiao 
Published: April 2024

ObjectivesTo summarize development processes and research hotspots of infrared imaging technology research on acupuncture and to provide new insights for researchers in future studies.MethodsPublications regarding infrared imaging technology in acupuncture from 2008 to 2023 were downloaded from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). VOSviewer 1.6.19, CiteSpace 6.2.R4, Scimago Graphica, and Microsoft Excel software were used for bibliometric analyses. The main analyses include collaboration analyses between countries, institutions, authors, and journals, as well as analyses on keywords and references.ResultsA total of 346 publications were retrieved from 2008 to 2023. The quantity of yearly publications increased steadily, with some fluctuations over the past 15 years. “Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine” and “American Journal of Chinese Medicine” were the top-cited journals in frequency and centrality. China has the largest number of publications, with the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine being the most prolific institution. Among authors, Litscher Gerhard from Austria (currently Swiss University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Switzerland) in Europe, was the most published and most cited author. The article published by Rojas RF was the most discussed among the cited references. Common keywords included “Acupuncture,” “Near infrared spectroscopy,” and “Temperature,” among others. Explore the relationship between acupoints and temperature through infrared thermography technology (IRT), evaluate pain objectively by functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), and explore acupuncture for functional connectivity between brain regions were the hotspots and frontier trends in this field.ConclusionThis study is the first to use bibliometric methods to explore the hotspots and cutting-edge issues in the application of infrared imaging technology in the field of acupuncture. It offers a fresh perspective on infrared imaging technology research on acupuncture and gives scholars useful data to determine the field’s hotspots, present state of affairs, and frontier trends.
The prognostic value of co-expression of stemness markers CD44 and CD133 in endometrial cancer
Authors: Jiang Peng , Tian Chenfan , Zheng Yunfeng , Gong Chunxia , Wang Jinyu , Liu Ying 
Published: April 2024

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between stemness markers (CD44 and CD133) and clinical pathological features, and to further explore the prognostic value of co-expression of CD44 &amp; CD133 in endometrial cancer (EC).MethodsClinical data of stage I-III EC patients who underwent initial surgical treatment at two large tertiary medical centers from 2015 to 2020 were retrospectively collected. Cohen’s kappa coefficient was used to show the consistency of the expression between CD44 and CD133. The correlation between co-expression of CD44 &amp; CD133 and prognosis of EC patients was explored using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis. Then, the prognosis models for early-stage (stage I-II) EC patients were constructed. Finally, stratified analysis was performed for EC patients in high-intermediate-risk and high-risk groups, Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare the survival differences between patients with and without adjuvant therapy in different co-expression states (low expression, mixed expression, high expression) of CD44 &amp; CD133.ResultsA total of 1168 EC patients were included in this study. The consistency of the expression between CD44 and CD133 was 70.5%, the kappa coefficient was 0.384. High expression of CD44 &amp; CD133 was associated with early FIGO stage (P=0.017), superficial myometrial invasion (P=0.017), and negative lymphatic vessel space invasion (P=0.017). Cox regression analysis showed that the co-expression of CD44 &amp; CD133 was significantly correlated with the prognosis of early-stage (stage I-II) patients (P=0.001 for recurrence and P=0.005 for death). Based on this, the nomogram models were successfully constructed to predict the prognosis of early-stage EC patients. Meanwhile, Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients with adjuvant therapy had a better overall prognosis than those without adjuvant therapy in high-intermediate-risk and high-risk groups. However, there was no statistically significant difference in survival between patients with and without adjuvant therapy in high expression of CD44 &amp; CD133 group (P=0.681 for recurrence, P=0.621 for death).ConclusionHigh expression of CD44 &amp; CD133 was closely related to the adverse prognosis of early-stage EC patients. Meanwhile, patients with high expression of CD44 &amp; CD133 may not be able to achieve significant survival benefits from adjuvant therapy.
Malignant phyllodes tumor of the breast with predominant osteosarcoma and chondrosarcomatous differentiation: a rare case report and review of literature
Authors: Li Wenfang , Ou Qin , Li Yingdong , Yuan Linlin Yuan 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundPhyllodes tumors (PTs), which account for less than 1% of mammary gland tumors, composed of both epithelial and stromal components. If a malignant heterologous component is encountered, PT is considered malignant. Malignant phyllodes tumors (MPTs) only account for 8% to 20% of PTs. We report a case of MPT with osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma differentiation and review the literature to discuss the differential diagnosis and therapy.Case presentationA 59-year-old Chinese woman come to our hospital because of a palpable mass she had had for 1 months in the left breast. Preoperative core needle biopsy (CNB) was performed on the left breast mass on January 11, 2023. Pathological diagnosis was malignant tumor, the specific type was not clear. Mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy of the left breast was performed. No metastasis was found in 3 sentinel lymph nodes identified by carbon nanoparticles and methylene blue double staining. Heterologous osteosarcoma and chondrosarcomatous differentiation of phyllodes tumor were observed. Immunohistochemistry: spindle tumor cells ER(-), PR(-), HER-2(-), CK-pan(-), CK7(-), CK8(-), SOX10(-), S100(-), and MDM2(-), CK5/6(-), P63(-), P40(-) were all negative. CD34:(+), SATB2(+), P53(90% strong), CD68 (+), Ki-67(LI: about 60%). No ductal carcinoma in situ was found in the breast. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) indicated USP6 was negatively expressed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue sections.ConclusionMPTs are rare, and heterologous differentiation in MPTs is exceedingly rare. It could be diagnosed by pathology when metaplastic carcinoma, primary osteosarcoma, or myositis ossificans were excluded. This case could help clinicians to improve the prognosis and treatment of this disease.
The role of P3H family in cancer: implications for prognosis, tumor microenvironment and drug sensitivity
Authors: Wang Ziyun , Wang Hua 
Published: April 2024

IntroductionProlyl 3-hydroxylases (P3H) are crucial enzymes in collagen biosynthesis and are known to be involved in a variety of physiological processes. However, their specific roles in cancer progression, modulation of the tumor microenvironment (TME), and impact on patient prognosis remain areas that require further investigation.MethodsThe investigation involved a comprehensive analysis of expression profiles and clinical data obtained from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases. This included the assessment of genetic variation, gene expression, and the prognostic significance of P3H family genes. P3H scores were calculated using various databases and R-based tools, followed by correlation analyses with the TME, immune cell infiltration, drug sensitivity and immunotherapy.Variations in P3H gene expression patterns were observed across different tumor types and prognoses, suggesting that most genes within the family were risk factors, especially P3H1 and P3H4. The P3H score was associated with immune infiltration and drug resistance. Notably, individuals with elevated expression of P3H2, P3H3, and CRTAP exhibited higher resistance to multiple anti-tumor drugs.ResultsP3H family proteins play diverse roles in cancer progression, significantly impacting patient prognosis and the effectiveness of immunotherapy.ConclusionsThe P3H score, identified as a potential biomarker for evaluating TME, holds promise in guiding precision medicine strategies.