bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Unraveling the impact of laser refractive surgery on corneal ectasia: an in silico study
Authors: Fantaci Benedetta , Rodriguez Matas José Félix , Squartecchia Vittoria , Vavassori Lucia , Calvo Begoña 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionLaser refractive surgeries are a safe option for low-to-moderate refractive corrections, providing excellent visual outcomes. Over the years, various procedures have been introduced into clinical practice, but the most performed today remain Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK), Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK), and Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE). Although laser refractive treatments are considered safe, clinicians have focused on the risk of post-surgical ectasia, a rare but serious complication. Ectasia is characterized by progressive corneal thinning and steepening, leading to vision distortion, irregular astigmatism, and in some cases, a reduction of visual acuity. It is still debated whether laser refractive surgeries can cause ectasia as an iatrogenic condition or merely accelerate the progression of an underlying corneal pathology, not detected during pre-surgical screening. The proposed work investigates the relationship among three laser refractive surgeries (PRK, LASIK and SMILE), currently performed in clinical practice, and ectasia onset and progression by means of an in silico analysis.MethodsAn average 3D finite-element corneal model is developed and a pathological area, characterized by reduced stiffness of varying severity grades, is defined to analyze its influence on ectasia development and progression in the pre-surgical state. Three laser treatments (PRK, LASIK and SMILE) are simulated on healthy and pathological models. Pre- and post-surgical conditions are compared to check whether any procedure worsens the pre-surgical pathological state. The optomechanical effect of each procedure on the cornea is analyzed at both healthy and pathological conditions and compared to establish which refractive procedure mostly affects corneal structure.Results and discussionWhile the three refractive procedures showed different behaviors in terms of mechanical changes affecting the cornea, from an optical perspective, as the pathology severity worsened, none of the surgeries caused a worsening in the cone’s severity with respect to pre-surgical pathological conditions. This result suggests that surgeries may have a limited role in causing post-surgical ectasia, as it seems more plausible that they accelerate the progression of an underlying pathological condition. Among the three procedures, PRK was found to be the least invasive treatment from a mechanical perspective, while SMILE showed the greatest impact on the posterior surface, suggesting a potential long-term risk for ectasia progression.
Effects of different fermentation temperatures on microbiomes of cigar tobacco leaves
Authors: Jia Yun , Guo Sida , Hu Wanrong , Zhang Qianying , Wang Yue , Zhang Zhengcheng , Chai Zhishun , Li Dongliang 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionMicrobiomes of cigar tobacco leaves play a pivotal role during the fermentation, and fermentation temperature is a key factor in shaping the structure and function of the microbial community. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different temperatures (30°C, 35°C, 40°C, 45°C, and 50°C) on the microbiomes of cigar tobacco leaves, providing insights into the complex interactions among temperature, microbes, and physicochemical metabolites.MethodsFirstly, the physicochemical metabolites of cigar tobacco leaves under various fermentation temperatures were detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Subsequently, the impacts of different temperatures on microbial biomass and community structure were revealed by quantitative real-time PCR and amplicon sequencing, and the biomarkers at different fermentation temperatures were identified by LEfSe analysis. Finally, the functional potential of microbes was predicted by correlation analysis.ResultsThe bacterial biomass increased initially and peaked at 8.4 × 109 copies/g at 35°C, then decreased as the temperature rose. The fungal biomass exhibited a downward trend with increasing temperature, reaching a maximum of 3.9 × 106 copies/g at 30°C. When the fermentation temperature exceeded 45°C, the growth of both bacteria and fungi was significantly restricted. Amplicon sequencing results indicated that Staphylococcus and Aspergillus genera dominated the bacterial and fungal communities, respectively. As the temperature increased, the relative abundance of Staphylococcus decreased first and then increased (46.1%–98.5%), while that of Aspergillus increased first and then decreased (34.9%–77.4%). Additionally, correlation analysis suggested that microbial communities shaped by different temperatures were responsible for the differences in physicochemical metabolites of cigar leaves. The biomarkers identified in the low-temperature fermentation group, including Staphylococcus, Stemphylium, Sampaiozyma, and Filobasidium, were likely responsible for the production of flavor metabolites, the accumulation of sugars, and the elevated ratio of potassium ions to chloride ions contents. Biomarkers in medium and high-temperature fermentation groups, such as Aspergillus, Neodymella, Acinetobacter, Pelomonas, Brevundimonas, and Alkalihalobacillus, might contribute to the degradation of nitrogen-containing substances and alkaloids.DiscussionThis study revealed the unique microbial community structure shaped at different temperatures and its potential correlation with physicochemical metabolites. These findings will help to further optimize the fermentation process of cigar tobacco leaves and develop functional microorganisms suitable for different fermentation temperatures.
The role of periodontal treatment on the reduction of hemoglobinA1c, comparing with existing medication therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Umezaki Yojiro , Yamashita Akiko , Nishimura Fusanori , Naito Toru 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundDiabetes mellitus (DM) is linked to complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and cardiovascular disease, impacting patient quality of life and increasing healthcare costs. Periodontal disease, more prevalent in diabetic patients, is associated with worsened glycemic control and systemic inflammation, suggesting a possible bidirectional relationship. While some studies indicate periodontal treatment may improve glycemic control and reduce inflammation, overall evidence is inconsistent. It remains unclear if periodontal therapy reliably enhances diabetes outcomes or if certain patient subgroups benefit more than others.ObjectiveTo systematically review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effects of periodontal therapy on glycemic control (HbA1c) and systemic inflammation (CRP) in type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients.MethodsFollowing PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive PubMed search identified RCTs comparing HbA1c and CRP outcomes in diabetic patients with periodontal therapy versus controls. Inclusion criteria required at least three to six months of follow-up. Meta-analyses using a random effects model were conducted for HbA1c and CRP changes.ResultsEleven studies met inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses showed significant reductions in HbA1c at three months (-0.64; CI95%=-0.96 to -0.32; I2 = 73%) and six months (-0.33; CI95%=-0.65 to -0.01; I2 = 12%). CRP also declined significantly, indicating an improvement in systemic inflammation.ConclusionPeriodontal therapy appears to significantly reduce HbA1c and CRP levels over short-term periods in diabetic patients, suggesting potential as a beneficial adjunct to diabetes management. These findings support incorporating periodontal care into diabetes treatment to reduce systemic inflammation and potentially lower healthcare costs. Future long-term, standardized RCTs are needed to confirm sustained effects and investigate responses in diverse patient populations.
Monte Carlo simulation to optimize polymyxin B dosing regimens for the treatment of Gram-negative bacteremia
Authors: Yu Yingying , He Zheng , Wang Chengcheng 
Published: February 2025

ObjectiveThis study aimed to predict and evaluate the efficacy of various polymyxin B dosing regimens for Gram-negative bacteremia using Monte Carlo simulation, with a specific focus on assessing the efficacy in patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). The goal was to optimize clinical dosing regimens and guide rational polymyxin B use in practice.MethodsA total of 1,939 Gram-negative bacterial strains were analyzed, collected between April 2019 and December 2021 through the China Bloodstream Gram-negative Pathogens Antimicrobial Resistance and Virulence Surveillance Network (CARVIS-NET). Pharmacokinetic parameters of polymyxin B from existing literature were used to conduct a Monte Carlo simulation based on pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) theory. The probability of target attainment (PTA) and cumulative fraction of response (CFR) were evaluated across various dosing regimens.ResultsThe main pathogens of Gram-negative bacteremia were Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii, all of which demonstrated high susceptibility to polymyxin B. For pathogens with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ≤1 mg/L, all regimens achieved PTA &gt;90%. However, when the MIC increased to 2 mg/L, the PTA for the 500,000 IU q12h regimen decreased to 77.53%, and at an MIC of 4 mg/L, none of the dosing regimens achieved a PTA &gt;90%. For P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae with MIC ≤0.5 mg/L, all regimens demonstrated effectiveness. However, at MIC ≥1 mg/L, significant declines in PTA were observed, with the 500,000 IU q12h and 1.25 mg/kg q12h regimens yielding suboptimal outcomes. In CRRT patients, PTA values declined further, particularly against K. pneumoniae, raising concerns about potential treatment failure.ConclusionPolymyxin B demonstrates high efficacy for Gram-negative bacteremia with MIC ≤1 mg/L. However, efficacy diminishes as MIC increases, particularly for P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae, where 500,000 IU q12h and 1.25 mg/kg q12h regimens may result in suboptimal outcomes. For CRRT patients with K. pneumoniae bacteremia, therapeutic drug monitoring and dose adjustments are crucial to mitigate treatment failure risks.
Exploring the exercise intensity equivalent to the anaerobic threshold in patients with acute myocardial infarction based on the 6-minute walk test distance
Authors: Fan Yuxuan , Sun Xiaopeng , Li Guihua , Wang Xiaojing , Luo Qian , Wang Lemin , Shen Yuqin , Fan Zhiqing 
Published: February 2025

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the correlation between aerobic exercise intensity based on the 6 min walk test (6MWT) and the anaerobic threshold (AT)-based equivalent in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The feasibility of using the 6MWT for exercise prescription in primary care settings was also investigated.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on data from AMI patients, including statistics on all values of the cardiopulmonary exercise test and 6MWT parameters.ResultsRegression analysis showed that the regression equation based on 6MWD exercise intensity (EI6MWD) could predict AT-based exercise intensity (EIAT). Moreover, EI6MWD correlated with EIAT in 91.9%–93.0% of patients' EI6MWD, with AMI equivalent to the EIAT model.ConclusionsThe findings suggest that the anaerobic threshold in AMI patients corresponds to 91.9%–93.0% of the distance covered during the 6MWT. Thus, the 6MWT is a feasible tool for developing exercise prescriptions in primary care hospitals.
The comparative impact of central vs. peripheral VA-ECMO cannulation on postoperative graft dysfunction in lung transplantation: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Wu Xiaowen , Miao Shuai , Zhou Yan , Wu Tianjun , Chen Jingyu , Wang Guilong , Zhang Xin 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundLung transplantation (LTx) is the definitive treatment for end-stage pulmonary diseases, with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) used as a common perioperative support. However, it remains unclear if central (cVA-ECMO) or peripheral (pVA-ECMO) cannulation routes yield better outcomes in postoperative prognosis. This study compares the impact of these two cannulation strategies on primary graft dysfunction (PGD) incidence in LTx patients.MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed on 153 LTx patients supported with VA-ECMO at the Wuxi Lung Transplant Center (January 2019–March 2023). Patients were divided into central (n = 31) and peripheral (n = 91) groups. Data included recipient/donor demographics, preoperative status, and follow-up outcomes. The primary outcome was PGD within 72 h after reperfusion, whereas secondary outcomes included in-hospital mortality, 1-year survival, renal support needs, ventilation duration, intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and biochemical markers.ResultsPGD incidence was significantly higher in the peripheral group, with longer ECMO duration, ventilation, and ICU stay. Central VA-ECMO showed advantages in in-hospital mortality and 1-year survival rates.ConclusionCentral VA-ECMO cannulation may reduce postoperative complications and improve survival for LTx recipients. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings and refine perioperative ECMO management.
Intention to use personal health records and associated factors among healthcare providers in southwest Oromia region referral hospitals, Ethiopia: using the modified unified theory of acceptance and use technology 2 model
Authors: Dube Geleta Nenko , Asemahagn Mulusew Andualem , Mulu Yared , Guadie Habtamu Alganeh , Ahmed Mohammedjud Hassen , Walle Agmasie Damtew , Bitacha Getu Kassa , Alameraw Temesgen Ayenew , Meshasha Nega Abebe 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionA well-informed decision needs the collection of accurate and organized data, which is becoming more essential in the healthcare industry due to the increasing integration of various technologies. The literature has revealed that the magnitude of intention to use personal health records among healthcare providers is low. Consequently, this study aimed to assess healthcare providers’ intentions to use personal health records and its factors in Ethiopia.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 781 healthcare providers in referral hospitals in the Southwest Oromia region, Ethiopia. A simple sampling technique was used to select the study participants among healthcare providers. A pretested self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. The degree of correlation between exogenous and endogenous variables was described and validated using structural equation modeling using AMOS 26.ResultsThe proportion of intention to use personal health records was 57.6%, 95% CI (53.9–61.2). Factors positively associated with intention to use personal health records were performance expectancy (β = 0.325, P &lt; 0.01), effort expectancy (β = 0.289, P &lt; 0.01), social influence (β = 0.216, P &lt; 0.01), and facilitating condition (β = 0.242, P &lt; 0.01). Age (β = 0.269, P = 0.040, β = 0.326, P &lt; 0.001) positively moderated the relationship between performance expectancy, facilitating conditions to intention to use personal health records.ConclusionsIn general, healthcare providers’ intention to use personal health records were promising. Healthcare providers’ intentions to use personal health records were significantly influenced by performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions. Hence, implementers need to give priority to enhancing the provision of a better system, the knowledge and skills of healthcare providers, and awareness creation among staff by providing continuous training.
Improving sense of belonging in biomedical engineering students through student-faculty lunches
Authors: Chan Tiffany Marie , Tamura Angelika Aldea , Wang Xianglong 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionFull undergraduate experience in biomedical engineering should feature cordial interactions between students and faculty as well as a good sense of belonging. However, both factors remain elusive for many students, rendering their undergraduate experience suboptimal. We designed the organized student-faculty lunches to promote informal student-faculty interactions and the formation of belonging among the student participants.MethodsDuring each lunch, an average of four student participants were paired with one faculty and a student assistant. Lunches were provided at no cost to all participants. Invites for students were based on matching interests during recruitment. A mixed-methods survey, including eight identical Likert-scale questions and up to three free-response questions, was distributed three times: before, immediately after, and 1 month after the lunch. We collected a total of 42 responses for the post-survey and 28 responses for the one-month survey. Four students participated in a 30-minute interview. We used paired t-tests to analyze the Likert-scale questions across the three surveys. We performed regression analysis to quantify the equity in the outcomes of these lunches. We obtained guidelines for conducting these lunches in the future through regression analysis and thematic coding of the surveys and the interviews.ResultsWe found that the student-faculty lunches generated significant positive impact across all eight Likert-scale questions across three domains of belonging: academic, social, and personal space. Improvements in survey questions within the social and personal space domains tend to be longer lasting and more statistically significant. The regression analyses revealed that our interventions resulted in better parity in sense of belonging among students with different years of academic experience, ethnic identities, and gender identities. These analyses also suggest that the most effective lunch is conducted in the middle of the Winter quarter with an Assistant Professor. Coding analyses revealed that the students were highly satisfied with the lunches and the current format of facilitation, while noting the benefits of these lunches in reducing the interaction barriers between students and faculty. We intend to perform more qualitative analyses on aspects of equity and faculty demographics concerning their impact on the outcomes of these lunches.
Integrated geostatistical and stress-field assessment of Miocene-Pleistocene strata for offshore geologic carbon storage in the Central Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Ademilola J. A. , Pashin Jack C. 
Published: February 2025

Opportunities for offshore geologic carbon dioxide (CO2) storage are promising, and assessment of subsurface stress is critical for minimizing the risk of CO2 leakage. This research aims to assess stress and temperature conditions to determine if the area has the ability for secure long-term storage. This objective was achieved by using a suite of geophysical well logs, four-arm caliper logs, geochemical data and data from the BOEM Sands Database for geomechanical stress fields assessment, borehole breakout analysis, and to build 3D simulations of reservoir pressure and fracture pressure in seven protraction areas of the Central Gulf of Mexico. Results of the geomechanical assessment demonstrate that well segments containing a high volume of breakouts will have low CO2 storage potential because pore pressure approaches the minimum horizontal stress. The reservoir temperature gradient in the continental slope reduces substantially beyond a depth of about ∼3,048 m (∼10,000 ft). The changing geothermal gradient appears to stem from a combination of cooling of shallow strata by the thermal mass of the water column above the mudline and conductive and advective heat flow associated with basal heat flow and active hydrocarbon generation and migration at depth. 3D models of stress reveal shelf sands ∼1,600 m (5,249 ft) below the seabed are in a safe CO2 storage window. Results indicate CO2 can be injected safely at a pressure below the minimum horizontal stress to minimize the risk of cross-formational flow, and the high porosity and permeability of sand units in this region can facilitate effective long-term storage of CO2 in mature hydrocarbon reservoirs and saline formations.
Spatiotemporal variation characteristics of extreme temperature events in Hainan Province over the past four decades
Authors: Yun Qiuhao , Zhang Qiang 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionGlobal warming has led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. In Hainan Province, a key tropical agricultural region in China, extreme temperatures significantly affect crop yields, quality, and the sustainability of the agricultural economy. Understanding the temporal and spatial patterns of extreme temperature events in Hainan Province is crucial for formulating effective strategies for mitigating meteorological disasters and safeguarding agricultural productivity.MethodsThis study uses observational data from 21 meteorological stations in Hainan Province from 1980 to 2022. Eight extreme temperature indices were calculated using the RClimDex model. Temporal and spatial characteristics of extreme temperature events were analyzed through linear fitting, Mann-Kendall mutation tests, Morlet wavelet analysis, and principal component analysis.ResultsThe results reveal that extreme temperature events in Hainan Province show an overall increasing trend over time. Spatially, most stations exhibit a similar increasing trend in extreme temperature events. Two indices, Maximum Daily Temperature of the Year (TXx) and Number of Days with Lowest Temperature &gt;20°C (TR20), display upward mutations, particularly between 2000 and 2011. Additionally, cyclical patterns in extreme temperature indices include short (4 years), medium (8–14 years), and long (16–20 years) oscillatory cycles.DiscussionThe study highlights that the primary drivers of temperature variations in Hainan Province are warm temperature indicators, with significant changes in daily maximum temperatures playing a key role. These findings emphasize the need for further investigation into the long-term effects of temperature variations on agricultural production and suggest potential pathways for disaster mitigation and adaptation strategies in the region.
Dinosaurs as skeletons or lifelike replicas - effects on interest in extinct animals
Authors: Kubi Michael , Kleespies Matthias Winfried , Wenzel Volker 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionSince their discovery Dinosaurs have attracted the interest of scientists and the general public alike, and are therefore an attractive way of introducing students to various aspects of the Earth's history and stimulating their interest. There are different types of dinosaur exhibitions, ranging from original excavation sites to theme parks, all with varying levels of scientific accuracy and authenticity.MethodsIn this study we developed and conducted a guided tour of a dinosaur exhibition in a natural history museum, showing dinosaur fossils or their replicas and a special dinosaur exhibition with lifelike animatronic models in a zoo. We investigated the effect on interest in extinct, prehistoric animals in these dinosaur exhibitions.ResultsThe results show that the skeletons in a natural history museum showed a significant increase in interest, while the lifelike animatronics had no effect. An examination of the gender results shows that boys were the main contributors to the increase in interest in extinct animals.DiscussionThe main reason for this difference may be that natural history museums, with their original dinosaur fossils (or detailed replicas, which are legitimate substitutes for original objects), provide a more authentic atmosphere that arouses interest, curiosity and surprise, something that the lifelike dinosaur models could not do. However, these effects were not long-lasting, as demonstrated by follow-up tests.