bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of logistic regression and machine learning methods for predicting depression risks among disabled elderly individuals: results from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study
Authors: Hong Shanshan , Lu Bingqian , Wang Shaobing , Jiang Yan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Given the accelerated aging population in China, the number of disabled elderly individuals is increasing, depression has been a common mental disorder among older adults. This study aims to establish an effective model for predicting depression risks among disabled elderly individuals.
Methods
The data for this study was obtained from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). In this study, disability was defined as a functional impairment in at least one activity of daily living (ADL) or instrumental activity of daily living (IADL). Depressive symptoms were assessed by using the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D10). We employed SPSS 27.0 to select independent risk factor variables associated with depression among disabled elderly individuals. Subsequently, a predictive model for depression in this population was constructed using R 4.3.0. The model's discrimination, calibration, and clinical net benefits were assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration plots, and decision curves.
Results
In this study, a total of 3,107 elderly individuals aged ≥ 60 years with disabilities were included. Poor self-rated health, pain, absence of caregivers, cognitive impairment, and shorter sleep duration were identified as independent risk factors for depression in disabled elderly individuals. The XGBoost model demonstrated better predictive performance in the training set, while the logistic regression model showed better predictive performance in the validation set, with AUC of 0.76 and 0.73, respectively. The calibration curve and Brier score (Brier: 0.20) indicated a good model fit. Moreover, decision curve analysis confirmed the clinical utility of the model.
Conclusions
The predictive model exhibits outstanding predictive efficacy, greatly assisting healthcare professionals and family members in evaluating depression risks among disabled elderly individuals. Consequently, it enables the early identification of elderly individuals at high risks for depression.
Endoscopic management of post-cholecystectomy complications at a Nigerian tertiary health facility
Authors: Alatise Olusegun Isaac , Akinyemi Patrick Ayodeji , Owojuyigbe Olumuyiwa Afolabi , Omisore Adeleye Dorcas , Aderounmu Adewale , Ekinadese Aburime , Asombang Akwi Wasi 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Cholecystectomy and common bile duct exploration for biliary stone disease are common hepatobiliary surgeries performed by general surgeons in Nigeria. These procedures can be complicated by injury to the biliary tree or retained stone, requiring repeat surgical intervention. This study presents the experience of using endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in the management of hepatobiliary surgery complications at the academic referral center, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTHC) Ile-Ife, Nigeria.
Methods
All patients with post-cholecystectomy complications referred to the endoscopy unit at OAUTHC from March 2018 to April 2023 were enrolled. Preoperative imaging included a combination of abdominal ultrasound, CT, MRI, MRCP, and T-tube cholangiogram. All ERCPs were performed under general anesthesia.
Results
Seventy-two ERCPs were performed on 45 patients referred for post-cholecystectomy complications. The most common mode of presentation was ascending cholangitis [16 (35.6%)], followed by persistent biliary fistula [12 (26.7%)]. The overall median duration of symptoms post cholecystectomy was 20 weeks, with a range of 1-162 weeks. The most common post-cholecystectomy complication seen was retained stone post-cholecystectomy [16 (35.6%)]. Other post-cholecystectomy complications included bile leak, bile stricture, bile leak with stricture, and persistent bile leak from T tube in 12 (26.7%), 11 (24.4%), 4 (8.9%), 2 (4.4%) respectively. Ampullary cannulation during ERCP was successful in all patients (45, 100%). Patients with complete biliary stricture 10/12 required hepaticojejunostomy.
Conclusion
Endoscopic management of post-cholecystectomy complications was found to be safe and reduced the number of needless surgeries such patients are exposed to. We recommended prompt referral of such patients for ERCP.
Exploring the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cancer-Related Distress Among Thoracic Oncology Patients at a Rural Cancer Center
Authors: Silverwood Sierra , Peters Douglas , Bernacchi Veronica , Kier Yelana , Hirko Kelly 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Cancer-related distress (CRD) is frequently observed in rural settings and may have been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. We examined pre and post COVID-19 changes in CRD among individuals treated for thoracic cancers at a rural cancer center.
Methods: Patient demographics, clinical information, and CRD measures derived from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network psychosocial distress problem list were abstracted from electronic medical records for thoracic oncology patients treated at a rural Michigan cancer center before (January 1, 2019-January 1, 2020; n=139) and during (January 20, 2020-January 31, 2021; n=84) the COVID-19 pandemic. CRD scores overall and by type (practical, emotional, social, and physical concerns) were calculated by summing the relevant problem list items. We assessed changes in CRD overall and by type using chi-square tests, Fisher’s exact tests, and multivariable logistic regression models.
Results: CRD prevalence increased by 9.1% during vs. before the pandemic (97.6% vs. 88.5%; p=0.02), with largest increases evident for emotional (82.1% vs. 64.0%; p=0.004) and physical (82.1% vs. 67.6%; p=0.02) concerns. CRD scores were slightly higher during vs. before the pandemic but the differences were not significant (all p-values>0.05). Compared to those treated in the year prior, patients treated during the pandemic had higher odds of elevated CRD (OR (95% CI) =1.86 (1.1, 3.2)), and practical concerns (OR (95% CI) =2.19 (1.3, 3.8)).
Conclusions: Findings from this preliminary study suggest an increased prevalence of CRD among rural thoracic oncology patients treated during compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Abnormal expression profile of plasma exosomal microRNAs in exclusive electronic cigarette adult users
Authors: Li Dongmei , Xie Zidian , Shaikh Sadiya Bi , Rahman Irfan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background Exposure to electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) aerosol has been linked to several health concerns, including DNA damage, elevated oxidative stress, the release of inflammatory cytokine, and dysfunctions in epithelial barriers. However, little is known about the effect of exclusive e-cigarette use on expression profiles of exosomal miRNAs, which play critical regulatory roles in many inflammatory responses and disease processes including cancer. We aim to compare the exosomal microRNA expression profile between exclusive e-cigarette users and normal controls without any tobacco product use (non-users). Methods Using plasma samples from 15 exclusive e-cigarette users and 15 non-users in the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Wave 1 study (2013–2014), we examined exosomal microRNAs expression levels through Illumina NextSeq 500/550 sequencing. The differential analyses between exclusive e-cigarette users and non-users were examined using the generalized linear model approach in theDESeq2package in R/Bioconductor after adjusting the significant confounding effect from race. Gene enrichment analyses were conducted on target genes regulated by significant microRNAs in the differential analyses. Further, molecular-based techniques using the micro RNA mimics and inhibitors were applied for the validation of the expressions of the micro RNAsin vitro. Results We identified four microRNAs that have significantly higher expression levels in exclusive e-cigarette users than non-users including hsa-miR-100-5p, hsa-miR-125a-5p, hsa-miR-125b-5p, and hsa-miR-99a-5p. GO enrichment analysis on the target genes regulated by the four microRNAs showed that dysregulation of the four microRNAs in exclusive e-cigarette users involved in multiple cell processes such as protein kinase binding and miRNA metabolic process. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis found the four upregulated miRNAs in exclusive e-cigarette users involved in many cancer pathways such as the non-small cell lung cancer, small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, p53 signaling pathway, Hippo signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, and MAPK signaling pathway. Overexpression of miRNA hsa-miR-125b-5p was shown to promote DNA damage in bronchial epithelia cells. Conclusions Four plasma exosomal microRNAs involved in cancer development had higher expression levels in exclusive e-cigarette users than non-users, which might indicate a potentially elevated risk of cancer among exclusive e-cigarette users.
Predictors of psychotic symptoms in first-episode and drug-naïve major depressive disorder patients with a history of suicide attempts: A large cross-sectional study
Authors: Yang Qian , Wang Qianjin , Feng Dongmei , Xu Huixue , Liu Tieqiao , Zhang Xiangyang 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background: Psychotic symptoms (PS) are common in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD); however, few studies have examined risk factors for PS in first-episode and drug-naïve (FEDN) MDD patients with a history of suicide attempts. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence and risk factors for PS in FEDN MDD patients with a history of suicide attempts, with the aim of providing implications for early intervention.
Methods: A total of 1718 FEDN MDD patients were recruited through a cross-sectional study. The Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) were used to assess patients’ symptoms. In addition, demographic data and clinical indicators were collected.
Results: We found that FEDN MDD patients with a history of suicide attempts were 5.06 times more likely to have PS than those without a history of suicide attempts. HAMD score, HAMA score, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were significant predictors of PS in FEDN MDD patients with a history of suicide attempts. The combined area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.94 distinguished patients with PS from those without PS.
Conclusions: This study shows a high prevalence of PS in FEDN MDD patients with a history of suicide attempts. Anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and TSH levels appear to predict PS in FEDN MDD patients with a history of suicide attempts.
Purification, structural characterization, and immunoregulatory activity of a polysaccharide from mulberry branch
Authors: Xiang Wei , Xu Li , Zheng Li , Zhang Qi-ao , Shi Xiaowen 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In view of the fact that mulberry branch has not been effectively utilized and polysaccharide is one of the main active components in mulberry branch, this study aims to reveal the structure and immunomodulatory activity of its polysaccharide. A type of neutral polysaccharides, named Mulberry Branch Polysaccharide-2 (MBP-2), was separated from mulberry branch using DEAE-52 and Sephadex G-100. As analyzed, they were mainly composed of glucose with a molecular weight of approximately 21.7 kDa. Methylation analysis demonstrated that MBP-2 primary contained a →4)-α-D-Glcp-(1→, α-D-Glcp-(1→ and →4, 6)-α-D-Glcp-(1→ structure, which was validated by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). In addition, cellular experiments indicated that MBP-2 significantly enhanced the production of NO, TNF-α and IL-6 in RAW264.7 cells, unraveling the potential immunoregulatory activity of MBP-2. Further analysis showed that MBP-2 exerted their immunoregulatory activity mainly via binding with TLR4 to activate the downstream TRIF-dependent signaling pathways.
Glycogenic hepatopathy associated with hepatic steatosis in type 1 diabetes Short title: GH associated with MAFLD in T1DM
Authors: Teasdale Stephanie , Dong Xin , Griffin Alison , Clark Paul James , Nisbet Janelle , Morton Adam , Phillips Liza , Sullivan Mitchell Anthony , Galloway Graham 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Purpose:
Glycogenic hepatopathy is associated with significant psychosocial consequences and health costs. Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease and glycogenic hepatopathy are frequently confused as “fatty liver” when seen on ultrasonography. We wished to examine liver fat and glycogen content in groups defined based on metabolic and liver disease phenotypes.
Methods:
This case-control study undertaken in a tertiary hospital used nuclear proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy to examine liver fat and glycogen content in five clinical groups, each containing five participants: 1. type 1 diabetes with glycogenic hepatopathy, 2. satisfactorily controlled type 1 diabetes with no liver disease, 3. poorly controlled type 1 diabetes without liver disease, 4. a control group of body mass index- and age-matched individuals without diabetes or liver disease, and 5. hepatic steatosis.
Results:
Fat content was highest in the hepatic steatosis (median 15.4%, IQR 10.0-19.3) and glycogenic hepatopathy (median 6.5%, IQR 4.5–9.1) groups and compared to both of these groups was lower in the control group (median 1.0%, IQR 0.7–1.1, p 0.002 and 0.022), the T1DM group with satisfactory control (median 0.3%, IQR 0.2–0.6, p < 0.001 and < 0.001), and the T1DM group with poor control without liver disease (median 1.1%, IQR 0.9–1.1, p 0.001 and 0.012).
Conclusions:
The hyperechoic ultrasonographic liver changes seen in type 1 diabetes mellitus are often termed “fatty liver”, but may relate to glycogen accumulation and not fat. In cases diagnosed with glycogenic hepatopathy there may be significant concomitant fat accumulation, compounding the already elevated cardiovascular risk in this cohort.
High Prognostic relevance of toluidine blue stain score in canine cutaneous mast cell tumor
Authors: Srivas Avantika , Prabhu Shyama N. , Gangwar Neeraj Kumar , Singh Ajay Pratap , Singh Renu , Purohit Sanjay , Chaudhary J. K. , Gangwar Kavisha , Bhate Yash , Kumar Avneesh , Singh Vinod Kumar , Choudhury Soumen , Shukla Amit 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The aim of the study was to characterize the canine cutaneous mast cell tumor based on cytomorphology and to assess the significance of cytology, histology and immunohistochemistry in its diagnosis and prognosis. The tumors were cytologically and/or histologically graded as high or low. The tumors were also graded based on the cytoplasmic granularity by toluidine blue staining method and immunostaining pattern shown by cKIT. A comparison of various parameters like breed, age, sex, tumor location size, granulation, cytological/histological grade, cKIT staining pattern and cKIT IS between the dead and live animals was made. Based on histology/cytology, 12 tumors were of high grade and four were of low grade. Median survival time for the high grade tumor was found to be 5 months. Immunocytochemistry revealed intense cytoplasmic diffuse pattern followed by stippled and membraneous patterns. No significant difference was noted for tumor location, size, sex, histological grade, cKIT Immunostaining pattern and IS between the two prognostic groups dead and live. The KIT staining pattern was not much informative for the prognosis of canine cutaneous mast cell tumors in this study. But a significant difference between the two groups was noted for the cytoplasmic granularity demonstrated by toluidine blue stain. The toluidine blue staining score served as better prognostic indicator with poor granulation favouring a worse prognosis. Therefore, toluidine blue staining may be considered a cost effective, easier and rapid method to perform as compared to immunostaining in the prognosis of canine cutaneous mast cell tumour.
Analyzing Dueling Q-Learning for Workload Balancing in Edge Computing with Random Workload Distribution
Authors: Thatha Venkata Nagaraju , K Kalaivani , Reddy V. Surya Narayana , Ramakrishna K V S S , Motupalli Ravikanth 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Edge computing is an emerging computing paradigm that enables data processing to be performed closer to where the data is generated, instead of relying on centralized cloud computing resources. One of the key challenges in edge computing is to efficiently balance the workload across different devices and scenarios, in order to optimize resource utilization and minimize response time. In this study, we investigate the use of dueling Q-learning for workload balancing in edge computing, with a focus on scenarios where the workload is randomly distributed across different devices. We compare the performance of dueling Q-learning with a random distribution approach and analyze the results using visualizations and statistical measures. We present two implementations of dueling Q-learning: a centralized approach and a distributed approach. We show that both approaches are effective in balancing the workload and outperform the random distribution approach in terms of workload distribution, convergence rate, and response time. We also compare the performance of the two dueling Q-learning approaches and show that the distributed approach is more scalable and efficient in large-scale scenarios. Our results demonstrate the potential of dueling Q-learning as a promising approach for workload balancing in edge computing. The study provides insights into the benefits and limitations of the approach and suggests future directions for research in this area.
Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy in patients aged 75 years or older – comparing the risk of complications with their younger counterparts
Authors: Petersson Rasmus D. , Fode Mikkel M. , Niebuhr Malene H. , Rashu Badal S. , Thomsen Frederik F. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background & aim
More elderly patients are diagnosed with kidney tumors where partial nephrectomy is technically possible. We investigated whether patients ≥75 years old had an increased risk of complications following robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) compared to younger patients.
Methods
Retrospective, consecutive study including patients who underwent RAPN betweenApril 2016 – May 2023. Preoperative data, operative data and complications within 90 days were recorded by patient record review. Complications were classified according to Clavien-Dindo (CD).
Results
451 patients underwent RAPN and a postoperative complication was recorded in 131 (29%) patients of which 28 (6%) were CD ≥III. Any postoperative complication was recorded in 24/113 patients (21%) <55 years, 40/127 patients (31%) 55-64 years, 45/151 patients (42%) 65-74 years, and 22/60 patients (37%) ≥75 years. Comparable numbers for a CD ≥III postoperative complication were 2/113 (2%) <55 years, 6/127 (7%) 55-64 years, 12/151 (8%) 65-74 years, and 5/60 (8%) ≥75 years. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, patients ≥75 years had a non-significant increased risk of complications when controlling for preoperative variables (OR 1.82 [95% CI 0.80-4.13]) or perioperative variables (OR 1.98 [95% CI 0.86-4.58]) compared to patients <55 years. Two patients died postoperatively. Both were ≥75 years (2/60, 3%).
Discussion and conclusions
Selected patients ≥75 years can undergo RAPN without a significantly increased risk of postoperative complications. However, a mortality rate of 3% in this age group indicates that these patients are frail when postoperative complications occur.
Role of blockchain-enabled Secure Supply Chain management using IIoT for Anomaly detection in 6G
Authors: Kunwar Fateh Bahadur , Singh Hitendra Singh , Yadav Rakesh Kumar Yadav 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

In order to improve the safety and visibility of supply chain management within the context of 6G networks, this research looks into the complementary use of blockchain and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Securing supply chain procedures is becoming more important due to the changing technology landscape and the upcoming 6G. The inherent weaknesses of old supply chain systems and the necessity of implementing real-time anomaly detection procedures to counter new threats are the driving forces behind this. The goal of this connection is to take advantage of IIoT's data-driven capabilities for real-time monitoring and blockchain's immutability for secure transactions. The construction of an all-encompassing system architecture is required to do this, which includes integrating blockchain technology, implementing IIoT devices, and orchestrating smart contracts to guarantee the safety of supply chain transactions. In order to find out what's wrong with the 6G environment, the study uses an anomaly detection approach that combines data pretreatment, feature extraction, and training of a machine learning model. The outcomes demonstrate how well the suggested approach works to provide consistent and accurate real-time data, which improves anomaly detection in a 6G-enabled supply chain. Industry practitioners seeking resilient supply chain solutions in the era of 6G can benefit from the study's practical insights as well as from the theoretical contributions to the understanding of blockchain and IIoT integration.
Xerostomia: A silent burden for people receiving palliative care – A qualitative descriptive study.
Authors: Dourieu Emir Murphy , Lisiecka Dominika , Evans William , Sheahan Patricia 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
The prevalence of dry mouth in the palliative care population is well documented and increases due to polypharmacy, radiotherapy and systemic conditions. Saliva as a lubricant for the mouth and throat has implications for swallowing, chewing, and speech. The literature about the experience of xerostomia (perceived feeling of dry mouth) in palliative care is scarce. Clinical evidence suggests that xerostomia has a negative impact on people’s comfort, however, no recent studies explored this impact in detail. This new knowledge is paramount to adhere to the principles of palliative care.
Aims
To evaluate the impact of xerostomia on the lives of people receiving palliative care with particular reference to eating and speaking.
Design
A qualitative descriptive study (interview design). Thematic analysis was used for data analysis.
Setting
A single specialist palliative care centre in Ireland.
Results
The majority of participants (35/40) had cancer. Xerostomia was reported to have multiple physical, psychological, and daily life consequences. Participants provided insights into the impact of xerostomia on sleeping, eating, talking, denture wearing, and they described in detail their intra-oral sensations associated with xerostomia. The negative effect of xerostomia on speech was reported as the most significant to participants.
Conclusion
Xerostomia has a profound impact on the daily lives of people receiving palliative care, including physical and psychological consequences. Speaking is often affected, which can impede the person’s ability to communicate. There needs to be increased awareness of the impact of xerostomia and more research is required to understand how best to manage xerostomia in a palliative care setting.