bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Secular trend of gout incidence in the UK: an age-period-cohort analysis
Authors: Ye Jing , Zhang Yuqing , Zhang Weiya , Doherty Michael , Lu Na , Zeng Chao , Lei Guanghua , Wei Jie , Ding Xiang 
Published: January 2024

ObjectivesThe incidence of gout in the UK appears to have declined since 2013; however, whether such a trend occurred across participants born in different years (ie, birth cohort) is unknown. We aimed to examine the effects of the birth cohort on gout incidence using an age-period-cohort (APC) model.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingNationwide data from the UK primary care database.ParticipantsIndividuals between 30 and 89 years of age were included. We excluded individuals who had gout history when entering the database and individuals with less than 1 year of continuous follow-up between 1 January 1999 and 31 December 2019.Primary and secondary outcome measuresGout was identified using READ codes assigned by general practitioners. The incidence of gout between 1999–2013 and 2011–2019 was analysed with APC model.ResultsThe incidence of gout between 1999 and 2013 increased with birth cohorts. Compared with those born in 1949–1953 (reference), the age-adjusted and period-adjusted rate ratios (RRs) of incident gout increased from 0.39 (95% CI 0.34 to 0.46) in participants born in 1910–1914 to 2.36 (95% CI 2.09 to 2.66) in participants born in 1979–1983 (p for trend <0.001). In contrast, the incidence of gout between 2011 and 2019 decreased with birth cohorts. Compared with those born in 1949–1953 (reference), the age-adjusted and period-adjusted RRs of incident gout declined from 2.75 (95% CI 2.30 to 3.28) in participants born in 1922–1926 to 0.75 (95% CI 0.65 to 0.87) in participants born in 1976–1980 but then increased slightly to 0.95 (95% CI 0.77 to 1.17) in participants born in 1985–1989.ConclusionsThe gout incidence between 1999 and 2013 in the UK increased with the birth cohorts and then decreased between 2011 and 2019 except for those born after 1980. Future monitoring is needed to help identify aetiological factors and guide preventive and treatment strategies for gout.
Perceptions and determinants of oral health care among Iranian pregnant women: a qualitative study
Authors: Abdollahi Monireh , Tehrani Hadi , Mahdizadeh Mehrsadat , Nemati-Karimooy Atefeh , Gholian-aval Mahdi 
Published: January 2024

ObjectivesThis study aimed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the determinants that influence oral healthcare behaviours among Iranian pregnant women.Study designQualitative study.SettingComprehensive health service centres.ParticipantsA sample consisting of all people involved in the process of oral care during pregnancy, 18 pregnant women, 7 midwives/healthcare workers, 3 supervisors of prenatal care services and 3 dentists) were purposefully sampled in terms of demographic characteristics.MethodsThe qualitative content analysis study conducted 31 semistructured individual interviews in 2022, utilising MAXQDA V.10.ResultsThe participants identified 3 main categories and 11 subcategories: individual and physiological determinants (care needs, perceived importance, motivation, oral health literacy and inherent pregnancy limitations), organisational determinants (costs, access to equipment and services, review of service delivery process and professional behaviour) and social-cultural determinants (educational services and support from family and friends).ConclusionsThe results can be used in interventions to improve oral healthcare for pregnant women. This study highlights the importance of addressing individual, organisational and social-cultural determinants to improve oral healthcare during pregnancy.
‘Effects of a home-based bimodal lifestyle intervention in frail patients with end-stage liver disease awaiting orthotopic liver transplantation’: study protocol of a non-randomised clinical trial
Authors: Wijma Allard G , Bongers Bart C , Annema Coby , Dekker Rienk , Blokzijl Hans , van der Palen Job AM , De Meijer Vincent E , Cuperus Frans JC , Klaase Joost M 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionPatients with end-stage liver disease awaiting orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) are generally classified as frail due to disease-related malnutrition and a progressive decline in musculoskeletal and aerobic fitness, which is associated with poor pre-OLT, peri-OLT and post-OLT outcomes. However, frailty in these patients may be reversable with adequate exercise and nutritional interventions.Methods and analysisNon-randomised clinical trial evaluating the effect of a home-based bimodal lifestyle programme in unfit patients with a preoperative oxygen uptake (VO2) at the ventilatory anaerobic threshold ≤13 mL/kg/min and/or VO2at peak exercise ≤18 mL/kg/min listed for OLT at the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG). The programme is patient tailored and comprises high-intensity interval and endurance training, and functional exercises three times per week, combined with nutritional support. Patients will go through two training periods, each lasting 6 weeks.The primary outcome of this study is the impact of the programme on patients’ aerobic fitness after the first study period. Secondary outcomes include aerobic capacity after the second study period, changes in sarcopenia, anthropometry, functional mobility, perceived quality of life and fatigue, incidence of hepatic encephalopathy and microbiome composition. Moreover, number and reasons of intercurrent hospitalisations during the study and postoperative outcomes up to 12 months post OLT will be recorded. Finally, feasibility of the programme will be assessed by monitoring the participation rate and reasons for non-participation, number and severity of adverse events, and dropout rate and reasons for dropout.Ethics and disseminationThis study was approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee of the UMCG (registration number NL83612.042.23, August 2023) and is registered in the Clinicaltrials.gov register (NCT05853484). Good Clinical Practice guidelines and the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki will be applied. Results of this study will be submitted for presentation at (inter)national congresses and publication in peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration numberNCT05853484.
Awareness, experiences and perceptions regarding genetic testing and the return of genetic and genomics results in a hypothetical research context among patients in Uganda: a qualitative study
Authors: Ochieng Joseph , Kwagala Betty , Barugahare John , Möller Marlo , Moodley Keymanthri 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundGenetic testing presents unique ethical challenges for research and clinical practice, particularly in low-resource settings. To address such challenges, context-specific understanding of ethical, legal and social issues is essential. Return of genetics and genomics research (GGR) results remains an unresolved yet topical issue particularly in African settings that lack appropriate regulation and guidelines. Despite the need to understand what is contextually acceptable, there is a paucity of empirical research and literature on what constitutes appropriate practice with respect to GGR.The study assessed patients’ awareness, experiences and perceptions regarding genetic testing and the return of GGR results in a hypothetical context.MethodsThis cross-sectional study employed a qualitative exploratory approach. Respondents were patients attending the medical outpatient unit of Mulago National Hospital. Three deliberative focus group discussions involving 18 respondents were conducted. Data were analysed through thematic analysis.ResultsThree main themes and several subthemes were identified. Most respondents were aware of genetic testing, supportive of GGR and receiving results. However, only a few had undergone genetic testing due to cost constraints. They articulated the need for adequate information and genetic counselling to inform decision-making. Privacy of results was important to respondents while others were willing to share results.ConclusionThere was general awareness and support for GGR and the return of results. Stigmatisation emerged as a barrier to disclosure of results for some. Global health inequity impacts access and affordability of genetic testing and counselling in Africa and should be addressed as a matter of social justice.
HomozygousSMAD6variants in two unrelated patients with craniosynostosis and radioulnar synostosis
Authors: Luyckx Ilse , Walton Isaac Scott , Boeckx Nele , Van Schil Kristof , Pang Chingyiu , De Praeter Mania , Lord Helen , Watson Christopher Mark , Bonthron David T , Van Laer Lut , Wilkie Andrew O M , Loeys Bart 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundSMAD6encodes an intracellular inhibitor of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling pathway. Until now, rare heterozygous loss-of-function variants inSMAD6were demonstrated to increase the risk of disparate clinical disorders including cardiovascular disease, craniosynostosis and radioulnar synostosis. Only two unrelated patients harbouring biallelicSMAD6variants presenting a complex cardiovascular phenotype and facial dysmorphism have been described.CasesHere, we present the first two patients with craniosynostosis harbouring homozygousSMAD6variants. The male probands, both born to healthy consanguineous parents, were diagnosed with metopic synostosis and bilateral or unilateral radioulnar synostosis. Additionally, one proband had global developmental delay. Echocardiographic evaluation did not reveal cardiac or outflow tract abnormalities.Molecular analysesThe novel missense (c.[584T>G];[584T>G], p.[(Val195Gly)];[(Val195Gly)]) and missense/splice-site variant (c.[817G>A];[817G>A], r.[(817g>a,817delins[a;817+2_817+228])];[(817g>a,817delins[a;817+2_817+228])], p.[(Glu273Lys,Glu273Serfs*72)];[(Glu273Lys,Glu273Serfs*72)]) both locate in the functional MH1 domain of the protein and have not been reported in gnomAD database. Functional analyses of the variants showed reduced inhibition of BMP signalling or abnormal splicing, respectively, consistent with a hypomorphic mechanism of action.ConclusionOur data expand the spectrum of variants and phenotypic spectrum associated with homozygous variants ofSMAD6to include craniosynostosis.
Pulmonary artery diameter ratio as a prognostic indicator of congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Miyake Yuichiro , Koga Hiroyuki , Nojiri Shuko , Yamada Shunsuke , Ochi Takanori , Miyano Go , Lane Geoffrey J , Yamataka Atsuyuki , Okazaki Tadaharu 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundFollowing on from an earlier study published in 2008 about left pulmonary artery (LPA) flow measured on serial echocardiography being strongly prognostic in left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and the ratio of LPA to right pulmonary artery (RPA) diameters being a simple and reliable indicator for commencing nitric oxide (NO) therapy, the ratio of LPA:RPA diameters (PA ratio or PAR) was hypothesized to possibly reflect cardiopulmonary stresses accompanying CDH better.MethodsSubjects with isolated left-sided CDH treated between 2007 and 2020 at a single pediatric surgical center were recruited and classified according to survival. Data obtained retrospectively for subject demographics, clinical course, LPA/RPA diameters, and PAR were compared between survivors and non-survivors. The value of PAR for optimizing the prognostic value of PA diameter data in CDH were analyzed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.ResultsOf 65 subjects, there were 54 survivors (82.3%) and 11 non-survivors (17.7%); 7 of 11 non-survivors died before surgical repair could be performed. Mean PAR for survivors (0.851±0.152) was significantly higher than for non-survivors (0.672±0.108) (p=0.0003). Mean PAR for non-survivors was not affected by surgical repair. Characteristics of survivors were: LPA ≥2 mm (n=52 of 54; mean PAR=0.866±0.146) and RPA ≥3 mm (n=46 of 54; mean PAR=0.857±0.152). Non-survivors with similar LPA and RPA diameters to survivors had significantly lower mean PAR. ROC curve cut-off for PAR was 0.762. Subjects with high PAR (≥0.762) required high-frequency oscillatory ventilation/NO less than subjects with low PAR (<0.762) (p=0.0244 andp=0.0485, respectively) and subjects with high PAR stabilized significantly earlier than subjects with low PAR (1.71±0.68 days vs 3.20±0.87 days) (p<0.0001).ConclusionsPAR would appear to be strongly correlated with clinical outcome in CDH and be useful for planning management of cardiopulmonary instability in CDH.
Generalized linearly varying deceleration parameter solutions of higher dimensional universe in f(R,T) theory
Authors: Çalar Halife 
Published: January 2024

In this paper, generalized Friedmann–Robertson–Walker universe for Strange Quark Matter (SQM) and Normal Matter (NM) coupled with Domain Wall (DW) in form perfect fluid have been investigated in [Formula: see text] modified theory. [Formula: see text] function has been assumed as [Formula: see text] and Modified Field Equations (MEFEs) have been attained. The MEFEs of the constructed model do not allow solutions of open and closed FRW universe. Obtained modified field equations of higher dimensional flat FRW universe have been solved by using Linearly Varying Deceleration Parameter (LVDP) suggested by Akarsu and Dereli [Int. J. Theor. Phys. 51, 612 (2012)]. Pressure and energy density of the matter distributions for the Linearly Expansion Model (LEM) and Constant Expansion Model (CEM) have been attained as decreasing values by the cosmic time t and constant [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] gravity. But for the Exponential Expansion Model (XEM), these quantities have been obtained as time-independent. It is found out that the domain wall behaves like invisible matter when [Formula: see text] due to negative domain wall tension ([Formula: see text]) for SQM with DW of LEM. Strange quark matters for LDW and CDW models behave like cold dark matter when [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. One can say that SQM with DW for LEM and CEM may cause the expansion of the universe in these special situations. Also, solutions of XEM have shown that domain wall matter behaves like stiff matter when [Formula: see text]. All solutions of the constructed model in [Formula: see text] theory have been reduced to General Relativity (GR) theory solutions by assuming [Formula: see text]. Finally, all solutions obtained have been discussed in detail.
Interdisciplinary Team - How to Make It Work?
Authors: Tse Astor , Bik Hui Kam 
Published: January 2024

The philosophy of interdisciplinary teams in infertility centers is a fundamental aspect of the reproductive medicine Centre’s approach to patient care. It aims to delve into the core principles and beliefs that underpin the philosophy of interdisciplinary teams in Union Hospital’s infertility center, shedding light on the critical role they play in optimizing treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction. The art of interdisciplinary teams’ centers on the recognition that infertility is a complex and multi-faceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach involving professionals from diverse disciplines. At our Centre, the foundation of this philosophy lies in the belief that by combining the expertise and perspectives of specialists in reproductive endocrinology, embryology, andrology, genetics, psychology, and nursing, patients can receive the highest standard of holistic care. The primary goal of the interdisciplinary team is to provide individualized care that is tailored to each patient’s unique needs and circumstances. This involves a synergistic collaboration among team members to ensure a thorough evaluation of the patient’s reproductive health, addressing not only the physical aspects but also the emotional and psychological aspects of their infertility journey. By integrating a range of perspectives, the team aims to provide comprehensive, evidence-based assessments and treatment plans. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of continuous communication and coordination among team members. Regular team meetings and case discussions allow for the exchange of ideas, insights, and knowledge, ultimately leading to more informed decision making and improved treatment outcomes. The interdisciplinary team ethos also fosters a supportive and compassionate environment, where patients feel heard, valued, and understood throughout their treatment journey. Interdisciplinary team infertility centre also embraces the utilization of cutting-edge technologies and diagnostic tools. By integrating advancements in reproductive medicine, such as genetic testing and personalized treatment protocols, the team can offer patients the most effective and innovative options available. In conclusion, the philosophy of interdisciplinary teams in infertility centers is rooted in the belief that by bringing together professionals from diverse disciplines, patients can receive tailored, comprehensive care that addresses the entirety of their infertility journey. It emphasizes collaboration, communication, and the utilization of advanced technologies, ultimately leading to enhanced treatment outcomes, patient satisfaction, and overall reproductive well-being.
Select the Right Biopsy Needle for You and Your Embryos
Authors: Malhotra Keshav 
Published: January 2024

Biopsy pipettes come in multiple versions, and precision, choice and control are essential. Pipettes are specially designed and polished to minimize damage and protect cell membranes during PGT procedures. Characteristics of some pipettes are • Internal diameter range: from 15 μm to 35 μm • 15 μm for polar body biopsy • 25 μm for trophectoderm biopsy • 30 to 35 μm for blastomere biopsy The pipettes should be manufactured with quality assured materials that are MEA and endotoxin (LAL) tested. All stages of production should be controlled, from the raw materials to the final product. Every single pipette should be checked for dimensions to minimise LOT-to-LOT variation. Some pipettes are made of borosilicate glass that helps prevent the risk of oil clogging the inner surface. All pipettes should have heat polished bases to ensure longevity of seals in your pipette holder. Choosing the exact micropipette tool best suited to your needs ensures a successful outcome.
Sample Loading - The Critical Step of Biopsy
Authors: Chi Ling 
Published: January 2024

Failed or poor sample loading following trophectoderm cells sampling can ruin all efforts made before by causing DNA amplification failure, false positive or false negative genetic testing results, and false mosaic reports. In this lecture, all steps involved in the sample loading procedure will be addressed and discussed in detail, including solutions needed, identification, PCR tube setup, washing, and loading.
Chronic Infection in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Kimura Fuminori 
Published: January 2024

In the present study, the effects of chronic endometritis (CE) on implantation and pregnancy outcomes, the effects of CE on endometrial function, and the effects of progesterone as a treatment for CE were examined. It was found that the pregnancy rate and live birth rate were significantly lower in CE patients in a prospective study. When patients were diagnosed with CE, not only were the pregnancy rate and live birth rate significantly lower, but the miscarriage rate was higher in a retrospective study. Next, the presence of chronic deciduitis (CD) in the miscarriage specimen was determined in patients diagnosed with or without CE before pregnancy. CD was determined when the presence of clusters of plasma cells or five or more plasma cells in the decidua. CD was found in more than half of CE, but not found in Non-CE before pregnancy. In in vitro study, we revealed the secretions of TNF[Formula: see text], IL1[Formula: see text], and IL6 per cell were significantly higher in CE. The rate of Th1 was greater and it of Th2 was significantly lower in CE, and those of Tregs and Th17 were not different. Both PRL and IGFBP1, decidualized markers, showed significant decreases in secretion with CE, and conversely, the number of cells was significantly higher in the CE group. Based on the results of bench studies, we hypothesized that an altered administration route and increased dosage of progestogen may improve clinical outcomes. The clinical outcomes of patients who underwent single frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer were examined for each hormone replacement therapy. It was found that using a progesterone vaginal suppository in combination with an oral progestin for hormone replacement improved the live birth rate, but not the miscarriage rate in CE patients when compared with using an oral progestin alone.
Approaches to Help Older Women in ART
Authors: Morimoto Yoshiharu 
Published: January 2024

Ancient Chinese emperors sent messengers to the whole country and explored an elixir of life. Determent of aging has been an ultimate hope for humans for a long period. In the modern era, aging become a hot topic to be solved according to longevity. Equality of both sexes in society contributed to the late marriage and start of making children. There happen adverse effects to being conceived in the aged ovaries. The quality and quantity become impaired by the ovarian aging process. In the artificial reproductive treatment, the obtained number of oocytes in ovarian hyperstimulation diminishes in aged women. The aging impairs quality both in the nucleus and cytoplasm. Chromosomal and genetic abnormalities increase lower implantation and higher abortion. In aged women, PGT-A may be effective to effective treatment. On the other hand, aging affects organelles in the cytoplasm of oocytes by protein metabolic dysregulations. Especially it induces mitochondria dysfunction. Mitochondria are called a “powerhouse” and have an essential role in oogenesis and embryogenesis. There exist 200,000-40,000 mitochondria DNA copies in the mature oocytes. Mitochondria dysfunction causes maturation arrest of oocytes, fertilization failure, late cleavage, and fragmented embryos. We have two strategies to solve this problem by enhancement of mitochondrial function. One is the holistic approach. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) or free radicals impair mitochondrial function. Also, mitochondria themselves are known to produce ROS. We measure Diacron-Reactive Oxygen Metabolites (d-Rom) and biological antioxidant potential (BAP) that are predictors of systemic ROS level and antioxidant competence, respectively. Another method is a cell-engineering approach. We have conducted autologous mitochondria transfer into mature oocytes. The quality of the oocytes and embryos were dramatically improved by this method, and we obtained 13 healthy children.
Environmental Exposures: Impact on Male Fertility
Authors: Hart Roger 
Published: January 2024

It is recognised that male health has a significant impact on male reproductive capacity. These health-related associations may begin before birth. For instance, a man’s sperm count is negatively impacted if his mother smoked during pregnancy, and health trajectories through childhood and adolescence into adulthood may influence male reproductive capacity in later life. Further, other factors such as the age of man at the time of conception may influence the health of their offspring. Of further relevance is the fact that studies have shown a relationship between adult reproductive function and longer-term health outcomes. For instance, adverse associations have been demonstrated between most semen parameters, and other markers of testicular function, with the presence of metabolic syndrome. It has further been shown that there exist an association between erectile dysfunction and future adverse cardiovascular events.