bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A novel pulse-current waveform circuit for low-energy consumption and low-noise transcranial magnetic stimulation
Authors: Tan Xinhua , Guo Ao , Tian Jiasheng , Li Yingwei , Shi Jian 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionTranscranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is widely used for the noninvasive activation of neurons in the human brain. It utilizes a pulsed magnetic field to induce electric pulses that act on the central nervous system, altering the membrane potential of nerve cells in the cerebral cortex to treat certain mental diseases. However, the effectiveness of TMS can be compromised by significant heat generation and the clicking noise produced by the pulse in the TMS coil. This study proposes a novel, non-resonant, high-frequency switching design controlled by high-frequency pulse-width modulation (PWM) voltage excitation to achieve ideal pulse-current waveforms that minimize both clicking noise and heat generation from the TMS coil.MethodFirst, a particle swarm optimization algorithm was used to optimize the pulse-current waveform, minimizing both the resistance loss and clicking noise (vibration energy) generated by the TMS coils. Next, the pulse-current waveform was modeled based on the principles of programmable transcranial magnetic stimulation circuits. The relationships between the parameters of the pulse-current waveform, vibration energy, and ohmic resistance loss in the TMS coil were explored, ensuring the necessary depolarization of the nerve membrane potential. Finally, four insulated-gate bipolar transistors, controlled by a series of PWM pulse sequences, generated the desired pulse-current duration and direction in the H-bridge circuit. The duration and slope of the rising and falling segments of the current waveform were adjusted by the PWM pulse duration.ResultsThe optimized current waveform, represented by three segmented functions, reduces heat loss and noise while inducing a greater change in neural membrane potential compared with those obtained with conventional symmetric waveforms. Spectral analysis further confirmed that the noise spectrum of the optimized current waveform, particularly the peak spectrum, is significantly lower than that of the conventional triangular symmetric waveform.ConclusionThe study provide a method and new ideas for low energy consumption and low-noise transcranial magnetic stimulation by using TMS circuit design techniques as well as waveform optimization.
Association between dietary mineral intake and new onset diabetes/pre-diabetes after chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Li Bingqing , Guo Shan , Zong Wenlu , Chu Yuning , Zhang Qi , Yin Xiaoyan , Mao Tao , Li Xiaoyu 
Published: January 2025

Background and aimsAs the main type of pancreatic diabetes, patients with new diabetes after chronic pancreatitis are often difficult to manage and have poor prognosis. This study aimed to figure out the association between dietary mineral intake and glucose metabolism with chronic pancreatitis.MethodThe study included 114 patients with chronic pancreatitis, who were grouped based on the sequence of onset for chronic pancreatitis and diabetes: normoglycaemia after chronic pancreatitis (NCP), type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and new-onset diabetes or pre-diabetes after chronic pancreatitis (NODCP). The habitual intake of 10 minerals (calcium, chlorine, iodine, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium, and zinc) was assessed using a dietary health questionnaire. The differences in mineral intake between the groups were compared, and the relationship between mineral intake and key glucose metabolism markers, including fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and fasting insulin, was analyzed using regression models.ResultsCompared with normal glycaemic status after chronic pancreatitis, the intake of iron and phosphorus in patients with new diabetes/pre-diabetes after chronic pancreatitis (NODCP) has changed significantly. In the NODCP group, FPG levels were significantly negatively correlated with magnesium intake, while HbA1c levels were significantly negatively correlated with average phosphorus intake. In addition, there is a correlation between fasting insulin and average magnesium intake in the NODCP group. No correlation was found between the intake of other minerals and glucose metabolism in chronic pancreatitis.ConclusionThe intake of minerals in the diet affects the glycaemic status after chronic pancreatitis. It is necessary to further explore the possible causal relationship and mechanism between mineral intake and diabetes after chronic pancreatitis, so as to provide evidence for nutritional intervention of high-risk patients.
Effect of packaging materials and storage temperature on the shelf stability of Awaze paste
Authors: Kefale Biadge , Delele Mulugeta Admasu , Fanta Solomon Workneh , Abate Solomon 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundIt is well known that deterioration is a big concern in the food supply chain. The problem is more serious in handling of traditional foods in developing country such as Ethiopia, due to the limited knowledge about the optimum processing, packaging and storage conditions.ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the effect of packaging material and storage condition on the shelf life of Ethiopian traditional Awaze paste.MethodsSix types of packaging materials were employed: Shekella pot, Gourd (Qelle), high-density polyethylene (plastic bag), plastic bottle, glass bottle and metal can. These packaging materials are traditionally used by household producers and cottage industries in Ethiopia. The paste was stored at two temperatures: room temperature (21 ± 2°C) and refrigeration temperature (4°C).ResultsPhysical changes, color (a) value, pH, acidity, yeast and mold levels, total bacterial count (TBC), and lactic acid bacteria count (LAB) were assessed every 60 days over a period of 300 days. pH value, acidity, yeast and mold, TBC, and LAB count were significantly (p &lt; 0.05) affected by packaging material, storage temperature and storage period. After 300 days of storage, the highest yeast and mold count, 4.06 log CFU/g, was observed in samples stored in plastic bags. The highest total bacterial count (TBC), 4.12 log CFU/g, was found in samples stored in metal cans. The samples stored in glass bottles at refrigeration temperature (4°C) were found to have a color (a*) value difference of 11.5 to 13.85, a yeast and mold count value of 3.2 log cfu/g, and a TBC value of 2.97 log cfu/g, which were acceptable after 300 days of storage as per the international food standards.ConclusionTaking into account all parameters including physical changes (color, mold growth, texture), acidity, yeast and mold, TBC, and LAB count, Awaze paste could be stored in glass bottles at 4°C for up to 300 days.
Efficacy and safety of Jianpi Qinghua granules for non-erosive reflux disease with spleen deficiency and damp-heat syndrome: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Zhang Tai , Bai Guang , Wang Wei , Liu Lin , Zhou Zhenghua , Ji Haijie , Zhang Beihua , Tang Xudong 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundNon-erosive reflux disease (NERD), the most frequent phenotype of gastroesophageal reflux disease, presents without visible esophageal mucosal damage but significantly impacts patients' quality of life. Current treatments like proton pump inhibitors show limited efficacy for many NERD patients, necessitating alternative approaches. Jianpi Qinghua (JQ) granules, a traditional Chinese medicine, have shown promise in treating NERD by targeting symptoms of spleen deficiency and damp-heat syndrome.PurposeThis study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of JQ granules in treating patients with NERD characterized by spleen deficiency and damp-heat syndrome.Study designA multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with a total of 78 NERD patients randomly assigned to receive either JQ granules or placebo for 4 weeks, followed by a 4-week follow-up period.MethodsSeventy-eight NERD patients with spleen deficiency and damp-heat syndrome were recruited and randomly assigned to receive either JQ granules (n = 39) or placebo (n = 39). The trial included a 1-week lead-in, followed by a 4-week double-blind treatment, and a 4-week follow-up. Primary endpoints were the improvement rates of reflux and heartburn symptoms and VAS score changes. Secondary endpoints included atypical symptom scores, total TCM syndrome scores, GERD Health-Related Quality-of-Life (HRQL), and self-rated depression and anxiety scales. Safety assessments involved routine blood, urine, and liver and kidney function tests.ResultsAfter 4 weeks, the improvement rate for reflux or heartburn symptoms was 79.49% in the JQ group vs. 58.97% in the placebo group (P &lt; 0.05). VAS scores showed significant reductions in both groups but without notable inter-group differences. Total TCM syndrome scores significantly decreased in both groups, with the JQ group showing greater improvement trends. The JQ group had higher rates of effective TCM syndrome improvement and better GERD-HRQL scores. Both groups saw significant reductions in self-rated depression and anxiety scores, with trends favoring JQ granules. Safety assessments were comparable between groups.ConclusionJQ granules significantly outperform placebo in treating NERD symptoms and display long-term effectiveness. They effectively address spleen deficiency and damp-heat syndrome, improving patients' social functioning, and have a favorable safety profile.Clinical trial registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04324138?term=NCT04324138&amp;rank=1, identifier: NCT04324138.
Determinants of school-going adolescent girls’ health and nutritional status in district Malir, Karachi: a baseline cross-sectional study
Authors: Zafar Saira , Shaikh Babar Tasneem , Malik Zoha Imtiaz , Ahmad Abdul Momin Rizwan 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionAdolescence is a phase of life marked by rapid growth. Adequate nutrition is essential during this developmental stage, leading to significant physical performance, improved cognitive ability, and productivity. Improving adolescent girls’ nutrition is crucial for breaking the intergenerational cycle of malnutrition, but research in Pakistan has largely focused on children under five and pregnant women, often neglecting this vulnerable group.ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine the contextual and sociodemographic factors contributing toward undernutrition to improve the health and nutritional status of adolescent girls.MethodsA school based cross sectional study was conducted as the baseline survey for a mixed methods study leading to a pilot cluster randomized controlled trial. n = 84 girls (10–14 years) from two public schools were selected by simple random sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire including socio demographic profile, anthropometric measurements, dietary patterns, preferences, safe water and hygiene practices, access to health care facilities, and understanding of malnutrition-related symptoms. The data collected were analyzed through SPSS version 27.0. The chi-square test was used to determine the association between the two BMI categories; underweight and normal weight, and various socio-demographic variables.ResultsAmong the total of 84 adolescent girls, overall mean height was 143.9 ± 8.1 cm and mean weight was 34.4 ± 6.9 kg, while mean BMI was 16.4 ± 2.2 kg/m2. 86.9% of girls were underweight, whereas 13.1% had a normal BMI. The z-scores for both height-for-age and BMI-for-age were in negative values, i.e., −1.62 ± 0.89 and −1.18 ± 1.05, respectively.ConclusionFindings of this study demonstrated that the high burden of underweight among school-going adolescent girls needs targeted approaches like nutrition education interventions to enhance awareness about healthy dietary behaviors, food preferences, and ensuring access to safe, sufficient, and healthy diet.RecommendationA multipronged approach is required to improve health and nutritional status of adolescent girls by involving individuals, families, education sector, health and other relevant sectors. Larger scale studies are still required for better understanding of the issue and to guide in designing targeted programs to address specific needs of this particular age group.
Global research trends in the application of artificial intelligence in oncology care: a bibliometric study
Authors: Xu Mianmian , Chen Yafang , Wu Tianen , Chen Yuyan , Zhuang Wanling , Huang Yinhui , Chen Chuanzhen 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveTo use bibliometric methods to analyze the prospects and development trends of artificial intelligence(AI) in oncology nursing from 1994 to 2024, providing guidance and reference for oncology nursing professionals and researchers.MethodsThe core set of the Web of Science database was searched for articles from 1994 to 2024. The R package “Bibliometrix” was used to analyze the main bibliometric features, creating a three-domain chart to display relationships among institutions, countries, and keywords. VOSviewer facilitated co-authorship analysis and its visualization was used for co- occurrence analysis. CiteSpace calculated citation bursts and keyword occurrences.ResultsA total of 517 articles were retrieved, representing 80 countries/regions. The United States had the highest number of publications, with 188 articles (36.4%), followed by China with 79 articles (15.3%). The top 10 institutions in terms of publication output were all U.S.-based universities or cancer research institutes, with Harvard University ranking first. Prominent research teams, such as those led by Repici, Aerts, and Almangush, have made significant contributions to studies on AI in tumor risk factor identification and symptom management. In recent years, the keywords with the highest burst strength were “model” and “human papillomavirus.” The most studied tumor type was breast cancer. While Cancers published the highest number of articles, journals such as CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians and PLOS ONE had higher impact and citation rates.ConclusionBy analyzing the volume of AI literature in oncology nursing, combined with the statistical analysis of institutions, core authors, journals, and keywords, the research hotspots and trends in the application of AI in oncology nursing over the past 30 years are revealed. AI in oncology nursing is entering a stage of rapid development, providing valuable reference for scholars and professionals in the field.
Medullary thyroid cancer in MEN2 pediatric/adolescent carriers of RET mutation: genotype/phenotype correlation and outcome in a retrospective series of 23 patients
Authors: Di Benedetto Guenda , Barca Ignazio , De Gregorio Laura , Scollo Claudia , Gianì Fiorenza , Martorana Federica , Russo Marco , Frasca Francesco , Pellegriti Gabriella , Sapuppo Giulia 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundMultiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 syndrome (MEN2) is a hereditary disease resulting from mutations of the rearranged during transfection (RET) protooncogene subclassified into MEN2A [medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), pheochromocytoma, and primary hyperparathyroidism] and MEN2B (MTC, pheochromocytoma, Marfanoid habitus, mucous neuromas, and intestinal ganglioneuromatosis). Prophylactic thyroidectomy is recommended in RET-mutated patients. The age at which it should be performed depends on the type and aggressiveness of the mutation.Aim of the studyThis study aimed to evaluate the genotype/phenotype correlation and outcome in pediatric/adolescent carriers of MEN2 RET mutation.Patients and methodsIn a retrospective series of 23 carriers of RET MEN2 mutation who were ≤19 years old at diagnosis and had undergone total thyroidectomy ± lymphadenectomy, the following were analyzed: 1) specific RET mutation, 2) clinical and histopathological characteristics, 3) genotype/phenotype correlation, and 4) outcome at last follow-up.ResultsIn our series, the female gender was more prevalent (F/M ratio 2.8/1), and the median age was 14.9 years [interquartile range (IQR) 12.6–17.2]. RET mutations were at very high risk in 4.3% of patients (M918T), high risk in 43.5% (C634), and moderate risk in 52.2% (47.8% C618 and 4.3% C620). All patients underwent surgery: at histology, MTC was found in 19/23 (82.6%) patients, C-cell hyperplasia in 2/23 (8.7%), and benign histology in 2/23 (8.7%). Ten patients (52.6%) had a disease event during the follow-up: 2/19 (10.5%) showed biochemical disease, 6/19 (31.6%) lymph node recurrences, and 2/19 (10.5%) distant metastases (50% liver, 50% bone). At the last follow-up, nine MTCs were not cured. One patient died after 9 years of follow-up at 21 years old (M918T RET+).ConclusionsFrom these data, it is clear to see the importance of genetic counseling and RET screening in all first-degree relatives of patients with proven MEN2. The goal should be to subject patients to surgery for prophylactic and not curative purposes, i.e., before the onset of MTC, given the high risk of persistent or recurrent disease also in pediatric/adolescent patients.
A case report of comprehensive treatment for primary intraspinal carcinosarcoma
Authors: Yan Chang , Zhang Chao-Jun , Wei Jun-bao , Liang Hui-wen , Qu Song 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundCarcinosarcoma is a rare and highly aggressive biphasic malignant tumor. To date, no cases of primary intraspinal carcinosarcoma have been reported.Case presentationThis study reports a case of a 36-year-old female with primary intra dural extramedullary carcinosarcoma. The patient underwent surgery at initial diagnosis, followed by two courses of radiotherapy due to residual tumor, as part of a comprehensive antitumor treatment. Despite good tumor control, she ultimately died of respiratory failure.DiscussionThis is the first reported case of primary intra dural extramedullary carcinosarcoma, detailing its imaging characteristics, pathological morphology, and treatment process. The tumor was responsive to radiotherapy. The rapid progression of intraspinal carcinosarcoma suggests it may be underdiagnosed or underreported, highlighting the need for more cases for clinical evaluation and treatment strategies.
Detection of cervical precancerous lesions and cancer by small-scale RT-qPCR analysis of oppositely deregulated mRNAs pairs in cytological smears
Authors: Artyukh Anastasia A. , Ivanov Mikhail K. , Titov Sergei E. , Dzyubenko Victoria V. , Krasilnikov Sergey E. , Shumeikina Anastasia O. , Afanasev Nikita A. , Malek Anastasia V. , Glushkov Sergei A. , Agletdinov Eduard F. 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundCervical screening, aimed at detecting precancerous lesions and preventing cancer, is based on cytology and HPV testing. Both methods have limitations, the main ones being the variable diagnostic sensitivity of cytology and the moderate specificity of HPV testing. Various molecular biomarkers are proposed in recent years to improve cervical cancer management, including a number of mRNAs encoded by human genes involved in carcinogenesis. Many scientific papers have shown that the expression patterns of cellular mRNAs reflect the severity of the lesion, and their analysis in cervical smears may outperform HPV testing in terms of diagnostic specificity. However, such analysis has not yet been implemented in broad clinical practice. Our aim was to devise an assay detecting severe cervical lesions (≥HSIL) via analysis of cellular mRNA expression in cytological smears.MethodsThrough logistic regression analysis of a reverse-transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) dataset generated from analysis of six mRNAs in 167 cervical smears with various cytological diagnoses, we generated a family of linear classifiers based on paired mRNA concentration ratios. Each classifier outputs a dimensionless decision function (DF) value that increases with lesion severity. Additionally, in the same specimens, the HPV genotyping, viral load assessment, diagnosis of cervicovaginal microbiome imbalance and profiling of some relevant mRNAs and miRNAs were performed by qPCR-based methods.ResultsThe best classifiers were obtained with pairs of mRNAs whose expression changes in opposite directions during lesion progression. With this approach based on a five-mRNA combination (CDKN2A, MAL, TMPRSS4, CRNN, and ECM1), we generated a classifier having ROC AUC 0.935, diagnostic sensitivity 89.7%, and specificity 87.6% for ≥HSIL detection. Based on this classifier, a two-tube RT-qPCR based assay was developed and it confirmed the preliminary characteristics on 120 cervical smears from the test sample. DF values weakly correlated with HPV loads and cervicovaginal microbiome imbalance, thus being independent markers of ≥HSIL risk.ConclusionThus, we propose a high-throughput method for detecting ≥HSIL cervical lesions by RT-qPCR analysis of several cellular mRNAs. The method is suitable for the analysis of cervical cytological smears prepared by a routine method. Further clinical validation is necessary to clarify its clinical potential.
Comparative study of robotic-assisted vs. laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer: a single-center experience
Authors: Wang Wenpeng , Liu Jia , Wang Jiefu , Li Li , Kong Dalu , Wang Junfeng 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundColorectal cancer (CRC) surgeries are commonly performed using either robotic-assisted colorectal surgery (RACS) or laparoscopic colorectal surgery (LCS). This study aimed to compare clinical and surgical outcomes between RACS and LCS for CRC patients.MethodsWe included 225 patients from Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute &amp; Hospital (TJMUCH) between January 2021 and June 2024, divided into RACS (n=82) and LCS (n=143) groups. Data on demographics, clinicopathological variables, surgical parameters, and perioperative outcomes were analyzed. Statistical significance was set at p &lt; 0.05.ResultsRACS was associated with longer surgery durations (median: 218.5 vs. 165 minutes) and greater blood loss (median: 100 vs. 50 mL) compared to LCS (p &lt; 0.001 for both). Additionally, the median hospitalization cost was notably higher for RACS at 117,822 RMB compared to 78,174 RMB for LCS (p &lt; 0.0001). RACS was used more frequently for proctectomy (87.80% vs. 72.48%). No significant differences were found in lymph node dissection (LND), postoperative hospital stay, conversion to open surgery, or postoperative complications between the groups (p &gt; 0.05). Anastomotic leakage was the most common complication in both groups (RACS: 3.66%, LCS: 4.20%), with no significant difference in incidence (p = 0.876). To reduce bias due to surgical site, cases of rectal and sigmoid colon cancer were singled out. Hierarchical analysis showed significant differences still remained in surgical duration, blood loss, and surgical site distribution for proctectomy and sigmoid colon resection (p &lt; 0.001). RACS did not show a clear advantage in surgical field exposure or tissue retraction.ConclusionRACS, despite superior visualization, involved longer operative times and more blood loss than LCS. Both techniques had similar clinical outcomes, with LCS offering specific technical advantages.