bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy on vascular parameters and sexual function in patients with arteriogenic erectile dysfunction.
Authors: Rubino Matteo , Ricapito Anna , Finati Marco , Falagario Ugo , Annese Pasquale , Busetto Gian Maria , Cormio Luigi , carrieri Giuseppe , Bettocchi Carlo 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Introduction & Objectives
Low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT) is a recent introduction for the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED) with arterial hypo-inflow. The rationale of this non-invasive technique relies on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) stimulation, stem cells recruitment, Schwann cell activation and the result is neoangiogenesis and nerve regeneration, with consequent more vigorous erection. Aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of Li-ESWT in improving penile dynamic-doppler parameters and sexual function in patients treated for ED.
Materials & Methods
This was a prospective study with a cohort of patients evaluated for ED at our Department between 2019 and 2021. All patients underwent a standardized baseline visit with physical examination, medical history, International Index of Erectile Dysfunction (IIEF-5) administration and Penile dynamic-Doppler echography. Penile dynamic-Doppler was performed to evaluate vascular parameters and the latter two were repeated one month after treatment. Patients with a PSV<30 cm/s were considered eligible for Li-ESWT. Our protocol consisted of eight weekly-sessions with 1500 strokes distributed in 5 different locations along the penis. ANOVA and chi-square tests, Wilcoxon sign-rank test and Loess curve were used to examine differences in continuous and categorical variables, to compare peak systolic velocity difference (PSV-d) before and after treatment and to depict the relationship between PSV kinetics and IIEF score improvement after treatment, respectively.
Results
Li-ESWT was performed in 113/1145 (9,8%) patients with ED associated with PSV<30 cm/s. Preoperative median PSV was 25,5±4,6 cm/sec while IIEF score was 12 (IQR 4-14). After treatment, a significant median PSV-d increase of 5±3.4 cm/sec was recorded (p-value<0.001). 52/113 patients (46%) of patients reached a PSV>30 cm/sec at post-therapeutic penile dynamic Doppler. A significant IIEF score improvement was assessed in patients with a >5 cm/s PSV increase.
Conclusions
Shock wave treatment determined a significant increase in PSV and correlated IIEF-5 improvement in ED patients.
The prevalence of andropause symptoms and its relationship with social well-being among retired male nurses: A preliminary cross-sectional study
Authors: Nemati-Vakilabad Reza , Ajri-Khameslou Mehdi , Jegargoosheh Shiva , Nikjou Roya , Momeni Parisa 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

BackgroundAndropause is a syndrome that occurs due to decreased androgen levels in men. Various aspects of health such as social well-being can affect andropause status during men's retirement. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of andropause symptoms and its relationship with social well-being among retired male nurses.MethodsThis preliminary cross-sectional study was conducted on 284 retired male nurses in Ardabil (northwest of Iran). The participants were selected through the census sampling method. Data were collected using a demographic information form, Male Andropause Symptoms Self-Assessment Questionnaire (MASSQ), and Social Well-Being Scale (SWBS). Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 22).ResultsThe mean scores of MASSQ and SWBS were 57.24 (12.62) and 94.54 (12.77), respectively. There was a significantly inverse relationship between andropause and SWB status (p < 0.05). The subscales of SWB together with age, marital status, and spouse’s menopause could thus predict 53.1% of the variance of andropause probability.ConclusionConsidering the predictive role of SWB and some background variables in andropause symptoms, further studies are required to find the main causes of this syndrome and provide efficient solutions for correcting its related factors.
A synergistic combination of SDS and TX-100 for the catalytic oxidation of an aromatic alcohol in aqueous media
Authors: Rakshit Atanu , Chowdhury Suman , Acharjee Animesh , Mahali Kalachand , Saha Rumpa , Sar Pintu , Saha Bidyut 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

In aqueous medium, oxidation of an aromatic alcohol (4-chlorobenzyl alcohol) was carried out in aqueous mixed micellar media under pseudo first order condition by chromic acid at 30 ºC. The micellar microenvironment constituted by anionic SDS and nonionic TX-100 surfactants showed excellent catalytic performance in course of oxidation, individually. In addition to that the nanomicelle produced by combination of SDS and TX-100 was found to be effective microheterogeneous catalyst for the aforementioned oxidation process. Use of two organic precursors, Phen and Bpy, entitled as promoter, made the reaction faster in presence of single micelle and mixed micelle. The fabrication of mixed micelle was confirmed by UV,1H-NMR and 2D NOESY study. The maximum improvement in reaction kinetic was noticed when SDS/TX-100 surfactants mixture introduced along with Bpy promoter.
Modulating the phenolic content and biological activity of pear pomace powder by granulation and extraction pre-treatment
Authors: Ferreira Joana , Tkacz Karolina , Turkiewicz Igor Piotr , Santos Maria Isabel , Belas Adriana , Lima Ana , Wojdyło Aneta , Sousa Isabel 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the degree of granulation of the pear (Pyrus L.) pomace powder, and the method of pre-treatment on the phenolic content and bioactivities. The dried pear pomace was fractionated into granulations: 1 mm, 710 µm, 180 µm, 75 µm, 53 µm, then treated with methanol extraction and two-step extraction with Soxhlet method. The results obtained confirmed the possibility of modulating the phenolic profile and biological activities through the selection of particle size and extraction methods. Total phenolic compounds was 375.0 to 512.9 mg gallic acid/100 g dw and total flavonoid compounds was 24.7 to 34.6 mg quercetin/100 g dw. Two-step extraction (1 - Soxhlet extraction, 2 - MeOH extraction) provided antioxidant activity of up to 418.8 (FRAP) and 340.0 mg Trolox/100 g dw (DPPH). The lowest granulation of pear pomace powder indicated the highest inhibitory activity of α-amylase, β-glucosidase (as antidiabetic activity), angiotensin-converting enzyme (as antihypertensive activity). Antibacterial activities against Gram (-) bacteria (E. coli) and Gram (+) (S. aureus) were also very significant in the pomace samples, but most noticeably in those extracts from Soxhlet technique. The study not only highlights the potential for pear pomace but also points towards the use of different processing techniques in designing products with enhanced health-promoting potential while supporting waste-free production.
Spatial and temporal characteristics of NDVI on based hydrogeological division in Golmud River watershed of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau，China
Authors: Ye Shuigen , Zhang Chenglong , Chu Hongzhen 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
The hydrogeological conditions of the piedmont diluvium are one of the key controlling factors for the growth of local vegetation. This paper analyzes the spatial-temporal variation of vegetation in the Golmud River watershed by the linear slope method, Sen’s slope method and Hurst index method based on the hydrogeological division using the MODIS data of NDVI from 2000 to 2018 in the Qaidam Basin on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The results show that the vegetation coverage in the study area is closely related to the hydrogeological conditions, and the hydrogeological unit of the watershed determines the zonal distribution of surface vegetation. Fraction Vegetation Coverage (FVC) is larger in the mountains and fine soil overflow division, but less than 0.1 in the piedmont Gobi, the wetland salt lake and the northern diluvium division. From 2000 to 2018, FVC has improved greatly in the mountains and fine soil overflow division. In the past 20 years, the area of high coverage vegetation in the watershed has nearly doubled, while desert area has been continuously reduced by 20%, these changes mainly occurred in the mountains and fine soil overflow division. The vegetation coverage of degradation is scattered along the southern coast of Dabson Lake, around the Huolanguole River, and around Yuzhu peak. The vegetation of consistent improvement in the future is mainly distributed in the mountains and fine soil overflow division. The vegetation of consistent degradation is mainly distributed around the upper reaches of Holangole River, the upper reaches of Jiaga Riqu, around Yuzhu Peak, and the south bank of Dabson Lake. Meteorological factors are the driving force of continuous improvement of vegetation coverage. This study has scientific significance for local ecological environment protection.
Psychometric testing of the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale for Chinese nurses
Authors: Du Xiaoyu , Liu Xiqin , Zhao Yajun , Wang Song 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

BackgroundNurses bear a lot of stressors at work. The 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) is a widely used self-reported scale for measuring the global perception of stress. However, there is a lack of the use of PSS-10 in Chinese nurses. This study aimed to test the psychometric properties of the PSS-10 among Chinese nurses.MethodsA total of 708 Chinese nurses completed the PSS-10, the Big Five Inventory, and the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) tested the factor structure of PSS-10. Cronbach's alpha coefficient and test-retest correlation examined the scale reliability. Pearson correlation and hierarchical regression analyses tested the convergent and concurrent validity of PSS-10.ResultsCFA revealed that a two-factor model fits the structure of PSS-10 in Chinese nurses. The scale demonstrated adequate internal consistency and test-retest reliability, and satisfied convergent validity with relations to Big Five personality traits. Evidence for concurrent validity was found via the observation that the PSS-10 score explained incremental variance in predicting anxiety, depression and stress.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that PSS-10 is a sound measure of perceived stress in Chinese nurses and can be used in future research and practice on stress management and coping among Chinese nurses.
Exploring the association between EEG microstates during resting-state and error-related activity in young children
Authors: Bagdasarov Armen , Roberts Kenneth , Brunet Denis , Michel Christoph M. , Gaffrey Michael S. 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
The error-related negativity (ERN) is a negative deflection in the electroencephalography (EEG) waveform at frontal-central scalp sites that occurs after error commission. The relationship between the ERN and broader patterns of brain activity measured across the entire scalp that support error processing during early childhood is unclear. We examined the relationship between the ERN and EEG microstates – whole-brain patterns of dynamically evolving scalp potential topographies that reflect periods of synchronized neural activity – during both a go/no-go task and resting-state in 90, 4-8-year-old children. The mean amplitude of the ERN was quantified during the − 64 to 108 millisecond (ms) period of time relative to error commission, which was determined by data-driven microstate segmentation of error-related activity. We found that greater magnitude of the ERN associated with greater global explained variance (GEV; i.e., the percentage of total variance in the data explained by a given microstate) of an error-related microstate observed during the same − 64 to 108 ms period (i.e., error-related microstate 3), and to greater parent-report-measured anxiety risk. During resting-state, six data-driven microstates were identified. Both greater magnitude of the ERN and greater GEV values of error-related microstate 3 associated with greater GEV values of resting-state microstate 4, which showed a frontal-central scalp topography. Source localization results revealed overlap between the underlying neural generators of error-related microstate 3 and resting-state microstate 4 and canonical brain networks (e.g., ventral attention) known to support the higher-order cognitive processes involved in error processing. Taken together, our results clarify how individual differences in error-related and intrinsic brain activity are related and enhance our understanding of developing brain network function and organization supporting error processing during early childhood.
Elastic Deep Sparse Self-representation Subspace Clustering Network
Authors: Wang Qiaoping , Chen Xiaoyun , Li Yan , Lin Yanming 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Subspace clustering model based on self-representation learning often use $\ell_1$ , $\ell_2$ or kernel norm to constrain self-representation matrix of the dataset. In theory, $\ell_1$ norm can constrain the independence of subspaces, but which may lead to under-connection because the sparsity of the self-representation matrix. $\ell_2$ and nuclear norm regularization can improve the connectivity between clusters, but which may lead to over-connection of the self-representation matrix. Because a single regularization term may cause subspaces to be over or insufficiently divided, this paper proposes an Elastic Deep Sparse Self-representation Subspace Clustering Network (EDS-SC), which imposes sparse constraints on deep features, and introduces the elastic network regularization mixed $\ell_1$ and $\ell_2$ norm to constraint self-representation matrix. The network can extract deep sparse features and provide a balance between subspace independence and connectivity. Experiments on human faces, objects, and medical imaging datasets prove the effectiveness of EDS-SC network.
The Effectiveness of Herbal Remedies on the Hot Flashes in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Network Meta- analysis Study
Authors: Keshavarzi Fatemeh , Salari Nader , Jambarsang Sara , Tabatabaei Seyyed Mohammad , Zhaleh Mohsen , Shahsavari Soodeh 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Purpose:This study was done to conduct a network meta-analysis (NMA) which offers a comprehensive evaluation of the treatment effects of herbal medicine for flashes of post-menopausal women and identifies the most commonly used herbs.
Methods: According to PRISMA-NMA, a systematic search of Persian and English databases, including SID, Magiran, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and AMED, was carried out without a time limit until March 10, 2022. The careful examination of this study's questions was selected according to PICO criteria to find the appropriate keywords. A meta-analysis of the Bayesian network was carried out using “BUGSnet” (Bayesian inference Using Gibbs Sampling to conduct a Network meta-analysis) package in R software.
Result and conclusion: Our review includes 45 RCTs (n = 3615 patients). The effect estimates and credible intervals produced by the preceding model for severity outcome showed that the difference between placebo and Silybum marianum, Soy, and Valerian treatments are statistically significant at the 95% level. The Silybum marianum and soy medicine were high ranks than the other treatments suggesting that it is the most beneficial treatment for the outcome among the treatments included in the severity hot-flash evidence network. Ranking the value of all these herbal medicines makes opportunities that might help design treatment algorithms to be validated in prospective clinical trials.
Assessing the knowledge and practices of smallholder pig farmers and associated risk factors for swine gastrointestinal disorders in Masindi district, Uganda
Authors: Majalija Samuel , Tumwine Gabriel , Kiguli Juliet , Owori Benard , Isabirye Robert Alex , Waiswa Peter 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background:Piggery production is a main income source for the rural poor in Uganda, where 1.3 million households own about 4.47 million pigs. Nonetheless, health challenges and lack of knowledge by the farmers affect the productivity and profits of the pig enterprises. Thus, this study determined the knowledge and practices among smallholder pig farmers and the associated risk factors for pig gastrointestinal disorders in Masindi district, Uganda.Methods:A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a closed-end questionnaire interview of 170 smallholder pig farmers in the rural district of Masindi, from April to July 2020. The qualitative data was analyzed and presented as frequencies, percentages, and their 95% confidence intervals. Bivariate and multi-variate analysis were used to determine factors associated with GIT disorders.Results:Of the 170 farmers, males and females were equal (50%), mostly as pig owners (91.2%), rural folks (88.8%), who raised other animal species (72.9%) and with 5-10 years (72.4%) of experience. Of these, 67.6% were married, mainly in age ranges of groups 19-50 (90.6%) and 47.6% had attained primary school level. Pig rearing was for income generation (95.5%) and 79.4% reported GIT on their farms, affecting local breeds (57.0%) of all age groups and throughout the year. Similarly, a majority of the farmers identified common clinical signs associated with GIT, transmission routes and adherence to biosecurity practices. However, 62.9% treated the sick pigs, 40.6% sold the sick pigs and only 25.9% consulted a veterinarian.At multivariable logistic regression analysis, being a female farmer (p = 0.018, OR = 3.163, CI: 1.213, 8.244); mixing of different herds of pigs (p=0.003, aOR =4.141, 95%CI (1.317,13.013); feeding pigs on raw tubers (p=0.017, aOR=2.703, 95% CI (1.198,6.099) and scavenging (p <0.001, aOR= 9.605, 95%CI (2.131,43.289) were significantly associated with GIT.Conclusion:Poor husbandry practices especially feeding on raw tubers, scavenging and mixing of different herds of pigs were associated with widespread pig GIT disorders. Involving women in strategies to improve pig GIT health as equal partners is suggested. Farmers are encouraged to adopt confinement and housing of pigs as the minimum good husbandry practices for sustainable pig production.
Imaging of colorectal adenomas with pseudoinvasion and malignant polyps using two-photon excitation microscopy
Authors: Florea Maria-Alexandra , Eftimie Lucian George , Glogojeanu Remus Relu , Hristu Radu , Stanciu George A. , Costache Mariana 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Purpose
Even though the incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer varies widely, it remains one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in the world. Efforts are made to prevent the development of colorectal cancer by detecting precursor lesions during colonoscopy. The diagnosis of endoscopically resected polyps is based on hematoxylin and eosin staining examination. Difficult cases, such as adenomatous polyps with epithelial misplacement could benefit from certain ad-ditional diagnostic methods.
Procedures
The objective of this paper is to highlight stromal changes that appear in malignant polyps and polyps with pseudoinvasion, using two-photon excitation microscopy (TPEM), a technique largely used in the medical field in recent years.
Results
Examination of TPEM images revealed a different distribution and density of collagen fibers at the front of invasion, in malignant polyps, compared to the area of pseudoinvasion.
Conclusions
TPEM could be useful in distinguishing true invasion in malignant polyps from pseudoinvasion, based on a better visualization of the local stromal changes.
A case presenting with thyrotoxicosis, which is thought to be related to radiation-induced thyroiditis
Authors: Boyacı İhsan 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Background: Thyrotoxicosis is characterized by diverse symptoms, various etiological causes, and a number of different treatment options. Rational and appropriate treatment requires an accurate diagnosis. A well-made differential diagnosis and consideration of concomitant medical conditions are essential for an accurate diagnosis. We present a detailed differential diagnosis of an instructive case with thyrotoxicosis onset which might be associated with more than one etiological factor.Case Report: A 45-year-old woman who received chemoradiotherapy for a known laryngeal tumor was admitted with complaints of palpitation, tremor, sweating, and amenorrhea. She had also been using lithium for nearly two years with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. On examination, she was pale, with tremors, and sweaty. Her heartbeat was 124 beats/min. The thyroid was nonpalpable. TSH was suppressed, free T3 and free T4 were high. TSHR-Ab and autoantibodies were not detected. Acute phase reactants were found to be normal. Bilateral thyroid lobes and size of isthmus were normal in thyroid ultrasonography. The technetium uptake level was determined as 0%. In the etiology, it was thought that the case of thyrotoxicosis, which developed based on radiotherapy-induced thyroiditis, developed hypothyroidism over time due to permanent damage to the thyroid follicles. L-thyroxine was started in the hypothyroid phase, euthyroid was provided with 75 µg and she was followed up.Conclusion: For a rational treatment and follow-up, the etiology must be determined precisely. For this, a detailed anamnesis, a comprehensive physical examination, and rational, cost-effective, and good laboratory practices are required. It should be kept in mind that thyrotoxicosis may pass into the hypothyroid phase in the follow-up. The fact that each step contains clinical lessons and that it is an educational and instructive case necessitated presenting it.
Barriers and Facilitators to the Implementation of Family Cancer History Collection Tools in Oncology Clinical Practices
Authors: Allen Caitlin 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Introduction
This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to the implementation of family cancer history (FCH) collection tools in clinical practices and community settings by assessing clinicians’ perceptions of implementing a chatbot interface to collect FCH information and provide personalized results to patients and providers. By identifying design and implementation features that facilitate tool adoption and integration into clinical workflows, this study can inform future FCH tool development and adoption in healthcare settings.
Methods
Quantitative data was collected using implementation science measure surveys to evaluate the acceptability, adoption, appropriateness, feasibility, and sustainability of the chatbot tool for collecting FCH, and semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather qualitative data on respondents' experiences using the tool and recommendations for enhancements.
Results
We completed 19 interviews with providers (n = 9, 47%), clinical staff (n = 5, 26%), administrators (n = 4, 21%) and other staff (n = 1, 5%) affiliated with the NCI Community Oncology Research Program. FCH was systematically collected using a wide range of tools at sites, with information being inserted into the patient’s medical record. Participants found the chatbot tool to be highly acceptable, with the tool aligning with existing workflows, and were open to adopting the tool into their practice.
Conclusions
The varying clinical workflows across clinic sites necessitates that future FCH tool development accommodates customizable implementation strategies. A one-size-fits-all approach to implementation of FCH collection tools in clinical workflows is not feasible and options for implementation should be considered during tool development to enhance the uptake of FCH in clinical practices and community settings.