bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of urbanization and lifestyle habits on the intestinal microbiota of adolescents in eastern China
Authors: Zhao Gang , Xie Lu , Wu Yan , Wang Bing , Teng Weilin , Sun Zhou , Kao Qingjun , Liu Wei , Pi Xionge , Ma Haiyan 
Published: June 2023

IntroductionOwing to urbanization, living habits have changed widely, leading to alterations in the intestinal microbiota of urban residents. However, there are few studies on the characteristics of intestinal microbiota of adolescents living in different urbanized areas in China.MethodsA total of 302 fecal samples collected from adolescent students in eastern China were examined. 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing was used to identify the fecal microbiota. These data were combined with questionnaire survey results to investigate the effect of urbanization on the intestinal microbiota of adolescents in eastern China. Moreover, the role of lifestyle habits in this relationship was also evaluated.ResultsThe results revealed significant differences in the structure of the intestinal microbiota among adolescents living in regions with different levels of urbanization. Adolescents living in urban regions had a significantly higher proportion of Bacteroides (p &lt;  0.001, FDR = 0.004), whereas those living in towns and rural regions had higher proportions of Bifidobacterium (p &lt; 0.001, FDR &lt; 0.001) and Prevotella (p  &lt; 0.05, FDR = 0.019). The diversity of the intestinal microbiota was higher in urban residents than in adolescents living in towns and rural regions (p  &lt;  0.05). In addition, the differences in intestinal microbiota across individuals living in cities, towns, and rural regions were related to dietary preferences, flavor preferences, and sleep and exercise durations. Adolescents who ate more meat had more Dorea (LDA = 3.622, p = 0.04), while the abundance of Escherichia–Shigella is higher among adolescents who ate more condiments (LDA = 4.285, p = 0.02). The abundance of Dialister was significantly increased in adolescents with longer sleep durations (LDA = 4.066, p = 0.03). Adolescents who exercised for a long duration had more Faecalibacterium than those who exercised for a shorter duration (LDA = 4.303, p = 0.04).DiscussionOur research has preliminarily demonstrated that there were differences in the composition of Gut microbiome in stool samples of adolescents living in different urbanized areas, and provide a scientific basis for the maintenance of a healthy intentional microbota in adolescences.
Meta-analysis of serological biomarkers at hospital admission for the likelihood of developing delirium during hospitalization
Authors: Bassi Thiago , Rohrs Elizabeth , Nicholas Michelle , Reynolds Steven 
Published: June 2023

ImportanceIdentifying biomarkers that, at hospital admission, predict subsequent delirium will help to focus our clinical efforts on prevention and management.ObjectiveThe study aimed to investigate biomarkers at hospital admission that may be associated with delirium during hospitalization.Data sourcesA librarian at the Fraser Health Authority Health Sciences Library performed searches from 28 June 2021 to 9 July 2021, using the following sources: Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Methodology Register, and the Database of Abstracts of Reviews and Effects.Study selectionThe inclusion criteria were articles in English that investigated the link between serum concentration of biomarkers at hospital admission and delirium during hospitalization. Exclusion criteria were single case reports, case series, comments, editorials, letters to the editor, articles that were not relevant to the review objective, and articles concerning pediatrics. After excluding duplicates, 55 studies were included.Data extraction and synthesisThis meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) protocol. Independent extraction, with the consensus of multiple reviewers, was used to determine the final studies included. The weight and heterogeneity of the manuscripts were calculated using inverse covariance with a random-effects model.Main outcome(s) and measure(s)Differences in mean serum concentration of biomarkers at hospital admission between patients who did and did not develop delirium during hospitalization.ResultsOur search found evidence that patients who developed delirium during hospitalization had, at hospital admission, significantly greater concentrations of certain inflammatory biomarkers and one blood–brain barrier leakage marker than patients who did not develop delirium during hospitalization (differences in the mean: cortisol: 3.36 ng/ml,p&lt; 0.0001; CRP: 41.39 mg/L,p&lt; 0.00001; IL-6: 24.05 pg/ml,p&lt; 0.00001; S100β 0.07 ng/ml,p&lt; 0.00001). These differences were independent of other confounding variables such as the patient's severity of illness. A significantly lower serum concentration, at hospital admission, of acetylcholinesterase (difference in the means −0.86 U/ml,p= 0.004) was also associated with an increased vulnerability to developing delirium during hospitalization.Conclusion and relevanceOur meta-analysis supports the hypothesis that patients with hypothalamic-pituitary axis dysfunction, increased blood–brain barrier permeability, and chronic overload of the cholinergic system, at hospital admission, are more vulnerable to developing delirium during hospitalization.
Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor monotherapy or combined with verteporfin photodynamic therapy for retinal angiomatous proliferation: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Fallico Matteo , Macchi Iacopo , Maugeri Andrea , Favara Giuliana , Barchitta Martina , Magnano San Lio Roberta , Agodi Antonella , Russo Andrea , Longo Antonio , Avitabile Teresio , Castellino Niccolò , Reibaldi Michele , Pignatelli Francesco , Vadalà Maria , Patanè Clara , Nebbioso Marcella , Bonfiglio Vincenza 
Published: June 2023

Purpose: To assess functional and anatomical outcomes of intravitreal anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (anti-VEGF) monotherapy versus combined with verteporfin Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for Retinal Angiomatous Proliferation (RAP).Methods: Studies reporting outcomes of intravitreal anti-VEGF monotherapy and/or in combination with verteporfin PDT in RAP eyes with a follow-up ≥ 12 months were searched. The primary outcome was the mean change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 12 months. Mean change in central macular thickness (CMT) and mean number of injections were considered as secondary outcomes. The mean difference (MD) between pre- and post-treatment values was calculated along with 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI). Meta-regressions were performed to assess the influence of anti-VEGF number of injections on BCVA and CMT outcomes.Results: Thirty-four studies were included. A mean gain of 5.16 letters (95% CI = 3.30–7.01) and 10.38 letters (95% CI = 8.02–12.75) was shown in the anti-VEGF group and combined group, respectively (anti-VEGF group vs. combined group, p &lt; 0.01). A mean CMT reduction of 132.45 µm (95% CI = from −154.99 to −109.90) and 213.93 µm (95% CI = from −280.04 to −147.83) was shown in the anti-VEGF group and combined group, respectively (anti-VEGF group vs. combined group, p &lt; 0.02). A mean of 4.9 injections (95% CI = 4.2–5.6) and 2.8 injections (95% CI = 1.3–4.4) were administered over a 12-month period in the anti-VEGF group and combined group, respectively. Meta-regression analyses showed no influence of injection number on visual and CMT outcomes. High heterogeneity was found across studies for both functional and anatomical outcomes.Conclusion: A combined approach with anti-VEGF and PDT could provide better functional and anatomical outcomes in RAP eyes compared with anti-VEGF monotherapy.
The mediating role of emotions in offline and online political participation: A post-social outbreak study in Ecuador and Chile
Authors: Villagrán Loreto , Reyes-Valenzuela Carlos , Alzugaray Carolina , Zumárraga-Espinosa Marcos , Méndez Jaime 
Published: June 2023

IntroductionIn 2019, there was a period of social outbreaks in several Latin American countries, which share a background of social inequality, distrust in authorities, a crisis of representativeness, and discontent towards social and economic policies. In October 2019, in Ecuador and Chile, participation in these protests was characterized by street protests and broad political participation in social networks and alternative media, which were followed or interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. These facts have been deeply researched, addressing causal and structural factors of the phenomenon, the alternatives of political participation, and the role of emotions as determinants of action in these contexts. The objective of this study is to explore offline and online political participation (Facebook) after the social outbreak of 2019 in both countries, based on political interest, and how emotions intervene, especially negative ones, in a context of high demobilization.MethodsA descriptive, correlational ex post facto and cross-sectional methodology was used, with the participation of 367 people, 210 from Ecuador (57.2%) and 157 from Chile (42.8%), aged between 17 and 48 years (M = 22.13, SD = 3.73). The measurement was carried out from 2020 to 2021.ResultsA mediation analysis showed that people who are more interested in politics are more likely to experience anger and anxiety with the political and economic situation, which motivates conventional political participation (Model 1). In Model 2 people who showed greater concern about the political and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and together with anger, favor online political participation, especially local support.DiscussionThese results suggest the influence of emotions on political participation, which occurs when there is an increase in social discontent due to government policies adopted during the pandemic and which represents a continuity of the discontent that was expressed in the October 2019 social outbreak.
Using patient-reported outcome measures to assess the effectiveness of social media networking programs for people living with overweight and obesity to adopt a healthier lifestyle
Authors: Saadi Alend , Fellrath Jean-Marc , Bec-Moussally Joanna , Papastathi-Boureau Chrysoula , Blanc Céline , Courtine Valentin , Vanini Léo , Marechal Marc , Authier Florence , Curty Bertrand , Fournier Pierre , Diana Michele , Saillant Stéphane 
Published: June 2023

IntroductionOverweight, obesity, and their associated health complications have become a major public health issue. Online approaches have been rarely attempted to address the problem. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of using social media networking for people living with overweight and obesity to adopt a healthier lifestyle with a three-month multidisciplinary healthcare program. Effectiveness was assessed through questionnaires on patient-related outcome measures (PROMs).Materials and methodsTwo non-profit associations designed the program delivered to people living with overweight and obesity in a closed group via Facebook, the popular social network. The three-month program had three main axes, namely nutrition, psychology, and physical activity. Anthropomorphic data and sociodemographic profiles were collected. Quality of life (QoL) was assessed at the beginning and at the end of the intervention using PROM questionnaires for six different domains, i.e., body image, eating behavior, physical, sexual, social, and psychological functioning.ResultsSix hundred and twenty persons participated in the program; 567 persons consented for the study, and 145 completed the questionnaires entirely. QoL was significantly improved in five out of six domains, i.e., body image, eating behavior, as well as physical, sexual, and psychological functioning. The improvement was valid regardless of age, gender, initial body mass index, person with or without children, educational level (primary versus secondary versus high school), and occupation (employment compared to unemployment or any kind of social assistance). In multivariate analysis, living as a couple was an independent factor correlated to a positive progression in four domains, i.e., body image, eating behavior, as well as physical, and psychological functioning.ConclusionThis study showed that an online lifestyle intervention might be a promising way of improving the quality of life of people living with overweight or obesity.
Research on the service quality of emergency medical language services during major unexpected public health events
Authors: Xie Jingyi , Ma Siyu 
Published: June 2023

IntroductionEmergency Medical Language Services (EMLS) have played a crucial role in the COVID-19 pandemic. Research on the quality and its influencing factors of EMLS is necessary.MethodsThis study used the SERvice QUALity (SERVQUAL) model to determine factors affecting the quality of EMLS during the pandemic. An online questionnaire was completed by 206 participants who received the service in 2021–2022. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) indicated that the service provider and service process significantly influenced the Service Results.ResultsIn the service process, the evaluation of service content and responsiveness were highly correlated, and both factors significantly affected user satisfaction. In the service provider, tangibility and reliability were highly correlated. The key factors for user willingness to recommend the service were service content and tangibility.DiscussionBased on the results of the data analysis, it can be inferred that EMLS should be improved and upgraded in terms of service organization, talent cultivation, and service channel expansion. To enhance service organization, an emergency medical language team should establish a close collaboration with local medical institutions and government departments, and an EMLS center should be established with the support of hospitals, government, or civil organizations.
Access to healthcare for people living with HIV: an analysis of judgments of the European Court of Human Rights from an ethical perspective
Authors: Skuban-Eiseler Tobias , Orzechowski Marcin , Steger Florian 
Published: June 2023

IntroductionAlthough HIV has been part of our reality for over 30 years, people living with HIV (PLHIV) still experience restrictions regarding their access to healthcare. This poses a significant ethical problem, especially as it endangers achieving the goal of ending the HIV epidemic worldwide. The aim of this paper is to analyze the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) regarding cases where PLHIV experienced restrictions on their access to healthcare.MethodsWe conducted an analysis of the ECtHR database and were able to identify N = 28 cases dealing with restricted access to healthcare for PLHIV. A descriptive and thematic analysis was conducted to identify ways in which access to healthcare for PLHIV was restricted.ResultsWe were able to identify a total of four main categories, with denial of adequate therapeutic support as the main category with N = 22 cases (78.57%). Most of the judgments examined were filed against Russia (N = 12, 42.86%) and Ukraine (N = 9, 32.14%). A large proportion of PLHIV in the cases studied (N = 57, 85.07%) were detainees.DiscussionThe analysis shows a clear condemnation of limited access to healthcare for PLHIV by the ECtHR. Ethical implications of the analyzed cases are discussed in detail.
Influences of race/ethnicity in periodontal treatment response and bacterial distribution, a cohort pilot study
Authors: Wang Bing-Yan , Burgardt Grayson , Parthasarathy Kavitha , Ho Daniel K. , Weltman Robin L. , Tribble Gena D. , Hong Jianming , Cron Stanley , Xie Hua 
Published: June 2023

ObjectivesPeriodontitis disproportionately affects different racial and ethnic populations. We have previously reported the higher levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis and lower ratios of Streptococcus cristatus to P. gingivalis may contribute to periodontal health disparities. This prospective cohort study was designed to investigate if ethnic/racial groups responded differently to non-surgical periodontal treatment and if the treatment outcomes correlated to the bacterial distribution in patients with periodontitis before treatment.MethodsThis prospective cohort pilot study was carried out in an academic setting, at the School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Dental plaque was collected from a total of 75 African Americans, Caucasians and Hispanics periodontitis patients in a 3-year period. Quantitation of P. gingivalis and S. cristatus was carried out using qPCR. Clinical parameters including probing depths and clinical attachment levels were determined before and after nonsurgical treatment. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, the Kruskal–Wallis test, the paired samples t-test and the chi-square test.ResultsThe gains in clinical attachment levels after treatment significantly differed amongst the 3 groups–Caucasians responded most favorably, followed by African-Americans, lastly Hispanics, while numbers of P. gingivalis were highest in Hispanics, followed by African-Americans, and lowest in Caucasians (p = 0.015). However, no statistical differences were found in the numbers of S. cristatus amongst the 3 groups.ConclusionDifferential response to nonsurgical periodontal treatment and distribution of P. gingivalis are present in different ethnic/racial groups with periodontitis.
Correcting intervertebral rotation and scoliosis simultaneously by oblique lumbar interbody fusion: a 3D analysis of EOS images
Authors: Xu Zhongning , Ge Tenghui , Li Qingyun , Cai Ronghui , Wu Jingye , Sun Yuqing 
Published: June 2023

PurposeWith advancements in minimally invasive techniques, oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) has gained widespread acceptance and is now commonly performed for adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS). The objective of this research paper is to evaluate three-dimensional (3D) intervertebral motions in EOS models before and after surgery and subsequently assess the efficacy of the 3D correction achieved through staged OLIF.MethodsIn this retrospective study, 29 consecutive patients diagnosed with ADS were included, with a mean age of 63.6 years, who underwent staged OLIF surgery between 2018 and 2021. Spinopelvic parameters were assessed using EOS images, and 3D models were reconstructed to measure intervertebral motion angles (IMAs) in 70 surgical intervertebral segments, comprising wedge, lordosis, and axial rotation angles. Regression analysis was conducted to compare IMAs in different planes before and after the staged OLIF surgery.ResultsSignificant three-dimensional correction was observed in 70 intervertebral segments following the first-stage OLIF. The wedge angles decreased from 5.2°± 4.2° to 2.7°± 2.4° (P &lt; 0.001). The lordosis angles increased from 5.1°± 5.9° to 7.8°± 4.6° (P = 0.014), while the axial rotation angles decreased from 3.8°± 2.6° to 2.3°± 2.1° (P &lt; 0.001). Linear regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between wedge angles and axial angles preoperatively (P &lt; 0.001, r = 0.43), as well as between corrected wedge angles and corrected axial angles (P &lt; 0.001, r = 0.42).ConclusionThis study demonstrated that intervertebral motions had a correlation between coronal and axial planes in lumbar degenerative scoliosis. First-stage OLIF was efficient at correcting segmental scoliosis by inserting cages while correcting rotation deformity simultaneously, as well as improving the sagittal spinopelvic parameters.
Effect of pre-operative radiation therapy on surgical outcome in retroperitoneal sarcoma
Authors: Jo Sung Jun , Park Sean S. W. , Yoo Gyu Sang , Kim Kyeong Deok , Lim So Hee , Kim Jinseob , Kim Min Jung , Yu Jeong Il , Park Jae Berm , Lee Kyo Won 
Published: June 2023

BackgroundA high rate of locoregional recurrence is one of the major difficulties in successful treatment of retroperitoneal sarcoma (RPS). Although pre-operative radiation therapy (RT) is considered a potential way to improve local recurrence, concerns about the associated treatment toxicity and risk of peri-operative complications need to be addressed. Hence, this study investigates the safety of pre-operative RT (preRTx) for RPS.MethodsA cohort of 198 patients with RPS who had undergone both surgery and RT was analyzed for peri-operative complications. They were divided into three groups according to the RT scheme: (1) preRTx group, (2) post-operative RT without tissue expander, and (3) post-operative RT with tissue expander.ResultsThe preRTx was overall well tolerated and did not affect the R2 resection rate, operative time, and severe post-operative complications. However, the preRTx group was associated with higher incidence of post-operative transfusion and admission to intensive care unit (p = 0.013 and p = 0.036, respectively), where preRTx was an independent risk factor only for the post-operative transfusion (p = 0.009) in multivariate analysis. The median radiation dose was the highest in preRTx group, although no significant difference was demonstrated in overall survival and local recurrence rate.ConclusionThis study suggests that the preRTx does not add significant post-operative morbidity to the patients with RPS. In addition, radiation dose elevation is achievable with the pre-operative RT. However, a meticulous intra-operative bleeding control is recommended in those patients, and further high-quality trials are warranted to evaluate the long-term oncological outcomes.