bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Factors predicting post-dialysis fatigue of maintenance hemodialysis patients
Authors: Li Huiwen , Yin Jinmei , Dong Yi , Tian Zhiwu 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Aims
Post-dialysis fatigue is a common complication in maintenance hemodialysis patients. This study aims to evaluate post-dialysis fatigue and discover related risk factors.

Design and methods
In this cross-sectional study, we used the specific scale to measure post-dialysis fatigue of maintenance hemodialysis patients from June to September 2021, and looked for risk factors from sociodemographic and clinical data.

Results
The post-dialysis fatigue score for 147 maintenance hemodialysis patients was 14.75 ± 8.24. The post-dialysis fatigue was associated with increasing age (b = 2.00, p = 0.016), fewer dialytic vintages (b =  − 1.91, p = 0.001), increasing inter-dialysis weight gain (b = 5.79, p < 0.01), decreasing hemoglobin (b =  − 3.30, p = 0.011) and Kt/V (b =  − 2.74, p = 0.035).

Conclusions
Patients with old age, dialytic vintage less than 36 months, poor control of inter-dialysis weight gain, anemia, and inadequate dialysis are more likely to suffer from post-dialysis fatigue.
Effect of curcumin on the expression of NOD2 receptor and pro-inflammatory cytokines in fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients
Authors: Akbari-Papkiadehi Fereshteh , Saboor-Yaraghi Ali Akbar , Farhadi Elham , Tahmasebi Mohammad Naghi , Sharafat Vaziri Arash , Aghaghazvini Leila , Asgari Marzieh , Poursani Shiva , Mansouri Fatemeh , Jamshidi Ahmadreza , Mahmoudi Mahdi 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Previous studies has shown that nucleotide-binding and oligomerization domain-containing protein 2 (NOD2) is expressed in Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients which is stimulated by muramyl dipeptide (MDP) present in the joint environment and induces inflammation via the NF-κB pathway. Also, other studies have shown that curcumin inhibits proliferation, migration, invasion, and Inflammation and on the other hand increases the apoptosis of RA FLSs. In this study, we aim to evaluate the effect of curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory micronutrient, on the expression of NOD2 and inflammatory cytokines.

Methods
Synovial membranes were collected from ten patients diagnosed with RA and ten individuals with traumatic injuries scheduled for knee surgery. The FLSs were isolated and treated with 40 μM curcumin alone or in combination with 20.3 μM MDP for 24 h. mRNA was extracted, and real-time PCR was performed to quantitatively measure gene expression levels of NOD2, p65, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β.

Results
The study findings indicate that administering MDP alone can significantly increase the mRNA expression levels of IL-6 and IL-1β in the trauma group and TNF-α in the RA group. Conversely, administering curcumin alone or in combination whit MDP can significantly reduce mRNA expression levels of P65 and IL-6 in FLSs of both groups. Moreover, in FLSs of RA patients, a single curcumin treatment leads to a significant reduction in NOD2 gene expression.

Conclusion
This study provides preliminary in vitro evidence of the potential benefits of curcumin as a nutritional supplement for RA patients. Despite the limitations of the study being an investigation of the FLSs of RA patients, the results demonstrate that curcumin has an anti-inflammatory effect on NOD2 and NF-κB genes. These findings suggest that curcumin could be a promising approach to relieve symptoms of RA.
Clinical Nomogram Using Novel Computed Tomography–Based Radiomics Predicts Survival in Patients With Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer Treated With Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy
Authors: Somasundaram Eashwar , Wadhwa Raoul R. , Litzler Adam , Barker-Clarke Rowan , Qi Peng , Videtic Gregory , Stephans Kevin , Pennell Nathan A. , Raymond Daniel , Yang Kailin , Kattan Michael W. , Scott Jacob G. 
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE Improved survival prediction and risk stratification in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) would lead to better prognosis counseling, adjuvant therapy selection, and clinical trial design. We propose the persistent homology (PHOM) score, the radiomic quantification of solid tumor topology, as a solution. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients diagnosed with stage I or II NSCLC primarily treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) were selected (N = 554). The PHOM score was calculated for each patient's pretreatment computed tomography scan (October 2008-November 2019). PHOM score, age, sex, stage, Karnofsky Performance Status, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and post-SBRT chemotherapy were predictors in the Cox proportional hazards models for OS and cancer-specific survival. Patients were split into high– and low–PHOM score groups and compared using Kaplan-Meier curves for overall survival (OS) and cumulative incidence curves for cause-specific death. Finally, we generated a validated nomogram to predict OS, which is publicly available at Eashwarsoma.Shinyapps. RESULTS PHOM score was a significant predictor for OS (hazard ratio [HR], 1.17; 95% CI, 1.07 to 1.28) and was the only significant predictor for cancer-specific survival (1.31; 95% CI, 1.11 to 1.56) in the multivariable Cox model. The median survival for the high-PHOM group was 29.2 months (95% CI, 23.6 to 34.3), which was significantly worse compared with the low-PHOM group (45.4 months; 95% CI, 40.1 to 51.8; P < .001). The high-PHOM group had a significantly greater chance of cancer-specific death at post-treatment month 65 (0.244; 95% CI, 0.192 to 0.296) compared with the low-PHOM group (0.171; 95% CI, 0.123 to 0.218; P = .029). CONCLUSION The PHOM score is associated with cancer-specific survival and predictive of OS. Our developed nomogram can be used to inform clinical prognosis and assist in making post-SBRT treatment considerations.
(Common) Data Elements in Radiation Oncology: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Dennstädt Fabio , Putora Paul Martin , Cihoric Nikola 
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE Structured medical data documentation is highly relevant in a data-driven discipline such as radiation oncology. Defined (common) data elements (CDEs) can be used to record data in clinical trials, health records, or computer systems for improved standardization and data exchange. The International Society for Radiation Oncology Informatics initiated a project for a scientific literature analysis of defined data elements for structured documentation in radiation oncology. METHODS We performed a systematic literature review on both PubMed and Scopus to analyze publications relevant to the utilization of specified data elements for the documentation of radiation therapy (RT)–related information. Relevant publications were retrieved as full-text and searched for published data elements. Finally, the extracted data elements were quantitatively analyzed and classified. RESULTS We found a total of 452 publications, of which 46 were considered relevant for structured data documentation. Twenty-nine publications addressed defined RT-specific data elements, of which 12 publications provided data elements. Only two publications focused on data elements in radiation oncology. The 29 analyzed publications were heterogeneous regarding the subject and usage of the defined data elements, and different concepts/terms for defined data elements were used. CONCLUSION The literature about structured data documentation in radiation oncology using defined data elements is scarce. There is a need for a comprehensive list of RT-specific CDEs the radio-oncologic community can rely on. As it has been done in other medical fields, establishing such a list would be of great value for clinical practice and research as it would promote interoperability and standardization.
New Signaling Kid on the Block in the Endocrine System: The Role of Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Xiong Jiali , Fan Yaotian , Wang Yuxuan , Luo Junyi , Chen Ting , Sun Jiajie , Xi Qianyun , Zhang Yongliang 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in both normal and pathological physiology. These natural nanoparticles are now recognized as a novel mechanism for intercellular communication, allowing cells to exchange biologically active molecules such as microRNAs (miRNAs). As is well acknowledged, the endocrine system regulates bodily operations through the emission of various hormones. The discovery of EVs took place approximately 80 years after that of hormones; circulating EVs have attracted considerable interest and are expected to be a frontier in the endocrine system. Interestingly, the interplay between hormones and EVs is a complex phenomenon that involves both synergistic and antagonistic effects. Moreover, EVs facilitate communication between endocrine cells and contain miRNAs that may serve as valuable biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis. This review aims to provide an overview of current research on physiological and pathological secretion of EVs from endocrine organs or tissues. Additionally, we examine the essential relationship between hormones and EVs in the endocrine system.
Development of a Modified Bayonet Forceps for Improving Steerability of Paddle Lead Electrodes During Spinal Cord Stimulator Surgery: A Technical Note
Authors: Zhang Justin K. , Alimadadi Alborz , Abolfotoh Mohammad , Mercier Philippe , Mattei Tobias A. 
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:
Despite recent advancements in spinal cord stimulation (SCS) technology, the surgical instrumentation for placement of SCS paddle leads remains suboptimal. Therefore, we developed a novel instrument to improve the steerability of SCS paddle leads during surgical placement.

METHODS:
A review of existing literature was performed to analyze workflow deficiencies in the standard instrumentation of SCS paddle lead placement. After a period of adaptation and iterative feedback with a medical instrument company, a new instrument was developed, tested at benchtop, and successfully incorporated into the surgical routine.

RESULTS:
A standard bayonet forceps was modified to include hooked ends and a ribbed surface, providing the surgeon with greater control over the paddle lead. The new instrument also included bilateral metal tubes starting approximately 4 cm proximal from the edge of the forceps. The bilateral metal tubes, through which the SCS paddle lead wires are passed, serve as anchors to keep the wires away from the incision site. In addition, it permitted the paddle lead to assume a bent configuration, reducing its overall size and allowing it to be placed through a smaller incision and laminectomy. The modified bayonet forceps was successfully used intraoperatively for placement of SCS paddle lead electrodes in several surgeries.

CONCLUSION:
The proposed modified bayonet forceps increased steerability of the paddle lead, facilitating optimal midline placement. The bent configuration of the device facilitated a more minimally invasive surgical approach. Future studies are needed to validate our single-provider experience and evaluate the impact of this new instrument on operating room efficiency.
Ac/Ds transposition for CRISPR/dCas9-SID4x epigenome modulation in zebrafish
Authors: Chong-Morrison Vanessa , Mayes Sarah , Simões Filipa C. , Senanayake Upeka , Carroll Dervla S. , Riley Paul R. , Wilson Stephen W. , Sauka-Spengler Tatjana 
Published: June 2023

ABSTRACT
Due to its genetic amenability coupled with advances in genome editing, zebrafish is an excellent model to examine the function of (epi)genomic elements. Here, we repurposed the Ac/Ds maize transposition system to efficiently characterise zebrafish cis-regulated elements, also known as enhancers, in F0-microinjected embryos. We further used the system to stably express guide RNAs enabling CRISPR/dCas9-interference (CRISPRi) perturbation of enhancers without disrupting the underlying genetic sequence. In addition, we probed the phenomenon of antisense transcription at two neural crest gene loci. Our study highlights the utility of Ac/Ds transposition as a new tool for transient epigenome modulation in zebrafish.
Policy Brief 11: Fighting corruption in West African coastal states: how Collective Action can help
Authors: Young Liza 
Published: June 2023

Africa is estimated to lose an unbelievable USD 88.6 billion (3.7% of Africa’s GDP) each year to illicit financial flows, of which corruption is a major component. Rooting out corruption is a collective effort, and the private sector has a major role to play in laying down the foundations for clean business environments and sustainable development.
That is why anti-corruption Collective Action has got so much to offer Africa, and in particular West African coastal states keen to maximise their clear economic potential. As the spectrum of Collective Action initiatives is quite large, it allows for innovative measures where governments, companies and civil society organisations (CSOs) can join forces toward a common objective, despite their different perspectives. This collaborative approach therefore provides a fertile ground for constructive dialogue between like-minded stakeholders, as well as an opportunity to understand the private sector’s language and reality.
CSOs have an important part to play in bringing Collective Action to the fight against corruption in West Africa. They must continue to initiate, facilitate and engage in Collective Action initiatives to help raise awareness and build bridges. Their presence can bring credibility, independent oversight and accountability to the initiatives.
This Policy Brief is based on conversations held with CSOs based in Benin (Social Watch Benin), Ghana (Ghana Integrity Initiative), Ivory Coast (Ivorian Youth Leaders’ Network) and Togo (The Togolese National Agency for Consumers and the Environment). It aims to capture their experiences, challenges and outlook on what the future for Collective Action could hold in the region.
Despite their different backgrounds, they are united on one point: fighting corruption collectively by raising the voice of the private sector is an important step to pave the way for sustainable economic growth.
Cut-off points for low skeletal muscle mass in older adults: Colombia versus other populations
Authors: Pineda-Zuluaga Maria Camila , González-Correa Clara Helena , Sepulveda-Gallego Luz Elena 
Published: June 2023

Background: The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in the Elderly defined sarcopenia as a geriatric syndrome with a diagnostic criteria of low skeletal muscle mass (LMM). Various sarcopenia consensuses recommend as cut-offs for LMM, the use of below 2 SDs from the mean skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) of a young reference group. Given the contrast between reported cut-offs, the objective of this study was to establish cut-offs for LMM from older adults in Manizales and compare them with those published in the literature. Methods: This was a prospective, cross-sectional analytical study in 237 healthy elderly patients from the city of Manizales, Colombia. Anthropometric measurements of weight, height and body mass index were estimated. The SMI was estimated with the Xitron Technologies bioimpedance meter using the Janssen formula. For the comparison of SMI cut-offs, studies that evaluated this parameter with bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) were taken into account, in addition to being obtained from the −2 SD from the sex-specific mean of a young reference group. Results: The cut-off points for SMI were 8.0 kg/m2 for men and 6.1 kg/m2 for women. There was a statistically significant difference when evaluating LMM from the cut-offs of the present study and those reported in Spain, Turkey, and Finland. The cut-off points of SMI derived from this sample of Colombian men and women may be adequate for the diagnosis in the Colombian geriatric population. However, we did not find significant differences when comparing the cut-offs for SMI from a population of older adults and young adults from the same city. Conclusions: The cut-off points of SMI by BIA derived from a sample of Colombian men and women may be adequate for the diagnosis of LMM in the Colombian geriatric population or populations with similar characteristics to those of the sample evaluated here.
Advancing posaconazole quantification analysis with a new reverse-phase HPLC method in its bulk and marketed dosage form
Authors: Rama Annamalai , Govindan Induja , Hebbar Srinivas , Chaturvedi Abhishek , Rani Usha , Naha Anup 
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Posaconazole is a widely used antifungal drug, and its accurate quantification is essential for quality control and assessment of its pharmaceutical products. This study aimed to develop and validate a reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analytical method for quantifying Posaconazole in bulk and dosage form. Methods: The HPLC method was developed and validated based on International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines. The developed method was then applied to quantify Posaconazole in a marketed tablet formulation. The method's specificity, linearity, precision, accuracy, robustness, and stability were evaluated. Results: The developed HPLC method showed good linearity over a 2-20 μg/mL concentration range. The percentage recovery of Posaconazole from the bulk and marketed formulations was found to be 99.01% and 99.05%, respectively. The intra-day and inter-day precisions were less than 1%, and the method was stable under different conditions. The HPLC method was successfully applied to quantify Posaconazole in the marketed formulation. Conclusion: The developed and validated HPLC method is reliable and efficient for analyzing Posaconazole in bulk and dosage forms. The method's accuracy, precision, specificity, linearity, robustness, and stability demonstrate its effectiveness. The method can be used for the quality control and assessment of Posaconazole-containing pharmaceutical products.
Use of strain elastography in comparative evaluation of elasticity of masseter muscle in complete denture as against implant supported overdenture.
Authors: Agarwal Pragati , Sathe Seema 
Published: June 2023

Introduction The masticatory muscles play an important role in natural function and functional disorders of craniomandibular system. Occlusal variables have an impact on the masticatory muscles' action and strength. The masticatory muscles cannot contract as forcefully as they do when natural teeth are present, which is caused by pathological ageing and tooth loss. Consequently, it can be demonstrated that edentulous patients have lower masticatory cycle amplitude, efficiency, and masticatory force than dentulous individuals. Objectives Using strain elastography, evaluate and compare the elasticity of the masseter muscle in complete edentulous individuals and have undergone rehabilitation with complete dentures against those who have undergone rehabilitation with implant-supported dentures. Methodology Two groups of totally edentulous patients would be chosen. The rehabilitation of one group would involve complete dentures, whereas the rehabilitation of the other group would use implant-supported dentures. At the moment of denture insertion and three months later, strain elastography will be used to scan both sides of the masseter muscle. Both groups' values would be compared. Expected results The study's anticipated result is that patients who receive rehabilitation with implant-supported overdentures have greater masseter muscle elasticity than patients who receive rehabilitation with complete dentures. Conclusion The study would give dental professionals a way to efficiently assess the masseter muscle's elasticity in patients who are completely edentulous. Also, it would compare the flexibility of the masseter muscle between a denture supported by implants and a complete denture.
Changing the method of consent to increase the numbers of cadaveric donors in Saudi Arabia: the autonomy paradox
Authors: AL Shawan Deema , Albagmi Faisal , AlNujaidi Heba 
Published: June 2023

Background: In Saudi Arabia, the gap between the demand and availability of organs persists, with a total of 13,731 patients who remain on the waiting list in 2019. Family refusal is a major obstacle limiting donation since their consent must be obtained prior to the retrieval of organs. The cause of family refusal is mainly due to the unknown wishes of their loved one to become a donor. This analysis aimed to compare three systems of obtaining consent in terms of effectiveness, respect for personal autonomy, and the cultural role of families in Saudi Arabia to ensure feasibility and effectiveness in increasing the number of donors. Policy alternatives and implications: The consent systems include opt-in (explicit consent), opt-out (presumed consent), and mandated choice systems. The mandated choice policy might be the optimal solution to investigate since it could balance the respect for individual autonomy and the cultural role of families in Saudi Arabia. Conclusions and recommendations: Mandated choice could be an option that ensures the respect of personal autonomy while influencing the next of kin's decision to donate the organs. Nevertheless, more research should be conducted to support adopting this policy in the Saudi context. Additionally, a recommendation to decision makers is to utilize the Tawakkalna app to send alerts to the next of kin when a user registers as a donor with the user's consent.
The missing piece. The perceived marginalization of CSOs and HRGs in SOSTs’ decision-making processes: a review
Authors: De Sabbata Lorenzo , Laterza Riccardo , Del Bianco Daniele , Ferrari Olivia , Benedetti Ezio 
Published: June 2023

This review represents the first contribution of a research diptych which stems from the activities implemented in the framework of the H2020 ARESIBO project (Augmented Reality Enriched Situation awareness for Border security). The general objective of ARESIBO is to improve the efficiency of border surveillance systems by providing the operational teams, as well as the tactical command and control level with accurate and comprehensive information related to border control considering different issues and perspectives. These perspectives also include the analysis of the level of engagement and the (possible) enhancement of citizens’ involvement in the development and decision making related to border surveillance. The principal human rights and migration International Organisations (IOs), as well as EU institutions dealing with security and external borders (i.e., Frontex), agree and state that human rights groups (HRGs) and civil society organisations (CSOs) should be more involved and integrated in border surveillance. That stated, the main goal of this paper is to analyse this perceived marginalisation of CSOs and HRGs, as it emerges from several HRGs’ and CSOs’ statements on that regard in order to explore the reasons of this perceived marginalisation, as well as the elements that on the contrary seem to make this marginalisation less sustantial. The results of this systematic review in the framework of ARESIBO led to the elaboration of an innovative participatory model that will be analysed in detail in the second article of this research diptych, entitled “Towards the engagement of citizens in SOSTs decision-making: participatory models setting a common ground for border surveillance and respect of fundamental rights. The case of ARESIBO H2020 project”.