bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Fasting for male fertility—a mixed methods study
Authors: May Katharina T. , Behling Jocelyn , Sochiera-Plegniere Katharina , Batschari Katharina , Kessler Christian S. , Michalsen Andreas , Kandil Farid I. , Blakeslee Sarah B. , Jeitler Michael , Stritter Wiebke , Koppold Daniela A. 
Published: January 2025

PurposeApproximately 10–20% of couples in Germany are unable to conceive. About 50% of this subfertility can be attributed to the male partner. Preclinical studies suggest that fasting could potentially influence central mechanisms of spermatogenesis. This study aimed at investigating feasibility and effects of a Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD) in the context of male subfertility.Materials and methodsIn this two-arm, randomized, controlled, exploratory mixed methods study men with impaired sperm quality were randomized into a fasting and a waiting-list control group. The fasting group followed an FMD (500 kcal/d for 5 days) thrice within 4 months, while the control group was instructed to maintain their lifestyle and diet. We assessed sperm quality according to WHO criteria (total and progressive sperm motility, concentration, total sperm count, ejaculation volume and sperm morphology) from baseline to 6 months later. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in a subgroup and evaluated by structured content analysis.ResultsRecruitment proved difficult, with 18 out of only 22 recruited participants completing all visits. There were no marked group differences between fasters (n = 10, 36.9 ± 5.17 years) and controls (n = 8, 36.1 ± 2.8 years) regarding sperm parameters. Effect sizes suggest slight positive trends regarding between group changes in the ANCOVA for total sperm motility (eta2 = 0.030) progressive sperm motility (eta2 = 0.059), total sperm count (eta2 = 0.001), concentration (eta2 = 0.050), normal sperm morphology (eta2 = 0.019) and the percentage of round cells (eta2 = 0.462) in the fasting group and a general decrease of sperm quality in the control group. This decrease of sperm quality concerned all parameters but the ejaculation volume, which increased in the CG but decreased in the FG (eta2 = 0.254). The decline of sperm quality in the CG is not explicable by the study setting. We also saw positive trends concerning the intragroup changes (e.g., within group change for progressive sperm motility: d = 0.36), Qualitative analysis (10 interviews) showed FMD feasibility, and its compatibility with full-time work. Motivation toward a healthier lifestyle after the FMD and a feeling of self-empowerment concerning one’s fertility were reported.ConclusionThis limited exploratory study showed FMD feasibility but found no notable differences between groups regarding all parameters. Yet, we saw positive trends regarding the between and within group changes in favour of the fasting group. Possible beneficial effects of the FMD on sperm quality should be investigated in larger studies. Interview results suggest that fasting could be a useful supportive intervention in male subfertility regarding self-efficacy and positive lifestyle changes.
Long-term outcomes of LDR-brachytherapy for localized prostate cancer
Authors: Mäkelä Lauri , Pétas Anssi , Mikkola Arto , Visapää Harri 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionThis retrospective study aims to evaluate the long-term efficacy and urinary toxicity of LDR-brachytherapy for localized prostate cancer.Materials and methods235 primary prostate cancer patients treated with LDR-brachytherapy and subsequently followed up in our center were included in this study. Biochemical relapse free survival (bRFS), overall survival (OS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were evaluated. Additionally, the incidence of late urinary complications was recorded.ResultsMedian follow-up time was 11,6 years. 181 patients (77%) were classified as low-risk patients, while 52 patients (22,1%) were intermediate risk. The overall bRFS was 83,8% at 5 years and 72,4% at 10 years. 5- and 10-year OS were 97,8% and 87,8% respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in bRFS or OS between different risk groups. The rate of late urinary complications was 8,9%. Volume of prostate had a statistically significant effect on bRFS, as smaller prostate volumes led to worse bRFS.ConclusionsThis retrospective study shows that LDR brachytherapy is an effective treatment for low- and intermediate risk prostate cancer patients with relatively low but still significant risk of late urinary complications.
Global, regional, and national trends in colorectal cancer burden from 1990 to 2021 and projections to 2040
Authors: Zhang Tao , Guo Yuchen , Qiu Binxu , Dai Xianyu , Wang Yifei , Cao Xueyuan 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundColorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignancy with notable recent shifts in its burden distribution. Current data on CRC burden can guide screening, early detection, and treatment strategies for efficient resource allocation.MethodsThis study utilized data from the latest Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors (GBD) Study. Initially, a series of descriptive statistics were performed on the incident cases, deaths, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and age-standardized rates (ASRs) of CRC. Percentage changes and average annual percentage changes (AAPC) were then calculated to understand the trends in CRC disease burden. Decomposition and frontier analyses were conducted, and finally, the Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model was used to predict changes in ASRs up to 2040.ResultsThe GBD 2021 estimates indicate a significant increase in the global incident cases, deaths, and DALYs of CRC from 1990 to 2021. The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) increased (AAPC: 0.2), while the age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) (AAPC: -0.72) and age-standardized DALYs rate (AAPC: -0.73) decreased. Males bore a higher disease burden than females, though the trends in disease burden changes were similar for both sexes. Although developed regions had higher incident cases, deaths, and DALYs, they showed more significant declines in ASRs. Decomposition analysis revealed that population growth and aging were the primary drivers of the increased disease burden. Frontier analysis showed that as the Socio-demographic Index increased, the disparity in CRC ASRs among countries widened, with developed regions having greater potential to reduce these rates. The By 2040, the BAPC model projects significant declines in global ASMR and age-standardized DALYs rates, while ASIR is expected to decrease in females but increase in males and across both sexes.ConclusionCRC remains a significant public health issue with regional and gender differences, necessitating region- and population-specific prevention strategies.
Long-term disease control in dedifferentiated liposarcoma: a case report on trabectedin priming followed by PD-1 inhibition
Authors: Waldschmidt Johannes M. , Haug Lukas , Riedhammer Christine , Deinzer Christoph K. W. , Zimmermann Marcus , Heidemeier Anke , Raab Peter , Rudert Maximilian , Hendricks Anne , Lock Johan F. , Buck Viktoria , Rosenwald Andreas , Einsele Hermann , Reichardt Peter , Kunzmann Volker , Wiegering Armin , Pink Daniel , Kortüm K. Martin 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundDedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) is a rare mesenchymal cancer originating from the adipose tissue, with poor survival rates for most patients, highlighting the critical need for novel treatment options.Case descriptionThis report examines the efficacy and safety of sequential pre-treatment with the marine-derived alkaloid trabectedin followed by checkpoint inhibition using the anti-PD-1 antibody nivolumab in a 63-year-old male patient with unresectable retroperitoneal DDLPS. Treatment was initiated at the time of the seventh relapse as part of the NitraSarc phase 2 multicenter trial for inoperable soft tissue sarcoma conducted by the German Interdisciplinary Sarcoma Group (GISG-15, NCT03590210). The patient demonstrated an immediate tumor response, and in combination with minor surgery, achieved R0 resection status, which was subsequently maintained without the need for further therapy for the past 52 months. Correlative molecular analyses revealed a sustained DNA damage repair machinery and downregulation of PD-1 protein expression in post-treatment tumor samples.ConclusionThis report provides exemplary insight on the feasibility and efficacy of sequential pre-treatment with trabectedin as a priming strategy for PD-1 inhibition in advanced DDLPS. Full trial results from NitraSarc are pending for publication.
Predicting recurrence of non-muscle invasive bladder urothelial carcinoma: predictive value of the optimal cut-off value of Ki67
Authors: Peng Rende , Zhang Yaoyu , Jia Mingzhu , Yi Xinping , Yi Xiaoyao , Li Shadan , Pi Jiangchuan , Meng Wenjun 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveTo investigate the optimal cut-off value of immunohistochemical marker Ki67 as a prognostic factor to predict the recurrence of non-muscle invasive bladder urothelial carcinoma (NMIBUC).MethodsA total of 331 patients diagnosed with NMIBUC who underwent surgery in the Yongchuan Hospital and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from January 2012 to January 2020 were finally included in this study. The optimal cut-off value of Ki67 for predicting recurrence of NMIBUC was calculated by ROC curve and Youden index. According to the cut-off value, the patients were divided into high ratio group and low ratio group, and the clinicopathological data of the two groups were compared. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis were used to analyze the relationship between the expression of Ki67 and postoperative recurrence of NMIBUC. The Kaplan-Meier curve was used for survival analysis.Results18% is the optimal cut-off value of Ki67 for predicting postoperative recurrence of NMIBUC. High Ki67 expression (Ki67&gt;18%) was significantly correlated with tumor stage (P=0.001), tumor grade (P=0.014), immediate postoperative instillation (P=0.001), the expression of P53 (P=0.019) and CK20 (P=0.001). Ki67 expression greater than 18% was an independent risk factor for high recurrence rate of NMIBUC (P=0.001). Moreover, the 1-year and 3-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) of the high Ki67 group were 56.6% (95%CI 51.2%-62%) and 43.6% (95%CI 37.5%-49.7%) respectively, which were significantly lower than those in low Ki67 group which present as 92.9% (95%CI 89.0%-96.8%) and 88.3% (95%CI 82.4%-94.2%) respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (P&lt;0.001).Conclusions18% is the optimal cut-off value of Ki67 for predicting recurrence of NMIBUC. Ki67&gt;18% is an independent risk factor for high recurrence rate of NMIBUC. This cut-off value can more accurately predict the risk of recurrence and has the potential clinical value for guiding the postoperative adjuvant treatment and follow-up strategy of NMIBUC.
Walnut oil prevents hyperlipidemia induced by high-fat diet and regulates intestinal flora and liver metabolism
Authors: Yang Rui , Chen Dan , Chen Yanling , Ma Yage , Chen Chaoyin , Zhao Shenglan 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveThis study aims to investigate the preventive effect of walnut oil as medicinal food on abnormal lipid metabolism and its influence on liver metabolites and intestinal flora.MethodsThe rat model of abnormal lipid metabolism was established by feeding high-fat diet and administering a high-fat emulsion via gavage. The rats were randomly assigned to one of the five groups: the normal group (ND), the model group (HFD), and three walnut oil intervention groups differing in dosage [low-dose (OL, 2.5 g/kg. BW/day), medium-dose (OM, 5 g/kg. BW/day) and high-dose (OH, 10 g/kg. BW/day)]. Modeling and administration were performed simultaneously for 10 weeks. After the last administration, the serum and organs of the animals were collected under anesthesia, and the organ index was analyzed. Serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured. A histopathological examination of the liver was performed, and the intestinal flora was detected by Illumina technology.ResultsCompared to the ND group, the HFD group exhibited a significant increase in body weight and Lee’s index. Compared to the HFD group, each walnut oil intervention group showed a relatively reduced degree of liver swelling and a significant decrease in fat vacuoles within the cytoplasm. Levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were significantly decreased (p &lt; 0.05), while HDL-C levels were increased (p &lt; 0.05), along with a significant increase in the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) and a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) content in serum. These findings indicated that walnut oil could improve the blood lipid profile in hyperlipidemia-model rats. The results of intestinal flora showed that at the genus level, there were significant increases in the relative abundance of Collinsella and Blautia (p &lt; 0.01) while significant decreases of Oscillospira and Allobaculum (p &lt; 0.01) in the HFD group vs. the ND group. However, these flora changes were impeded although only Collinslla (p &lt; 0.05) in the OL group. Metabonomics analysis identified that a total of 19 potential biomarkers were screened out from the differential metabolites with |log2FC| &gt; 1, VIP &gt; 1 and p &lt; 0.05.ConclusionWalnut oil can significantly prevent hyperlipidemia caused by high-fat diet. The mechanism is mainly through significantly reducing the content of MDA and the activities of ALT and AST, significantly increasing the activity of GSH-PX, and improving intestinal flora and liver metabolism.
Validation of existential fulfillment scale in Chinese university students
Authors: Chen Jian , Chen Xiaoyan , Miao Chen 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionThis study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Existential Fulfillment Scale (EFS) in a Chinese university student sample, emphasizing the cultural fit of the scale.MethodsA cohort of 1,600 undergraduate students from six universities in Fujian Province completed questionnaires including the EFS, Meaning of Life Questionnaire (MLQ), Index of Well-Being (IWB), and Self-Depression Scale (SDS). We conducted item analysis, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and assessments of criterion-related validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability.ResultsThe Chinese EFS consists of two dimensions—self-acceptance and self-breakthrough—across 14 items, reflecting cultural distinctions from the original model by combining the dimensions of self-actualization and self-transcendence. This revised structure aligns with Chinese cultural perspectives on individual growth, where self-actualization often integrates aspects of self-transcendence. The scale showed positive associations with the MLQ and IWB and a negative association with the SDS, supporting the scale’s criterion-related validity. Internal consistency ranged from 0.87 to 0.97, and test-retest reliability ranged from 0.75 to 0.83.DiscussionThese findings indicate that the Chinese EFS is a reliable tool for assessing existential fulfillment among Chinese university students.
Impact of pediatric tracheostomy on family caregivers’ burden and quality of life: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Aung Win Thu , Ong Natasha Yixuan , Yeo Shina Qing Chun , Juhari Nur Syahindah Binti , Kong Gwyneth , Lim Nicole-Ann , Amin Zubair , Ng Yvonne Peng Mei 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionThe incidence of pediatric tracheostomy is on the rise. More children are undergoing tracheostomy at a younger age and living longer and cared for at home. Caring for children with tracheostomy affects the caregivers’ Quality of Life (QOL) and caregiver burden. We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the impact of pediatric tracheostomy on caregivers’ QOL and caregiver burden.MethodsWe performed a search for quantitative studies measuring QOL, caregiver burden and related factors such as psychological distress, coping, stress, and financial strain using validated instruments, reported by caregivers of children with tracheostomy. We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials, CINAHL, and PsycINFO with the following search terms: “pediatrics,” “tracheostomy,” “quality of life,” “caregivers,” “care burden” from the inception of respective databases to 23rd May 2024. Meta-analysis was conducted using R (version 4.3.1).ResultsTwenty-three studies (1,299 caregivers) were included in systematic review. Seven studies (469 caregivers) using Pediatric Quality of Life Family Integrated Module underwent meta-analysis. The pooled mean total family impact score, parental health-related QOL, family functioning score were 70.29 [95% CI, 61.20–79.37], 69.27 [95% CI, 60.88–77.67], and 72.96 [95% CI, 65.92–80.00] respectively. Other key instruments were the Pediatric Tracheostomy Health Status Instrument and Zarit Burden Interview. Qualitative synthesis identified several risk factors for lower QOL and higher caregiver burden: comorbidities in children, younger age at tracheostomy, need for additional medical equipment, presence of older siblings, higher financial strain, being the sole caregiver or being unmarried, and maternal depression. Caregivers’ QOL correlated positively with coping and negatively with stress which is, in turn, associated with medical complications in the first year and the duration of tracheostomy. About 40% of mothers experienced moderate to severe caregiver burden while caring for their children with tracheostomy and this was significantly correlated with depression. Encouragingly, parents also reported positive experience including closeness of the family, feeling stronger, and having a strong sense of mastery.DiscussionCaregivers of children with tracheostomy experience low QOL and high caregiver burden, which were exacerbated by various medical and psychosocial factors. QOL should be assessed during clinical encounters to identify caregivers who require additional support which includes learning coping and stress reduction strategies.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=334457, identifier CRD42022334457.
Case report: VEXAS syndrome: first documented cases in Latin America
Authors: Ottati Carolina , Gervaz Inés , Yandian Martín , Boada Matilde , Vidal-Senmache Gabriela , Ortiz-Guerra Percy , Catalán Ana I. , Kutscher Patricia , Lopez Diego , Diaz Lilian , Grille Sofia 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionVEXAS syndrome (Vacuoles, E1 Enzyme, X-linked, Autoinflammatory, Somatic) is a recently identified disorder associated with somatic mutations in the UBA1 gene. Predominantly affecting adult males, it is characterized by a wide range of autoinflammatory symptoms and hematologic abnormalities.MethodsWe present three cases from Latin America, marking the first reported occurrences in this region, to illustrate the clinical variability and diagnostic challenges of VEXAS syndrome.ResultsEach patient exhibited unique clinical presentations, including refractory autoinflammatory symptoms, myelodysplastic syndrome, and bone marrow vacuolization. All cases were confirmed via genetic testing, revealing pathogenic UBA1 mutations alongside other genetic variants commonly linked with myeloid neoplasms.DiscussionThese findings underscore the importance of considering VEXAS syndrome in patients with unexplained inflammatory and hematologic symptoms. The coexistence of UBA1 mutations with other genetic variants suggests a potential overlap with clonal hematopoiesis, complicating the clinical picture. These cases contribute to the understanding of VEXAS syndrome and highlight the need for increased awareness and diagnostic testing in diverse populations to ensure early and accurate diagnosis.
Anthropometric Evaluation of Tertiary Institution Mounted Desktop Furniture
Authors: Sylvia Adu , George Adu , Alfred Asante Boadi , Antwi Kwaku 
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Students in the classroom often use mounted desktop furniture that is not the right size for lectures, studying, and completing coursework. Methods: A study measuring body composition was conducted on 300 university students at Kumasi Technical University, Ghana to design an ergonomic modeled mounted desktop furniture. The study focused on whether the existing designed dimensions fit the students body proportions so that the best recommended dimensions for newly ergonomic modeled mounted desktop classroom furniture can be tested to ascertain its effect on the ergonomics and comfort of the proposed design for the target user population. Results: The study compared students' anthropometry data with their furniture dimensions and reported on three furniture sizes (seat-to-desk clearance, backrest width, and desk width) that fit students’ posture and comfort, while six furniture sizes (seat height, seat width, seat depth, seat to desk height, desk depth and upper edge of backrest) were unfit for the postural alignment and comfort requirements of university students in their study spaces. Conclusion: Implementing recommended furniture measurements to design the newly modeled classroom mounted desktop designs will optimise comfortable user seating position to mitigate the risk of musculoskeletal disorders to ensure students possess the physical, mental, and emotional well-being necessary for a successful career.
Analisis Perbandingan Pembagian Harta Waris berdasarkan Hukum Adat Minangkabau dan KUHPerdata
Authors: Musyaffa Abidin Fikri Rafi , Putri Andi Sabila , Maryam Tazkia Asshiva , Maharani Marsya Arviela , Fahrhezi Tigor Akhmad , Sakti Muthia 
Published: January 2025

Abstrak
Penelitian ini membandingkan praktik pembagian warisan menurut hukum adat Minangkabau dan Kitab Undang-Undang Hukum Perdata (KUHPerdata) menggunakan metode yuridis normatif. Hukum adat Minangkabau mengikuti sistem kolektif berdasarkan garis keturunan ibu (matrilineal), dengan penekanan pada pelestarian harta dalam keluarga besar melalui kepemilikan kolektif. Sebaliknya, KUHPerdata menerapkan pendekatan individualistik, mengklasifikasikan ahli waris dalam empat golongan dan memberikan hak waris berdasarkan hubungan darah dan perkawinan tanpa membedakan jenis kelamin. Perbandingan ini mengungkapkan perbedaan mendasar dalam filosofi, klasifikasi, sistem pembagian, serta penentuan ahli waris antara kedua sistem hukum. Meskipun terdapat perbedaan, keduanya berupaya memberikan keadilan dalam pembagian warisan sesuai konteks budaya dan hukum masing-masing.
Ruptured Pseudoaneurysm in a Renal Angiomyolipoma: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Mostafa Mostafa M. , Kamel Mostafa , Zarzour Mohamed , Mahdy Ayman 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT
Pseudoaneurysm formation in angiomyolipoma (AML) is a rare complication of the disease that can be fatal in the case of improper management. Options for diagnosis and treatment depend on how quickly you proceed in management. We present a case of a 46-year-old female with a ruptured pseudoaneurysm in the right renal AML. The rapid diagnosis with color Doppler ultrasound and contrast-enhanced computed tomography, together with the urgent management with selective angioembolization, were very effective. However, the development of an infected perinephric hematoma made subsequent open drainage and concomitant partial nephrectomy a must. We are also presenting a literature review on the condition using three databases and a random search to reflect on the incidence and associations of that condition with different management and experience. Pseudoaneurysm formation in AML occurs more frequently in young females and is mostly associated with the tuberous sclerosis complex. The rupture of the pseudoaneurysm is a serious complication and can occur spontaneously or with minor trauma. The risk of rupture of pseudoaneurysm is unpredictable; however, a large pseudoaneurysm with a large tumor in a female patient should represent an alarming sign of the need for more intensive follow-up. The gold standard in treatment is selective angioembolization after stabilization of the patient’s general condition.