bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dual-energy computed tomography to detect early pulmonary vascular changes in children with sickle cell disease: a pilot study
Authors: Joye Raphael , Wacker Julie , Nguyen Duy-Anh , Hachulla Anne-Lise , Maggio Albane B. R. , Cimasoni Laurent , Lador Frederic , Ansari Marc , Beghetti Maurice 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionPulmonary hypertension (PH) is a rare but fatal complication of sickle cell disease (SCD) that is possibly reversible if treated early. Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) is a valuable tool for diagnosing PH. We attempted to determine if DECT can detect early signs of PH in children with SCD.MethodsThis prospective observational pilot study was conducted at the Geneva University Hospitals and was approved by the local human ethics committee (CCER 2019-01975). A written informed consent was obtained from the patients and/or their legal guardian. Eight children (consisting of five girls and three boys) with homozygous SCD were included in the study. They underwent full cardiological workup using transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET), as well as DECT.ResultsThe median age of the children was 11 years old (range 8–12). All patients exhibited a normal biventricular systo-diastolic function using the TTE. The median tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity value was 2.24 m/s (range 1.96–2.98). Four children were found to have signs of vasculopathy detected on DECT. Of them, two had abnormal screening test results. They both had an increased VE/VCO2 slope during CPET and an increased TVR of &gt;2.5 m/s on TTE.ConclusionDECT is capable of identifying early signs of pulmonary vascular disease in children with SCD. Further studies are needed to understand the correlation between DECT abnormalities and hemodynamic pulmonary circulation better.
Effects of 3-week repeated cold water immersion on leukocyte counts and cardiovascular factors: an exploratory study
Authors: Versteeg Ninja , Clijsen Ron , Hohenauer Erich 
Published: August 2023

Aim: This exploratory study aimed to investigate the effects of a 3-week repeated cold water immersion (CWI) intervention on leukocyte counts and cardiovascular factors (mean arterial pressure [MAP], heart rate [HR]) in healthy men.Methods: A total of n = 12, non-cold-adapted men (age: 25.2 ± 4.0 years; height: 177.8 ± 5.6 cm; weight: 73.8 ± 6.5 kg) were randomly allocated to the CWI or control (CON) group. The CWI group underwent a 3-week repeated CWI intervention (12min at 7°C, 4x/week). The CON group did not receive any cold exposure or therapy. Total leukocyte numbers and proportions (neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, monocytes, lymphocytes) and cardiovascular factors (MAP, HR) were assessed at baseline and after the 3-week intervention period.Results: Total leukocyte count decreased in CWI (p = 0.027, 95% CI −2.35 to −0.20 × 103/µL) and CON (p = 0.043, 95% CI −2.75 to −0.50 × 103/µL). CWI showed a decrease in neutrophil number (p = 0.028, 95% CI −1.55 to −0.25 × 103/µL) and proportion (p = 0.046, 95% CI −6.42 to 0.56%). In contrast, CON showed no significant change (p &gt; 0.05). No differences were found for other leukocyte subtypes in CWI or CON (all p &gt; 0.05). MAP (p = 0.028, 95% CI −17 to −8 mmHg) and HR (p = 0.027, 95% CI −7 to −2 bpm) were reduced in CWI, whereas CON showed no change (p &gt; 0.05).Conclusion: The results suggest no relevant effects of 3-week repeated CWI on leukocyte counts in healthy men. Due to methodological limitations, the effects on the investigated cardiovascular factors remain unclear. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to examine the effects on immune function and cardiovascular health.
Effects of whole-body vibration training combined with KAATSU training on lower limb joint muscle strength in older women
Authors: Xiong Weizhi , Liu Xuefeng 
Published: August 2023

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of whole-body vibration training (WBVT) combined with KAATSU training (KT) on lower limb joint muscle strength and to provide a reference for improving muscle strength in older women.Methods: A total of 86 healthy older people was randomly divided into WBVT group (WG, n = 21), KT group (KG, n = 22), combined intervention group (CIG, n = 20) and control group (CG, n = 23). WG and CIG subjects underwent WBVT, and KG and CIG subjects underwent 150 mmHg and lower limb joint and local compression intervention for 16 weeks (three times per week, about 15 min/time). The peak torque (PT) and endurance ratio (ER) of joint flexion or extension were tested for all subjects.Results: 1) Results at 16 weeks were compared with the baseline data. The knee extension and ankle flexion PT (60°/s) in CIG increased by 14.3% and 15.3%, respectively (p &lt; 0.05). The knee extension PT (180°/s) increased by 16.9, 18.4% and 33.3% in WG, KG and CIG (p &lt; 0.05), respectively, and the ankle extension PT (180°/s) in CIG increased by 31.1% (p &lt; 0.05). The hip, knee extension and ankle flexion ER increased by 10.0, 10.9% and 5.7% in CIG (p &lt; 0.05), respectively. 2) Results were compared among groups at 16 weeks. The relative changes were significantly lower in WG, KG and CG compared to CIG in the knee extension and ankle flexion PT (60°/s) (p &lt; 0.05). The relative changes were significantly greater in WG, KG and CIG compared to CG in the knee extension PT (180°/s) (p &lt; 0.05). The relative changes were significantly lower in WG, KG and CG compared to CIG in the ankle extension PT (180°/s) (p &lt; 0.05). The relative changes were significantly lower in WG, KG and CG compared to CIG in the hip extension ER (p &lt; 0.05). The relative changes were significantly lower in CG compared to CIG in the knee extension ER (p &lt; 0.05).Conclusion: Sixteen-week WBVT and KT increased the knee extensor strength in older women. Compared with a single intervention, the combined intervention had better improvements in the knee extensor and ankle flexor and extensor strength and hip extension muscle endurance. Appears to be some additional benefit from combined intervention above those derived from single-interventions.
Active permanent greening – a new slope greening technology based on mineral solubilizing microorganisms
Authors: Wang Lingjian , Tang Xinggang , Liu Xin , Zhang Jinchi 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionWith social and economic development and the associated large-scale exploitation of natural resources, the number of slopes has significantly increased. As slope instability can lead to serious geological disasters, the ecological protection and reconstruction of slopes has become a hot topic of common global concern.MethodsIn order to achieve scientific slope management and overcome the difficulty of maintaining slope greening in the long term, this study explored eight strategies (A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, ABC, CK), involving different patented mineral solubilizing microorganisms (MSMs), and analyzed the field application of active permanent greening (APG) based on MSMs.ResultsThe results revealed that MSMs significantly increased the content of effective metal ions and available nutrients in soil and enhanced soil enzyme activity. Among all strategies, strategy A showed significant superiority, with soil effective calcium, magnesium, potassium, nitrogen, phosphorus and organic matter contents increasing by 51.62%, 55.41%, 30.42%, 39.77%, 181.69% and 76.92%, respectively, while urease, sucrase and peroxidase activities increased by 89.59%, 74.68% and 85.30%. MSMs strongly promoted the growth of Amorpha. Strategy A showed the best performance, with plant seedling height, ground diameter, leaf area, root length, and root volume increasing by 95.75%, 47.78%, 124.14%, 108.83%, and 139. 86%, respectively. According to a comprehensive evaluation using the entropy-analysis hierarchy process, strategy A has great potential for application. The field test results verified that APG has significantly better greening performance than the traditional greening method, with high vegetation cover and stable soil layer.DiscussionThe results of this study provide a reliable practical basis and technical reference for the development, promotion, and application of APG.
Association of mindfulness on state-trait anxiety in choking-susceptible athletes: mediating roles of resilience and perceived stress
Authors: Tang Yiwei , Jing Longjun , Liu Yang , Wang Huilin 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionIt is a well-documented psychological phenomenon for athletes to experience abnormal performance on the field, often called choking. Negative emotions such as perceived stress and state-trait anxiety have been linked to this phenomenon. In an effort to delve into the intricate relationship between mindfulness and state-trait anxiety among athletes susceptible to choking, this study was conducted in Central China during the period from October to November 2022.MethodsThe sample selection process employed a combination of cluster sampling and random sampling, resulting in a total of 377 viable samples encompassing choking-susceptible athletes who frequently grapple with state-trait anxiety and demonstrate performance deviations. The data analysis was executed utilizing AMOS v.26.ResultsThe results indicate a negative association between mindfulness and perceived stress (standardized coefficient = −0.224, p &lt; 0.001), resilience and perceived stress (standardized coefficient = −0.237, p &lt; 0.001), as well as perceived stress and state-trait anxiety (standardized coefficient = 0.510, p &lt; 0.001). The positive impact of mindfulness on state-trait anxiety is mediated by resilience and perceived stress (standardized indirect effect = 0.237, p &lt; 0.001). The explanatory power of this study is R2 = 0.35.DiscussionDrawing from these substantial findings, a key recommendation is to implement mindfulness training programs for athletes prone to choking. This proactive measure, facilitated by sports departments, clubs, and coaches, could potentially alleviate state-trait anxiety, enhancing athletes’ mental well-being and optimizing their performance outcomes during competitions.
The prevalence of major depression and generalized anxiety disorder in patients with multiple sclerosis in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional multicentered study
Authors: Alswat Anas M. , Altirkistani Bsaim A. , Alserihi Anas R. , Baeshen Osama K. , Alrushid Eythar S. , Alkhudair Joud , Aldbas Abdulaziz A. , Wadaan Osama M. , Alsaleh Ahmad , Al Malik Yaser M. , Abulaban Ahmad A. , Makkawi Seraj 
Published: August 2023

BackgroundMultiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic, progressive neurodegeneration of the central nervous system (CNS), and it is the most common inflammatory neurological disease affecting young adults. Given the chronic, progressive nature of the disease, psychiatric disorders are more prevalent among these patients, as reported in the literature; however, data in Saudi Arabia are limited. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of major depression and generalized anxiety disorder in patients with MS and their association with different patient demographics.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional, multicentered study that included adult patients with MS from 30 June 2021 to 30 June 2022. Participants were interviewed in person and asked to complete a survey that included general demographics, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaire. Other variables related to the patients' conditions, such as MS type and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score, were collected from the patient's electronic records. Descriptive statistics were performed, and associations were made using the chi-square, Fisher's exact, and analysis of variance tests, as appropriate.ResultsA total of 192 participants were included in this study. Based on a cutoff score of &gt;10 on the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scales, the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder was 26.1% (50), with the majority of participants having minimal anxiety (40%); meanwhile, the prevalence of major depression was 42.7% (n = 82), and most of them had mild depression (30%). Female participants scored significantly higher compared to men on the GAD-7 scale (p = 0.0376), but not on the PHQ-9 scale (p = 0.1134). In addition, no statistically significant association was detected between functional disability (EDSS score) and prevalence of anxiety and depression.ConclusionThis study demonstrated a high prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder and major depression among patients with MS compared with that in the general population, with women being more affected. As these comorbid disorders could negatively affect the disease course, screening is of paramount significance.
Gender differences in the association between anxiety symptoms and thyroid hormones in young patients with first-episode and drug naïve major depressive disorder
Authors: Zhao Ying , Liu Jia Cheng , Yu Feng , Yang Li Ying , Kang Chuan Yi , Yan Li Juan , Liu Si Tong , Zhao Na , Wang Xiao Hong , Zhang Xiang Yang 
Published: August 2023

ObjectiveGender differences are prevalent in major depressive disorder (MDD), but the gender differences in the relationship between comorbid anxiety and thyroid hormones in young first-episode and drug-naive (FEND) MDD patients are unknown.MethodsA total of 1,289 young outpatients with FEDN MDD were recruited. Demographic and clinical data were collected for each patient. The patient’s blood glucose, blood pressure, thyroid hormone, and thyroid antibody levels were measured. The Hamilton depression scale (HAMD), Hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA), and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) were used to assess patients’ depression, anxiety, and positive symptoms, respectively.ResultsThe prevalence of comorbid anxiety disorders was 80.4 and 79.4% in male and female MDD patients, respectively. Patients with anxiety had higher HAMD and PANSS scores, higher serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), anti-thyroglobulin antibody (A-TG), and thyroid peroxidase antibody (A-TPO) levels, higher blood glucose and blood pressure levels, and more patients with psychotic symptoms and suicide attempts. Male patients were younger and had a younger age of onset. Logistic regression analysis showed that HAMD score and comorbid suicide attempts were significant predictors of anxiety symptoms in both males and females, whereas A-TG predicted anxiety symptoms in female patients only. Limitations: No causal relationship could be drawn due to the cross-sectional design.ConclusionThis study showed gender differences in factors associated with anxiety symptoms in patients with MDD. Some factors were associated with anxiety symptoms in both male and female patients, while A-TG was only associated with anxiety symptoms in female patients.
Health literacy in patients with pulmonary embolism: development and validation of the HeLP (Health Literacy in Pulmonary Embolism)-Questionnaire
Authors: Fischer Simone , Kalch Anja , Küchler Constanze , Albani Aliscia Rebecca , Bilandzic Helena , Horenkamp-Sonntag Dirk , Berghaus Thomas M. , Meisinger Christine , Kirchberger Inge 
Published: August 2023

BackgroundPulmonary embolism (PE) is a common cardiovascular disease and health literacy is necessary to deal with its consequences after the acute event. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a new questionnaire to measure PE-specific health literacy.MethodsA mixed-methods design with qualitative and quantitative elements was used in the development process. A literature review about health literacy concepts and instruments and interviews with patients with PE and clinicians were conducted. Quantitative analyses included factor analyses, item response theory with a graded partial credit model, and reliability analyses in different test and validation samples. Furthermore, convergent and known-groups validity and responsiveness were assessed.ResultsThe qualitative results supported a concept of PE-related health literacy with four main topics: dealing with PE-related health information, disease management, health-related selfcare, and social support. An initial item pool of 91 items was developed. Further interviews and an online survey with patients with PE (n = 1,013) were used to reduce the number of items and to confirm structural validity. Confirmatory factor analyses in the final evaluation study with patients with PE (n = 238) indicated a good model fit of the four-factor structure. The Health Literacy in Pulmonary Embolism (HeLP)-Questionnaire showed good reliability (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.82 to 0.90). All four subscales were responsive toward receiving a brochure with PE-related health information.ConclusionThe newly developed German HeLP Questionnaire comprises 23 items in four domains and showed good psychometric properties. Further evaluation of the questionnaire in different samples of patients with PE is needed.
Coinfection and superinfection in ICU critically ill patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia and influenza pneumonia: are the pictures different?
Authors: Chen Ziying , Zhan Qingyuan , Huang Linna , Wang Chen 
Published: August 2023

BackgroundSimilar to influenza, coinfections and superinfections are common and might result in poor prognosis. Our study aimed to compare the characteristics and risks of coinfections and superinfections in severe COVID-19 and influenza virus pneumonia.MethodsThe data of patients with COVID-19 and influenza admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) were retrospectively analyzed. The primary outcome was to describe the prevalence and pathogenic distribution of coinfections/ICU-acquired superinfections in the study population. The secondary outcome was to evaluate the independent risk factors for coinfections/ICU-acquired superinfections at ICU admission. Multivariate analysis of survivors and non-survivors was performed to investigate whether coinfections/ICU-acquired superinfections was an independent prognostic factor.ResultsIn the COVID-19 (n = 123) and influenza (n = 145) cohorts, the incidence of coinfections/ICU-acquired superinfections was 33.3%/43.9 and 35.2%/52.4%, respectively. The most common bacteria identified in coinfection cases were Enterococcus faecium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii (COVID-19 cohort) and A. baumannii, P. aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae (influenza cohort). A significant higher proportion of coinfection events was sustained by Aspergillus spp. [(22/123, 17.9% in COVID-19) and (18/145, 12.4% in influenza)]. The COVID-19 group had more cases of ICU-acquired A. baumannii, Corynebacterium striatum and K. pneumoniae. A. baumannii, P. aeruginosa, and K. pneumoniae were the three most prevalent pathogens in the influenza cases with ICU-acquired superinfections. Patients with APACHE II ≥18, CD8+ T cells ≤90/μL, and 50 &lt; age ≤ 70 years were more susceptible to coinfections; while those with CD8+ T cells ≤90/μL, CRP ≥120 mg/L, IL-8 ≥ 20 pg./mL, blood glucose ≥10 mmol/L, hypertension, and smoking might had a higher risk of ICU-acquired superinfections in the COVID-19 group. ICU-acquired superinfection, corticosteroid administration for COVID-19 treatment before ICU admission, and SOFA score ≥ 7 were independent prognostic factors in patients with COVID-19.ConclusionPatients with COVID-19 or influenza had a high incidence of coinfections and ICU-acquired superinfections. The represent agents of coinfection in ICU patients were different from those in the general ward. These high-risk patients should be closely monitored and empirically treated with effective antibiotics according to the pathogen.
From research to daily clinical practice: implementation of orthogeriatric co-management in the trauma ward
Authors: Janssens Sigrid , Deschodt Mieke , Dejaeger Marian , Fagard Katleen , Cerulus Marie , Cosyns Heidi , Flamaing Johan , Herteleer Michiel , Sermon An 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionEvidence strongly suggests that orthogeriatric co-management improves patient outcomes in frail older patients with a fracture, but evidence regarding how to implement this model of care in daily clinical practice is scarce. In this paper, we first describe the implementation process and selection of implementation strategies for an orthogeriatric co-management program in the traumatology ward of the University Hospitals Leuven in Belgium. Second, we report the results of a multi-method feasibility study. This study (1) measures the fidelity towards the program's core components, (2) quantifies the perceived feasibility and acceptability by the healthcare professionals, and (3) defines implementation determinants.MethodsImplementation strategies were operationalized based on the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) guidelines. In the feasibility study, fidelity towards the core components of the program was measured in a group of 15 patients aged 75 years and over by using electronic health records. Feasibility and acceptability as perceived by the involved healthcare professionals was measured using a 15-question survey with a 5-point Likert scale. Implementation determinants were mapped thematically based on seven focus group discussions and two semi-structured interviews by focusing on the healthcare professionals' experiences.ResultsWe observed low fidelity towards completion of a screening questionnaire to map the premorbid situation (13%), but high fidelity towards the other program core components: multidimensional evaluation (100%), development of an individual care plan (100%), and systematic follow-up (80%). Of the 50 survey respondents, 94% accepted the program and 62% perceived it as feasible. Important implementation determinants were feasibility, awareness and familiarity, and improved communication between healthcare professionals that positively influenced program adherence.ConclusionsFidelity, acceptability, and feasibility of an orthogeriatric co-management program were high as a result of an iterative process of selecting implementation strategies with intensive stakeholder involvement from the beginning.Clinical trial registration[https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN20491828], International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) Registry: [ISRCTN20491828]. Registered on October 11, 2021.
Investigation of risk factors for introduction of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 infection among commercial turkey operations in the United States, 2022: a case-control study
Authors: Patyk Kelly A. , Fields Victoria L. , Beam Andrea L. , Branan Matthew A. , McGuigan Rachel E. , Green Alice , Torchetti Mia K. , Lantz Kristina , Freifeld Alexis , Marshall Katherine , Delgado Amy H. 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionThe 2022–2023 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 outbreak in the United States (U.S.) is the largest and most costly animal health event in U.S. history. Approximately 70% of commercial farms affected during this outbreak have been turkey farms.MethodsWe conducted a case-control study to identify potential risk factors for introduction of HPAI virus onto commercial meat turkey operations. Data were collected from 66 case farms and 59 control farms in 12 states. Univariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to compare management and biosecurity factors on case and control farms.ResultsFactors associated with increased risk of infection included being in an existing control zone, having both brooders and growers, having toms, seeing wild waterfowl or shorebirds in the closest field, and using rendering for dead bird disposal. Protective factors included having a restroom facility, including portable, available to crews that visit the farm and workers having access and using a shower at least some of the time when entering a specified barn.DiscussionStudy results provide a better understanding of risk factors for HPAI infection and can be used to inform prevention and control measures for HPAI on U.S. turkey farms.