bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Antibacterial activity of exopolysaccharide produced by bee gut-resident Enterococcus sp. BE11 against marine fish pathogens
Authors: Zaghloul Eman H. , Ibrahim Mohamed I. A. , Zaghloul Heba A. H. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
In recent years, the demand for innovative antimicrobial agents has grown, considering the growing problem of antibiotic resistance in aquaculture. Adult Apis mellifera honeybees’ gut represents an outstanding habitat to isolate novel lactic acid bacteria (LAB) able to produce prominent antimicrobial agents.

Methods
In the current study, twelve LAB were isolated and purified from the gut of adult Apis mellifera. The isolates were screened for exopolysaccharide (EPS) production. The most promising isolate BE11 was identified biochemically and molecularly using 16 S rRNA gene sequence analysis as Enterococcus sp. BE11 was used for the mass production of EPS. The partially purified BE11-EPS features were disclosed by its physicochemical characterization. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity of BE11 cell free supernatant (CFS) and its EPS was investigated against some fish pathogens namely, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Streptococcus agalactiae, Aeromonas hydrophila, Vibrio sp. and Staphylococcus epidermidis using well-cut diffusion method.

Results
The physicochemical characterization of BE11-EPS revealed that the total carbohydrate content was estimated to be ~ 87%. FTIR and NMR analysis ascertained the presence of galactose and glucose residues in the EPS backbone. Moreover, the GC-MS analysis verified the heterogeneous nature of the produced BE11-EPS made up of different monosaccharide moieties: galactose, rhamnose, glucose, arabinose sugar derivatives, and glucuronic acid. BE11 CFS and its EPS showed promising antimicrobial activity against tested pathogens as the inhibition zone diameters (cm) ranged from 1.3 to 1.7 and 1.2–1.8, respectively.

Conclusion
The bee gut-resident Enterococcus sp. BE11, CFS, and EPS were found to be promising antimicrobial agents against fish pathogens and biofilm producers affecting aquaculture. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to purify and make a chemical profile of an EPS produced by a member of the bee gut microbiota as a potential inhibitor for fish pathogens.
Comparison of frontal QRS-T angle of patients with nasal septal deviation with healthy controls
Authors: Kapıcı Olga Bayar , Abuş Sabri , Ayhan Selçuk , Koparal Mehtap , Kaya Hakan 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
This study compares frontal QRS-T angle (fQRS-T) in electrocardiogram (ECG) examinations of people with nasal septal deviation (NSD) with healthy controls (HC).

Methods
Eighty-two patients whom a radiologist with paranasal computed tomography definitively diagnosed with NSD were included in the study. 101 individuals without NSD were selected as HC.

Results
Compared to the HC group, the fQRS-T in was considerably wider in patients with NSD (p < .001). According to Spearman correlation analysis, fQRS-T and NSD angle, and platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were significantly correlated (p = .021, p < .001, and p = .003, respectively). In linear regression analysis where the fQRS-T was taken as a dependent variable, NSD angle and PLR predicted the fQRS-T significantly and positively (F(5.76) = 8.451, R2 = 0.357, Adjusted R2 = 0.315 and p < .001).

Conclusion
In this study, fQRS-T was significantly higher in patients with NSD. In future studies, fQRS-T can be compared before and after septoplasty in NSD patients.
Social isolation and loneliness among older adults living in rural areas during the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review
Authors: Pickering John , Wister Andrew V. , O’Dea Eireann , Chaudhury Habib 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
The causes and consequences of social isolation and loneliness of older people living in rural contexts during the COVID-19 pandemic were systematically reviewed to describe patterns, causes and consequences.

Methods
Using the Arksey and O’Malley (2005) scoping review method, searches were conducted between March and December 2022, 1013 articles were screened and 29 were identified for data extraction.

Results
Findings were summarized using thematic analysis separated into four major themes: prevalence of social isolation and loneliness; rural-only research; comparative urban-rural research; and technological and other interventions. Core factors for each of these themes describe the experiences of older people during the COVID-19 pandemic and related lockdowns. We observed that there are interrelationships and some contradictory findings among the themes.

Conclusions
Social isolation and loneliness are associated with a wide variety of health problems and challenges, highlighting the need for further research. This scoping review systematically identified several important insights into existing knowledge from the experiences of older people living in rural areas during the COVID-19 pandemic, while pointing to pressing knowledge and policy gaps that can be addressed in future research.
A network analysis of nutritional markers and maternal perinatal mental health in the French EDEN cohort
Authors: Knox Bethany , Galera Cédric , Sutter-Dallay Anne-Laure , Heude Barbara , de Lauzon-Guillain Blandine , van der Waerden Judith 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundPerinatal maternal depression and anxiety are associated with adverse maternal outcomes, and nutrition may play an important role in their emergence. Previous research shows that certain micro and macronutrients found in different dietary patterns may associate with perinatal mood disorders. This study aims to explore relationships between nutrition during pregnancy and perinatal maternal depression and anxiety symptoms using network analyses.MethodsUsing data from the French EDEN mother-child cohort, the sample consisted of 1438 women with available mental health outcomes (CES-D, STAI and EPDS) and nutritional markers collected from food frequency questionnaires. Four networks were constructed to explore the relationships between prenatal nutrient status, dietary patterns, and perinatal mental health, while accounting for important confounders.ResultsThe Healthy dietary pattern was associated with the presence of vital micronutrients, while the Western dietary pattern was consistently associated with poorer intake of specific micronutrients and contained an excess of certain macronutrients. Western dietary pattern and symptoms of postnatal depression were connected by a positive edge in both the macronutrient and micronutrient networks. Lower education levels were associated with higher Western dietary pattern scores, from which a positive edge linked to postnatal depression symptoms in both models.ConclusionsA Western dietary pattern was associated with increased symptoms of postnatal depression in our adjusted network models; The Healthy dietary pattern was associated with essential micronutrients but not with symptoms of depression or anxiety. Perinatal mental health might be impacted by specific dietary patterns in the context of psychosocial and physical stress associated with pregnancy.
Comparing biweekly single-dose actinomycin D with multiday methotrexate therapy for low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (FIGO Score 0–4): study protocol for a prospective, multicentre, randomized trial
Authors: Jiang Fang , Mao Ming-yi , Xiang Yang , Lu Xin , Guan Chong-li , Jiao Lan-zhou , Wan Xi-Run , Feng Feng-Zhi , Ren Tong , Yang Jun-Jun , Zhao Jun 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Single-agent chemotherapy using methotrexate or actinomycin D is the first-line treatment for patients with low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. Various methotrexate-based and actinomycin D-based single-agent regimens can be used. However, there is insufficient evidence to determine the superior regimen. To guide doctors in selecting a single-agent chemotherapy regimen for patients with low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, we will compare two regimens.

Methods
We will conduct a multicentre, randomized, prospective clinical trial. Selected low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia patients (FIGO score 0–4) will be randomized 1:1 to a biweekly single-dose actinomycin D group or a multiday methotrexate therapy group. The actinomycin D group will receive IV pulse actinomycin D (1.25 mg/m2) every 14 days, and the methotrexate group will receive methotrexate (50 mg) intramuscularly on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 (4 doses per cycle) and leucovorin (15 mg) intramuscularly on days 2, 4, 6, and 8. This process will be repeated every 14 days. The primary endpoints will include the complete remission rate by single-agent therapy and the overall complete remission rate. The secondary endpoints will include the duration needed to achieve complete remission after single-agent chemotherapy, number of courses needed to achieve complete remission after single-agent chemotherapy, incidence and severity of adverse effects, effects on menstrual conditions and ovarian function based on the anti-Mullerian hormone level, and patient-reported quality of life.

Discussion
Previous clinical trials comparing biweekly single-dose actinomycin D with multiday methotrexate therapy for treating low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia patients failed to meet the expected case number. Through this multicentre study, the complete remission ratio and efficacy difference between biweekly single-dose actinomycin D and multiday methotrexate therapy will be obtained. This study will also provide the basis for formulating a preferred regimen for treating patients with low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04562558, Registered on 13 September 2020 (Protocol version 2020–9-24, version 1.0).
Comparison of clinical outcomes among cancer patients treated in and out of clinical trials
Authors: Duenas Jose A. Carreno , Sanchez P. Natalia , Bonilla Carlos E. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
It is unknown if participation in a cancer clinical trial confers clinical benefits to patients. There is not enough scientific evidence in this regard and the available publications are scarce and provide ambiguous and limited information.

Objective
Compare overall and progression-free survival and response to treatment among those who met the eligibility criteria and accepted to participate and those who refused to participate in cancer clinical trials.

Methods
An observational cross-sectional study with an analytical component was carried out, which included patients diagnosed with cancer who participated in phase III clinical trials and patients who, being eligible, refused to participate. The patients were cared for at the National Institute of Cancerology in Colombia between 2019 and 2022. Analysis of differences in proportions and means of sociodemographic and clinical variables was included; overall survival and progression-free survival time were described and the survival curves between groups were compared. Variables related to survival were determined using a Cox regression model and Hazard Ratios were calculated.

Results
62 women and 50 men were included. In the women group, we found a statistical association between clinical trial participation and non-serious events adverse and progression. The stable disease and complete response were higher in participants than in refusers. The median progression-free survival for refusers was 7,4 m meantime for participants the median was not reached and 74,1% remained without progression at 28 months. In the men group, we also found a statistical association between clinical trial participation and the occurrence of non-serious events adverse meanwhile there were no significant differences in overall response, progression, and death, even though the proportion of progression was minor in participants 20% vs. refusers 26% respectively. The median survival was not reached for any group, even though in the participants group 55,2% were still alive at month 20 and in the refusers group still alive at 56,8% at month 45. Covariables included for the multivariate Cox regression only age had a statistical association with overall survival in the women’s group and the men group any covariables reached statistical association.

Conclusion
It can be considered that participation in clinical trials could give participants a better response to treatment, without increasing the probability of death and with the probability of decreasing the progression of the disease. Participation in trials could improve the outcomes of clinical response rates, no change in overall survival, and progression-free.
Web-based follow-up tool (ePIPARI) of preterm infants—study protocol for feasibility and performance
Authors: Saarinen Tiina , Ylijoki Milla , Lehtonen Liisa , Munck Petriina , Stolt Suvi , Lapinleimu Helena , Rautava Päivi , Haataja Leena , Setänen Sirkku , Leppänen Marika , Huhtala Mira , Saarinen Katriina , Grönroos Linda , Korja Riikka ,   on behalf of the PIPARI Study group, Ekblad Mikael , Ekblad Satu , Ekholm Eeva , Eurola Annika , Haveri Laura , Helin Minttu , Hirvonen Milka , Jaakkola Jere , Joensuu Eveliina , Karukivi Max , Kero Pentti , Lahti Katri , Lehtonen Tuomo , Lind Annika , Maunu Jonna , Mäkilä Eeva , Määttänen Laura , Niemi Pekka , Nyman Anna , Parkkola Riitta , Ripatti Liisi , Salomäki Susanna , Saunavaara Virva , Sillanpää Matti , Tuomikoski Päivi , Uusitalo Karoliina 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Preterm infants have a risk of health and developmental problems emerging after discharge. This indicates the need for a comprehensive follow-up to enable early identification of these problems. In this paper, we introduce a follow-up tool “ePIPARI – web-based follow-up for preterm infants”. Our future aim is to investigate whether ePIPARI is a feasible tool in the follow-up of preterm infants and whether it can identify children and parents in need of clinical interventions.

Methods
ePIPARI includes eight assessment points (at term age and at 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 18, and 24 months of corrected age) when the child´s health and growth, eating and feeding, neurodevelopment, and parental well-being are evaluated. ePIPARI consists of several widely used, standardized questionnaires, in addition to questions typically presented to parents in clinical follow-up visits. It also provides video guidance and written information about age-appropriate neurodevelopment for the parents.
Parents of children born before 34 weeks of gestation during years 2019–2022 are being invited to participate in the ePIPARI study, in which web-based follow-up with ePIPARI is compared to clinical follow-up. In addition, the parents of children born before 32 weeks of gestation, who reached the corrected age of two years during 2019–2021 were invited to participate for the assessment point of 24 months of ePIPARI. The parents are asked to fill in the online questionnaires two weeks prior to each clinical follow-up visit.

Discussion
The web-based tool, ePIPARI, was developed to acquire a sensitive and specific tool to detect infants and parents in need of further support and clinical interventions. This tool could allow individualized adjustments of the frequency and content of the clinical visits.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.cov, NCT05238168. Registered 11 April 2022 – Retrospectively registered.
Comparison of two novel diagnostic criteria for bronchopulmonary dysplasia in predicting adverse outcomes of preterm infants: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Xin , Lu Yang-Ke , Wu Yan-Yan , Liu Da-Peng , Guo Jing , Li Ming-Chao , Wang YingYuan , Li Rui , Zhang Xiao-Yuan , Kang Wen-Qing 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to compare the predictive value of two diagnostic criteria for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in preterm infants with gestational age (GA) < 32 weeks for death or severe respiratory morbidity at corrected age of 18–24 months.

Methods
In this retrospective cohort study, clinical data from July 2019 to September 2021 were classified by 2018 National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and 2019 Jensen definitions of BPD. Based on the follow-up results, the enrolled population was divided into adverse outcome group and normal outcome group. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were conducted to explore the risk factors of adverse outcomes and evaluate the predictive value of both diagnostic criteria.

Results
Of 451 infants, 141 (31.3%) had adverse outcomes, which increased with increasing severity of BPD. Logistic regression analysis showed only BPD was an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes in preterm infants. ROC analysis revealed that both diagnostic criteria showed similar predictive values (2018 NICHD definition AUC = 0.771 vs. 2019 Jensen definition AUC = 0.770), with specificities of 93.5% and 96.8%, respectively; however, combining them separately with GA or birth weight did not improve their predictive values.

Conclusions
The two novel definitions of BPD demonstrate similar predictive values in predicting death or severe respiratory morbidity at corrected age of 18–24 months, with higher specificity observed in both.
Dry mouth in patients with a life-limiting condition or frailty: a study protocol for two intervention studies and a nested qualitative sub-study (the Dry mOuth Project, DROP)
Authors: van der Meulen Annelot I. , Neis Evelien P. J. G. , de Nijs Ellen J. M. , Coenegracht Bénédicte J. E. G. , Stoppelenburg Arianne , van den Beuken-van Everdingen Marieke H. J. , van der Linden Yvette M. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Despite its prevalent and impactful nature, dry mouth remains an underexposed and undertreated symptom in patients with a life-limiting condition or frailty. The main contributing factors are a lack of awareness and knowledge amongst both healthcare professionals and patients, and a scarcity of effective, evidence-based interventions. In the DRy mOuth Project (DROP), we address these factors by investigating both a non-pharmacological and a pharmacological intervention: a nurse-led patient education program and locally applied pilocarpine.

Methods
This intervention-based research project consists of two parallel studies. The non-pharmacological study is a cluster non-randomized controlled trial in 228 palliative nursing home and hospital patients, investigating the effect of structured use of guidelines and of patient education on dry mouth symptoms. This intervention, a nurse-led patient education program (the Mouth Education Program, MEP), will be compared to care as usual, the control. The pharmacological study is a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial that examines the effect of locally applied pilocarpine drops in 120 patients with dry mouth symptoms. Both studies use the same mixed-methods study design, in which the primary outcome is the clinical response to the intervention at 4 weeks, as measured by a dry mouth severity score (numeric rating scale from 0 to 10). Other outcomes, as measured by questionnaires over a 12-week follow-up period, include durability of the effect, impact on quality of life and, adherence and acceptability of the intervention. In addition, the feasibility and cost-effectiveness are evaluated by means of questionnaires and focus groups with healthcare professionals, and interviews with patients.

Discussion
This study investigates the effectiveness and feasibility of two interventions for dry mouth symptoms in patients with life-limiting conditions or frailty. Due to the large-scale and mixed-method nature of the study, this study will also improve our understanding of dry mouth and its relating factors and of the patients’ and healthcare professionals’ experiences with symptoms, care and guidelines of dry mouth, including any perceived barriers and facilitators.

Trial registration
NCT05964959 & NCT05506137.
Effect of Salvia officinalis scent on postmenopausal women’s sexual function and satisfaction: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Heydarpour Sousan , Sharifipour Foruzan , Heydarpour Fateme 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Introduction
Sexual function is one of the important aspects of quality of life which is often impaired after menopause. Given the side effects of hormone therapy on postmenopausal women, alternative treatments such as aromatherapy have won popularity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of aromatherapy using Salvia officinalis on the sexual function and satisfaction of postmenopausal women.

Methods
This was a double-blind randomized controlled trial conducted on postmenopausal women referring to health centers in Kermanshah, Iran, in 2018. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: Salvia officinalis (n = 32) and control (n = 32). Women in the intervention group received 2 drops of Salvia officinalis essential oil by inhalation twice a day for 5 consecutive days of a week continued for 6 weeks. The control group received almond oil in the same dosage and frequency. Sexual function and satisfaction were evaluated using the Lindberg sexual satisfaction questionnaire and the female sexual function index, respectively before the intervention and 6 weeks after it.

Results
After 6 weeks of intervention, the total mean scores of sexual function (28.8 ± 2.13 vs.17.9 ± 1.59 P < 0.001) and sexual satisfaction (71.53 ± 5.86 vs. 50.44 ± 10.41) were significantly higher in the Salvia officinalis group compared with the control group, respectively.

Conclusion
The findings showed that aromatherapy using Salvia officinalis has a significant effect on improving sexual function and satisfaction in postmenopausal women. Therefore, given the prevalence of sexual disorders in postmenopausal women, aromatherapy using Salvia officinalis is recommended to be used for improving these disorders.

Clinical trial registration
Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials; https://en.irct.ir/user/trial/50212/view (IRCT20160427027633N6), registered (12/08/2020).