bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Integration of miRNA dynamics and drought tolerant QTLs in rice reveals the role of miR2919 in drought stress response
Authors: Kumar Deepesh , Ramkumar M. K. , Dutta Bipratip , Kumar Ajay , Pandey Rakesh , Jain Pradeep Kumar , Gaikwad Kishor , Mishra Dwijesh C. , Chaturvedi K. K. , Rai Anil , Solanke Amolkumar U. , Sevanthi Amitha Mithra 
Published: September 2023

AbstractTo combat drought stress in rice, a major threat to global food security, three major quantitative trait loci for ‘yield under drought stress’ (qDTYs) were successfully exploited in the last decade. However, their molecular basis still remains unknown. To understand the role of secondary regulation by miRNA in drought stress response and their relation, if any, with the three qDTYs, the miRNA dynamics under drought stress was studied at booting stage in two drought tolerant (Sahbaghi Dhan and Vandana) and one drought sensitive (IR 20) cultivars. In total, 53 known and 40 novel differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs were identified. The primary drought responsive miRNAs were Osa-MIR2919, Osa-MIR3979, Osa-MIR159f, Osa-MIR156k, Osa-MIR528, Osa-MIR530, Osa-MIR2091, Osa-MIR531a, Osa-MIR531b as well as three novel ones. Sixty-one target genes that corresponded to 11 known and 4 novel DE miRNAs were found to be co-localized with the three qDTYs, out of the 1746 target genes identified. We could validate miRNA-mRNA expression under drought for nine known and three novel miRNAs in eight different rice genotypes showing varying degree of tolerance. From our study, Osa-MIR2919, Osa-MIR3979, Osa-MIR528, Osa-MIR2091-5p and Chr01_11911S14Astr and their target genes LOC_Os01g72000, LOC_Os01g66890, LOC_Os01g57990, LOC_Os01g56780, LOC_Os01g72834, LOC_Os01g61880 and LOC_Os01g72780 were identified as the most promising candidates for drought tolerance at booting stage. Of these, Osa-MIR2919 with 19 target genes in the qDTYs is being reported for the first time. It acts as a negative regulator of drought stress tolerance by modulating the cytokinin and brassinosteroid signalling pathway.
The influence of muscle performance and fatigue on prognosis in patients with compensated liver disease
Authors: Ekerfors Ulrika , Simrén Magnus , Marschall Hanns-Ulrich , Demir Daghan , Josefsson Axel 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Poor muscle function is associated with a negative prognosis in advanced liver disease but the impact in compensated chronic liver disease is unknown. Similar prognostic uncertainty applies to fatigue. We aimed to assess the prognostic value of muscle performance and fatigue in a cohort of patients with compensated chronic liver disease.

Methods
We followed 241 patients with compensated chronic liver disease included in a study between 2010 and 2014. Subjects were 52 ± 15 years (mean ± SD; 134 females). All subjects performed four muscle function tests: “Timed Up and Go” test, walking speed, handgrip strength, and standing heel-rises. Fatigue was evaluated by fatigue impact scale. Follow up data was acquired through hospital records and registries.

Results
During follow up of 6.75 ± 1.4 years, 13 patients died (5.5%) and 11 (4.5%) patients underwent liver transplantation. A timed up and go over 10 s was not significantly associated with a lower survival (Kaplan-Meier, log rank test p = 0.132), or with transplant free survival (p = 0.543), Fig. 3. It was also not specifically associated with liver related causes of death (p = 0.597). The other physical functioning tests and fatigue were not significantly associated with mortality or transplant-free survival (p > 0.05 for all) except for maximal walking speed (2.2 vs. 1.9 m/s, p = 0.007).

Conclusions
Our study suggests that muscle function and fatigue are not key prognostic factors in compensated chronic liver disease. However, further confirmation in future studies is needed.
Is empiric proton pump inhibition in patients with symptoms of extraesophageal gastroesophageal reflux justified?
Authors: Fossmark Reidar , Ness-Jensen Eivind , Sørdal Øystein 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
The prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has had a marked increase in Western countries with a paralleling interest in extraesophageal (EE) manifestations of GERD, including laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). There are considerable differences in clinical practice between gastroenterologists, otolaryngologists and pulmonologists.

Methods
In this narrative review we address some of these controversies concerning EE manifestations of GERD and LPR.

Results
It is disputed whether there is causal relationship between reflux and the numerous symptoms and conditions suggested to be EE manifestations of GERD. Similarly, the pathophysiology is uncertain and there are disagreements concerning diagnostic criteria. Consequently, it is challenging to provide evidence-based treatment recommendations. A significant number of patients are given a trial course with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) for several months before symptoms are evaluated. In randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses of RCTs PPI treatment does not seem to be advantageous over placebo, and the evidence supporting that patients without verified GERD have any benefit of PPI treatment is negligible. There is a large increase in both over the counter and prescribed PPI use in several countries and a significant proportion of this use is without any symptomatic benefit for the patients. Whereas short-term treatment has few side effects, there is concern about side-effects after long-term use. Although empiric PPI treatment for suspected EE manifestations of GERD instead of prior esophageal 24-hour pH and impedance monitoring is included in several guidelines by various societies, this practice contributes to overtreatment with PPI.

Conclusion
We argue that the current knowledge suggests that diagnostic testing with pH and impedance monitoring rather than empiric PPI treatment should be chosen in a higher proportion of patients presenting with symptoms possibly attributable to EE reflux.
Immune responses of patients on maintenance hemodialysis after infection by SARS-CoV-2: a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Bacharaki Dimitra , Karagiannis Minas , Giannakopoulos Panagiotis , Papachristou Evangelos , Divanis Dimitrios , Sardeli Aggeliki , Petrou Dimitra , Nikolopoulos Petros , Bratsiakou Adamantia , Zoi Vassiliki , Piliouras Nikitas , Damoraki Georgia , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Goumenos Dimitrios , Giamarellos-Bourboulis Evangelos J. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Immune dysregulation in patients with acute COVID-19 under chronic hemodialysis (CHD) is fully not elucidated. The changes of mononuclear counts and mediators before and after HD and associations with final outcome were studied.

Method
In this prospective study, hospitalized patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19 under CHD and matched comparators under HD were analyzed for their absolute counts of lymphoid cells and circulating inflammatory mediators. Blood samples were collected before start and at the end of the first HD session; dialysate samples were also collected.

Result
Fifty-nine patients with acute COVID-19 under CHD and 20 uninfected comparators under CHD were enrolled. Circulating concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), interleukin (IL)-10, interferon-γ and platelet-derived growth factor-A were increased in patients. Concentrations of mediators did not differ before and after HD. Significant decreases of CD4-lymphocytes and CD19-lymphocytes were found in patients. The decrease of the expression of HLA-DR on CD14-monocytes was associated with unfavorable outcome (defined as WHO-CPS 6 or more by day 28); increased counts of CD19-lymphocytes were associated with better outcomes.

Conclusion
Patients under CHD develop an inflammatory reaction to SARS-CoV-2 characterized by increase of inflammatory mediators, decrease of circulating T-lymphocytes and decrease of the expression of HLA-DR on CD14-monocytes.
The effects of a Journey of the Brave Counseling Program on anxiety, well-being, and life adjustment in Taiwanese children
Authors: Tien Hsiu-Lan Shelley , Su Yi-Ning , Zhang Aizi , Kaichi Isana , Koshiba Takako , Okawa Sho , Urao Yuko , Shimizu Eiji 
Published: September 2023

AbstractThe purposes of the current study are two-fold. Study 1 aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Spence Children’s Anxiety Scale (SCAS) in a Taiwanese sample. Study 2 aimed to explore the immediate and follow-up effects of Journey of the Brave Counseling Program (JBCP) on children’s’ anxiety, well-being, and life adjustment. A review and suggestions were provided for future research and practitioners in educational and counseling fields as reference. In Study 1, the pilot study included 150 to 200 children between ages 11 and 12 in Taoyuan City. In Study 2, we conducted a pretest-posttest nonequivalent groups quasi-experimental design. The participants in this stage were 16 children in an elementary school in Taoyuan City, between ages 11 and 12. After obtaining consent forms from the participants’ guardians, we randomly assigned these participants to an experimental group (N = 8) and a control group (N = 8). The experimental group received a 40-minute JBCP session weekly for ten weeks. The control group received a 40-minute career exploration small group counseling weekly for ten weeks. We administered the SCAS, Psychological Well-Being Scale, and School Life Adjustment Scale in the pretest, posttest, and follow-up test to measure change of anxiety, well-being, and life adjustment of the participants. In addition, the current study implemented some qualitative data, such as group progress notes, group member feedback questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews with participants’ homeroom teachers as supplementary data to clarify the effects of the JBCP. In Study 1, we found that the SCAS had a good validity and reliability for Taiwanese children. The results of Study 2 indicated that the JBCP had immediate and follow-up effects on the separation anxiety in the experimental group. With the pretest impact eliminated, the immediate and follow-up effects on overall anxiety in the experimental group were better than those on the control group. However, even though the immediate and follow-up effects of the JBCP on the experimental group were better than the control group but were not significant. Besides, the group member feedback questionnaires and participants’ homeroom teachers all indicated that the experimental group participants had positive attitude toward the JBCP, and they also positively improved their emotions and interpersonal relationships with others.
CASP3 gene expression and the role of caspase 3 in the pathogenesis of depressive disorders
Authors: Bliźniewska-Kowalska Katarzyna , Gałecki Piotr , Szemraj Janusz , Su Kuan-Pin , Chang Jane Pei-Chen , Gałecka Małgorzata 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
The aim of our study was to evaluate the expression of the CASP3 gene at both mRNA and protein levels in patients with depressive disorders and to determine the impact of caspase 3 in the pathogenesis of depression;

Methods
A total of 290 subjects, including 190 depressed patients and 100 healthy controls, participated in the study. Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected, and the severity of depressive symptoms was assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Venous blood was collected and gene expression was evaluated using RT-PCR and ELISA at the mRNA and protein levels, respectively;

Results
The expression of the CASP3 gene was significantly lower in depressed patients compared to healthy controls at both the mRNA and protein levels. Additionally, a positive correlation was observed between CASP3 gene expression and disease duration as well as the number of depressive episodes;

Conclusions
Further studies are needed to investigate the role of caspase 3 in depressive disorders.
Application of clinical and CT imaging features in the evaluation of disease progression in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Wu Guobin , Zhu Yunya , Qiu Xingting , Yuan Xiaoliang , Mi Xiaojing , Zhou Rong 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
The Corona Virus Disease 2019(COVID-19) pandemic has strained healthcare systems worldwide, necessitating the early prediction of patients requiring critical care. This study aimed to analyze the laboratory examination indicators, CT features, and prognostic risk factors in COVID-19 patients.

Methods
A retrospective study was conducted on 90 COVID-19 patients at the First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University between December 17, 2022, and March 17, 2023. Clinical data, laboratory examination results, and computed tomography (CT) imaging data were collected. Logistic multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors, and the predictive ability of each risk factor was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results
Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that comorbid diabetes (odds ratio [OR] = 526.875, 95%CI = 1.384-1960.84, P = 0.053), lymphocyte count reduction (OR = 8.773, 95%CI = 1.432–53.584, P = 0.064), elevated D-dimer level (OR = 362.426, 95%CI = 1.228-984.995, P = 0.023), and involvement of five lung lobes (OR = 0.926, 95%CI = 0.026–0.686, P = 0.025) were risk factors for progression to severe COVID-19. ROC curve analysis showed the highest predictive value for 5 lung lobes (AUC = 0.782). Oxygen saturation was positively correlated with normally aerated lung volume and the proportion of normally aerated lung volume (P < 0.05).

Conclusions
The study demonstrated that comorbid diabetes, lymphocyte count reduction, elevated D-dimer levels, and involvement of the five lung lobes are significant risk factors for severe COVID-19. In CT lung volume quantification, normal aerated lung volume and the proportion of normal aerated lung volume correlated with blood oxygen saturation.
Does mild flexion of the femoral prosthesis in total knee arthroplasty result in better early postoperative outcomes?
Authors: Zhou Hang , Wu Ze-Rui , Chen Xiang-Yang , Zhang Le-Shu , Zhang Jin-Cheng , Hidig Sakarie Mustafe , Feng Shuo , Yang Zhi 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
The purpose of this study was to measure the femoral prosthesis flexion angle (FPFA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using three-dimensional reconstruction, and to assess the differences in early clinical efficacy between patients with different degrees of flexion.

Methods
We conducted a prospective cohort study. From June 2019 to May 2021, 113 patients admitted for TKA due to osteoarthritis of the knee were selected. The patients’ postoperative knee joints were reconstructed in three dimensions according to postoperative three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) scans. The FPFA was measured, and the patients were divided into 4 groups: anterior extension group (FPFA < 0°), mildly flexed group (0° ≤ FPFA < 3°), moderately flexed group (3° ≤ FPFA < 6°) and excessively flexed group (6° ≤ FPFA). The differences in the Knee Society Score (KSS), knee Range of Motion (ROM), and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were measured and compared between the four groups at each postoperative time point.

Results
Postoperative KSS, ROM, and VAS were significantly improved in all groups compared to the preoperative period. At 1 year postoperatively, the ROM was significantly greater in the mildly flexed group (123.46 ± 6.51°) than in the anterior extension group (116.93 ± 8.05°) and the excessively flexed group (118.76 ± 8.20°) (P < 0.05). The KSS was significantly higher in the mildly flexed group (162.68 ± 12.79) than in the other groups at 6 months postoperatively (P < 0.05). The higher KSS (174.17 ± 11.84) in the mildly flexed group was maintained until 1 year postoperatively, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). No significant difference in VAS scores was observed between groups at each time point.

Conclusions
A femoral prosthesis flexion angle of 0–3° significantly improved postoperative knee mobility, and patients could obtain better Knee Society Scores after surgery, which facilitated the postoperative recovery of knee function.

Trial registration
ChiCTR2100051502, 2021/09/24.
Incidental parathyroidectomy during total thyroidectomy and functional parathyroid preservation: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Melot Charlotte , Deniziaut Gabrielle , Menegaux Fabrice , Chereau Nathalie 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
The published rate of incidental parathyroidectomy (IP) during thyroid surgery varies between 5.8% and 29%. The risk factors and clinical significance of postoperative transient hypocalcemia and permanent hypoparathyroidism are still debated. The aims of this study were to assess the clinical relevance of avoidable IP for transient hypocalcemia and permanent hypoparathyroidism, and to describe the risk factors for IP.

Methods
This retrospective cohort study included 1,537 patients who had a one-step total thyroidectomy in a high-volume endocrine surgery center between 2018 and 2019. Pathology reports were reviewed for incidentally removed parathyroid glands. Intrathyroidal parathyroid glands were excluded from the study. Demographic characteristics, potential risk factors, and postoperative calcium and PTH levels were compared between IP and control groups.

Results
Avoidable IP occurred in 234 (15.2%) patients. Patients with IP had a higher risk of transient hypocalcemia (17.9% vs. 11.5%, p = 0.006; odds ratio [OR] 1.68, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]1.16–2.45) and permanent hypoparathyroidism (4.7% vs. 1.6%, p = 0.002; OR 3.01, 95% CI 1.29–6.63) than patients without IP. Multivariate analysis showed that central lymph node dissection (CLND) and incidental removal of thymus tissue were independent risk factors for IP (OR 4.83, 95% CI 2.71–8.86, p < 0.001 and OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.02–2.82, p = 0.038).

Conclusions
Patients with IP were more likely to develop transient hypocalcemia and permanent hypoparathyroidism, indicating the clinical significance of avoidable IP for patients and the need for raising awareness among surgeons. Patients undergoing CLND are at a higher risk for IP, and should be adequately informed and treated. Any removal of thymus tissue should be avoided during CLND.
Evaluation of removal efficiency of capping materials used in pulp revascularization in vitro
Authors: Cebeci Gözde Yildiz , Almaz Merve Erkmen , Orhan Ekim Onur , Beklen Arzu 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to evaluate the removal efficiency of different capping materials used in pulp revascularization (PR) in a failure scenario.

Methods
The apices of freshly extracted 30 maxillary incisors were cut to mimic the immature teeth; then, root canals were shaped up to #6 Peeso reamers. The regeneration steps of the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) were followed to simulate PR treatment in vitro. The canals were dressed with the Ciprofloxacin and Metronidazole medicament mixture for 2 weeks. Then capping material groups were created: BioDentine (BD), ProRootMTA (PMTA), and RetroMTA (RMTA) (n = 10). The sealed specimens were stored for 2 weeks at 37 ºC in phosphate-buffered saline then the samples were examined by micro-computed tomography (µ-CT) analysis. Set capping materials were retrieved using a specific cement removal kit by a single blind operator. The residue materials were examined again by µCT. Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests sought the significance for residue volumes. One-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests with the Bonferroni corrections sought significance for the duration (p = 0.05).

Results
In the first examined µCT data, the mean (SD) capping material volumes of the PMTA, BD, and RMTA were 6.447 µm3 (1.086), 8.771 µm3 (0.491), and 8.114 µm3 (2.447), respectively.
In the last examined µCT data, the median (IQR) residual volumes of the PMTA, BD, and RMTA were 0.051 µm3 (0.1), 0.313 µm3 (0.5), and 0.124 µm3 (0.1), respectively. A significant difference was found between BD and PMTA in the residual volumes (p < 0.05).
The mean (SD) durations of the retrieving procedures of PMTA, BD, and RMTA were 19.83 min (2.34), 19.24 (3.60), and 22.04 (1.68), respectively (p = 0.063).

Conclusions
Within the limitations of the presented study, it was concluded that the capping materials were largely removed from the root canals using a non-invasive approach. Nevertheless, this duration of the retrieving could be described as long.
Facilitators and barriers to optimal home blood pressure management in patients with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in a tertiary care facility in Abuja, Nigeria: a qualitative research study
Authors: Mahmoud Zainab , Orji Adaego A. , Okoye Chukwuebuka F. , Ameh Friday O. , Jamro-Comer Erica , Isah Aliyu , Ekele Bissallah , Akaba Godwin , Ojji Dike B. , Huffman Mark D. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Nigeria has one of the highest burdens of maternal deaths globally, and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are the leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality in the country. There is a significant implementation gap in utilizing evidence-based practices for the management of HDP in Nigeria. This study evaluated facilitators and barriers to implementing a home blood pressure monitoring program to improve management of HDP.

Methods
From August 2022 to September 2022, we conducted 15 semi-structured, key informant interviews and 4 focus group discussions among patients, health care workers, and administrators at University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH), a tertiary care centre in Nigeria. The study used the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to assess five domains: individual characteristics, inner and outer settings, intervention characteristics, and process of implementation. Audio files were transcribed, and data were analysed using a combination of inductive and deductive approaches. We also conducted 32 brief surveys on the participants to assess acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of a blood pressure monitoring program.

Results
The study sample consisted of healthcare workers (n=22) including specialists in cardiology, obstetrics and gynaecology, maternal-foetal medicine, nurses/midwives and resident doctors as well as patients (n=10). Mean (SD) age was 39.5 (10.9), and 78% were female. Participants identified facilitators including the perceived simplicity of home blood pressure monitoring program, high burden of HDP, and availability of a multi-disciplinary team of healthcare professionals with expertise in HDP management. Barriers identified were cost, limited knowledge of HDP amongst patients, limited transportation networks, inconsistent management protocols, and inadequate manpower and facilities. Survey results indicated that between 81% and 88% of participants reported that a blood pressure monitoring program would be acceptable, 56%-72% reported that it would be appropriate, and 47%-69% reported that it would be feasible.

Conclusion
This study identified facilitators and barriers while highlighting key implementation strategies to leverage and effectively address these respectively to enable successful implementation of a home blood pressure monitoring program. It also demonstrated that a home blood pressure monitoring program was considered acceptable, appropriate and feasible among respondents interviewed at UATH.