bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Associations between handgrip strength and skeletal muscle mass with all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in people with type 2 diabetes: A prospective cohort study of the UK Biobank
Authors: Wei Lingqi , Zeng Jingjing , Fan Menglin , Chen Bo , Li Xiaying , Li Ying , Xu Shaoyong 
Published: August 2023

AbstractAimsTo explore the associations between handgrip strength (HGS) and skeletal muscle mass (SMM) with all‐cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality risk in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients.Materials and MethodsData were obtained from the UK Biobank. Baseline survey was conducted between 2006 and 2010, and followed up for a median of 12.52 years. HGS was measured using dynamometer, and SMM was measured using bioelectrical impedance method. Mortality was available via links to the National Health Service Information Centre. Sex‐specific analyses were conducted.ResultsA total of 13 392 T2DM participants were included, with a mean age of 60.39 years and 52.35% men. During the follow‐up, there were 3006 (22.45%) deaths, including 746 (5.57%) CVD deaths. The risk for all‐cause mortality and CVD mortality among both men and women increased progressively with decreasing HGS quartiles (p trend <.05). A 1 SD decrease in HGS was found to both increase the all‐cause risk (HR: 1.31 [95% CI: 1.24–1.38]) and CVD mortality risk (HR: 1.35 [95% CI: 1.22–1.50]) for men, and all‐cause risk (HR: 1.26 [95% CI: 1.11–1.42]) and CVD mortality risk (HR: 1.43 [95% CI: 1.09–1.89]) for women. There was no statistically significant trend association between SMM/height2 and mortality risk, and the restricted cubic regression splines indicated that SMM/height2 showed a U‐shaped nonlinear relationship (pnonlinear <.05).ConclusionsGrip strength displayed a linear downward trend with mortality risk among T2DM patients, whereas muscle mass showed a U‐shaped relationship. Low grip strength seemed to be a better predictor for mortality compared to low muscle mass.
Safety of tracheostomy during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support: A single‐center experience
Authors: Morosin Marco , Azzu Alessia , Antonopoulos Alexios , Kuhn Timothy , Anandanadesan Rathai , Garfield Benjamin , Aw Tuan‐Chen , Ledot Stephane , Bianchi Paolo 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundSome patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) require prolonged mechanical ventilation. An early tracheostomy strategy while on ECMO has appeared to be beneficial for these patients. This study aims to explore the safety of tracheostomy in ECMO patients.MethodsThis is a retrospective observational single‐center study.ResultsHundred and nine patients underwent tracheostomy (76 percutaneous and 33 surgical) during V‐V ECMO support over an 8‐year period. Patients with a percutaneous tracheostomy showed a significantly shorter ECMO duration [25.5 (17.3–40.1) vs 37.2 (26.5–53.2) days, p = 0.013] and a shorter ECMO‐to‐tracheostomy time [13.3 (8.5–19.7) vs 27.8 (16.3–36.9) days, p < 0.001] compared to those who underwent a surgical approach. There was no difference between the two strategies regarding both major and minor/no bleeding (p = 0.756). There was no difference in survival rate between patients who underwent percutaneous or surgical tracheostomy (p = 0.173). Patients who underwent an early tracheostomy (within 10 days from ECMO insertion) showed a significantly shorter hospital stay (p < 0.001) and a shorter duration of V‐V ECMO support (p < 0.001). Our series includes 24 patients affected by COVID‐19, who did not show significantly higher rates of major bleeding when compared to non‐COVID‐19 patients (p = 0.297). Within the COVID‐19 subgroup, there was no difference in major bleeding rates between surgical and percutaneous approach (p = 1.0).ConclusionsPercutaneous and surgical tracheostomy during ECMO have a similar safety profile in terms of bleeding risk and mortality. Percutaneous tracheostomy may favor a shorter duration of ECMO support and hospital stay and can be considered a safe alternative to surgical tracheostomy, even in COVID‐19 patients, if relevant clinical expertise is available.
Cavity‐nesting birds are limited by nesting habitat in Neotropical agricultural landscapes
Authors: Ke Alison , Cedeño Evaristo , Karubian Jordan , Carrasco Luis , Castillo Fernando , Gonzales Nelson , Karp Daniel S. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractMost studies comparing biodiversity between natural and human‐modified landscapes focus on patterns in species occurrence or abundance, but do not consider how different habitat types meet species' breeding requirements. Organisms that use or nest in tree cavities may be especially threatened by habitat conversion due to the loss of their nesting sites. Although cavity‐nesting bird diversity is highest in the tropics, little is known about how tropical birds use cavities, how agriculture affects their reproductive biology, and how effective nest boxes could be as a conservation strategy in tropical agriculture. Here, we explored how habitat conversion from tropical forests to pasture affects the abundance, nesting habitat availability, and nest success of cavity‐nesting birds in Northwest Ecuador. We conducted bird surveys and measured natural cavity availability and use in forest and agriculture. We also added artificial nest boxes to forest and agriculture to see whether cavity limitation in agriculture would elicit higher use of artificial nest boxes. We found evidence of cavity limitation in agriculture—there were many more natural cavities in forest than in agriculture, as well as more avian use of nest boxes placed in agriculture as compared to forest. Our results suggest that it is important to retain remnant trees in tropical agriculture to provide critical nesting habitat for birds. In addition, adding nest boxes to tropical agricultural systems could be a good conservation strategy for certain species, including insectivores that could provide pest‐control services to farmers.Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Psychotic‐like experiences and adverse life events in young people. Does gender matter?
Authors: Adjorlolo Samuel , Awortwe Victoria , Anum Adote , Huang Keng‐Yen , Mamah Daniel 
Published: August 2023

BackgroundPsychotic‐like experiences (PLEs) and adverse life events (ALEs) are highly prevalent in sub‐Saharan Africa where gendered practices are also common. There is, however, a paucity of data on how the relationship between PLEs and life adversities is influenced by gender. The current study addressed this gap.MethodData were collected from 1886 school‐based young people (1174 females) in Ghana, West Africa using a cross‐sectional survey methodology and analyzed using Chi‐square, independent t‐test, Pearson correlation, and multivariate regression.ResultsThe results showed that victimization experiences, school stress and having a family member with mental illness were significantly associated with PLEs in both males and females. In contrast, substance misuse and experiences of head trauma correlated significantly with PLEs in females only.ConclusionLife adversities constitute major risk factors for PLEs among school‐based young people in Ghana, who could benefit from gender neutral and gender‐sensitive intervention programming to remediate the effects of life adversities on PLEs.
Biomarkers in congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Bacila Irina‐Alexandra , Lawrence Neil R. , Badrinath Surabhi G. , Balagamage Chamila , Krone Nils P. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractMonitoring of hormone replacement therapy represents a major challenge in the management of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). In the absence of clear guidance and standardised monitoring strategies, there is no consensus among clinicians regarding the relevance of various biochemical markers used in practice, leading to wide variability in their application and interpretation. In this review, we summarise the published evidence on biochemical monitoring of CAH. We discuss temporal variations of the most commonly measured biomarkers throughout the day, the interrelationship between different biomarkers, as well as their relationship with different glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid treatment regimens and clinical outcomes. Our review highlights significant heterogeneity across studies in both aims and methodology. However, we identified key messages for the management of patients with CAH. The approach to hormone replacement therapy should be individualised, based on the individual hormonal profile throughout the day in relation to medication. There are limitations to using 17‐hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione and testosterone, and the role of additional biomarkers such 11‐oxygenated androgens which are more disease specific should be further established. Noninvasive monitoring via salivary and urinary steroid measurements is becoming increasingly available and should be considered, especially in the management of children with CAH. Additionally, this review indicates the need for large scale longitudinal studies analysing the interrelation between different monitoring strategies used in clinical practice and health outcomes in children and adults with CAH.
Rehabilitation with implant‐supported overdentures in preteens patients with ectodermal dysplasia: A cohort study
Authors: Montanari Marco , Grande Francesco , Lepidi Luca , Piana Gabriela , Catapano Santo 
Published: August 2023

AbstractIntroductionHypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (HED) patients suffering of oligo‐anodontia require early dental treatment to improve oral functions and reduce social impairment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the skeletal growth, implant and prosthetic survival rate, success, and complications after the rehabilitation with a maxillary denture and an implant‐supported overdenture provided by a sliding bar in case of severe hypodontia/anodontia related to HED.Materials and MethodsThis retrospective cohort study began in 2009. Nine patients over 7 years old with HED and associated oligo‐anodontia who presented at the University of Bologna for dental treatment were included in the study. They were first treated with conventional dentures and then with a maxillary denture and an implant‐supported overdenture with a sliding bar connected to two implants placed in the anterior mandible. The subjects treated were followed for 3–12 years. In each case, orthopanoramic and lateral cephalometric radiographic exam were taken before implant placement and annually after prosthetic load. Vertical and transverse dimensions of the mandible in the symphysis area at implant sites were taken on the lateral cephalometric radiography at the time of implant placement and after 5 years from the prosthetic loading to assess the presence or absence of an anterior mandibular growth. Biologic and mechanical complications were also recorded at every visit.ResultsA mandibular vertical growth under the implant apex, at the implant neck, and a sagittal growth of the symphysis after 5 years from the prosthetic loading were observed and measured. Implant and prosthetic success and survival rates were 100% after 8.1 years (mean) follow‐up period. No complications were reported except in one patient, where the repositioning of a retentive cap on the counter bar in the superstructure was necessary after 3 years from the prosthetic loading.ConclusionsThe present study suggests that the growth of the mandible near implant sites continues even after their positioning. Implants can be successfully placed and provide support for prosthetic rehabilitation in preteens patients with HED.
Free entry in mixed oligopoly leads to insufficient privatization?
Authors: Wang Leonard F. S. , Tomaru Yoshihiro , Zhou Chan 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThis paper investigates privatization policy in mixed oligopoly when partial privatization changes a technological difference between semi‐public and private firms. It shows that when the degree of privatization is partial, privatization is insufficient. Furthermore, privatization is more likely to be insufficient as the market becomes more competitive. If the cost efficiency gain is captured by decreasing the degree of privatization, privatization is insufficient regardless of whether entry by private firms is restricted or free.
Exploring the Ln–O bonding nature and charge characteristics in monazite in relation to microwave dielectric properties
Authors: Li Jian , Liu Jia , Zhang Yongcui , Sun Wei , Wang Yang , Wu Haitao , Li Ling , Cheng Chuanbing , Wang Yingying , Tan Ke , Liu Futian 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThe microstructure design is important for regulating the microwave dielectric properties of materials. However, in‐depth studies on the frequency temperature stability and related micromechanism remain poorly understood. The work investigates the correlation among the sintering behavior, crystal structure, bonding nature, and microwave dielectric properties of LnPO4 (Ln = Eu, Pr) ceramics by combining first‐principles calculations and experimental perspective. The high density (ρ > 97%) and large grains associated with lattice expansion benefit the optimum dielectric properties: εr = 11.24, Q×f = 61,138 GHz @ 13.311 GHz, and τf = −30.3 ppm/°C for EuPO4 sintered at 1500°C (εr = 11.35, Q×f = 63,496 GHz @ 13.042 GHz and τf = −39.5 ppm/°C for PrPO4 sintered at 1525°C). Bond valence analysis shows a rattling effect in [EuO9] due to a smaller ionic radius. The effect induces an abnormally large polarization, effectively shifting the negative τf toward near‐zero values. The electron localization functions, charge transfer, and bonding nature are discussed by density functional theory calculations, which illustrate stronger charge transfer and ionicity between Eu and O. This observation effectively predicts and validates the nonharmonic lattice vibrations and abnormally large polarization obtained from Raman spectrums and Rietveld refinement. These findings systematically clarify the optimized effect and micromechanism of lanthanides on the dielectric properties of monazite ceramics.
Accuracy of periodontitis diagnosis obtained using multiple molecular biomarkers in oral fluids: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Blanco‐Pintos T. , Regueira‐Iglesias A. , Seijo‐Porto I. , Balsa‐Castro C. , Castelo‐Baz P. , Nibali L. , Tomás I. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractAimTo determine the accuracy of biomarker combinations in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and saliva through meta‐analysis to diagnose periodontitis in systemically healthy subjects.MethodsStudies on combining two or more biomarkers providing a binary classification table, sensitivity/specificity values or group sizes in subjects diagnosed with periodontitis were included. The search was performed in August 2022 through PUBMED, EMBASE, Cochrane, LILACS, SCOPUS and Web of Science. The methodological quality of the articles selected was evaluated using the QUADAS‐2 checklist. Hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic modelling was employed to perform the meta‐analyses (CRD42020175021).ResultsTwenty‐one combinations in GCF and 47 in saliva were evaluated. Meta‐analyses were possible for six salivary combinations (median sensitivity/specificity values): IL‐6 with MMP‐8 (86.2%/80.5%); IL‐1β with IL‐6 (83.0%/83.7%); IL‐1β with MMP‐8 (82.7%/80.8%); MIP‐1α with MMP‐8 (71.0%/75.6%); IL‐1β, IL‐6 and MMP‐8 (81.8%/84.3%); and IL‐1β, IL‐6, MIP‐1α and MMP‐8 (76.6%/79.7%).ConclusionsTwo‐biomarker combinations in oral fluids show high diagnostic accuracy for periodontitis, which is not substantially improved by incorporating more biomarkers. In saliva, the dual combinations of IL‐1β, IL‐6 and MMP‐8 have an excellent ability to detect periodontitis and a good capacity to detect non‐periodontitis. Because of the limited number of biomarker combinations evaluated, further research is required to corroborate these observations.
High‐ and intermediate‐risk susceptibility variants in melanoma families from the Mediterranean area: A multicentre cohort from the MelaNostrum Consortium
Authors: Pellegrini C. , Cardelli L. , Ghiorzo P. , Pastorino L. , Potrony M. , García‐Casado Z. , Elefanti L. , Stefanaki I. , Mastrangelo M. , Necozione S. , Aguilera P. , Rodríguez‐Hernández A. , Di Nardo L. , Rocco T. , Del Regno L. , Badenas C. , Carrera C. , Malvehy J. , Requena C. , Bañuls J. , Stratigos A. J. , Peris K. , Menin C. , Calista D. , Nagore E. , Puig S. , Landi M. T. , Fargnoli MC. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundMost of large epidemiological studies on melanoma susceptibility have been conducted on fair skinned individuals (US, Australia and Northern Europe), while Southern European populations, characterized by high UV exposure and dark‐skinned individuals, are underrepresented.ObjectivesWe report a comprehensive pooled analysis of established high‐ and intermediate‐penetrance genetic variants and clinical characteristics of Mediterranean melanoma families from the MelaNostrum Consortium.MethodsPooled epidemiological, clinical and genetic (CDKN2A, CDK4, ACD, BAP1, POT1, TERT, and TERF2IP and MC1R genes) retrospective data of melanoma families, collected within the MelaNostrum Consortium in Greece, Italy and Spain, were analysed. Univariate methods and multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association of variants with characteristics of families and of affected and unaffected family members. Subgroup analysis was performed for each country.ResultsWe included 839 families (1365 affected members and 2123 unaffected individuals). Pathogenic/likely pathogenic CDKN2A variants were identified in 13.8% of families. The strongest predictors of melanoma were ≥2 multiple primary melanoma cases (OR 8.1; 95% CI 3.3–19.7), >3 affected members (OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.3–5.2) and occurrence of pancreatic cancer (OR 4.8; 95% CI 2.4–9.4) in the family (AUC 0.76, 95% CI 0.71–0.82). We observed low frequency variants in POT1 (3.8%), TERF2IP (2.5%), ACD (0.8%) and BAP1 (0.3%). MC1R common variants (≥2 variants and ≥2 RHC variants) were associated with melanoma risk (OR 1.4; 95% CI 1.0–2.0 and OR 4.3; 95% CI 1.2–14.6, respectively).ConclusionsVariants in known high‐penetrance genes explain nearly 20% of melanoma familial aggregation in Mediterranean areas. CDKN2A melanoma predictors were identified with potential clinical relevance for cancer risk assessment.
Patient‐reported experiences and satisfaction with head and neck surgery outreach clinics in regional New South Wales, Australia: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Venchiarutti Rebecca L. , Sharman Ashleigh R. , Dawson Tania , Elliott Michael S. , Clark Jonathan R. , Palme Carsten E. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractRationaleHead and neck surgery services are increasingly being centralised in Australia. Outreach models can overcome burdens of travel that patients in regional and rural areas experience when attending routine appointments, by providing services closer to home.AimTo explore patient‐reported experiences and satisfaction with regional outreach services for head and neck surgery in Australia.MethodsPatients who attended two regional outreach clinics in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, were surveyed over a 6‐month period. Patients completed the Outpatient Cancer Clinics Survey (2020 version) that explored perceptions and experiences of the clinic. Patients with cancer were asked to complete the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System and the Communication and Attitudinal Self‐Efficacy scale. Descriptive statistics and analysis of data was performed, and results were compared to the NSW statewide Outpatient Cancer Clinics Survey (2020). Content analysis of free text responses was performed.ResultsSome 128 patients responded (56% response rate; mean age 67.2 years, 46.1% female). Compared to the 2020 NSW survey, a higher proportion of patients in our cohort responded positively to 14 of the 26 questions, with the greatest differences observed for questions regarding waiting area comfort (+12.1%, p = 0.008), being informed about different treatment options (+9.5%, p = 0.04), and issues relating to parking (+9.5%, p = 0.03). A lower proportion of our sample responded positively to the question about whether health professionals knew enough about their medical history (−19.3%, p < 0.001). Respondents appreciated having a local clinic that helped them avoid travel to major cities and associated expenses and highlighted benefits of expert consultation and timeliness of investigations. However, cost of appointments and level of reimbursements remain barriers for some patients.ConclusionsPatients had a high level of satisfaction with regional outreach clinics for head and neck surgery across most domains, indicating patients highly value this service.
Investigating flavor sensory properties of Zhenjiang aromatic vinegar and factors impacting perception using quantitative descriptive analysis and temporal dominance of sensations
Authors: Wang Li , Xiong Feng , Huang Xingyi , Yu Shanshan , Wang Yu , Ren Yi , Zhang Xiaorui , Chang Xianhui 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThe aim of this study was to make a sensory scientific and chemical characterization of flavor profiles of Zhenjiang aromatic vinegar (ZAV) from different grades, and to investigate their potential correlation for evaluating the effects of chemical components on sensory perception. The quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) was combined with temporal dominance of sensations (TDS) to assess the sensory properties of different grades of ZAV. The grades of ZAV were best differentiated by pungent (p < .001), almond (p < .001), burnt (p < .001), sour (p < .001), bitter (p < .001), and salty perception (p < .001). TDS showed ZAV of five grades differed in the combination of dominant sensory attributes. Both QDA and TDS differentiated the ZAV samples of different grades. Multiple factor analysis (MFA) of QDA, aroma, and physicochemical data showed these data set were well correlated, which contributed to the identification the chemical drivers of sensory attributes.Practical ApplicationsZhenjiang aromatic vinegar (ZAV) is a highly appreciated product all over the world due to its unique and pleasant flavor sensory properties. The combined use of QDA and TDS permitted the identification and quantitative description of flavor profiles for ZAV from different grades while providing additional information during the consumption of ZAV, which has proved to be more beneficial than each just on its own. In addition, the key flavor substances that influence the sensory attributes were found out by analyzing the variables correlations and product spaces though MFA, thus it is help to strengthen the flavor quality control in the ZAV products. Taken overall, this work provides a reference for the measurement of flavor profiles of ZAV related products and evaluation the internal chemical components affecting sensory attributes.