bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and Clinical Outcomes After Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation for Treating Articular Cartilage Defects: Systematic Review and Single-Arm Meta-analysis of Studies From 2001 to 2020
Authors: Wang Xueding , Ren Zhiyuan , Liu Yang , Ma Yongsheng , Huang Lingan , Song Wenjie , Lin Qitai , Zhang Zhipeng , Li Pengcui , Wei Xiaochun , Duan Wangping 
Published: September 2023

Background: Osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) treats symptomatic focal cartilage defects with satisfactory clinical results. Purpose: To comprehensively analyze the characteristics and clinical outcomes of OCA for treating articular cartilage defects. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: We searched Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Database, and Web of Science for studies published between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2020, on OCA for treating articular cartilage defects. Publication information, patient data, osteochondral allograft storage details, and clinical outcomes were extracted to conduct a comprehensive summative analysis. Results: In total, 105 studies involving 5952 patients were included. The annual reported number of patients treated with OCA increased from 69 in 2001 to 1065 in 2020, peaking at 1504 cases in 2018. Most studies (90.1%) were performed in the United States. The mean age at surgery was 34.2 years, and 60.8% of patients were male and had a mean body mass index of 26.7 kg/m2. The mean lesion area was 5.05 cm2, the mean follow-up duration was 54.39 months, the mean graft size was 6.85 cm2, and the number of grafts per patient was 54.7. The failure rate after OCA was 18.8%, and 83.1% of patients reported satisfactory results. Allograft survival rates at 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years were 94%, 87.9%, 80%, 73%, 55%, and 59.4%, respectively. OCA was mainly performed on the knee (88.9%). The most common diagnosis in the knee was osteochondritis dissecans (37.9%), and the most common defect location was the medial femoral condyle (52%). The most common concomitant procedures were high tibial osteotomy (28.4%) and meniscal allograft transplantation (24.7%). After OCA failure, 54.7% of patients underwent revision with primary total knee arthroplasty. Conclusion: The annual reported number of patients who underwent OCA showed a significant upward trend, especially from 2016 to 2020. Patients receiving OCA were predominantly young male adults with a high body mass index. OCA was more established for knee cartilage than an injury at other sites, and its best indication was osteochondritis dissecans. This analysis demonstrated satisfactory long-term postoperative outcomes.
The association of weather conditions with day-to-day variability in physical activity in patients with COPD
Authors: Blondeel Astrid , Hermans Fien , Breuls Sofie , Wuyts Marieke , De Maeyer Nikolaas , Verniest Thessa , Derom Eric , Van Calster Ben , Janssens Wim , Troosters Thierry , Demeyer Heleen 
Published: September 2023

BackgroundWhile patients with COPD often cite weather conditions as a reason for inactivity, little is known about the relationship between physical activity (PA) and weather conditions. The present study investigated the association of day-to-day weather changes on PA in patients with COPD and investigated patient characteristics related to being more or less influenced by weather conditions.MethodsIn this longitudinal analysis, device-based day-by-day step counts were objectively measured in COPD patients for up to 12 months. Daily meteorological data (temperature, precipitation, wind speed, hours of sunlight and daylight) were linked to the daily step count and individual and multivariable relationships were investigated using mixed-model effects. Individual R2was calculated for every subject to investigate the estimated influence of weather conditions on a patient level and its relationship with patient characteristics.ResultsWe included 50 patients with a mean±sdfollow-up time of 282±93 days, totalling 14 117 patient-days. Daily temperature showed a positive linear pattern up until an inflexion point, after which a negative association with increasing temperature was observed (p<0.0001). Sunshine and daylight time had a positive association with PA (p<0.0001). Precipitation and wind speed were negatively associated with PA (p<0.0001). The median per-patient R2for overall weather conditions was 0.08, ranging from 0.00 to 0.42. No strong associations between patient characteristics and per-patient R2were observed.ConclusionWeather conditions are partly associated with PA in patients with COPD, yet the overall explained variance of PA due to weather conditions is rather low and varied strongly between individuals.
Vitamin C may reduce troponin and CKMB levels after PCI and CABG: a meta-analysis
Authors: Rozemeijer Sander , Hemilä Harri , van Baaren Marlinde , de Man Angélique M.E. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Ischemia/reperfusion injury contributes to periprocedural myocardial injury (PMI) in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). PMI can be estimated by the elevation of troponin (Tn) and creatine kinase-MB (CKMB) plasma levels, and it is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. Vitamin C might have a beneficial effect on PMI by improving endothelial function, improving myocardial perfusion, and by reducing oxidative stress generated during/after reperfusion. In several small animal models of cardiac stress, vitamin C reduced the increase in Tn and CKMB levels. The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate whether vitamin C administration may have an effect on Tn and CKMB levels in patients undergoing PCI or CABG.

Methods
We searched PubMed, Cochrane, Embase and Scopus databases for controlled clinical trials reporting on Tn and CKMB levels in adult patients who underwent PCI or CABG and received vitamin C. As secondary outcomes we collected data on biomarkers of oxidative stress in the included trials. In our meta-analysis, we used the relative scale and estimated the effect as the ratio of means.

Results
We found seven controlled trials which included 872 patients. All included trials administered vitamin C intravenously, with a range from 1 to 16 g/day, and all initiated vitamin administration prior to the procedure. Vitamin C decreased peak Tn plasma levels in four trials on average by 43% (95% CI: 13 to 63%, p = 0.01) and peak CKMB plasma levels in five trials by 14% (95% CI: 8 to 21%, p < 0.001). Vitamin C also significantly decreased the biomarkers of oxidative stress.

Conclusions
Vitamin C may decrease cardiac enzyme levels in patients undergoing elective PCI or CABG. This may be explained partially by its antioxidant effects. Our findings encourage further research on vitamin C administration during cardiac procedures and in other clinical contexts that increase the level of cardiac enzymes. Future studies should search for an optimal dosing regimen, taking baseline and follow-up plasma vitamin C levels into account.
A single-center prospective study on pain alleviation during peroral upper endoscopy with an ultrathin endoscope
Authors: Aya Iwao , Ichijima Ryoji , Sugita Tomomi , Nakayama Masako , Takasu Ayaka , Ogura Kanako , Gotoda Takuji , Kogure Hirofumi 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
The efficacy of transnasal endoscopy using an ultrathin endoscope has been reported in several studies. However, few studies regarding peroral endoscopy with ultrathin endoscopes with high resolution have been reported. This study investigates the pain alleviation of peroral endoscopy with an ultrathin endoscope.

Methods
Patients with a history of peroral endoscopy using a conventional, normal-diameter scope with no sedation who underwent peroral esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) using a thin scope between April-July 2022 were included in this study. After the procedure, the patients completed a questionnaire evaluating pain during the examination and willingness to repeat the procedure. The physicians were surveyed regarding their level of satisfaction. The primary endpoint was patient satisfaction, which corresponded to the rate of patients who rated the thin endoscope as more comfortable or somewhat more comfortable than the previously-used, conventional endoscope.

Results
One hundred and forty-five patients were included in the analyses. Patient satisfaction was achieved in 86.2% (125/145) of patients. The median visual analog scale pain score was 3 (0–7) points in this study, which is significantly lower than the pain score after the previous endoscopy (5 (0–10) points; p < 0.001). In addition, 96% (24/25) of patients who underwent EGD by an expert and 95.8% (115/120) who underwent EGD by a non-expert were willing to repeat endoscopy using the thin scope (p = 0.69).

Conclusion
Peroral endoscopy using a thin scope reduces patient pain regardless of the endoscopist’s experience.
The long-term efficacy of tick-borne encephalitis vaccines available in Europe - a systematic review
Authors: Miazga Wojciech , Wnuk Katarzyna , Tatara Tomasz , Świtalski Jakub , Matera Adrian , Religioni Urszula , Gujski Mariusz 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Despite the availability of vaccination, TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) remains a global public health problem. Therefore, the aim of our study was to assess the long-term efficacy of vaccinations against tick-borne encephalitis using vaccines available on the European market.

Methods
The analysis was conducted on the results of a systematic review conducted in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. The search was performed in three databases, namely Medline (via PubMed), EMBASE (via Ovid), and the Cochrane Library database. The authors followed the PRISMA method and the selection of the articles was performed with two independent researchers.

Results
From a total of 199 citations, 9 studies were included in this review. According to the primary studies identified in the search, the efficacy of available anti-TBE vaccines ranges from 90.1% to 98.9%; however, in individuals above the age of 60, the protection wanes as early as one year after vaccination. Administration of a booster dose 3 years after completion of the basic vaccination schedule significantly extended the period of protection against TBE.

Conclusions
Anti-TBE vaccines available in Europe have a high level of efficacy. However, the level of protection against TBE is decreasing after vaccination. Therefore, in addition to the conventional schedule, booster vaccines should be administered every 5 years in individuals before the age of 60 and more frequently, e.g. every 3 years, in individuals aged 60 and beyond.
Risk factor analysis for adverse prognosis of the fetal ventricular septal defect (VSD)
Authors: Shan Wang , Yuanqing Xia , Jing Zhu , Xi Wu , Huifeng Guo , Yi Wu 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is the most common subtype of congenital heart disease. In the present study, we aimed to determine whether chromosome aberration was associated with the occurrence of VSD and evaluate the association of VSD size, location and chromosome aberration with adverse outcomes in the Chinese fetuses.

Methods
Fetuses with VSD and comprehensive follow-up data were included and evaluated retrospectively. Medical records were used to collect epidemiological data and foetal outcomes. For VSD fetuses, conventional karyotype and microarray analysis were conducted. After adjusting confounding factors by using multivariable logistic regression analyses, the association between chromosome variations and VSD occurrence was explored. The association between defect size, location and chromosome aberrations and adverse foetal outcomes was also investigated.

Results
Chromosome aberration was the risk factor for VSD occurrence, raising 6.5-fold chance of developing VSD. Chromosome aberration, peri-membranous site and large defect size of VSD were significant risk factors of adverse fetal outcome. Chromosome aberrations, including pathogenic copy number variations (CNVs) and variations of uncertain significance (VUS), were both risk factors, increasing the risk of the adverse fetal outcome by 55.9 times and 6.7 times, respectively. The peri-membranous site would increase 5.3-fold risk and defects larger than 5 mm would increase the 7.1-fold risk for poor fetal outcome.

Conclusions
The current investigation revealed that chromosomal abnormalities, large defects, and the peri-membranous site were all risk factors for poor fetal outcomes. Our study also indicated that chromosome aberration was one of risk factors for the VSD occurrence.
“We are not there yet”: perceptions, beliefs and experiences of healthcare professionals caring for women with pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain in Australia
Authors: Ceprnja Dragana , Chipchase Lucy , Liamputtong Pranee , Gupta Amitabh 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain (PPGP) is a common condition worldwide. Women report being unprepared about PPGP, and state they receive little recognition and support from healthcare professionals. Situated within the Common-Sense Model and Convergent Care Theory, this study sought to gain a conceptual understanding of the perceptions, beliefs and experiences of healthcare professionals who provide routine care for women with PPGP in Australia.

Methods
A qualitative research design, using individual, semi-structured interviews with purposive sampling of healthcare professionals (N=27) consisting of doctors (N=9), midwives (N=9) and physiotherapists (N=9). Most participants were female (22/27) with a range of professional experience. An interview guide consisting of open-ended questions was used with a flexible and responsive approach. Thematic analysis was performed where interview data were transcribed, coded, grouped into meaningful categories and then constructed into broad themes.

Results
Four themes were identified: 1. Identity and impact of PPGP; 2. What works well?; 3. What gets in the way?; and 4. Quality care: What is needed? Healthcare professionals recognised PPGP as a common and disabling condition, which created a large impact on a woman’s life during pregnancy. Stepped-level care, including education and physiotherapy intervention, was seen to be helpful and led to a positive prognosis. Barriers at patient, clinician and organisation levels were identified and led to consequences for women with PPGP not receiving the care they need.

Conclusion
This study elucidates important implications for health care delivery. Acknowledging that PPGP is a common condition causing difficulty for many women, healthcare professionals identified strong teamwork and greater clinical experience as important factors in being able to deliver appropriate healthcare. Whilst healthcare professionals reported being committed to caring for women during pregnancy, busy workloads, attitudes towards curability, and a lack of formal education were identified as barriers to care. The findings suggest timely access, clear referral pathways and an integrated approach are required for best care practice for women with PPGP. A greater emphasis on the need for multidisciplinary models of care during pregnancy is evident.
Sex steroid hormones and allergic diseases in children: a pilot birth cohort study in the Japan Environment and Children’s Study cohort
Authors: Miyaji Yumiko , Yamamoto-Hanada Kiwako , Yang Limin , Saito-Abe Mayako , Sato Miori , Mezawa Hidetoshi , Nishizato Minaho , Ochiai Masayuki , Ohga Shouichi , Oda Masako , Mitsubuchi Hiroshi , Shimono Masayuki , Suga Reiko , Mise Nathan , Sekiyama Makiko , Nakayama Shoji F. , Ohya Yukihiro ,   the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS)
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Numerous studies suggest that sex steroids might play a role in sex disparity observed in allergic diseases in adults. However, whether sex hormones influence allergic diseases in children remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to examine the association of sex steroid hormones with allergic disease in Japanese children.

Methods
The present cross-sectional study included 145 6-year-old children participating in a pilot birth cohort study in the Japan Environment and Children’s Study. Data on allergic diseases were obtained from questionnaires, and serum levels of sex steroid hormones and allergen-specific IgE were measured. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate the association of sex hormones with allergic diseases.

Results
After adjusted sex, amount of body fat at 6 years, parental history of allergic disease, and exposure to tobacco smoke, serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate level was significantly associated with reduced odds of any allergic disease (adjusted odds ratio, 0.58; 95% confidence interval, 0.36–0.93; P = 0.024) and serum follicle-stimulating hormone level was significantly associated with increased odds of any allergic disease (adjusted odds ratio, 2.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.01–4.11, P = 0.046). Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate level showed a significant association with number of allergic diseases.

Conclusions
The current study findings suggest that sex hormones may play an important role in the development of allergic diseases in prepubertal children.
Alterations of brainstem volume in patients with first-episode and recurrent major depressive disorder
Authors: Chen Yue , Jia Lili , Gao Weijia , Wu Congchong , Mu Qingli , Fang Zhe , Hu Shaohua , Huang Manli , Zhang Peng , Lu Shaojia 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prevalent mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes in a substantial proportion of patients. The number of previous episodes is one of the most crucial predictors of depression recurrence. However, the underlying neural mechanisms remain unclear. To date, there have been limited neuroimaging studies investigating morphological changes of the brainstem in patients with first-episode MDD (FMDD) and recurrent MDD (RMDD). This study aimed to examine volumetric changes of individual brainstem regions in relation to the number of previous episodes and disease duration.

Method
A total of 111 individuals including 36 FMDD, 25 RMDD, and 50 healthy controls (HCs) underwent T1-weighted structural magnetic resonance imaging scans. A Bayesian segmentation algorithm was used to analyze the volume of each brainstem region, including the medulla oblongata, pons, midbrain, and superior cerebellar peduncle (SCP), as well as the whole brainstem volume. Analyses of variance (ANOVA) were performed to obtain brain regions with significant differences among three groups and then post hoc tests were calculated for inter-group comparisons. Partial correlation analyses were further conducted to identify associations between regional volumes and clinical features.

Results
The ANOVA revealed significant brainstem volumetric differences among three groups in the pons, midbrain, SCP, and the whole brainstem (F = 3.996 ~ 5.886, adjusted p = 0.015 ~ 0.028). As compared with HCs, both groups of MDD patients showed decreased volumes in the pons as well as the entire brainstem (p = 0.002 ~ 0.034), however, only the FMDD group demonstrated a significantly reduced volume in the midbrain (p = 0.003). Specifically, the RMDD group exhibited significantly decreased SCP volume when comparing to both FMDD (p = 0.021) group and HCs (p = 0.008). Correlation analyses revealed that the SCP volumes were negatively associated with the number of depressive episodes (r=-0.36, p < 0.01) and illness duration (r=-0.28, p = 0.035) in patients with MDD.

Conclusion
The present findings provided evidence of decreased brainstem volume involving in the pathophysiology of MDD, particularly, volumetric reduction in the SCP might represent a neurobiological marker for RMDD. Further research is needed to confirm our observations and deepen our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying depression recurrence.
Adoption of community-based strategies for sustainable vector control and prevention
Authors: Rivera Elizabeth Pellecer , Arrivillaga Margarita Rivera , Juárez José G. , De Urioste-Stone Sandra M. , Berganza Elsa , Pennington Pamela Marie 
Published: September 2023

AbstractCommunity engagement strategies provide tools for sustainable vector-borne disease control. A previous cluster randomized control trial engaged nine intervention communities in seven participatory activities to promote management of the domestic and peri-domestic environment to reduce risk factors for vector-borne Chagas disease. This study aims to assess the adoption of this innovative community-based strategy, which included chickens’ management, indoor cleaning practices, and domestic rodent infestation control, using concepts from the Diffusion of Innovations Theory. We used questionnaires and semi-structured interviews to understand perceptions of knowledge gained, intervention adoption level, innovation attributes, and limiting or facilitating factors for adoption. The analysis process focused on five innovation attributes proposed by the Diffusion of Innovations Theory: relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability. Rodent management was highly adopted by participants, as it had a relative advantage regarding the use of poison and was compatible with local practices. The higher complexity was reduced by offering several types of trapping systems and having practical workshops allowed trialability. Observability was limited because the traps were indoors, but information and traps were shared with neighbors. Chicken management was not as widely adopted due to the higher complexity of the method, and lower compatibility with local practices. Using the concepts proposed by the Diffusion of Innovations Theory helped us to identify the enablers and constraints in the implementation of the Chagas vector control strategy. Based on this experience, community engagement and intersectoral collaboration improve the acceptance and adoption of novel and integrated strategies to improve the prevention and control of neglected diseases.